October 30, 2008

New Model: Absolute 43

One of the most prolific builders in recent times Absolute, continues to surprise us with new innovative models. The next news from the Italian Piacenza builder is the 43, a much expected new model replacing the very sea worthy 45, recalled by many among the most seaworthy Absolutes ever built. The new 43 sits nicely in the range between the 47 introduced last year and the newly launched similar 40 model and continues the theme of the builder, offering full weather hard top boats with a sunshine attitude, that means a sun lounger aft with tender garage underneath. Interior layout is modern offering 2 well sized en-suite double cabins, with owners cabin forward and 2 single berths aft. The saloon offers a c-shaped settee with galley opposite. As all recent Absolute the new 43 is powered by IPS 500 or optional 600 versions. It is a fact now that Absolute, having 5 models powered by IPS is among the most knowledgeable when it comes to the innovative pod propulsion introduced by Volvo a few years ago. Now the question comes automatic, with the 47 among the fastest IPS boats in the market, it will be curious to see if the lighter and smaller 43 manages to beat the record of over 40 knots the bigger Absolute has achieved. Surely the challenge is there as Volvo IPS is designed for minus 40 knots top speeds, but the lighter displacement of the 43 makes me say we are for a new number.
Technical Data:
LOA - 13.55 m (44.4ft)
Length - 12.70 m
Beam - 4.14 m
Fuel Capacity - 2 x 475 l
Water Capacity - 250 l
Max Persons - 12
Accommodation - 4 + 2
Engines - 2 x Volvo IPS500 370hp, IPS600 435hp
Propulsion - Volvo IPS forward facing pod drive
Design: Absolute Research and Development Lab
Certificaion - CE B

Project: Ferretti 631

The new Ferretti 631 is an evolution of the 630, a model that was the pioneer of the on board space revolution thanks to the introduction of the astern galley. The main variations for this new model are exterior: the radar arch now an aileron similar to the one introduced on the 510 and 592 models, the spherical glass now enlarged but also featuring a sharper design, larger vertical portholes in the VIP cabin and last the extending of the flybridge area. As one can note here the theme of the 631 versus the 630 is of a more aggressive exterior profile while keeping with the elegance and comfort that have made the 630 such a unique and successful yacht in its category.

October 29, 2008

New Model: Tiara 3900 Open

The new Tiara 3900 Open artfully blends the pleasure of cruising and the passion of fishing, while staying true to the versatile Open design that is a Tiara Yachts legacy. Nowhere is this blend more successfully accomplished than the aft cockpit and its mezzanine seating. Innovative for a boat this size, the aft-facing mezzanine seat sight level is perfect for the cruiser and ideal for the fisherman eyeing bait. Below the new Tiara impresses thanks to its unique centre line panel hatch skylight, that runs the full length of the fore deck, flooding the accommodation deck with natural light. The layout is full of comfort, with the luxurious master stateroom to fore featuring a private head access, a U-shaped dinette that converts to a double berth with the back folding for a single pull man berth and to port we have the tucked galley located behind the entertainment center. Twin Cummins QSC of 550 and 600 hp power the 3900 Open giving speeds of 33 knots, and cruising of 30 knots with a range of 385 miles at an economical 26 knots cruising.
Technical Data:
LOA - 12.77 m (41.1ft) with pulpit
Length - 11.96 m
Beam - 4.57 m
Draft - 1.06 m
Weight - 11,113 kg dry
Fuel Capacity - 2025 l
Water Capacity - 454 l
Accommodation - 5 berths
Engines - Cummins QSC 2 x 550hp, QSC 600hp
Hull Shape - vee with 18 degrees deadrise aft
Performance - top speed 33 knots, cruise 30 knots with 600hp Cummins
Range - 385 nautical miles at 26 knots economical cruising speed

Project: Solare 22 Mt Navetta, Solare 68 Navetta Semidislocante, Solare 60 Navetta Semidislocante, Solare 58 Navetta Semidislocante, Solare 51 Lobster

A load of projects from Italian builder Solare, four of them introducing the new Navetta ship like yacht line. The first is the 22 mt Navetta, a new 72 feet ship explorer like motor yacht. Little information is so far available on this Solare flagship project, what we know is that the design is entrusted to architect Antonello Lucio Pontevolpe, who is responsible for all the new Navetta range by Solare. Another option apparently is that the same model is available in bigger 24 metre length model. From my part I would say that this is an interesting novelty as it seems a nice cross over between a motor yacht and an explorer yacht. Another interesting feature is the exterior design which seems taking a lot from the Italian trawler boat, especially to what regards the upper super structure looks. Another design entrusted to Antonello Lucio Pontevolpe as it is for all the new Solare Navetta line. The 68 is a semi displacement explorer yacht with a spacious three cabin three head interior. Submitted standard plans show also an interestingly innovative main deck with a bar upon entrance, spacious lounge saloon and a dining area forward. The galley is located on the lower deck, having next to it the the single crew cabin. Standing in the middle of the Navetta line will be the 60, also as the bigger 68 featuring a semi displacement hull. Accommodation layout is a 3 cabin 2 head interior, with a crew cabin aft. The main deck features a saloon with an Italian layout with a c-shaped settee saloon upon entrance, a a dining table for eight, opposite is the galley and forward we have the interior helm station. The flybridge is also a spacious affair being filled with settees and sun loungers for maximum Al fresco entertainment. The 58 Navetta Semidislocante features a similar layout to the 60, but all in a bit smaller sizes. The lower accommodation deck features the same 3 cabins, 2 head layout with an aft crew cabin and also the main deck and flybridge are similar to the 60. The main difference being the length which for the 60, having an extra two feet, which gains mostly in the aft main deck. Apart from introducing a new range of trawler influenced explorer yachts, Solare continues to upgrade its range of traditional cruisers and yachts with the introduction of the new 51 Lobster. Here we have the concept of Solare, which has always been an upper classic traditional super structure, and more modern hull lines with a deep vee fast hull below. The 51 Lobster will be available in two interior options, a standard 3 cabin 2 head layout and an optional 2 cabin 2 head layout, but in this later option offering a full beam owners cabin.

October 28, 2008

New Model: Performance 1307

The new Performance 1307 offers similar comfort and elegance as the bigger 1407 model, however in a somewhat slightly smaller size. Regarding sportsmanship, fun handling and fast off-shore behaviour, it stands its sister in nothing. On the opposite, thanks to the less total weight, even better performances are possible with the same engines. Inside accommodation is for 4 berths in 2 cabins, plus the additional extra 2 berths in the convertible saloon. 1307 is available with a variety of twin and triple engine options: five petrol Mercruiser and five diesel engines from Mercruiser, Volvo and Yanmar make the extensive engine choice list. A particular racing only version with triple 670 hp Mercruiser is definitely the faster of the lot. In addition the new 1307, as the picture above shows you is the first Performance model to be available with hardtop.
Technical Data:
LOA - 13.2 m (43ft)
Beam - 3.40 m
Draft - 0.95 m
Displacement - 8.100 kg
Fuel Capacity - 1300 l
Water Capacity - 230 l
Max Persons - 12
Accommodation - 4 + 2
Engines - diesel options listed
Mercruiser QSD4.2ES 320 x2, x3
Volvo D6- EVC 370hp DPR x2, x3
Yanmar 6LPA-STZP x2, x3
Propulsion - Mercruiser Bravo Stern Drive, Volvo Stern Drive, ZF M2 Drive 2 speed
Certification - CE B

October 27, 2008

New Model: Jeanneau 50 Prestige

The new Jeanneau 50 Prestige is the next step for the French builder, in its line of high end cruisers and yachts. Italian designer Garroni continues his theme in this new model with a classic style and contemporary details, this new 50 Prestige perfectly illustrates current trends in this sector, and builds on the success this line of the French builder has enjoyed since its introduction a few years ago. The 50 Prestige follows in the previous models extremely comfortable interior layout, in this case among the most spacious in its size category featuring a rare 3 cabins, 3 private head and shower compartments. In all this you still have the much sought full beam owners cabin, all this in fifteen metres of length. A surprising interior volume, also on the main deck with distinct saloon, dining areas, but also the well-appointed flybridge does not disappoint. The 50 Prestige was a much expected model from Jeanneau and this range of well refined models, and continues to build on its success adding to it a very competitive attractive price.
Technical Data:
LOA - 15.36 m (50.3ft)
Hull Length - 14.98 m
Beam - 4.36 m
Draft - 1.15 m
Displacement - 14.450 kg
Fuel Capacity - 1650 l
Water Capacity - 640 l
Max Persons - 12
Accommodation - 7 berths in 3 cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D9 575 hp
Project - Garroni, Jeanneau Design
Category - CE B

Propulsion: Steyr Motors Hybrid

The first serialized hybrid propulsion power system that can be installed on all engines and drive combination. The environmental friendly hybrid solution marks a new chapter in the history of pleasure boat power. It not only assures zero emission and low speed manoeuvring in harbours, noiseless drive on inland waters and natural reserves, but also eliminated the need for a separate generator units for other on board equipment. The zero emission electric drive mode allows a speed of 5 knots using solely electric propulsion and switches to the combustion engine with an easy turn of the ignition key. The ingenious propulsion then gets boosted by the electric drive and enables quicker acceleration, lowering fuel consumption, improving response and dynamics. Significantly reduced maintenance costs and improved ease of service are further irrevocable arguments that Steyr motors is introducing a serious technological innovation. The Steyr Motors Hybrid has a power of 7 kw at 48 Volts, charging at 56 Volts and weighs 75 kg excluding battery pack, with a length of 100 mm.

October 26, 2008

New Model: Azimut 95

The Azimut 95 Flybridge, is born and built in Viareggio. In its almost 30 meters of length and over 175 m² of space devoted to life at sea the Azimut 95 sets new standards of Italian made elegance. Everything contributes to the immediate sensation of pleasure that one experiences stepping on board: the refinement of its immense spaces, the natural light that floods its interiors, the luxuriousness and elegance of its details. Dynamism and lightness are the dominant characteristics of the 95 external lines, made supple and sinuous by the hull windows and the three big scenic windows on either side of the deck house that give a perfectly diffused luminosity. Azimut’s latest creation has been designed according to criteria of rationality in the use of spaces, shapes that blend with the style, exceptional simplicity of operation, and maximum intimacy for owner and guests. The large flybridge, the largest in the category, the covered cockpit and the generous forward spaces are transformed into cozy "lofts" on the water. Attention to the concept of space is particularly expressed by the flybridge, a real "agora" on the sea, a multi–faceted place for meeting, socializing and having fun. The spacious main deck is rationally subdivided by fine cherry furniture between the large saloon and the dining area. A panoramic view of the sea is provided by the three central windows of the deckhouse, with the middle one descending to the level of the washboard. The wheelhouse area and the galley are also accessible from the outside, ensuring maximum independence between crew activities and the on board life of owner and guests. The lower deck presents four spacious cabins: the master stateroom is remarkable for its spaciousness and luxuriousness, featuring a double bath, Jacuzzi and shower, while an exceptional VIP stateroom offers a 45° bed and new large windows and the two guest cabins have twin beds. Once again the genius of Stefano Righini’s concept and the originality of Carlo Galeazzi have produced a new, innovative Azimut Yachts model: a privileged, exclusive place to live the sea en plain air.
Technical Data:
LOA - 29.87 m (98ft)
Hull Length - 29.4 m
Beam - 6.85 m
Draft - 1.86 m (full load and includes props)
Displacement - 105 t at full load
Fuel Capacity - 12.000 l
Water Capacity - 1.800 l
Accommodation - 8 berths in 4 cabins, 6 heads
Engines - 2 x Caterpillar C32 Acert 12v 1825hp
Speed - 26.5 knots max, 23 knots cruising
Design - Stegan Righini exterior, Carlo Galeazzi interior
Hull - vee shape with 9.6 degrees deadrise aft
Material - GRP

October 25, 2008

Class 1 - Victory One Two in Egypt

Championship leaders, Victory 1, took a giant step towards retaining the team’s World title after leading home a dream one-two finish in today’s Egyptian Grand Prix after seeing all three of their main title rivals falter, with Negotiator capping an impressive return to top-flight racing, finishing third.
For Victory 1, today’s win, the team’s fourth of the season, moves them 15 points clear of team-mates Victory 7, and puts Al Marri within sight of his second world crown and Bin Hendi his first, but more importantly puts them 35 points clear of their Qatari rivals, with just two races remaining and with only 40 points on offer.
With rough conditions anticipated, race officials decided to run a revised course and reduced the race distance to 70Nm, and the message from Victory Team’s general manager, Gianfranco Venturelli, before the race to both his crews was to bring the boats home in one piece. And, after seeing the pole-sitters Qatar 96 lead from the flag and then open up a comfortable lead, the Victory 1 crew looked to have settled for second place. The bonus came on lap 13 when the leaders hit trouble and slowed. Victory 1 swept into the lead, going on to take a comfortable win by over two minutes.
For the Qatar team their day went from bad to very bad. With Qater 96 limping around the course to salvage valuable points, team-mates in Qatar 95, who were running comfortably in third place suddenly stopped a lap later, handing second place to Victory 7.
Negotiator held off a race-long challenge from Foresti & Suardi to take third place, which marked an impressive return to racing for Chris Parsonage, who has sat out the last four races, and capped an impressive Class 1 debut for throttleman, Billy Moore.
Foresti & Suardi 8 maintained it's impressive record for reliability producing their best result of the season getting an important fourth place.
Disappointment for the Spirit of Spain 88 crew, retiring on lap12, while Class 1 newcomer Mohammed Abdelkader Ahmed, marked his debut with four points in eighth place in Roscioli Hotels Roma 60. There was also disappointment for SeveneleveN 18 who retired on lap five and Jotun’s 90 hopes of a hat-trick win ended on lap three.
Class 1 now heads to Dubai for the final two races, with Victory 1 on target to win the World, Middle East and the Edox Pole Position Championships.
EGYPTIAN GRAND PRIX - result
1. Victory 1 - M Al Marri (UAE) / N Bin Hendi (UAE) – 00.51.03,17
2. Victory 7 - A Al Mehairbi (UAE) / JM Sanchez (France) + 02.08,29
3. Negotiator 50 - C Parsonage (England) / W Moore (USA) + 1 lap
4. Foresti & Suardi 8 - K Selmer (Norway) / G Montavoci (Italy) + 1 lap
5. Qatar 96 - H Al-Thani (Qatar) / S Curtis (England) + 4 laps
6. Qatar 95 - A Al-Sulaiti (Qatar) / M Nicolini (Italy) + 6 laps
7. Roscioli Hotels Roma 60 - M A Ahmed (Spain) / A Al Suwaidi (UAE) + 7 laps
Spirit of Spain 88 - S Carrasco (Spain) / G Carpitella (Italy) – dnf
SeveneleveN 18 - G Manuzzi (Italy) / N Giorgi (Italy) – dnf
Jotun 90 - IB Aarbakke (Norway) / J Tandberg (Norway) – dnf
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP - after round 6 of 8
1. Victory 1 – 105pts
2. Victory 7 – 90pts
3. Qatar 95 – 72pts
4. Qatar 96 – 71pts
5. Jotun 90 – 64pts
6. Foresti & Suardi 8 – 50pts
7. Spirit of Spain 88 – 19pts
8. Negotiator 50 – 16pts
9. SeveneleveN 18– 14pts
10= Qatar 9 – 4pts
10= Roscioli Hotels Roma 60 – 4pts
(Championship points include bonus points allocated to teams for running engines for two consecutive races - one point, per engine, per race)
MIDDLE EAST CHAMPIONSHIP - after round 2 of 4
1. Victory 1 – 40pts
2. Victory 7 – 27pts
3. Qatar 96 – 22pts
4= Foresti & Suardi 8 – 16pts
4= Negotiator 50 – 16pts
6. Qatar 95 – 14pts
7. SeveneleveN 18 – 5pts
8. Roscioli Hotels Roma 60 – 4pts

New Model: Princess 85 Motor Yacht

Princess presents the second model of there new Motor Yacht line, which was introduced last year with the launch of the 95 foot flagship. With this new model Princess deliver an entry level super yacht with exquisite comfort, luxury and a sleek modern crisp shape giving a resemblance with her bigger sister. The 85 Motor Yacht is suited for long medium range cruising, thanks to a deep V hull and the draft-reducing propeller tunnels, ensuring easy handling. The layout is a flexible one ensuring maximum enjoyment on deck, with a spacious teak-laid flybridge incorporating a fully equipped bar and generous seating and sunbed options. These are complemented perfectly by a separate entertaining and sunbathing area on the foredeck coach roof. The cockpit provides another area for Al fresco entertaining and opens up through triple sliding doors to the saloon. A separate dining table seats eight within a dedicated dining area amidships, while the saloon is fitted with a contemporary U-shaped seating area and an entertainment centre, incorporating an LCD TV with up and down movement stowing itself in the starboard sideboard. Adjoining the wheelhouse, the galley is equipped to the highest standards with granite surfaces and generous refrigeration, as well as ample storage space and access to the port side deck. The crew have starboard deck access from the lower helm. Below decks, the accent remains on light and space with the master stateroom featuring vast vertical port lights, as well as a sumptuous pocket sprung bed. Owners can choose between a three or four cabin layout, all with en-suite facilities. Crew quarters are located aft of the machinery space allowing separation from the main guest owner accommodation.
Technical Data:
LOA - 25.93 m (85.1ft)
Length - 25.6 m
Beam - 6.3 m
Draft - 1.65 m
Displacement - 70 t with Caterpillar C32 Engines
Fuel Capacity - 8400 l
Water Capacity - 1500 l
Engines - 2 x Cats C32 1675hp, C32A 1825hp, MTU 12V2000M93 1800hp
Speed - 32 knots max with Catperillar C32A