January 14, 2009

New Model: Bertram 540

Bertram Yacht remains at the forefront of nautical design, quality performance and innovation as it unveils its latest breakthrough model; the 540, a new yacht that will be sure to make a stir in the sport fishing industry. The impact of the classic Bertram 54 was distinctive in the marine industry in its time, becoming one of the most sought classic models over the years, with the new 540 the US builder aims to emulate the success of its renowned predecessor. The 540 introduces new innovative elements to a sport fish craft, resulting in a yacht that delivers ultimate steadfast performance and sea keeping ability of a fishing vessel combined with the luxury of a cruising yacht. Aside from incredible seaworthiness thanks to a complete new hull design, the 540 offers new attributes to enhance the cruising experience. Undoubtedly, the most striking new feature is the forward wrap around window that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and allows for an incredible amount of natural light to shine in the welcoming upper saloon. The yacht is also available with a lower helm station, something not seen much in pure sportfish yachts but also in a Bertram of this size. Bertram also says that the state of the art windows are made of multiple layers of glass and are tested and designed exclusively by parent company Ferretti group's Advanced Yacht Technologies, engineered to hold up to the roughest sport-fishing conditions and are actually reinforced directly into the fiberglass hull, contributing to the overall hull strength and design. The open view layout of the new 540 is radiant with white oak, providing an elegant richness and enhances the natural light that enters the salon. Another novelty is the galley area located astern, featuring a beautiful open bar area to facilitate movement between the salon and cockpit entry way, for a more open entertaining and dining experience which with the retractable aft cockpit window, makes for easy pass through of drinks and food between the cockpit and the galley. Many elements coming from the Ferretti Group Yachts where incorporated into the design of the new 540, enhancing the overall ease of use, providing the ultimate entertainment experience for all of those aboard making it a unique Sportfish Yacht in its size. Outfitted as an extreme fishing machine, the 540 is also streamlined with features that adhere to the needs of the true fisherman with maximized storage space: holding up to 25 fishing rods, additional tackle storage incorporation into the mezzanine along with a baitwell and freezer, transom fish box, and fish boxes on the cockpit floor placed on each side of the fighting chair for easier access from the transom door. With its universal appeal, the new 540 is proof of the steady commitment to excellence which push the standards of yacht building, and Sportfish boats alike while staying committed to the core principles and classic design of the historical image that the Bertram name owns.
Technical Data:
LOA - 17.4 m (57.1ft)
Hull Length - 16.5 m
Beam - 5.43 m
Displacement - 38 t
Fuel Capacity - 5769 l
Water Capacity - 850 l
Engines - 2 x MAN V12CR 1224hp, V12CR 1360hp, CAT C32 1676hp
Project - Zuccon International Project, Marty A.Lowe Interior

January 13, 2009

New Model: Rio 36 Art

The thinking is that for the eleven metre size we have seen all, and there is not much more to put in a sports cruiser having this dimension. I would say that Rio's 36 Art has some words to say about this, a new model from the long established North Italian builder who wants to regain its leadership position in this size. Presented for the first time at the Genoa Boat Show this new model expands the successful Art range from Rio, now offering five models of well refined and ultra comfortable sports cruisers. The 36 Art replaces Rio long standing 35 Cruiser, not only for its sporty, and aggressive lines, but most of all for its ultra spacious interior and innovative free spaces exterior cockpit. The interior is where the 36 Art outshines all boats of its size, thanks to the full beam owners cabin. Something rare in a forty feet plus boat but common thinking would say impossible for a 36 footer! It really leaves only the size, the only similarity to the competition, thanks to the minimal laid two stateroom en-suite interior, but also the free space approach of the cockpit. The only small negative in the 36 Art is the small 120 litres water tank, which I hope Rio upgrades, for the rest this a top class Sport Cruiser in its size, which really puts some new space thinking.
Technical Data:
LOA - 11.14 m (36.5ft)
Beam - 3.65 m
Draft - 0.64 m
Weight - 6690 kg
Fuel Capacity - 780 l
Water Capacity - 120 l
Max Persons - twelve 
Accommodation - four berths in two cabins plus two 
Engines - Mercruiser 4.2ES 270hp, 4.2ES 320hp
Propulsion - Bravo III dual prop stern drive
Speed - 37 knots max, 26 knots cruising
Range - 317 nautical miles, 12.2 hours

January 12, 2009

Project: Nord West 370 SportsTop

Nord West presents the project of the 370 SportsTop, a hard top version for the newly launched medium sized 11 metre 370 Sport, presented during the Scandinavia show. The main difference between the two models, is the adding of an all weather hard top for this soon to be launched new version of the 370, adding a real complete package to the already superlative features which already makes this a bit of a special model in its size. None the less this new 370 SportsTop keeps the features of the Sport version, like the rare to find IPS or stern drive option, a welcoming luxurious 2 cabin 4 berth interior with an additional extra 2 berths in the convertible saloon, and the cockpit which is practical for the thinking to enjoy this area when it is the warm climate, but with the good looking hard top becomes usable in all weather being it sun or rain.

New Model: Sea Ray 43 / 475 Sundancer

Sea Ray's new 43 / 475 Sundancer is destined to be an instant classic, this is what this renowned US builder declared on its launch. Surely this is a quality design from the US, and it's packed from stem to stern with winning features and innovations, including Zeus 360° Control pod drives with an intuitive helm joystick for stress-free docking. There is also the hard top, with two independently retractable sunroofs, offering the ultimate in full weather navigation, all around protection and outside climate control. Inside the 43 Sundancer is a luxury affair, with a bright roomy saloon and galley opposite welcoming you into the cherry wood finished cabin area. Worth noting too, is the spaciousness of the galley that has a full suite of appliances plus amazing work and storage space. Sleeping is in two luxurious en-suite cabins, with owners stateroom forward, and a guest twin bed mid cabin, which if desired converts to a double. This luxurious new 43/475 Sundancer takes also so much from the outside lines of the 55/575 Sundancer, which was launched 2 years ago, with a practical modern approach to boating thanks to the Zeus pods, but also the fully enclosed hard top which makes this express cruiser, good for all season usage. The only thing that confuses me is the change of model name for the European market from 43 to 475 Sundancer, for the rest this seems a great boat in its size which apart the interesting technical innovations, should also get a lot of attention for the space it delivers on the cockpit deck.
Technical Data:
LOA - 14.4 m (47.4ft)
Beam - 4.27 m
Draft - 1.07 m
Fuel Capacity - 1325 l
Water Capacity - 378 l
Engines - 2 x Cummins Mercruiser QSB425 420hp, QSB480 480hp
Propulsion - Zeus Pod Drives
Hull - vee shape with 19 degrees deadrise
Certification - NMMA, USCG, ABYC Standards

January 10, 2009

New Model: Fashion 85

Fashion Yachts presents its new 85, a WOW factor super sport yacht thanks to the color and the aggressive lines. Inside the new Fashion 85 features a classic 4 cabin layout, with mid ship full beam owners cabin, VIP cabin to fore and 2 double single cabins in between. For hull number one, furnishings is a trendy wine Bordeaux leathers and opaque maple woods. The hardtop is one of the innovations of the 85, finished in carbon which becomes transparent or totally dark thanks to the push of a button and the special glass used. The aft deck is also another innovative area compared to other Sport Yachts of similar sizes, which thanks to the chaise lounges, and settees used this can transform as one sees fit, from an open space plan to one full of settees similar to what is found in much bigger boats. Propulsion wise the Fashion 85 is powered by twin MAN 1500hp, propelled by SDS5 surface drives, giving a top speed of 39 knots with a medium load. Fashion 85 continues the trend of this builder to present high quality looking sports yachts, with what could have been more look alike to the nice 55 and 68 models, which do offer a unique exterior image versus the competition.
Technical Data:
LOA - 23.90 m (78.4ft)
Length - 22.97 m
Beam - 5.50 m
Draft - 1.20 m
Fuel Capacity - 5500 l
Water Capacity - 1500 l
Accommodation - 8 berths in 4 cabins, crew cabin berths aft
Engines - 2 x MAN 1500hp
Propulsion - SDS5 Surface Drives
Speed - 38 knots max, 35 knots cruising
Range - 400 nautical miles at 26 knots
Certification - CE

Project: Baglietto 44 Metre

A 44-metre high performance planing yacht, that’s the new project model from Baglietto designed by renowned architect Francesco Paszkowski. The innovative yacht is the basis for another new model, the 34-metre Carbon. As well as the shaping lines of the third in the 44-metre series, Francesco Paszkowski Design also handled the interior layout, with five cabins on the upper deck, a large salon with separate dining room on the main deck. The owner selected a light oak interior combined with exquisite leather furnishings. The eye-catching wheelhouse, roofed entirely in glass, reminds of the sport look from the Baglietto open series. Built at the Baglietto boatyard in Varazze, the launch of this 44-metre yacht is due in 2009.

January 9, 2009

Engine: John Deere PowerTech 6090SFM75 500hp

John Deere Power Systems is pleased to announce its newest marine engine, the PowerTech 6090SFM75 marine diesel engine. The PowerTech 6090SFM75 is the newest addition to the John Deere marine engines lineup and boasts up to 500 hp. The new PowerTech 6090SFM75 has 9.0L of displacement and offers up to 373 kW (500 hp). The 6090SFM75 is a six-cylinder, electronically controlled, turbocharged and air-to-sea water after cooled marine engine with side or front service locations. And with high torque at low-rated speeds, customers will enjoy excellent vessel control and maneuvering.

New Model: Maritimo A60 Aegean Flybridge

Australia’s Maritimo, renowned manufacturer of long-range luxury motor yachts, has just launched the first of its Aegean range, the Aegean 60. Essentially, the A60 as it is referred to is the 60 Sports Cabriolet with a beautifully-styled open flying bridge added to its superstructure. Access to the flybridge is via an internal staircase on the starboard side just aft of the lower of the two helm stations. If you love outdoor entertaining, there is certainly plenty of room for that aboard the A60 with the open flybridge providing a comfortable area to enjoy views and sunshine. Down below, the expansive cockpit has more than enough room for al fresco dining, and boating gourmets will love the aft galley which provides all the luxuries of home and more. Galley is also equipped with an ample fridge freezer, plenty of storage, a cocktail cabinet and even a dishwasher for easy clean-ups. Elsewhere, the A60 boasts all the luxury, safety, comfort and performance of the C60. An impressive saloon, four staterooms, including a full-width master with superb en-suite and walk-in wardrobe, all add to the A60’s undeniable appeal. When it’s time to go ashore, the cockpit sole elevates and the transom drops at the push of a button to reveal a garage big enough to store a 3.5 metre tender, which conveniently slides in and out. A not much used solution this one on flybridge boats. Moving into the engine room we find that it’s the same impressive setup as that aboard the C60, full-height headroom, big-boat systems, and dual C12 Caterpillar diesels each delivering 715hp which provide a 30 knots top speed and 25 knot cruising performance.
Technical Data:
LOA - 18.8m (61.7ft)
Beam - 5.3 m
Draft - 1.4 m
Weight - 27 t
Fuel Capacity - 5600 l
Water Capacity - 800 l
Accommodation - 8 berths in 4 cabins
Engines - 2 x Caterpillar C12 715hp
Speed - 25 knots cruising, 30 knots max

January 8, 2009

Projects: Viking 42 Open, Viking 42 Convertible

For 44 years Viking has devoted itself to building competitive sportfishing boats, so even in hazy economic times such as we are experiencing today, Viking refuses to rest on its laurels. While it has been a tradition at Viking to introduce new models on a regular basis, for each boat that is launched, there are others waiting in the wings of it's design department’s drawing boards. Rather than adjusting to market trends, the forward thinking philosophy that drives Viking provides a backlog of future models. Two such models whose time may have arrived are the new entry level to Viking's exquisite range of Sportfish boats, the 42 Convertible and the Viking 42 Open, which are candidates for launching in this 2009 year. While these new project models share the same length and hull, they are as unique as day and night. The above Viking 42 Open, appears to be the ideal day boat with rakish good looks, but frankly the US builder declares it is much more of a cruiser with timeless lines. The standard layout features a forward stateroom, twin berths beneath the command deck, a full head and shower, a compact galley to starboard and a dinette to port. Also available is an alternative layout with accommodations for four in two private staterooms along with two heads, each with a fiberglass shower stall. The berths tucked in beneath the command bridge boost the sleeping capacity to six. This space becomes available due to use of Volvo IPS drives, a significant departure from other Vikings. As you would expect from Viking, the cockpit has a tournament pedigree and the command bridge includes three pedestal helm seats, along with plenty of lounge seating and ample creature comforts. The project of Viking 42 Convertible is another incredibly well proportioned Sportfish Cruiser, with its nearly 16 feet of beam it allows three staterooms and two heads below with room and comfort to spare. Likewise in the deckhouse, every available inch has been put to good use with a comfortable sofa, a dinette and a practical galley. The cockpit sports Viking’s signature observation mezzanine - something rare on this size, while the flying bridge exhibits every amenity found on its larger siblings, albeit in a scaled down version. Initial specifications call for the Volvo IPS pod drive system. These two project models demonstrate Viking’s pulse on the emerging entry level market, and an extra more reason why Viking Yachts is considered one of the worldwide leaders in luxurious, high performance convertible yachts.

New Model: Ferretti 631

Ferretti 631 is the evolution of the model 630, a craft that has been the pioneer of the onboard space revolution thanks to the introduction of the astern galley. This new evolution of what have been a successful model for the Italian builder, differs from the 630 with the enlargement of the uninterrupted spherical glazed surface extending from stern to bow, sharper outstretched flying bridge, longer vertical view window in the VIP cabin forward, and the radar arch spoiler replaced by the central aileron, as found on the recent 510, 592 and 470 models. Internally, the craft offers the spacious 3 cabin and identical layout as the 630 equipped with the latest open-view windows and fine furnishings. Twin MAN engine options, of 1100hp or the 1224hp power the 631 with the more powerful options, giving cruising speeds of 30.5 knots and a max of 33,5 knots.
Technical Data:
LOA - 19.96 m (65.6ft)
Length Hull - 19.46 m
Waterline Length - 16.71 m
Beam - 5.53 m
Draft - 1.61 m
Displacement - 42.300 kg loaded, 36.400 kg empty
Fuel Capacity - 3700 l
Water Capacity - 990 l
Max Persons - 18
Engines - 2 x MAN V10CR 1100hp, V12CR 1224hp
Speed - 33 knots max, 30 knots cruising with MAN 1224hp
Project - Zuccon International, Ferretti Engineering
Certification - CE A