Monthly News - January 2009

-pic of the month - Mochi wins Motorboat of the Year

Absolute Wins Croatia Boat of the Year

The Absolute 43 from Italian shipyard Absolute has won the 2009 Croatian Boat of the Year award on behalf of online yachting magazine nauCAT. Now in its seventh year, the awards are judged by a panel of local and international boat builders whose boats are available on the Croatian market. The 13.6m (44ft) Absolute 43 also received the best motorboat award in the 42ft-44ft category.

Aicon Board Auditor Resigns

Aicon, the nautical Group from Messina which operates in the design, construction and marketing of luxury motorboats and yachts, listed on the Standard Segment of the Italian Stock Exchange communicate that the permanent board auditor and the vigilance committee member Giovanni Stella has effective immediately resigned from the roles due to the unexpected difficulties arising from reconciling the commitments of the position with his own personal professional activities.


Albemarle Boats Sold

Albemarle Boats brand part of Brunswick Corp was sold to a North Carolina businessman, according to a local newspaper. Scott McLaughlin, who owns several businesses around the state, including Cypress Cove Marina in Columbia, has purchased the boat company and its manufacturing facility for an undisclosed amount. McLaughlin told the news that it was an all-cash offer, but would not elaborate on the price. Albemarle Boats manufactures fishing boats from 24ft-41ft (7m-12m) from its facility in Edenton, North Carolina, and currently has 23 employees. McLaughlin says the factory has the capacity to build 100 boats per year. Albemarle was part of Brunswick's "Hatteras Collection" division, which is now comprised of the Hatteras and Cabo brands.

Azimut Benetti Group buys Brazil Intermarine

The Azimut-Benetti Group, first private company in the luxury nautical yacht construction, reinforces its position in South America. The company, owned by Paolo Vitelli, has agreed with the heirs of Gilberto Ranalho, owner of Intermarine recently dissapered after an incident, gor buy out of the Brazilian builder. Intermarine is the most important yacht builder in Brazil and controls 60% of boat sales in Brazil. In the nineties Intermarine made an agreement with Azimut for the production and selling of the Italian brand. It is with this agreement that in Brazil today there is a complete fleet of Azimut yachts from 29 to 80 feet. At the moment Intermarine employs 900 persons and has a production area of 20.000 square metres. The finalization of the agreement between Intermarine and Azimut-Benetti Group will happen after the legal authorization and procedure is completed, and does not require immediate cash payment but will be financed with the estimated profits Intermarine developing in the next 5 years.


Ferretti ZF Steercommand A Handling Revolution

Ferretti Yachts and Mochi Craft have chosen BOOT Duesseldorf 2009 as the setting for the presentation of the new, revolutionary ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti steering and manoeuvring system, developed by ZF Marine, a world leader in the production of marine propulsion systems, and customized for the Ferretti Group in close collaboration with AYT (Advanced Yacht Technology), the Ferretti group's naval design and research centre. SteerCommand technology is based on the "steer by wire" system, developed by the aviation industry to provide more precise route-keeping and allow on board weight to be cut. This was then adopted by top-end car manufacturers to control driving stability. In the nautical world it is a feature that appears on sizable yachts like Ferretti Yachts and Mochi Craft models, which can offer this technological innovation through the exceptional collaboration between AYT and ZF. ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti embodies the highest levels of technology at the service of the nautical industry, setting new standards in manoeuvrability and comfort in all sailing conditions. ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti, in fact, allows yachts to be sailed and manoeuvred in total safety at any speed. The servo-assisted movement of the two rudders and the ability to differentiate between the toe-in and toe-out rudder angles provides unprecedented manageability, involving: faster rudder response, tighter turning radius, maximum safety in any sea conditions, automatic back-to-zero steering wheel positioning, maximum smooth control with active feedback to the helm, easier manoeuvring when mooring, variation of angle between rudders as a function of boat speed. In order to increase comfort and handling stability even further, the ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti active feedback dynamically varies the turning resistance of the helm wheel according to the yacht's speed, while at lower speeds it makes steering smoother and easier, facilitating mooring operations. Steering comfort is further enhanced by ZF's innovative Joystick Manoeuvring System (JMS). The JMS provides electronic control of motors, stern and bow thrusters. An electronic control system allows the craft to be moved in any direction by moving the joystick. Approaching a quay, 360° on-the-spot rotation and other manoeuvres that are complicated to execute using the traditional control levers become extremely simple operations, as the electronic JMS system provides precise throttle control and smooth engagement of the drives. The innovative Joystick Maneuvering System (JMS) by ZF now also ensures outstandingly effective handling for shaft line yachts of any dimension, even in difficult sea and weather conditions. ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti will also limit considerably roll while turning, even at high speeds, through constant, independent management of the rudders, ensuring comfort and safety under way. The entire system is designed to withstand high workloads and has been tested to be safe, reliable and function without interruption, ensuring excellent performance even under the most adverse conditions. ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti will initially be installed on board of Ferretti Yachts (Ferretti 510, Ferretti 592, Ferretti 631) and Mochi Craft models (Long Range 23, Dolphin 54'). It is an exceptional innovation that reflects the philosophy of excellence shared by the two Ferretti group yards.


Hatteras Lays off Half of its Workforce

Hatteras Yachts said in a statement that it has restructured its operations in the face of one of the most difficult marine environments in decades. The company has cut 330 workers, just slightly more than half of its workforce. Hatteras Yachts chairman Bill Naumann, who was brought back from retirement to oversee the reorganisation, told the New Bern Sun Journal that the company is redesigning its business model. Hatteras previously employed about 1,400 people in New Bern and had a facility in Swansboro, North Carolina it closed down last January that employed 200 workers. In December, it sold its Albemarle facility in Edenton, North Carolina, to a North Carolina businessman. With the job cuts, the New Bern facility now has 295 to 300 workers. Meyer said he hopes to rehire most of the laid off workers when the industry rebounds. Naumann added that Hatteras would work more closely with its dealers to reduce current inventory levels. Part of the reorganisation was also a renewed focus on every aspect of design, R&D and manufacturing of the Hatteras yacht line.


Itama Lands in the US for Very 1st Time

Itama, the brand that has written the story of Italian open yachting, together with Allied Marine, its exclusive distributor for the United States, will be taking part in this important event for the very first time and celebrating its official launch on the American market. This momentous move demonstrates the widely acclaimed popularity of the Italian shipyard that since September 2008 has established its headquarters at the impressive Torre Annunziata Yacht Centre, a modern production area that covers an area of over 125,000m. The Miami Boat Show offers Itama an ideal opportunity for emphasizing the brand’s increasing internationalization and further highlighting the distinctive “Made in Italy” character of its boats. The agreement signed with Allied Marine also reinforces Itama’s penetration of the America market, thanks to the dealer’s wide-reaching distribution network and its numerous service points in Florida. Itama has therefore become a major ambassador of “Italian style” overseas, and has succeeded in placing at the forefront of this prestigious, international exhibition, one of the market’s most exciting innovations and the pride of its fleet, the new Itama SeventyFive. Distinctive contemporary style, traditional Italian craftsmanship, versatility, power, performance and design innovation all combine to make the Itama SeventyFive a real yachting gem. A spectacular achievement that has been made possible thanks to the company’s insistence on the most up-to-date technology and constant research into the latest style trends. Having enjoyed huge success and acclaim in Europe, the Itama SeventyFive is now poised to make its grand entry onto the American market, confident of its ability to win over a public that is particularly attentive to technological innovation, functionality, and space design focused on direct sea contact. On January 30, to underline the importance of its launch on the American market, the Itama flagship will also be the star of a prestigious event where guests can relive the story of the Itama brand in a highly elegant setting. Featuring a series of prestigious sponsors, including One Sotheby’s, Moleca providing premium carpirinha cocktails and catered by Maison D’ Azur, the event will take place at Capri South Beach, a boutique luxury condo property in Miami Beach. The focus of the event will be the unveiling and presentation of the Itama SeventyFive for Miami’s elite.


Jeanneau Wins Croatia Boat of the Year

Each year, the Croatian marine magazine, Naucat, organizes a competition for the title of "Croatian Boat of the Year". For the 7th year, a jury composed of marine professionals awarded the title once more to two new model, selected from among 62 models in competition! The Jeanneau 50 Prestige, a new model for 2009, was awarded the title, "Croatian Boat of the Year 2009," in Category 1: motor yachts of over 49 feet in length.


Maritimo Muster Invitation

Expressions of interest are invited from Maritimo owners to join the Great Southern Muster this April. In the past, we have Musters north to the beautiful waters of the Whitsundays. This time, we are running south on another adventure of a lifetime. The idea is to get boats from Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide (Queensland owners can join in Sydney) and run the Muster to Launceston, Tasmania. The Muster will be led by experienced skippers Greg Alward and Bass Strait expert Geoff “Hendo” Henderson who has some 40 years experience in the Southern waters. All boats will meet at Refuge Cove on Wilson’s Promontory and then travel on to Beauty Point at the mouth of the Tamar River in Northern Tasmania. We will overnight at Beauty Point and dine at the new yacht club beside the river before travelling the 40 kilometres up the Tamar to Launceston. After our stay at Launceston we will head back down the Tamar to again overnight at Beauty Point then head back out into Bass Strait and our next overnight stop at Flinders Island. Following our stay at Flinders, the Adelaide contingent will depart west and the Melbourne and Sydney boats will continue on toward Refuge Cove with (hopefully) a stopover at Deal Island, the largest island in the Kent Group. After our stopover at Deal we will head back to Refuge Cove and then on back to Sydney and Melbourne. The Melbourne boats can refuel at Port Welshpool if necessary and Sydney Boats will again head to Eden for refuel. The Great Southern Muster will certainly be an adventure and a great chance to test your boat, your seamanship and your navigation skills in some of the most spectacular and remote areas of Australia.


Marquis Yachts designed by Valentina Zannier

Marquis Yachts, builders of premium quality yachts 42' - 72' in length, will be showcasing a new 720 Motor Yacht designed by Nuvolari-Lenard's Valentina Zannier at the 2009 Miami International Boat Show. Valentina Zannier is a partner and lead designer with Nuvolari-Lenard Naval Architects of Venice, Italy. She developed her visionary design skills as a student of Italy's Artistic Liceum and as a graduate of the famous Architecture University of Venice. Ms. Zannier has directed the interior layout, design, and fine detailing of several recently built mega yachts developed by the Nuvolari-Lenard firm. Her yacht design expertise is evident throughout this new Marquis. The Marquis 720 Motor Yacht is fascinating and reflects Ms. Zannier's contemporary European design influence. Step into the yacht's spacious salon where open grained, select oak hardwood is used to create bulkheads and cabinets. This is a Marquis - so the attention to detail and craftsmanship is outstanding. The salon sole is Brazilian cherry and serves as a beautiful backdrop for the handmade Italian leather furnishings from Calia Italia. Illumination throughout the yacht is provided by a combination of fixtures designed and made by Cantalupi of Viareggio, Italy. Oak cabinetry is carried forward throughout the yacht's spacious galley which is richly surrounded by intricately flecked and veined granite flooring and countertops. A dining table for six is situated adjacent to the galley and features an inlaid icon of the Nuvolari-Lenard marquee, a prestigious symbol recognized by experienced yachtsmen throughout the world. Below decks the opulence of the Zannier design continues throughout the yacht's four private staterooms. The Master Stateroom is the owner's private domain. Oak cabinets, drawers and hanging lockers are not only expertly crafted and beautifully finished but also designed to be highly functional for live aboard convenience. Rubelli fabrics were imported from Venice to create the luxurious bed covers and pillows in all staterooms. Deep pile Ralph Lauren carpet is used throughout the lower deck. The Master Bath with marble floor and counter tops is a showcase for yacht finish quality. The spacious stall shower is surrounded by an artistic pattern of ceramic and dark Emperador marble tiles from Spain. Additional details include hand sewn leather appointments on the king sized bed pedestal and stainless steel inserts on the cabinet surrounds.

Mochi takes European Powerboat of the Year and Motor Boat of the Year

2009 once again proves to be a year of top-level awards and accolades for Mochi Craft, which triumphed in Düsseldorf at the European Powerboat of the Year. This prestigious event held by the Delius Klasing Verlag publishing group during BOOT Düsseldorf saw the Dolphin 54' Fly crowned winner in category of "Best yacht over 50 feet". This new accolade comes after recognition at London's prestigious "Motor Boat of the Year Awards 2009" in early January for the sun top version of the same model in the "Traditional and Retro" category, reflecting the excellent reception it has enjoyed in the British market.

Outer Reef Expand into Europe

Outer Reef Yachts, part of the American Global Yacht Group are pleased to announce their expansion into the European Yacht market. After a successful Dusseldorf show, where their class leading range of long distance semi displacement trawlers met with great approval and enthusiasm from not only experienced yachtsmen but press and trade alike, Outer Reef Yachts have appointed Mr Trevor White to head up the new Outer Reef Europe operations. Trevor White is also the Chairman of Ocean Nautic Limited, the well respected solus UK and Ireland distributors for Absolute Yachts, who coupled with their strong knowledge base of the Mediterranean and north European markets is a perfect match for Outer Reef who pride themselves on their exceptional customer service. Outer Reef Yacht builds premium quality semi displacement, semi custom built Raised Pilot House trawler style yachts from 58 through to 115 feet. Outer Reef Yachts clients cruise the world’s favoured oceans and waterways in absolute comfort and luxury. All vessels in the Outer Reef range are built under strict ISO 9001, CE and ABS rules obtaining CE open ocean category ‘A’.

Pershing New CEO

Paolo Favilla is the new CEO of Pershing SpA. Favilla replaces Fabio Fraternale, CEO of Itama SpA, who was named CEO of Apreamare SpA in November 2008. According to a company statement, the two appointments are part of the group's strategic growth plan for Apreamare and Itama, two of Ferretti's nine motoryacht brands. Favilla will work alongside Pershing founder and Chairman Tilli Antonelli, who will continue to deal directly with Pershing and Itama-branded products. Prior to joining Ferretti, Favilla was general manager of Grandi Navi Veloci and a board member of Grimaldi Holding SpA, favoring the entry of private equity funds into the group's capital. From 1999-2004 he held the role of CEO at private investment bank Banknord SpA, where he also served as partner.


Riviera Scoops Pool Tournament

Riviera boats swept all before them in a tightly contested Riviera Gold Coast Light Tackle Masters game fish tournament over the weekend, taking first and second places overall as well as the Champion Female Angler title. The tournament, held from the Marina Quays International at Hope Harbour on Queensland’s Gold Coast, ended on Sunday afternoon with three of the results relying on countback. Riviera 51 Enclosed Flybridge The Phantom was overall winner, beating Riviera’s own corporate boat, the 48 Offshore Express Fascination IV on a countback, tagging its marlin earlier. The Phantom, with her new owner Ian Walker, was Riviera’s previous corporate boat, Fascination II. Riviera awarded a special trophy to the Riviera team who scored the most tag-and-release points throughout the tournament. The trophy was won by the team on board The Phantom. Champion Male Angler went to Dane Rusmussen on board Legacy Gulfstream while Champion Female was won by Lorraine Golightly on board Fascination IV. According to Gold Coast Game Fish Club President Darren Malaquin, the number of juniors competing was particularly exciting for tournament organisers. More than 150 anglers aboard 38 boats ranging from six metres to 19 metres in length competed over the weekend for prizes valued at a total of $65,000. Boats come mainly from the Gold Coast but some anglers came from as far away as Melbourne and Townsville and New Zealand. The tournament was scheduled to run over three days - Friday, Saturday and Sunday - but Saturday was called off after the Bureau of Meteorology issued a Strong Wind Warning for the area. However, action on Friday and Sunday ensured a close finish across all categories of competition.


Sunseeker Moves into Aluminum Construction

In its on-going development program, Sunseeker International has officially announced the launch of its latest project. Codenamed "Zeus", the project is the company's proposed move into aluminium construction - a development that will allow them to build vessels in excess of 170 feet (52m). Following a number of requests from interested clients, a series of outline designs have been produced. The demand for larger, more individual designs combined with Sunseeker's unrivalled reputation for cutting-edge styling and higher levels of performance is a natural step for the company. This new development will mean changes to the construction processes currently employed in their very successful range of craft. New facilities are being planned to accommodate the one-off building processes required for such large vessels. The company is very well equipped to cater for the fit-out and finishing of these new superyachts having already gained worldwide acclaim for their Yacht range, which consists of luxury craft up to 150 feet (46m) with styling and interiors comparable to much larger vessels. The new Shipbuilding Division at Sunseeker will provide a fully integrated service of design, construction and project management. Each model will be totally unique, customised to the clients' individual requirements and built to appropriate classification depending on type and area of use.

New Model: Nordhavn 75 Expedition Yachtfisher

The new luxury Nordhavn Expedition Yachtfisher can take you there on her own bottom. At 75 feet, the Nordhavn EYF will present true offshore capability and the range needed to explore, experience, dive and fish the most productive fishing grounds in the most exotic places the world has to offer. All of this, plus the same comfort and security Nordhavn owners have become accustomed to. During the past 25 years, Nordhavn has earned a reputation for designing and building highly capable seaworthy power cruisers. True to its oceangoing pedigree, the EYF has a range of up to 4,000 miles and is equipped to be self-sustaining for extended stays in remote parts of the world. Built to the highest international standards and extensively outfitted with the finest equipment, the new Nordhavn 75 EYF was created for those with a passion to explore exotic fish and dive sites on their own luxurious yacht. While an increasing number of sport fishermen are having their boats shipped long distances by yacht transport companies or having to choose charter boats in order to fulfill their passion, the EYF will allow her owners unlimited adventure in safety and complete luxury. The 75 EYF is a twin-engine, full displacement yacht that carries 5,000 gallons of fuel and 600 gallons of water. It displaces 235,000 lbs. and is designed to cruise economically at 12.5 knots with a range of 1,850 nautical miles. At its maximum cruising speed of 13.5 knots, its estimated range is 1,237 nautical miles. Top speed is an estimated 14.3 knots.

Technical Data:

LOA - 22.86 m (75ft)

Waterline Length - 20.3 m

Beam - 6.80 m

Draft - 1.98 m

Displacement - 84,294 kg empty

Fuel - 16277 l

Water - 2271 l

Engines - 2 x Detroit Series60 740hp

Speed - 14 knots max, 13.5 knots cruising

Range - 3000 / 4000 nm @ reduced crusing speed

www.nordhavn.com

Project: Sea Ray 750

A project for a new flagship from renowned US boat builder Sea Ray, which present what is its biggest build at 75 feet, a flybridge Motor Yacht so far named 750. This is interesting news from Sea Ray showing in the renderings a European design influence in the forms, but most recognizable in the super structure. It will be available in a 2 version interior, both of them with a 4 cabin 4 head version and 2 berth crew cabin aft. The 2 version interior differs in the plans mostly in the main deck, but also in style difference and materials with 1 being modern minimal and 2 a classic conservative. Version 1 welcomes you with 2 settees on either side of the saloon, move more forward and you find an 8 person dining table in the middle. There is also a day head rare to find on this size on the main deck and a separate galley which is located just behind the dual seated helm station. Version 2 and its classic contemporary interior plan welcome you in a c-shaped settee, a spacious galley double to size of version 1, and an 8 person dining table to port of the starboard helm station. Sea Ray also offers an option for the aft area of the flybridge with the choice of an l-shaped settee or a water craft stowage area with crane. Other interesting feature is the 6056 litre fuel tank, quite big for a boat this size. Power is a standard twin MAN 1550hp or option 1800hp MAN. Hull number one is apparently already in construction stages although launching dates have not so far been announced.

www.searay.com

New Model: Cobalt 37

Cobalt Yachts presents the 37, now the second boat in the Cruiser and Yacht line, from the USA builder. The new 37 is very similar to the 46, both with classic lines flowing along bonded side windows extending the entire length of the hull, and as is its larger sister offering creature comforts of far larger boats, accented by Super Yacht standard custom cabinetry, making every best possible use of interior space. Case in point: the two full beds with conventional mattresses in lieu of the convertible cushions of a settee that other manufacturers term a midberth. A solid panel secludes the master stateroom, opening and airing the cabin. The overall efficiency and roominess of interior spaces arise in large part from Cobalt’s willingness to use multiple, complex molds in the fabrication of parts, leading to designs simply not possible to restricted simple, unimaginative molding. Designed and engineered to exacting specifications for open water performance and saltwater durability, the 37 has been built ready to take on the traffic in coastal waters and inland lakes alike. Where others are quick to speak of value-added engineering, a euphemism for the subtraction of the very best materials from a boat’s construction in an effort to keep costs down, Cobalt has beefed the 37’s design, calling for high technology in both materials and their application. The full-length stringer system has been reinforced with carbon fiber, laid up with vinylester resins, add to this a solid fiberglass Kevlar strengthened hull bottom with full ¾” thickness, and the structural bulkheads are of total composite construction and are vacuum-infused.
Technical Data:
LOA - 11.7 m (37.6ft)
Beam - 3.66 m

Draft - 1.06 m

Weight - 9598 kg dry

Fuel Capacity - 871 l

Water Capacity - 190 l

Engines - 2 x Mercruiser 496Mag 425hp Petrol, Volvo D6 370hp Diesel

Speed - 41 knots max, 24 knots cruising

Range - 182 nm @ cruise

Propulsion - Mercury Bravo 3 double propeller stern drive

Hull Shape - vee with 37 degrees forward entry and 18 degrees deadrise aft
Certification - ABYC Certified

www.cobaltboats.com

Boat Review: Azimut 58

Presentation

Azimut has been an innovative builder in motor yachts and cruisers in the last two decades, breaking the ice with revolutionary designs outside and setting new trends with innovative layout plans inside. So when the 58 of the called F for flybridge series was presented in the fall of 2007 there was much anticipation for this model, which will have a starting challenge replacing the 300 plus delivered 55 in the long term of the Italian builder plans. The 58 though has not been the expected revolution over the 55, but a general improvement in all parts starting with bigger engines, and going into detail on the improving accommodation with high selling point coming in the VIP fore cabin with its scissor transforming berth from double to a nice twin for two big adults, making this cabin a family or guests affair. Other improvements are the high low bathing platform, bigger flybridge, more spacious aft deck, opening vertical windows in the master cabin, and last the modified saloon now feeling larger and smarter.

Accommodation

The 55 which was presented in 2000 was always about the full beam owners cabin, making sure this model was delivered at 300 plus in an 8 years production span, a record in its size and time. The 58 offers a similar interior 3 cabin 2 head lower deck plan mirror improvement to the 55, but board the new Azimut and it does feel bigger and different. The theme is about modern minimal accents, with oak wood joinery and natural light coming from the large windows featured in all part of the yacht from the large shark fin windows in the saloon, to the rectangles in the VIP cabin and the three longitudinal windows in the owner cabin which also are a novelty here being able to open. Praised feature is the fore VIP cabin which with a scissor movement can go from a nice queen size double to twin single berths. Full beam owners cabin follows the traditional layout with a 45 degrees positioned berth, and a beauty desk opposite. There is also the twin guest cabin in between all this. If desired a single berth crew cabin with private head can be fitted as optional aft.

The welcoming main deck has a spacious c-shaped settee to port, step up two steps and you have the open space galley to port with opposite a 6 people dining area. Forward of this there is a a nice 2 person settee, just to the side of the central positioned helm station, very good for lounge entertainment during navigation trips with full views forward and to the side. This concept is again followed on the fly but this time more of a sun lounger. On the flybridge you also find a c-shaped settee, l-shaped wetbar and a free astern area, with Azimut's plan suggesting to put two free moving deck chairs for maximum sun worshipping. Performance
A tried and tested hull also derived from the 55, with a good balance of weight and navigational speed put into it. Azimut 58 hull is a variable geometry moderate vee with 15.5 degrees aft, with deeper sleeker forward sections. Running gear and propellers run in tunnels for reduced shaft angle and better efficiency. The twin MAN R6 800hp are the real difference here which give top speeds of 32 knots and a cruising of 28 knots. Not bad for a loaded weight of close to 29 tons, and what I would also call moderate power. For easy marina manoeuvring Azimut also offers a joystick which can spin the boat around with the help of a stern and bow thruster, a solution seen on the bigger boats from this Italian builder since 2003.
Positive
Forward VIP Cabin which from a double transforms to twin single berths
Passenger settee by both helm stations

Hi Low bathing platform
Negative
Small crew cabin aft
Competition
Criteria for competition was 17 metres and 3 cabins on what is a highly competitive size, with many builders offering a similar concept to the Azimut 58 F, that is of a full beam owners cabin. The others going to a more traditional layout of a forward owners cabin are the Ferretti 551 or the VZ 56 which surprisingly both come from Italy. Another surprise is how much this type of motor yacht with flybridge and 3 cabins is international today. with builders spanning from Europe with Italian British builders, to the middle East from Gulf Craft owned Majesty to Australia with Maritimo. The US offers are the feel big Hatteras and Canada built Neptunus, but there could be 3 more to this, but other American built flybridge don't offer lower helm.
Aicon 58 - full beam owners and 3 heads, much waited 56 replacement after 100+ sold
Ferretti 551 - classic layout fore owner 2 double cabins 3 heads, galley down
Hatteras 56 Motor Yacht - optional lower helm, third l-shaped cabin
Majesty 56 - 3 saloon settees, 3 heads and 2 berth crew cabin aft
Maritimo A55 Aegean Flybridge - four cabins but 4 bunk beds, astern galley, sports look
Neptunus 56 Flybridge - changing room, dining table to fore with nice surround views
Princess 58 - galley down give three settee saloon, double crew cabin aft available
Sunseeker 52 Manhattan - galley down, bunk 3rd cabin, sunlounger aft adds sport looks
Uniesse 58 My - three heads, galley up on saloon, renowned sea keeper
VZ 56 - classic layout forward owner cabin, 2 heads, on purpose designed hull
WILD CARD: Fairline 55 Squadron - 4 feet short, closest competitor in concept and style
Conclusion
Azimut has built the 58 around improving the 55, with new ideas introduced on the other models of the range: like hi-lo bathing platform for easy tender stowage, square shaped bow which allows better deck space but also gives more room below in the cabin, free usable space on the flybridge which looks coming from an 80 feet plus super yacht, and last but surely its higher selling point in the scissor moving double berth forward. All this while not really new on an Azimut looks still very fresh on the 58! The big billion $£ question now is whether the 58 will have the winning success the 55 enjoyed in its 8 plus years of production. First outing in Genoa Show 2007 showed good sales in favour for the 58, what is an exceptional result with much tighter competition now then in 2000.
Technical Data
LOA. 17.8 metres (58.8 ft)
Hull Length. 17.59 metres
Beam. 4.95 metres
Draft. 1.37 metres includes props @ full load
Displacement. 28.8t full load
Fuel Capacity. 2800 litres
Water Capacity. 630 litres
Accommodation. 6 berths in 3 cabins + optional crew cabin aft
Engines. 2 x MAN R6 800hp
Propulsion. Shaft Drive with propeller tunnels
Speed. max 32 knots, cruising 28 knots
Hull Shape. vee shape with 15.5 deg aft
Project. Stefano Righini exterior, Carlo Galeazzi interior

www.azimutyachts.com
Picture Copyright Azimut Yachts. Data Azimut Yachts.

New Model: Viking 46 Convertible

Close behind the new flagship Viking 82, here is the new Viking 46 Convertible on launch day. The second of four new models that Viking is introducing for 2009, the 46 Convertible features this US builder renowned unparalleled attention to excellence. With an all new running surface and prop pockets to reduce draft, the 46 Convertible shares numerous design, construction and performance elements of both the 2008 new models the heralded Viking 50 and 60 Convertibles, albeit in a slightly smaller envelope making it an ideal choice for the owner operator seeking 44 years of boat building expertise in a scaled down version of its tournament winning champions. The two-stateroom, two-head layout provides plenty of comfort and privacy and the 121 square-foot cockpit includes Viking’s signature observation mezzanine. Hull number one of this exciting new series is outfitted with a pair of the bigger MAN V10CRM 1100hp common rail diesel engine choice. Smaller twin 900hp MAN V8 are the standard engine choice. The new Viking 46 Convertible will make its worldwide premiere with 3 other new Viking's at the Miami Show in beginning February, with what look like a stunning display from this high quality boat builder.
Technical Data:
LOA - 14.30 m (46.9ft)
Beam - 5.03 m
Draft - 1.35 m
Weight - 24,548kg
Fuel Capacity - 3293 l
Water Capacity - 568 l
Engines - 2 x MAN V8 900hp, V10CRM 1100hp
Speed - 30 knots cruising with MAN V8 900hp estimated
Range - 350 nautical miles @ 30 knots cruising estimated

www.vikingyachts.com

New Model: Warren S120

After announcing it in 2006, Warren Yachts launch the much waited prologue to its S range, the S120, flagship of its Super Sport Yacht range now offering three models from 23 to 36 metres. Those with an appreciation and the determination to possess one-off quality and true custom fit and finish will find the four stateroom S120 to exceed all expectations. Exquisitely custom tailored to owner need and desire, the first of the series was recently launched with a second in final construction phases and scheduled to launch soon. The S120 can be configured with a variety of main deck layouts, stateroom and crew accommodations and styling preferences. Add available engine and drive options to satisfy the highest performance requirements and the S120 reaches a level of personal expression unavailable in the semi-production world. For twenty six years, Warren Yachts, a division of Shipworks Group, has been a premier builder of highly engineered, performance driven custom yachts and by remaining true to its custom heritage, this Aussie builder maintains a level of manufacturing and finishing perfection in their semi-custom Super Sport Yacht line that defines the company and provides the best in class option for those who seek the ultimate in the category.
Technical Data:
LOA - 36.5 m (120ft)
Length Waterline - 31.08 m
Beam - 7.31 m
Draft - 1.82 m
Fuel Capacity - 25.000 l
Water Capacity - 5000 l
Engines - 2 x MTU 16V2000 M93 2400hp
Propulsion - straight shafts
Speed - 26 knots max
Project - Peter Lowe
Certification - ABS Class

www.warrenyachts.com

Projects: Italian Yachts 27 Navetta, Italian Yachts 80 Jaguar Sport, Italian Yachts 70 Jaguar

Italian yachts is a company located in Genoa, Italy which comes from a successful period following the presentation of the Paolo Caliari designed 76 Jaguar a few years back. Now the company wants to pursue this good start with more continuation, presenting 3 upcoming project models, two following the line of the 76 Jaguar of Sport Yachts, and the one above the 27 Navetta going into a new environment and type of yachting for the builder. This project is the biggest offer from this builder, and is a three deck plus displacement superyacht, with a calculated top speed of 13 knots with twin 700hp engines. Interior is a 3 or 4 guest cabins in the lower deck, an owner cabin on the main deck, and 2 crew cabins forward with crew lobby and galley. Soon coming to the water is the evolution of the Italian Yachts 76 Jaguar created by the great Paolo Caliari, the 80 Jaguar Sport which is designed by a rising name of Italian yacht design, Roberto Angel. Design, engineering, sports lines, charm, instinct, rationality, power and comfort is the 80 Jaguar Sport perfect synthesis. This 25 metre Super Sport Yacht will offer a 4 cabin en-suite layout, with crew quarters and galley located midship. Power is by twin MTU 1800 HP each, which will enable maximum speeds of 42 knots. The new 70 Jaguar will be a step forward for this size and type of yacht, taking something from bigger boats in its aggressive exterior design, and from smaller ones on the hull shape. The exterior while offering modern looks offers a deep deck area on the fore part with a central circle sun lounger in the middle. This is unusual for a 21 metre sport yacht, and on the renderings looks good. It also gives the advantage of not having sunbathers obstructing the helm station views while underway. On the accommodation front the standard layout is a classic 3 cabins layout with owner cabin to fore, and saloon with opposing galley to midship. Hull shape innovation comes for the two stepped hull vee shape with a 21 degrees deadrise, this is common for a powerboat, but unusual for a 21 metre Sport Yacht. Performance will also be on the high side estimating top speeds of 45 knots with twin MTU 1500hp engines, but smaller 1200hp MTU will also give 42 knots max and cruising speeds of 34 knots.

www.italianyachts.it

New Model: Beneteau 47 Monte Carlo

The Beneteau 47 MonteCarlo, is the latest edition to the modern sport cruiser range from this World renowned boat builder. The 47 MonteCarlo is so far the biggest model in this range, and was fittingly launched during the Paris boat show in December, and named by the football star Bixente Lizarazu. At the end of a breathtaking on-screen presentation, designed to give the visitors crowds a virtual tour of the boat, and supported by a choreographed routine on a James Bond theme, the MonteCarlo 47 was revealed majestically to the eager eyes of the spellbound audience. Drawn by Italian designer Pierangelo Andréani and the Beneteau design team responsible for the hull shape, the MonteCarlo 47 is a luxury Express Cruiser in the purest Mediterranean style, offering a flexible interior. The lower accommodation can be ordered with a 2 stateroom, galley and saloon or option 2 with third 2 single berth cabin, taking the place of the L-shaped saloon settee on the standard version. Power is provided by twin Volvo IPS600 of 435hp each.
Technical Data:
LOA - 14.8 m (48.5ft)
Length Hull - 14.22 m
Beam - 4.33 m
Draft - 0.85 m
Displacement - 11600kg
Fuel Capacity - 2 x 650 l
Water Capacity - 2 x 320 l
Max Persons - 12
Engines - 2 x Volvo Penta IPS600 435hp
Propulsion - Volvo IPS forward facing duoprop pod drives
Project - P.Andreani, Beneteau Powerboats
Certification - CE B

www.beneteau.com

Ugly Bertram Delamination

How to start the new Out-News section here, then with a story which was much the talking in January of this year in the many boating forums in the US and later followed all around the virtual world wide web. This story involved a delamination to an only six months old 2008 Bertram 630 having about five hundred engine hours titled m/y Certifiable, which happened while cruising and fishing around Palm Beach on the twentieth January.  Certifiable made it on its own power to a boat yard in Stuart Fort Lauderdale.

This picture appeared first on the HullTruth forums but a nice review with a technical description to what might have happened is also given on David Pascoe Yacht Survey surveyor website.  After many talking that this might finish worse then it is, with everyone speculating on the matter Bertram gave good guarantees to the owner, and he has been replaced with a sportfish yacht to use for the moment and a new yacht currently in construction.  Bertram has also declared on Yacht Forums that this was a singular incident, and checks on other 630 have been made to guarantee this was a unique unhappy matter.  Needless to say while this was an ugly accident to a nice boat, Bertram showed it stands by its product and guarantees keeping an owner enjoying the water and happy.

The Bertram in this delamination incident is a 630 model as designed by Zuccon and produced since 2004.  The 630 came out as a replacement to the 60 model which was released in 1990.