December 5, 2009

New Model: Sunseeker 88 Yacht

Sunseeker new 88 Yacht is a further development of the 86 Yacht presented in 2008. The new 88 Yacht increases crew accommodation aft, and offers more options in the four cabins below. For example you can choose to have two VIP cabins instead of the usual one, or an owner suite located to mid ships but in the fore part, or more to aft. Also recognizable by the cabin windows which are now integrated and more modern in there design, the 88 Yacht will be co-produced with the 86 for the coming 2010 season, before I think replacing it totally for 2011. Performance for the 88 Yacht with twin 1925hp diesel engines is a 30 knots top speed, and 23 knots cruise, this later giving a 350 nautical miles range.
Technical Data:
LOA - 26.88 m (88.2ft)
Waterline Length - 21.37 m
Beam - 6.41 m
Draft - 1.78 m
Displacement - 71.3 t full load
Fuel Capacity - 7500 l
Water Capacity - 1500 l
Accommodation - 8/10 berths in 4 cabins, 4 crew in 2 cabins
Engines - 2 x 1925hp
Propulsion - in line shafts in semi tunnels
Speed - 30 knots max, 23 knots cruise
Range - 350 nautical miles at cruise
Construction - hand laid GRP vinilester skin with powder mat, balsa core sides, PVC deck
Design - Sunseeker Design, Design Unlimited
Certification - CE

December 4, 2009

Improve-it = Bertram 410

Bertram Yacht’s improve its 410 by offering two new extra options which enhance the overall experience while out on the open water. Launched in 2007 the Zuccon designed US built Bertram 410 new options include a lower control station and new advanced forward window design. These full wrap around windows maximize visibility and brighten the interior of the salon, creating an open experience that is perfect for entertaining anytime on the main deck. The lower control station option gives also owners the opportunity to navigate from the comforts of the deluxe salon and benefit from unobstructed views of the open waters, especially when the weather above is not so good. First seen on the 540 in Fort Lauderdale 2008, and followed this year with the 511, the lower windshield design has been a much praised revolution in the new Bertram's, and now the Miami company raises the bar by adding it to its smallest entry level flybridge sportfish cruiser.

INBUILD ~ Galeon 340 Fly Part 2 of 4

We continue with part two of Galeon 340 Fly INBUILD. This new Galeon model after being presented as a project in October is set for its World wide launch coming January in Dusseldorf 2010. With the launching date being so close preparation in Poland for the 340 Fly is going full speed, to take the new model at one of the biggest global boat shows as polished and finalized as much as possible. While the prototype hull number one very rarely is a perfect hundred per cent, Galeon staff was explaining that for them to take a new model to a show a ninety out of hundred standard has to be achieved. Here as the picture shows Galeon glass people are preparing the super structure deck after this was released from the mold. As it can be seen by the masking tape we are observing the finishing touches for the non skid surfaces for the fore part of the deck. This part is usually the most used by the crew for securing the boat in the marina, or dropping anchor in some nice anchorage. While a designer normally sets the position of the non slip surfaces in the project, the yard will normally modify this, seeing fit how a crew behaves on deck, and if some areas tend to come out smaller then accepted, these are increased for major safety. The process of the non skid surfaces is normally seen on hull one, and after that the builder modifies the mold, in order to hurry up the process in the following builds.

December 3, 2009

Project: Ocean Yachts 64 Makaira

Makaira is the Latin name for the Marlin fish, and this is how New Jersey boat builder Ocean Yachts names its new innovative Sportfish Yacht to fill the void between its 58 and 73 Super Sport models. A void left empty since the stop production of the 62 Super Sport a couple of years ago. Ocean Yachts has been one of the most successful builders of Sportfish cruisers and yachts thanks to a luxury interior which also gives the ladies a consensus on the choice of there mates. Designed by Applied Concepts Unleashed from Florida renowned for there work with most custom Sportfish Yachts names, the 64 Makaira by Ocean Yachts creates a new brand and wants to hit revolution in this size offering speeds close to the 50 knot mark, light weight but strong construction to challenge the cold molding method, and a superior eight berth four stateroom accommodation. The 64 Makaira shows also a lower windshield design! Will it be real or not? If real Ocean Yachts will be the second major US builder to take this route, although it did not present a wrap around concept as Bertram did, but went for an integrated look. Construction for the 64 Makaira is also different to the other Ocean Yachts models building its new branded Sportfish in a vacuum infused fully cored hull with Corecell, featuring also an infused stringer system which gives the desired finishing and strength. Ocean Yachts say this method will guarantee strength, and a huge saving in weight over the competition. Hull number one is nearly completed so now I think its up to see the new Ocean Yachts 64 Makaira for real, with an official presentation most probably taking place at the Miami show in February.

New Model: Rio 46 Air

Rio presented the hardtop version of there 46 named Air in the Genoa boat show last October. A hard top sport cruiser based on the lines of the 46 Art presented in Naples Posillipo bay in Spring of last year, this also being a further refinement of the 44 model. This new 46 Air follows what we have seen on the Art with the use of Volvo IPS pod propulsion in lieu to traditional shafts, bigger full beam owners cabin with large view windows, and lastly a high low bathing platform adding an extra space for a water toy along the all ready existing garage space. Performance should be along similar numbers of what the open Art version with twin IPS600 engines at 435hp each reached, having a wide open throttle top speed of 38 knots, and a comfortable cruise at 30 knots.
Technical Data:
LOA - 13.9 m (45.6ft)
Beam - 4.05 m
Draft - 0.70 m ex props
Displacement - 11000 kg
Fuel Capacity - 900 l
Water Capacity - 430 l
Accommodation - 5 berths
Engines - 2 x Volvo IPS600 435hp
Propulsion - Volvo IPS forward looking pod drives with duo prop
Speed - 38 knots max, 30 knots cruising
Certification - CE B

December 2, 2009

Improve-it = Menorquin MY100

Menorquin presents a new additional Basic version of the baby of the range, the MY 100, which is on the market at a more affordable, more competitive price. To achieve this the boat’s standard equipment has been simplified whilst maintaining the same quality standards in the manufacturing process, the components and finishes of the boat. The MY100 new basic version is a fantastic option for those who want to start enjoying recreational sailing in a vessel with all the features which distinguish the Spanish island shipyard: classic, timeless style, high quality standards in the finishes and components, the stability and safe sailing provided by the semi-displacement hull and the extraordinary comfort and habitability seen in all this firm’s cruisers and yachts. With a sleeping capacity of four berths, plus two available as optional and up to 10 passengers on board, this model has a very intelligent design of the interior layout which is extremely spacious and comfortable, ideal for enjoying family life at sea, just as in the classic Menorquin Yacht 100.

New Model: Franchini 55 Emozione Open

Basing itself on the 55 Emozione, Franchini present the Open version of this successful model. This new Open represents the third 55 Emozione version, and fourth powerboat in the Franchini line up based on traditional lobster down east hull lines below, and a more Mediterranean Sport Yacht super structure above. There is light difference in the hull looks too, coming from the port holes featured on the ships side instead then on the coach roof as for the standard or fly 55 Emozione versions. The 55 Emozione Open represents a big change of the way to go on the sea, designed for use in the peak Summer season and with wind in your hair experience, as an Open should. The main cockpit deck offers an area of free open spaces added with central settee complimented by a central table dinette, a wet bar located in the centre of this area, and a helm station also located in the middle. Down below we have two cabins, saloon, galley and optional crew cabin. The two suites located to fore and mid ship have a similar size and both have well sized shower heads. Tender stowage is featured in a garage aft. Power is from twin MAN 800hp propelled with traditional reliable in line shafts, which give top speeds of 34 knots and a cruise of 30 knots.
Technical Data:
LOA - 17.15 m (56.2ft)
Hull Length - 16.35 m
Beam - 4.82 m
Draft - 1.15 m
Displacement - 19000 kg
Fuel Capacity - 2500 l
Water Capacity - 1000 l
Accommodation - 4 guest berths in 2 cabins, 1 crew cabin berth
Max Persons - 12
Engines - 2 x MAN 800hp
Propulsion - in line shaft
Speed - 34 knots max, 30 knots cruise
Range 350 nm at cruise
Construction - vacuum infusion Scrimp system
Certification - CE A

December 1, 2009

Project: Bavaria 38 Sport

German boat builder Bavaria will start the New Year with a bang, presenting the new 38 Sport in world premiere at Dusseldorf. The new 38 Sport will be an up-market middle class sport cruiser and will challenge the competition, with a design in cooperation with BMW Group DesignworksUSA, a subsidiary company from the renowned German auto maker. This is the third sport cruiser to be designed by BMW DesignworksUSA following 46 Deep Blue, and 28 Sport. The 38 Sport is based on the concept of the recently presented 28 Sport, launched in September 2009 and based on an evolutionary modern style, now synonymous for all new Bavaria without losing the touch to the brand´s heritage. Through the advancement of the Bavaria 37 Sport along with its Highline version, the 38 Sport is a yacht that opens new dimensions visually and of quality for feel and room concept. The spacious cockpit ensures real pleasure with a large seating area, sun and wellness lounges, an integrated wet bar and an additional sunbathing spot, at anchor or at sea. Below decks, the new 38 Sport offers better quality, functionality and comfort with ample headroom, two comfortable cabins as well as a generous bathroom including a separate shower. A modern ambiance where one feels at home immediately and the logical room divisions within an ergonomic design set standards. The 38 Sport will be presented as open version in January at the home for Bavaria German Dusseldorf show. A Hard-Top version will be following it, and will be available from spring 2010 with a newly developed roof concept.

New Model: American Custom Yachts ACY68 Traditional

American Custom Yachts recently conducted a successful sea trial of their newest latest launched custom sportfish yacht the 68 foot M/Y Silver Arrow. Featuring American Custom Yachts traditional outline and signature water-slicing hull, Silver Arrow is the first 68 footer and the first ACY vessel to carry the new MTU Series 2000, 2400hp engines. This one of a kind showpiece has been meticulously handcrafted by Fort Lauderdale ACY to meet the owner’s every need. Silver Arrow is loaded with thoughtful custom features, including hand-selected teak throughout the vessel and including all three staterooms and heads, marble counter tops in the galley and vanities, a motorized rod storage locker in the companionway, and an over sized custom refrigerator with freezer. An elaborate electronics package has been installed by IMS American Marine Electronics, including drop down TV’s in the staterooms, a pop-up TV in the salon, and a sophisticated navigation package complementing the eye catching custom tower and hard top by Bausch-American Towers. Final interior detailing is currently underway. Upon completion, American Custom Yachts will conduct additional sea trials to fine tune equipment and optimise the propellers.
Technical Data:
LOA - 20.87 m (68.6ft)
Waterline Length - 18.77 m
Beam - 5.94 m
Draft - 1.62 m
Displacement - 41730 kg full load
Fuel Capacity - 9842 l
Water Capacity - 870 l
Accommodation - 7 berths in 3 cabins
Engines - 2 x MTU 16v2000M92CR 2400hp
Propulsion - in line shaft with ZF gears
Speed - 45 knots max, 36 knots cruise
Design - ACY

World Wide Web

For the yachting industry the world wide web was indirectly responsible for its growth in recent years just much as easy credit, and James Bond action movies, and only porn, and online gaming might have joyed a bigger Internet help. As all good things but today there is another face to the coin and builders face a new challenge to perfection. A few years ago good marketing, a hard copy brochure, and perfect boat show stands was all it was needed to put yourself on the top. Yes! Most owners use there boats an average of one month a year and usually a crew, the marina, or the yard are responsible for the work and the pain the shiny plastic boat gives! As long as it is good and works, it is perfect.
Today but the World is changed and people before actually buying browse the net, check the forums and discuss this and that with a person they don't know. Yes he surely is talented that guy on forum X as he speaks a lot there and seems to use the strange nautical words as used in the marina. So I better believe what he says! While checking for information is good, I suggest if you are ever in doubt in your ability to put a surveyor on your bill in your boat purchase being it new or used, and to always take what is said on these forums with a pinch of salt. Like anything there is competition and a qualified Mr.X might be disgruntled how company A treated him in the recent past, and supporting better company B who is paying his bills at the moment. Another thing I would qualify as a scam is someone who says horror stories of a yacht brand without actually proofing it with a photograph, or a photo which shows just a bottom or piece of fiberglass.
The facts are that the Internet is a super resource of information, but like any news this has to proven down to facts not just words on a forum or website from someone with a fancy user name. If you think yacht A is the boat, but you hear bad stories get a surveyor to tell you the facts, and if he inspected some boats of the brand you are interested is also better. Remember also the saying: Good news travel but bad ones go faster then the speed of light. I would also add if someone wants to add traffic to his site I am sure it is easier with bad news then with good ones.