October 30, 2012

Project: Horizon E73

Horizon from Taiwan is pleased to announce that a current owner of a 2001 E70, will become a second time client with a new E73 currently inbuild. This repeated client signed a contract for a new E73 that will be delivered in mid 2013 and will showcase at the Hong Kong Boat Show.  The new E73 will be an open flybridge design with four staterooms and one crew room, powered by twin CAT C32A 1600HP engines and also feature a hydraulic gangway. This client also went for a forward owners stateroom, and small crew cabin with lobby to aft. The E series, known before as the Horizon Elegance was the earliest offered by Horizon and is now the most popular series of the collection and offer a range from 56 to 94 feet with a European flair to the looks coming from Italian designer Tommaso Spadolini.

New Model: Garcia GT54

Presented in Cannes, the first motor boat from thirty years experienced North France alloy boat builder Garcia the GT54, has seen a lot of attention going towards it from the press and long range cruisers alike.  Fair to say Garcia brings a lot of nice features to its GT54 from the looks department which resemble those of a trawler boat from the future, to its customisable layout available with two, three or four cabins.  Just to make also things more exciting hull one displayed in Cannes of the GT54 also had a nice silver colored hull, and a minimal finished interior which are usually more associated with fast planning boats.  Many builders are trying to give the trawler explorer yachts young looks, and I think Garcia has pushed a couple of new buttons in this direction, which will be appreciated by the a less conservative crowd.  Still fair to say this is a custom project and it would not be surprising to see hull two full of classic features.
Technical Data:
LOA - 17.2 m (56.4ft)
Hull Length - 16.5 m
Waterline Length - 15.9 m
Beam - 4.9 m
Draft - 1.68 m
Displacement - 26 t dry, 32 t loaded
Fuel Capacity -  5200 l
Water Capacity - 540 l
Accommodation - 4 berths in 2, or 6 berths in 3 cabins, or 8 berths in 4 cabins
Engine - 1 x Cat 3056 188hp + Volvo 75hp Wing
Propulsion - line shaft with tailor made efficient propeller
Speed - 11 knots max, 8 knots cruise
Range - 4000 nm
Hull Type - displacement with long keel, and anti-roll strakes
Construction - aluminum
Project - Frank Darnet, Guy Saillard, Patrick le Quemont
Certification - CE A

October 29, 2012

Project: Prestige 450 S

As Prestige has done in its recent 500 and 550 releases, the concept is again followed in the 450 series where alongside the flybridge model, is released the S coupe version for the Express Line.  This model follows in all internal layout that of the flybridge sister, with a large sun-roof replacing the helm and extra entertainment area up top.  Inside is the much appreciated layout with the nice astern galley, and a separate entrance for the full beam owners midships suite taking prize of innovation in this size.  In the web site this model seems not to replace the 440 S at the moment, being the 450 S a more open type sport cruiser this decision does make sense, although I am sure that Prestige will wait for more market indications. Power is from twin Volvo 370 and 435hp engines with IPS pod propulsion with top speed of around 30 knots.

New Model: Jersey Cape 47 HTEX

Jersey Cape presens its new 47 Hard Top Express, the latest model in a line which features eight semi custom models from 31 to a 66 feet in project stages.  The Jersey attitude and Carolina flair is present again in this new 47, which is a marriage of modern style and untamed customization.  Like the much appreciated Devil 45, the 47 HTEX hull has prop pockets with very Carolina influenced bottom having a deep Vee entry and shallow degree stern. The 47 cockpit is full of sportfisherman amenities measuring 33 squared meters with a single transom length in-deck fishbox molds the hull shape that opens from either side. The oversized transom live well can also be set to receive crushed ice. The tackle center houses a freezer, refrigerated bait tray, drink box and compartmentalized drawers along with a cockpit sink and second storage locker all in a step up observation deck . The cockpit liner conceals gaffs, mops and deck brushes with a separate opening for shore power and water outlets. The enclosed bridge deck features the captains command center with a teak helm pod, single lever controls, a full array of electronics and instrumentation, and two accompanying companion chairs. Bridge deck seating for the whole crew with easy access stowage and teak decking are comfortable in a climate controlled environment. Engine room access is through the helm bridge deck.  Entering the cabin on the starboard side is a full head with solid surface vanity, head and enclosed separate shower with toiletries locker. Opposite to port is a U-shaped galley with double under counter refrigerators and freezers, built in microwave, complimenting countertops, dry storage and easy access to the ships lighted main electrical panel. Forward of the galley on the port side is a settee with rod storage in an drop down back rest. On the starboard side is a pocket door to the over/under bunk room complete with reading lamps and storage. The private forward stateroom has been fitted with crossover V-bunks with storage, double hanging lockers, lighting, night stand style storage drawers, an oversized deck hatch and blackout shade. Custom interior layouts are available.  Power is from twin 900 or 1000hp engines.
Tech Data:
LOA - 14.32 m (47ft)
Beam - 4.87 m
Draft - 1.04 m
Displacement -
Fuel Capacity - 3217 l
Water Capacity - 416 l
Engine - 2 x MAN 900hp, 1000hp
Propulsion - line shafts in prop pockets
Hull Shape - deep Vee entry with shallow stern and prop pockets

October 28, 2012

Project: Princess 88 Motor Yacht

Princess present the project of the new 88 Motor Yacht a model which will replace the 85 of the same series.  This new upcoming pocket super yacht Princess brings on the style of the lines which was introduced with the 62 a few years back into larger sizes.  Princess seem to have pushed this style a lot in recent years especially in the smaller models, although now the attention seems to be moving on the larger sizes.  The 88 should in my books share a lot of the bottom from the 85 having the same beam, but in the looks department this is a completely new model especially outside and the downward shear line to mid is a nice distinctive feature.  Down below of the 88 Motor Yacht Princess keep its known conservative approach with the appreciated layout of four double guest cabins, full beam midships owners stateroom, with a crew quarters and lobby sleeping four to aft. The main deck also follows a traditional layout with a welcoming saloon dining area, and a seperate galley and helm to fore.  The flybridge of the 88 seems to be more spacious then ever, altough the settee to foredeck seems to be smaller to that of the 85 but gaining two stowage areas to the side.  Power options are MTU 1822hp, or Cats 1825 and 1925hp engines.  Top speed is 30 knots with the large Cat choice.  

October 27, 2012

Atlantis New Web Site

Atlantis the entry Sport Cruiser and Yacht brand of the Azimut Benetti Group presents its new web showroom.  Altantis started its journey in the fall of 2002 with the 42, first model of the range presented at the Genoa Show of 2002.  Azimut-Benetti Group will buy Gobbi in the fall of 2001, the buy-out is made to copy Gobbi's assembly line production method and to offer an entry line of sport cruiser from ten to fifteen meters.  Gobbi was founded in 1960 by Angelo Gobbi and had in its forty years of history produced boats from three to fifteen meters in size, with its largest model the 50 Fly introduced in 1988 and produced till 91. Since 2010 Atlantis has renewed all the range now designed fully by NeoDesign of Biaggi and Salvetti.  This new direction was started in 2010 with the launch of the 48, and has concluded this year with launch of the new entry level 34, fifth model made by the new project studio and replaces all the previous models which where for the most part Gobbi designed extensions.  Atlantis current range features six models from 34 to the 58 flagship, and the trend setting day cabin boat 36 Verve. 
Since 2013 and the closing of the Soriano di Gropparello facility in Piacenza, Atlantis has become a line of Azimut rather then a separate brand. With this Atlantis line is now featured in the Azimut website.
Production History:
345 SC 2000-07 *Gobbi rebranded as Atlantis in 2007
315 SC 2000-08 *Gobbi rebranded as Atlantis in 2007
425 SC 2000-09 *Gobbi rebranded as Atlantis in 2007
42 2003-09  Stefano Righini design
47 2003-09
55 2004-09
39 2006-09
47 HT 2007-09
35 2007-10
50 2007-08
54 2008-11
42 HT 2008-09
425 SC HT 2008-09
35 Plus 2008-11
54 2008-12
50x4 2008-10 *project 48
40 2009-12
36 Verve 2009-
48 2010-12  Biaggi and Salvetti Neo design
44 2010-14
58 2011-14
38 2012-14
34 2012-15 
Atlantis becomes a line of Azimut with the 50 introduced in 2013 

October 26, 2012

New Model: Sea Ray 355 Sundancer

Sea Ray presents a new 355 Sundancer which apart the fully integrated hard top is a revolution from the US builder from a certain point of view as it features a very European thinking in its design, especially inside having two fully enclosed cabins.  A rare occurance in many US boats under fifty feet, nearly impossible in sub forty sizes.  None the less the Sea Ray 355 Sundancer will also be biult in Poland, and it will be interesting to see if the US builder will produce a sister version for its home market with a more open layout.  Other nice features in this new Sea Ray is also the aft deck cockpit also very influenced by European design having a single floor deck, C-shaped settee, and large wet bar galley to port under the hard top.  Power choice are Mercruise Diesel engines from 260 up to 350hp, with stern drive propulsion.
Technical Data:
LOA - 11.2 m (36.7ft)
Beam 3.48 m
Draft - 1.09 m incl drives
Displacement - 6,900 kg dry
Fuel Capacity - 2 x 380 l
Water Capacity 150 l
Accommodation - 4 + 2 berths
Engines - 2 x Mercruiser 5.0 MPi DTi 260hp, 350 Mag 300hp, T-350 TDI 350hp
Propulsion - Mercruiser Bravo III dual propeller stern drive
Hull Type - deep Vee 21 degrees deadrise 

Propulsion: Voith Inline Propulsor

The initial idea was to develop a propulsion system with minimum vibration and noise emissions. The result is a rim driven propeller powered by a permanent-magnetic electric motor. The thruster system requires neither axle nor shaft or gearing. VIPs impress by their prompt steering and can also be retrofitted as propulsion systems or thrusters. If required, the propeller blades can be replaced individually. That is fascinating technology lending itself to a wide variety of applications. Voith Inline Propellers are used as propulsion systems for passenger boats, barges and large yachts. The Voith Inline Propulsor systems are driven by an integrated permanent magnetic synchronous ring motor.  The motor windings are housed in the stator, the permanent magnets are housed in the rotor. The rotor is supported by water-lubricated bearings for the radial and axial load. The propeller blades made from Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Plastic are directly connected to the inner ring of the rotor, which eliminates the need for a central shaft or gearbox. The sense of rotation, as well as the speed, is controlled by frequency converters. Thruster housings are pressure-tested to verify water tightness and are filled with resin to encapsulate all electric parts and permanent magnets.  The Voith Inline Propulsor is available in nine units from 67 up to 2010hp.

October 25, 2012

New Model: Fairline 60 Squadron

Fairline presents the new 60 Squadron, a further evolution of the 55 model presented in 2008, which became a 58 in 2011.   This model must have been one of the most evolutionized Fairline ever.  Nontheless the new 60 Squadron now measuring 63 feet over all, has some important changes which occur in the transom area.  That is a big new extended bathing platform, increased aft deck space, and a passarelle which can be ordered to be telescopic and invisible when not in use.  This last a feature not much to be found in yachts of this size, and with a high low bathing platform choice.  Inside Fairline keeps its very much appreciated layout of the very welcoming and comfortable split level main deck, and a lower cabin area having one of the most spacious full beam owners room in the category.  Power is from twin Volvo 800 or 900hp engines.  Speed numbers are not yet announced but I would imagine similar 32 knots speed with the big 900 units as the 58. 
Tech Data:
LOA - 19.35 m (63.5ft)
Beam - 4.85 m
Draft - 1.39 m unloaded inc props
Dispalcement - 23.5 t dry
Fuel Capacity - 2600 l
Water Capacity - 928 l
Accommodation - 6 guest berths in 3 cabin, 1 or 2 crew berths in 1 cabin
Engines - 2 x Volvo D13 800hp, D13 900hp
Propulsion - line shafts in semi tunnel props
Hull Type - Vee shape with deep fore and medium 15.5 degrees aft
Construction - hand laid uni-directional, woven, and biaxial roving. Isophtalic gelcoat and resin with power pound mat.
Project - Bernard Olesinski, Fairline Design Team
Certification - CE

October 24, 2012

Improve-it = MJM 36z Downeast

Presented in 2011, the 36z Downeast by MJM comes with important updates and changes for the 2013 build year.  The improvements for the 36z Downeast start to stern with a new stepped transom featuring a central easy to operate central walk-in door.  Down below is also space for more tweaking now having an option to what regards the shower head which can be ordered with a glass enclosure.  Founded in 2002 MJM has been very much acclaimed in recent years for its efficient hulls, and suberbly built down East lobster boat looking traditional cruisers, which also seem not to hurt the wallet as most of the competition.  Some MJM models unlike most of the competition in this style of boat are powered by Volvo stern drives, with the 36z power choices starting from twin Volvo 170hp up to 300hp engines.