New Model: Cheoy Lee 87 Alpha Express Sportbridge

Cheoy Lee launches the announced a year ago new flagship model of its sport yacht Alpha series, the awaited 87 Sportbridge. The Alpha sport yacht series by Cheoy Lee was presented in early 2012 and with this latest addition features three models, the other two being the 76, of which one is a Sportbridge version. The Alpha series of sport yachts has been an interesting novelty from Cheoy Lee, who for this new challenge employed one of the best designers in fast hulls, which combined with its fame of building strong and reliable vessels should prove to be a nice development in the years to come.  Designed as its smaller sister by the known hands of Micheal Peters; hull shape and exterior lines, with an interior plan by Luiz de Basto, the 87 Alpha Express Sportbridge is a very nice looking offer in this competitive market segment.  The standard interior layout on the 87 Alpha Express Sportbridge offers a four double cabins all with private bathroom plan. The owners stateroom is located amidships and features; a walk-in wardrobe, beauty desk, and relaxing sofa. A crew lobby with small lounge L-shaped dinette and a cabin with two bunks berths is located amidships.  Standard power is twin Cats 1900hp engines which give max speed around 30 knots.  More powerful 2600hp MTU optional engines are available.      

Techicnical Data:

LOA - 26.54 m (87.1ft)

Waterline Length - 21.7 m

Beam - 6.57 m

Draft - 1.66 m full load

Displacement - 72,500 kg full load

Fuel Capacity - 6900 l

Water Capacity - 1250 l

Engines - 2 x Cats C32 1900hp, or MTU 16V-2000 2600hp

Propulsion - line shafts

Speed - 30 knots max with Cats 1900hp

Project - Micheal Peters hull and exterior lines, Luiz de Basto interior layout and decor

www.cheoyleena.com

New Model: Azimut 53 Magellano

So far the 50 Magellano has been the most successful model in the explorer range from Azimut yachts, and now after over fifty units delivered World wide in a two year period the Italian builder replaces it with the 53. This new second sized model Magellano is in fact a further update to the 50, but serious tooling rework was done here extending the hull length by four feet to aft, adding five centimeters of beam, and twelve centimeters of draft.  With this come a redesigning for the lower deck layout below, and the addition of a crew cabin to aft.  Looks wise the major visible difference of the 53 versus the 50 is the aft deck now larger, but large view windows have also been reduced to two now totaling four, these serving the midships owners room. An other change for the 53 is also the pantry now standard to starboard which can also be added with a single berth, adding the total number of cabins to four, and sleeping capability to seven guests in the fore area, all this excluding the single crew cabin to aft.  Unfortunately or at least on the Azimut website the 53 Magellano will only feature one lower deck layout, versus the four options which used to be available for the 50.  On the technical side against the 50 the 53 Magellano also features 150 more horses on tap thanks to bigger twin Cummins 500hp engines, but still keeping inline with the same speed standards of the range.

Technical Data:

LOA - 16.98 m (55.5ft) incl pulpit

Hull Length - 15.14 m

Beam - 4.7 m

Draft - 1.44 m incl props at full load

Displacement - 28.6 t full load

Fuel Capacity - 3200 l

Water Capacity - 700 l

Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins, or 7 berths in 4 cabins, 1 crew cabin berth aft

Engines - 2 x Cummins QSB 8.3 500hp

Propulsion - line shaft

Speed - 21 knots max, 16 knots cruise, 8 knots economic long range

Hull Shape - semi displacement dual mode

Project - Cor D Rover exterior lines, Bill Dixon hull shape, Azimut Yachts interior

Certification - UNI ISO 8666

www.azimutyachts.com

Project: Riviera 515 SUV

Riviera has just announced project details of the third model in its latest SUV range, the 515. This new Rivera featured a full interior display on show at the Gold Coast International Marine Expo held from November 1-3, ahead of her world release at the builder's coming Festival of Boating in May 2014. Created in-house using industry-leading Unigraphics 3D software, Riviera's team of designers and engineers have focused on maximizing this new design in every detail. This sophisticated software allows Riviera designers to see the exact size, space and scale in the computer long before a single piece of timber is cut for the plug work.  Bearing Riviera's classic hallmark design, the SUV has been crafted with down under most famous builder heritage in mind; combining high performance, blue water cruising and fish raising abilities of the classic flybridge with the single-level leisurely entertaining features of the popular Sport Yacht series. Riviera's head designer Stephen Ford said the 515 SUV featured clever and versatile design innovations.  The hardtop features two Webasto sunroofs above the saloon area that open electrically with the push of a button. The incorporation of this new sunroof design marks another exciting development in the 515 SUV's DNA, which includes purposeful lines, hefty scant-lings, the solid feel in a seaway, spacious layout, Euro-style luxurious décor, and of course  a full flybridge-size cockpit.  The aft deck cockpit features an island storage centre which offers space for an optional additional barbecue or live bait tank with filter and glass front. The cockpit seating features an optional integrated and interchangeable table, which provides a versatile alfresco entertaining area. There is a freezer and recycling bin located just behind the cockpit lounge for convenient access while entertaining.  The 515 SUV also features extensive cockpit storage with a central self-draining moulded lazarette bin that has been integrated into the cockpit floor, tender storage is on the boarding platform and there is the option for a hydraulic platform which can be fitted to the boat on which a large rigid bottom tender can be mounted.  Side deck access has been enhanced with grab rail and optional extended bow rail. The 515 SUV also features an impressive commercial air intake system designed to keep the engine room cooler and thus reducing fuel consumption.  Below decks is a flexible accommodation plan featuring three very generous sized staterooms and two bathrooms. The master stateroom can be located either forward or amidships and has an ensuite bathroom in both optional layouts to allow owners to truly personalize their boat. The two aft cabins offer full head-room while large hull windows with opening port holes on both sides give an abundance of natural light and fresh air. Optional hull port lights are available for the forward stateroom.  Standard power is twin Cummins 600hp with Zeus pod drives that are expected to top 30 knots, and cruise at 24, with a nice range of 390 nautical miles with 10 per cent reserve fuel.  There are two engine options available on the new 515 SUV; Volvo 600 and 700hp these being with IPS pod propulsion. 

www.riviera.com.au

New Model: Sea Ray 260 Sundancer

Its always nice to see Sea Ray always interested in the lower entry level part of the sport cruiser market, more so is a note that the US builder has always produced quality products in this size segment able to compete in a global market.  This new Sea Ray 260 Sundancer is the entry level into its Sport Cruiser range which spans up to 37 feet and features a total of ten models.  From a photo point of view this new 260 Sundancer offers good looking nice exterior lines, which are complimented by a nice interior layout sleeping four persons in a convertible Vee shaped dinette to fore, and a double berth amidships.  Other interesting details which think larger boat comfort for this new 260 Sundancer, are also a large bathing platform able to host a small tender, and diesel engine choice.  Considering all that is good for just eight meters in over all length.     

Technical Data:

LOA - 8.1 m (26.7ft)

Beam - 2.59 m

Draft - 1.02 m drives down

Fuel Capacity - 280 l

Water Capacity - 75 l

Accommodation - 2 + 2 berths

Engines - 1 x Mercruiser 5.0L MPI CET 265hp, 350 MAG ECT 300hp, Mercury Diesel TDI 3.0L 260hp  

Propulsion - Mercruiser Bravo III dual prop stern drive

Hull Shape - modified Vee with 21 degrees deadrise

Certification - CE, NMMA, ABYC

www.searay.com

Project: Bertram 60

I was awaiting the news of Bertram new project by the hands of Robert Ullberg since his appointment as designer and product development of the flying eagle just over a year ago.  When the famous sportfish designer joined Bertram it was an interesting exciting news, especially since the signature of the architect has been an important input in the custom community for well over a decade.  The 60 project is the first of a new page to the history of the iconic builder and the famous designers that have marked its history, from Ray Hunt, Dave Napier, and the since 1999 Zuccon Ferretti duo.  Its an important new step for Bertram! Robert Ullberg in his video message is promising one of the best 60, nineteen meters sportfishing yachts in the market today, especially to what regards fish-ability, cockpit aft deck layout, and the ever important ride and handling. Considering his curriculum of various top class custom boats designed, I am sure few if any can argue his words.  

www.bertram.com

New Model: Intermarine 48 Offshore

Continuing its strategy and investments on the development of new products, Intermarine, the leading shipyard in luxury yachts in Brazil, pre-launches the 48 Offshore at the Sao Paulo Boat Show 2013. The new model marks the return of Intermarine to the fast sport cruiser segment, in which the shipyard participated with many successful models throughout its history. Now Intermarine comes with a new approach to this kind of boat with a perfect mix of nice lines, luxury and speed. With fourteen meters plus in length overall, the new 48 Offshore is certified to carry up to 12 people. It is a sportive yet sophisticated boat. It was developed by Intermarine´s team for the owner who wants a boat for the day use with performance and refinement, but in all this also featuring a nice overnight cabin for two persons. With an aggressive design, the 48 Offshore gets even more luxurious and original with the teak flooring at the bow, surrounding the large windows and hatch that illuminate the interior. The teak is also included on the swim platform and on the steps accessing the sun bed. On the cockpit, the 48 Offshore has seats for four, a folding dining table and a bar. The helm station has double seat. To port, a stair shaped door allows access to the bow area. By sliding the door behind the helm station it is possible to go to the lower deck, where are the salon, cabin and a bathroom. There are two options for the lower deck. One has two sofas on the salon, one on each side. The other has one sofa to port and a galley to starboard with sink, cooktop, refrigerator and storage compartments. The 48 Offshore is powered by twin Volvo 725hp engines and reaches 45 knots of cruise speed and 53 of maximum. For those looking for more top end speed is an option for a more powerful version, powered by twin MAN 800hp which ends wide open throttle up to 56 knots. Like every Intermarine, the new 48 will have superb finishing, with high quality materials and excellent navigability even in the most adverse sea conditions.

Technical Data:

LOA - 14.47 m (47.4ft)

Beam - 3.13 m

Draft - 0.80 m

Displacement - 9 t unloaded, 11.5 t loaded

Fuel Capacity - 800 l

Water Capacity - 300 l

Accommodation - 2 berths

Max Persons - 12

Engines - 2 x Volvo D11 725hp, MAN R6 800hp

Speed - 56 knots max 46 cruise with MAN 800hp engines

Propulsion - surface drives

Hull Shape - deep Vee with 24 degrees deadrise aft

Project - Intermarine

www.intermarine.com.br

Carver New Web Site

Carver yachts from the US presents its new virtual World wide web showroom.  Carver started off in 1954 with Charlie Carter and George Verhagen beginning to build mahogany planked high speed runabouts.  In 1956 the two boat builders move to Pulaski, Wisconsin expanding the line up also to include larger cabin cruisers.  Carver switched to fiberglass construction in 1970 starting up with the successful run of the 32 Mariner model.  Carver expanded significantly in the US and Great Lakes area in the eighties, which was followed by uprising sales in the rest of the World.  In 1991 Carver was acquired by the Genmar Group.  Carver made numerous technical breakups in the nineties, one also of being among the first builders to use frame less windows on its cruisers.  In 2000 the largest Carver 57 Voyager Pilothouse was built.  In 2003 Carver and its parent Genmar company bought boat building facilities in Fano along with the Mochi 19 Sonic moulds and re branded this model as the Nuvari 63.  These will later be sold to Dominator, but this actually started the collaboration with Italian designers Nuvolari Lenard, and the Marquis brand creation also in 2003.  Currently Carver builds five models which start with the early 2013 launched C34 up to the 54 Voyager flagship, while its latest model is the just presented C40.  Carver Yachts new website takes you around with the following buttons; Home, Company, Yachts, Dealer, Service, Forum, Video, Clothing, and Contact.  The new web site also features links to the companies social hubs; Facebook, Forum, and Youtube page.

www.carveryachts.com

Production History;

2276 Camper 1976-80

2866 Santa Cruz 1976-81

2896 Mariner 1976-81

3395 Mariner 1976-80

2585 Monterey 1976-

3385 Monterey 1976-

2565 Santa Cruz 1976-

2570 Camper 1977-

2456 Ranger 1977-

2347 Offshore 1981-

2357 Montego 1981-

2386 Santa Cruz 1981-

2667 Santa Cruz 1981-84

2687 Monterey 1981-82

3007 Aft Cabin 1981-82

3326 Voyager 1981-

3396 Mariner 1981-84

3607 Aft Cabin 1982-89

2807 Riviera 1983-89

2827 Voyager/2897 Mariner 1983-90

3207 Aft Cabin 1983-90

3697 Mariner 1984-88

32/330 Convertible 1984-92/93

2987 Monterey 1985-86

4207 Aft Cabin Motor Yacht 1985-91

3297/330 Mariner 1985/93-96 (650+)

3257/534 Montego 1987/90-92

3807/390 Aft Cabin 1987/93-95

3867 Santego 1988-90

3067/634/340 Santego 1988/91/93-94

2557/528 Montego/280 Express 1988/92/93-98

3087 Allegra 1989-90

630 Santego 1990-93

31/532 Montego 1990/91-93

3357/538 Montego/380 Express 1990/91/93-94

36/370 Aft Cabin 1990/93-96

638/380 Santego 1990/93-2002 (1000+)

2828 Commando Bridge/300 Sedan 1991-92/93

530/300 Montego 1991-92/93

33/350 Aft Cabin 1991/93-94

28/300 Aft Cabin 1991/93-94

430 Cockpit Motor Yacht 1991-97

350 Voyager 1993-94

440 Aft Cabin 1993-95

370/374 Voyager 1993-2001/2002

390/400/404 Cockpit Motor Yacht 1993/96/99-2003

310 Santego 1994-98

320 Voyager 1994-99

310 Express 1995-97

325/326 Aft Cabin 1995/99-2001

355/356 Motor Yacht 1995/99-2003

445 Aft Cabin 1996-99

455/456 Aft Cabin Motor Yacht 1996/99-2000

500/506 Motor Yacht 1996/99-2000

405/406 Aft Cabin 1997/99-2002

350/36 Mariner 1997/2004-10

530 Voyager 1998-2005

450 Voyager 1999-2003

506 Motor Yacht 2000-04

396/39/40 Motor Yacht 2000/05-06/07

564 Cockpit Motor Yacht 2001-05

570 Voyager 2001-05

444 Cockpit Motor Yacht 2001-06

466 Motor Yacht 2001-07

366 Motor Yacht 2002-06 *346 Motor Yacht project

360/36 Sport Sedan 2003/05-06

420 Mariner 2004-06

46 Voyager 2004-08

560 Voyager 2004-09

33/35 Super Sport 2005-06/07

41 Cockpit Motor Yacht 2005-07

38 Super Sport 2005-09

42/43 Super Sport 2006/08-09

43/47 Motor Yacht 2006/08-09

52 Voyager 2007-09

44 Sojourn 2009-12

C34 Command Bridge 2013-19

C37 Coupe 2014-19

C40 Command Bridge 2014-19

C43 Coupe 2016-19

C52 Coupe 2016-19

C36 Command Bridge 2019

Project: Marlow 80 E Explorer

Marlow presents a new project which replaces the 78, a successful model in this US brand China build range of yachts. For this new challenge the US firm was challenged by two previous owners to provide for specific needs difficult to meet in the 78 despite its long term position as the most popular large Marlow ever conceived. None the less, the engineering and design staff at Marlow put more than a decade of experience in building more than two hundred yachts to work and created the new 80 which features greater fuel capacity, speed, range and volume in every sector while retaining the signature look of the US brand. The interior accommodations reflects fine joinery while the Marlow designed and built exterior hardware is top shelf. The owners and guest cabins are remarkably spacious and well planned while improved insulation takes quietness to a high level of comfort.  Carrying 15,000 liters of fuel in proprietary tanks that allow a 97% capacity burn in complete safety, the 80 E Explorer hull allows higher speed at ultra long range and unparalleled specifications to the highest of classification societies. The Captain on board the new 80 will also have one of the finest crew cabins ever developed in a Marlow Yacht with a lazarette immediately behind able to hold bikes, inflatables, water toys and other cruising tackle, all finished to a high industry standard. Hull 80-1 will feature the luxury and weather protection of Marlow’s Command Bridge for best visibility and comfort in any weather. Power to the Marlow 80 E Explorer comes from twin Caterpillars 1676hp which will push her at speeds up to 30 knots with moderate load conditions.  Her 22 meters waterline length spells more miles traveled per tank of fuel and more choices in where refueling takes place, at the same time providing exceptional speed to travel to and from destinations and outrun severe weather.

www.marlowyachts.com

New Model: Monte Carlo MCY 86

It was for sure one of the most talked about models presented in the fall of the season at the major boat shows, and also a showing that the Beneteau Group is meaning big business with its Monte Carlo yachts range.  If ever there was needed more proof of this! Three years after the debut of the first Monte Carlo Yacht the 76, MCY presents its new flagship the 86, which also signals the entrance of Beneteau Group into super yacht over 24 meters size in the power segment.  Apart the original and distinct Monte Carlo Yachts design thanks to the clever hands of Italian Venice designers Nuvolari Lenard, the MCY prides itself also for its semi custom attitude below, offering five different layout to the lower deck; three, four or five cabins choices await here.  Another interesting nice element in the MCY 86 is the location of the galley located to fore by the crew lobby, with a stair case which leads into the pilot house.  This means that the main saloon is fully dedicated for over ninety per cent for owner and guests entertainment, the only space lost here is the pilot station to starboard.   

Technical Data:

LOA - 26.3 m (86ft)

Beam - 6.46 m

Draft - 1.90 m

Displacement - 72 t

Fuel Capacity - 7100 l

Water Capacity - 1500 l

Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins, 8 berths in 4 cabins, or 10 berths in 5 cabins, 4 crew berths in 2 cabins

Engines - 2 x MAN V12 1800hp

Propulsion - line shaft

Speed - 29 knots max, 24 knots cruse

Construction - reinforced fiberglass with Kevlar and Carbon fiber 

Project - Nuvolari Lenard Venice, Monte Carlo Yachts

Certification - CE A

www.montecarloyachts.it 

blogger - Just Building Boats

After years of excessive designs the word in the recent boat shows from many builders, during the routine interviews was that now we have our feet on the ground and the current market wants standard practical craft which are easy to resell, and have a lasting look to them.  This wording seemed to be a common dominatrix even from builders who are usually associated with very glamorous custom semi-custom craft, something nice to see at the shows, or the prime cruising areas in Europe or in North America.  

But while this interview may want to capture a sentiment existing in the buyers seeing the photos from the boat shows still shows a different picture.  Glamour boats with extreme design, and shiny some of them even strange colors did not seem to be in decline.  I add if you take a picture of for example the Cannes show from 2007 that is before the recession, and do it along side one from this year event it might be just the same numbers of boats not standard colored in white, blue, or beige.  

So why all this talk about building just boats, when the reality at the shows is the opposite? Its a fact since a few decades now, that glamour and exclusivity sell in all parts of life, most so in yachts costing close to or over a million.  Exclusivity can sometimes fall in the category hard to sell later on, but still has its effect on buyers, and why not.  It's nice to have that cruiser or yacht with a color only you have in the marina, more so if that yacht is a unique built in only a couple of units or just for you. In the end a more customized boat just becomes more personal and a mirror of ones character.