June 19, 2014

Projects: Bavaria 360 Sport Coupe, Bavaria 360 Sport HT, Bavaria 360 Sport Open, Bavaria 360 Sport ST

Bavaria sets a standard in the sport cruiser segment with the project of the 360 Sport redefining new dynamics in choice. The new 360 will be available not in two, but in four different versions all targeting different users and area types. Besides the Open and Hardtop versions, Bavaria will be launching a new Coupe at a World Premiere in early September at the Oslo Boat Show. A Soft-Top version will also be available. Open, Hardtop, Soft-Top, or as a Coupe, the new 360 Sport is indeed versatile. The entire cockpit was designed according to modern requirements and is the social area on this medium sized sport cruiser. The seating area with cockpit table at the rear is a fantastic place for a relaxing drink or dinner with friends in the evening. During the day this area is easily converted in just a few steps to a large sun-pad. The 360 Sport is again a project by Marco Casali and his Too Design team, the man behind the much appreciated 420 Virtess, who here keeps amazingly beautiful and clear lines in the 360 Sport, respecting his Rome Central Italy roots. The hull form uses the knowledge of nautical architects Insenaval SL, while the modern, stylish and functional interior comes from Design Unlimited. The finishing touches and technical details in the 360 are from the designers and engineers of the Bavaria Sport line and all their previous experiences are incorporated in this new sport cruiser. Even with a new hard top concept, the 360 Sport is about practicality, large windows create a spacious all around view. Attention to detail, experience and a demanding technical level have been the premises of the designers and engineers at Bavaria in the development of the interior of the new 360 Sport. A wide range choice of fabrics and woods to the newly designed helm where a functional and simple design are key. Standard power for the Bavaria 360 Sport will be twin Mercruiser 260hp petrol gas engines.

June 17, 2014

New Launch: Jarrett Bay 43 Hardtop Express Hull #53

It's been a long construction journey for this Jarrett Bay 43 Hardtop Express which started its life back in 2009, only to be halted a year later due to the recession. Come time the 43 Hardtop Express finds a new owner who jumps into completing hull number 53, and with this come a change of plans and design, transforming itself from an Open, to a Hardtop Express, and modifying the hull to accommodate ZF Zeus pods. In many ways the 43 Hardtop Express is Jarrett Bay most innovative build to date. The Hardtop which occupies the super structure makes it also look different to the other Jarrett Bay fifty plus custom builds. Inside the layout also brings some innovation mostly thanks to the use of the ZF pod drives and the engines located further aft which allow the space for a second twin berth midships located cabin. Performance wise the Jarrett Bay 43 Hardtop Express has still some nice numbers on its side, although not high as the usual custom sportfish boat of forty knots plus. Still the 43 Hardtop Express offers interesting economic runs at a cruise of 31 knots and a fuel burn of 5.5 litres per nautical mile. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 13.1 m (43ft)
Waterline Length - 11.8 m
Beam - 4.41 m
Draft - 1.06 m
Displacement - 18143 kg dry
Fuel Capacity - 2082 l
Water Capacity - 189 l
Accommodation - 4 berths in 2 cabins
Engines - 2 x Cummins QSC 600hp
Propulsion - ZF Zeus aft looking dual propeller pod drives
Speed - 31 knots cruise, 36 knots max
Construction - cold moulded epoxy with fiberglass, jig method

June 15, 2014

Project: Codecasa 65

After three previous Codecasa 65’s delivered between 2008 and 2010, which are the current flagships of the displacement Yachts series signed by the Viareggio shipyard, this very appreciated Italian super yacht builder presents the project of a new 65 that reviews and highlights the distinctive features of the three previous hulls that made them so successful. Designed by Codecasa exterior stylist Domenico Gozzani, the 65 features big interior volumes and extremely clean and precise exterior lines distributed over four decks. The lower deck with the guests area made of four large cabins. The main deck entirely devoted to the reception and the hospitality thanks to the huge salon and the adjacent dining room. To follow the upper deck, for the exclusive benefit of the owner, that includes a second salon and a large owner’s Suite with a contiguous VIP cabin and a direct access to a very private external living area forward. To conclude, then, the bridge deck with its wheelhouse and big spaces for other amenities, to be chosen by the owner. The final outcome of this third totally different 65 is a super yacht poised in the hull and superstructures distribution, that recovers styles belonging to the nautical tradition, using as few lines as possible and limiting itself to the essential ones, without renouncing to the solidity of the whole. This leads the observer to be spontaneously fascinated and subtly and naturally seduced, something that only well-proportioned shapes and fine geometries can do, never losing their sobriety and never meaning to surprise at all costs through showy devices, special effects or any other eccentricities of the moment.

June 13, 2014

New Model: Galeon 660 Fly

In recent years Galeon has been growing from strong to stronger, thanks to an incredible line up of models and a very attentive product update, the Strazyn builder has quickly captured an always growing audience. While Galeon had a few important models in its recent history one of its most relevant was the 640 Fly launched in 2007 and designed by British Tony Castro. This was the model which made an important statement where Galeon wants to go, to its clients and motor yacht fans alike. Now after some years and few improvements, the 640 gets updated to the 660 Fly. A new model in many terms but one which still has its basics coming from the 640 and its success, the 660 Fly is in Galeon words a third generation update of the model it replaces. While the model retains a lot of the important elements, the 660 gets refreshed in the windows department both on main and lower deck, the stern, and a large bathing platform able to carry 700 kilograms of weight. Inside the 660 Fly retains the popular four cabins layout this having a full beam amidships owners stateroom, VIP to fore, twin guest cabin to starboard, and fourth room with bunks berths. To aft is a crew cabin with one berth.
Technical Data:
LOA - 21.95 m (72ft)
Hull Length - 19.8 m
Beam - 5.25 m
Draft - 1.16 m
Displacement - 34460 kg unloaded, 40950 kg loaded
Fuel Capacity - 2 x 1750 l
Water Capacity - 1000 l
Accommodation - 8 guest berths in 4 cabins, 1 crew cabin berth
Max Persons - 16
Engines - 2 x MTU 8V2000 M92 1085hp, MAN V12 1360hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Project - Tony Castro, Galeon
Certification - CE B

June 11, 2014

Project: Austin Parker 36 Hybrid

The Austin Parker 36 Hybrid project is an evolution of the classic 36 foot boat, the latest to be launched on the market by the Italian yard, in 2013. This traditional lobster cruiser inspired boat can be operated in three ways: driven by the diesel engines, using the electric motors only with zero fuel consumption, or with a combination of the diesel and electric for the highest performance, estimated at 27 knots. On long trips, the 36 Hybrid can be powered by the electric motors and diesel engines in alternation: when the engines are in operation, the batteries that power electric propulsion can be recharged. Therefore, when electric and Diesel propulsion are alternated, fuel consumption is cut drastically by about 50%. This hybrid drive system brings many benefits, both in terms of fuel saving and a reduction in the emission produced, and with regard to the potential use of the boat, since it can be used without restrictions on lakes and rivers, especially in Northern Europe, and in marine parks and nature reserves, without damage to the environment. As well as its innovative propulsion system, the Austin Parker 36 Hybrid features several important new details: the hard top is in carbon, while the sun roof (which slides open) is fitted with photo-voltaic panels to charge the lithium battery system. The teak of all the decking and interior floors is in synthetic material, which is much lighter, tough and of the highest quality. The hull is painted pale grey with the gunwales finished with polyurethane paint for a long maintenance-free life. Not just innovation: Austin Parker is also famed for its style, elegance and attention to details. Sophisticated materials and craftsman-like care make this yacht a worthy heir to those that have shaped the history of lobster boats in Italy.

June 9, 2014

New Model: Sarnico 60 GTV

Since the Sarnico 60 launched in 2005 three versions have been proposed by this very much appreciated Italian builder: standard open hard top version, GT, and now this new GTV which once again shows the skill to realize sport yachts identified for the highest tradition, focusing attention on the quality of the hull, the absolute elegance, the care in the creation of an exclusive product tailored to the owner in its entirety, from the internal to external layout. Building boats in hand way method is the only way to offer the greatest attention to customer desires. The Sarnico 60 GTV has been produced interpreting an owner's need to live intensely on board, turning the yacht into a place where managing even his own business. In this way, the work takes place in an atmosphere full of charm and in beautiful holiday destinations. The Sarnico 60 GTV offers the opportunity to stay on the main deck into three wonderful areas: the long foredeck, the living room protected by a patio door and the huge sunroof; the large stern living which is a convivial area that can accommodate many people even in navigation thanks to the aerodynamics shape and protection of the deck house minimizing air flow in the cockpit. Below deck, all the rooms are very airy. At the request of the owner of this yacht, the amidships cabin was transformed into a multimedia studio where meeting people and staying in touch with the rest of the world. The day bathroom is also accessible from this office. In the other versions, however, the master room is located in this area. The dinette is furnished with a sofa and a fully equipped kitchen for a long life on board even counting on the huge galley under the cockpit. At the bow there is the owner's suite with private bath and plenty of space for the wardrobe. The quality of the craftsmanship, the elegant shapes of the furniture, the care of each finish are all the result of a long and noble art something not to find in series production. The crew cabin is at the stern separated from other rooms by the engine compartment. The seaworthiness of all Sarnico yachts is widely known and the 60 has always been known as a superbly balanced hull thanks to the central position of the engines coupled with painstaking care where to install systems and equipment. This configuration determines the excellent stability of the boat in any situation at anchor as in navigation. Of course, the trim and the performance take advantage by this engine layout. As the matter of fact, the hull gets on plane at 13 knots and at 15 each engine needs only forty liters an hour of fuel. With twin 1000hp Man, the Sarnico 60 GTV reaches a cruising speed of 34 knots at full throttle the numbers climb to a fast 39 knots in total comfort and control.
Technical Data:
LOA - 18.97 m (62.2ft)
Beam - 4.80 m
Draft - 1.41 m
Displacement - 23 t dry
Fuel Capacity - 2500 l
Water Capacity - 650 l
Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins (standard layout), 1 crew cabin berth
Max Persons - 12
Engines - 2 x MAN 1000hp 
Propulsion - line shafts
Speed - 39 knots max, 34 knots cruise
Project - Nuvolari Lenard exterior and interior
Certification - CE B

June 6, 2014

New Launch: CRN 73m hull. 132

More than one thousand people including local Institutions, illustrious guests, employees and their families, the Ferretti Group and CRN Management as well as the citizens of Ancona participated in the enthralling launch ceremony of the new 73m CRN 132 named M/Y Yalla, which was held late morning at the Ancona shipyard. CRN is a shipyard and brand of the Ferretti Group, which for over 50 years has been constructing fully-customized super yachts in steel and alluminium of up to 90 metres. The external profile of the new vessel has been designed by Omega Architects, in close collaboration with the CRN Engineering Department which developed the naval project, while their interiors have been created by Droulers Architecture, which has worked in close collaboration with the shipyard’s Interiors and Design Office.  The new super yacht, the first to be built by CRN on the new naval platform of 12.50 metres in width, is characterized by sleek, slender and sporty lines, which make the profile particularly streamlined. With five decks, M/Y CRN 132 73 m can host up to twelve guests in its six cabins, including the owner Suite and Vip cabins, together with a crew of 22 members. The construction of this new jewel of the sea, which includes the best design solutions realized by CRN, has required around 430,000 hours of work from the shipyard workers and subcontractors and the daily contribution of over 150 direct and indirect workers. The launch ceremony was introduced with the greetings and speeches of the top managers and the local authorities: Alberto Galassi, new CEO of the Ferretti Group, Lamberto Tacoli, Chairman and CEO of CRN, Xinyu Xu, Vice-chairman of Weichai Group, together with the Mayor of Ancona Valeria Mancinelli.
Technical Data:
LOA - 73 m (240ft)
Beam - 12.5 m
Engines - 2 x Cats 3512B 2040hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Accommodation - 12 guests in 6 cabins, 22 crew
Project - Omega Architects exterior, Doulers Architecture interior, Ferretti Group CRN Engineering
Certification - ABS class, MCA Certified 

June 4, 2014

Project: Maritimo M65

Maritimo finally fills an important gap in its motor yacht range presenting a project between its M78 flagship, and the M58. This new M65 has been welcomed in the Maritimo family with high regard with the Gold Coast builder selling already three models on plan. The M65 continues Maritimo looks with an upper structure echoing sportfish enclosed bridge elements, and a hull featuring yacht practicalities; see walk around deep bulwarks side decks, full railing protection, and side windows for the cabins. The interior of the M65 will offers four double cabins, with a VIP to fore and a full beam owners stateroom. Power for the M65 is twin Volvo 900hp units or quadruple 700hp engines with IPS pod drives. The range capability is pretty interesting with a larger to usual 6300 liters fuel capacity giving a range of 600 nautical miles at 22 knots.

June 2, 2014

New Model: Oxygene 77 Air

Oxygene yachts first model the 77 Air is an interesting power catamaran praised by the business press and the public, which validated a project of developing a unique range of yachts in different calibers. With her 23 meters in length, she is the standard model of the Oxygene line up: and impresses for its 279 square meters living area, giving a rare sensation of space in a yacht of this size. From the stern, a perspective unfolds in the axis of the ship and spreads, uninterrupted views towards the horizon. Both the design and building of 77 Air refused to compromise on environmental protection, a challenge that allowed the elaboration of a product that pushes the boundaries of Eco-responsibility. An extensive study of the hulls and an expert knowledge in wind-age and aerodynamics led to the conception of a power catamaran that may, for instance, use only fifty liters per hour for a cruising speed of 12 knots.
Technical Data:
LOA - 23.5 m (77ft)
Beam - 10.4 m
Draft - 1.10 m
Displacement - 35 t unloaded, 40 t loaded
Accommodation - 8 berths in 4 cabins, 2 crew cabins berths
Engines - 2 x Volvo D4 260hp, 600hp
Propulsion - jet drives, or Volvo IPS forward looking dual propeller pod drives
Speeds - 12 knots cruise, 22 knots max
Construction - wood, epoxy, carbon composite
Project - Maillet, Plessis, Moulin naval architecture, Frederic Salfati interior exterior design

June 1, 2014

blogger - Prepared or Not

Since the recession has come and go, the current year seems to be one with the most momentum, where I am seeing brokerage boats finally stabilizing in price. It will be interesting to see if the European market is prepared to a similar demand of a decade ago.
As it is boats take time to build, and in the last few years not much has been constructed, and most of this went to other places other then Europe. The market might be at an interesting spot if the right ingredients fall into spot, and just as in the nineties we might see used boats in good condition and with name selling for good prices. 
This current good momentum can be stopped with two things in my mind. 
The conflict in Ukraine getting worse then it is and involving other countries, and last but not least the problem of berths involving boaters favorite areas. The circle has increased and unlike a decade ago today we also have Croatia which is in the circle of favorite Mediterranean places. Sicily is still trying to get its hold on this, and Sardinia has not much places left where to put marinas in its admired and expensive North East area. Greece is still a mixed area, and the South of France remains a favorite along Spain and its Balearic Island for most Northern boaters settling in the med. Italy remain a home affair, mostly thanks to its expensive marinas, high fuel cost, and bureaucratic systems. Corsica has been a big surprise in recent years fueled by Italians who increased the visit to the island during July and August, thanks to its half prices less compared to Sardinia, and the cheaper fuel.