Waltman M. Walters 1926 - 2015

Walt Walters died this 29 December at the age of 89.  Born in Rochester, Minnesota, Waltman M. Walters studied aeronautical engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, switched to mechanical engineering, and then got married and moved to Florida. His first job was as draftsman at Scottie Craft just as the company was shifting from wood to fiberglass construction. Next was Squall King, and then a partnership with Carl Moesly building the American Marc line for Arthur Vining Davis, head of Alcoa.  Following Dick Bertram’s historic victory in the 1960 Miami to Nassau Race, in a Ray Hunt designed deep-V named Moppie, Bertram formed Bertram Yachts and hired Walters as production engineer for the Bertram 31. Not long after, Walters and Jim Wynne teamed to design and race offshore powerboats. Their first, the 16 feet Wyn Mill, was sufficiently successful to draw the attention of Don Aronow, who commissioned Walters and Wynne to design the Formula 233, which was in continuous production for 19 years, until 1983, and is one of the most-copied hulls ever built. In the following years Walters designed boats for Donzi, Chris-Craft, Luhrs, Starcraft, Fino, Monza, Botved-Coronet, Kiekhaefer, Aquasport a landmark 22/6.7m popularized the center-console open-fisherman type), the upmarket Magnum and many more. He even designed a few sailboats for Bill Soverel.

Project: Hinckley T34R

Hinckley launches a new golden age runabout with a 34 footer that is fast and dry with a ride choreographed by its patented Jet-stick handling. The T34R, is based on the hull of the Talaria 34 but presents itself as a pure classic cuddy cabin runabout.  The 34R is all centered around its huge exterior shape, with a large sun-pad aft, and a C-shape dinette to midships taking center stage.  But do not be mistaken down below the 34R offers cabin space space with a shower head to fore peak, two bench settees, and two units upon entrance.  The T34R is powered by twin Yanmar 320hp propelled by jet power, and can reach max speeds up to 34 knots.  

www.hinckleyyachts.com

New Model: Viking 52 Open

When Viking started the revamp of the 52 express series, it started with the design of the 52 Open.  Interesting though due to the advantage of the hard top SC and ST sister models, the original 52 Open is the last one to launch, of  a four model series including the Convertible.  None the less the 52 Open, is the most classic looking of the 52's, presenting itself as a pure express with a lot of classic flair going into it.  That large wrap around windscreen, and fore flash deck all say timeless looks.  Like the other 52's express the Open version is more or less identical, down below it will offer a two or three cabins version choice, and the raised helm deck presents itself with a central console, an L-shaped dinette to starboard, and an L-shape wet-bar to port.  Power options start from twin Man 1000 up to 1400hp units.     

Technical Data:

LOA - 16.2 m (53.2ft)
Beam - 5.3 m
Draft - 1.5 m
Displacement - 30390 kg loaded
Fuel Capacity - 4550 l
Water Capacity - 704 l
Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins
Engines - 2 x MAN 8V CRM 1000hp, 1200hp, 12V CRM 1400hp
Propuslion - line shaft
Speed - 40 knots max, 35 knots cruise with MAN 1200hp
Construction - Vacuum bagged Aramid and E-glass hybrid, end grain balsa plus foam core, epoxy and polyester resin blend

www.vikingyachts.com

Project: Wim Van Der Valk 27m Continental Two

Van der Valk Continental Yachts in the Netherlands has received an order for a new 27-metre Continental Two motoryacht. The naval architecture brief will be met by Jaron Ginton, while Guido de Groot is responsible for both the exterior and interior design. The involved broker and owners representative is Nautimar Marine. Construction of the hull will start in January and the yacht is slated for delivery in the spring of 2017.  The owner of the new 27m Continental Two is a very experienced yachtsman with some very clear requirements. Van der Valk was the natural choice to take on the project as a yard with a proven track record in accommodating such wide-ranging wishes.  The all-aluminium, round-bilge fast displacement hull will feature a bulb on the submerged section, extending the waterline. This will set the yacht apart from vessels with a traditional hull and improve performance. The seven metre short beam will be exceptionally wide and the yacht will have Lloyd’s approval for the construction and welding plan, as well as full MCA-MGN-280 Vessel operating Category 2 certification.

www.vandervalkshipyard.com

Project: Galeon 510 Skydeck

Sharing the hull with the fall 2015 launched 500 Fly, the 510 Skydeck will offer amazing amount of space on all decks, a staple of all Galeon third generation yachts. With broad windows all around, and transformation bulkheads aft and to the sides, passengers will enjoy a unique atmosphere on the main deck.  What sets the 510 Skydeck model apart from the Fly is the ability to combine the advantages of having a top deck with the distinct, sporty look of a hardtop. Consider the 510 Skydeck as a hybrid sport motor yacht.  The Galeon 510 Skydeck will also feature a full-sized sunroof over the helm and an automatic soft roof to cover the deck when necessary.   

www.galeon.pl

New Model: Princess 30M

Princess super yacht M class range has been growing stronger since the company launched the first of the series the 32M in 2011.  The 30M is an official replacement to the 32M, and decreases the start up size of the three model M class range from 99 feet.  Designed by since the early nineteen eighties long time Princess designer Bernard Olesinski and the design team of the Plymouth boat builder, the 30M takes a lot of looks from the bigger 35 and 40M sisters.  Exterior wise the 30M features a raised pilot house two and half deck layout, while inside the standard plan of the 30M offers a three double cabins below, and an owners stateroom on the main floor accommodation plan.  Crew quarters are served by three double cabins located to fore ship below deck, with private access from the galley on the main floor.  Power comes from three MTU choices starting with twin 1948hp, and going up to the big 2637hp good for peak top speed of 27 knots.     

Technical Data:

LOA - 30.45 m (99.9ft)

Beam - 7.05 m

Draft - 2.06 m

Displacement - 98 t

Fuel Capacity - 12200 l

Water Capacity - 1600 l

Accommodation - eight guests in four cabins, five crew in three cabins

Engines - 2 x MTU 12v2000 M94 1948hp, 16v2000 M84 2217hp, 16v2000 M94 2637hp

Propulsion - line shaft

Speed - 27 knots max with MTUs 2637hp

Project - Bernard Olesinski, Princess Design Studio

www.princessyachts.com

Project: Prestige 680 S

The 680 S project completes the line of Prestige motor yachts. A Sportfly version of the new 680, the S concept features a large, sliding glass sunroof that opens over the saloon, to transform the interior space in an instant.  The flybridge with access from the aft deck to port side with a stair case perfectly integrates into her sporty line. The fly will feature a full helm station as well as an inviting open-air saloon.  The interior lower offers two layout choices of three of four double cabins, plus a crew cabin sleeping two aft.  Prestige 680 S will be powered by twin Volvo 900hp with forward looking dual propeller IPS pod propulsion system.

www.prestige-yachts.com

Engine: MAN V12 1900hp

MAN engines showcase their most powerful high-speed four-stroke diesel engine to date with the twelve-cylinder V engine with 1900hp bearing the distinctive name V12-1900 and was specifically designed for use in luxury yachts of over 100 feet. The complete redesign of the injection, power train and cooling system has allowed MAN to achieve an increase in output of 100hp compared to the established V12-1800. With installation dimensions of 2,139 mm x 1,153 mm x 1,265 mm; length x width x height, the V12-1900 comes in the MAN Engines customary compact size. At 2365kg dry weight and as a result of the increase in output to 1900hp, the most powerful series engine from MAN Truck & Bus has an outstanding power to weight ratio with a high power density and compact installation dimensions. This therefore gives architects and boat builders significant room in terms of design. A maximum torque of 6,220 Nm, at 1,200 to 2,100 rpm, makes the V12-1900 the most powerful engine to date in the MAN Engines portfolio, thus delivering ample output reserves for overtaking fun when piloting luxury yachts. The high-performance unit generates its power from 24.2 litre displacement ensuring high power development even at the lower end and right across a broad speed range. The even and constant acceleration delivers a pleasant and comfortable ride right through to the upper end of the speed range. The special design ensures very smooth running and thus provides a relaxed ride, adding to the comfort on board. At its optimum, the specific fuel consumption of the V12-1900 is at the same low level of 190 g/kWh as its heavier sister model, the V12-1800. The V12-1900 is MAN's response to the issue of increased performance for both planning and displacement hulls. 

www.engines.man.eu

Project: Horizon E56 XO

Horizon announces the project for a new E56 XO sport yacht.  The E56 XO is based on the popular E56 motor yacht model and is designed primarily for the Australian market, although Horizon sees her potential for the global market. Hull one of the Horizon E56XO sport yacht is in the beginning stages of construction and scheduled to make her world debut in May 2016 at the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show in Australia. The new Horizon E56 XO features sleek exterior styling, with reduced gunnel heights for a lower profile and large window lines, and her newly-designed outdoor areas focuses on the ultimate alfresco experience. A custom-designed aft deck transom cabinet transforms into a serving area, incorporating a BBQ, sink, storage, and bait-well.  A perfect spot to entertain or relax in while guests partake in water sports off of the hydraulic swim platform. For sunny days at anchor, the E56 XO’s forward deck offers a dinette seating and sun-pads, a popular design on Horizon’s larger motor-yachts now included in this model.  As the first Horizon E56 XO will debut in Australia, the main deck opens to a fully-equipped aft-galley and breakfast bar; extensive storage is located on the starboard side and includes a hydraulic Hi/Lo TV that is ideally located for viewing either in the galley or the forward salon. With a Hi/Lo table and U-shaped seating, the salon can be easily transformed into a dining area that accommodates six guests. The forward lower helm features twin helm chairs, complete Raymarine navigational equipment, and everything needed to safely and easily pilot the E56 XO sport yacht.  Below deck, the full-beam Master stateroom is laid out to maximize space, with the head forward of the Queen bed, a chaise to starboard for taking in the view, and a large expanse of storage cabinets plus a closet to port. The VIP stateroom is found forward in the bow and replicated from the E56 model, but the starboard twin stateroom includes two twin beds; a sizable shared head is located to starboard.  Powered by twin CAT 705hp engines, the new Horizon E56 XO is estimated to reach a top speed of 26 knots; with the optional Volvo 725hp but coupled to IPS pod drives, she will attain a top speed of 32 knots. Additionally, the hull has been designed to accommodate Seakeeper gyro stabilizers if desired, and the Yacht Controller wireless remote docking system included in hull one ensures stress-free maneuvering and docking.

www.horizonyacht.com

New Model: Heesen 50m YN 17350

Heesen announces the delivery of 50m full custom super yacht Ann G hull number YN 17350.  This latest Hessen has been intensively tested in the North Sea and exceeded the contractual speed by 0.6 knots, reaching a top speed of 15.6 knots!  Arcon Yachts projected and managed the construction of this unique super yacht.  The owner appointed Clifford Denn to draw the exterior profile of his unique Heesen, a perfect example of a vessel that exudes the strong individuality of her owner while keeping the family feeling that characterizes all yachts delivered by Heesen.  Award-winning designers Raymond Langton and team created the bold interiors of Ann G.

Technical Data:

LOA - 49.6 m (163ft)

Beam - 9 m

Accommodation - 10 guests in 5 cabins

Engines - 2 x MTU 8V4000 M63 1341hp

Propulsion - line shaft

Speed - 15 knots max, 12 knots cruise

Range - 4000 nm at 12 knots

Hull Shape - displacement

Project - Clifford Denn exterior, Raymond Langton interior, Van Oossanen and Associates naval architect

Certification - Lloyds 100A1 SSC Yacht LMC UMS

www.heesenyachts.com