-pic of the month- Riva Private Deck at Mykonos
Azimut Summer Wave
Launched in Porto Venere, the Azimut Summer Wave will touch on some of the Mediterranean’s most enchanting destinations before docking at Palma de Mallorca on August 5 for the world preview of the Azimut S7, the latest addition to the Azimut Yachts S Collection, reserved for a highly select group of owners who will enjoy the privilege of going on board ahead of the Cannes Boat Show. A rich programmed of events will enliven the beaches and marinas of Bodrum, Mykonos, Mallorca, Ibiza and Formentera, with all the ingredients for a perfect, unforgettable summer and a single common denominator: a passion for the sea and the latest generation Made in Italy lifestyle La Dolce Vita 3.0. With a backdrop of crystalline waters and cocktail parties rivaling the spectacle of summer sunsets, the Azimut fleet will ferry its guests around the most beautiful bays in the Mediterranean. The Azimut Summer Wave got underway in Porto Venere on July 7 with the Azimut Rendez-V Marine, an exclusive event organized by V Marine (official Azimut Yachts dealer), which drew over 200 guests and a fleet of 25 Azimut brand boats to the Ligurian resort. The inauguration of the Azimut Summer Wave featured some unique experiences, including a visit to the Comsubin naval base at Le Grazie (open to the public for the first time) and a gala dinner orchestrated by star chef Carlo Cracco. The harbor front was turned into an exclusive outdoor salon, with exquisite creations by Damiani Gioielli and Venini and tailored suits by Isaia and F.lli Tallia di Delfino ushering guests into an atmosphere of laid back luxury and Made in Italy beauty. Next stop Bodrum, where Italian style and Mediterranean flavors mingled in the light of turquoise waters: for the delight of Azimut guests and owners, there was an exclusive dinner at Assaggio, the Italian restaurant in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. The Azimut Summer Wave will reach the Greek coastline on the weekend of July 28, at Mykonos, where the legendary gourmet restaurant Remezzo will be organizing an exclusive dinner event. Music and cocktails will then open the new Azimut Lounge, which will be animating Kalo Livadi beach, one of the most beautiful on the island, for the whole summer. Centre stage, of course, will be Azimut’s boats, all on display and available for visits by appointment. Next on the calendar, the Balearic Islands for the grand finale and world preview of the new Azimut S7, which will take the Summer Wave to Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza through the crystalline waters of Formentera. Select owners will be able to test drive the Azimut S7 and go on board the Azimut 77S and 55S. With music, cocktails and spectacular acrobatics by athlete Lindsay McQueen, Azimut will be animating the bays and evenings in the these pearls of the Mediterranean and sharing the Made in Italy lifestyle of a brand representing luxury, style and innovation: La Dolce Vita 3.0. Partnering Azimut are three icons of the international glamour: Audemars Piguet, Ferrari Trento and Technogym.
Azimut Rendez-V Marine
Held on the weekend of July 7, 8 and 9 in the magnificent setting provided by Porto Venere near La Spezia, this was the third event organised by V Marine, Azimut Yachts’ exclusive dealer for northern and central Italy. For Vincenzo Soria, Owner and Founder of V Marine with Valerio Tesei, Rendez-V represents an opportunity to share the pleasure of the sea with customers and enthusiasts. “Our intention,” he explains, “is no longer exclusively that of selling a specific product. What we want to do is offer our customers a new motoryacht-related entertainment experience. We are committed to welcoming them in an exclusive atmosphere with a unique family feeling, one that enthusiastically brings together the Customers and friends of the V Marine Owners Club. The people who contact V Marine join an exclusive club, one that unites lovers of yachting, sophisticated luxury and fun”. In an exclusive arrangement, guests were given the chance to visit the Comsubin Military Base, which is usually out of bounds for civilians, to learn about the points of excellence of one of the Italian Navy’s most storied Units. The day was brought to a close by an entertaining barbecue “captained” by Chef Carlo Cracco. At the event, joining the 25 sporty, sophisticated Azimut Yachts models, were the latest tenders in the Pirelli collection and all the thrill of the Seabob range. The nautical sector was also represented by stalwarts Volvo Penta and Raymarine. Guests were welcomed in a series of elegant spaces, including the port promenade, which was transformed by the sophisticated, edgy furnishings provided by Talenti into a luxurious outdoor reception area, embellished with decorations by Fendi Casa, while Swiss International Air Lines fitted out an entire lounge to welcome guests. Completing the experience were presentations of creations by Damiano Gioielli and Venini, with the elegant jewels by Rocca, in addition to Acqua dell’Elba fragrances, fabrics Made in Italy by APR, and carbon fiber masterpieces by Teknomonster. Finally, Isaia and F.lli Tallia di Delfino worked together to offer Rendez-V Marine guests exclusive made to measure suits. V Marine also took advantage of the event to present the recent partnerships signed with Italian community catering leader Elior and with S.Pellegrino, which created a special bottle dedicated to the event exclusively for V Marine. This is a privilege so far reserved for brands and personalities of the calibre of Missoni, Vogue, Bulgari and Pavarotti. Numerous entertainment opportunities were organised throughout the weekend, including dinner on Saturday evening prepared by Starchef Carlo Cracco, followed by a DJ set by “Nick the Nightfly” from Radio Montecarlo. Finally, Collina dei Ciliegi and Pommery Champagne organised a tasting of their products for guests, to raise a toast together to the success of the third Rendez-V Marine.
Beneteau Boat Club
Beneteau and their dealers are always on the lookout for new ways to enjoy boating, so in spring 2017, they launched the Beneteau Boat Club, taking inspiration from clubs in the United States. The first single brand club in France, this new service means that, without owning them, boaters can now enjoy Beneteau’s latest motorboat models. This is a great step towards hassle-free “on demand” boating for anyone with a boat licence. Designed for anyone wishing to take the model of their choice out to sea, whenever they like, Beneteau Boat Club guarantees its members the unique expertise and friendly approach of Beneteau’s professional network. By offering a fleet of 60 motorboats across 15 bases in France and Spain, as of this year, the Beneteau Boat Club is now the biggest European boat club. This service may be extended the Italian and British coasts. The aim is to offer a service that will enable anyone to find the boat to suit their sailing programme, with the same level of service wherever they go. When you join the Beneteau Boat Club, you have unrestricted access to a fleet of outstanding quality! To enjoy this new boating freedom, all you need to do is pay a membership fee of 1,000 euros. Once a member, you will be able to enjoy à la carte boating on a credit system, by booking the boat you would like at the site you have chosen. Then all you need to do is be on site the day of the handover and enjoy the new freedom. This approach to boating is cheaper for its users than standard chartering. In addition to unrestricted boating, Beneteau Boat Club is an ideal way to try out a new model with a view to a future buy and it is also a way of sharing your passion. All through the year, members are invited to exclusive events such as theme nights, the first showing of Beneteau’s new models, boat shows, and boating rendezvous. “I really love your new Beneteau! You do? Which one? ” This type of interaction could become commonplace on the quays in the months to come. Whether you feel like racing or cruising, or whether you choose a day getaway or a week’s cruise, there is always a model to suit your project. The fleet available offers recent boats (less than three years old) and is meticulously maintained. Before the keys are handed over, each boat is prepared by member of our professional network on the chosen site. This person will provide boaters with information and advice on the area of navigation and weather, as well as personalized assistance when handing over the chosen model.
Ferretti Group Navy Beach Rendez Vous
Ferretti Group America and Allied Marine’s annual Rendez-Vous was held on Saturday, July 15th, at Navy Beach Restaurant in Montauk, New York. The event attracted about 20 yachts from the Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Mochi Craft and Custom Line plus many Allied Marine clients. Upon arrival by the sea, all the guests were picked up by dedicated tenders and brought ashore where they were greeted with a selection of champagne and wines curated by Louis Roederer; The best in Hamptons style cuisine from Navy Beach Restaurant. Music from DJ Adam brought people to their feet as they mingled and shopped new designs offered by Sag Harbor’s own Stella Flame Jewelry. “As our family of owners across Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Mochi Craft and Custom Line continues to grow, it is truly amazing that so many joined us for this annual event. Lots of them say they are already planning to attend next year. And we’re looking forward to hosting them once again on board our upcoming Italian nautical jewels”, stated Stefano de Vivo, Ferretti Group Chief Commercial Officer.
Ferretti Group New Dealer in Benelux
The Ferretti Group is strengthening further its already important presence in continental Europe thanks to an exclusive partnership agreement with Yacht Consult B.V. for the markets of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. The agreement provides for the exclusive sales and distribution rights for three years, until August 2020, for Ferretti Yachts, Riva and Pershing yacht brands. The choice to partner with Yacht Consult B.V. is part of the ongoing sales plan development, which also includes significant investments, that Ferretti Group is implementing globally. With this new dealership, the Group is expanding even further its network of selected distributors made up of over 60 dealers spread across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and the Americas and the Asia-Pacific region, providing a service of absolute excellence in over 80 countries around the world. By relying on a highly professional partner like Yacht Consult B.V., the Ferretti Group is boosting its distribution channel in one of the most economically important areas on the Continent, Benelux. The decision aims to cater to the ever growing interest shown by a large number of yacht owners and enthusiasts in the wide-ranging fleet of open, coupé and flybridge yachts made under the Ferretti Yachts, Riva and Pershing brands. “The agreement with Yacht Consult B.V is a new, important partnership in major markets for our Group as well as being crucially important for our strategy of further growth in central and northern Europe,” stated Stefano de Vivo, Chief Commercial Officer of the Ferretti Group. “We have chosen Yacht Consult B.V. as our partner for their considerable experience, know-how and reliability in the luxury goods sector. We are certain that this partnership will increase our market share in continental Europe, an area that has always been strongly attracted to the style, elegance and exclusive design of our brands, the standard bearers of Italian yachting.” The A-Star Group holding is 50% owner of Yacht Consult and owned by Ben Van Loo. He is a successful entrepreneur who has been active in the Real Estate business and leisure industry. Yacht Consult has its headquarters in Mechelen and representative offices in Oostende and Loosdrecht (NL). Yacht Consult will officially present the exclusive dealership agreement with Ferretti Group next October at the company Zoute Events, organizer of the Zoute Grand Prix which takes place in the wonderful city of Knokke (Le Zoute) on the Belgian seacoast. The meeting will be attended by Stefano de Vivo himself, as representative of the Ferretti Group, and Mr. Manu Deceuninck of Yacht Consult B.V.
Horizon Group Thirtieth Anniversary
On a beautiful and sunny day in June, Horizon Group celebrated its 30th anniversary alongside one the company’s major milestones: the Horizon City Marina. Featuring four main entertaining areas – Horizon Plaza, Horizon Wonderland, the Yacht Experience, and the Waterfront Party – the festivities provided a little bit of everything from a food court, amusement rides, and games to a live concert to end the night. Over 3,300 guests, including employees, their families and friends, and business partners, attended this unforgettable event to celebrate Horizon’s 30 years of success. The opening ceremony took place at the Horizon Plaza, where guests counted down to zero with Horizon Group CEO John Lu; when zero was reached, the yachts in the marina blew their horns into the southern Taiwan sky and officially opened the celebration. Guests were then guided by a famous aerobic trainer to undertake the group effort of forming the number 30, and the image was recorded and projected onto the main stage screen by a drone so everyone could see the fun. Strolling to the Horizon Wonderland, guests were treated to an amusement park experience for all ages to enjoy! Thirteen attractions, such as a merry-go-round, kid robots, a surfing machine and more provided plenty of fun and laughter. Additionally, a specialized pool allowed parents and children to experience popular water sports such as kayaking and SUP. At Horizon City Marina, employees’ families and friends were offered the experience of touring five luxury yachts – the RP110, FD85, E62, E56 and E56XO – and getting a feel for the yachting lifestyle. This was a special event for the family and friends of Horizon employees, as it gave them the chance to see first-hand the finished product that comes from all the hard work of their loved ones! As evening approached, music flowed from the Waterfront Party, hinting at the excitement to come. The lights went out and the screen played Horizon’s 30th anniversary video, which documents the company’s journey and history over the past three decades. After thanking all the employees for their dedication, Horizon CEO John Lu, the chairman, James Cheng, and the managers raised their glasses and asked all the guests to share in a toast to the past, present and future for Horizon. The evening swiftly moved into the highly anticipated concert events, where artists and bands, including the highly popular Taiwanese band Wu-Bai & China Blue, took turns rocking the night. Many guests enjoyed the music from on board a yacht, while others took to the grass to dance to their favorite songs. As the concert came to end, the crowd yelled “encore” and even the yachts joined in, blowing their horns to encourage a final tune. An unforgettable time spent in the company and friends, family and coworkers, the Horizon 30th anniversary was a true expression of joy, pride and gratitude - not only for everything the company has accomplished together but also what we will continue achieve. Here’s to the next 30 years!
Princess Yachts Track Back to Profit
After a year marked by intense investment, and buoyed by full order books, Princess Yachts Limited today reports a marked turnaround from previous years. 2015 saw an operating loss (before exceptional costs) of £18.1m on turnover of £201.2m, and now in 2016 the loss has more than halved to £7.0m on turnover of £216.7m, indicating a strong positive turnaround. Having endured a challenging trading environment – in common with other luxury yacht makers – Princess began 2016 by developing an aggressive business strategy and initiating restructuring of its operations at its facilities in Plymouth. These important steps have both delivered business efficiencies and safeguarded employment for more than 2,350 people. In parallel, the launch of 4 new highly successful models has set the stage for a three-year £55m investment programme which will significantly broaden and strengthen the Princess model range. Following record sales at the Cannes, Düsseldorf and Ft. Lauderdale boat shows, orders across the range now exceed an extraordinary £0.5 billion at retail prices. The current year will see a new model launched, on average, every two months, taking Princess into new markets and opportunities. 2016 was the first full year at the helm for the company's Executive Chairman, Antony Sheriff. Previously CEO of McLaren Automotive, Mr Sheriff came to Princess with a strong track record in leading profitable businesses with best-in-class luxury products. Antony Sheriff said: "We are encouraged to see a positive and rapid turnaround. Over the course of 2016 our order book has increased by over 60% from already strong levels, driven by a 25% increase in retail sales rate which has outstripped production. In 2017, these indicators have continued to improve, which is the clearest signal of the strength of our brand and the enthusiasm with which our customers have embraced our new yachts. "Moving forward, with strong shareholder support, we are convinced that our ambitious strategy to aggressively invest in both our new products and our workforce at our historic Plymouth facilities, has already brought significant benefits to the business, with more to come as 2017 is shaping up to be a year that drives us to the next level."
Pursuit New Business Development Manager
Pursuit Boats is pleased to announce that Les Ares has joined the Pursuit Boats sales team as Business Development Manager for South Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean. Les joins Pursuit directly from Lumishore where he served as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Les has eleven years of sales and marketing experience in the boat industry, a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Florida International University and an M.B.A. He has extensive experience in distribution management, training, strategic planning and the implementation of practical initiatives. Les grew up in Miami and is an avid boater with a USCG OUPV (6 pack) Captain’s license. He is also a member of the International Yacht Brokers Association and has completed the Certified National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) installation program. Les will be relocating to the Treasure Coast with his wife and two children. In this new role, Les will be focused on the strategic growth of Pursuit dealers located within his markets of responsibility and the expansion of the Caribbean and Latin American countries. “We are pleased to welcome Les to the team and look forward to his contributions to our dynamic dealer network,” said Mark Taiclet, Director of Sales, Pursuit Boats. “He brings a wealth of sales and marketing knowledge as well as a passion for boating that will continue to foster our working relationship with some of our top ten domestic dealer partners and strengthen our presence in the Caribbean and Latin American markets.”
Riva Private Deck at Mykonos
Ekka Yachts, exclusive dealer for Ferretti Yachts, Riva Pershing, Itama, and Mochi Craft brands in Greece, celebrated together with Ferretti Group the opening of the Riva Private Deck, at the illustrious Nammos Mykonos, at Psarou Beach, in the heart of the Mediterranean. In an unprecedented collaboration, Ekka Yachts and Ferretti Group have created an elite hub for yacht and superyacht Owners in the Aegean Sea. The Riva Private Deck, an exclusive destination space located within Nammos Beach’s newly-launched ‘’Cabana Concept’’ features an office space, a resident team, lounge and bar, all located just a stone’s throw from the Nammos dock, and perfectly sheltered from the Meltemi: undoubtedly one of the world yachting scene’s most desired destinations. On Saturday, June 24th, Ekka Yachts and Ferretti Group hosted the official inauguration of the Riva Private Deck by welcoming over 200 invitees from all over the world to its new premises for a truly special evening. More than 20 yachts from all the Mediterranean representing the Ferretti Yachts, Pershing, Riva and Custom Line brands were moored in front of the beach, enhancing with their unique beauty the breath-taking sunset of Mykonos. With customised cocktails, exquisite canapés and a specially assembled oyster bar on the beach, guests had the chance to enjoy Nammos’ renowned culinary excellence and impeccable service whilst admiring the crystal waters and arriving yachts. From the beginning of the 2017 summer season until the end of October, Ekka’s dedicated resident team at the Riva Private Deck is available to offer clients a wide variety of services, including sales of new and used yachts, official Riva Boutique accessories, jet tenders and water-toys, technical support, and proposals on its crewed charter motor-yachts. Visitors of the Riva Private Deck will have the chance to enjoy the true Mykonos experience, either through the adjoining exclusive cabanas with private outdoor jacuzzi, or by dining at the world-renowned “Nammos Restaurant by the Sea”.
Sea Ray Joins the NMMA Celebrating Outdoors
On Tuesday, July 18, Sea Ray participated in the Made in America Outdoor Recreation Media Event, joining the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke, Members of Congress and members of the Outdoor Recreation Industry Roundtable (ORIR) for a discussion of how public-private partnerships can improve visitor experiences on public lands and waters. NMMA President Thom Dammrich, an ORIR member, opened the meeting by introducing almost 30 opportunities for immediate private investment on public lands totaling more than $80 million, just the first wave of potentially thousands more opportunities that will emerge over the next few months if changes can be made to welcome more private investment to enhance recreational experiences on public lands. Sea Ray was one of only three marine manufacturers chosen to attend and have a boat on display. “We’re honored to have been invited to participate in this event,” said Scott Ward, president and general manager of Sea Ray Sport Yachts and Yachts. “As a leading manufacturer of American-made boats, Sea Ray is committed to championing our country’s natural resources and enabling boaters to enjoy them to the fullest. Together with our dedicated dealer network, our fellow manufacturers and organizations like the NMMA, we’re proud to champion boating as one of the best ways to get outdoors.” The outdoor recreation industry generates $887 billion in direct spending and supports 7.6 million jobs across all 50 states. In recreational boating alone, there are an estimated 38,400 manufacturing jobs that drive 472,000 marine industry jobs. Recreational boating produces $36 billion in expenditures each year through an estimated 35,000 small businesses. The meeting was followed by a showcase of American-made outdoor recreation equipment, held at Simón Bolivar Park across from the Department of Interior as part of “Made in America Week” in D.C. Local dealership Prince William Marine Sales, a Certified Brunswick Platinum Master Dealer and Top 100 Marine Industry Hall of Fame Dealer, provided a Sea Ray SPX 210 for the display. The sport boat, one of several models in the popular and accessible SPX series, was manufactured at Sea Ray’s Tellico Plant in Vonore, Tennessee. “Outdoor recreation is a vital contributor to the economic well-being of America and the healthful well-being of everyone who lives and plays here,” said Brad Anderson, president and general manager of Sea Ray Sport Boats and Sport Cruisers. “Sea Ray is proud to produce boats, like the SPX 210, that empower enjoyment of the outdoors while creating jobs and opportunities for our community and our nation.”
Uniesse Marine Group Aquires Assets of Uniesse Marine Spa
Uniesse Marine Group, LLC, a Miami-based luxury motor yacht company, announced the acquisition of the assets of Uniesse Marine S.P.A. of Italy. Terms of the transaction are not disclosed. Uniesse is at the upper echelon of the world’s leading semi-custom luxury motor yacht brands, with more than 500 yachts sold around the world for over a quarter-century. The acquisition was led by Miami based SMB Investor, David Schwedel. The company will be operated by both David Schwedel and Rafael Barca. “Uniesse is known throughout the world as a preeminent semi-custom luxury motor yacht brand,” said David Schwedel, Executive Director. “We are excited to present a newly designed line of luxury motor yachts from 49’ – 115’.” Both Barca and Schwedel have hands-on experience with Uniesse for more than 15 years, and more than 75 years of combined experience in the marine industry. Rafael Barca originally introduced the Uniesse line to the United States in 1994, and was responsible for delivering more than 200 Uniesse motor yachts during that time. “I only know of perhaps one or two other brands that can compare to Uniesse in terms of craftsmanship and quality,” said Mr. Barca, President for Uniesse Marine Group, LLC. “Uniesse will continue to be designed in America, and manufactured in Italy under our direction.” The company is in the process of redesigning the entire Uniesse line of motor yachts. “We are excited to introduce new models in the coming years, with our first `reveal’ to come in time for the 2019 Boat Show season,” said Barca. “We have streamlined operations, consolidated the manufacturing process, and are implementing technology applications which will dramatically enhance the owner/operator experience,” said Mr. Schwedel. “Customer service will be completely revamped as our top priority going forward.”
Viking at Blue Marlin Grand Championship
It was a wild week in the Gulf. A fleet of 63 of sportfishing's top battlewagons headed out last Thursday from The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama, all with their eye on the prize. The Viking 68 Breathe Easy, last year's Gulf Coast Triple Crown Champion, finished in 2nd Place Overall, without weighing a billfish. Captain Patrick Ivie, owner Matt McDonald and the team scored four blue marlin releases, along with a 143.4-pound yellowfin tuna, to earn a six-figure check. Another previous Triple Crown Champion, Done Deal (left), finished second in releases with three blues to its credit, thanks to the performance of the Top Lady Angler, Katie Gonsoulin, daughter of owner Jon Gonsoulin. Captain Jason Buck runs this Viking 70. Quick Time (right), a Viking 70 run by Captain Shelby Johnson, was the 3rd Place Release Team. Jason Benton, owner of Don't Blink, a Viking 56 run by Captain Skip McAllister, was the top rod in the tuna division with a 173.6-pound yellow fin. Other boats earning tuna payouts include the Viking 70 Aldente, Viking 58 Rising Sons and Viking 76 Team Supreme.
Viking at Offshore Showdown
Hosted by South Jersey Tournaments and South Jersey Yacht Sales at the beautiful Canyon Club Resort, the inaugural Offshore Showdown was a roaring success despite Mother Nature being a bit temperamental. The teams fished two days and made great use of the pool party barbecue lay day. The Viking 61 Reelin Feelin held center stage under the big top at the awards dinner. The boat claimed Most Points Overall, 2nd Place White Marlin Points and 3rd Place Tuna Points. Reelin Feelin angler Mike Hudson took Most Points White Marlin while Sean Singley weighed in the heaviest tuna with a 63-pound fish. Most Points Tuna and 3rd Place Overall Points went to the Viking 70 Krazy Salt's. Polarizer, a Viking 55, finished 2nd Place Tuna Points.
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