-pic of the month- Yachting Developments 3D Printer Impressive Results
Alia Yachts New Sheds and Project Updates
Alia Yachts on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast has released the first photographs of its new construction facility in the Antalya Free Trade Zone. The new facility covers 16,000 sqm and includes five construction halls as well as storage areas and dedicated workshops. Measuring 90 metres in length and 22 metres in height, the new sheds mean the shipyard can now build larger yachts entirely under cover. “The new facility has also allowed us to consolidate and streamline a lot of processes that were spread out before,” says Gökhan Çelik, founder and President of Alia Yachts. “This means we’ve been able to cut time and costs while increasing capacity and efficiency, which are all advantages that can be passed on to our clients.” As with shipyards throughout Europe, Alia Yachts has experienced some slow-down in production due to the coronavirus pandemic, but the lockdown in Turkey was much less severe than in other countries and most manufacturing industries closed only at the weekends. “Naturally, we have social distancing protocols in place and we’re being vigilant to protect the health of our workers,” says Çelik. “The main difficulties resulted from a ban on intercity travel, which made it difficult for subcontractors to move around, and there were some interruptions in the supply chain. But most of our processes are done in-house, so we experienced only minor delays and we’re now making up for lost time.” Alia Yachts has a busy summer approaching after the recent turning of the hull of its 36-metre shadow vessel slated for delivery in 2021. Once complete it will support Project Phi, the mothership currently in build at Royal Huisman in the Netherlands. In June, the shipyard will join the hull and superstructure of Al Waab II, a 55-metre steel and aluminium motoryacht with interior, exterior and naval architecture by Dutch design studio Vripack. “This is a hugely exciting project, but also a challenging one as we’re working to a tight build schedule of just 24 months,” says Çelik. “Despite interruptions caused by coronavirus, however, construction is on track and we should wrap up the hotworks in another couple of weeks.” Also this summer, the shipyard is due to join the hull and superstructure of Nozomi II, a 32.40-metre sistership to 30.5-metre Virgen del Mar VI (formerly Project Nozomi), being built up spec. “I can also reveal that we are in the final phase of negotiations for more than one 40-metre-plus project and we hope to be able to release more information shortly,” concludes Çelik.
Azimut with NASA Patent
Azimut Yachts, which has always closely monitored the results of research into advanced technology to offer owners the very best in terms of comfort, quality of materials and onboard safety, will introduce an innovative system called MMVS (Marine Mechanical Ventilation System) on many of the Shipyard’s new yachts. Based on a Nasa patent and originally developed for use on aerospace missions to sanitize the air on board, the first yacht fitted with MMVS will be the Magellano 25 Metri, a remarkable model from the Shipyard that will make its debut in September at the Cannes Yachting Festival. Produced by Italian company BCool Engineering, which specialises in the production and marketing of onboard thermal comfort and power products, MMVS is a centralised system split across the two decks, ensuring a complete change of air every hour. The air inside the boat is therefore always at the chosen temperature, as well as being continuously purified by safe, effective and comprehensive sanitation of the air conditioning ducts, surfaces and technical components like the fan coils. The end result is fresh, clean, sanitized air, at a constant conditioned temperature, for guests to breathe on board. Based on PCO™ (Photocatalytic Oxidation) technology, the system imitates and reproduces the process that takes place in nature, exploiting the combined action of the rays produced by a special UV lamp and a catalytic structure, without affecting the yacht’s power and consumption. Azimut Yachts, the first company in the industry to offer this system on new models, has decided to introduce this technology in response to an increasingly topical and widespread need. The quality of the air we breathe has an objective and material impact on the quality of our lives. And unlike atmospheric pollution, which has been a focus of attention for many years now, the need to look in more detail at pollution in interior environments has emerged only more recently, not least because of the increasing amount of alarming scientific evidence to emerge about the health impacts of this phenomenon. Which is why, perfectly attuned to the times, Azimut Yachts is responding in this way to a growing need that reflects a new increasingly healthy and natural lifestyle. This innovative system joins a long list of other solutions that the Shipyard has introduced ahead of the competition – from gyroscopic stabilizers to joystick manoeuvring systems, and from IPS propulsion and integrated control and monitoring systems through to automatic trim adjustment – confirming its ability to anticipate customers’ needs and desires, based on a close relationship and ongoing dialogue.
Azimut Benetti Group Wins Two Robb Reports
Azimut|Benetti confirms its role as a symbol of ‘Made in Italy’ excellence across the world as the famous magazine Robb Report USA chooses two new yachts built by the Group for its “Best of the Best” award in two highly coveted and very different categories. “Luminosity”, a 107-meter giga yacht from Benetti with hybrid propulsion, places first in its category, while Verve 47 by Azimut Yachts, which made its successful debut at the Miami Yacht Show last February, climbs to the top step of the day cruiser podium. These two awards demonstrate once again the construction quality and capabilities of Azimut|Benetti, the only Group in the world able to offer owners such a wide-ranging and comprehensive fleet.
Azimut Yachts Virtual Lounge and E-Boat Show
Azimut Yachts confirms its pioneering role in the world of yachting and, with the online sale of an Azimut S6, seals the success of its first e-boat show, held from May 27 to 30 in the brand’s Virtual Lounge. This digital container packed with videos, technical data sheets and in-depth articles has been created specifically to maintain a solid bond with owners in an unprecedented moment in history when direct contact is difficult if not impossible. In precisely one month since its debut, the Virtual Lounge has attracted over 11,000 visitors, 50% connecting from Europe, 35% from the Americas and 15% from the Middle and Far East. These results are particularly interesting when we remember that the average number of visitors reported by the brand at leading international boat shows is around 3,000. The success of the initiative is confirmed not only by the fact that visitors spend on average more than four minutes in the area, but most importantly by the outcome of the brand’s first e-boat show, during which several negotiations started before the lockdown were completed, together with the first 100% online sale in Azimut Yachts’ history. Previously featured in a Times Square installation, where in little more than a week it was admired and photographed by over 700,000 visitors, the S6 confirms the extraordinary appeal of its innate power, underscored by the extensive use of carbon fiber, three Volvo Penta IPS700 propulsion units, and the unmistakable charm of lean, elegant lines. Visitors to the e-boat show received real time assistance from the brand’s team of Sales Managers during Live Chat sessions, with one-to-one web meetings organised to help close sales. The Virtual Lounge has therefore achieved what it set out to do, acting as a valuable and useful digital support tool. And it has been such a success that the shipyard has decided to leave it online and continue adding new content, while the e-boat show initiative has proved not only to be a valid alternative until boat shows return in their traditional format, but also an interesting tool for organising sales sessions addressed to specific markets and types of yacht.
De Antonio Now in America
Setting the nautical trend of the future, De Antonio Yachts are intelligently designed boats that appeal to even the most discerning individuals. Every detail has been carefully thought-out with balanced lines and finishes of the highest quality. Hidden outboard engines enhance the boat’s performance, and the innovative design hides them so you can benefit from a larger and much quieter stern platform. With generous and comfortable deck space and a variety of different interior layout configurations, the boats are also given a unique style and personality. Born from the passion for the sea, De Antonio Yachts is a brand aimed for demanding boat owners looking for something new and different that exceeds their expectations. Winning the prestigious 2019 European Powerboat of the Year award in the “over 45 feet” category, De Antonio Yachts are powerful boats capable of up to 46 knots and can be tailored to fit your boating lifestyle almost entirely. With more than 200 new boat models appearing annually in the motorboat market, the jury of the European Powerboat of the Year awards consists of eight leading European motorboat magazines from Switzerland, Spain, France, Italy, Norway, the Netherlands, Austria and Germany, making the awards resemble somewhat of the Oscar’s of Water Sports.
Fairline New Dealer in Poland
Luxury British boatbuilder, Fairline Yachts, announces the appointment of Patrick Marine as its exclusive dealer for Poland. Founded in 2008, Patrick Marine is a full-service luxury yacht dealership based in Warsaw, Poland. With an impressive portfolio of premium brands, Fairline joins Sanlorenzo, Frauscher, Bluegame, Axopar and Pirelli Tecnorib on an exclusive basis. Patryk Uznanski, CEO and Founder of Patrick Marine, comments, “The brand is a natural fit with our offering. With an impressive range of boats especially within the 45’-55’ market, Fairline provides an exciting opportunity for us. I am also looking forward to welcoming the highly acclaimed Squadron 68 as this will complement the larger Sanlorenzo offering we have. We look forward to growing Fairline’s presence in Poland.” Peter McNulty, Chief Operating Officer at Fairline Yachts, adds, “The appointment of Patrick Marine is a real coup for us. With the team’s extensive experience and impressive levels of customer service, alongside the dealership’s current offering, we are confident this will be a successful partnership and look forward to becoming more prominent in this territory.”
Gulf Craft Works in New Normal
Gulf Craft embrace the "new normal", and are looking at advancing its operations while adopting new technology that fits a new strategy amid this pandemic. Gulf Craft is heading towards the completion of multiple projects such as the Majesty 100, Nomad 95 SUV, Oryx 379 and more. Additionally, and are in negotiations with multiple clients for new projects such as the Majesty 175, Majesty 140 and Majesty 120.
Jarrett Bay Achieves Big at Big Rock
Congratulations to hull 23, Sea Striker for winning second place in the 62nd Annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament and taking home over $1 million! Pretty work to the crew on hull 11, Bill Collector for bringing a 453.7-pound blue marlin to the scales. An impressive haul, but unfortunately not heavy enough to shake up the leader board. Although not a Jarrett Bay team, we are ecstatic for Pelagic Hunter Sportfishing for winning the Big Rock with a 495.2 pound blue aboard their 35 Contender entered in the Outboard Level.
Johnson Shipyard Update
Taiwanese yacht manufacturer, Johnson Yachts, last year celebrated its 30-year anniversary as a luxury yacht builder, and while 2020 has not panned out the way anyone expected, the shipyard does not intend for its 31st year to be delayed by the Coronavirus. With a new Johnson 80 ready to be shipped to the United States, two hulls currently under construction, the Johnson 70 and Johnson 115, the Taiwanese shipyard is confidently awaiting the evolution of the world health situation. Taiwan has had around 441 cases of which only seven deaths (the island counts 23Milion habits). The secret of Taiwan’s success lies in the painful memories of the 2002 outbreak of the SARS; also caused by a type of coronavirus, the disease was a direct predecessor of COVID-19. Taiwan has been able to draw from its experience developing a quicker and more effective response by the government. “Currently we are trying to maintain our production line, as Taiwan was not influenced so much by Coronavirus. However our main market is the United States, one of the most affected area, that’s why we are facing some troubles in delivery and marketing planing due to cancelled events and other international business and operational restrictions that has been in place during this Pandemics” began Leah Huang, Marketing Director, Johnson Yachts. “Anyway we are taking advantage of the current situation by investing in new improvements, technologies and employee training." The latter has proven a prudent investment for many shipyards, in order to ensure the abilities and facilities are in place as capacity returns to normal. “In terms of marketing and sales, we keep in touch with our dealers and clients, in order to understand their local situation and satisfy their needs,” Huang added, understanding that the impacts of this virus vary from business to business, but that communication is imperative for clients to feel well looked after. That's why Johnson has started developed virtual tours, especially for new products like their flagship, the Johnson 115. “Virtual tours and webinars are a good way to promote yachts; they are able to catch the attention and generate interest around the product. In addition, due to the current situation, virtual tours look like the only way to show your brand, the work behind each model and to remind people how excellent products are. Yachts are luxury goods and quality workmanship products and nothing will be able to substitute a visit onboard, however after pandemic, we still can use this instrument to attract clients or just to tempt them to make a reservation for a step aboard. I would say virtual yacht tours are an online media method to help offline sales” stated Huang. Regarding the ways in which Johnson Yachts has adapted its operation to the onset of new regulations as a result of COVID-19, Huang explained that the uniform and health awareness has understandably changed. “This has been achieved by checking employees’ temperature and ensuring everyone wears a face mask while working.” with these adjustments made, the shipyard is working as normal. At present Johnson Yachts does not have any issues in terms of the build schedule and anticipates a surge in demand within the superyacht industry once the situation worldwide has calmed. “I'm sure that when the COVID-19 situation begins to slow down, people will be more than motivated to go out boating after many months of isolation, therefore, the demand should increase,” Huang commented.
Marlow Covid-19 Update
As the situation surrounding the Coronavirus is evolving daily, Marlow Marine are striving to create a healthy and clean environment to protect our staff and customers. Marlow Marine is closely monitoring Covid-19 and following the applicable suggested CDC Guidelines. We are taking temperatures at the entrance of our gate and requesting masks to be worn by all visitors and staff who enter the property. We have also placed sanitation stations throughout our facility. Additionally Marlow has adopted safe distancing guidelines for personnel and guests.
Moonen New Management
Moonen Yachts, are pleased to announce a new senior management team at their Dutch based shipyard Moonen Yachts. Today’s announcement, which is effective immediately, is in line with the company’s strategy to grow the company and expand the number of yachts in build. To strengthen the management and keep pace with the growth in production and the market, Johan Dubbelman is appointed Commercial Director, Nicky van Zon Technical Director and Marianne Hendriks is in charge of the company as Managing Director. The decision comes at a time, where the company grows on a global scale, and strong strategic leadership will be imperative. With currently two yachts in build and a third one on the drawing board, the yard is growing and has the ability and ambition to expand further. To put emphasis on the growth of the company, it is evident to maximise focus. Therefore, the new team, under guidance of Managing Director Marianne Hendriks, will focus on Sales, Marketing & Business Development by Johan Dubbelman, whilst Nicky van Zon will concentrate on Engineering, Projects and Production. “By putting every individual in their strongest position, the new management will be efficient, and decisive for the future”, comments Director and Shareholder Matthew Baxter. “Our business continues to be challenging and extremely promising. Since our start, Louise and I have invested a lot in building yachts on speculation, we are now starting to see amazing results as we notice a growing demand for semi-custom yachts with a short delivery time. Therefore, it is of utmost importance for Moonen Yachts to have a strong, energetic and integrated management team, and I believe that with this new team, we are well prepared to build on the current foundation and strengthen our unique worldwide position in the superyacht market."
Overmarine Mangusta New Team Member
Overmarine Group keeps growing and strengthens its Sales Department with the appointment of a new Sales Manager, Nicolò Strocco, who will enrich the team with the experience gained in a leading Italian Boat Building Company and over the years spent in the United States, working in the North and Central American markets. “We are sure Nicolò will bring a major contribution to the ongoing process of strengthening Overmarine Group and the Mangusta brand on the various markets”, says Overmarine Group’s CEO Maurizio Balducci. Strocco will be working with Francesca Ragnetti at the Viareggio headquarters, supporting from there Overmarine Group’s sales network, with its branch offices in Golfe-Juan, on the Cote d’Azur, and in Miami, USA, in all sales activities involving the entire Mangusta product range. This includes three lines: the Mangusta Maxi Open yachts, featuring fast and comfortable yachts, a segment in which Overmarine Group is a leader; the Mangusta Oceano stylish, modern long-range ships, characterised by an aft beach club, an infinity pool located forward, and flawlessly balanced interiors and exteriors; and the Mangusta GranSport fast displacement yachts, featuring long-range ships delivering the best performances when cruising in the displacement mode, but also capable of reaching top speeds of 25/30 knots. The three lines of ships, each one with its own peculiarities, share the same values of excellence, performance, technical quality, and a painstaking care for details, which belong to the Mangusta DNA, and are always focused on the clients and their desires. The entry level in the Mangusta GranSport line, the Mangusta GranSport 33, will be launched in a few weeks, while the other two models in this line, the 54-metre flagship, and the 45-metre version, will follow shortly.
Pardo Aquires VanDutch
Cantiere del Pardo is proud to announce the acquisition of VanDutch, the prestigious Dutch brand of motorboats renowned for its strong lifestyle message and consolidated positioning overseas. “This exciting acquisition represents a prestigious achievement for both brands, which together can now create a unique luxury yachting experience and take the market to new levels in terms of lifestyle, design, quality and performance,” says Fabio Planamente, CEO of Cantiere del Pardo. All VanDutch models will be produced at the Cantiere del Pardo headquarters in Forlì, where production is being stepped up. The acquisition represents an opportunity for unmatched synergy in terms of production capacity and strategic development, which will enhance and strengthen the two brand identities and competitiveness by launching new challenges on the market. The construction history of the Cantiere del Pardo speaks for itself with almost 50 years of experience in building elegant, high-performance boats that are recognized around the world for their attention to detail, quality materials and the skill of the craftsmen and women who create them. “The acquisition means that Cantiere del Pardo, alongside VanDutch and Pardo Yachts, assumes a dominant position in the world of luxury boatbuilding,” adds Luigi Servidati, Chairman of Cantiere del Pardo. “The strength of the Dutch brand will be further enhanced by the know-how, experience and Made-in-Italy pedigree of Cantiere del Pardo.” Work at the Forlì shipyard will begin immediately with the planning and realization of new products: three new models are expected to be launched in 2021.
Riva Consolidates Russia Presence
Riva, the iconic brand in international yachting for over 178 years, has signed a new dealership agreement with Burevestnik Group to handle its operations on the Russian market on an exclusive basis. Founded in 1993, Burevestnik Group is the largest and most important yacht dealer in Russia. The holding includes more than fifteen companies, specialising primarily in the following fields: exclusive distributor of boats built by leading premium brands, sale of mega and super yachts; maritime transport; customer service; support and logistics. The company also has six ports with very exclusive yachting clubs, strategically located across Russia from Saint Petersburg to Sochi, including offices at Porto Montenegro Marina. The most prestigious brands in yachting have chosen to work with Burevestnik Group over the years, and now Riva will also benefit from its expertise to boost its presence across Russia while continuing to assure its customers and owners levels of excellence in its vast range of services and support. “Burevestnik Group is the ideal partner for us to continue to build on the success and prestige that Riva enjoys in the Russian market, where we can count on a consolidated group of owners and fans of our brand” commented Stefano de Vivo, Chief Commercial Officer at Ferretti Group. “This agreement is yet another indicator of the energy and thirst for growth that drives the Group, now that all our production sites are fully operational and the boating season is upon us”.
Riviera Celebrates Twentieth Sports Motor Yacht
The 72 and 68 Sports Motor Yachts, the flagships of the luxurious Riviera collection, have reached a significant milestone in production with the completion of Hull 20 following the new designs being launched in 2018. Sports Motor Yachts, now cruising some of the world’s most exotic waters, have received accolades from owners and the marine industry by setting the standard that defines 40 years of evolution by Riviera, Australia’s largest luxury motor yacht builder. Since their launch, Riviera 72 and 68 SMYs are now cruising the waters of Australia, New Zealand, The Caribbean, Vanuatu, Indonesia, The Mediterranean and Thailand, and further yachts are now being completed for the United States. Alberlee, the 20th Sports Motor Yacht, is heading to Riviera dealer representative R Marine Perth for delivery to new owner Mike Albert, a Singapore-based director of Apple Inc’s customer care for the Asia Pacific region. Mike and his wife Annie plan to locate their Riviera 72 SMY in Mike’s hometown of Perth after first cruising and exploring the east coast of Australia with family and friends. Riviera spent two years developing the 68 and 72 SMY, which included highly experienced Riviera owners from around the world providing valued insight and feed back regarding what they wished for in their ultimate luxury motor yacht. Their dream was a blue-water yacht that combines impressive speed, considerable sport fishing and other water sports capabilities with the the confidence and safety of high bulwark side decks, a foredeck entertainment centre, fully enclosed flybridge with internal stairs, a covered mezzanine dining area, a crew cabin with day head off the mezzanine and ultra-luxurious interiors. Riviera has followed the blue-water journeys of several 72 SMY owners who have put the engineering, fuel efficiency, technology and luxury afforded by this outstanding motor yacht to the test crossing seas and oceans.
Sea Ray Working with Amy
Each Saturdays of June 2020, Sea Ray is doing a virtual morning fitness session with Amy, personal trainer and owner of Amy’s Beach Fitness in Long Beach, Indiana. Amy will be leading a series of body weight workouts live on Facebook that target different body zones each Saturday. Perfect for all skill levels, Amy’s body weight sessions work and tone your muscles while improving flexibility and balance. Follow along at your own pace for a heart-pumping workout from the comfort of your home with no equipment needed.
Sunreef Names Nico Rosberg Brand Ambassador
Sustainability entrepreneur and Formula 1 World Champion Nico Rosberg becomes a Sunreef Yachts Brand Ambassador on World Oceans Day June 8th 2020. The agreement was signed by both parties, with Sunreef Yachts represented by company Founder and President Francis Lapp. The ambassadorship follows Nico Rosberg’s participation in the Sunreef Yachts Eco Virtual Press Conference on Earth Day 2020. Following a long and successful career in racing, crowned with the Formula 1 World Championship title in 2016, Nico Rosberg has been actively involved in various inspiring initiatives in the field of sustainability and e-mobility.
Sunreef Custom for Rafael Nadal Arrives in Mallorca
Launched last month at the Sunreef Yachts shipyard in Gdansk, Poland, the 80 Sunreef Power catamaran was officially handed over to her owner Rafael Nadal in his hometown in Mallorca, in the first week of June. One of the world's top tennis players, Rafael Nadal, readily shares his passion for yachting, a love of which he has had since childhood. Before commissioning the 80 Sunreef Power, Rafael Nadal and his family spent their holidays chartering a Sunreef Yachts’ sailing catamaran. This is an unforgettable event for Sunreef shipyard to hand over the yacht to such an amazing person and athlete as Rafael Nadal. The team in Gdańsk made every effort to create the yacht Rafa and his wife Maria dreamed of.
Sunreef Lounge Reopens
Sunreef exclusive lounge in Porto Montenegro officially reopens in July after an extended break. Once again, the Sunreef Yachts Lounge will treat guests to a unique lifestyle experience in the amazing setting of the Porto Montenegro Marina. Pairing comfort and style, the lounge is the perfect spot to socialize over a morning espresso or an evening cocktail from the lounge’s refined menu. The Sunreef Yachts Lounge also offers the best in yacht management and sale. Halfway between a showroom and upscale bar it mixes business and pleasure in perfect proportions.
Viking at Mississipi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic
Born2Run, a Viking 72, released a record 10 blue marlin to claim Top Release honors. Owner Dana Foster was on the rod for eight of those releases, while Robert Bonifay and Doug Franklin added one apiece. Dana said, "Normally four or five releases will win it but we just kept plugging away." Chris Ferrara's Viking 76 Reel Fire was 2nd Place in the release standings with eight blues. Reel Fire angler Nathan Neames weighed a 163.6-pound tuna good for 3rd Place. Breathe Easy, Matt McDonald's Viking 72, released seven blues to take 3rd Place in that category. Angler Chris Deroche on Gray Mako, a Viking 45, topped the tuna field with a 166.2-pound yellowfin. The 57-boat fleet set a new Gulf of Mexico record with an incredible 101 billfish released during just two and a half days of fishing. "It was an epic showcase of big-game fishing," said Tournament Director Bobby Carter.
Viking at Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic
Fleur de Lis, a Viking 72 with captain Scooter Porto at the helm, took the top team in the release division at the recent Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic. Michael Freeman released two blues while Toby Broussard and Berry Nagin each released one for the win. They also claimed 2nd Place Crew. Ritchie Prince, fishing on the Viking 48 Can't Deny It, weighed the 2nd Place Wahoo at 51.7 pounds. The Viking 48 Pearl, the last boat to weigh in, made the leaderboard with the 3rd Place Dolphin.
Viking at Louisiana Gulf Coast Billfish Classic
Fished simultaneously with the Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic, the Louisiana Gulf Coast Billfish Classic saw It Just Takes Time's Nick Pratt on the top of the leaderboard again. His 570.2-pound, 112" blue topped the Heaviest Blue Marlin category for a second time in the same weekend. Reel Fire, a Viking 76, claimed 2nd Place in the tuna category with a 163.6-pound fish.
Viking at 62nd Big Rock
The 62md Annual Big Rock Blue Marline Tournament was nothing short of incredible. A week of excitement, competition and camaraderie surrounded the 2020 event. Amongst the fleet of 205 boats, Don Mills' Viking 72 Sea I Sea released four blue marlin to claim the 2nd spot in the release category. The tournament racked up a total of 185 releases translating to a 93% release rate.
Wajer Approved in High Demand
Wajer Approved fleet is in high demand. Seeing the current outlook on summer plans, many people are looking to own their own boat. And as Wajer Approved models are available immediately, the Dutch boat builder was able to deliver four beautiful Approved models to their new proud owners in the last few weeks. Ready to go and enjoy a splendid summer on their Wajer. The good news is, that Wajer has managed to obtain a stunning pre-owned Wajer 38 and an eye-catching Wajer 38 S.
Yachting Developments 3D Printer Developing Impressive Results
One of Yachting Developments key selling points is its in-house capabilities and versatile offering across a broad number of fields including marine, architectural, residential and movie set work. The yard’s specialist composite team is complemented by its other dedicated divisions including the upholstery team and, most recently, the in-house 3D printing department. 3D printing represents an advanced construction method that has allowed the Yachting Developments team to blend traditional skills with modern, cutting-edge technology, while also delivering time and cost saving benefits across the build process. With versatile application options, Yachting Developments has been able to use its 3D printing technologies on a wide range of projects. “Over the past three years we have developed and invested in our printing and moulding capabilities, including our advanced 3D printing set up,” says Ian Cook, Managing Director of Yachting Developments. “To date we have made use of this 3D printing technology on architectural and movie set projects and are excited to now be putting it to use in the marine field as well.” The Yachting Developments 3D printing division was recently put to work in a marine setting when creating the tooling for the all-new AC9F model, the proposed boat for the upcoming Youth America’s Cup that is due to be hosted in Auckland as part of the 36th America’s Cup. “The creation of the first boat and its appendages has been a good blend of traditional boat building and leading edge printing and moulding,” says Cook. “The use of 3D printing allowed the prototype to be built without the need for plugs, which helped to speed up the build time and improved cost and accuracy for the short production run.” The first AC9F model – christened Kõtare [meaning kingfisher in Maori] – was completed by Yachting Developments in March 2020, with initial sea trials currently underway. First performance reports are showing impressive results, and a full report on sea trials of Kõtare will be released in the coming weeks. With the AC9F demonstrating the possibilities of 3D printing technology in yacht construction, its use on future marine projects is an exciting option for Yachting Developments and its clients.
Yachting Developments Sea Trials Youth Americas Cup Boat
A much anticipated aspect of the 36th America’s Cup, set to be held in Auckland, New Zealand in 2021, is the Youth America’s Cup which already has more than 15 teams from around the world confirmed to take part. The event will be raced on a new carbon foiling mono-hull – the AC9F – designed by the Yachting Developments design team led by Bob Graham. A fleet of AC9F models is set to be built at the Yachting Developments yard, which will allow for simultaneous match racing between participating teams. This first AC9F model was completed by Yachting Developments in March 2020 and christened Kōtare, meaning ‘Kingfisher’ in Maori. Sea trials on Kōtare were delayed due to New Zealand’s nationwide lockdown, but initial tow testing of the first model has taken place and all involved were delighted with how this prototype AC9F performed in its first tests, with its performance hinting at how thrilling the Youth America’s Cup is set to be.
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