September 5, 2021

New Model: Sunseeker 88 Yacht

Sunseeker 88 Yacht has new to the brand, exterior lines and a sleek flybridge hardtop roof with an optional central opening canopy. Powered by twin MTU 1950hp as standard, she accommodates eight guests and four crew in complete luxury and comfort reaching speeds of up to 28 knots. The 88 Yacht features Sunseeker’s industry-leading ‘Beach Club’ accessed by dual teak staircases featuring recessed LED lighting. The ‘Beach Club’ transforms the area into a private outdoor sanctuary complete with an innovative X-Tend sunbed that converts to face aft at water level or when raised forward into the cockpit. Set beneath is an overhead rain shower and plentiful stowage, including dedicated lockers for two SeaBobs with charging points. The extended bathing platform is perfect for carrying a tender with an optional flybridge crane for a jet ski or similar.  The vast flybridge on the 88 Yacht enjoys a superb layout with beautifully appointed furniture on a spacious aft deck and the option of an infinity spa bath with a sun pad. It’s a brilliant space for entertaining with ample places to sit and relax thanks to companion seating adjacent to the helm and extended U-shaped seating opposite a feature wet bar with ice maker, grill and two fridges or optional drawer-refrigeration. There is also the option for fixed stools to turn this into a social bar area. The teak foredeck features another private, social space with a Portuguese bridge, a large sunbathing area and comfortable lounge seating complemented by premium teak side decks as standard. The main deck is nothing short of spectacular. Inside, there is a large forward galley that maximises an open-plan entertainment space. Owners and crew can enjoy making use of ample practical storage space, as well as a dedicated fixed breakfast bar unit with two stools, creating an additional informal dining area. The galley has a full-height premium fridge freezer and dishwasher as standard with space for wine coolers.  There is also the ability to fully close off the galley, allowing the crew to move around the yacht unnoticed with access from the lower helm on the starboard side that gives owners the chance to enjoy complete privacy. The interior exudes luxury and has clever design cues throughout that make the yacht stand out, including diagonal stainless detailing on cabinetry and doors. The layering of textural elements and the mix of furnishings and fabrics feels timeless with a modern twist with a range of colours and finishes available. Sunseeker has located the grand master stateroom central to the yacht, making the most of her substantial beam to maximise this private space. The master stateroom, enjoys a spacious dressing area with a double wardrobe and adjacent in the en suite featuring exquisite surfaces throughout are double sinks, an overhead rain shower, and plentiful stowage.
Technical Data:
LOA - 26.38 m (86.7ft)
Beam - 6.47 m
Draft - 1.95 m
Displacement - 75400 kg medium load
Fuel Capacity - 11000 l
Water Capacity - 1500 l
Accommodation - eight guests in four cabins, four crew in two cabins
Engines - 2 x MTU 10V2000 1950hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - 28 knots 12 knots economic cruise
Range - 1300 nm at 12 knots

September 4, 2021

Project: Michael Rybovich 94 Sportfisherman

Michael Rybovich is currently building a 94 Sportfisherman, an enclosed bridge super sportfish yacht of 28 meters in length.  Sixth and largest build of the new Michael Rybovich and Sons era, this 94 Sportfisherman project was made all in house, and feature a three guest cabin interior sleeping seven, and two crew cabins forward sleeping four.  The owners midship stateroom which sleeps three with a single berth to port side, features an impressive size.  A nice detail of the Rybovich 94 Sportfisherman will also be a day-head to port side of the main deck, just to the left of the patio door.  Rybovich 94 Sportfisherman is to be powered by twin MTU 2600hp. 

September 3, 2021

New Launch: Alia 55m

Alia has launched a new 55-metre.  Titled Al Waab II, this new Alia 55m is the first superyacht to be launched from the new two thousand ton capacity ship lift, part of a wider investment by the Antalya Free Zone into its yacht building infrastructure that includes bigger cranes and travel lifts as well as new hangars for superyacht construction and refit projects.  Notwithstanding the many challenges faced by Alia and other shipyards during the Covid-19 pandemic, the launch took place only a few weeks behind the original build schedule.  Alia 55m remains below the 500GT threshold by emphasizing the hull form and exterior areas, including a sprawling beach club. With design and engineering by Vripack and Dubai-based SF Yachts serving as the owner’s representative during the build, the yacht can sleep up to twelve guests in six staterooms and includes a lavish split-level master suite on the upper deck.  Once outfitting is complete, the new Alia 55m will undergo sea trials before delivery to her owner. The official World debut will take place late September 2021.
Technical Data:
LOA - 55 m (180.5ft)
Beam - 9.1 m
Accommodation - twelve guests in six cabins, ten crew in five cabins 
Speed - 12 knots max ten knots cruise
Hull Shape - displacement
Construction - steel hull aluminium super structure
Project - Vripack exterior and naval architecture

September 2, 2021

Project: Sealine S335

Sealine present the project for the S335, a sport cruiser of over ten meter in length based on the hull of the C335. The Sealine S335 will feature a standard twin cabin lower deck interior, with three lower deck layout choices, from the replaced the forward cabin with a convertible U-shaped dinette, to having a small dinette to port side or a galley. Another option in the C335 will be that for an XL extra large bathing platform, this allowing for larger tender stowage.  The Sealine C335 is standard powered by a single Volvo 340hp, and or optional 400hp and or twin 220hp.  Propulsion is stern drive and speed is 28 knots with the standard engine, or 32 knots with both the optional choices.

September 1, 2021

Custom and Series Builder Connection

Custom sportfish yachts and cruisers builders have been a success in the last two decades, not only growing in size and building bigger yachts, but also in order book, with these custom shops having a two year plus waiting list for a new build.  Today custom builders have a good share of sportfish yacht sales, most of which sell in the largest yacht market in the World of the East coast of the USA.  

Seeing this success it is a surprise how the design and expertise of custom sportfish yacht stays in that realm, and is never teased up by the production builder.  In Italy compared to USA a custom designer would over the years enter into production yacht building.  Zuccon started with Baglietto and after some years went with Posillipo and then in 1990 joined Ferretti.  Righini started with Falcon and Overmarine Mangusta and then joined Azimut in 1993.

There is sometimes a couple exception to this rule.  For those with a good memory might remember the last Ferretti Group Bertram stint in 2013, when the company gave custom sportfish yacht specialist Robert Ullberg designer and product development duties which resulted in the fall of that same year for the 60 project. Things turned out differently for Bertram in 2015 with Gavio Group purchasing the brand and the 60 remaining a project and a design.  Robert Ullberg has designed most of Paul Mann and Bayliss custom builds, and is one of the most recognized and appreciated designers for Sportfish yachts.  Another production build coming from a custom designer was the Ocean Yachts 64 Makaira launched in 2014, which was designed by Steve French Applied Dynamics, known for his work for FandS. Unlike the Bertram 60, the 64 Makaira was produced though it made it in the wrong time as a couple years later due to financial difficulty the business was sold.  The model though is still available from the current ownership. 

Year is 2020 and finally we have a new custom-production collaboration from Albermarle, who for its new sixteen meter flagship, join collaboration with renowned Carolina custom builder Spencer.  The new Albermarle 53 Spencer Edition is the largest build by the production boat builder who never went beyond to the 410 flagship model.  Unlike the Bertram 60 the Albermarle 53 Spencer Edition is going to happen with the model currently being in advanced stages of construction.  It will be interesting if following this we will see more Custom-Production collaboration, all depending on the success of the 53 Spencer Edition. 

August 31, 2021

Super Yacht Destroyed by Fire in Massachusetts

A 25 meter super yacht titled m/y Miss Dunia burned down to fire at Pope Islands Fleet marina in New Bedford, Massachusetts, at around 1730 hours of Monday 30 August.  The US Coast Guard and New Bedford and Fairhaven fire departments attended and went to Pope Islands marina to control and extinguish the fire.  Even though no injuries happened in this fire a dinner party was reported being made onboard before the yacht went ablaze, even though the number of guests onboard has not been mentioned.  Miss Dunia was reported carrying under two thousand litres of fuel and had a pollution spread to over 200 meters from the wreck, with a second boom being added to contain the environmental damage. M/y Miss Dunia arrived to Pope Islands Fleet Marina from Florida three weeks prior.
Owned by Pope Islands Fleet Marina owner Lars Vinejerud II, m/y Miss Dunia previously named Lady B is a Horizon 82 from 2007 with the extended cockpit and enclosed pilot house option.  Designed inhouse by Horizon this 82 offered accommodation for six guests in three double cabins, with crew accommodation for three in two cabins, and was powered by twin Cats 1650hp engines with a top speed up to 23 knots. 23 Horizon 82 models where built from 2003 to 2009, with the model replaced by the E78 in 2011.

Monthly News - August 2021

-pic of the month- Wajer Immersive Unveiling


Back Cove Needs Help

The Back Cove 39O will make her official international debut at the upcoming Newport show and this is where You come in, to vote for the Back Cove 39O and help it win the coveted Newport For New Products "People's Choice" award. As many of you will remember, this award has become something of a family tradition here at Back Cove Yachts; thanks to our fantastic community of owners, associates, partners, and friends - and we're asking you to make your voices heard once again!  Voting ends on Wednesday, September 15th, so don't wait!


Bayliss Wins at Home

Congratulations to the guys on Tarheel for receiving 1st place in the Dare County Boat Builders Tournament. With two consistent days of fishing, the crew topped the leaderboards in billfish releases with five white marlin and one blue marlin. John R. Bayliss was also the recipient of the top angler award. We are proud to be a part of this tournament each year!  All proceeds from the tournament benefit the Dare County Boat Builders Foundation. The organization actively supports local educational programs and scholarships for Dare County students. 

Bayliss Takes First Place at Bermuda Triple Crown

Pescador took first place in the Bermuda Triple Crown series this past month. The group had a strong performance throughout each leg of the tournament, and in a close finish topped the leaderboards based on time. Pescador's last blue marlin release on a slow day of fishing helped to clinch the victory over their competitors. Congratulations to the owners and crew!

Bayliss at Virginia Beach Marlin Invitational

The guys on Mama C placed second based on time at the Virginia Beach Marlin Invitational tournament last weekend. They released one blue marlin and three white marlin throughout the duration of the tournament.  We wish them the well as they compete in the White Marlin Open this week!


Ferretti Gift of Time Short Film

Spending time with the people we love, waiting for night to fall to admire the stars, finding the positive side of every situation, growing and being amazed by the little things: in a fast-paced world that has accustomed us to the frenzy of the moment, some things still need time. “The gift of time” is the short film directed by William9 to present the new Ferretti Yachts 1000, through the words of the famous poem “I wish you time” by Elli Michler.  It is a story about the Italian way of life, about conviviality and love, but most importantly about the importance of knowing how to savour every moment. Three generations are reunited on board the yacht to celebrate the most precious gift that life can offer: time. The soundtrack “Il Mondo”, written by Jimmy Fontana and performed by Alessandro Ristori - accompanies exquisitely Italian imagery, where life is a continuous succession of love stories and emotions.  Ferretti Yachts 1000, the largest flybridge model ever built by the brand, was born in time to be timeless, just like moments of life on board, which are transformed into indelible memories.  “This film celebrates time, one of our most precious gifts and for yachting enthusiasts a key indicator of happiness, because more time means more destinations, more swimming and more sunsets. I agree with Seneca, who two thousand years ago proposed severe punishments for anyone who stole even just an hour of our time,” commented Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi. “Our majestic flagship Ferretti Yachts 100 is an invitation for you and your loved ones to make the most of the gift of time, on a boat where every space and detail are designed to maximise the pleasure of living on the water in the utmost comfort. It is a boat with the wonderful sense of hospitality that comes naturally to us Italians, and the song ‘Il Mondo’, which provides the film with its soundtrack, pays tribute to our unique and inimitable way of life.”  Working with us on this great project were some exclusive partners: Dolce&Gabbana, Galleria Tornabuoni and Pisa Orologeria. Three brands that, like Ferretti Yachts, bring excellence to the world.  The film was given its premiere at the Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice and is now available on Ferretti Yachts and Ferretti Group social media channels.  Based on a concept by communication agency Undesign, the film was produced by Sedici:9 and LMC Vision.  Cast members: Angelica Cacciapaglia, Alisa Moldovan, Luca Corradi, Marta Riello, Renato Fornasari, Tommaso De Bellis, Sofia Barbieri and Stefan Bohuky.

Ferretti Custom Line and Venini

Custom Line, the Ferretti Group brand that creates unique yachts expertly designed and built to stand the test of time and to reflect their owners’ personality and lifestyle on the water, and Venini, the storied artistic glass company known worldwide for the excellence of its creations, will be presenting their masterpieces and new products at the international events scheduled in September, from the Ferretti Group Private View in Monte Carlo to the Fuori Salone at the Milan Furniture Fair, and from the Cannes Yachting Festival to the Monaco Yacht Show.  Heritage, Italian design, quality, hand craftsmanship, ongoing innovation and exclusiveness are the values shared by these two pinnacles of Made in Italy excellence, which for a whole month will be offering their customers unique emotions and experiences.  During the Fuori Salone - the most eagerly awaited international design event of the year, held from September 4 to 10 - the Venini boutique in Via Montenapoleone in Milan and Custom Line celebrate their partnership with an exclusive exhibition dedicated to the union among the art in naval tradition, design and contemporary art.  The creations presented by Venini include the iconic Plate by Tapio Wirkkala and Acqua by Michela Cattai, not to mention Otto by Luca Nichetto and Celesti by Atelieir Oi.  In parallel with the Salone del Mobile, the two brands will also continue their joint activities during the top events that welcome in the new yachting season. At the Ferretti Group Private Preview (Monte Carlo, September 2-4), the exclusive international yachting event at which owners and guests can find out about the new products launched in 2021, such as the Custom Line Navetta 30, the Cannes Yachting Festival (Cannes, September 7-12), the Genoa Boat Show (Genoa, September 16-21) and the Monaco Yacht Show (September 22-25), the timeless designs created by Venini will be featured on Custom Line yachts. Customers will have the chance to admire the artistic harmony generated by this creative partnership, characterised by a rich variety of styles and forms of expression.  Custom Line and Venini, two of the world’s most iconic luxury brands, are the epitome of Italian design at its most sophisticated and in the coming months they will continue to surprise fans with new projects permeated by their hallmark creative quality and fine hand craftsmanship.

Ferretti Group Expands Presence in Greece

Ferretti Group further consolidates its already extensive presence in Eastern Europe and expands its sales network in Greece through an exclusive partnership agreement with Okeanis to market the Riva, Pershing, Ferretti Yachts and Itama brands.  Okeanis has a team of expert professionals and a deep understanding of the luxury yacht market gained from thirty years’ experience in the industry. That is why it can offer local owners an exceptional yachting experience, from purchase through to after-sales assistance, in line with Ferretti Group’s extraordinarily high standards.  With a view to further growth and development on foreign markets, the partnership will strengthen the Group’s distribution channel in a strategically important area through a direct presence. The market in Greece, after showing its resilience during this difficult pandemic year, looks set to power ahead at full throttle this year.  The agreement, immediately effective, forms part of Ferretti Group’s global business development strategy. With this new dealership, the Group further extends its network of over 60 selected dealers in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the United States and Asia Pacific, guaranteeing outstanding service in over 70 countries worldwide.


Formula Customer Experience on BoatTest

Formula's Customer Experience Manager video was recently featured this week in BoatTest.com's e-newsletter and it got a Ton of views, going in-depth about Formula's hands-on delivery philosophy and the use of their Customer Experience Managers. 


Horizon Completes $15 million Yards Expansion

Since its establishment nearly 35 years ago, Horizon Yachts has continuously invested in its facilities and equipment to maintain and further its position as one of the world’s largest and leading yacht builders. The latest infrastructure investment comes in the form of a brand new 9,917sqm production facility constructed on the Horizon grounds in a space formerly used for mold storage.  This new space can now accommodate seven yachts up to 120 feet in length and improves production capacity significantly, allowing the group to deliver 20 to 25 new builds per year.    The expansion is the result of a two-year planning process with an overall focus on production efficiency throughout and to this effect includes the re-designation of existing workspaces and an efficient horizontal production queue. The hull production division of Group subsidiary Atech Composites division has also been relocated to the main yard to streamline the manufacturing process of each hull. Now, each critical stage of construction, from hull production to boat assembly and the final testing will be carried out in the same vicinity.   In addition to the new facility, which officially began operations in February 2021, construction is currently underway on a materials warehouse and a brand-new office building designed to house the factory management department. The new building is expected to be completed in early 2022.  


Jarrett Bay In The Coolest Thing Made

Jarrett Bay is excited to announce that they have once again been nominated for the Coolest Thing Made in NC! Competing in a field with 67 other products nominated for this prestigious designation.  This annual state-wide contest invites the public to nominate and vote for their favourite product manufactured in North Carolina. Entries can be made once per day but must be made from a valid email address or they can be disqualified.  The Coolest Thing Made in NC contest hosted by the NC Chamber and presented by Old Dominion Freight Line. 

Jarrett Bay Wins the White Marlin Open

The first fish to the scales of the White Marlin Open was an 82.5 pound white marlin brought in by the Whelan crew aboard hull 40, Fender Bender. This fish ended the week in second place and landed the team an incredible $1,980,910.00!  More Tournament Highlights: • Hull 11, Bill Collector wins 3rd Place at the inaugural Big Rock Kids Tournament, Hull 5, Quote Boat is awarded 3rd Place at the Hatteras Marlin Club Blue Marlin Release Tournament, Hull 23, Sea Striker takes 2nd Place in the Sea Horse Anglers Club Bermuda Billfish Tournament, Hull 59, Builder’s Choice finished in second on time at the Bermuda Triple Crown Championship and also won the optional Series Jackpot worth $31,500.  The crew on the Jarrett Bay 64 also pulled in nearly $90k in prize money at the Pirate's Cove Billfish Tournament including a daily award on the final day.

Jarrett Bay Employee Retirement 

Big Congrats to Nile Mitchell on his retirement after helping to deliver 256 dreams in his career building boats! Jarrett Bay is grateful to have had his wisdom and leadership guide some of the most notable projects for the company and the sportfishing industry at large. Enjoy working on your own boat for a change, Nile. Jarrett Bay we’ll miss you!


Nobiskrug New Ownership

Today, Lars Windhorst, founder and owner of the Tennor Group, takes over the renowned superyacht shipyard Nobiskrug in Rendsburg, Germany.  In the future, Nobiskrug and Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft, already part of the Tennor group will work under an integrated management and joined administration while operating from their proven locations. Therefore the skills of the specialist for merchant and naval vessels from FSG will be bundled with the know-how of the superyacht builders from Nobiskrug. In particular in the areas of design, purchasing and administration, the total of 645 employees will work together across locations. Close cooperation is also to be established between the production departments. A symbolic keel-laying plate with a traditional coin documents this important day in the shipyard’s history.  The two shipyards are ideally connected geographically as well, with a travel time of less than an hour, thus enabling a close cooperation.  The continuation of in-depth training currently sixteen young people are apprenticed in seven different professions at Nobiskrug – is also a major concern for him, he said. Over the past two decades Nobiskrug has developed and built unique superyachts.  The shipyard with its excellent facilities, is the ideal place for building high qualitative superyacht projects. Both companies will ensure that the world-renowned shipyards in Flensburg and Rendsburg will continue to stand for innovative, sophisticated and efficient shipbuilding of the future.


Steeler Brings Jonnie and Therese Boer of De Librije

The Steenwijk-based shipyard for luxury yachts, Steeler Yachts has announced an alliance with Jonnie and Thérèse Boer of De Librije, the three-star Michelin restaurant in Zwolle, the Netherlands. A unique collaboration between two multiple award-winning famous names, with the purpose of offering Steeler motor yacht customers an equally special addition to their nautical lifestyle.  The collaboration will comprise the design and composition of kitchen equipment selected by Jonnie en Thérèse, along with cutlery and crockery, and the stock of spices and ingredients, naturally also including a matching selection of wines.  In practice, this will translate into on-board gastronomic refinement of the customer’s own yacht. From enjoyment of the very best coffee and tea blends, to being able to prepare the most fantastic Librije recipes, recommended by the culinary couple.  The alliance between Steeler and husband and wife Jonnie en Thérèse Boer will initially cover the design and fitting of the Steeler Bronson 75 models, though the intention is that all custom-built models by the Steenwijk-based shipbuilder will include these extraordinary culinary additions in the future.


Wajer Immersive Unveiling

After the preview in April, the time had finally come for the Wajer 77 to make its debut at sea on July 31. Wajer Yachts has held one of the most spectacular launch events in recent memory to unveil the first Wajer 77 in the crystal blue Mediterranean waters of the Côte d'Azur. The largest model yet from the Dutch yacht builder was welcomed by a fleet of more than forty other Wajers and their owners in the middle of the sea. The first 17 orders of the 77's have been sold in the South of France, the Balearic Islands and America.

Wajer Fun Pontoon

Whether you are looking for an adrenaline-fuelled experience of a lifetime or want to enjoy a few hours of relaxation through the glittering Mediterranean waters, we’ve got you covered.  New this Summer in our French Hub is the Wajer Fun Pontoon! A curated selection of the most popular water toys, from electric surfboards, wind and kite surfing gear to seabobs, SUP boards, snorkels and laser sailing are available for Wajer Owners at this floating water sports paradise just past Pampelonne.

Wajer New Online Configurator

Half the enjoyment of purchasing a new Wajer is customizing your new yacht according to your taste. And as the devil is in the details, from now on you can elevate your purchasing experience, by adding some color to your Wajer with the new online color configurator tool. You can choose your own color for the hull, upholstery and waterline from different angles of your Wajer. The color configurator is now live for all our models and can be found on the Wajer model pages on our website.


Viking Mullica Expansion Update

The tremendous success of Valhalla Boatworks (VBW) has prompted the need for more space at its dedicated manufacturing facility; Viking Mullica. Our sister company is crushing it, with sales exceeding 300 boats since the first three V Series models (V-33, V-37 and V-41) were announced at the Viking VIP Preview in February 2019. With the addition of the Valhalla 46 to the fleet last summer, production of Vikings from 38 to 46 feet was moved to New Gretna and a two-phase expansion at Viking Mullica was set into motion. The two projects will add a combined 16,000 square feet to Viking Mullica’s 88,000 manufacturing footprint, increasing boatbuilding efficiency, capacity and output.  Phase I is moving along right on schedule with the completion this month of a 6,000-square-foot structure that physically connects Buildings 2 and 3, creating one contiguous manufacturing area. The images below show the addition’s steady progress throughout recent months.  “This first phase, which we refer to as an ‘Infill,’ is an expansion of our hull, stringer and egg crate area,” says Viking Mullica General Manager John Leek IV. “The additional square footage will allow us to better organize the manufacturing space for increased efficiency.” In addition to providing more production capacity for the resin-infused stringer grids for each of the four Valhalla models, the area will also be used for transom bustles and fishboxes.  Mullica is located on six acres in the Pinelands of New Jersey, just 11 miles from the mothership in New Gretna. More space and better organization will improve workflow, which in turn helps Viking Mullica’s 200-plus-strong team of shipwrights build a better boat every day. A portion of the extra real estate increases the size of the egg crate area to prep and install fuel tanks (as shown above), internal bulkheads and other components after each hull is pulled from its mold. The existing overhead crane system was extended into the new area, further facilitating the space’s flexibility and utility.  Phase II will soon commence with utility and site preparation. It will extend the backside of Building 1, adding 10,000 square feet of space consisting of 6,000 square feet on the ground level and a mezzanine of 4,000 square feet. "This addition will give us the space we need to produce certain fiberglass parts (hatch lids and doors) that are built in New Gretna utilizing Light Resin Transfer Molding." Phase II is scheduled to be completed next summer.  An evolution of Viking excellence, Valhalla Boatworks pushes center console quality, luxury, performance and fishability to unprecedented levels. 

Viking Expand Dealership

The Viking Yacht Company is pleased to announce that Valhalla Boatworks and Viking Yachts have expanded their dealer network to Bermuda with the addition of PW Marine, owned and operated by The Waterfront Group, a renowned six-generation family business dedicated to the archipelago’s boating, fishing and leisure lifestyle.  “We are delighted to represent the Viking Yacht Company and Valhalla Boatworks in Bermuda,” said William Cox, President of The Waterfront Group. “To be associated with Viking and the Healey family is an honor that represents the values of quality that our families share.” “This was a perfect partnership just waiting to happen,” said Viking President and CEO Pat Healey, above with William. “When it comes to Bermuda, the Cox family has everything boat owners could ever want.”  PW Marine will offer the entire lineup of the Valhalla Boatworks V Series, which consists of four high-performance luxury center consoles ( the V-33, V-37, V-41 and V-46). “We’re also very excited about the potential for our Viking Billfish Series in the Bermuda market,” says Pat. The Billfish fleet consists of the 38 BF (shown above), 38 BF Open and 46 Billfish. “This partnership expands our global distribution into an area that’s truly ideal for both our Valhalla center consoles and Billfish sportfishing boats.” PW Marine also operates The Waterfront Marina, which offers boat owners convenient access to the island’s most central and prestigious full-service docking facilities. The marina is no stranger to Vikings, and recently provided a berth for Krazy Salt’s, the Viking 80 that won the 2021 Bermuda Big Game Classic and Stone Harbor Marlin Invitational.

Viking at Beach Haven Invitational 

The MACK 900 team claimed 3rd Place Overall Billfish Points at the recent Beach Haven White Marlin Invitational. The 46 Billfish released a blue and white marlin to clinch that spot as well as Most Combined Points. William McGovern cranked in the white marlin to claim Top Junior Angler.  The Viking 62 Lovin Life released four white marlin to claim 2nd Place Release Points while Business, also a Viking 62, hung three white flags for 3rd place Release Points. Irish Twin, a Viking 55, hung a 13.5-pound dolphin to take 2nd in that category.

Viking at Texas Billfish Classic

Derek Dick caught a record-breaking wahoo at the recent Texas Billfish Classic. Fishing on the Viking 72 Pozo Seco, Derek weighed in a 72-pound ‘hoo to win the category. Pozo Seco angler Cody Spencer weighed the 2nd Place Tuna with a 58.5-pound fish. The Viking 50 Pass It On took 3rd Place Tuna with a 43.5-pounder. The Top Lady Angler was awarded to the Viking 74 Draggin Up’s Kennedy Heule after she released a pair of blue marlin. 

Viking Win 39th Key West Tournament

Congratulations to the Viking 68 Sea Hawk. The Sea Hawk team won the 39th Annual Key West Marlin Tournament with their blue marlin release. The event is held in the spirit of the legendary Ernest Hemingway and features world-class fishing, festivities, parties and awards dinner.

Viking at Thirtieth Annual Mid Atlantic

The Viking fleet rose to the occasion at the 30th Annual Mid-Atlantic. There was a Viking on practically every leader board, and not only did the Viking 80 win Most Points Overall and Most Points White Marlin but Pipe Dreamer and The Right Place swept the Heaviest Tuna division.  Larry Hesse’s Viking 70 Goin’ In Deep got the party started on Day 1. Captain Walt Harmstead was the first boat to check into the weigh station with a 681-pound blue marlin reeled in by Mike Cassidy. That blue stayed on the leaderboard for the five-day event, claiming 3rd Place.  Captain Andrew Dotterweich was behind the wheel of Todd Willard’s Viking 48 Fish On when angler Josh Jasper hooked up with a white marlin. That fish weighed 75 pounds and claimed 3rd Place.  Our Viking 80 demo layed Day 1, but Captain Sean Dooley turned the cockpit into a mosh pit on Day 2. The reels were screaming as the team released a triple-header shortly after lines in. The furious action continued and the team executed perfectly, ending the day with 16 white flags flying. They added five more to the tally to take the Most Points White Marlin honors as well as the Most Point Overall title.  The Heaviest Tuna division saw dozens of big eyes and yellowfin weighed but Chip Caruso’s Viking 70 Pipe Dreamer dominated the leaderboard. Captain Bryan Boyle put Chip and Andy Confortino on big eyes of 235 and 227 pounds to take 1st and 2nd Places. Bob Hugin aboard his Viking 62 The Right Place finished in 3rd Place with a 188-pounder. The Right Place, with captain Evan Millas at the wheel, cranked in eight tuna for a record of 626 points and 1st Place. Pipe Dreamer was 2nd Place with 231 points.  Shon Craig’s Viking 80 Amarula Sun shook up the final day when captain Dan Veid brought in Gerry Imparato’s 1st Place Heaviest Dolphin at 45 pounds. Ken Hager’s Viking 50 Taylor Jean also took part in “Moving Day”, with Robert Wagner showing up with a 36-pounder at the docks good for 2nd Place.  Amarula Sun’s 57-pound wahoo caught by Gerry Imparato on Day 3 stayed on the board and finished in 2nd Place.  

Viking at White Marlin Open

A $9.2 million purse was plenty of motivation for the 444 boats that fished the White Marlin Open based out of Ocean City, Maryland. And SandBob (shown above at the Viking Key West Challenge) came ready to play. Bob Moss’s Viking 72 released two blue marlin and six whites to claim 3rd Place Boat and 3rd Place Release Boat. Chad Moss hooked two of those blues and a pair of the whites to claim the 2nd Place Angler of the event. Right on their heels, the Anderson family’s Viking 80 Krazy Salt’s (above) hung a blue marlin and eight white marlin flags for 4th Place Boat and 4th Place Release Boat. Frank Sinito Jr., fishing on the Viking 62 Irene, released one blue marlin and four whites for 4th Place Angler. Lawrence Aliseo, angler on the Viking 70 Goin In Deep, released five of the boat’s seven white marlin for 10th Place Angler.  The White Marlin Open donated 1,700 pounds of fish to local food pantries and soup kitchens. “This is a big part of our strategic plan - to get more nutritious food in the community, and providing fresh fish like this is really an ideal way to meet our goal,” said Butch Langenfelder, the Food Sourcing Manager for the Maryland Food Bank.   

Viking at Texas Legends Billfish Tournament

Walk West for the win again! Last year Riley Rhodes’ Viking 55 Walk West not only won the Texas Legends Billfish Tournament but did it with a record-breaking 737-pound blue marlin. This year captain Raleigh Morrison did it again with three blue marlin releases. They earned the team Overall Blue Marlin points and Overall Billfish Points giving Walk West back-to-back wins.  Second Place Blue Marlin points were awarded to Richard Wieschwill’s Viking 45 Mi Nova with a blue marlin release. The Viking 72 Pozo Seco weighed a 55-pound fish for 3rd Place Yellowfin Tuna, and the Viking 62 Amigo won the Wahoo division with a 27-pound fish.

Viking at Ocean City Marlin Club Ladies Tournament

Dick Mumford’s Viking 72 topped the leaderboard at the Ocean City Marlin Club’s Ladies Tournament, better known as the Heels & Reels event. The ladies on the Knot Again released four white marlin to win the Billfish Release title. The Viking 62 Business claimed Top Dolphin with a 17.6-pound fish.

August 30, 2021

Classic Italian Yacht Sinks in Scarlino

A classic Italian Cantieri di Pisa Akhir motor yacht of nineteen meters in length sank while moored in its berth at Marina di Scarlino on the afternoon of 30th August.  The cause of the sinking are unknown but some reports say that the cause was for a failed exhaust.  The Akhir motor yacht was reported unattended at the time of the sinking, and is reported to have touched the bottom, with some fuel liquids being dispersed during the sinking.  The yacht was salvaged couple days later.  Marina di Scalino is located in the South Central part of Tuscany in front of Elba island.
This Cantieri di Pisa Akhir is a 19 model, which was build of wood.  Designed by Pier Luigi Spadolini the 19 was launched in 1973 and was the second model of the first generation Akhir series, which with the soft curved 28 meter presented in 1979 evolved into its second generation.  The Akhir 19 featured a three double cabins layout, with three heads two of which ensuite, a full beam midships room for the owner, and a crew cabin sleeping two forward.  Weighting at about 33 tons loaded and powered by twin GM 675hp it reach top speeds up to 27 knots and a cruise of 24, and with a fuel capacity of 4600 litres had a range of  about five hundred nautical miles.  The Akhir 19 evolved in the more clean lined but similar 20 model in 1983, and also had a similar 16.50 smaller sister, also launched in 1973 and recognizable by the central radar arch.

Improve-it = Ferretti 780

Restyling or new model? Ferretti Yachts 780 has so many new style and design features that one possibly can speak about it as a new model, acknowledging the profound changes at both aesthetic and functional level.  The result of collaboration between the Product Strategy Committee led by Mr. Piero Ferrari, the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, and Ideaeitalia for the interior design, Ferretti Yachts 780 has been rethought to align it with the family feeling of the new fleet, reprising and evolving the stylistic hallmarks introduced in the latest 500 and 1000 models.  The new features introduced by the restyling range from the adding of larger glazed surfaces in the hull, serving the lower deck cabins and giving the yacht’s sleek and streamlined profile an even sportier look, to the new layout and decor of the flybridge, with a larger central bar area in the standard layout. The major redesign of the interiors introduces several highly appreciated new features found on the latest models in the range, including a choice of two décor moods: Classic, with warmer and more traditional colours inspired by the island of Ischia in the Gulf of Naples; and Contemporary, a more urban and modern look with cooler colourways inspired by Taormina in Sicily. The first new-era Ferretti Yachts 780 presented will feature the Classic mood.  Ferretti 780 is standard powered by twin Man 14000hp engines which give top speed up to 28 knots, and or optional 1550hp engines giving 31 knots.

August 29, 2021

Flybridge Cruiser Aground in Volga River

A Beneteau flybridge cruiser of about ten meters in length ended aground and then listed to its starboard side, in Togliatti on the Volga river, in Russia on the morning of 29 August. The causes of the accident are unknown. The Volga river is the longest water stream in Europe stretching from Central to Southern Russian and into the Caspian sea.
The Beneteau in this accident is an Antares 30 model produced from 2010 till 2016, to an inhouse design and interior by Sarazin.  The Antares 30 has interiors with two cabins, forward main cabin, second cabin with two bunks to port side, with a living all on the main deck.  The Antares 30 was standard powered by single 370hp engines with line shaft propulsion.  The model was also offered as the Antares 32 with twin 200hp engine installation, weighing about half a ton more, but being practically identical in exterior and interior layout.