May 1, 2022

New Launch Label

As we often hear people say the devil is in the details so in April I introduced a new label titled New Launch, this label replaces New Model tag for custom one off build yachts.  It is important to show a distinction between a one off custom made yacht and a production series.

A production yacht is usually made of fiberglass, but there is aluminum, steel, and wood constructions made in serial builds.  Steel and wood production build are mostly semi-custom, sometimes even to near a full custom.  Meaning that the outside and the platform used will be offered from the builder, but the rest is decided by the owner.   

Last but not least we have custom platforms, which can be changed in various details to suit owners tastes and preferred configurations.  This custom platform is mostly used in super yachts of aluminum and steel in between thirty to fifty meters in size. So in these situations the builder has the fifty meter hull, with options coming to bow design, stern type choice, and also to the decks one would want and how to spread them.  With this system more often then not a builder can also speculate build, laying the keel of the hull, and in this process of building start selling the project and choices coming with it.

Over fifty meters in size we usually enter in most cases full custom projects, when the owner starts from a blank paper and builds a yacht to his vision with his designer and builder of choice.  Although semi-custom platforms have been increasing also above this size from builders as Benetti, Codecasa, Heesen, but also Amels who for example with the 60 Limited Edition platform have sold five units, this followed by an 80 Limited Edition so far sold in one yacht.     

April 30, 2022

Monthly News - April 2022

-pic of the month- Wajer Start Season 2022

Apreamare Choose Sculati and Partners

Sculati and Partners has begun consulting for Apreamare, a historic Italian shipyard, founded more than 170 years ago, specialized in the construction of traditional Sorrentine planing boats. The collaboration sees the brand’s social media management, digital PR and media relations handled by the Milan-based communications agency.  Sculati and Partners will work closely with the Company’s management and the marketing consultant firm The Thinking Factory with the triple tasks of strategic consulting, coordination and implementation of media relations and digital PR and, finally, management of the website and social channels. The goal is to support Apreamare in consolidating the brand at both national and international levels.  Apreamare’s origins date back to 1849, when Giovanni Aprea founded a dynasty of shipwrights, starting in Sorrento with the artisanal production of fishing, rowing and sailing boats, in full adherence to the local nautical culture and history. These values have been handed down from generation to generation and, today, the shipyard is synonymous with elegance, classicism and quality craftsmanship throughout the world.


Bayliss Celebrates Twenty Years

Since April 15, 2002, Bayliss has  been applying experience to reality to create bulletproof sportfishing yachts in its Wanchese, NC facility. Over the past 20 years, Bayliss has completed 32 builds, expanded its facilities beyond what thought possible, and grown its staff from a small crew of seven to over 100 employees.  The philosophy of continued improvement is the driving factor behind each new build and boatyard project, and Bayliss see it as an honor and privilege to work in this industry. 


Canados Announces Dealer Expansion

The Iconic Roman Shipyard, with the developments of its Gladiator range of fast open yachts, has now created a net of new dealers in the Mediterranean, East and West Coast of US and the Caribbean.  The Gladiator line consists of 7 models from 41’ to 96’, all characterized by superior performances, extreme luxury, endless customization and unique construction quality.  Capitalizing on over seven decades of luxury yacht building, Canados started producing the Gladiator line of boats aiming at bringing to the market the quality, the flexibility and customization levels that were only available on large yachts so far.  With models capable from 37 up to 85 knots, depending on the power packages, all Gladiators offer the best consumption to mile ratio, thanks to superior naval architecture.  Exclusive distribution agreements have been put in place in strategic locations around the world.   Canados selected world class professionals only.  All with extremely strong after sale and service infrastructures in addition to solid financial assets.  All dealers are committed to have demo boats available on site at all time and provisional production slots so to face growing demand for highly customized Canados’ Gladiator line. Every dealer have in addition dedicated corners and/or showroom for Gladiator’s Design Displays where clients will be able to decide on the quasi-unlimited choices of materials, fabrics, colors, teak.


Fairline New Dealer in Rhode Island and New York Tr-State Region

Fairline Americas has today announced Strong’s Marine as its new dealer for Rhode Island and the New York Tri-State region of the US, further strengthening its dealer network across the United States as it looks to substantially grow over the coming years.  The news follows the announcement of new dealers Nautical Ventures in Florida and Groupe Thomas Marine in Quebec last month.  Strong’s Marine joins the Fairline global roster of dealers - chosen for being forward-thinking, well-established in its territory with an unrivalled reputation for sales, service and customer support.  To be known as Fairline New York, family-run Strong’s Marine has set the benchmark for boating on Long Island and throughout the Tri-State region for over 75 years, encompassing four generations and today boasting a team of more than 150 employees across nine locations.  Jeff Strong, Strong’s Marine President said: “We are delighted to join the Fairline dealer network and look forward to building this iconic brand’s presence in our territory.  Fairline’s impressive model range, along with its team’s commitment to continuous innovation and advancement, are a great match for Strong’s uncompromising spirit of excellence. Our clientele expects nothing but the best from us, we are thrilled to be able to offer the British built Fairline Yacht brand and its award-winning range to our discerning owners.”  Steve Leeson, President of Fairline Americas, comments: “Adding Strong’s Marine to our US dealer network is really exciting for us. Its commitment to ensuring that customers’ boating adventures are flawless from sales and service to dockage and storage, mirrors exactly what Fairline customers expect. We look forward to seeing more Fairlines on the East Coast waters over the coming years.”  Fairline New York will be showcasing the unrivalled products in the Fairline family which fall under four distinct ranges; the F//LINE, Targa, Phantom and Squadron. The F//Line range offers the 33 and 33 Outboard, the Targa range includes six models from 45-65ft, the new Phantom 65 launching later this year and the three Squadron models from 50-68ft.

Formula Most Popular on BoatTest.com

According to BoatTest.com, "Formula’s 270 Bowrider was one of the first performance versions of this style of boat when she was introduced. She has remained popular because she combines Formula’s vaunted rough-water abilities with premium amenities and features and some of the best fit and finish we’ve seen in class. Open the engine compartment and get an eyeful of gleaming gelcoat, batteries that are properly secured with covers protecting the terminals and double clamps on all the hoses. It’s all protected by a 10-year structural warranty and five years of coverage from the Formula Guard protection for the components.

Formula Receives Praise

According to Boating's Boat Buyers Guide, "Super Sport Crossover. That’s what the model suffix designates. What it means is a series of Formula boats that meld crisp handling, smooth riding, high performance, the amenities of a full cabin, and the option for crowd-pleasing dayboating all in one sexy-looking hull."


Frauscher Shines at USA-A-Biz Awards

The shipyard’s innovation impressed Austria’s Trade Commission centre and the international jury in Los Angeles on Oscar weekend.  Last Friday, the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber’s trade commission organisation hosted Austria’s so-called Business Oscars. These celebrate the top achievements of Austrian companies in the competitive US market. The US branch of Frauscher shipyard prevailed in the category ‘Innovation’.  Johanna Frauscher, Head of Online Marketing, accepted the award in Los Angeles: “We’re so happy! This award was completely unexpected. It proves once again that Austrian craftsmanship is highly regarded on the international stage.”  The achievements in the field of nautical e-mobility were decisive for the success. This field has been firmly established as part of Frauscher since 1955 and is responsible for around 40% of boats sold nowadays.  The jury stated: “Frauscher shipyard has impressed for over 90 years with its innovation. With its new electric catamaran, the family company from Upper Austria has once again revolutionised boating on tranquil waters. The TimeSquare 20 combines quietness and speed and is also earning a great deal of recognition on the US market.”  This was the eleventh edition of the US-A-BIZ Awards, with prizes in the following categories: Investment, Innovation, Growth and Spectacular. The gala took place at the Red Bull Headquarters in Santa Monica.


Princess Ocean Photography Awards Renewed Support 2022

Princess Yachts, the UK’s largest yacht manufacturer, has announced it is again joining forces with Oceanographic Magazine to support this year’s Ocean Photography Awards 2022.  Following on from the incredible success and outstanding quality of last year submissions, the Ocean Photography Awards have now become a fixed event on the marine conservation calendar. With a shared passion for sustainability and conservation, Princess Yachts is thrilled to again be involved with this year’s Awards, and delighted to continue their successful partnership with Oceanographic Magazine.  The Ocean Photographer of the Year has a simple mission: to shine a light on the beauty of the ocean and the threats it faces, all while raising money for its protection. The awards present a unique opportunity for all ocean photographers to showcase standout imagery, not only celebrating the world’s oceans, but also highlighting the many plights they are facing.


Riviera Port Lincoln Tuna Classic 2022

Two sensational days of action at the fishing grounds off Eyre Peninsula in South Australia saw more than 800 Southern Blue Fin Tuna caught and released at the 16th annual Riviera Port Lincoln Tuna Classic. This was twice the number of fish caught and released in last year’s event after 28 boats, including 11 Riviera motor yachts, set off at 8am with the competitive spirit of a traditional shotgun start on Saturday, March 25.  On board, 145 anglers prepared to drop the lines at 9am once the boats had reached their chosen fishing grounds, including a number of ‘Junior’ and ‘Small Fry’ entrants who impressed in the 10-kilogram line catch-and-release categories. Though 11-year-old Aiden Waller didn’t place in the Junior category, his father Mark says catching his first ever tuna was achievement enough on the family’s Riviera 525 SUV, Laila Jane.  Riviera is a founding sponsor of the Port Lincoln Tuna Classic, a catch-and-release event that targets only Southern Bluefin tuna, and is the first of its kind in Australia to disallow three-pronged fishing hooks.  On board No Ragrets, a Riviera 53 Enclosed Flybridge, was Greg Cunningham whose yacht came in equal fourth with 61 fish caught.  Also enjoying the camaraderie was David Swinton on Hooked, his Riviera 3850 on which he had travelled from Adelaide about 133 nautical miles away.  After a stunning Sunday on the water, the teams arrived back to town to celebrate their wins, with the record $60,600 Calcutta for the heaviest fish front of mind for many.  A total of 819 fish were caught and released across the weekend. Overall champion angler of the 2022 Riviera Port Lincoln Tuna Classic was Dean Lewis, who caught and released 33 tuna aboard Thirsty Work. David Buckland took home the overall champion boat prize on Dusty, catching and releasing 78 tuna over the two days.  

Riviera Owner Thanks His Team

After a momentous start for Riviera in 2022, including the recent world premiere of the 78 Motor Yacht and the just announced 4600 Sport Yacht, owner Rodney Longhurst thanked his 900-strong team for their dedication to creating luxury motor yachts that are among the ‘best of the best’ in the world.  “We know that Riviera creates world-class motor yachts, but we do more than that,” said Mr Longhurst as he addressed his team during a special thank-you lunch on site.  “We are among the best of the best, so that means you are among the best of the best. I say that humbly and I say that with great admiration. I take none of the work that each and every one of you do for granted and I am extremely appreciative. You are doing an outstanding job because of your can-do attitude and because we are united as a team.”  With exceptionally strong forward orders for luxury motor yachts across the company’s range, including 12 orders for the new 78 Motor Yacht, Riviera continues to invest in expanding its 16.8-hectare state-of-the-art facility on the Gold Coast.  Construction is nearing completion on the new 3,400 square metre Lamination Centre, where the team will create the hulls and decks of the larger Riviera motor yachts. Work is also under way on additional painting and warehouse facilities and on the expansion of a number of existing buildings on site to accommodate demand. On water, Riviera is also expanding its marina facilities.  “The work we are currently undertaking is designed to position Riviera for decades into the future,” said Mr Longhurst. “Our dedication to creating luxurious motor yachts that offer ease of boating and create the ultimate boating experience for our owners is unwavering.”   After the successful world premiere of the 78 Motor Yacht in March and the 4600 Sport Yacht last month, Riviera is now preparing for its largest showcase of the year at Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show from May 19-22. In the only Australian boat show presentation for Riviera in 2022, Sanctuary Cove will provide boating enthusiasts with the opportunity to step aboard 12 luxury motor yachts from the company’s six distinctive model collections from 39 to 78 feet.  “Riviera continues to invest for the future through our enhanced training and operations. While we can have the very best facility and the very best equipment, it all counts for nothing without the very best team and for that we thank you,” Mr Longhurst told his team.   


Sacs Focus on Rebel

SACS has decided to launch a series of initiatives, both of digital and TV communication, through the #2FocusOnRebel project that shook things up in the Sardinian waters in April and will be presented to the public in May.   The Rebel 55, fully equipped with four Mercury Verado 600 engines, sailed along the Costa Smeralda for a European premiere; a boat whose technology perfectly combines with style and performances. In order to describe such a special and unique Rebel, Sacs requested the lens of Gigi Soldano and Carlo Borlenghi, two authentic milestones of world photography that shot together for the first time.  If Borlenghi is a true icon in the nautical world, Soldano is the equivalent in the motorcycle area. Indeed, in the two-day shooting the qualities of the Rebel 55 were enhanced by the photographers, whose different expertise combined in a one-of-a-kind medley: from the America's Cup and Dakar of the past up to the exclusive pictures of Luna Rossa and Valentino Rossi.  The exciting "two focus-challenge" was narrated by Sandro Donato Grosso in the exclusive TV special directed by Claudio Cavilotti for “The Boat Show”, a real gem in the nautical scene. It will be aired on Thursday, May 5 in prime time on Sky Sport Arena Ch 204.  Thanks to the support of Sacs partner Maxitender, the atmosphere in Sardinia was always exciting and professional with even a 4 am wake-up call to capture the light of the dawn, the long sailings and the incredible amethyst shades of Sardinian waters.  Many moments that helped to create an exciting backstage that will be presented in the Sacs Digital Stories where Francesca Russo will let us discover all the behind the scenes of the event. 


Viking Celebrates 58 Years

Brothers Bill and Bob Healey established Viking Yachts on the banks of the Bass River in 1964, and the family-owned-and-operated company has gone on to become the largest and most successful manufacturer of sportfishing yachts in the world with more than 5,000 boats delivered. On first April Viking celebrated 58th consecutive year in business!  Starting with little more than a building in the Pine Barrens with no heat and dirt floors, Bob the lawyer and Bill the ironworker began their amazing journey to build a better boat every day.  Today the Viking plants in New Gretna and Mullica represent the pinnacle of boat manufacturing achievement. Vikings from 38 to 90 feet are built in New Gretna, while the Valhalla Boatworks V-33, V-37, V-41 and V-46 are constructed at Viking Mullica. Viking also owns a group of thriving subsidiaries, including the Viking Yacht Service Center, Palm Beach Towers, Atlantic Marine Electronics and Valhalla Boat Sales.  Three generations strong, the Healey family continues to pursue perfection as the company approaches six decades of boatbuilding excellence. The commitment to building a better boat every day means Viking is constantly pushing the envelope with exciting new boats. This year is especially indicative of Viking drive to innovate as it began production of two new flagships the Viking 90 and Valhalla 55.  The Viking 90 makes its world premiere at the Miami International Boat Show in February 2023. The V-55 will debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October of this year.  The lifeblood of our company has always been our people. The Viking family currently consists of 1,470 boatbuilders, which includes a combined 1,280 employees at our New Jersey locations in New Gretna and Mullica and 190 employees at our Florida facilities. Longtime boatbuilders like Gary Kozlowski epitomize the Viking focus and work ethic. “We just keep plugging away until we get it done – and done 100 percent correctly,” says Gary, who began his career at Viking in 1979 and is currently the Senior Foreman in the Exterior Trim Department. “I learned from Bill Healey. He taught perfection, and that’s what we all strive for. I have a great deal of admiration for the Healey family and what they stand for, and I’m proud to carry on the tradition of building a better boat every day.”

Viking Key West Challenge

The docks were packed with beautiful, world-class sportfishing boats at last week’s 8th annual Viking Key West Challenge, presented by Christi Insurance and Travelers Insurance. The fleet of 48 boats, comprised of Viking Yachts and Valhalla Boatworks center consoles, took over the Conch Republic with more than 500 happy participants. But it was the ladies who stole the show.  Last year’s champ came back ready to defend her title – and she sure did! Rosalie “Roe” Apostoleres, fishing on her Viking 50 Roenick, released 14 sails over two days to add more hardware to her trophy case! Roe covered the leaderboard claiming 1st Place Sailfish, Top Angler and Top Lady Angler while her boat was the Top Boat (18 sails total). Captain Casey Hunt helped Roe carry out a SpotZero mobile unit, Switlik Coastal Passage Raft and a couple pairs of Costa sunglasses. Way to go Roe!  Captain Scott Walker put Terri Groth on 10 sailfish, which was good for 2nd Place Sailfish, 2nd Place Angler and 2nd Place Lady. Terri, fishing her Valhalla 41 Papa’s Pilar, also rolled up to the Spot Zero Weigh Station with the 2nd Place 22.4-pound kingfish.  Lindsey Way, on the Viking 56 Smoke Show, flew five pink flags. With Captain David Ide at the wheel, Lindsey also weighed two kingfish pushing her to 3rd Place Angler and 3rd Place Lady Angler.  Logan Young was the Top Junior Angler. The Blue Eyes angler released three sailfish and took a 15.6-pound tuna to the scales. Teammate Matt Vatland caught a pair of kingfish, earning the boat 2nd Place Kingfish while he took 3rd Place Kingfish Angler.  The Tuna Division was highly contested with 53 fish brought to the scales. Baller, a Valhalla 41, took 1st Place Tuna in the team division and Code Blue’s Roy Dupuis weighed a 31.6-fish for 1st Place Tuna Angler.  But as the tagline to the event states, the Viking Key West Challenge is “More Than Just Fishing”! Anglers, crews and guests attended a lively Captains’ Meeting Cocktail Party, al fresco Welcome Banquet, spirited Lay Day Barbeque Pool Party (with fresh swordfish donated by the category’s winner David Heeter on his Miss Peggy Sue), energetic Kid’s Dock Tournament and boisterous Duval Street Bar Crawl Poker Run. The event was crowned with a festive Awards Dinner under the stars with 39 trophies handed out. Over $20,000 in prizes were awarded over the four-day event.  “The Viking Key West Challenge is an amazing event that just keeps getting bigger and better, with more boats and more people participating every year,” says Viking President and CEO Pat Healey. “It’s now the largest tournament on the island. Key West is really the perfect location where everyone can thoroughly enjoy the boating and fishing lifestyle that we all love.”
  
Viking at Chub Cay Invitational

With a fortuitous last day rally, the Anderson family’s Viking 80 Krazy Salt’s won the Chub Cay Invitational in the Bahamas. Captain Keith Greenberg was at the helm when, in the last hours of the event, the boat hooked a blue from the bridge. This fish, added to the five sailfish already logged, pushed the crew to Top Overall Boat. A pair of blue marlin and 42 sails were released by the 25-boat fleet during the two days of fishing.

Viking Marlin Madness

High Cotton is in the Championship Round! That’s right, Marlin magazine’s Marlin Madness is down to the final two and the Viking 92 High Cotton is looking to reign supreme in the Winner’s Circle. Vote for High Cotton here – and help Viking take home the Marlin Madness bragging rights for the second consecutive year. The Viking 55 Walk West was crowned the 2021 champion.

Viking Happy Trails

A staple in Viking’s Service Department has answered her last call. Sue Bowen, who did everything with a smile, has retired after almost 19 years with the boatbuilder. Customer Service Manager Ray Connolly said, “It has been a pleasure to work with Sue. She was very organized and dedicated but also had a great sense of humor.” Wasting no time, Sue has booked a full calendar that includes exploring the country with her husband Rich on their Can Am Spyder touring motorcycle. Go for it, Sue!  


Wajer Start Season 2022

With the sun shining on 350 happy faces and a record number of 44 Wajers, Wajer made an incredible maiden voyage from the yard in Heeg to the Amstel hotel in the Dutch capital city.  Wajer couldn’t have wished for a better start! 

April 28, 2022

Project: Apreamare Gozzo 45

Following up on the success of the Gozzo 35, the Sorrento shipyard reveals the first designs for the iconic line’s new flagship: Gozzo 45 which will be presented next September at the Cannes boat show. The new Gozzo 45 features a noble soul and elegant lines, superior livability and a fast, stable hull. Apreamare upholds the shipyard’s reputation for world-class build quality and extraordinary attention to detail, a family tradition of hand boatbuilding that has been handed down since 1849. Designed as the other Gozzo models by Marco Casali of Too Design, Cataldo Aprea and the Apreamare Technical Department started from the core of the boat, livability managing to achieve impossible spaces on a 45-footer, even below deck. The distinct aesthetic fully respects the traditional lines of the Sorrentine gozzo, albeit decidedly and wisely updated. The result is a traditional crusier with personality, charm and sober elegance. Tradition, the essence of the brand, is observed and amplified in the new Gozzo 45. Distinctly Mediterranean, this classy cruiser starts from the total absence of steps on deck, in strict adherence to the walkaround philosophy. The open-concept design improves everyday life at sea with comfortable and connected settings: the generous stern platform, two large sunbeds, the cockpit table, which seats eight to ten guests, the bow lounge, the large side decks and the high bulwarks. Below deck as well, the new Gozzo 45 defies expectations with a two-cabin layout, featuring a dinette and two bathrooms, and an optional layout with three cabins and two bathrooms. In both versions, there is close continuity with the outside, favoring space, air and natural light. The naval architecture and hull geometry arise from the long experience of Umberto Tagliavini of Marine Design, who has already signed most of the shipyard’s successful projects. The new Gozzo 45 is a boat that, faithful to tradition, combines high performance, stability and seakeeping, as well as great comfort with low roll under way and at anchor. The hull has a variable geometry with a deep V, designed to accommodate traditional shaft line with Cummins 600hp giving up to thirty knots top speed, or Volvo IPS pod drive with 480hp which give speeds up 33 knots.  

April 26, 2022

Improve-it = Horizon FD75

Horizon have launched hull number four of its FD75 model. An amalgam of firsts, the latest Horizon FD75 is the first of the entry-level Fast Displacement line model to be built for Australian owners and as such the first to be delivered to the continent. This is the first Horizon build for the experienced owners, who selected Horizon for its ability to customize the yacht to their standards; customizations that included the incorporation of the first Skyline or enclosed skylounge configuration for the FD75.  To suit their active cruising lifestyle, the owners specified a three-stateroom layout for the 23 meter explorer yacht comprising the semi on-deck, full-beam master stateroom, one of the hallmarks of the FD75, with two large full-beam guest staterooms on the lower deck.  The owners were heavily involved in the design process and worked in tandem with both the Horizon Yacht Australia team and the yard’s in-house design center to execute a sophisticated and modern interior that perfectly complements the signature styling of the Cor D. Rover-designed series.  On the main deck, a spacious aft deck houses a dining table and flows into the main salon, which features an L-shaped seating area with large dining area and country-kitchen-style galley occupying the six meter beam forward.  The owners specified an interior package of satin Acacia wood complemented by Michelangelo marble stonework throughout. The stonework itself serves as a focal point in the galley area, where it is both the backsplash and the feature stone of the center island with waterfall edges. A slatted feature wall disguises the full-height appliances and divides the galley area from the forward master suite, which is accessed via three steps down. Here, the Acacia wood is complemented by carpeting and textured wallpaper and highlighted by Michelangelo stonework.  On the lower deck, a spacious laundry room is complemented by two additional staterooms forward of the engine room. Each comprises the yacht’s full beam and features large closets and en suites. A beach club with a lounge area and dayhead resides aft of the engine room.  A floating interior staircase in the main salon leads to the enclosed skylounge on the uppermost deck which features a helm station with three fixed helm chairs with a comfortable window side lounge seating and day-head in the lounge area. The large open boat deck offers plenty of space for entertaining with tender storage aft. Settees for relaxing and sunbathing are positioned on the foredeck.  Following this launch a second FD75 with skyline was sold to a North American client in February 2022.

April 24, 2022

Project: Sanlorenzo 57Steel

 

Sanlorenzo present the project for the 57Steel.  Design by Zuccon the 57 Steel will feature five decks, and a nearly straight bow which make for a volume of about one thousand gross tonnage, and seven guest cabins.  The volume will be so spacious that Sanlorenzo is saying that the 57Steel will feature nearly twice the volume of the smaller 52Steel model.  Other unique features of the 57Steel will be that of a bridge dedicated forth deck.  Hybrid propulsion will power the Sanlorenzo 57Steel with top speeds up to sixteen knots.  Four Sanlorenzo 57Steel are under construction with the first unit set to launch in the second half of 2022.   

April 22, 2022

New Model: Austin Parker Ibiza 85

Austin Parker has launched its largest build to date with the new Ibiza 85 going into the water in the first quarter of 2022.  Previous to the Ibiza 85 the largest Austin Parker to date was the 72 Fly launched in 2010. Designed as all Austin Parker onwards from 2009 by Fulvio de Simoni the Ibiza 85 is a hard top super sport yacht of 27 meters in length of pure sporty lines, with its lengthy fore deck striking a balanced look.  She is sporty as you can get but also offering all the comfort one wants thanks to its fully enclosed hard top.  The Ibiza 85 is also comfortable, safe, and secure thanks to its full walk around deck.  The Austin Parker 85 is also unusual for offering five double guest cabins below, a rare thing even for flybridge yachts of this size, even more so in sporty yachts, this being possible thanks to its seven meters beam, and the use of surface drive propulsion which put the engines further aft.  Hull one of Austin Parker Ibiza 85 is powered by twin Man 2000hp engines with surface drives propulsion giving top speeds up to forty knots.  An option for speed loving owners is also available with triple Man 2000hp which will give top speeds of 48 knots.   
Technical Data:
LOA - 27 m (85ft)
Waterline Length - 23.9 m
Beam - 7 m
Draft - 1.9 m
Displacement - 58 t full load (estimate)
Fuel Capacity - 6000 l
Water Capacity - 1500 l
Max Persons - sixteen
Accommodation - ten guests in five cabins, four crew in two cabins
Engines - 2 x Man 2000hp, optional 3 x Man 2000hp
Propulsion -  Arneson surface drives
Speed - forty knots max with twin Man 2000hp, 48 knots max with triple Man 2000hp
Project - Fulvio de Simoni
Certification - CE A

April 21, 2022

Princess Runs Aground in Oslofjord Norway

A Princess 20 meter sport yacht with two persons onboard ran aground in Oslofjord, to the South West of Norway on the morning of 21 April.  The sport yacht sustained some important damage with all the forward part of the hull being open in the collision with the rocky surface.  The two persons onboard where reported mildly injured.  No idea how all this happened but the speculation in these kind of accidents is an autopilot running unattended. 
The Princess in this accident is a V65 Mk.II designed by since 1981 designer Bernard Olesinski.  The V65 Mk.II was based on the same first generation V65 mark one hull, with exterior and interior design changes, from a patio door closing the main deck, and a full beam owners cabin.  It also had no lower saloon on the main deck.  The Princess V65 Mk.II was powered by twin Man 1100hp standard, and or optional MTU 1200hp or Man 1360hp.  The model was replaced by the V62 in the fall of 2008.

Project: Van Den Hoven Voyager 50

 

Van den Hoven presents the Voyager 50 project which sees the Dutch boat builder enter a new market a segment.  The configuration and sporty looks of this 50-footer will appeal to owners, with or without guests, looking for a single-level living layout. Although the exterior of the fifteen meter coupé yacht follows the concept of previous Voyagers, her compact and stretched lines make for a faster look. With a typically Mediterranean feel, the design by René van der Velden features a spacious open cockpit that will host lots of outdoor fun, with plenty of space to move around safely, while the large yet cozy aft deck is perfect for al fresco lounging and dining with loved ones or guests.  The Voyager 50 features an impressive amount of storage space for bicycles and the like with a electric hatch in the stern. An optional hydraulic swim platform can accommodate a tender of up to 3.85 meters.  The vertical windscreen gives the saloon a remarkable amount of indoor space compared to similarly sized yachts, comfortably seating eight people. The interior also includes a well-equipped galley, while below is a three cabins with six beds and two bathrooms.  Owners room is located forward and features separate shower and toilet rooms.  Because the Voyager 50 is built entirely in aluminum, it is fully adaptable to your wishes. This includes the interior, materials and equipment too. The Voyager 50 performance is as you would expect from a Van den Hoven: a perfect combination of comfort, speed and maneuverability. The Van Den Hoven Voyager 50 is to be powered by twin Volvo 480hp engine which gives a top speed up to 22 knots.

April 19, 2022

New Model: Jeanneau DB/43 IB

Jeanneau present the new DB/43 a cabined center console designed for those seeking a sport cruiser with solid, seaworthy qualities and an assertive personality, yet open and inviting. The DB/43 welcomes guest onboard, comfort is prioritized, and careful attention to fit and finish attest to Jeanneau's savoir-faire in the construction of premium models. The design of the DB/43 was entrusted to Italian designer, Camillo Garroni, who conceived its soft curves and extended lines, with hull lines trusted to famed deep Vee specialist Michael Peters. These decisions give the DB/43 a distinguished, sporty look from every vantage point, designed to facilitate shared moments from bow to stern for up to twelve people on board. The Jeanneau DB/43 also offers two opening side terraces with the airy deck plan giving the feeling of spaciousness. The opening terraces enable one to create a true Beach Club atmosphere, with direct access to the water for swimming from three points.  Inside the Jeanneau DB/43 offers accommodation for four or five guest with a midships cabin available with a third berth or lounge sofa.  The Jeanneau DB/43 IB for inboard is powered by twin Volvo 380hp with stern drive propulsion.  An outboard version also exists with triple 350hp gas engines and fuel capacity upgraded to triple 430 liter capacity.  
Technical Data:
LOA - 13.03 m (42.9ft)
Hull Length - 11.1 m
Beam - 3.82 m
Draft - 0.94 m
Fuel Capacity - 2 x 400 l
Water Capacity - 250 l
Max Persons - twelve
Accommodation - four or five berths in two cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 380hp
Propulsion - Volvo DPI dual propeller stern drive
Project - Camillo Garroni exterior interior, Michael Peters naval architect hull design

April 18, 2022

Yacht Destroyed by Fire in Saint-Mandrier, One Person Lost

A 23 meter motor yacht titled Lady Amethyst with Austrian flag and four persons onboard went ablaze on 0200 hours of 17 April in Port Pin Roland, Saint-Mandrier, near Toulon.  Immediate the reaction of the fire fighting squad which committed the resources of 55 fire fighters, four fire engines, two ambulances, and one SNSM ship.  After saving three of the four Austrian crew, the second course of action was to isolate the yacht in order to not ignite nearby yachts.  The operation to extinguish the flames took about ten hours, with the yacht a total wreck after the fire.  The saved three crew members needed to be hospitalised for de-intoxication with a fourth crew member being reported lost as at 18 April.  No pollution was reported with a plan to remove the wreck on 20 April.  M/y Lady Amethyst arrived in Port Pin Roland on the evening of 15 April, which was also the day the yacht completed its sale from a French to the new Austrian owner.
Motor yacht Lady Amethyst is a Conam 75 Wide Body.  Produced from 2003 up to 2010 the 75 Wide Body was Conam largest ever build, and followed the use of a full wide body design Giuseppe Cimino owner and founder of the Naples boat builder pioneered to his flybridge boats with the 48 Chorum in 1990.  Thanks to the wide body the Conam 75 offers spaces usually found on yachts three to five meters larger.  About ten 75 Wide Body have been build up to 2010.
Conam was founded in 1980 by engineer Giuseppe Cimino with help from cousin Luigi in Naples, Italy.  In 2002 Cimino sells Conam to ship builder Gruppo Rodriguez, who closes the yacht company in 2010.  In 2015 Cimino founded Solaria with the launch of a 40 model and a 54 in project stages.