-pic of the month- Jarret Bay for Vineyard Vines
Arcadia Success during European Shows
Back from the excellent success met during latest European Boat Shows, here we resume some news from Arcadia through the 2010-2011 season opening. Two units Arcadia 85 sold to North European buyers are under construction for delivery spring 2011, with works in progress for three more 85s to be delivered within next summer. Arcadia is in advanced negotiation with prospective buyers coming from previous experiences as owners of different typology of yachts, classic flybridge rather than more sportive fast-commuters. That confirms the market cross-trend to welcome up-to-date Arcadia’s philosophy for living new style-life experiences on board. Meanwhile, lamination of hull and superstructure of the first 115 has been completed and fitting out of interior layout and decoration has started following France owner choices, elaborated and worked out by our technical department. Fresh important news is the experience of Maurizio Baldoni, one of the most qualified manager in International yachting market who recently joined Arcadia as Sales and Marketing Director of the Company.
Beneteau Group Improve Profits in 2010
Outlook for growth in 2011 confirmed. 2010 earnings: Income from ordinary operations totaled €45.2 million for FY 2009-10, significantly higher than the €37.5 million initially estimated. This performance has been achieved primarily thanks to the Boat business turning its profitability around more quickly than forecast, while in the Housing business; residential housing launch costs have been higher than planned. The Boat business recorded €32.5 million in income from ordinary operations, with an operating margin of 5.7%, compared with the 3.4% forecast. More specifically, this significant improvement in profitability reflects the success of the new models released. It has been achieved after €3 million in financing, corresponding to the costs for launching the large powerboat business. The Housing business generated €12.7 million in operating income over the financial year, with €18.5 million contributed through the improvement in profitability on the leisure homes business, which posted an operating margin of 9.5%, compared with 8.5% last year. In addition, its financing for residential housing launch costs represents €5.8 million. Net income came to €31.4 million, compared with a €10.4 million loss last year. The Group has achieved strong growth in its net cash position, up from €114.2 million at August 31st, 2009 to €207.1 million, including €58.1 million in treasury stock. In view of these results, a proposal will be submitted at the General Meeting on January 28th, 2011 to pay out a dividend of €0.12 per share. Outlook for 2011. The Boat business, buoyed by the Group's brands holding up well, in addition to the growth drivers from the 2015 development plan, is confirming its ability to achieve 20% sales growth. It is benefiting from the positive results from the autumn shows. However, it will be necessary to wait until the end of the winter shows to gauge the extent of the upturn on the various markets more accurately. For the Housing division, the Group is able to confirm the level of business forecast, coming in at around €230 million. This target is based on the good level seen on the outdoor accommodation market, this division's main activity, in addition to the promising outlook for the residential housing division. Indeed, the residential housing business, currently in a launch phase, is expected to continue to have an impact - although to a lesser extent - on the division's profitability.
Cigarette Bring Your Own Party
Pier 57, the Tennessee-based dealer for Cigarette Racing Team and Marine Technology rolled into the Florida Powerboat Club Poker Run Village on a new set of wheels. A custom-built, custom-wrapped 50' trailer, pulled by a customized International rig caught people's attention, but when the two sides opened and the wing-span revealed a deluxe, gleaming, glowing and pulsing hospitality lounge, jaws dropped. It's like a rocking, rolling nightclub. He purchased the transporter, then transformed it into a uniquely designed and constructed venue to entertain friends, customers, and prospective customers. The traveling party has a custom-built 15' stainless steel table at its center, backlit and surrounded by "diner"-style bar stools, accessed by stairs on both sides. The air conditioned space is brilliantly lit with neon accents and has stainless Viking appliances to accommodate food service. Hot dog and popcorn machines provide snacks, while a 65" flat screen, other TVs and surround sound provide exciting entertainment for guests. LED lighting creates ambience and mood-an added design feature--on portable tables that change color and extend the footprint of the robust venue. A rear "work shop" area is anticipated to become a Mercury Racing dispensary for emergency parts. Two Pier 57 service technicians are part of the traveling crew; they will be on hand to provide mobile assistance and a problem-free powerboating experience. Full service will still be done at the dealership. A front lounge features tan cow hide recliner couches, white ostrich leather covered walls, a full entertainment center, a Viking wine cooker and pull-out refrigerators and freezers for other beverages. While the trailer was totally renovated, with walls removed and raised doors installed, the truck was customized by the noted Chrome Shop Mafia. The trailer wrap features the brands of Pier 57, Cigarette Racing Team and MIT and draws on Pier 57's racing history when its trailer was used as a race support shop. Legendary racer, Art Lilly, Woods' former throttleman, came to Key West for the trailer unveiling, reliving memories of racing days at the APBA World Championships. The trailer is planned to travel to key Poker Run and boating events across the country as part of Pier 57's national tour.
Clipper Opens New Sydney Office
Australian boatbuilder Clipper Motor Yachts has opened a new street-front office in the Mosman area of Sydney, Australia. The boatbuilder will share the space with Matthew Willett Marine (MWM). The new location within Ferguson's Marina has on-water space for up to four Clippers. A full boat slip service will also be offered at the dealership.
Donzi Changes Underway
Liberty Associates and American Marine Holdings Chairman Bill Gates is proud to make the following announcement regarding significant changes to the operations of Liberty's recreational fiberglass powerboat brands Donzi Marine, Pro-Line Boats, Baja Marine, and Fountain Powerboats. Liberty, owner of Fountain Powerboats and Baja; and American Marine Holdings, owner of Donzi Marine and Pro-Line; announced today that manufacturing operations for Donzi and Pro-Line are being relocated from production facilities in Sarasota and Crystal River, Florida; to Liberty's 250,000 square foot, 66-acre waterfront facility in Washington, North Carolina, long known as the home of Fountain Powerboats. Production for both brands is expected to commence by late November. North Carolina officials, lead by Governor Beverly Perdue, were instrumental in working with Liberty and AMH to offer state and county economic grants as incentives to make this project a reality. Donzi is currently enjoying strong sales and increased market share in the high performance powerboat segment, where the its upscale models typically sell for more than $200,000. The company has reported retail sales of nearly 160 units in the past 15 months, while at the same time seeing a nearly complete elimination of existing field inventory. Meanwhile, sales at Pro-Line have been seen a boost following the recent introduction of several new models, including a 35-foot center console. Liberty has also announced plans to re-launch Baja as a stand-alone brand. According to Walker, centralizing production in North Carolina is a strategic move that will provide significant advantages to Liberty's brands.
Fairline Asian Dealer Conference
Fairline Boats' first-ever business conference for regional dealers of Fairline Boats Asia was held at the One15 Marina Club in Singapore last week. The event on Monday, November 8, was attended by 16 people, representing every dealer in the region.Since opening its dedicated regional office in late 2008, Fairline has seen substantial and continuing growth in both the number of dealers appointed and the volume of retail sales achieved.
Fairline 91 Day Boat Show Tour
A world leader in the provision of marine logistics, Peters & May has completed a major project covering four countries over three months for luxury motor yacht manufacturer, Fairline Boats. Peters & May handled the entire transportation of the Targa 50 Gran Turismo and Squadron 50 scale models throughout their latest boat show tour in advance of their world launch in 2011. Peters & May Air Freight Export Specialist, Stuart Chalcraft has been shipping scale Fairline models for several years and headed up the project. In addition to the transportation of the Fairline models to global events, Peters & May regularly ships the full-size versions throughout the world for Fairline Boats and its authorised dealers. Some of the shipments being managed by Peters & May this month include a Squadron 55 being transported from Southampton to Sydney, a Phantom 48 being shipped from Felixstowe to Singapore, and a Squadron 78 CUSTOM from Antwerp to Istanbul. Located at Peters & May's UK Head Office, the Marine Air Freight Team manages the transportation of marine cargo such as scale boat models, yacht sails, rigging and spars, engine spares, warranty equipment, general supplies, paint and gel coats as well as hazardous cargo including medical supplies by air.
Ferretti Custom Line Success in China
The Ferretti Group, a world leader within the sphere of the design, construction and sale of motoryachts which encompasses a unique portfolio of some of the most exclusive brands in the nautical world, has achieved further success in China. Indeed, through its brand, Ferretti Custom Line, the Group has signed an important sales contract with real estate company Xanadu South China Sea for Ferretti Custom Line 112’ Next a 34 metres super yacht. The reason this agreement is such an important success for the Ferretti Group is that 112 Next is one of the largest yachts ever to be sold in the country. The order was confirmed with a ceremony-cum-event celebrated in Sanya, Southern China, on the Island of Hainan. Ferretti Group’s top management attended, as well as dealer Speedo Marine, Xanadu South China Sea and a number of prestigious guests, including the Italian Consul in Guangzhou. 112’ NEXT will be one of the most exclusive luxury services available to guests of the sumptuous real estate and tourist complex of Xanadu South China Sea currently being built on the island of Hainan. She is also one of the largest motoryachts of a European shipyard ever to sail through Chinese waters. The yacht will, therefore, play a primary role in guaranteeing true added value to the structure, which will be one of the most important resorts in Southern China, consisting in a 5 star hotel, many beautiful villas, a spa, conference centre, landing pad for helicopters and private marina. Today, the new elite of Chinese High Net Worth Individuals considers the island of Hainan, with its luxuriant, uncontaminated nature, the best tourist resort in China. This significant result for both Ferretti Custom Line and the entire Ferretti Group was made possible both through the Group’s significant commitment to developing China’s nautical culture over the past few years, and the strategy which singled China out as one of the markets with highest potential.
Foutaine Pajot Teams Up with TradeWinds
French boatbuilder Fountaine Pajot has delivered its first two cruising catamarans to Magnus Lewin, CEO of fractional sailing firm the TradeWinds Group. The Galathea, renamed the Fountaine Pajot TradeWinds 70, and the Cumberland 46 will be operated by the TradeWinds Group in Guadeloupe. The Fountaine Pajot TradeWinds 70 has been customized to include special pulpit chairs and teak aft dive platforms, along with a new lounge deck flybridge. The Cumberland 46, delivered alongside the TradeWinds 70, will initiate TradeWinds powercat multi-hull operations. The two companies have also announced the launch of their partnership in a new fractional ownership programme, TradeWinds Fractionals. Based in Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, TradeWinds currently owns and operates a fleet of 22 catamaran yachts in 10 locations throughout the world. Its partnership with Fountaine Pajot will introduce new customers to the French catamaran brand.
Grand Banks Magazine to Relaunch in 2011
Grand Bank’s Spray magazine will re-launch in 2011 as an annual print edition. The new series will be packed with more stories and photos than ever. To receive it you must complete a subscription form at the company’s web site to confirm your correct mailing address on file.
Gulf Craft Majesty Wins Gulf Yachting Award
UAE boatbuilder Gulf Craft has won an Arabian Gulf Yachting Award for its flagship Majesty 125 superyacht. The yacht is a semi-custom fibreglass triple deck fly-bridge yacht, powered by twin MTU 2400hp engines. It made its global debut at Cannes earlier this year, followed by appearances at Monaco and Genoa.
Heesen Receives Two Gold Neptunes
Heesen Yachts is proud to announce that on October 26th in Palm Beach Florida the yachts Blind Date and Jems were each awarded with a Gold Neptune trophy, the highest recognition in yacht design. The 47-metre Heesen Blind Date takes the prize for Bespoke Furniture for the expanding dining table. The judges considered the expanding burl elm table, designed by Keech Green, the most serious piece of furniture shortlisted for this award and a true work of art. The design itself was inspired by the original 19th century Robert Juple table, but its 21st century incarnation impressed the judges with its intricate artistry, hand craftsmanship, and ingenious engineering that allow the table to expand to seat 12 by turning the top through 90 degrees. The 44-metre Heesen Jems takes the prize for Exterior Recreational Area. The judges appreciate the multi-use sundeck area comprising two spaces with numerous family and entertaining permutations centered around the bar and the spa pool. The judges lauded the innovation of the design of Eric Benqué. By making use of a few cleverly designed, space-saving furniture pieces – switchable table tops that raise or lower, seating that transform from bar stools into dining chairs, sun pad cushions that convert into multiple seating and lounging arrangements, plus a retractable outdoor movie screen guests can adapt the space to various activities or needs.
Jarret Bay for Vineyard Vines
Keeping true to their New England boating ties, the founding partners, CEOs and brothers behind the colorful tie and preppy apparel mega-retailer vineyard vines, Shep & Ian Murray, commissioned Jarrett Bay Boatworks to build a scale custom sportfish display for their newest store in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Installed this week at The Gardens Mall store on PGA Boulevard opening this November, the Jarrett Bay custom cockpit & tower showcase fixture will serve as the central checkout counter and the visual reinforcement of the brand's representation of the finer places and things life has to offer. Making quality products and offering the best customer service, while having fun along the way is a shared philosophy between vineyard vines and Jarrett Bay; one that is very apparent in the new store and will be expressed in grand fashion to a new consumer market.
Mainship Customer Loyalty Program
Mainship wants to reward it loyal owners with a new special program. If you now own or have ever owned a Mainship, you can save a ten percent discount on a new 2011 Mainship boat with factory-installed options. This offer for a new 2011 Mainship is valid between November 19, 2010 and February 19, 2011 to get your discount.
Marquis Yachts New Dealer
Erik Nelson, Vice President of Marquis Yachts, LLC has introduced La Jolla Yacht Group as a newly authorized Marquis dealer for California and Arizona. La Jolla Yacht Group is headquartered in San Diego, California and is led by industry veterans Steve Sillman and Daren Barone. The yacht dealership maintains Sales and Service offices in San Diego and Newport Beach, California. Marquis Yachts, LLC has recently announced very aggressive marketing plans for the Marquis brand. These plans include the introduction of several new models throughout the 2011 model year. La Jolla Yacht Group will be taking delivery of several new Marquis yachts in the coming weeks and months.
Moonen Wins Best Power Award
Moonen Shipyards is delighted to announce that the Moonen 124 Northlander has won the category Best Power 24-40 m at the ISS (International Superyacht Society) 2010 Design & Leadership Awards. The award was immediately placed prominently on display onboard the yacht, on display at the Fort Lauderdale boat show. Recognised as a benchmark for superlative achievement, the awards were presented on 28 October at the 20th Anniversary of ISS's Awards Gala in Fort Lauderdale. Northlander had made her first Atlantic crossing to take part in FLIBS, and her captain Peter Davey reported that the first Moonen 124 handled the very challenging seas and weather conditions exceptionally well. Styled by René van der Velden, Northlander has a gracefully balanced bow and stern, eye-catching fashion plates and a low superstructure profile. She offers the comfort, elegance and class of a 38-metre superyacht, while still retaining the intimate details that set a Moonen apart. Naval architect Stolk Marimecs was responsible for the smooth lines below the waterline, which ensure both comfort at sea and low fuel consumption levels. Northlander‘s interior was designed by Art-Line and makes full use of her significant volume. With countless features attractive to owners, guests, captains and crew, the Moonen 124 is ideal for charter and private use. The yard is currently building an even larger yacht for a repeat owner: The first Moonen 133, complete with her own submarine, is scheduled for delivery in 2012.
Outer Reef Delivered Down Under
The first Outer Reef 70 to Australia hit the shores this past week after an uneventful journey from Taiwan and a flawless offload in Port Kembla, Australia. Aroona, the Outer Reef 70 was built to Queensland Commercial Survey by her owners Andrew and Linda Prentice and will be put into pleasure cruising, fishing and diving charters on the Great Barrier Reef. All hands and her owners were up early on delivery day anxiously awaiting the go ahead from the Port Authority to see Aroona in the flesh since her voyage from Taiwan, akin to the likes of Christmas morning. Aroona was blessed with an excellent placement on deck which shielded her from the ravages of the open ocean. M/V Diamantgracht, the carrier vessel dodged a couple of typhoons on her way to the Southern Hemisphere and bucked some very high winds and nasty seas on her final leg of the journey. Considering the weather she encountered along the way, Aroona was remarkably clean and ready to show off her stuff to her new owners. After an uneventful 10 hour journey in 2-3 meter seas from Port Kembla, with pods of whales breaching and numerous dolphins riding the bow wave of Aroona, seemingly guiding her home, she arrived safe and sound at Outer Reefs docks and offices in Sydney. Aroona will be in Outer Reef’s ”Try Before you Buy” charter program, in which potential customers can spend a week or 2 aboard, fishing and diving in some of the most pristine waters in the world. If the perspective client decides to purchase an Outer Reef, their charter fees will be reimbursed. The Outer Reef 70 will go through the final commissioning process which will take about 2 weeks and once completed, she will head North to Cairns, where she will call this port her home base.
Riviera Success at Major Shows
Riviera, Australia’s most awarded pleasure boat builder has achieved multiple sales across its growing range at the recent Fort Lauderdale and Genoa International Boat Shows. The Americas release of the new Riviera 43 Open Flybridge, the 5000 and 5800 Sport Yachts at Fort Lauderdale were extremely well received by the market with significant sales being achieved from both the Sport Yacht and Flybridge lines. The Riviera floating display showcased six of company’s latest designs and once again the ‘I Luv Riv’ team greeted loyal Americas and international Riviera owners and boating enthusiasts. In the evening of day two of the show, Riviera hosted a cocktail party on its floating display for more than 250 VIP guests to mark the Americas release of the three new models. Guests were entertained by live music while enjoying champagne, hors d’oeuvres and a balmy Florida evening. Riviera Yachts USA Inc director Chris McCafferty said the new 43 Open Flybridge and Sport Yacht models with their efficient pod drive propulsion systems had impressed the American market with strong interest and firm sales being achieved over the five day show. The 51st annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and 50th annual Genoa International Boat Show are the largest and most esteemed boat shows for the Americas and Europe, and Riviera’s recent success at these two boat shows reaffirms people’s belief in Riviera and the brands long term integrity. Riviera’s director of sales and marketing for Europe, Africa and the Middle East David Taylor said this was Riviera’s 21st year at the Genoa International Boat Show, which is not only the largest show in Europe but the largest show in the world.
Riviera Down Under Summer Show Case
Australia’s largest luxury cruiser dealer network, R Marine, is hosting its annual Summer Showcase this month and what better way to cruise out of 2010 and leave all the woes of the world behind you as you propel forward into 2011 on board your very own luxurious Riviera. This could be your last chance to secure your dream boat and spend the festive season exploring some of Australia and New Zealand’s unspoiled waterways. In seven locations across Australia and New Zealand, Riviera’s R Marine Network will showcase millions of dollars of pure luxury in the form of brand new and pre-loved Riviera’s in selected models from across the Flybridge, Offshore Express and Sport Yacht ranges. All boats on display can be delivered before Christmas, don’t put off that life-changing decision any longer, spoil yourself this festive season with some great purchasing opportunities. Escape the rat-race and enjoy a relaxed Christmas and New Year on board your new five-star waterfront home. Relax and enjoy your boating more with the confidence of R Marine’s totally experienced and seasoned team, industry leading after sales advice and care, a full boating events calendar, nationwide support network, and a fleet of mobile service vans to assist you. Last year this event was a huge success with hundreds of boating enthusiasts from Whangarei in northern New Zealand to Fremantle in Western Australia inspecting both new and pre-loved models. Summer Showcase now is tipped to be one of Riviera’s largest sales events and will be held from November 19 to December 20 inclusively.
Riviera Casino Night
Dressed in black bow ties and tiaras, 80 Riviera owners approached their target by tender for a mission only Riviera agents could handle, a mission hosted by Riviera’s R Marine Pittwater. Among the Riviera owners were Peter and Denise Haig and Miles and Cathy Fink who boarded Refuge Bay’s first ever floating casino - Casino Riviera. Riviera, Australia’s most awarded pleasure boat builder gave each participant $250,000 in Riviera cash to be gambled on the tables in a night packed with fun, live entertainment, fine wine and food, followed by an auction at the end of the night where Riviera owners used their winnings to bid on a selected range of Riviera items. For instance, a Riviera cap went under the hammer for $250,000 and $2 million was the highest bid for a Royal Motor Yacht Club Newport boat owner’s annual membership subscription. R Marine Pittwater dealer Principal Bruce Mitchell said Riviera organized for a mobile cappuccino boat to visit the 30 plus boats that were moored in the bay.
Sanlorenzo Join SYBAss
Italian superyacht builder Sanlorenzo has joined the Superyacht Builder Association (SYBAss). This year Sanlorenzo launched the 46 Steel, a semi-widebody, three-deck bulbous bow superyacht of 499GT, and the largest yacht ever built by Sanlorenzo. Membership to SYBAss requires a builder to have delivered at least three motor or sail boats over 40m in the last 10 years and current members include Dutch yard Royal Huisman and US builder Trinity Yachts. Sanlorenzo has three 46 Steel hulls to be delivered in 2011 for their owners and three more hulls are under negotiation for the 2012 season. The principal activity areas of the SYBAss are to: improve the members' representation in the biggest events; cooperate with the authorities in order to guarantee regulations take care of the needs and challenges of the yachting world; ensure to align the professional level with the present superyacht requirements.
Sealine New Dealer
Sealine has announced the appointment of Vendée Plaisance as its new dealer for Brittany and the Atlantic coast of France. With more than 40 years' experience in the leisure marine sector, Vendée Plaisance will provide a full range of sales and aftersales services for both new and existing Sealine owners living in or visiting Brittany and the Atlantic coast. Vendée Plaisance, which started trading in 1969, is a leading operator in the sale of new and used motorboats while also providing a full range of support services for customers. The company now has three dealerships with the main offices located in Saint Gilles Croix de Vie and the other outlets located in Saint Jean de Monts and Noirmoutier.
Sunseeker Wins Connoisseur Award
The Galadari group was delighted to win the Sunseeker award for ‘the ultimate style statement’ at the Connoisseur’s night 2010 that was held in Dubai on 3 November 2010. Gulf Connoisseur, the Gulf’s leading luxury lifestyle magazine, hosted ‘a night of excellence’ in splendor at the Armani Hotel in Dubai. 350 discerning guests attended to celebrate the first ‘Connoisseurs’ Night’ that saw the key players in luxury vying for the ‘Connoisseur Award.’ This award has been established as a celebration of ultimate achievement in luxury. The awards are given to congratulate the key players in the luxury spectrum, who have taken that extra step to represent the highest form of craftsmanship & exceptional service offering, differentiating themselves from others. The awards were chosen by a panel of six judges, who are connoisseurs themselves in different fields and who set out to recognise the very best in the latest, outstanding luxury products. The panel consisted of Jay Mehta, Mishal Kanoo, Paul Griffiths, Ian Gorsuch, Queenie Singh Dhody and Ali Mimar. The panel chose from a small group of nominations in each of the various categories, which range from jewelry and fashion to private jets and exotic destinations. Other winners at the awards night included Aston Martin, Rolls Royce, Vertu, Chanel and Louis Vuitton.
Sunseeker Wins Showboats Design Award
Sunseeker is delighted to announce that the Predator 130, Evil Zana, has recently won the Naval Architecture: MotorYacht award at the ShowBoats Design Awards 2010. The event took place on 26 October at the exclusive Mar A Lago Club in Palm Beach, Florida. Following a two-day Superyacht Design Symposium, 350 guests gathered for an evening of cocktails, a gala dinner and Awards ceremony honouring the superyacht industry’s creative talents; the architects, designers, stylists, craftsmen, and innovators in yacht technologies. The jury compromised four superyacht owners specifically chosen for their interest in design issues; two naval architects, a senior yacht captain, an experienced yacht chef, and six design professionals with no links to the superyacht industry. With more than 200 nominations for The Showboat Design Awards 2010, it was an incredibly tough task for the experienced panel.
Cabo presented an innovative take on a new model with the 44 Hardtop Express in the Fort Lauderdale show. Replacing the 45 Express, the new Cabo 44 Hardtop Express takes a better look to the pleasure market, and splits a good division between the often separated two boating worlds. Cabo is not the first here as the Australian Riviera has since 2007 already presented two models with a similar concept. But with all the attention going for the all weather three part covered hardtop, the 44 Hardtop Express still challenges the fisherman's with what the builder says is the largest aft deck of the category. If this is bigger as Cabo says to the 45 Express it replaces, then it is surely one of largest as the American builder is known to have among the largest cockpits in size category. The 44 also improves interior offering below, with more space and berths to the old 45, with a two stateroom plan. Hull design continues Cabo partnership with renowned underwater specialist Michael Peters, who presents a medium Vee sixteen degrees aft shape. Power is four choices from a standard Cummins 715hp up to twin Cats 1150hp engines. 
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