Spain

Astilleros Armon

Yachts attending the Monaco F1 Grand Prix 2024

We unveil the details of the yachts set to make an appearance in Monaco for the upcoming Formula 1 Grand Prix 2024 race season.


Yachts attending the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix 2024

Delivered in 2021, the 68.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> catamaran <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wayfinder68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2021">Wayfinder</a> has been designed with entertainment in mind. Currently available for charter with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a>, the support vessel showcases a range of amenities onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299378/image/large-01dfdd0fff6e415a8e1ff32d4f20717a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299378"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wayfinder68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2021">Wayfinder</a> displays exterior design and naval architecture penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1377" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Incat Crowther (Company)">Incat Crowther</a>, while her interior design derived from the drawing boards of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5187" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oliver Design (Company)">Oliver Design</a>. She is available for charter as a charter yacht in her own right or as a support vessel to a mothership. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wayfinder68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2021">Wayfinder</a> can accommodate up to 12 charter guests across her 11 staterooms, including nine single staterooms and two twin staterooms, complete with ensuites. SuperYacht Times takes a closer look onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299369/image/large-b5d9f29fb2d0b22f9d8bca3c4f4d10c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299369"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299370/image/large-ac9e63e79028d1a0fed8c90ebf495823.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299370">The upper deck houses the yacht’s staterooms, which can double as accommodation for professional staff, depending on the vessel’s function. A muted colour palette extends across the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wayfinder68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2021">Wayfinder</a>’s staterooms, featuring soft fabrics and ocean-inspired furnishings.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299371/image/large-4f01b228af6de90baaf947e488877fcd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299371">The 1,737 GT catamaran yacht displays an inviting saloon overlooking the heli-deck in which a large L-shaped sofa surrounds a wooden coffee table. Neutral tones blend with terracotta furnishings to form a bright interior, while rectangular overlapping light fixtures enhance the sense of modernity onboard. Large windows provide guests with clear views of the extensive touch-and-go helipad while they wait for their helicopter transfer.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299373/image/large-a5209b54e1927ea9cc2f615d735e2e2a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299373">While the extensive open aft deck offers seamless access to and from the yacht, the space can also function as a pickleball court when not in use, keeping guests entertained during their stay onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299376/image/large-9bfa822fea9dc0e090f07c1a7cd21b3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299376"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299374/image/large-f9d1cf1a15f310fcdbbbb2ef1dd54111.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299374">In addition to a cosy saloon, guests can enjoy panoramic sea-views from the comfort of two formal dedicated dining areas. Technical spaces onboard include a large galley, featuring stainless steel amenities, while the raised wheelhouse showcases a number of glass panels to the bow, allowing clear vision for her captain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299377/image/large-ba26adbf68f8f19ff3e305b1d1872d24.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299377"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299383/image/large-449df084321edbd93e5107fcf11012d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299383"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299384/image/large-0d6dd243eb79417a3f76d75f3a75b6e8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299384"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299382/image/large-6728cfc20bcc0e79c31e3dad15b69419.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299382">The catamaran houses tenders and toys on her main deck, ranging from Jet Skis to Seabobs and paddleboards, while her lower deck showcases an expansive beach club and fully equipped gym. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wayfinder68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2021">Wayfinder</a>’s gym directly overlooks the ocean, providing guests with the perfect spot to embrace their serene surroundings. Given her large volume, the catamaran can store up to six tenders and four Sea-Doos onboard, ensuring guests remain entertained throughout their charter experience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299381/image/large-10a72f0fb15b41bdaa388a98d6956b66.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299381"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wayfinder68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2021">Wayfinder</a> is currently the largest yacht to be built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> to date. In terms of performance, the support vessel is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, providing her with a top speed of up to 21 knots and a cruising speed of 14 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/193088/image/large-3f5da8667ce5f7190ef4ecd905da65b7.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/193088">

Astilleros Armon support vessel Wayfinder interiors

Delivered in 2021, the 68m Astilleros Armon support vessel Wayfinder has been designed with entertainment in mind. 

Onboard 68m Astilleros Armon support vessel Wayfinder

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/282324/image/large-59a91c3327d555f6a688b3e793f52b1a.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/282324">Spotted recently anchored off Beaulieu-sur-Mer in the South of France, is the 68.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> support yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a>. Delivered in 2022, she is the latest catamaran to be launched from the Spain-based yacht builder’s ShadowCat series, which includes the 68.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wayfinder68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2021">Wayfinder</a> and the 66.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7280" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hodor66.2m (217'2&quot;)Astilleros Armon2019">Hodor</a>. Entirely constructed out of aluminium, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a> features both exterior and interior design from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6050" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Schwalgien Yacht Design (Company)">Schwalgien Yacht Design</a>, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1377" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Incat Crowther (Company)">Incat Crowther</a> were responsible for her naval architecture. The 2,136 GT catamaran has been penned with three decks, and boasts an impressive 15.5-metre beam. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a>’s foredeck has been reserved for guest enjoyment, while the aft deck has been adapted for tenders and toys storage. The support yacht also features a helipad and hanger.

68m support yacht Nebula in the South of France

The 68m support yacht Nebula, built by Astilleros Armon, is seen here anchored in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, France.

Tecnomar 44m power catamaran This Is It

SuperYacht Times took an exclusive technical tour of This Is It, previously known as Project Illusion, Tecnomar's radical 44m power catamaran.

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Illusion made reality: Building Tecnomar's radical 44m power catamaran This Is It

The worlds largest yacht support vessels

SuperYacht Times takes a look at the largest yacht support vessels that are currently in operation from across the globe.

The world’s largest yacht support vessels

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272219/image/large-8a97ce016101b1d90e7b800d209b332d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272219">Spotted recently anchored in the Fethiye Bay in Turkey, is the 66-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> support yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7280" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hodor66.2m (217'2&quot;)Astilleros Armon2019">Hodor</a>. Built by the Spanish shipyard in 2019, the catamaran features naval architecture and exterior lines by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1377" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Incat Crowther (Company)">Incat Crowther</a>, while her interior comes from the drawing boards of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5187" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oliver Design (Company)">Oliver Design</a>. Her design is based on successful offshore crew supply models built on the same multihull platform and heavily modified for the luxury yacht market, without sacrificing any of its oceangoing capabilities. With a volume of 1,582 GT, the multihull <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7280" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hodor66.2m (217'2&quot;)Astilleros Armon2019">Hodor</a> was built to provide support to her mothership, the 87-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lonian87.0m (285'5&quot;)Feadship2018">Lonian</a>, by carrying a fleet of five customised tenders, toys and landing craft in addition to crew, staff and supplies that the pair need on their voyages. Get a closer look <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/50029" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="First Look: Onboard the 66m support yacht Hodor (2019-06-18 09:30:00 +0200)">onboard Hodor here</a>.

Astilleros Armon support yacht Hodor in Fethiye

The 66m support yacht Hodor, built by Astilleros Armon, is seen here anchored in the Fethiye Bay in Turkey.

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271404/image/large-7ee47094714289dfda2cdaeed4cee334.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271404">Spotted last month docked in the Falmouth Harbour in Antigua, is the 68.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> support yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a>. Delivered in 2022, she is the latest catamaran to be launched from the Spain-based yacht builder’s ShadowCat series, which includes the 68.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wayfinder68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2021">Wayfinder</a> and the 66.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7280" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hodor66.2m (217'2&quot;)Astilleros Armon2019">Hodor</a>. Entirely constructed out of aluminium, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a> features both exterior and interior design from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6050" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Schwalgien Yacht Design (Company)">Schwalgien Yacht Design</a>, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1377" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Incat Crowther (Company)">Incat Crowther</a>&nbsp;were responsible for her naval architecture. The 2,136 GT catamaran has been penned with three decks, and boasts an impressive 15.5-metre beam. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a>’s foredeck has been reserved for guest enjoyment, while the aft deck has been adapted for tenders and toys storage. The support yacht also features a helipad and hanger.

Astilleros Armon support yacht Nebula in Antigua

The 68m support yacht Nebula, built by Astilleros Armon, is seen here docked in Antigua.

2023 St Barths Bucket Regatta yachts

The entry list for the 2023 St Barths Bucket  has been announced, with 26 yachts racing.

Yachts attending the 2023 St Barths Bucket Regatta

For any passionate sailor worth his salt, sailing aboard a classic J-Class yacht would be the pinnacle of their maritime career. For some however, life aboard the mythic J’s is not just a dream, but an everyday reality, and at times, an adrenaline overload. One of those rare few, is the Suffolk born Englishman, Will Gibbon, who has had the fortune to sail, cruise and live aboard not one, but two of these extraordinary vessels. Will is now in his fourth year as First Mate aboard the original 1933 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/192" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> J-Class, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>, but he began his career in the Class aboard the 41.55-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/792" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Danish Yachts (Company)">Danish Yachts</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a>, a Spirit of Tradition J-Class which was built as an exact replica of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sparkman & Stephens, Inc. (Company)">Sparkman &amp; Stephens</a>' Ranger, launched in 1937. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/77147/image/large-d465539bc3e1937d189bed1804c5859f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/77147">SYT’s Francesca Webster, caught up with Will, an old friend and wildly unsuccessful (on her part) first sailing coach, to talk about his entrance to the close knit world of classic yachts, his life aboard the sloops, and his all time best experiences.&nbsp;In his late teens, Will worked on the U.K.’s east coast for sailmaker John Parker at his loft OneSails GBR. The international team at OneSails cut cloth for some of the biggest names in the industry, designing sails for superyachts, as well as classics and dinghies. It was here that Will, already an experienced small boat sailor, began sailing and racing more frequently, eventually meeting English comedian Griff Rhys Jones and joining the race crew of his 1948 Bermudan <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sparkman & Stephens, Inc. (Company)">Sparkman &amp; Stephens</a> yawl, Argyll. After three years as race crew, Will stepped up to the 19-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife III</a> sloop <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mariquita38.1m (125'0&quot;)William Fife & Sons1911">Mariquita</a>, joining the permanent crew as deckhand. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/21917/image/large-0b83c5c1372e2212f045eeb9db383f5d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/21917">In 2015, the news was announced that the entire existing J-Class fleet, minus <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>'s sister ship <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/621" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Endeavour39.56m (129'9&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1934">Endeavour</a>, would be coming together in a momentous event at the 2017 America’s Cup in Bermuda. His passion for classic yachts already ignited, it was Will's firm ambition to join one of the Class and compete in the once in a lifetime regatta. Eventually his dream was recognised, with the invitation to join <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a> as deckhand. “The mate at the time was promoted to captain, and he took me on and I worked through the ranks, which is the best way to learn these yachts. Even though <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a> has had a refit since I was last aboard, I am still familiar with both of the yachts, having spent so much time aboard.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195515/image/large-74bdf602eba6143a336b0fe716023033.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195515">For many sailors who witnessed the 2017 America’s Cup, the spectacular show of the J-Class competition stood out as a pinnacle of the event. Processing through Hamilton Harbour, gigantic flags billowing at their stern, the J-Class yachts truly put on a show, and for Will it was a top moment of his career. “Bermuda is definitely the highlight for anyone that has sailed aboard these yachts in recent years, it is easily the highlight of my career.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195513/image/large-ce1f6035c0d913dfafb3f22b12e18447.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195513">It was not all fun and games however, the regatta was a serious affair and every owner, captain and crew wanted to take the top spot during the races. Racing on a yacht coming toward its centenary isn’t without its difficulties, and Bermuda posed some additional challenges for the crew. With the water temperature considerably hotter than the Mediterranean, and the yachts being pushed to their limits, sometimes with only thirty minutes between races. There wasn't much time to catch your breath, “One day we did three windward-leeward courses, which for a J-Class is massive, especially in the small space within the reef in Bermuda. The legs were really short so you’re running everything as hot as possible and down in the engine room it got to about 45-degrees, everything was bubbling a fair amount!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195512/image/large-d61bcbf043ee8584ce98502e67664278.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195512">After Bermuda, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a> wintered at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pendennis Shipyard Ltd (Company)">Pendennis</a>, and the following season, in 2018, Will joined the crew of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>, now as first mate. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> is one of the busiest yachts in the Class, competing year in, year out, usually participating in four regattas annually. As Will explained, many of the Class’ take a year out after big racing seasons like 2017 because the investment of time means less time for cruising, the other hugely rewarding part of owning a J-Class. The owner of one of the newest J's to the fleet, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/32" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Holland Jachtbouw (Company)">Holland Jachtbouw</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2632" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Topaz42.62m (139'10&quot;)Holland Jachtbouw2015">Topaz</a>, launched in 2015, fortunately shares the enthusiasm for racing clearly displayed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>’s owner, and the two yachts go bow-to-bow at almost every regatta. On the rare occasion that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> is the only J in the regatta fleet, she stands her ground on handicap against her contemporary counterparts, and in 2019 took the top spot at Les Voiles de St Tropez against the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rambler32.5m (106'8&quot;)Astilleros Armon1982">Rambler</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/276" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="McConaghy Boats (Company)">McConaughy Boats</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/314" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leopard 330.0m (98'5&quot;)McConaghy Boats2007">Leopard 3</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/79974/image/large-b99c0d0e6faa8dddb4ea6cd2c95239e9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/79974">Watching these iconic vessels sparring, be it in the Caribbean or off the coast of Southern France, one is struck by their grace; huge black carbon sails towering over hulls which look like pencils in the water. Despite their classic aesthetic however, these yachts are high performance beasts, as Will noted, “we are always pushing to get every last bit out of the boat, our rigger often reminds us ‘you only have to win by a second’.” Today the entire fleet features carbon masts and sails, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> has hydraulic winches and Future Fibres rigging, a big upgrade from a few years ago. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/77148/image/large-2b46575ac18ba220f40e375346d82ea0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/77148">When they aren’t competitively racing, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>’s owner joins the yacht throughout the year, and cruising is some of the crew’s favourite time aboard. When asked if a particular moment had stayed in Will's mind, a cruise in Greece when they spotted the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/192" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> 1934 J-Class <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/621" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Endeavour39.56m (129'9&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1934">Endeavour</a>, the vessel which lost to the American defender Rainbow&nbsp;by Vanderbilt, Herreshoff and Burgess, immediately came to mind. The two yachts were sailing along the same reach and the crew from both put their minds to a race.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/94598/image/large-1744f1ef1e5d64f42ace47e5920f5c88.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/94598">With <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/621" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Endeavour39.56m (129'9&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1934">Endeavour</a> almost never competing, and only the permanent crew of seven aboard, it was all hands on deck for their 20-minute spar, “that was a lot of fun, sailing short handed is some of the most fun you have and when we are cruising you go to some amazing places.” Sardinia is also a top spot for Will, and the Rolex Cup is one of his favourite regattas. Life aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> also has the additional benefit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1480" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bystander42.18m (138'5&quot;)JFA Yachts2006">Bystander</a>, a 42.18-metre superyacht that accompanies the J. The superyacht, which was built by JFA Yachts and launched in 2006, carries additional crew, support and supplies and provides the accommodation for the owner after a long day of racing aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/198077/image/large-07d8e02f9c2d3ccd509f5eda7c490c64.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/198077">For any sailer who hasa spent time aboard the classics, it is impossible not to touch on the maintenance of these yachts, which is a constant hum going on behind the scenes. Unlike their modern counterparts, many of which are made of carbon and GRP with wooden veneers, classic yachts demand constant work to retain them in pristine condition. Last year, while the pandemic raged across the world, and regattas were set aside, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>'s team took the opportunity to conduct her 25 year survey. When she was most recently rescued from the mud and restored, latterly in 1997, it was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/231" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southampton Yacht Services Ltd (Company)">Southhampton Yacht Services</a> that conducted the work. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/69138/image/large-f16e6c423018d56133aed37ba823be08.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69138">As for the future, Will has other dreams, but he can’t see himself stepping off of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> any time soon, the possibility of an America’s Cup season in New Zealand, or perhaps the United Kingdom, is too much of a draw. After all, once you’ve conquered some of the most coveted super sailing yachts in the world, how can you tear yourself away...This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news/superyacht-times-newspaper-issue-39" target="_blank">Issue 41 of SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>. To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

Interview with J-Class Velsheda First Mate

SYT sits down with Will Gibbon, professional sailor and First Mate aboard 1933 J-Class Velsheda. 

Velsheda: Life aboard a Golden Age J-Class

Following the successful launch of the 68.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a> earlier this year, featuring exterior and interior design from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6050" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Schwalgien Yacht Design (Company)">Schwalgien Yacht Design</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> is looking to expand its portfolio of monohull superyacht support vessels. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6050" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Schwalgien Yacht Design (Company)">Schwalgien Yacht Design</a> has now unveiled its first support yacht concept, the 65-metre Origami. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252815/image/large-3439419fd419eb8d03b541cb9ea34b86.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252815"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252822/image/large-48ee8967726909b0066dc20a98769aff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252822">"After the success of the Catamaran Support vessels we want to expand our portfolio to be able to cater for clients which prefer a monohull ", says Ricardo Garcia from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a>.Origami features an aluminium hull design that takes inspiration from the Japanese practice of folding paper. The technique has impacted how designers have perceived and built architecture and design since the 17th century. In the design, the paper has been replaced by aluminium plates, which have been folded to create angular and geometric forms across the superyachts superstructure.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252821/image/large-9925efe90bafb05fb7cfdfaecda16c43.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252821"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252818/image/large-94f43b2fb2ada8102c4c8848a6875e4c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252818">She features a beam of 12 meters and draft of approximately 3 meters will allow her to carry a fuel load for world wide operation in support of the mothership. Like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a> she features a helicopter hangar able to be used without folding the blades providing the ultimate protection to the helicopter and allowing the helicopter to travel worldwide with the yacht. The large tender deck has sufficient space for three large tenders or two tenders and a submarine plus an array of other water toys.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252814/image/large-26fd9d569ff9be36cd753109359f95b1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252814">The interior accommodation is arranged for a crew of 22 and also features a spacious crew lounge and gym. Depending on the specific client requirements the Interior layout can be arranged with flexibility to allow staff cabins, guest cabins or even scientific laboratories to be included.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252820/image/large-ecddb4f3c336520af840f0c91351e2cd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252820">The systems and engineering will be a continuous development of the standards and quality that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Armon</a> have produced to date. Combining latest equipment technology with their standards of proven reliability. With the various production facilities that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> and decades of commercial shipbuilding experience they are able to build boats in a highly efficient process and proud to offer exceptional short construction times that not many other shipyards are able to achieve.

Origami superyacht concept from Schwalgien Yacht Design

Unveiling the 65m Origami superyacht concept from Schwalgien Yacht Design.

Angular 65m support yacht concept Origami unveiled by Schwalgien Yacht Design and Astilleros Armon

While multihulls have hardly taken lift off over the last decade, with catamarans and trimarans remain around 2% of the global fleet (according to <a href="https://superyachttimes.ac-page.com/homepage" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SYT iQ</a>), in recent years we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of catamaran concepts, designs and launches. Many of the companies that have backed the multihull often cite efficiency, “eco-friendliness” and “sustainability” as key motivators for the adoption of the hull form. But what is the science behind these claims; and has there been enough of a significant &nbsp;change in the mentality of the yacht owner, to justify the number of designs which are flooding the market? We spoke to some of those companies to get an inside look at the multihull movement and how it might shape the future of the global fleet.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243152/image/large-9a5dff94462f873938f4847f3b172f72.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243152">Monohull or multihull?In an article published in 2010, naval architects James Roy and Alex Meredith Hardy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lateral Naval Architects (Company)">Lateral Naval Architects</a> weighed up the pros and cons facing the multihull conversation. Having created innumerable designs for fast ferries, and commercial catamarans over the years, both engineers were surprised that the yachting industry had been slow to uptake the hull form. With efficiency and high speeds (+40 knots) on offer, as well as the beamy main deck platform, some might consider catamarans an ideal substitute for a monohull. But aesthetics are everything in the yachting industry, and the boxy form of catamarans has failed to catch the eye of those owners who frequent the Mediterranean.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243181/image/large-c6914543e6f18b57554436d3995e9c7b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243181">The catamaran hull form does have hydrodynamic benefits. As Roy and Meredith Hardy wrote “by dividing the total displacement between two hulls, the displacement-to-length ratio is improved, and in turn the wave-making component of the total drag is substantially reduced.” In layman’s terms, catamarans can be more efficient than monohulls of the same GT due to reduced drag, but as Roy explained to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4509" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYacht Times (Company)">SYT</a>, points of comparison must be carefully defined, with GT, rather than length being the optimum comparison base.Despite the arguments around the improved efficiency of the hull form, many builders who dominate in the sector indicate more than this as driving the sustainability of the hull form. Many of the major players in the 24-30 metre catamaran sector – consider for example Sunreef, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">SILENT-YACHTS</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2504" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wider s.r.l. (Company)">Wider</a> – build hybrid-electric yachts that also utilise solar power. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218828/image/large-dcd5a1dbf422df667598b2cbecf72599.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218828">Franz Boese, Chief Marketing Officer of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">SILENT-YACHTS</a> commented, “Technically speaking, it makes much more sense to create a solar powered multihull than a monohull. The main reason is space. With the wider beam of a catamaran, there is more space to install solar panels. This increases the potential energy production of the yacht, which is crucial to create a well-rounded experience on board, without any compromises or limitations.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218831/image/large-7ef1fbb54c2ffb89d751ffa81dba1ce1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218831">Marcello Maggi, who heads up W-Fin Sarl, the holding Company that owns 100% of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2504" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wider s.r.l. (Company)">Wider</a> equity, shared this sentiment, “From an engineering point of view, the greater width compared to a monohull allows the exploitation of a greater surface area intended for the use of solar panels, an additional source of energy for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2504" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wider s.r.l. (Company)">Wider</a> serial hybrid propulsion system.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243905/image/large-fa2344bdde9cba8bb8b55ce4d2e91124.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243905">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef Yachts</a> Eco yacht series feature both sail and power cats, taking the solar concept a step further with its innovative ‘solar skin’ – an in-house technology that takes the solar concept to the next level by coating the hull with integrated solar panels. Aside from the solar benefit, the vessels incorporate wind generators, custom-engineered lithium batteries, non-toxic paints and green composite structures, demonstrating that it takes more than a hull form alone to create an ‘eco’ yacht. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/217058/image/large-d28cbdee1e2d1407c74edcb10d9b1c85.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/217058">Francis Lapp, Founder and President of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef Yachts</a> commented, “Twenty years ago nobody believed in our approach. Today, the trend for big multihulls is a fact – everyone wants to build them. Customer expectations have changed. Superyacht owners look for a better length-to-volume ratio, more stability, fuel efficiency and green solutions. They seek wide open spaces to enjoy with friends and family. They want to be close to the sea.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251286/image/large-3e33021915747466f5a12828db013070.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251286">Of course unlike many of its competitors, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> also offers a sailing catamaran as part of its <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> Eco range, Lapp summarised the pros and cons; “sail yachts have the obvious advantage of wind propulsion. On top of that, we use hydro generation – this means our sail yachts recover energy from the propellers’ rotation while under sail. Power yachts on the other hand, offer more space for solar panels – for example on the bow terrace. They can also be fitted with a kite.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/245765/image/large-c37cd86ae4bdebe0c439296808589483.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/245765">Gaining momentumAt the 2021 <a href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2021">Monaco Yacht Show</a>, local designer Espen Øino of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/82" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Espen Øino International (Company)">Espen Øino International</a> took to the stage of the Design and Innovation Hub to discuss the topic of sustainable yacht design. He cited the potential of the catamaran and SWATH (Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull) hull forms for their efficiency. Øino had only recently unveiled a catamaran design in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/899" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SilverYachts (Company)">SilverYachts</a>, the SpaceCat, the first of which was sold in May this year. Referring to catamarans as the “SUV of the seas'', Øino recognised that the hindrance to catamaran popularity has, so far, been their characteristically boxy aesthetic, but he also firmly predicted that we will be seeing far more multi-hull vessels in the coming years a sentiment which has been echoed by many in the industry.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/172375/image/large-c77b325f21127c39ffc63a73dfa2af05.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/172375">Not only have we seen a larger number of catamaran concepts entering the scene over the past few years, but there have also been a number of shipyards focusing their attention on this area of the industry for the first time. In December last year, Italian shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a> unveiled its first catamaran concept, the dramatic and eye-catching 43-metre hybrid Sea Cat 40, the first hull of which was sold in June. This initial foray into the sector was then followed in May with the release of the 44-metre Oneiric with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6728" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zaha Hadid Architects (Company)">Zaha Hadid Architects</a>, demonstrating a real investment into the hull form. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/229232/image/large-e0f6cd066759376d6c862f8cd87bb77f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/229232"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a> has been developing this series of catamarans for over a year and will unveil at least two more designs in coming months using a fully developed platform. Federico Rossi, COO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a> explained, “We are invested in creating vessels with a reduced carbon footprint. and we have a diesel-electric yacht currently under construction. But we want to be innovative now, without having to wait for alternative fuels such as hybrid propulsion. We believe the best way that we can improve the efficiency and therefore sustainability of our vessels is by employing the catamaran hull form and that is why we have entered this sector.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/229225/image/large-7a148124a3516af9004eafc5b52a9141.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/229225">Multiple hulls = multiple benefitsHistorically plagued by criticism for their looks, it would appear that many owners are coming around to the style and aesthetics of catamarans – or,at least, that they are willing to overlook them in light of the varied benefits the hull form offers. Recent additions to the global fleet include the 65m support vessel <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7280" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hodor66.2m (217'2&quot;)Astilleros Armon2019">Hodor</a> and the 68m <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wayfinder68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2021">Wayfinder</a> from Spanish shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/83673/image/large-c39a02cf7e80bf63ad8e7b2022beac0f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/83673">Unlike the smaller cats from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">SILENT-YACHTS</a>, the two vessels have been specifically chosen for the width and stability they offer, making them able to carry a huge selection of tenders and toys. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7280" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hodor66.2m (217'2&quot;)Astilleros Armon2019">Hodor</a> has a 14-metre beam, a helipad, a fleet of tenders, the largest of which is 17-metres, an ROV launched from a purpose built crane, a dive centre with decompression chamber, a selection of four-wheel drive vehicles and a full suite of toys. All of this alongside cabins for 20 crew and a number of guests in luxury accommodations.&nbsp;As previously mentioned, the benefits of multiple hulls have many, and the companies discussed here have a firm belief in the growing popularity of the hull form. As Marcello Maggi of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2504" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wider s.r.l. (Company)">Wider</a> concluded, “We believe that our catamaran is a catalyst for several elements that make her suitable for a customer choice. The abundance of the surfaces that can accommodate the cutting-edge mini solar panels that avoid turning on the endothermic devices, increasing the comfort aboard with limited noise and vibration, and these are some of the strength points of this innovative product.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/217057/image/large-cdb33dec87739692a755aa801b46f5e5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/217057">All of the companies we spoke with shared the same sentiment; that clients are opening up to the concept of a catamaran, many in part for the various “green” benefits they offer, be it additional solar panel positioning, hydrodynamic benefits and hybrid potential. As Federico Rossi commented, “We hear clients saying right now, ‘We are ready to move into the multihull sector’ and I think part of this drive is to do with a new generation of owners who are focused for the first time on leaving the world in a better position than they found it. They have a greener vision of the world and share a feeling of responsibility toward the oceans and so it doesn’t surprise me that there is a movement toward catamarans for these Millennial owners.”With at least 30 catamaran’s of sizes ranging from from 24 to 56 metres currently in-build, we will certainly be seeing an increase in the sector over the coming years, and from the opinions shared above, it is fair to say that the trend is only just beginning to take shape… so watch this space.&nbsp;This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-42" target="_blank">Issue 42 of SuperYacht Times newspaper.</a>&nbsp;To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

The future of Catamarans in the superyacht industry

With catamaran concepts flooding the industry, SYT finds out if they really could be the 'sustainable' future of the superyacht fleet.

Catamarans: Fad or Future?

Today’s catamarans are nothing like the boxy, heavy designs of the past. Sleek and stylish, modern catamarans, like those created by award-winning <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">SHADOWCAT</a>, are turning heads in the superyacht and yachting sectors – and for very good reason. More economical to operate, catamarans are faster, more stable, generously sized and can enter hard-to-access shallow destinations. For these reasons, and more, today’s sexy catamaran yachts are enticing new buyers.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/83673/image/large-c39a02cf7e80bf63ad8e7b2022beac0f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/83673">Why go multi-hull?In short, because they offer thalassophiles more. Based upon two generous hulls, catamarans offer significantly more stability over a monohull vessel. Support yachts, in particular, benefit from this fundamental feature. For example, the additional stability of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">SHADOWCAT</a>’s unique catamaran hull – designed exclusively by world-renowned naval architect <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1377" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Incat Crowther (Company)">Incat Crowther</a> – means that 70 percent more weight can be craned off the side, by way of knuckle-boom cranes for a single-point lift of tenders and beam cranes for secure lifts of larger vessels. This translates to greater safety and confidence during at-sea activities, such as the loading and unloading tenders or during crew transfers.Along with the incomparable stability, catamarans create less draft, giving owners access to shallow atolls or the ability to anchor along any number of stunning beaches around the world, with smaller boats and tenders, SCUBA equipment, ATVs and more in tow.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/193808/image/large-acd43cb3a6413c19b2166c4ba6b1fffc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/193808">Double the funSpeaking of toys, the catamaran hull design allows support yachts to carry more of them. With a 40 percent greater capacity than a similarly sized monohull vessel, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">SHADOWCAT</a>’s fully bespoke catamaran designs include multi-deck storage for pleasure craft of many sizes, plus an optional helipad on the top deck, and more. Customisable for any number of luxuries, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">SHADOWCAT</a>’s mid-deck offers ample room for center-console or speed boats, quad bikes, submarine, dive room and decompression chamber, fresh flower shop, personal gym, and wellness centre outfitted with youth-preserving hyperbaric technology, in addition to expansive lounging areas for guests and sleeping quarters for crew. The spacious design even has a special lifting platform designed for the quick launch of smaller vessels, such as jet skis. This commodious layout is made possible only because of the impressive design of the catamaran platform upon which the shadow vessel is built.A “greener” optionA catamaran hull design is also an environmentally friendly one, requiring less fuel for extended excursions. The needed fuel load for a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">SHADOWCAT</a> catamaran hull is an estimated 40 percent less than that of a comparable monohull due to the vessel’s hull efficiency. Even with lower fuel usage, catamarans travel more quickly than monohulls. One of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">SHADOWCAT</a>’s more recently delivered vessels, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wayfinder68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2021">Wayfinder</a>, offered speeds of 22+ knots, a highly competitive clip for a vessel of its size and class. This get-up-and-go is ideal when a vessel is trying to move ahead of foul weather or arrive at a desirable destination quickly to prepare for the mother vessel’s arrival.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240848/image/large-fac68274c945fd9e2ed386a125e54238.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240848">Space aplenty for crewWhen it comes to accommodations, catamarans offer the greatest capacity and flexibility of any shadow vessel on the market. Making more room on the mother superyacht for family and friends, owners can opt to house all crew members and staff aboard a catamaran shadow vessel, dedicating space for privacy and rest for everyone. Trained receiving crew aboard the support vessel can assist with the loading and unloading of tenders and helicopters, without compromising service or space aboard the mother vessel. Crew aboard the catamaran support yacht can also shuttle between the two vessels aboard tenders, reducing the overall number of staff maintained on the mother superyacht. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/193810/image/large-76da8d1f928226aac70041e4255a7db3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/193810">Catamarans are captivating, yet highly practical Catamarans generally make a lot of sense for the yachting industry, but especially for support yachts, because they deliver more by way of capacity, speed, stability and economy than similarly sized monohulls.&nbsp;“Even before this trend really started to pick up, we crafted <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">SHADOWCAT</a> to be built upon one of the world’s most stable hulls, as designed by our partner <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1377" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Incat Crowther (Company)">Incat Crowther</a>, because we knew it would provide owners with extreme confidence about the vessel’s stability when loading and unloading cargo,” said Robert Smith, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6855" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YCTS (Company)">YCTS, Ltd</a>. and founding partner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">SHADOWCAT</a>. “Marry that stability with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">SHADOWCAT</a>’s unlimited flexibility and customisation specific to even the most scrupulous owner’s needs, and it is easily the perfect shadow vessel.”By all indications, the catamaran comeback is here to stay. Learn more about <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">SHADOWCAT</a> at theshadowcat.com or by visiting the company’s Stand AL 14 during the <a href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2022">Monaco Yacht Show</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240847/image/large-37dd421f3fa0364669997b0c5bf04f0c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240847">About&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">ShadowCAT</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">ShadowCAT</a> is an innovative, award-winning support yacht series, created with unmatched expertise and cutting-edge technology. With three bespoke catamarans in the series launched to date, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">ShadowCAT</a> now boasts catamaran and monohull platforms, applying its state-of-the-art approach to design, engineering and construction. With naval architecture and design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1377" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Incat Crowther (Company)">Incat Crowther</a>, of Sydney, Australia, and multi-award winning vessel construction by respected Spanish shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armón</a>, the brand continues to provide fully custom solutions to the support yacht market segment. The first vessel in the series, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7280" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hodor66.2m (217'2&quot;)Astilleros Armon2019">Hodor</a>, set the industry aflame with its win of the inaugural “Support Vessel of the Year” at the International Superyacht Awards.

Catamaran support yachts

We took a closer look at catamaran support yachts and why they are the best.

The catamaran comeback: Top reasons why they are the perfect support yacht platform

SuperYacht Times Synopsis June

The SuperYacht Times Synopsis, as brought to you by SYT iQ, gives you the rundown of the top business stories and market reports from last month. 

SYT Synopsis: Breaking yacht news from June 

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a>, the 68.2-metre support yacht by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> has been spotted on her maiden voyage. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/231502/image/large-237603a959eefdfc8dd4e467150b7a81.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/231502"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a> is the latest catamaran to be launched from the Spain-based yacht builder’s Shadowcat series, which includes the 68.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wayfinder68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2021">Wayfinder</a> and the 66.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7280" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hodor66.2m (217'2&quot;)Astilleros Armon2019">Hodor</a>. She features exterior design from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6050" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kirsten Schwalgien Design (Company)">Kirsten Schwalgien Design</a> with Naval Architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1377" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Incat Crowther (Company)">Incat Crowther</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/231504/image/large-742b49b2f2de2b08b48a9ee26969ced5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/231504">The 2,050 GT catamaran has been penned with three decks and boasts an impressive 14-metre beam. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a>’s aft has been reserved for guest enjoyment, while the forward deck has been adapted for tender and toy storage. The support yacht also features a helipad and hanger. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/231503/image/large-c4e070c2b5182fbce1cb5d5d90fbc3fd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/231503"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nebula68.2m (223'9&quot;)Astilleros Armon2022">Nebula</a> strikes an imposing silhouette thanks to a crisp, heavy-set two-toned grey palette that’s struck through with a vivid streak of yellow. Her aft section dons striking orange hues, which further her masculine appearance.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/231505/image/large-113030bbdb7b55c24b692440697d4afd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/231505">She is the second largest yacht to be built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a>.&nbsp;

Astilleros Armon’s 68m support catamaran Nebula on maiden voyage

Nebula, the 68m support yacht by Astilleros Armon spotted on her maiden voyage. 

In pictures: Astilleros Armon’s 68m support catamaran Nebula on maiden voyage

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224774/image/large-dfb8cca505a438062e5463b428664226.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224774">Currently anchored off Lahaina in Hawaii, United States, is the 87-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lonian87.0m (285'5&quot;)Feadship2018">Lonian</a> and her support yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7280" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hodor66.2m (217'2&quot;)Astilleros Armon2019">Hodor</a>. Built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> and delivered in 2018, motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lonian87.0m (285'5&quot;)Feadship2018">Lonian</a> is the design work of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/926" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design (Company)">Sinot Yacht Architecture &amp; Design</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4772" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Richard Hallberg Interior Design (Company)">Richard Hallberg Interior Design</a>. Some of her highlights on board include an extended aft deck beach club setup with a large pool along the centreline, an outdoor gym on the bridge deck aft as well as helicopter landing capabilities on the upper deck. Behind her elegant curves, the 66-metre silhouette of her support yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7280" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hodor66.2m (217'2&quot;)Astilleros Armon2019">Hodor</a> is emerging. Built by the Spanish shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> in 2019, the catamaran features naval architecture and exterior lines by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1377" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Incat Crowther (Company)">Incat Crowther</a>, while her interior comes from the drawing boards of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5187" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oliver Design (Company)">Oliver Design</a>. The cruising pair operates in tandem with the 1,582 GT multihull <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7280" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hodor66.2m (217'2&quot;)Astilleros Armon2019">Hodor</a> providing support to her mothership by carrying a fleet of five customised tenders, toys and landing craft in addition to crew, staff and supplies that the pair need on their voyages. Get a closer look <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/50500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship's 87m superyacht Lonian unveiled (2019-10-08 17:00:00 +0200)">onboard Lonian here</a> and step <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/50029" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="First Look: On board the 66m support yacht Hodor (2019-06-18 09:30:00 +0200)">onboard Hodor there</a>.

Feadship superyacht Lonian and support yacht Hodor in Hawaii

The 87m superyacht Lonian, built by Feadship and the 66m support yacht Hodor, built by Astilleros Armon, are seen here anchored in Hawaii.