Scotland

G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd

The 55.4-metre classic motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2831" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Madiz55.4m (181'9&quot;)Ailsa Shipyard1902">Madiz</a> is now on the market. The yacht, which was launched in 1902 by the Scottish yard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1642" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ailsa Shipyard (Company)">Ailsa Shipyard</a> in Troon, is offered for sale by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons International</a> broker Jean-Marie Recamier and yacht sales advisor Jessica Ruez.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303565/image/large-3f658f1b58993d63c8b6a1e64c871288.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303565">An incredibly unique <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/madiz" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht, Madiz, for sale</a>, is one of the few motor yachts of her size to have survived from the early 20th century and is the oldest vessel in operation to have <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/554" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lloyds Ships (Company)">Lloyd</a>'s classification. As many as 14 guests are accommodated aboard the yacht between spacious staterooms on the main and lower deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303582/image/large-26bc6a9e4be10ea2e9ee5339ac77b6af.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303582"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303581/image/large-cafd7d9986a7670697b0b6b014a7b913.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303581"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303579/image/large-88f492312f31a8997c26de8d9f4296c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303579">Originally commissioned by James Coates Junior, from his friend and now legendary yacht designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/275" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd (Company)">G L. Watson</a>, Madiz served an as Auxiliary Patrol Service for the Royal Navy during the First World War. The vessel was then returned to her status as a luxury yacht in 1920 and passed through the hands of several British yachtsmen, but it was not long before she was again called to naval service during the Second World War.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303589/image/large-7bcf6b7b48cde74eee8e48bcd611b776.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303589"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303590/image/large-fd6660f25340c4e64a6f1b3aa9868fab.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303590"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303592/image/large-e5539c64de1e5618771d975cda482435.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303592">Post-World War II, the yacht was acquired by the Honourable John North, second son of the 8th Earl of Guilford and with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2831" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Madiz55.4m (181'9&quot;)Ailsa Shipyard1902">Madiz</a>, he headed for the Mediterranean. In 1968, North decided to sell the yacht and she was laid up in Piraeus until she inspired Greek businessman Costas Keletsekis to become her owner. Keletsekis equipped <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2831" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Madiz55.4m (181'9&quot;)Ailsa Shipyard1902">Madiz</a> with new engines and refitted the boat in 2003 to bring her back into class with Lloyds Register. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303596/image/large-ccbe5841f150965ec11678990358d3c2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303596"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303594/image/large-7914e7bb2bfa7594085b963a9cd85754.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303594"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303595/image/large-152f0181b96ed9dd3e6243f81121c5ca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303595">40 years later, in 2010, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> was acquired by her current owners and has been lovingly cared for as an icon of classic yachting style. Today, this steel-hulled <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> is powered by two <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1823" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mercedes (Company)">Mercedes</a> 250 horsepower engines.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303575/image/large-045e9cefa84945d1a602018d6a73a2c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303575"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303571/image/large-a3c120c04fe991a0ae21a79a955440d1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303571">She typically operates with a crew of 10 and is served by a 6 metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/363" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Riva S.p.A. (Company)">Riva</a> Superflorida tender as well as a 6 metre classic launch. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2831" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Madiz55.4m (181'9&quot;)Ailsa Shipyard1902">Madiz</a> is available for viewings by appointment in Perama, Greece.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303602/image/large-a77997924dbee4f10d451c74e4c51994.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303602">

Classic yacht Madiz for sale

The 55m classic motor yacht Madiz is now on the market. 

120 year old classic 55m motor yacht Madiz for sale

The 39.62-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vosper Thornycroft (Company)">Vosper Thornycroft</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5467" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amazone39.62m (129'12&quot;)Vosper Thornycroft1936">Amazone</a> has been transported from Le Havre, France to Falmouth, United Kingdom as part of the first stage in her extensive restoration and rescue mission.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/24065/image/large-3c28cff562a14d3b8bb38e311e305f54.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24065">Built in 1936, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5467" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amazone39.62m (129'12&quot;)Vosper Thornycroft1936">Amazone</a> was used as a houseboat for over 20 years on the river Seine in northern France. An ambitious two week program saw her acquired, prepared for towage and loaded onto the 214.17-metre DYT semi-submersible Yacht Servant and delivered to Falmouth.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5467" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amazone39.62m (129'12&quot;)Vosper Thornycroft1936">Amazone</a> was unloaded and transferred to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pendennis Shipyard Ltd (Company)">Pendennis Shipyard</a>, where she will be refitted and restored. Her rescue mission was organised by Nicholas Edmiston and William Collier of classic yacht experts <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/275" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd (Company)">G.L. Watson &amp; Co,</a> with collaboration from Mike Herrebrugh of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/311" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sevenstar Yacht Transport B.V. (Company)">Sevenstar Yacht Transport</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302292/image/large-e5d6e4cf6381ea5ec598eaa49ba967ac.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302292">“The arrangements for the tow in France were extensive and very complicated,” explained Mike Herrebrugh of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/311" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sevenstar Yacht Transport B.V. (Company)">Sevenstar Yacht Transport</a>. “But it is amazing to be trusted by Nicholas Edmiston and William Collier to handle their project, which is clearly a labour of love, to preserve an historic piece of yachting.”<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5467" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amazone39.62m (129'12&quot;)Vosper Thornycroft1936">Amazone</a> was transported on the Seine alongside four specialised vessels and the heavy lift cross channel transport. Nicholas Edmiston and William Collier have previously worked together on the restoration of other vessels including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2248" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Bird of 193831.59m (103'8&quot;)Goole Shipyard1938">Blue Bird</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2841" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nahlin91.44m (300'0&quot;)John Brown & Sons1930">Nahlin</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2291" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Malahne50.29m (164'12&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1937">Malahne</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4894" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cacouna36.2m (118'9&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1932">Cacouna</a> and had been watching <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5467" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amazone39.62m (129'12&quot;)Vosper Thornycroft1936">Amazone</a> for several years.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302290/image/large-e1b9966d9e6f3149ea61da69b05c831e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302290">“These are complex projects where you need the support of strong partners who understand your requirements and who remain focused on it throughout,” added William Collier of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/275" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd (Company)">G. L. Watson</a>. “Mike Herrebrugh is that partner and this concludes our third successful project with Sevenstar in the last 12 months.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302291/image/large-601419a685a97f137b1fadef58311771.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302291">

40m Vosper Thornycroft yacht Amazone prepares for refit at Pendennis Shipyard

The 40m Vosper Thornycroft yacht Amazone has been transported from France to Falmouth as part of the first stage in her extensive restoration.

40m Vosper Thornycroft yacht Amazone transported to Pendennis Shipyard for refit

New details have emerged about the shootout on Friday 28 April at 2:28am with the 50.29-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1068" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ramage & Ferguson (Company)">Ramage &amp; Ferguson</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a>, off the coast of Yemen. The Yemeni Coast Guard (YCG) has now issued an official statement outlining the details of the gunfight that took place between the superyacht, two YCG’s vessels and a Yemeni Navy patrol vessel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/39946/image/large-295e003c96e46db73970c3381681ae45.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/39946">Previous reports published by online publisher AP News stated that guards onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> mistook the Yemeni Coast Guard for pirates. But the yacht's manager Aashim Mongia said there was absolutely no case of "mistaken identity.”Owner Shirish Saraf has publicly stated that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> was en route to Egypt, when he claims that she was pursued by pirates for between four and five hours. Three security guards were onboard at the time of the incident when a gunfight broke out, with eyewitnesses onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> reporting over 150 rounds fired.The YCG refutes these claims, stating that “patrol boats introduced themselves and tried to communicate with the yacht via the VHF radio-bridge to bridge COMMS, but the yacht captain did not respond to the repeated calls.”&nbsp;The Yemeni Coast Guard claims that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> was not flying a flag and was sailing in Yemeni territorial waters, about six nautical miles from the coast. The patrol boats approached the yacht in an attempt to attract the attention of the crew to respond to the VHF communication.According to the YCG statement, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> started to increase speed and heavily fired at the Yemeni Law enforcement boats. The Yemeni Law enforcement vessels fired back, and it is reported that this resulted in the death of one Yemeni soldier, others wounded and damage to the vessels.A pursuit ensued, with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> sailing towards international waters and according to the YCG, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> “issued a false distress call.” As a result of this, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) issued an “attack” warning, but with clarification from YCG, it was downgraded from attack to incident.The manager of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> claims that an aircraft was able to identify multiple pirate skiffs operating under the guise of the Yemeni Coast Guard in the area, and that at least two other distress calls regarding piracy were made from merchant ships also in the area.Pictures taken onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> show the yacht has sustained significant damage and bullet holes to both her interior and exterior. Medical assistance was sent to the yacht and no other injuries were reported onboard.According to the YCG, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> was sailing with a crew of nine onboard, including the captain, all of Indian nationality. As well as this, there were three security guards onboard, two Indian and one Greek. The YCG also reports that they had modern automatic weapons and snipers.The Yemeni Coast Guard said that “the Yemeni government reserves its rights regarding what resulted from the incident, as the yacht entered the territorial waters of Yemen and was sailing without showing a flag. The statement also says that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> refused to respond to the law enforcement assets and stop, which is “clear violation of international maritime law and the rules of innocent passage.”The statement concludes that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> did not “have any justification nor right to use arms and ammunition,” and that they were warned more than once that the vessels were the Yemen law enforcement agencies, YCG &amp; Navy. “The crew onboard were all in military dress and the boats were of naval design, not of a traditional fishing boat design.”<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/275" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd (Company)">G.L. Watson &amp; Co. Ltd</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Della Tecnica (Company)">Della Tecnica</a>, with interior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Della Tecnica (Company)">Della Tecnica</a> and naval architecture from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/275" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd (Company)">G.L. Watson &amp; Co. Ltd</a>. She is able to accommodate up to 10 guests, alongside a crew of 10.

50m Ramage & Ferguson yacht Kalizma shootout in Yemen

The 50m Ramage & Ferguson superyacht Kalizma was involved in a shootout off the coast of Yemen on Friday

New details revealed about 50m superyacht Kalizma shootout in Yemen

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="John Brown & Sons (Company)">John Brown &amp; Co.</a> was originally founded by John Brown in 1838 in Sheffield, UK, as a steel-maker. The company was involved in supplying steel components to the rail industry and by 1860 was manufacturing armour-plating for British Royal Navy ships. In 1899 the decision was made to start building complete ships and the company took over <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3577" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Clyde & Co (Company)">Clydebank Engineering &amp; Shipbuilding Co.</a> in Scotland. There the team developed the Brown-Curtis turbine, a propulsion system that encouraged the Royal Navy to commission the yard to build many of its major warships.&nbsp;Here, we take a look at the company resume of the nine very large steam yachts constructed between 1902 and 1954:&nbsp;SHEELAH // 73m // 1902 // 466 GT &nbsp;Built for William A. Donaldson of Duntochter, Dumbartonshire, Scotland, this steam yacht (the second of its name), was sold in 1905 to John K. L. Ross of Montreal, Canada. In 1913, she became the property of Admiral David Beatty (later Earl Beatty) of London, who loaned her to the British Admiralty from 1914 to 1923 for use as a hospital ship. Jugoslavenska Lloyd of Dubrovnik acquired the vessel in 1935, converting her to commercial use as the Tiha. She was reported sunk in 1947. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195697/image/large-d97b889f77faf25c8b41b167ca4b684a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195697">DORIS // 85.1m // 1910 // 963 GTDesigned by the legendary <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/275" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd (Company)">G. L. Watson</a>, Doris was completed for Glasgow-based Solomon B. Joel in 1910 before being requisitioned by the British Admiralty in 1914 for service as an auxiliary patrol vessel. Renamed Eileen when returned to her owner in 1919, she was sold in 1931 to the commercial owner Soc D’Armement des Croisieres Pierre Dupuy of Le Havre, before being converted for passengers and renamed Girundia II. Operated by several owners until 1954 when the Government of Kuwait acquired and renamed her Al Salimi. No longer seagoing by 1973. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195690/image/large-d7dd2290775272c707cc6cd2ad7ca676.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195690">JEANNETTE // 75.6m // 1911 // 931 GTAnother <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/275" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd (Company)">G.L. Watson</a> design, Jeannette was delivered to Harry Livesey of Glasgow in 1911 before being requisitioned by the Admiralty between 1915 and 1919 and renamed Jeannette II. Sold in 1934 and promptly again in 1936, she was acquired by Col. John Gretton in 1939 and renamed St. Modwen. During WWII she served as an anti-submarine vessel before being purchased by commercial interests and converted to a cargo ship. Finally broken up in 1950 at Haifa, Israel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195693/image/large-79e4dca7de4e76b8cb17aadae23edc2f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195693">SAPPHIRE // 86.9M // 1912 // 1207 GTDelivered to the Duke of Bedford in 1912, Sapphire was requisitioned by the Admiralty in 1915 and used as an auxiliary patrol vessel until 1920 when she was bought by Viscount Furness. Lord Fairhaven acquired her in 1923 and would retain ownership until Admiralty requisition in 1939 when she was renamed HMS Breda. Sunk after collision with a submarine in Scotland 1944.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195696/image/large-569a978b097e7dbdff150ee86eadefbf.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195696">RESTLESS // 61.9m // 1923 // 736 GT&nbsp;Built for Alexander S. Cochran of Glasgow and delivered in 1923, she was quickly sold to Lord Tredegar in 1924. In 1926 the Duke of Sutherland bought the vessel and renamed it Sans Peur, before selling her to King Faisal of Iraq in 1935 under the name King Faisal I prior to being acquired by the Iraqi government for use as a lighthouse tender. Last reported sighting was in 1974. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195695/image/large-88586d637961960d14de18b4b945d1e1.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195695">THALASSA // 60m // 1924 // 876 GT&nbsp;The American heir to a leading carpet manufacturing business set up by his father, Eugene Higgins commissioned this steam yacht in the early 1920s. Acquired by the British government in 1944, she was used as an examination vessel in the Mediterranean. In 1945 the owner became W.G. Hetherington of Glasgow who renamed the yacht Suilven. After his death, Thalassa was sold to the Government of Iran in 1947 and converted for use as a pilot vessel. Later history unknown.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195698/image/large-15db8b5363d66f26731a4b73a3e5c8ec.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195698"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2841" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nahlin91.44m (300'0&quot;)John Brown & Sons1930">NAHLIN</a>&nbsp;// 91.44m // 1930 // 1391 GT&nbsp;Owned by the jute heiress Lady Annie Henrietta Yule, this was the largest yacht built so far by the company. One of G.L. Watson’s finest designs, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2841" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nahlin91.44m (300'0&quot;)John Brown & Sons1930">Nahlin</a> was acquired by King Carol II of Romania in 1937 and renamed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2841" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nahlin91.44m (300'0&quot;)John Brown & Sons1930">Luceafaru</a>l. The Romanian Government made her part of the Romanian Navy from 1940 to 1948, then from 1953 she became a cruise ship before being converted into a floating restaurant on the River Danube in the 1970s. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195694/image/large-128600e12862bca63ebcde95d3eb6a39.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195694">Rescued by British broker Nicholas Edmiston in 1999, on behalf of Sir Anthony Bamford, she was shipped to the UK for restoration by Cammell Laird and then to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nobiskrug (Company)">Nobiskrug</a>, Rendsburg, Germany, after the UK builder went into administration. Finally completed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blohm & Voss GmbH (Company)">Blohm &amp; Voss</a> in Hamburg and later acquired by Sir James Dyson. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/52285" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="History: Proteksan and Turquoise Yachts on how they came to be (2021-01-18 16:45:00 +0100)">She is still in service today</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/4763/image/large-d6b11c735fff1e9300269ef834ec76ba.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/4763">ENCHANTRESS // 86m // 1935 // 1474 GTLaid down as the naval sloop HMS Bittern for use by the Admiralty in 1935, she became an Admiral’s yacht for occasional use by British royalty. Fitted with four steam turbines, Enchantress was converted to a passenger excursion vessel in 1947 based at Ramsgate, UK. Broken up 1952.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195692/image/large-3836c10b8c07ccd8965505e5b9c2af57.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195692"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11148" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Britannia126.0m (413'5&quot;)John Brown & Sons1954">BRITANNIA</a>&nbsp;// 125.6m // 5769 GT&nbsp;Completed to great acclaim as the new British Royal yacht in 1954, much has been written about HMS Britannia and her world tours over the years. Decommissioned in 1997 after a farewell tour of the British Isles, the yacht is now situated at Leith in Scotland and is one of the UK’s top tourist attractions. Today there are many discussions about whether a new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11148" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Britannia126.0m (413'5&quot;)John Brown & Sons1954">Britannia</a> will be <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/52813" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Yacht Britannia: A look back in history (2021-04-29 16:00:00 +0200)">built for the service of her country and Royal Family</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195689/image/large-be6014e4fdb5b45ade91c2239a542438.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195689">This article was originally published in the&nbsp;September/October 2020 issue of The SuperYacht Times newspaper. To receive all future issues straight to your door, <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/" target="_blank">subscribe to the newspaper here</a>.

John Brown and Co. Yachts: A history of the yacht builder

SYT in-house yacht historian investigates John Brown & Co. yachts and the builder's brilliant history.

A history of steel-maker turned yacht builder John Brown & Co 

The 91-metre steamship <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2841" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nahlin91.44m (300'0&quot;)John Brown & Sons1930">Nahlin</a> has just celebrated her 91st year afloat and was seen this week taking refuge in Falmouth, Cornwall. Launched on the 28th April 1930, the steamship, previously named&nbsp;Libertatea, was designed by the Scotish firm&nbsp;G. L. Watson &amp; Co and built in Clyde, Scotland, by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="John Brown & Sons (Company)">John Brown &amp; Co</a>. The last time <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2841" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system" target="_blank">Nahlin</a> was seen in Falmouth, she was mounted aboard a cargo ship en route to the beginnings of her restoration work in 1999. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/4763/image/large-d6b11c735fff1e9300269ef834ec76ba.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/4763">The extraordinary motor yacht was part of a fifteen year campaign to rescue the steamship from dilapidation in Romania, in which her designers <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/275" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd (Company)">G. L. Watson &amp; Co</a>, were the major instigator. Nicholas Edmiston and a yachtsman named William Collier discovered the vessel in dire straits, and after 15 years of negotiation, returned the vessel to the United Kingdom in 1999. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/39878/image/large-a5132adc2bc9e7f3c2b82929d9230185.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/39878">Following her return to Scotland, her original designers pooled their historical resources and began to stabilise her condition, using photographs from ex.crew mates family albums to bolster their historical archive. Gradually, over 450 tons of debris was removed and her surviving interiors were surveyed, the team retaining as much originality as they could find, creating plaster moulds of original cornicing and moulding.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/4764/image/large-b4398a07be4addbfe8891ff074a501ca.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/4764">German shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nobiskrug (Company)">Nobiskrug</a> undertook the body of the restorative work during a monumental rebuild between 2005 and 2010, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/275" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd (Company)">G. L. Watson &amp; Co</a> oversaw and project managed the rebuild. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blohm & Voss GmbH (Company)">Blohm &amp; Voss Repair GmbH</a> in Hamburg were charged with her engineering.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/39880/image/large-314bc9c31939af441151da7852bc19d0.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/39880">In 2010, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2841" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nahlin91.44m (300'0&quot;)John Brown & Sons1930">Nahlin</a> returned to the British Isles in full, turnkey beauty. The work on the steamship set a new standard for classic superyacht restoration work. Her restoration is widely considered to be one of the most significant classic restoration work ever conducted in the industry. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/121681/image/large-bccbbbb9cd9a3317401ff6975f2a1ec8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/121681">The classic superyacht now has diesel engines, and her contemporary interiors were designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rémi Tessier (Company)">Rémi Tessier</a>. She has a top speed of 18 knots.&nbsp;

superyacht Nahlin celebrates 91st birthday in Falmouth

The 91m classic superyacht Nahlin has just celebrated her 91st year afloat, she was seen this week in Falmouth, Cornwall. 

Classic superyacht Nahlin celebrates 91st birthday

The 41.83-metre sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is Us41.83m (137'3&quot;)">This Is Us</a> has been sold, Ocean Independence recently announced. Built by the Dutch yard Holland Jachtbouw, she was completed in 2005 and previously sailed under the name Skylge. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/34100/image/large-104d39ce5402c2a0db9fdfad566032d3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/34100">This Is Us was designed in her entirety by the sailing design experts at Hoek Design Naval Architects and is a regular contender in the regatta scene.&nbsp;This Is Us was sold with Nick Dean and Marc Haendle at Ocean Independence representing the seller, and William Collier at GL Watson introducing the buyer. At the time of sale, she was listed at an asking price of €5,950,000.&nbsp;

The 42m super sailing yacht This Is Us sold

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/165062/image/large-9ad53a7599c15bd4d9532b7eeb7d2b40.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/165062">

Blue Bird motor yacht in St Tropez

The classic motor yacht Blue Bird was originally built by Goole Shipyard in 1938 for Sir Malcolm Campbell. Designed by Scottish naval architects G.L. Watson she was to be an ocean going yacht as Sir Malcolm was planning to go treasure hunting in the Cocos Islands in the Pacific. She never made it to the Pacific as she was requisitioned in 1940 and went to Dunkirk to assist in the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force. Her current owner completely restored the superyacht in 2007 at Astilleros de Mallorca. Her original designer, G.L. Watson assisted with the rebuild and Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design created a stylish and elegant new interior.

Photo by Stephen Stead

The classic 1938 motor yacht Blue Bird in St Tropez

The team behind the award-winning refit of the classic 50-metre motor yacht Malahne, G.L. Watson &amp; Co, are at it again; this time to restore and upgrade the 36-metre classic superyacht Dear B that was launched as Cacouna in March 1932. 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162701/image/large-4633150b6a283016e1cbfb7e0013a0f6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162701">

Currently located in Turkey, the refit will be carried out by Dunya Yachts in Pendik with G.L. Watson &amp; Co. taking on the roles as exterior and interior designers as well as owner’s representative. 

From initial renderings, it would seem the refit will include a substantial amount of structural changes to the upper and main decks. 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162702/image/large-24bde4986030cb3043318feb3df5c598.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162702">

Dear B’s past is a colourful one, having been passed down several ownerships since her life started nearly 80 years ago. The yacht was built by Camper &amp; Nicholsons’ Gosport yard to a design by Charles E. Nicholson. Following her service in the second World War, the yacht was sold for the fourth time and renamed Wilelka. Based in Cannes in the 1950’s and operating under the name Olnico, the yacht made headlines after hosting Elizabeth Taylor and Eddie Fisher on their honeymoon. 

In recent years Dear B has been kept in southern Turkish waters.

1932 classic superyacht Cacouna to undergo major refit

G.L Watson &amp; Co. has announced an opportunity to restore a significant, high pedigree yacht to her former glory. The 48 metre Caritas was built in 1925 by the Krupp shipyard to a Cox &amp; Stevens design for J.P. Bartram, a New York sugar magnate. After being acquired, like many vessels at this time, by the Navy in 1941, she served for four years before being decommissioned in 1945.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153510/image/large-629d6e6364d95e2874bba43e5533ada7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153510">Unfortunately, after the war years Caritas has been long forgotten, and G.L. Watson report that they rediscovered just in time to save her from being scrapped. In her present state she is largely original with timber decks, some interior panelling and no welded repairs. All engines, pipework and wiring have been removed prior to her moving to her current location.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153511/image/large-63afa7e34292d87629eb04d424a3dafe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153511">Restored to modern superyacht standards and regulations, her interior volume will provide accommodation for up to 10 guests with a spacious main salon and separate dining room on the main deck. The shade deck is large enough to provide ample space for dining, lounging or entertaining outdoors, as well as storage for a motor launch, RIB and dinghies.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153512/image/large-d78d898f474de9a103b7eb95688c6634.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153512">As is typical with American yachts of the period, the whole aft main deck is shaded by an elegant sun awning creating a comfortable and private space for dining and lounging above the yacht’s counter stern.The current condition of Caritas makes her an ideal candidate for restoration projects similar to those completed on Blue Bird, Nahlin and most recently, Malahne.G. L. Watson &amp; Co. Managing Director, Dr William Collier who over the last 25 years has been responsible for the identification, salvage and restoration of many of today’s best known classic yachts states, "Caritas is to the best of our knowledge a unique and last opportunity to undertake the restoration of a yacht that combines both pedigree and elegance within truly practical proportions. She needs to be saved and restored so that she can take her place in the treasured fleet of great classic yachts.”

G.L. Watson & Co. look to restore superyacht Caritas 

The 50 metre classic motor yacht Malahne was launched recently after an extensive 30 month refit at the Pendennis Shipyard in Falmouth, UK. Originally launched in 1937, the almost 80 year old vessel was designed by Charles E. Nicholson and built by Camper &amp; Nicholsons. Amongst her extensive modifications were a drastic restoration of her interior and exterior to a sophisticated and contemporary standard, whilst also being modernised to be fully classed by Lloyd’s Register and compliant with the MCA Large Yacht Code (LY3).<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152909/image/large-41608b9d4bf2405a47b56013897f23cc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152909">The impressive project was brought to life by Nicholas Edmiston, Chairman of Edmiston &amp; Company who has also played a vital part in the restoration of Nahlin and Bluebird. After introducing the project to her owner, she was taken to the Pendennis facilities where classic yacht experts G.L. Watson &amp; Co. provided the exterior and interior design for the crew accommodation. William Collier, Managing Director at G.L. Watson &amp; Co, comments, “The Malahne project is the most ambitious motor yacht restoration yet undertaken. The challenge of recreating many of the yacht’s features while achieving a faithful restoration of the hull shape has been very rewarding. Together we have brought an historically important yacht back to life. Malahne appears as she did in the 1930s, while having all of today’s conveniences.”On-site project management was provided by G. L. Watson and Edmiston Yacht Management (EYM), who pooled their complementary design and technical expertise to work closely with Pendennis.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152910/image/large-ba878a638a444a6c6d26955a72238d8b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152910">Inside, she features Art Deco influenced interior design created by Oliver Laws. Guy Oliver of Oliver Laws explains his brief from the owner, saying; “The Owner’s brief to “make Malahne look as if she had been in continuous ownership since she was built” was wonderful and daunting. The new Malahne had to function with contemporary requirements for air conditioning and technology, all of which had to be contained in an original envelope. I spent a long time establishing a language and grammar for the interior, with bespoke detailing, woods and materials appropriate to the period, (which were all hand worked and finished), as well as designing and sourcing original furniture in a lightly eclectic way to give an air of authenticity and continuity. The result is a vessel of charm and elegance that makes a distinctive statement for which I am sure she will become renowned.”Mike Carr, Managing Director of Pendennis, is extremely proud of the standard of workmanship on-board: “Over the past two and half years the team here has worked incredibly hard to bring Malahne back to life. Seeing the final transformation from her 1980s form back to her original design, her launch marks a proud moment for everyone involved. Our tradespeople from all areas have applied quality, care, pride and passion to every aspect of the project. There have been unprecedented opportunities to showcase their restoration skills, whilst sympathetically integrating modern systems. Malahne now commands a special place in the Pendennis fleet.”On completion of trials, Malahne will return to the Mediterranean. Yacht operations will be managed by Edmiston Yacht Management, and Malahne will be available for charter through Edmiston.By Gemma Fottles

Classic 50m superyacht Malahne launches after 30 month restoration

Edmiston has sold the classic yacht La Bimba in an inhouse deal. La Bimba, designed by the famous Scottish naval architects of GL Watson &amp; Company along traditional lines, was built as Themara by Ailsa Shipbuilding in 1962.<img alt="" src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/152865/image/large-b3d725361b544fc758321d0628fce728.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152865">This 24.60 metre compact ocean going yacht, powered by twin Gardner diesels (now completely rebuilt) has cruised extensively in all latitudes including a circumnavigation starting in 1988. La Bimba's previous owner has spent considerable money as part of a comprehensive refit.She offers accommodation for up to 8 guests in 4 cabins, as well as a crew of 2.Her asking price was €450,000.

Classic yacht La Bimba sold

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152408/image/large-8dc8a5737000f6a9fd0783e079f6c68b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152408">Superyacht Camara C in Saint TropezThe 32 metre classic superyacht Camara C was built by Yarrow &amp; Co in 1961 to a design by GL Watson. Over the years, she has been refitted several times, with her last refit in 2009. The yacht offers accommdation to 12 guests, and a crew of 6. Powered by twin Gardner diesels, she cruises at a leisurely 10 knots. She was seen here during the 2014 Voiles de Saint Tropez.By Maarten Janssen, photo by <a href="http://www.superyachtphoto.com" target="_blank">SuperYachtPhoto.com</a>

The 32 metre classic superyacht Camara C

The 91.44 metre superyacht Nahlin was photographed by SYT contributor Giovanni Romero, as she arrived in Gibraltar last month. The yacht is one of the largest classic yachts in the world, built by John Brown &amp; Sons in 1930 to a design of G.L. Watson. Her current owners took her to Germany in 2010 to be completly rebuilt and restored. Nowadays, Nahlin features a modern diesel-electric propulsion system, and an interior by the French designer Remi Tessier. Unfortunately, her interior has never been published, and is still a closely guarded secret.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/150985/image/large-b6ed9ba4100810530a6ef4171a075a75.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/150985"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/150986/image/large-7746656edea88108eac0984befdc120a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/150986"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/150987/image/large-47ee0e8a951f3469192ea880e8e6fd40.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/150987"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/150988/image/large-653f41ea882191bb85956ec5d9b0d306.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/150988"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/150989/image/large-0d50154b14d5d58dfd4649c6ae75db02.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/150989">By Maarten Janssen, photos by Giovanni Romero / <a href="www.superyachtphoto.com/Media/" target="_blank">SuperYachtPhoto.com</a>

In Pictures: The 91.44 metre classic superyacht Nahlin

HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco met with designers from ten superyacht design firms that have signed up as Wood Forever Pact Partners – as well as two WFP Members, builders VSY and Burger – at the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation stand in the Monaco Yacht Show on 24 September.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/150876/image/large-ba394435546bb7626e589aee5109b87f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/150876">Wood Forever Pact is the flagship project of the ‘Monaco makes a commitment against deforestation’ initiative, led by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation. Superyacht designers concerned over deforestation have the opportunity to make a real difference to the environment by becoming Partners of WFP.So far, the first superyacht design studios to sign up to the project include: Claydon Reeves; Michael Leach Design; Bannenberg + Rowell; Redman Whiteley Dixon; Adam Lay Studio, Reymond Langton Design; Humphreys Design; Ciarmoli Queda Studio (CQS); Espen Oeino International and GL Watson &amp; Co.Committed to specifying only certified woods, these designers have pledged to introduce clients to Wood Forever Pact and raise awareness of the benefits of using woods sourced from well-managed forests.Designers interested in becoming a Wood Forever Pact Partner or wishing to get more information on the program are invited to call Nick Jeffery (+377 93 250 630) or contact the team at <a href="mailto:operationbois@fpa2.mc?subject=Wood%20Forever%20Pact%20Partner%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">operationbois@fpa2.mc</a>.By Gemma Fottles

HSH Prince Albert of Monaco welcomes designers aboard Wood Forever Pact

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/141499/image/large-0ae27cfcd8f7d5fd13f86d118f546b5d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/141499">The classic 1938 yacht Blue Bird The classic motor yacht <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2248">Blue Bird</a> was originally built by Goole Shipyard in 1938 for Sir Malcolm Campbell. Designed by Scottish naval architects G.L. Watson she was to be an ocean going yacht as Sir Malcolm was planning to go treasure hunting in the Cocos Islands in the Pacific. She never made it to the Pacific as she was requisitioned in 1940 and went to Dunkirk to assist in the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force. Her current owner completely restored the superyacht in 2007 at Astilleros de Mallorca. Her original designer, G.L. Watson assisted with the rebuild and Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design created a stylish and elegant new interior. By Merijn de Waard, photo by Frank Behrends