About Jinlong Mega Yacht

China

Jinlong Mega Yacht

When it comes to marina infrastructure in China, much of the attention has focused on Hong Kong, with established sites such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3255" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard (Company)">Gold Coast Marina</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lantau Yacht Club (Company)">Lantau Yacht Club</a>, as well as newer developments like Skytopia and the Hung Hom waterfront project. However, with many of Hong Kong’s marinas operating at or near full capacity, attention is gradually shifting toward neighbouring Shenzhen as a viable and increasingly attractive alternative for yacht owners.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361573/image/large-8a1c37535ea41e5bff85d156422cdef8.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361573">As one of China’s most dynamic urban centres, Shenzhen has undergone rapid transformation since its designation as a Special Economic Zone in 1980. Today, it is home to more than 17 million people and stands as a leading hub for innovation, finance, and technology. The city hosts the headquarters of major tech firms including Tencent, DJI and Huawei, and its sustained economic growth has fuelled the rise of a sizable high-net-worth population. This concentration of wealth and industry has, in turn, generated strong domestic demand for luxury services, including yachting.SuperYacht Times features writer Enrico Chhibber recently visited <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shenzhen Bay Marina Club (Company)">Shenzhen Bay Marina Club</a> with Ronnie Wang of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7800" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachting Encounters Asia (Company)">Yachting Encounters Asia</a> to explore how the marina is positioning itself within the wider Greater Bay Area. During the visit, Chhibber toured the marina’s facilities and spoke with Managing Director Alex Liu about its evolution, the services it offers, its role in supporting the broader development of yachting infrastructure across the region, and the future plans set to enhance Shenzhen’s position as a yachting destination. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361568/image/large-5938a98e92935fb28335e1dfc5cc9904.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361568">The visit to the marina began with a 40-minute ferry ride from Hong Kong to Shenzhen, followed by a short drive from the terminal to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shenzhen Bay Marina Club (Company)">Shenzhen Bay Marina Club</a>. Upon arrival, we were welcomed and given a tour of the marina’s indoor facilities, which were immaculately presented. The interiors featured imported sandstone finishes and a range of amenities, including conference rooms for members and hotel-style accommodation for visiting yacht owners staying on site for several nights. After the tour, we sat down for coffee in the dining area with Alex Liu, Managing Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shenzhen Bay Marina Club (Company)">Shenzhen Bay Marina Club</a> and son of the marina’s owner. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361587/image/large-c4bcc951589946afcb9914c223193c19.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361587">Origins of the marinaLiu began by recounting the origins of the marina, which opened in 1994 as part of a broader government initiative to strengthen maritime infrastructure in Shenzhen. “We launched with a vision to create a luxurious and service-oriented yachting community, inspired by Shekou’s prestigious maritime traditions,” Liu explained. Designed by AECOM, Shenzhen Bay Marina Club reflects this heritage while setting new standards for modern yachting facilities in the region.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361572/image/large-58411dd0b8aefaa3f8ce990a8239bb02.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361572">Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/63344" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A full summary of the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2025 (2025-05-16 18:00:00 +0200)">A full summary of the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2025</a>Marina capacity and evolving trendsAs the conversation turned to berthing capacity, Liu explained that Shenzhen Bay Marina currently offers around 300 berths and can accommodate yachts up to 200 feet (approximately 61-metres) in length. Of these, around 200 berths are occupied. “While we do have a strong local Chinese client base, we attract many international yacht owners from Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas,” Liu said. He noted that approximately 50 percent of the yachts are based in Shenzhen, with 30 to 40 percent coming from Hong Kong and Macau, and the remainder from overseas.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361586/image/large-41fa3f5ab9176855c34ec1cacaf369de.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361586">Liu also highlighted a rising number of Chinese yacht owners living abroad who are choosing to berth at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shenzhen Bay Marina Club (Company)">Shenzhen Bay Marina</a>. “We’ve observed a growing trend towards larger, more luxurious yachts, with owners increasingly interested in eco-friendly features and customised onboard experiences,” he added.As we walked through the marina, a notable number of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti</a> 850s were berthed alongside the 26.82-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/584" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pershing S.p.a. (Company)">Pershing</a> motor yacht Alduch, several <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2561" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heysea Yachts (Company)">Heysea</a> models, and a 46.84-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7052" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rui Zi 460146.48m (152'6&quot;)Jinlong Mega Yacht2019">Rui Zi 4601</a>. The scene reflected the diversity of yacht sizes the facility is equipped to accommodate.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361584/image/large-0c5f3ac00e4603da24c27d4adbec699d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361584">Cross-border connectivity and Shenzhen Bay Marina Club's strategic positionWith marina capacity in Hong Kong reaching its limits, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shenzhen Bay Marina Club (Company)">Shenzhen Bay Marina</a> is emerging as a natural alternative for yacht owners seeking high-quality berthing options within close reach of the city. Liu noted that the overflow from Hong Kong presents a significant opportunity for Shenzhen, particularly as the region continues to expand its maritime infrastructure and service capabilities.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361583/image/large-c3ac293299eb44623d99e2b482290b2a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361583">Launched in 2017, the ‘Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macau Yacht Free Travel’ scheme allows Hong Kong-registered yachts to stay at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shenzhen Bay Marina Club (Company)">Shenzhen Bay Marina</a> for up to 183 days as tax-free visiting vessels, provided they operate within designated cruising areas in Guangdong waters. The scheme also permits Chinese-flagged yachts to travel to Hong Kong, with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shenzhen Bay Marina Club (Company)">Shenzhen Bay Marina Club</a> remaining the only approved mainland port under the policy. Describing the initiative as a “game changer,” Liu emphasised its significance in shaping the marina’s role in the region. The arrangement has not only facilitated cross-border yachting activity but also strengthened <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shenzhen Bay Marina Club (Company)">Shenzhen Bay Marina Club</a>’s position as one of the more attractive marina destinations within the Greater Bay Area.A key limitation, however, remains the restriction on the number of people allowed onboard, which is currently capped at 12 including crew and guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361585/image/large-70cf80bbe487d6ffa0401af56b57bf95.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361585">Events and initiatives driving engagement at Shenzhen Bay Marina ClubIn discussing how Shenzhen can strengthen its position within the Greater Bay Area’s yachting landscape, Liu highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships and curated events in attracting new yacht owners. “Partnerships can attract more yacht owners. Promoting Shenzhen as a luxury yachting hub through international events and marketing campaigns will also elevate its profile,” he stated.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shenzhen Bay Marina Club (Company)">Shenzhen Bay Marina Club</a> has increasingly positioned itself as more than a berthing facility by hosting high-profile events that blend lifestyle, branding, and yachting. Collaborations with the Ferretti Group, for example, have featured on-site yacht displays aimed at connecting directly with prospective buyers. The marina has also become a sought-after venue for international fashion houses, with both LVMH and Kering Group holding exclusive events at the waterfront location.These events are also designed to engage the city’s growing base of high-net-worth individuals, many of whom have accumulated their wealth through Shenzhen’s booming tech and innovation sectors. By aligning with luxury brands and curating exclusive experiences, the marina aims to engage this emerging clientele and build stronger links between the yachting lifestyle and the region’s next generation of wealth.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361571/image/large-f23cd9340aa7b6e34973100dd9989505.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361571">Future plans and developmentsFuture plans and developments Looking ahead, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shenzhen Bay Marina Club (Company)">Shenzhen Bay Marina Club</a> has set out an ambitious roadmap aimed at enhancing both infrastructure and service. “We aim to introduce state-of-the-art docking technology, expand luxury accommodations, and develop a series of exclusive, members-only facilities and events to elevate the overall yachting experience,” Liu explained. “We also plan to expand into yacht management, strengthen our infrastructure, and engage in wider consultation with industry partners.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361588/image/large-83295bdc5d3dd459a9553995d28d66df.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361588">

Shenzhen Bay Marina Club’s position in China’s evolving yachting landscape

SuperYacht Times  recently visited Shenzhen Bay Marina Club to explore how the marina is positioning itself within the wider Greater Bay Area.

How Shenzhen Bay Marina Club is positioning itself in China’s evolving yachting landscape

Insight: Could China become a yacht building powerhouse?

This article explores and assesses yacht construction in China.

Yacht brokers of Hong Kong have had a phenomenal couple of years as the local appetite for superyachts has grown. There has been a boom in “demand for anything between 15-metres through to 45-metres, and around 500 yachts have been sold in Hong Kong in the last two years,” Eric Noyel, Founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5504" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asia Marine (Company)">Asia Marine</a> &amp; Managing Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> Asia, told SYT. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/223285/image/large-af2e2abb128e9080583b34b18780bff1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/223285">While the appetite has predominantly been satisfied by European builds, local yacht builders have also been kept extremely busy. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/282" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kingship Yacht (Company)">Kingship</a>, for one, currently has multiple projects underway, Managing Director, Roger Liang confirmed. “We are currently building a 45-metre motor yacht designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4364" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horacio Bozzo Design (Company)">Horico Bozzo of Axis studio</a>, and have just delivered a 24-metre catamaran to a buyer who’ll navigate around one of the largest lakes in Southern China.” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/282" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kingship Yacht (Company)">Kingship</a> built six steel displacement yachts, that are full class and adhere to MCA standards, in the last 10 years. The yard also delivered three high-speed catamaran to clients in Southern China.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219565/image/large-22ced79efd4b0eddc1bc720fe5be70a9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219565">Across the Taiwan Strait, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Alexander (Company)">Ocean Alexander</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon Yachts</a> are churning out yachts with great tenacity, securing owners for each one. Last year <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Alexander (Company)">Ocean Alexander</a> delivered 13 yachts in the above 24-metre category and have a further 12 penned in to be launched this year. Whereas eight yachts built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon</a> made their first splash last year, and the Taiwanese builder expects to put another 15 in the water before this year’s through. The bulk of these yachts aren’t destined for Asia though, “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon Yachts</a>’ main market is Australia, the States, and Europe” Suzy Rayment, Executive Director of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7320" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association (Company)">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association</a>, explained. The lower number of Asian sales compared to other regions was confirmed after a quick call to the European office of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon Yachts</a>. The same is true for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Alexander (Company)">Ocean Alexander</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/214509/image/large-fc13dc58f4b69787fce9940344e59784.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/214509"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/111186/image/large-210aa4300e3261200ed50c1e362c0d7d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/111186">“Shipyards in Taiwan and Mainland China have been exporting yachts around the world for many years and there is now a growing market in mainland China for locally built yachts,” Mike Simpson, Founder &amp; CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1011" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simpson Marine (Company)">Simpson Marine</a>, commented. “Local builders are learning fast from their more established western counterparts and the quality is improving, but Asian buyers have come to expect cutting edge design, innovation and build quality – and throughout Asia they generally prefer to buy yachts from more established western shipyards. The ‘Designer Label’ is as important for yacht buyers as it is for buyers of cars, watches or handbags.”&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/177088/image/large-42d416153cf207aa10a7e8215e7f1371.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/177088"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong Mega Yacht</a> is one such shipyard that is developing quickly. The yacht builder is owned by the conglomerate that recently acquired <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>, Zhongying Int’l Holding Group Ltd. The Dutch shipyard will soon be working closely with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong Mega Yachts</a>, as the Chinese shipyard rolls out its expansion plans. Daan Balk confirmed this when the initial announcement was made, stating that his team will support the training activities at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong Mega Yacht</a>.European or American-built yachts are more than just a status symbol for many though. Quality is one thing, but &nbsp;“there also isn’t the same level of aftercare with Chinese-built boats,” Rayment said. So while these yachts might be cheaper, they still come with a price: a lower guarantee that clients know and expect from superyacht manufacturers. This may not be the case for long though; it seems we’re at a pivotal turning point.&nbsp;The forthcoming developments at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong Mega Yachts</a>, for one, but also with headway being made at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2561" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heysea Yachts (Company)">Heysea Yachts</a>. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2561" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heysea Yachts (Company)">Heysea</a> was established in 2007 and is currently the leading shipbuilder in mainland China,” Godfrey Zwygart, Managing Director at Marevisio Co. Limited, said. &nbsp;“They have a whole range of boats up to 43 metres, and their quality has been improving considerably in recent years – they are a serious competitor to western shipyards.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/100071/image/large-0bf6bfc76339c8dfc6a3125a232f0ff0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/100071"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/95551/image/large-7b41d18fc1e4817669080c0f3bf96c0b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/95551">The other big player in China is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3780" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pride Mega Yachts (Company)">Pride Mega Yachts</a>, located in the Yantai Shandong province. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3780" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pride Mega Yachts (Company)">Pride</a> is the yard that handled the construction of one of the largest Chinese-built superyachts: the 88.5-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5634" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Illusion Plus88.5m (290'4&quot;)Pride Mega Yachts2018">Illusion Plus</a>. Currently all three shipyards are predominantly geared for export, they all have scope to expand their facilities if local demand grows – which it could.“China is completely closed off from Hong Kong at the moment, but this could change as Hong Kong is now part of the Greater Bay Area,” Reyment said. “The yachting infrastructure is waiting to happen in China – it’s just not there yet. Hong Kong is a great role model in that respect.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/95547/image/large-edbb1299c84f04ecc42f83a57c880e5e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/95547">“Hong Kong has been doing well with superyacht sales these last few years and has had a fair bit of success with the 40-45-metre category,” Joe Yuen, Chief Representative, Hong Kong and Macao at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a>, told SYT. “It’s been a slightly different story in the mainland and the market for imported superyachts is a lot slower. There is a demand for locally built superyachts, production boats and smaller yachts in the region, but not for those imported.”Yuen continued, “A lot of local owners want superyachts, but because of local restrictions there is a reduced appetite for larger pleasure vessels. We see a lot of smaller Chinese-built yachts going out fishing and day cruising around Southern China, but larger yachts aren’t a common sight.”Tax and flagging regulations are two issues. While there may be much lower tax imposed if an owner wants to fly a Chinese flag, it comes with restrictions. “Local yachts with a Chinese flag have limited access to domestic waters and need to apply for special permits to go abroad, so boats willing to sail globally would have to be registered as commercial,” Zwygart explained. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208973/image/large-f6e2669d736b89cd112f3eb0d442eaed.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208973"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208974/image/large-b4a17d98ee52c159c2a131cb2bb91edd.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208974">This explains the strong focus on export. It also provided an opportunity for other Asian shipyards to tap into the market. South Korean builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GHI Yachts (Company)">GHI Super Yachts</a> "Phoenix Model Yachts", for one, supplies superyachts to its Chinese clients with an availability of flags and without an export tax. The largest yacht currently in-build at its facilities is the 39.6-metre motor yacht Legacy 135.Amidst heavy restrictions, there’s a lot of potentials. The market is maturing but the infrastructure needs developing and legislation needs lifting. There's also an issue with limited berthing available. Nonetheless, Roger Liang reports a growing number of “yachts on Hainan Island,” while this is positive the numbers “will take time to catch up” with the numbers of other affluent countries. If legislation is passed, there could be an upsurge – but, really, it’s difficult to tell.&nbsp;

yacht building in China

With a growing appetite for superyachts in China and Hong Kong, can we expect to see an increased activity in shipbuilding? 

Will there be an upsurge of yacht building in China? 

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a> has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Zhongying Int’l Holding Group Ltd. The Chinese shipbuilder now owns all the shares of the Dutch shipyard and will finance a large expansion. Daan Balk, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>, has confirmed that he will remain at the helm of things, and that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a> will increase their presence in Asia, as they will support and train the teams at Zhongying’s forthcoming shipyard which will be located in Hainan, China. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/37064/image/large-a87b0d4795925b80b04cc9a95838d24a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/37064">The agreement comes out of the significant growth in the superyacht market, and has been in the pipeline for a couple of years now. The European shipyard has outgrown its niche of refitting and maintaining yachts in the 30-40 metre range as its clients are continually asking for the same esteemed quality the shipyard is known for with larger projects. In 2004, it moved its facilities from Elburg to Urk to cater to this growing demand; however, Urk can only accommodate yachts up to around 67 metres in length.“The decision was an emotional one as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a> has been a family-run business for seven generations now, and one which has been in continual operation for 224 years. But with the industry performing as well as it is, we need to look at how we can grow and this partnership with Zhongying is an exciting opportunity for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>” Daan Balk commented in an exclusive interview with SuperYacht Times.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/167327/image/large-6cbb962bb4bb9fd00ed01ec06bf867a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/167327">The shipyard has&nbsp;purchased an area of land near Urk in the Netherlands, which is twice the size of its current facility, and will be able to accommodate yachts up to 80 metres in length. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/167326/image/large-24354b8ea4c90353aeeb4e2b1740e1c9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/167326">“We are proud of this new partnership and look forward to growing with Zhongying and having more of a presence in the Asian market. The expansion at Urk will also mean that we can continue to provide the services to our existing and new clients who are asking for larger yachts than before,” Daan Balk concluded.Under the Zhongying Int’l Holding Group's umbrella is the shipbuilder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong Mega Yachts</a>, who'll now be working closely with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong Mega Yachts</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyards</a> have been in correspondence for some time now, with Daan Balk visiting the Chinese shipyard in January 2020.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong</a> is in motion to become a major player in the Asian superyacht market. To date, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong</a> has delivered one 34.4-metre sailing yacht and three 46.48-metre motor yachts, one of which was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/50126" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jackie Chan’s new 46m superyacht launched in China (2019-07-12 10:15:00 +0200)">commissioned by martial artist and actor Jackie Chan</a>. Its motor yacht line is proving to be wildly popular as it has a further two in-build. With this new strategic partnership with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>, we can expect quick growth from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong</a>.

Balk Shipyard signs partnership with Zhongying

Balk Shipyard has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Zhongying Int’l Holding Group Ltd. 

Balk Shipyard sold to Chinese investors to finance growth in the European and Asian markets

Chinese shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong</a> has launched its flagship superyacht project this month commissioned by world-famous martial artist and actor Jackie Chan. The new 46.48-metre order was signed in October 2017 and production took place at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinlong Mega Yacht (Company)">Jinlong</a>’s Huludao Yacht Industry Park facility. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/87790/image/large-f277a06f9300e2b1ac9b363cfaf548d8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/87790"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/87795/image/large-471e8fa0f7926aaed5d7574ff382361d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/87795">Dutch office <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder Design</a> was selected to design the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7052" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinglong Yacht 460146.48m (152'6&quot;)Jinlong Mega Yacht2019">Jinglong 4601</a>'s interior and exterior areas. Designed to slice through even the choppiest of conditions, that yacht benefits from naval architecture developed by the same firm. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/87789/image/large-00f8bc623d2c1ca412c62174f313eced.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/87789"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/87793/image/large-77df2fd56c3b64d3d1b35502d092e9cc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/87793">Measuring 46.5 metres in length and built according to RINA classification standards, the full-aluminium yacht can reach a top speed of 21 knots and is designed to cruise at 19 knots. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7052" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jinglong Yacht 460146.48m (152'6&quot;)Jinlong Mega Yacht2019">Jinlong 4601</a> yacht comes fitted with twin MTU 16V 2000 engines and can cover an impressive range of 3,000 nm at a speed of 12 knots. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/87798/image/large-babf8ea9800b6305c1cd278d1455ac1c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/87798">

46m Jackie Chan yacht launched in China

Jackie Chan's new 46-metre yacht was launched in China earlier this month as the largest yacht to come from the Jinlong shipyard. 

Jackie Chan’s new 46m superyacht launched in China

A new 33.5-metre sailing catamaran has been launched at the Chinese shipyard Ruiying Yachts, located in Dalian on the Liaodong Peninsula. Built for a Chinese owner, the French studio of Berret Racoupeau were responsible for her design as was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/48082" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="5 questions with... Olivier Racoupeau (2018-02-06 10:00:00 +0100)">revealed to SuperYacht Times</a> by owner and head designer of the firm earlier this year. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/32148/image/large-674f956f9bdbda6490be9747af58b395.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32148">&nbsp;Although no official photos have yet been released, the above photo shows the very first preview of the yacht in the water for the first time. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/32147/image/large-47bf6ec43cc0bcf9042a1c150e1e2b40.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32147">&nbsp;Built to RINA class, the sailing yacht has a beam of 14.85 metres, a draft of 2.30 metres and a displacement of 150 tonnes. Accommodation is provided for 10 guests in four guest staterooms, with a master suite located forward of the main saloon between the two hulls of the vessel. &nbsp; <img src="/uploads/store/photo/32136/image/large-33854e02ca6bab2667eb6abbeb2e8ef8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32136">The Ruiying Yachts shipyard seems to have no shortage of work at the moment, with the recent launching of two 38-metre motor yachts, and the 2017 announcement of the sale of a 46-metre motor yacht to Jackie Chan.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/32140/image/large-61c12d7ea401780740b8a69d625f1682.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32140"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/32138/image/large-eb6060f10ceb0f31359e5c9af844d038.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32138"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/32134/image/large-1e931ec0dc4f6af5f4268ac505471244.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32134"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/32145/image/large-cbb65f262ed9af0be7ad78ade28a6861.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32145"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/32144/image/large-43b5ba99b7ce50cea5e71e2f9fcd639e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32144"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/32146/image/large-aae8c00b34ce2d867de104e8aa0aede5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32146">

33m sailing catamaran launched in China

Though the superyacht business is a relatively small industry, it is packed with international professionals from all walks of life, and it can certainly be easy to get lost in the sea of faces we're presented with at boat shows, yachting events and beyond. In this series of articles, we take a step back from rushed business meetings and hurried networking and sit down with professionals from across the wide spectrum of the superyacht business to learn more about who they are and what they do for the industry. In this week’s episode, we get to know Olivier Racoupeau, the owner and head designer of the French design studio, Berret Racoupeau.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24095/image/large-2c25277f786a0763ec22133a93aa4120.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24095"> How did you get into the field of yacht design?&nbsp;I came to yacht design because I am a sailor, starting early in regatta boats, dinghies, catamarans and large monohulls. I graduated from Toulouse University in mechanics and aeronautic technologies and joined Jean Berret Yacht Design in 1983, where we mainly did racing yachts. We became partners in 1993, and since then, the company has really grown and we are now up to 12 people. Jean Berret decided to retire in 2007, and since then we have been involved in two main activities: one is production boat design, mainly for bigger French and European boat builders, and the other is designing larger custom yachts.&nbsp; Tell me about your current projects which you have underway.At the moment we have a few very nice projects underway. First, we have a 110-foot catamaran in construction in China for a Chinese client. We have also started designing a 55-metre monohull which will be a charter yacht, and we have recently received confirmation to start on a new 110-foot catamaran as well as an 85-foot monohull.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24114/image/large-64ff399394585513a0d8af87aeb0101d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24114"> The 110' Ruiying Yacht catamaran will be built by the Chinese shipyard Ruiying Yachts for a Chinese owner. What have been some of the studio's major milestones?&nbsp; There have been so many! One important milestone was in 1991 when we designed the first cruising catamaran, which is now a very big activity. Although that was a very small element of our business in the 1990s, it is now more or less half of our core business. We also design 3-4 catamarans every year, which is very important to us. Another key milestone was in 2000 when we decided to try the superyacht market: we have been exhibiting now for almost 20 years in Düsseldorf and Monaco. Another milestone was in 2000 when we collaborated with the JFA boatyard to transform the schooner, Orejana&nbsp;into Magistral,&nbsp;a classic boat of 25.5-metres.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24110/image/large-f9b328bf347920803ba85f9fe4717fea.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24110"> &nbsp;The 180' monohull project Smart Spirit&nbsp; How would you describe the French yacht design scene at the moment?We are much more involved in Catamaran material design than in other countries, but it’s a moot point I think, as there is no real French spirit in yacht design.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24115/image/large-a9b41089722e7ef70c3548648d6bafde.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24115"> Finally, what about innovation in sailing yacht design. Are there any particular innovative features in sailing yacht design at the moment?&nbsp;Sailing yachts are perhaps a bit more conservative than motor yachts, but I think that a very good field for innovation is in catamarans, because they are larger and there is the space for innovation. In our own designs, we have tried to make innovative designs by having more openings and greater circulation on the boat: sliding doors, lots of glass and windows everywhere, as well as having more volume on board for clients. People seem to like it very much.&nbsp;