The Netherlands

Oceanco

The French electrical and electromechanical services company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)">Yachtelec</a> has been acquired by the ship repair and maintenance group AMARIX, the owner of MACOR and ETI Services companies. Amarix has acquired a 100 percent stake in the company which is based at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="La Ciotat Shipyards (Company)">La Ciotat Shipyards</a> in the South of France. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system" target="_blank">Yachtelec</a> was founded in 2007 and has worked on more than 700 major yacht projects, with major industry names including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272302/image/large-ea0546e0c00d33ed24f4d6320c131573.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272302">The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, is part of a wider strategy to increase the group’s market presence and to leverage the turnkey project capability of the company’s MACOR brand in the international superyacht sectors. MACOR specialises in the repair of mechanical and hydraulic systems and machinery, fabrication, and pipework. Since its formation in 1986, the company’s four business units has worked on more 3,000 vessels and represents some of the maritime industry’s market leading OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), operators and managers.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272303/image/large-e4cbb96766566bd6db8ae9ff0b316b1a.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272303"></a>“The acquisition of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)">YACHTELEC</a> makes complete sense and strengthens the group’s portfolio,” said AMARIX founder Nicolas Martinetti. “With <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)">YACHTELEC</a> joining the group’s MACOR and ETI Services brands we close the circle to provide a complete turnkey services solution, covering all mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, electromechanical, and electronic systems onboard. We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues to the AMARIX family, now counting 75 employees, and working with them to ensure a seamless transition for our new clients and customers,” he said.Commenting on the developments taking place in the luxury yacht market, Xavier Deval, Amarix Group's Business Director, said: “It is forecast that that the luxury yacht will grow by 8% in the next five years, with the trend being for larger vessels. We are already seeing some yacht refit yards invest in facilities to meet the demand for larger, longer tonnage. But owners are also looking for models with a higher degree of customisation and features, such as state-of-the-art lighting and audio systems. We can now meet this demand. The inclusion of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)">YACHTELEC</a> to our portfolio significantly strengthens our network, almost doubling the number of technical experts and specialists we have in the field.”&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)">Yachtelec</a> Director Remi Colace said: "The acquisition and integration in to AMARIX Group is a great step forward for YACHTELEC, ensuring brands continued development and growth trajectory. This makes us stronger and able to offer more technical packages and expertise to our superyacht customers and more."&nbsp;

Amarix Group acquires Yachtelec

The ship repair and maintenance group Amarix has acquired French electrical and electromechanical services company YACHTELEC. 

Repair and maintenance group Amarix acquires electromechanical services company Yachtelec

Dutch sailing yachts on the market

Discover the SuperYacht Times covets for Dutch sailing yachts currently for sale. 

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Exceptional Dutch sailing yachts for sale

Why work with integrator ONE-XP 

SYT finds out why experts in yachting turn to ONE-XP for their AV/IT needs.

Why ONE-XP: Experts share insights into Dutch technological integrator

It has been some time since we took a closer look at the largest sailing yachts in the global superyacht fleet. With the 127-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023">Koru</a> entering the list in 2022, SYT takes another look at the top 10 largest sailing yachts in the world. You can also now check out our video on the topic here:<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gvRIrCuSx8A?&amp;t=359s&amp;wmode=opaque" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>1.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4450" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sailing Yacht A142.81m (468'6&quot;)Nobiskrug2017">Sailing Yacht A</a>&nbsp;(142.8-metres)<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/83727/image/large-d0b162536ddda1e8c16207c85053fc93.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/83727">No super sailing yacht list would be complete without the mention of the ever-controversial and highly innovative 142.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4450" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sailing Yacht A142.81m (468'6&quot;)Nobiskrug2017">Sailing Yacht A</a>. Officially classified as a sail-assisted motor yacht, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4450" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sailing Yacht A142.81m (468'6&quot;)Nobiskrug2017">Sailing Yacht A</a>&nbsp;blends elements of both sailing and motor yacht designs, but due to those imposing 100-metre-high carbon fibres masts, makes the cut for our ‘largest sailing yachts in the world’ list. Built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nobiskrug (Company)">Nobiskrug</a> and delivered in 2017, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4450" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sailing Yacht A142.81m (468'6&quot;)Nobiskrug2017">Sailing Yacht A</a> is not only the longest yacht on the list, but at 12,558 GT, is also five times larger in volume than the second yacht in this definitive list.2.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023">Koru</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;(127-metres)<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269553/image/large-9f2f51c2f5a9b863f581bff54f059095.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269553"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023">Koru</a> is the second, (or first for those who do not consider <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4450" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sailing Yacht A142.81m (468'6&quot;)Nobiskrug2017">Sailing Yacht A</a> to be a sailing yacht), largest sailing yacht in the world and the largest yacht built by the Netherlands-based shipyard <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/oceanco" target="_blank">Oceanco</a>. She was sold in 2018 to tech entrepreneur Jeff Bezos, and the secretive project was first unveiled in October 2021, when she was rolled out of the shed at Zwijndrecht, the Netherlands. Details surrounding <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/yachts/koru" target="_blank">Koru</a> have been kept tightly under wraps, but the name <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/yachts/koru" target="_blank">Koru</a> derives from the Māori fern-leaf motif, which is a symbol of creation and new beginnings to the native people of New Zealand. 3.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a>&nbsp;(106.7-metres)<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/73477/image/large-c07b142a956e019b98afd0f162227290.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/73477">Designed and built to cross oceans under sail power alone, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a> is was widely considered as the official ‘largest sailing yacht in the world’ at 106-metres in length, before the launch of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023">Koru</a>. Delivered to her owner in 2018 and built by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> shipyard in the Netherlands, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a>, with her sophisticated energy-generation solar system and high-tech DynaRig setup by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dykstra Naval Architects (Company)">Dykstra Naval Architects</a>, is one of the most advanced yachts of her kind and was developed by her boundary-pushing owner, together with a world-class design team. 4.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/669" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="EOS92.92m (304'10&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2006">EOS</a>&nbsp;(92.92-metres)&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/182942/image/large-cb888a4ae5bc39d319e804098d063133.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/182942">At 93-metres, the 1,500 GRT three-masted schooner <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/669" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="EOS92.92m (304'10&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2006">EOS</a> is the world’s fourth largest sailing yacht. She was launched by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen Yachts</a> in 2006 and has been operated since as one of the most private vessels in the world. 5.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/288" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Athena90.0m (295'3&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2004">Athena</a>&nbsp;(90-metres)<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/44738/image/large-1c2ef7f7849765ddec7fe33a01f88223.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/44738">The 90-metre super sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/288" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Athena90.0m (295'3&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2004">Athena</a> was built by the Dutch <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman Shipyard BV (Company)">Royal Huisman Shipyard</a> in 2004. The superyacht’s exterior lines were designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/45" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pieter Beeldsnijder Design (Company)">Pieter Beeldsnijder Design</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dykstra Naval Architects (Company)">Dykstra Naval Architects</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/45" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pieter Beeldsnijder Design (Company)">Pieter Beeldsnijder Design</a> and an interior by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/262" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rebecca Bradley Interior Design (Company)">Rebecca Bradley Interior Design</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/288" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Athena90.0m (295'3&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2004">Athena</a> is one of the largest sailing yachts launched since the 1930s, and with speeds reaching up to 19 knots, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/288" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Athena90.0m (295'3&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2004">Athena</a> can outrun most other sailing superyachts. 6.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a>&nbsp;(88-metres)<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/60684/image/large-ba2fff3fe8c3ae7b34e6c06720072186.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/60684">One of the most iconic yachts of all time and certainly one of the most photographed in recent years, the revolutionary 88-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a> is famed for her sophisticated automated square-rigged DynaRig sail plan. Three towering free-standing rotating carbon-fibre masts hold 25,800 square feet of canvas on 15 square sails delivering exceptional performance, speed and manoeuvrability. The yacht, built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a>, and designed in collaboration with her first owner Tom Perkins, was sold in August of 2009 to her current owner, who actively takes part in superyacht regattas, showing off the yacht's capabilities. 7.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquijo86.0m (282'2&quot;)Oceanco2016">Aquijo</a>&nbsp;(86-metres)<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/8770/image/large-9787572476931cd2ffcba9df7a8fc020.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/8770">Another Dutch sailing yacht making the Top 10 list is the 86-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquijo86.0m (282'2&quot;)Oceanco2016">Aquijo</a> by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters Shipyard</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>. Launched in 2015, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquijo86.0m (282'2&quot;)Oceanco2016">Aquijo</a> is the largest ketch-rigged sailing yacht in the world, with her mainmast towering 88.4-metres above sea level. She features naval architecture and an exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tripp Design Naval Architects (Company)">Tripp Design Naval Architects</a>. Currently, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquijo86.0m (282'2&quot;)Oceanco2016">Aquijo</a> is in the Netherlands for her first Special Survey by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters Shipyard</a>. 8.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6140" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Eagle II81.0m (265'9&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2020">Sea Eagle II</a>&nbsp; (81-metres)<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/168402/image/large-55e965250277fb66103a784cfc12a147.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/168402">This <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman Shipyard BV (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> sailing yacht, <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/yacht-sea-eagle-ii-launched" target="_blank">launched</a> and <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/yacht-sea-eagle-ii-delivered" target="_blank">delivered</a> in 2020, is the shipyard’s largest sailing yacht by volume. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6140" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Eagle II81.0m (265'9&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2020">Sea Eagle II</a> has an impressive 3,500 square metres of sail, and carbon Panamax rigging by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/458" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rondal B.V. (Company)">Rondal</a>. The three-masted schooner was built in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dykstra Naval Architects (Company)">Dykstra Naval Architects</a> and designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4404" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mark Whiteley Design (Company)">Mark Whiteley</a>, and also stands as the world’s largest aluminium sailing yacht at 1,150 GT. 9.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/301" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M577.6m (254'7&quot;)Vosper Thornycroft2004">M5</a>&nbsp;(77.6-metres)<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/183202/image/large-19e53079b60be7d27fbca4b11c064372.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/183202">This superyacht was built in the United Kingdom by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vosper Thornycroft (Company)">Vosper Thornycroft</a> to a design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/52" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ron Holland Design (Company)">Ron Holland Design</a>. The yacht underwent a refit, completed in 2014, at <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, alongside other modifications, the stern section of the vessel was redesigned and extended by 3-metres. However, this refit left her keel slightly unbalanced. An additional, major refit completed in 2020 at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/194" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="NCA Refit (Company)">NCA</a> shipyard, sought to rebalance the keel by cutting her keel in half and moving the ram housing 300 mm forward. Besides her technical changes, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/301" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M577.6m (254'7&quot;)Vosper Thornycroft2004">M5</a> also had a new paint job featuring a three-tone grey livery with a metallic palladium hull, anthracite silver superstructure and crystal silver mast and boom. 10.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4315" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Badis I70.0m (229'8&quot;)Perini Navi2016">Badis I</a>&nbsp;(70-metres)<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7805/image/large-e6246afaadd124db4c12e561c2ca4e27.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7805"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4315" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Badis I70.0m (229'8&quot;)Perini Navi2016">Badis I</a> (previously known as Sybaris) was built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> and is one of the largest yachts delivered by the Italian brand in recent years. Completed in 2016, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> designed the superyacht’s exterior, with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/53" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Philippe Briand Ltd. (Company)">Phillipe Briand</a> consulting on the naval architecture. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="PH Design (Company)">PH Design</a> fashioned her wooden veneer interior. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4315" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Badis I70.0m (229'8&quot;)Perini Navi2016">Badis I</a> can accommodate up to 12 guests in six staterooms consisting of a master suite and five doubles, all with en-suite bathrooms and entertainment centres.

The top 10 largest sailing yachts in the world

Discover the largest sailing yachts in the global superyacht fleet: 143m Sailing Yacht A, 106m Black Pearl, 93m EOS and many more.

The Prime Minister of Antigua, Gaston Browne, has declared that the US has lifted its sanctions on the 82-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a>, enabling its potential sale.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/26819/image/large-e23757180549886d3a8917288858e85b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/26819">&nbsp;The authorisation was announced during the National Assembly of Antigua and Barbuda on Sunday 21 May after the US Department of Treasury issued a licence which allowed “transactions that include but are not limited to, bidding on the purchase of the vessel; paying deposits; and providing financing, insurance, or funding in connection with the purchase.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268484/image/large-42e88e8474e4125149bc9685731f762e.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268484">Antigua and Barbuda's Ambassador to the United States of America, Sir Ronald Sanders said that while the licence permits the government of Antigua and Barbuda to proceed with the auction to sell the vessel, other matters, such as the formal delisting of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a>, from the US Treasury’s Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons (SDN) list, are still being pursued.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268485/image/large-13b792f4320b26fff0056e4019c42818.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268485">“On May 18, the US Department of the Treasury issued licence No. RUSSIA-EO14024-2023-1060959-1, to the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, authorising persons licensed by the US Treasury to participate in the Government of Antigua and Barbuda auction of the vessel <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a>,” commented Sir Ronald Sanders.Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57074" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Update: Bids entertained for abandoned 82m superyacht Alfa Nero (2023-04-06 10:30:00 +0200)">Update: Bids entertained for abandoned 82m superyacht Alfa Nero<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268487/image/large-ddef98a8e459479e6f2140c8d216a7d6.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268487"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268483/image/large-2e227f9605b8cb8bd764782c3924da4e.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268483"></a>The owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a> is said to be on the sanction list issued by the US, the UK and the European Union, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a> was ordered to stay in the country at the beginning of 2022, and has not been allowed to fuel and can only take on emergency supplies.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268486/image/large-0319403cdbd6a4a18032d229abc2810b.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268486">In August 2022, security officials in Antigua and Barbuda conducted a search of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a>. It was announced in a statement by Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Greene, that the operation was led by officers of ONDCP, with support from the Police, the Defence Force and Customs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84285/image/large-152b2c43cd20092c4fd4ac30f6a9bcbb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84285"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84283/image/large-05de92b437eefabe1523edf889939847.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84283"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84295/image/large-fdfafdcea1e7b5a2e20cbfc7aa9c7db9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84295">The superyacht has reportedly been in Falmouth Harbour, Antigua for nearly two years and according to the Antigua Observer, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a> has been costing the government $28,000 a week, not including food and the wages for the crew members.Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/54694" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Update on Russian yachts seized: US imposes sanctions on 89m Russian-owned superyacht Nirvana (2022-12-21 14:15:00 +0100)">Update on Russian yachts seized: 82m Alfa Nero searched in Antigua<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84289/image/large-7cf65094f9ef1d594510586a81c6d50c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84289"></a>Sir Ronald Sanders also commented “this entire process broke new ground; there were no rule books or patterns to follow. In this sense, much has been achieved by a small state.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84290/image/large-65cbe00ebecd25115df20c1b28919ad8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84290"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84294/image/large-290998123199d82be0b140fac2a68b5e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84294">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>-built superyacht was launched in 2007 and sports an exterior by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a> and an interior curated by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/19" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Pinto (Company)">Alberto Pinto</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a> boasts 2,500 GT of volume and accommodation for 12 guests and 28 crew.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84288/image/large-49a73b04ae3761415076e0fafa0af537.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84288">

Antigua and Barbuda to auction 82m Alfa Nero superyacht

Antigua and Barbuda has been issued a licence by the US Department of Treasury allowing them to sell the 82m Russian-owned Alfa Nero superyacht.

Auction of 82m Russian-owned Alfa Nero superyacht confirmed

The bespoke shading solutions company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> was created in 2019 by five entrepreneurs, all with a different but proven track-record in the yachting industry. The group’s backgrounds range from composites to metal constructions, special engineering and 3D engineering, to project management. The Netherlands-based company is now one of the top trustworthy partners for high-end, bespoke shading solutions for yachts, delivering custom made solutions across the world. The company core values are reliability, co-operation and the love for making something beautiful.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/247542/image/large-79c135cf07aef749ba8731025c25b822.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/247542">The name <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> literally means ‘friends of the sun’, and the team believes that making beautiful things is easier if you do it with a happy team of friends. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> provides a variety of shading solutions for yachts, from retractable and removable awnings with carbon uprights, to Louvre systems and parasols. They have worked on over 100 yachts from 30 to 140-metres in length to create and build perfect custom-built products for each of their clients.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/247543/image/large-cce47c38e287f2094f2a70c15238e2c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/247543">During the start-up period, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> acquired its competitor AMBER Sundesign. “We managed to salvage the engineering and some of the best people that were in the company. We used our <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> knowledge and values to improve products and service, all while keeping a good relationship with existing partners. We continue to service clients that have an AMBER system onboard.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/247541/image/large-31e96791c6a8b6e0a27c808952c54f1d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/247541">Recently <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> completed some custom work for the 73.6-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/6297" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sherpa73.6m (241'6&quot;)Feadship2018">Sherpa</a>. The client wanted fully bespoke awnings and windbreakers for the helideck, as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6297" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sherpa73.6m (241'6&quot;)Feadship2018">Sherpa</a> has been known to travel to destinations across the world, including Antarctica. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> spent a lot of time testing these products to make sure they could withstand strong weather conditions and wind speeds of up to 50 knots. To do this, they tested the awnings on an automotive test track in Lelystad, the Netherlands.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270436/image/large-21c6c1ab532847c32b0275a201cb240b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270436">The team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> put the awnings on the back of a truck and drove around 95 kilometres an hour, testing and measuring them to see how well they worked. As a result of this, they are now comfortable enough to say that their tents are able to withstand up to 50 knots of wind!<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270437/image/large-1bbc1c2c53abf2df1bd234f58e14998e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270437">The bespoke and highly detailed uprights used for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6297" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sherpa73.6m (241'6&quot;)Feadship2018">Sherpa</a> were constructed with integrated lights so guests can enjoy the shelter all-day, and even at night. For operational flexibility, the awning and windbreakers have also been designed with fast and easy rigging or removal for crew. As well as this, an electrically operated retractable awning was added above the bar on the sundeck, with a manual waterproof tent above to allow the crew to quickly provide the guests at the bar protection from the rain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/247539/image/large-4d1e6c4da33f32cdd6dd93e988861f0b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/247539">The team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> is committed to providing the highest quality, best designed and most refined outdoor sun awning systems possible. The attention to detail and level of quality-control is therefore extremely high. Every sun awning system at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> is tailor-made by their team of highly skilled craftsmen who are dedicated to the finest details.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/247540/image/large-b714c0ea67a0bcc1137c0a056fddf7e4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/247540"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> supplies precisely engineered high-performance uprights to yachts across the world, made from state-of-the-art materials such as carbon composites in combination with aluminium and stainless steel finishes. “To succeed in this industry, you’ve got to enjoy a nice finish. To offer the client the best level of service, you need to be able to enjoy the fine mechanics behind the products, from design to engineering to production and installation.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/247538/image/large-af9e9c2f1c5eb024c8545b6ec625f6b9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/247538">And it's this level of dedication and passion that makes <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> stand out from the competition. The main focuses of the company are reliability, knowledge, cooperation and, of course, passion. “Designing a custom-made piece of equipment and installing it on a superyacht can be difficult, but with a highly skilled team that meets, plans and works well together, everything is simple.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270438/image/large-dc50c42a98c8ce953546cdded9d28c6b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270438">But none of this would be possible without the incredible knowledge and cooperation <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> has in this industry. The team works relentlessly with everyone from owner, to captain and everyone in between, but also the shipyard to make sure that they find the product they are looking for that fits their needs. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/100026/image/large-624174f617a67f4a66511887b4cf6f7e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/100026">A great example of this is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s 90-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5741" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DreAMBoat90.0m (295'3&quot;)Oceanco2019">DreAMBoat</a>, where the owner wanted a bespoke solid slide-out awning. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> created a 3D measurement while she was in the Netherlands and made the frame, which was then tested with the owner’s representative and the shipyard, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>. Once it had been tweaked and tested again, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> sent it in a box to the U.S. and installed it in just two weeks.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262120/image/large-6575d445f1bbbc86301699f848035593.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262120">The reliability and level of cooperation that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)">SOL-MATES</a> provides is why they are able to work with some of the biggest Dutch shipyards and have a contact book full of repeat clients. “We work with names like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> and not only do we enjoy working with them, but they enjoy working with us too.”<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SOL-MATES (Company)"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/247535/image/large-8005290487df6d10df39b3a4ecf96978.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/247535">SOL-MATES</a> is able to provide clients with a bespoke service from start to finish and is dedicated to making sure that they always meet their needs. “If we don’t have exactly what you need, we will tweak or develop a new product for you to make sure that we are a reliable partner for your needs.”

SOL-MATES shading solutions on what sets them apart from the competition

SYT takes a look at the bespoke shading solutions company SOL-MATES to find out what sets them apart from the competition.

Shading solutions company SOL-MATES on what sets them apart from the competition

The 105-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/300" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H3105.0m (344'6&quot;)Oceanco2000">H3</a> has been photographed on her sea trials in the North Sea. The superyacht, which was re-launched in January after a ground-breaking rebuild, has been pioneered by the shipyard in collaboration with designer <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/reymond-langton" target="_blank">Reymond Langton</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269254/image/large-d9ce10e116007b058294aa8d10be7af1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269254"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/300" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H3105.0m (344'6&quot;)Oceanco2000">H3</a> features a modern exterior aesthetic, including a completely new superstructure as well as a fresh interior from <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/reymond-langton" target="_blank">Reymond Langton Design</a>. Since her launch, the yacht has been undergoing commissioning in Rotterdam and the sea trials are likely to be the first to take place over coming weeks.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269256/image/large-525864ffd5c04da2009b11399671119b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269256">Aside from her physical transformation, the work undertaken brings <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/300" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H3105.0m (344'6&quot;)Oceanco2000">H3</a>&nbsp;into the future with contemporary standards in terms of technology, safety, capability and sustainability. The photographs show a spacious aft deck swim platform with mirrored doors leading to her beach club on the lower deck. Her tiered upper decks feature spacious terraces to aft, with a particularly large terrace on the upper deck, there is also a pool on the main deck.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269255/image/large-ae452fb6507f6349481a4eb7e3c4c002.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269255">She has an operational profile that is fully compliant with rigorous IMO Tier III standards, as well as upgrades to her technological capabilities across the board. SYT featured <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/300" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H3105.0m (344'6&quot;)Oceanco2000">H3</a> in the second edition of its technical magazine How to Build It, <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine/how-to-build-it-issue-2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">you can download it for free now and get the full story, as well as all of the other in-depth features within the magazine</a>.&nbsp;

105m Oceanco superyacht H3 sea trials

The 105m Oceanco superyacht H3 on sea trials ahead of delivery.

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105m Oceanco superyacht H3 on first sea trials

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269144/image/large-2285d33a2ae69da6617ea69b2431b835.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269144">Currently anchored off the island of Mallorca, is the 75.3-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> support yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8946" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeona75.25m (246'11&quot;)Damen Yachting2023">Abeona</a>. The custom-built shadow yacht, previously known as Wingman and YS 7512, was launched earlier last year followed by her successful sea trials in December. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8946" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeona75.25m (246'11&quot;)Damen Yachting2023">Abeona</a> is the support yacht of the 127m <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023">Koru</a>, which has been spotted <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57546" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Exclusive: 127m Oceanco yacht Koru under sail for first time (2023-05-05 18:30:00 +0200)">under sail for the first time</a> in Mallorca last Friday.She sports a grey hull with an orange stripe, with exterior design and naval architecture from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>. Her name <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8946" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeona75.25m (246'11&quot;)Damen Yachting2023">Abeona</a> comes from Roman mythology; she’s the goddess who presided over the departure of travellers. The 1,901 GT support yacht offers accommodation for up to 45 people, including guests, crew and specialist staff.

Damen support yacht Abeona in Mallorca

The 75m support yacht Abeona, built by Damen Yachting, is seen here anchored in Antigua.

The 127-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> Y721 superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023">Koru</a> has been spotted on her sailing sea trials in Palma de Mallorca. The impressive sailing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55683" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="127m Oceanco Y721 superyacht launched in the Netherlands (2022-08-04 08:30:00 +0200)">yacht was launched last year</a> from Alblasserdam, the Netherlands, and completed her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56947" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Video: 127m Oceanco Y721 superyacht Koru on sea trials (2023-02-15 13:00:00 +0100)">first round of sea trials in February</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269141/image/large-5887d872c1c98741acfb1c8681fde42e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269141"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269124/image/large-b211895eb4831daf3ae81acc126aedcd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269124">Koru</a> is the second largest sailing yacht in the world and the largest yacht built by the Netherlands-based shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>. She was sold in 2018 to tech entrepreneur Jeff Bezos, and the secretive project was first unveiled in October 2021, when she was rolled out of the shed at Zwijndrecht, the Netherlands.Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55072" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="In pictures: Stern of Oceanco’s 111m superyacht Project Y722 revealed (2022-05-03 13:30:00 +0200)">In pictures: Stern of Oceanco’s 111m superyacht Project Y722 revealed<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269129/image/large-18368611beb203f1302ba06de82fc491.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269129"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269140/image/large-df031131d5d7489b62900666269b3c46.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269140"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269142/image/large-380c1378b64f181f464d543bb2b041db.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269142"></a>The hull of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023">Koru</a> was built in parts and was assembled by Zwijnenburg at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s Zwijndrecht shipyard, which <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> purchased in 2019. She features a steel hull with bespoke sailing elements.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269138/image/large-161145758b2202730bf387a209d74f51.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269138"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269132/image/large-6d7d7a6caed912e533b680d56c484066.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269132"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269137/image/large-2ae3623d0099d0c20f1c26ccc5e05c5c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269137"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023">Koru</a> features three giant stainless steel furlers, each of which weighs around 900-kilograms. These furlers serve as one of the largest sail areas ever seen in yachting and complement her classical lines, black hull and white superstructure.&nbsp;Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55683" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="127m Oceanco Y721 superyacht launched in the Netherlands (2022-08-04 08:30:00 +0200)">127m Oceanco Y721 superyacht launched in the Netherlands<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269130/image/large-d6f9a7e9dc2130309996d4e3cf5e76fb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269130"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269136/image/large-8da14d0ca13f25611115bb30ba5553ef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269136"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269131/image/large-1565e87328395a3420707bd050010398.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269131"></a>Details surrounding <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023">Koru</a> have been kept tightly under wraps, but the name <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023">Koru</a> derives from the Māori fern-leaf motif, which is a symbol of creation and new beginnings to the native people of New Zealand.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269128/image/large-9634f43824c76b3ad20227ef94aede2d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269128"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269125/image/large-941bb7b3abb4f1977feca0079562ace2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269125">Although the three-masted schooner is the longest yacht ever to have been launched in the Netherlands, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> is no stranger to large vessels. Last year saw the Dutch shipyard launch the 117-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6433" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Infinity117.0m (383'10&quot;)Oceanco2022">Infinity</a>, as well as the 109-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6705" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas109.0m (357'7&quot;)Oceanco2022">Seven Seas</a>. The shipyard also has a 111-metre motor yacht, known as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> Y722 in-build with an estimated delivery date of 2024.

Oceanco yacht Koru seen under sail for the first time

The 127m Oceanco Y721 superyacht Koru, owned by Jeff Bezos, has been spotted on her sailing trials in Palma de Mallorca.

Exclusive: 127m Oceanco yacht Koru under sail for first time

In recent years, the consensus within the superyacht industry has been that ‘biggest is best’, yachts are getting larger every year and superyacht news is dominated by the biggest names on the water. The tiny (by comparison) stars of the yacht construction industry, however, are the yacht’s model counterparts that take pride of place among their paramours and whose builders can hold their own against any of the yachting giants. Take a short walk along the dock at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2022">Monaco Yacht Show</a>, step into the studio of any designer or yacht club, and it is not only the on-water vessels that steal the limelight, it is also the models that represent them. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267544/image/large-04b01483d98697bc4faddb35c1eb3895.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267544">Historically, yacht hull models were used to help owners select their next vessel, and then they were used to commemorate the yacht on the water, displayed in pride of place within the homes of the owner or the club they raced with. While these uses still abound, today shipyards and designers use superyacht models to display their work, unveil new superyacht designs and to record previous models in perpetuity. We spoke with a few of the companies that pioneer within the yacht model industry, and experts shared their thoughts on the value and importance that the models represent.One company whose models become talking points of their own and which never fail to attract the crowds at any yacht show are <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s. The shipyard is known worldwide for its work on future yacht concepts, designed in collaboration with <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> and the craftsmen behind these extraordinary models are <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7126" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scale Models Weston (Company)">Scale Models Weston</a>. Based in Colchester, England, the model makers have been collaborating with the shipyard that is at the forefront of cutting-edge yacht design for years. Jason Shearman, Director of the company explained “The details and technology that we incorporate into the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> models always make for an interesting project and the models produced are a stunning replica of their design flair and showcase our skilled craftsmanship to its full extent.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267556/image/large-25ce98ba119ff6169fdeac1b30f6c52f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267556"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7126" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scale Models Weston (Company)">Weston</a> are a boutique organisation, with a permanent four man team, the craftsmen's ranks are bolstered during busy show seasons with freelance model craftsmen. One of the larger fish in the model-making industry is the Italian company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4884" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Model Maker Group (Company)">ModelMakerGroup</a>, and with over 30 craftsmen, the company builds nearly 400 models a year for top industry names across the globe. The sentiment shared by all of the experts that we spoke to is that yacht models have a vital role to play within the wider industry, bringing drawings to life and giving designers, owners and shipyards the opportunity to touch, feel and investigate a design before metal is cut. Giuseppe Capobianco of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4884" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Model Maker Group (Company)">ModelMakerGroup</a> explains, “Most of the yacht’s we model are yet to be presented to the market, meaning that confidentiality is a must. It also means that our workshops are filled with the vessels of the future, and a tour of our studios would give you a real sense of how the industry develops every year.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267545/image/large-12594031a04e3e845fa0752cd34d87d0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267545">While an onlooker may see yacht models as a toy, like a model car, yacht model construction is a painstaking process that takes months to complete and, as Jason touched on, can feature complex technology. Many of the models we see at yacht shows today are malleable, with parts that can be moved, removed, added to, some even including hydraulic features.Jason Shearman of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7126" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scale Models Weston (Company)">Weston</a> added, “Our models provide a focal point for a marketing stand at an exhibition, board room, or as pride of place on the actual vessel. I believe a model superyacht helps to ignite the imagination of the viewer and creates a visual representation of the lifestyle a real yacht could offer. The features included on some recent superyachts that we have produced have really helped to bring the space to life, from a spa with scent diffuser triggered when the door is opened, to a tiny HDTV installed in the seating area for movie nights under the stars, there is a huge scope in utilising technology to showcase what life aboard could really be like.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267546/image/large-3b111e9247cecc105e79f435223c370f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267546">Brian Klassen, who builds yacht models at his studio in Canada for the yachting and commercial ship building industries believes that models have a vital role to play in the wider industry, despite the improvement in rendering technology. “Models are extremely valuable because not everyone can understand drawings or visualize a new concept. Renderings and videos provide good presentations, but a scale model can be viewed from all angles by a single viewer or multiple viewers gathered around a real, tangible representation, not a screen.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267559/image/large-324a04fe016e2e09313dc7dc9ad5cba4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267559">It's not only within the models themselves that technology comes into play. Like the shipyards themselves, automation and advancing tech is shaping the way models are produced. Guiseppe Capobianco explains, “In almost 20 years of model making we have tested different techniques, invested in technology and researched new production practices. We introduced 3D printing 18 years ago and recently we introduced a new innovative 3D printer to reproduce more realistic details. This machine completely changes the way of designing intricate details within the models and enables us to go deeper into the superyacht design.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267558/image/large-9d1fbce5de10595a6b9481420b9f9723.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267558">The technology within the sector is increasing every year, and AR is becoming more commonplace both on superyachts, and their models. With the demographic of superyacht owners shifting to the next generation, the tech industry is melding with yachting and owner’s expectations for interactivity are changing. “The idea that we can seamlessly connect the real world with the virtual is intriguing and an area that I believe will enhance the model making industry,” explained Jason, “with the overall look and feel of the yacht to be found on the model and the finer details such as the cabins and décor to be overlayed in the virtual world, offering a fully immersive experience.”This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-44" target="_blank">Issue 44 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>.

Scale superyacht models and their makers

Scale models may be small, but they have a hugely important role in the yachting industry. We found out more.

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Small yachts, big impact: A closer look at the scale model industry

Italian design studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pininfarina (Company)">Pininfarina</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/585" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design (Company)">Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design</a> have set up a joint ‘design boutique’ in Porto Lotti. The luxury yacht marina in La Spezia, Italy, is in the middle of the city’s so-called ‘Il Miglio Blu’ (The Blue Mile), that is home to yacht brands <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a>, &nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/363" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Riva S.p.A. (Company)">Riva</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/295" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fincantieri Yachts (Company)">Fincantieri</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5525" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Antonini Navi (Company)">Antonini</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267992/image/large-9cadf814291b351746e10a437d6e16c2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267992">The announcement builds on a strategic collaboration between Torino-based <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pininfarina (Company)">Pininfarina</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/585" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design (Company)">Fulvio De Simoni</a> announced in 2021. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pininfarina (Company)">Pininfarina</a> has a dedicated nautical division that has developed superyacht concepts for &nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>&nbsp; as well as production models for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Yachts (Company)">Princess Yachts</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/585" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design (Company)">De Simoni</a>, already based in La Spezia and best known for his work with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/584" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pershing S.p.a. (Company)">Pershing</a>, has over 3,000 units on the water after 50 years of activity as a yacht designer. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267987/image/large-2371bccfc5529047900b9dec4960598c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267987">The first result of their collaboration was the X2 concept unveiled &nbsp;last year, which drew from both the automotive world and &nbsp;contemporary architecture with the aim of developing a new style &nbsp;language for superyacht design that covers both exteriors and &nbsp;interiors. The X2 will soon be followed by the first &nbsp;joint catamaran project at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/172" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival - 2023 - 2023">Cannes Yachting Festival 2023</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267989/image/large-dd70903efce1f6a9608f1d0bd53fef75.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267989">The new showroom leverages <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/585" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design (Company)">De Simoni</a>’s long experience in the yachting sector with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pininfarina (Company)">Pininfarina</a>’s own multi-disciplinary approach and extensive use of Virtual and Augmented Reality. Prospective owners will be able to interface with design staff in a seafront location, although both studios will continue to receive clients at &nbsp;their respective headquarters<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267993/image/large-78184a1847f6a0ad4c3d2e07a6bf427b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267993">“Apart from serving as a space for meeting new customers in a place where yacht owners are constantly passing through in the summertime, we also wanted a dedicated showroom that catalogues our collaborative projects, both completed and in progress,” says <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/585" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design (Company)">De Simoni</a>. “Working with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pininfarina (Company)">Pininfarina</a> is a pleasure because from the combination of our styles and experiences we will be able to imagine new scenarios for yacht design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267986/image/large-59e8586ec5d99fe9270a034c8e67f16c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267986">Some of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pininfarina (Company)">Pininfarina</a>’s and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/585" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design (Company)">De Simoni</a>’s latest creations were showcased at the inauguration event and it was possible to attend a ‘live sketching’ session with the designers of the two partners. Virtual &nbsp;Reality presentations of recent interior designs were also available.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267983/image/large-9581eae25611806ef40df984eafcd96a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267983">"<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pininfarina (Company)">Pininfarina</a> innovation is a tradition, a concept that lies at the heart of this next step in our synergy between our own 180 or so designers and the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/585" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design (Company)">De Simoni</a> team,” says Silvio Pietro Angori, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pininfarina (Company)">Pininfarina</a>. “It allows us to further broaden our horizons with designs that combine our respective experience and vision, enriching through diversity our projects together.”

Pininfarina and Fulvio De Simoni open joint showroom

Italian design studio Pininfarina and Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design have set up a joint ‘design boutique’ in Porto Lotti.

There aren’t many amongst us who was running a fleet of sailing yachts by the age of 20 – David Westwood, Principal Partner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a> is a rare exception. David has built a strong reputation and portfolio to match. Some of his recent projects include the 62-metre new-build <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a> and the refit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>’s 50.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emerald50.4m (165'4&quot;)Feadship1990">Emerald</a> with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>.&nbsp;SuperYacht Times joined David to get his insights on the market and to hear how buyers’ interests and demands have changed in recent years.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/264905/image/large-fe65cda579f3959b9ba5fac5d52e34f3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/264905">How did you get into brokerage and what are some of your milestone sales and moments?I transitioned from captaincy to agency. Having run a yacht in the Indian Ocean I moved ashore to Malta and set up a service and support company. Charter led to brokerage, during which time I met Michael White as a client.One of the earliest milestones of my career was selling a bank-repossessed 64-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>. I was on a shipyard visit in Livorno and the vessel was on the hard – I had to ask why. The shipyard directed me to the bank and I sold the boat at auction within six months: it was one of the most challenging, interesting and fun sales of my career, and I learned a lot.&nbsp;Another milestone was selling and rebuilding the 56.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Wellesley56.2m (184'5&quot;)Oceanco1993">The Wellesley</a>, which was repurposed for commercial charter. It was an all-consuming project but well worth the effort that myself and the owner put in. A more recent milestone is a project I’m currently working on; the process of building a 500 EXP Explorer with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> for an owner who has aspirations of global cruising. It’s a great project and I thoroughly enjoy working with the owner who is like-minded and hands-on. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266101/image/large-615a6271e06ef7df8af26fb5cfe798c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266101">How difficult has it been to secure new-build slots in recent years?Due to pent-up demand since Covid, it’s been a lot harder to secure build slots and find brokerage inventory. We have had to monitor all current builds and as a result, we have resold several yachts that have gone into default or had contractual difficulties. There have even been cases where owners want to step out or up before the end of the build process. It is a different market but an active one if you’re proactive and responsive. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266104/image/large-ba18ec64d53835bdae09b2d488c894ca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266104">Is there much of a markup on new-builds as a result of high lead times?We have seen a steady increase in new-build prices across the board, mainly driven by labour costs – which often equates to two-thirds of the entire build cost – as well as global supply issues and the increased cost of raw materials as a result. That said, shipyards have had a good run but the heat is coming out of the market and the tide is turning with a looming recession. The price of materials has also begun to stabilise so I am expecting prices to also stabilise. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/257630/image/large-fee4afe0d819b19363e1ed83ed4b98a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/257630">Even more shipyards have started to offer refit and conversion services recently. Is this a reflection of a potential downturn in the market or merely a growing interest in refit?There are always owners who choose to refit instead of buy new due to availability and pricing, but it’s not too dissimilar from the past. I actually think the main reason is that shipyards have delivered a lot more vessels in recent years and have subsequently seen that there is a strong global refit and after-sales demand. It makes sense to future-proof their own business rather than have owners and crew choose other shipyards to refit and maintain their product. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/215725/image/large-9e23884946018fbff6c8f3dc1af3f472.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/215725">Refits are complex by nature but so are the planning and organisation; how do you connect the right client with the right yacht with the right shipyard and team?It’s about relationships: knowing your client and knowing the capabilities of the shipyards. Preempting what they need – which isn’t always the same as what they initially wanted. As a broker, you absolutely have to know the brands and the yards in order to understand which boats are suited to which owners.&nbsp;It’s always best for the resale value if a yacht is refitted by its original builder in order to ensure the pedigree. That said, putting together a team for a full rebuild from interior to naval architect to shipyard is about understanding the brief of the ownership, intended use, the pedigree of the brand and the timeline and budget. These elements will dictate the yard of choice.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266105/image/large-fc07fc00d7e9b1f6acc9e046b501a20a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266105">Is there a one-size-fits-all approach to marketing yachts or do you tailor your approach depending on the brand or size of the boat?Everything we do at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW</a> is tailored. The marketing plan is dictated by the end goal: sale or charter, awards and awareness. We don’t differentiate between 100-metre private superyachts and 30-metre charter boats: all of our clients have individual attention from their broker and the full support of our marketing team to achieve their goals. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/245458/image/large-661f78cf6ca72cf2be221c60fde0c157.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/245458">Have you noticed any significant demand changes from clients in either the brokerage or new-build market?There is a significant shift towards sustainability. Owners are making efforts to be greener and cleaner. Speed requirements are less of a priority than in the past, while comfort at sea is more important, for example, they want more deck space and tend towards displacement hulls. I have also noticed that beach clubs are evolving as people want more connection to the sea – so open-plan transoms are gaining ground and there is less demand for closed beach clubs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266102/image/large-822847f3b788b2b18a74be9156d5f6f9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266102"> A number of shipbuilders are citing China as a market to watch. Do you see this emerging trend and are there other regional markets we should keep an eye on?Industry predictions have said this for the past ten years but to be honest, there are few marinas and limited infrastructure in China. For me, it doesn’t seem like a logical step. I’m interested in Singapore, Brazil, Mexico and Argentina as emerging markets. As a regional market, Saudi Arabia and The Red Sea are burgeoning already. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266103/image/large-e54838e28c2840b58d9b0c11e8f39a3a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266103">

Broker’s interview with David Westwood of TWW 

SYT joined David Westwood of TWW for this month’s broker’s interview. 

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 Broker’s insight: David Westwood of TWW Yachts on the new and active superyacht market

The Mediterranean has a new heavy-weight contender for superyacht refit and repair – and it’s located snuggly in arguably one of the most beautiful coastlines in the Mediterranean Basin. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6770" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic 42 (Company)">Adriatic 42</a> first opened its doors late last year and has already worked on some impressive projects, including the 106.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> motor-sailor <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a>.&nbsp;SuperYacht Times caught up with Friedrich Dreves, Chief Commercial Officer, to learn more about the shipyard and to hear what it’s got lined up. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267270/image/large-ae61e90cb78d8f790ed1b1365d3c1db5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267270">What’s the story behind&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6770" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic 42 (Company)">Adriatic 42</a>&nbsp;and why did you choose Montenegro?Montenegro has a rich history of shipbuilding and repair and the former Bijela Shipyard was its beating heart. The shipyard was founded in 1927 and quickly grew to become the largest conventional repair and maintenance centre in the southern Adriatic. Not only was it the largest operation, it was beautifully located in Boka Bay – one of the world’s safest natural harbours. Sadly, though, it hasn’t been fully operational for the last 15 years, leading to its complete closure. A key piece of the Mediterranean puzzle was missing.&nbsp;Riding off the great success of the multi-award winning <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1857" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Porto Montenegro (Company)">Marina Porto Montenegro</a>, we knew that it needed this piece more than ever. The former shipyard was acquired by PM Holdings LLC and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DryDocks World (Company)">Drydocks World Dubai</a> and transformed back into a premium superyacht refit and maintenance facility. But this time in an innovative, modern and sustainable way.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267271/image/large-8cee98b562e723533e15d276570e6783.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267271">How much of the original Bijela Shipyard did you preserve?After 15 years of non-operation, the shipyard needs complete reconstruction and revitalisation. We restored and refurbished where possible, but many of the buildings are brand new and built to the highest safety and investment standards. It wasn’t enough to work from an old and out-dated facility: our goal is to be one of the cleanest and modern shipyards in the industry – everything had to be state-of-the-art.&nbsp;What services do you offer and what facilities do you have?Our mission is to be the most transparent and highest quality shipyard for yacht refit and repairs. We have an incredibly modern infrastructure that’s complemented by our large floating dock and 720 tonne travel lift. Even though our primary clients are 70-metres and above, we do also welcome smaller yachts.&nbsp;To champion transparency we have an app that our clients can download to their devices. Through this all, clients can see all steps of the project in real time, customs process, delivery, work progress 24/7. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267272/image/large-151af8a6aaa88f78be73f95923160dc4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267272"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl31.4m (103'0&quot;)Diverse Projects2011">Black Pearl</a>&nbsp;was a sensational first project for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6770" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic 42 (Company)">Adriatic 42</a>, but what’s next?&nbsp;Winning the bid to work on the 107-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a> late last year was fantastic. We did a great service and the managers and captains of the yacht were incredibly satisfied; we’re sure they’ll return to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6770" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic 42 (Company)">Adriatic 42</a>.The project proved that the joint venture standing behind <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6770" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic 42 (Company)">Adriatic 42</a> is strong, reliable and trust-inspiring – even for the most demanding clients. It’s still early days for 2023 and we’ve already signed more than 40 superyachts between 30 to 150-metres for refit and repair. It’s a really positive start for us.&nbsp;This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-44" target="_blank">Issue 44 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>.

Interview with Friedrich Dreves, CCO, Adriatic 42

SYT sat down with Friedrich Dreves, CCO of Adriatic 42.

Friedrich Dreves, CCO of Adriatic 42: "A key piece of the Mediterranean puzzle was missing"

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267420/image/large-2889499c7fd1b60e01258e1cc9dc4d57.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267420">Pictured here this week at Marina Port Vell, Barcelona, is the 90-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5741" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DreAMBoat90.0m (295'3&quot;)Oceanco2019">DreAMBoat</a>. Delivered in 2019, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5741" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DreAMBoat90.0m (295'3&quot;)Oceanco2019">DreAMBoat</a> in is the first superyacht project to bring together the talents of designers <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/82" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Espen Øino International (Company)">Espen Øino</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Terence Disdale Design (Company)">Terence Disdale</a>. With a volume of 2,946 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5741" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DreAMBoat90.0m (295'3&quot;)Oceanco2019">DreAMBoat</a> is able to accommodate up to 22 guests, as well as a crew of 27. 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, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5741" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DreAMBoat90.0m (295'3&quot;)Oceanco2019">DreAMBoat</a> is able to reach a top speed of 18.5 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots.

Oceanco’s 90m superyacht DreAMBoat in Barcelona

The 90m superyacht DreAMBoat, delivered by Oceanco in 2019, is pictured here in Barcelona.

90m Oceanco superyacht DreAMBoat in Barcelona

Top 10 largest sailing yachts on the market

SYT takes a closer look at the top 10 largest sailing yachts currently on the market.