Last month, in a bold move to democratise luxury yachting, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8321" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anchord (Company)">Anchord</a> was launched as the world’s first monthly superyacht charter raffle, offering participants the chance to win a fully-crewed, all-expenses-paid week aboard a high-end vessel, an experience that would typically cost up to £100,000.Founded by Oli Riley, the UK-based platform is transforming the traditional charter model into a competition open to anyone over eighteen. We sat down with Riley and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> broker Richard Gray to find out how this new concept came about and to understand how a luxury raffle actually works. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366122/image/large-d59a7776033094821100ae3158ec09d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366122">A charter raffle, how does that work?“Anchord is the world’s first monthly superyacht charter raffle,” says Riley. “Each month, we give someone the chance to win a fully crewed week-long superyacht holiday for them and five guests, all expenses paid. The idea was born from the belief that luxury experiences like this shouldn’t just be reserved for billionaires.”Open exclusively to UK residents, the competition can be entered via the Anchord website through a tiered ticketing system, with a free postal entry option also available to ensure accessibility. Each draw is conducted under UK competition law, and the winner receives an experience that includes flights, full crew, gourmet cuisine, and personalised itineraries. “The winner just needs to bring their passport and some sunglasses,” says Riley.“It’s not just about the prize,” adds Riley. “it’s about building a community, creating engaging content, and giving back to meaningful causes. It’s luxury with purpose and personality.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366123/image/large-eba8294d5052c1a91df1db6a2c001617.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366123">Is there legal oversight?In a market that often blurs the line between gaming and legitimate competitions, Anchord has ensured full legal transparency. “Yes. Anchord has received legal confirmation from Mishcon de Reya LLP that our prize competition model is fully compliant with UK law,” states Riley.Operating under the Gambling Act 2005, Anchord qualifies as a prize competition rather than a lottery or gambling operation. Its structure includes a free postal entry route, equal chances for paid and free entrants, and transparent promotion of both. “Because we meet all legal requirements, including those outlined in Schedule 2 of the Gambling Act, we do not require a gambling licence to operate in Great Britain.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366124/image/large-c97545094d35ca15ae4624ae2492744a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366124">How are&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>&nbsp;involved?Key to Anchord’s credibility and execution is its partnership with international brokerage <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>. The collaboration has enabled the selection of top-tier yachts – such as Daloli, the vessel featured in the inaugural draw and ensured full compliance with industry protocols.“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> is pleased to support a new and imaginative initiative that brings a fresh perspective to the world of luxury yacht charter,” said Richard Gray of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>. “While the model is unconventional, it reflects a bold and responsible vision that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> was open to supporting, provided that all necessary protections were in place for the Owner, charterer, crew and vessel.”Gray emphasised the careful consideration behind the collaboration, stating, “Our team worked closely with Anchord to offer guidance throughout the process, ensuring that industry standards were upheld. We also assisted in identifying a suitable yacht for the inaugural raffle, which has already gained notable visibility and high-quality content production.”The winner of the first raffle, which will be drawn on 20 July, will be welcomed aboard Daloli by her seasoned crew for a bespoke itinerary crafted with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>’s charter specialists.In addition to redefining access to yachting, Anchord supports Naomi House &amp; Jacksplace – a hospice for children and young adults with life-limiting conditions – by donating a portion of its profits. “Every month we make an additional donation to the local hospice in the winner’s area,” adds Riley, underscoring the initiative’s community-centric mission.As Gray concludes: “While IYC is not the organiser of the initiative, we recognise the value in supporting well-structured innovation within the yachting space. We look forward to seeing how Anchord’s model evolves and will continue to provide selective support as their future plans develop.”

Anchord yacht charter raffle 

Daloli yacht anchored

original

small

medium

large

extra_large

Daloli yacht deck

Anchord has launched the industry's first charter raffle with IYC, we find out how this works.

How does a luxury yacht charter raffle work? We find out

Born not from market demand but from a visionary’s insistence that nothing afloat quite matched an owner’s ambition of circumnavigating the globe, is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a>, a 44.2-metre sailing catamaran. Her captain, Gavin Bladen, who has been with the superyacht since her birth, shares the story of how a search turned into a choice to build, eventually allowing the captain, the yacht’s owner as well as charter guests to circumnavigate the globe and experience some of the world’s most spectacular sights along the way.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/258035/image/large-831af2adae2c1c19c203ed188fb6fc4a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/258035">From searching to buildingFollowing a three-month pursuit of finding the right naval architect, the search led to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/39" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VPLP Design (Company)">VPLP</a> in Paris and architects Marc Van Peteghem and Vincent Lauriot-Prévost. For a year and a half, Gavin relocated from the Caribbean to sit shoulder to shoulder with the design team in Paris, refining a yacht that would be a purpose-built platform for tropical cruising and global exploration.The initial project began in 2004, yet <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a>, built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pendennis Shipyard Ltd (Company)">Pendennis</a>, wasn’t launched until 2011, when she made her debut at the Monaco Yacht Show. She entered the market as the largest sailing catamaran in the world by length, a title she held for over a decade. Measuring 44.2-metres with a beam of 16.6-metres and a gross tonnage of 499 GT, she remains one of the most voluminous sailing catamarans afloat. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/258054/image/large-26f3f8c149deecb32e98452e17976759.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/258054"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a> is designed to accommodate up to 12 guests across five staterooms, two of which are luxurious VIPs which can be joined. A crew of 10, including the captain, ensures smooth sailing across the seven seas while guests can enjoy uninterrupted 360-degree views from the main saloon. Her expansive aft deck and generous flybridge challenge long-held misconceptions about catamaran proportions, and across the entire yacht there is the feeling of spaciousness.The interior, realised by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/25" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Michael Leach Design Ltd. (Company)">Michael Leach Design</a>, is textured, contemporary and, perhaps most importantly, enduring. 14 years on, the original flooring remains in place, having been selected for both aesthetic depth and durability. High-wear materials were specified throughout, with indoor-outdoor fabrics chosen for their high-rub characteristics to be able to endure heavy charter use without compromise. The approach reflects an understanding that true longevity lies not in ornament but in thoughtful selection.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/258057/image/large-d7aa3f89215803385e9eb6e75f4e5420.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/258057">Globe trotter<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a> was built for circumnavigation, and has done so three separate times, visiting over 75 countries along the way. From Columbia to the Mediterranean and from India all the way to the Caribbean, there isn’t an ocean <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a> hasn’t crossed.For Captain Gavin, who has had the joy of navigating the sailing catamaran and her crew of 10 along on all these adventures, French Polynesia remains the ultimate cruising ground. “If I could only charter in one country for the rest of my life, it would be French Polynesia.”With over four years of experience cruising French Polynesia, Captain Gavin and his crew know the archipelago like the back of their hand. “It’s stunning, the water wildlife is amazing and the diving is phenomenal.” It’s the type of place that leaves a lasting impression on charter guests and crew alike. “There are spots where we can put our guests in the water with 500 to 700 grey reef sharks during a single dive in South Fakarava in the Tuamotus.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394790/image/large-e498eca3b04e1a3bcfa3d7e89794c902.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394790">Such immersion into wildlife is central to the yacht’s ethos. In Papua New Guinea, guests have ventured into rainforest villages to witness fire dancers, while in Australia, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a> supported filming ‘Welcome to Earth’ for National Geographic. The episode featuring <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a>, titled ‘Power of Scent’, highlights the relationship of tiger sharks and the critical nesting site for green turtles at Raine Island on the Great Barrier Reef. She became the first foreign-flagged superyacht to legally charter in Australia under the relevant regulations, a milestone that underscores her operational ambition.Captain Gavin has navigated the sailing catamaran to the Norwegian fjords, where guests outfitted with crampons traversed ice and dined next to waterfalls. In New Zealand, charter itineraries combined time cruising through Milford Sound and diving expeditions off Stewart Island with time ashore in varying wine regions. No matter where <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a> sails to, the agenda is set to highlight each location’s unique qualities.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/258055/image/large-bd341c48a82ba01379ccaa0fcd0f018b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/258055"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a>&nbsp;for charterWhat makes chartering <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a> so special isn’t just that she’s one of the most iconic sailing catamarans to ever be built, nor her incredible chartering route, but also her crew, who feel closer to family than colleagues. Half of Gavin’s current crew has been with him and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a> for over eight years, and one crew member has been onboard for 12 years.&nbsp;In today’s industry, the retention of crew is much rarer than when Gavin joined: “When I started in the industry, it was about travelling, about adventure and getting the experience.” Considering the remote destinations the superyacht travels, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a>’s crew remains eager not only to adventure, but to share the experience with both the owner and charter guests too.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a> usually sees about 10 to 11 weeks of charter per year, with guests that are as adventurous as her crew, often returning for new voyages across varying regions. Plans for the coming day are discussed between dinner courses, and largely centre around diving and fishing excursions. However, she is also a phenomenal platform for more conventional trips around the Mediterranean; and is outfitted with comprehensive equipment”. The yacht has comprehensive equipment and expertise onboard with the entire crew being well-versed in various water activities. The captain himself comes from a diving background, “I used to be on the great on the Great Barrier Reef”; a place Gavin still loves to take travellers to.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394789/image/large-4f08bf2a54885a2811a70ed54fd56e57.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394789">Sailing towards new horizonsCaptain Gavin and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a> are inseparable, having been part of her every bolt placed and kilometre travelled, yet the iconic superyacht is now looking for a new owner, and is for sale with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a>. Ideally the new owner would be someone who is aligned with the yacht’s original vision, someone who is willing to maintain her properly, invest in her crew and continue chartering her across the globe.&nbsp;The captain highlights that it’s about “finding the right person. There's no rush.” The current owner is looking to tidy up certain elements of his life, yet he is still actively travelling with the yacht and has always been active onboard, diving and fishing &nbsp;around the world alongside his friends and family.The bond that exists between the captain, the owner and the yacht is the result of 22 years of working together and seeing some of the most beautiful places in the world; something the captain hopes to share with whomever will come to own <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hemisphere44.2m (145'0&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2011">Hemisphere</a> next.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/258061/image/large-7da029ca8bbaa54455d5cd21ee70d634.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/258061">

A look at the birth, build and charter of Hemisphere

Step inside the birth, build and circumnavigation of world's most iconic sailing catamaran

home-featured-bottomleft#0

The birth, build and charter of 44m sailing catamaran Hemisphere

This article was first published in the <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Yacht Charter Market newsletter</a>.Before you even step onboard, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raja²55.3m (181'5&quot;)Admiral2025">Raja2</a> stands out from the crowd of white and blue hulled superyachts. Hers is a bronze hull stretching 55-metres, glittering under the Mediterranean sun. Delivered in 2025, this <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/570" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Admiral (Company)">Admiral</a> superyacht entered the Mediterranean charter market in her year of delivery, and was a real attention grabber at this year’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MYBA Charter Show - 2026">MYBA Charter Show</a> in Sanremo in late April, where I had the pleasure of stepping onboard, as well as enjoying a delicious al fresco lunch.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389456/image/large-ef112c4eac27f4e46d7e61bec27f7c1f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389456">Designed for community funWhat immediately stands out about <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raja²55.3m (181'5&quot;)Admiral2025">Raja2</a> is that she’s designed for bringing guests together. Stepping onboard, the beach club immediately stands out, with deck space large enough to lounge around, set up the water toys and dip your toes in the water, creating an easy connection to the sea. The upper foredeck mirrors the spacious and inviting feeling of the beach club, but this area comes with a touch-and-go helipad which also serves as an ideal dancefloor or sunbathing area. Another great spot for guests to come together is the upper deck aft, where guests can enjoy more sunbathing on the sun lounger sofa, or enjoy fine dining around the circular table featuring a lazy susan.&nbsp;The sundeck is an ideal space for guests who like to stay active whilst onboard. Featuring a swimming pool and sunbeds, the space can be transformed into an open-air gym with fabulous views. For those who prefer running on a treadmill, you’ll have to chase the Mediterranean blue from the indoor gym with sliding doors down by the beach club. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395115/image/large-7c2e7570eb2f26bf98747c93a79afb0d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395115"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raja²55.3m (181'5&quot;)Admiral2025">Raja2</a> has all the water toys that you’d expect of a 55-metre motor yacht, and provides multigenerational entertainment, whether snorkelling, wakeboarding or cruising around on a SeaBob. For those who love to explore the underwater world, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raja²55.3m (181'5&quot;)Admiral2025">Raja2</a> includes proper diving gear, and for those who like to go fast, there are jetskis, waterskis and a jetsurf onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395117/image/large-3cc1cbee5eb70b3c6f6228550b692d96.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395117">A look insideAnother stand-out feature of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raja²55.3m (181'5&quot;)Admiral2025">Raja2</a> is her interior design. A unique colour scheme, including shades of black, white, purple and orange, decorates the saloon, located on the main deck. Broad glazing draws natural light deep into the room and reinforces a constant visual connection with the water. A curved deep-toned sofa forms the focal point of the space, softening the room’s otherwise linear framework and introducing a more sculptural note. Low tables, accent chairs and generous floor space create a setting that feels informal yet considered, allowing the saloon to function equally well for socialising and quieter moments onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389462/image/large-a128cc23ddffcb1837a854b198ebc2a5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389462">From here, the interior moves into the dining area, where the mood becomes more dramatic. A circular dining table sits beneath a large tiered chandelier, while an oval ceiling opening above adds height and a more pronounced architectural focal point. The dining area remains visually linked to the exterior, maintaining the spatial openness established in the saloon.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395116/image/large-69a525a1d341aefae2f4b27821ebc617.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395116">Able to accommodate 12 guests across six staterooms, the owner’s suite stretches full-beam and is located on the main deck. The bed forms the centre of the composition and looks out over large windows, which bring natural light into the space. A compact desk and seating area adds a practical layer, reinforcing the stateroom’s role as both private retreat and everyday living space. Decorated in pale upholstery, dark flooring and stone-effect finishes, the owner’s suite established a restrained palette, while mirrored ceiling panels heighten the sense of light and volume.The guest accommodation is located on the lower deck, and includes a VIP stateroom, two doubles and two twins; a sleeping arrangement that is well suited to cater to a broad range of charter groups, including families, friends, and multigenerational groups. Guests staying onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raja²55.3m (181'5&quot;)Admiral2025">Raja²</a> are cared for by a crew of 11, including the captain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389465/image/large-356475cd12e2843acceca5208632f630.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389465">Al fresco lunchA standout feature of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raja²55.3m (181'5&quot;)Admiral2025">Raja2</a> is her crew, and especially their chef. When settling down for an al fresco lunch on the upper deck aft, guests get a waft of whatever deliciousness is being cooked up in the kitchen. During <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MYBA Charter Show - 2026">MYBA</a>, the chef treated the guests to a lunch that included homemade truffle potato chips, which rotated around the lazy susan in the centre, as well as a floral butter with fresh bread, before moving on to the four-course meal.&nbsp;Not only was the multi-course meal delicious, including a phenomenal steak accompanied by potato purée, and an incredible three-layer chocolate cake for dessert, including the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raja²55.3m (181'5&quot;)Admiral2025">Raja2</a> logo imprinted on a slab of chocolate. The tablescaping, too, was beautifully designed, including a large mixture of florals in the decorations, alluding to the city of Sanremo, which is known as the ‘City of Flowers’.Whether indulging in the chef’s creations, lounging on the beach club, or floating in the sundeck pool, time onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raja²55.3m (181'5&quot;)Admiral2025">Raja2</a> is time well spent. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raja²55.3m (181'5&quot;)Admiral2025">Raja2</a> is for charter with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389455/image/large-432def60a3b8cec921991d12615b1732.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389455">

Raja2: Designed to stand out

Step inside the bronze-hulled 55-metre superyacht Raja2

Not every superyacht that looks good on paper actually delivers where it counts. The 53.8-metre (176-foot) <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/57" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mariotti Yachts (Company)">Mariotti</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2706" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Persefoni I53.8m (176'6&quot;)Mariotti Yachts2012">Persefoni</a> is one that does. Built by the storied Genoese shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/57" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mariotti Yachts (Company)">Mariotti Yachts</a> in 2012, comprehensively refitted in 2023, and managed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6674" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emperio Yachting Alliance (Company)">Emperio Yachting Alliance</a>, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2706" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Persefoni I53.8m (176'6&quot;)Mariotti Yachts2012">Persefoni</a>&nbsp; has established a reputation as one of the most technically accomplished and operationally proven vessels working the Greek islands charter circuit today.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392102/image/large-8e949d3ec3ef4642a7416327573908e5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392102">Volume That Speaks for ItselfAt 928 gross tons across a 10.5-metre beam, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2706" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Persefoni I53.8m (176'6&quot;)Mariotti Yachts2012">Persefoni</a> delivers a volume-to-length ratio that immediately stands out for a vessel of 53.8 meters. That's a number that experienced charter professionals recognize instantly – it translates directly into interior spaces that feel genuinely generous rather than just impressive on a spec sheet.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392076/image/large-40b19bf550e54df622789db68353f2f4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392076">Both interior and exterior were conceived by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/58" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luca Dini Design & Architecture (Company)">Luca Dini Design &amp; Architecture</a>, the Florence-based studio known for interiors that prioritise light, proportion, and the kind of spatial intelligence that ages well. Large-format windows bring the Aegean into every cabin, and the master suite features hydraulic balconies that open directly over the water – one of those details charter guests consistently reference when they rebook. A second balcony accessible from the main deck foyer extends that connection with the sea throughout the vessel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392078/image/large-61bedd13977b3718c64ac67d86676697.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392078">Accommodation is arranged across six staterooms – one master, one VIP, three doubles, and one twin – for up to 12 guests. A crew of 13, managed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6674" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emperio Yachting Alliance (Company)">Emperio Yachting Alliance</a>, delivers the service levels that drive the kind of broker relationships and repeat bookings that matter most in this segment.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392089/image/large-6df8f571d7a31a9ccd3372229cb66bc5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392089"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392090/image/large-27201d43d05d6f6adaf5844054c58e74.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392090">Built for Real Passage-MakingThe <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2706" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Persefoni I53.8m (176'6&quot;)Mariotti Yachts2012">Persefoni</a>&nbsp;was engineered for serious blue-water use, not marina appearances. Her Lloyds-classified steel hull and aluminium superstructure reflect <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/57" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mariotti Yachts (Company)">Mariotti Yachts</a>' construction standards, and twin Caterpillar engines deliver a top speed of 17 knots and a cruising speed of 14 knots. A 150,000-litre fuel capacity supports an operational range of 5,000 nautical miles – the practical foundation for a Greek islands charter season that covers the Saronic Gulf, the Cyclades, the Ionian Islands, and the Dodecanese without operational compromise. At-anchor stabilisers rated to genuine zero-speed performance ensure the vessel stays completely stable wherever she drops anchor – a detail that matters enormously in the Cyclades when the summer Meltemi builds through the afternoon.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392094/image/large-b15f94a2461930abaaaafb57de601813.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392094">A Track Record That Goes Beyond GreeceOne of the details that sets the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2706" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Persefoni I53.8m (176'6&quot;)Mariotti Yachts2012">Persefoni</a> apart for operators evaluating high-visibility event deployments is her well-documented track record at the Monaco Grand Prix. The vessel has served as a VIP hospitality platform at the race – including hosting the McLaren Formula 1 team – in one of the most logistically demanding charter environments in the superyacht calendar. That kind of real-world credential carries weight that a specification sheet simply can't replicate.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392069/image/large-861590f5ba4f30f0caea414110f028dc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392069"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392072/image/large-502533e40c9754fab1763e01c613bdb3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392072">The Chef, the Crew, and the Water ToysThe <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2706" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Persefoni I53.8m (176'6&quot;)Mariotti Yachts2012">Persefoni</a>'s chef trained at Spondi, one of Athens' finest Michelin-recognised restaurants. On charter in the Greek islands, that means daily menus built around whatever is freshest at whichever harbour market the vessel is anchored near – locally caught fish, Santorini volcanic-soil produce, cold island wines, and the kind of food that makes a Greek islands charter genuinely memorable.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392074/image/large-5dae5c8c84207f1ecb3b4150994b73fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392074">The water sports lineup includes two <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5777" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yamaha (Company)">Yamaha</a> WaveRunners, two F5S SEABOBs, an E-Foil, paddle boards, kayaks, a wakeboard, and a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2027" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Castoldi S.p.A. (Company)">Castoldi</a> Jet Tender – all deployed from a dedicated beach club at the waterline.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392106/image/large-9db53d957946851883360d4077a99bb6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392106">The 2023 refit updated mechanical systems, guest spaces, and operational infrastructure throughout, ensuring the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2706" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Persefoni I53.8m (176'6&quot;)Mariotti Yachts2012">Persefoni</a>'s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/57" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mariotti Yachts (Company)">Mariotti</a>-built hull and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/58" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luca Dini Design & Architecture (Company)">Luca Dini</a> interiors continue to hold their own against vessels of significantly more recent vintage.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392105/image/large-763cefb8447a27ce24ee4cc96763df2a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392105">For brokers and charter guests evaluating options in the 50-60-metre segment for the Greek islands season, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2706" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Persefoni I53.8m (176'6&quot;)Mariotti Yachts2012">Persefoni</a> is a vessel worth knowing well.

Persefoni yacht charter Greece

The 54m superyacht Persefoni is the ideal charter yacht for Greek waters and beyond.

From Monaco to Mykonos: Inside the 54m Mariotti yacht Persefoni 

This article was first published in the <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" target="_blank">Yacht Charter Market</a> newsletter. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newsletter-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> to never miss an issue. You can read more <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.Delivered in 2024 to Italian owner Maria Francesca Angelini, is the 49.9-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10672" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anjelif49.9m (163'9&quot;)Columbus Yachts2024">Anjelif</a>. The yacht is preparing for her second charter season. Yacht Charter Market Editor Leona Caanen sits down with her captain, Yuri Orselli, and chief stew, Elisa Pes to chat about what makes <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10672" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anjelif49.9m (163'9&quot;)Columbus Yachts2024">Anjelif</a> a stand-out yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332562/image/large-3a4aba26897caf9ffdb0d3c8afbadd82.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332562">“I’m very proud to become the captain,” shares Yuri, on joining <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10672" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anjelif49.9m (163'9&quot;)Columbus Yachts2024">Anjelif</a> earlier this year. “She’s a unique boat with a particular colour and impressive in her design.” Built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6173" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Columbus Yachts (Company)">Columbus Yachts</a>, the 50-metre superyacht sports a metallic bronze hull and superstructure made from aluminium. Elisa, who has been part of the crew for over a year, shares that “I’m very proud to work on this yacht. It’s different from any other yacht; it’s elegant and has unique details.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390907/image/large-878966e624c3be052666ab2b4d926dd9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390907">The yacht features a welcoming atmosphere, emphasised by the use of light colours and large windows throughout the yacht’s interiors. On the lower decks the staterooms also feature natural lighting, complemented by warm lighting integrated seamlessly into the design. The flooring is made with a light wood, which is also shaped as panelling along the walls.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332548/image/large-53871c0d5dab748470877ff2aaddc827.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332548">The sentiment of creating a unique, elegant space was first emphasised in an interview SuperYacht Times did with Maria Francesca, stating that “the main priorities were making <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10672" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anjelif49.9m (163'9&quot;)Columbus Yachts2024">Anjelif</a>modern, eco-friendly, elegant, and sophisticated, with an indoor atmosphere that surrounds people with calm and pure energy.”<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/interview-with-maria-francesca-angelini-owner-of-anjelif?utm_source=yachtchartermarket.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=tranquility-at-sea-anjelif-s-crew-on-running-a-successful-charter-yacht" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Read: Owner insight: Maria Francesca Angelini on her 50m Columbus custom yacht Anjelif</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332551/image/large-19de716eeb94011d0446062de5594e06.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332551">The yacht’s design is well loved by both Yuri and Elisa, and has a layout that facilitates their work and that of the crew without compromising guest experience. With a beam of 9.06 metres, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10672" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anjelif49.9m (163'9&quot;)Columbus Yachts2024">Anjelif</a> has a wide saloon, broad deck spaces and wide passageways ensuring smooth mobility for crew and guests alike. Another remarkable element is that the crew, which counts eleven, are spread across seven cabins.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332537/image/large-2bb5e3cc4c780c89ee7063f7dc6d2285.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332537">Inside, the yacht is designed to be a space of rest and provide a sense of calm to anyone staying onboard. There are five staterooms, able to accommodate 11 guests and are decorated in warm shades of green, yellow and blue, providing a sense of calm for anyone staying aboard. Each stateroom has lots of natural light, and features soft lighting seamlessly integrated into the space’s design. Other spaces of zen inside <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10672" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anjelif49.9m (163'9&quot;)Columbus Yachts2024">Anjelif</a> are her spacious massage room, gym and sauna.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332543/image/large-40ee84d983369bab98ec20855ce3fdc7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332543">The exterior carries this same feeling of calm, and invites guests to come together in a comfortable space, or find their own secluded nook to enjoy some alone time, gazing out across the Mediterranean. One exterior detail chief stew Elisa especially loves is the heated infinity pool, located at the stern of the yacht: “it allows guests to go swimming without worrying about weather and sea conditions.” Whether floating around in the pool, sitting in the Jacuzzi, or enjoying a movie in her open-air cinema, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10672" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anjelif49.9m (163'9&quot;)Columbus Yachts2024">Anjelif</a> is designed to relax and entertain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332554/image/large-2577ea767a4fd3adf9e9fd9f78ef0436.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332554">A charter, of course, isn’t complete without top-notch cuisine, and this all-Italian team has incredibly high standards. “Of course our chef had to be Italian,” Elisa says, “he is amazing and sets our charter apart from the rest.” Guests can enjoy delicious meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner, whether in the dining room, main aft deck, or on the sun deck during sunset.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332557/image/large-b7fbd13f83ed33f833a96e34b41a5151.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332557">No matter what guests desire, Elisa ensures that her crew provides the dream charter experience; whether it is planning excursions to historical sites, a delicious family meal, or turning the yacht into a party yacht. “Every week is different, it’s fun for us as crew” she shares. This diversity is precisely why Elisa joined the industry seven years ago: “every day changes, I love this. I meet many interesting people and have the opportunity to visit these beautiful places.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390908/image/large-2353a6579f1636ec10bd40f72f11e074.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390908">For captain Yuri, the diversity is a source of growth. Having started his career in the Italian navy 24 years ago, and over time making the switch to the world of private yachting, his curiosity is endless: &nbsp;“I always want to grow in my career and learn what I can. Captaining a yacht for both private and charter use is a very great experience.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332572/image/large-e320765de70dc483deb2f0796b9ae980.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332572">With a crew led by a passionate and experienced captain and chief stew, guests and owner alike are in good hands when onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10672" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anjelif49.9m (163'9&quot;)Columbus Yachts2024">Anjelif</a>. This upcoming charter season, Yuri and Elisa will cruise the yacht across the Western Mediterranean, with their sights set on the South of France, the Balearics and Greece. For now, Elisa and Yuri are focused on preparing the best possible charter for any guests that steps aboard, motivated by the guest experience of last year: “a charter guest said it was the best charter of his life,” Elisa shares, “this is something I am very proud of.”

captain and chief stew managing 50m Anjelif

The Yacht Charter Market sits down with captain Yuri and chief stew Elisa of the 50m Anjelif

Anjelif's crew on running a successful 50m charter yacht 

This article was first published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/p/summer-2026-a-mediterranean-escape-onboard-52-metre-sailing-yacht-q" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Yacht Charter Market</a>&nbsp;newsletter. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newsletter-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> to never miss an issue. You can read more <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.As the summer season approaches, our attention is focusing on the Mediterranean and finding the best yachts to charter along the French Riviera, the Greek coastline, or in the azure waters of Sardinia.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7782/image/large-5f961fb109ebc0fb3342872cdc0cdf7c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7782">One sailing yacht that has caught our eye is the 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/401" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Q52.0m (170'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Q</a>. Built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/401" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Q52.0m (170'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Alloy Yachts</a> in 2008 and refitted in 2024, the ketch features naval architecture and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/35" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dubois Naval Architects Ltd. (Company)">Dubois Naval Architects</a>, with an interior penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/56" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reymond Langton Design Ltd. (Company)">Reymond Langton Design</a>.&nbsp;Having just participated in the St. Barth Bucket Regatta, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/401" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Q52.0m (170'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Q</a> is finishing up her Caribbean season before making her crossing to the Mediterranean, where she will be cruising around the French island of Corsica and the Italian island Sardinia. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7778/image/large-0446475cabac39f7093b5429d9db7be1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7778">Onboard the 52-metre ketchAble to accommodate up to 12 guests across 5 staterooms, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/401" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Q52.0m (170'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Q</a> is designed to bring charter guests together whilst out at sea. Each stateroom sports warm coloured interiors, each with their own colour accent ranging from green to red to orange. The guest staterooms vary in their set up, with two queen sized beds and two twins with pullmans, offering a versatile layout, depending on the group chartering the sailing yacht. The master cabin stretches the full 10-metre beam and has a king size bed, en suite bath and creates the feeling of a sanctuary out at sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250487/image/large-aac8eb3de901cf67f88099ccda51d0e4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250487"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/401" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Q52.0m (170'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Q</a>’s interior features a flowing open floor plan, and has ample natural light. The saloon is wrapped in panoramic glazing and provides an uninterrupted connection to the sea. While <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/401" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Q52.0m (170'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Q</a> has a large dining table on her main deck, most meals are enjoyed up in the cockpit where guests can enjoy a sea view whilst dining.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250482/image/large-9b65bddb5d9df81a31fa81f19f054aea.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250482">Her exterior features generous teak decks, an all-weather cockpit with fully retractable windows, flybridge ideal for catching much of the sailing action and a fold-down swim platform, all designed to accommodate guests who desire adventure, as well as those who desire indulgence. Her foredeck features a Jacuzzi, framed by sunpads, ideal for taking in the endless views of Mediterranean blue.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/15658/image/large-87461c3d95e0315685a2b8e08e8e623c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/15658">An Italian GetawayChartering a yacht such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/401" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Q52.0m (170'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Q</a>, the itinerary needs to be as spectacular as the ketch itself. A trip onboard the sailing yacht could look a little like this:The sun is climbing up in the sky and, after a proper Italian breakfast consisting of a cornetto e un cappuccino, guests will embark in Olbia, Sardinia and set sail towards the island of La Maddalena, ideal for jumping into to crystal clear waters and testing out the yacht’s amenities, especially her elusive toy collection, including snorkelling equipment, seabobs, a wakeboard, water-ski, paddle boards and various inflatable toys. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7781/image/large-5962c29a85b800d05f9fcdbc88b4f47c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7781">Wind up the day with a nice cocktail and al fresco dinner on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/401" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Q52.0m (170'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Q</a>’s aft deck, overlooking the sea whilst the sky turns from blue to yellow to purple and pink, before the sun dips into the Mediterranean sea.The next few days can be spent cruising along scenic coastlines and quaint ports the likes of Bonifacio, Lavezzi and Porto Vecchio, before once more heading to Olbia, in Southern Sardinia.

A Mediterranean escape onboard 52m sailing yacht Q

Explore the Mediterranean onboard sailing yacht Q this summer.

This article was first published on the&nbsp;<a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/p/ela-the-heesen-designed-for-the-rhythm-of-charter-life" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Yacht Charter Market</a>.Attending the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/313" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palm Beach International Boat Show - 2026">Palm Beach International Boat Show</a> last week, there was an abundance of great charter yachts and even more fantastic crew. One particular yacht that stood out was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ela49.9m (163'9&quot;)Heesen Yachts2021">ELA</a>, a 50-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, for charter with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/201210/image/large-8b11464936f4f1b98837b9b8eb496838.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/201210">Welcoming me onboard is chief stewardess Eden, from England. She shows me around the yacht and shares that she’s been with the yacht for a couple of months. Previously she worked on private yachts, but was eager to learn the ropes of a charter yacht. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ela49.9m (163'9&quot;)Heesen Yachts2021">ELA</a> has been a wonderful opportunity as “we’ve cruised around the Caribbean for a full year,” Eden shares, “I’m looking forward to head to the Mediterranean this season.”The tour starts off in the main saloon, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer unobstructed ocean views and an abundance of natural light. An array of blue decorate the mostly white leather furnishings, reflecting the ocean. The interiors feature a warm, dark wooden flooring that creates a soft contrast with the bright interior, which is designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/205" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cristiano Gatto Design (Company)">Cristiano Gatto</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314315/image/large-8087d4300dfd3f956f77ed8aba887602.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314315">The dining table, which can seat up to ten guests, is a unique feature of the saloon. Underneath the semi-opaque glass top sits a light system that allows the table to be lit in soft hues such as purple, blue and green, and even has a disco feature, making it ideal for an evening of festivities.One deck below sits the owner’s suite, stretching full beam. A stunning space with windows stretching from floor-to-ceiling, offering ocean views upon waking and matching the various shades of ocean-blue that colour the space. Furthermore there is a spacious bathroom with a his-and-hers sink as well as a bidet. The closet has ample space and comes with a dedicated shoe rack. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314319/image/large-1e181c4adde07a4b67a58fdf81091525.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314319">Other guests can stay in any of the four remaining staterooms, each of which is decorated in its own earthly shade, complementing the calm energy of the yacht’s interiors. The bedding, towels, and carpet are lined with the colour unique to the room, making each space feel unique. “It makes laundry easier too!” Eden jokes.Another striking feature of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ela49.9m (163'9&quot;)Heesen Yachts2021">ELA</a> is her gym. While frequently placed in the beach club, onboard this <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, the gym has its own space, and includes a reformer pilates machine, two bikes and a space to lift weights. Also present are a shower and dayhead, and a very spacious sauna.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314359/image/large-b6c1e34a5e2b84cb6b6b75b70778ff95.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314359">Next Eden takes me to the sundeck, which is a dreamy area. It fits a Jacuzzi, a full bar, a long, shaded table for al fresco dining, and sun beds ideal for getting a tan. The view from the sun deck is amazing: now, during the show we seem to be higher up than most surrounding sun decks, offering a great view of the yachts on display and the Palm Beach coastline. Out at sea this would be a great place to hang out whilst cruising along the French or Italian Riviera.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314356/image/large-a38b63b5f26a1095a88c1932b340d85e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314356">While hard to choose, my favourite spot on the yacht is the fore deck. When the tender is out in the water, the space gets filled by a large cushion, ideal for lounging in the sun, reading a novel or enjoying a morning coffee. It also makes a great space for sipping a cocktail whilst enjoying the sunset, or, once it’s dark, the crew can put up a screen, making it a great spot for a movie night under the stars.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314366/image/large-70cc3106282612d0a7c98a154a24f90a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314366">What is striking about this <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> yacht, built in 2021 and sitting at 499 GT, is that, while she is a great fit for charter, she’s also a perfect yacht for private use, whether to spend time with your family or with friends. There are ample spaces to come together, whether to relax and sit in the Jacuzzi on the sundeck or enjoy al fresco dining on the main deck while cruising at sea, yet <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ela49.9m (163'9&quot;)Heesen Yachts2021">ELA</a> also has plenty of nooks and corners to escape to and enjoy some down-time, making her a great yacht for any type of guest.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ela49.9m (163'9&quot;)Heesen Yachts2021">ELA</a> is heading to the Mediterranean this summer where she is available for charter with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314363/image/large-2e08625d601f5c67e6dc0273e85e7438.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314363">This article was first published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/p/ela-the-heesen-designed-for-the-rhythm-of-charter-life" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Yacht Charter Market&nbsp;</a>newsletter. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newsletter-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> to never miss an issue. You can read more <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.

ELA designed for charter life

YCM takes a look onboard the 50-metre Heesen yacht ELA during the Palm Beach International Boat Show 2026.

ELA: The Heesen designed for the rhythm of charter life

Leona Caanen, Editor of the Yacht Charter Market, sits down with the captain of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3</a>, Burger van der Walt, to discuss the magic of the sailing yacht and her preparation for the St. Barths Bucket Regatta.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388282/image/large-c6bbca71f8349dff6c22ff8dc7f32bc6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388282">You’ve been with Perseus^3 for a long time, can you talk me through your shared history? What drew you to the sailing yacht and what has kept you around? I first started with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3</a> during her build, so we’ve had 13 years together and are still going strong. I took over as captain in 2016, and since then we’ve been around the world, raced in regattas, and built up a charter following which I’m very proud of.&nbsp;I’ve loved to be on the water for as long as I can remember, and through university I taught Yachtmaster courses, so it was a natural step to work onboard sailing yachts. Additionally, their itineraries tend to be more appealing: large sailing yachts have a vast range allowing us to travel further afield and explore more remote areas. Sailing yacht clientele and owners are also different, with a more adventurous approach that can make working onboard very fun.&nbsp;Throughout the years, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3</a> has provided a mix of experiences with racing, cruising off the beaten track, and charter, which have been engaging for all the crew. I’ve also been fortunate to work for an owner whose thirst for discovery and bold sense of adventure have truly defined the experience onboard. He’s ensured <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3</a>’s programme is about exploration and getting the most enjoyment out of our time on the ocean; as you can imagine, it feeds into a work-life that’s very addictive.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388280/image/large-e7329ce4ee4be963dcc326cb1b35c20f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388280">What is it like to captain such a versatile sailing yacht that can charter, partake in races, and traverse the globe?&nbsp;It’s a challenge but very fulfilling. I have an incredible crew and the experience they deliver to guests has seen some of our charterers return for more - something we love! Having a varied programme helps us keep things exciting for guests. As a captain, it means extensive forward planning. We are always looking ahead to ensure we have everything in place for the trip, charter, or regatta we’re embarking on; even if that means planning two years in advance. For example, the St Barth’s Bucket starts next week but we made our first bookings for it 18 months ago.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388278/image/large-8321fb19af3dfa035b5754ae0b1eb68e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388278">Can you tell me more about your racing experience with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3</a>?We love to race. It’s a chance to push <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3</a> to her best and each regatta we compete in, we focus on ramping up our performance over the last. Aside from myself and the crew, we have a team of rigging, and professional race crew behind us, and between us all, we plan throughout the year to get the best performance from the yacht. This year we’re going into the regatta with new sails and a few changes to our rating and we’re expecting to gain a few more knots of speed, so I’m looking forward to testing Perseus^3 against the other competitors. Aside from that aspect, bring together yachts, owners, guests and crew, and it’s guaranteed to be a good time. The thrill of racing and the atmosphere of a regatta are something I think everyone should experience, and we always enjoy making sure our guests have a memorable week. The comrade of the race crew is truly something to look forward to.Currently the countdown is on for the St. Barth’s Bucket Regatta! For us, it’s about outdoing ourselves. We know the speeds we achieved in our last regatta and we’re on track to beat them. I want to see the yacht perform at her best and to do it safely. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388281/image/large-ba788071da55d66cce2b4195bce043a5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388281">You’ve recently returned to the charter market, what has Perseus^3 been up to and what are you looking forward to in welcoming charter guests again?Early in 2025 we returned from our trip travelling the globe. It was an incredible experience for both owner and crew, taking us from the beaches of Brazil to the winds of Patagonia, rounding both Cape Horn and the Cape of Good Hope, exploring the Pacific, voyaging through Australia, to Indonesia and Madagascar and finally South Africa, before making our way to the Mediterranean.&nbsp;We were exclusively private while the owner explored the world over the last few years and came back onto the charter market at the end of last summer. We are just rounding out our charter season in the Caribbean now, and we’re looking forward to the guest trips we have lined up for the Mediterranean later this year. Being back in our old stomping grounds of the Mediterranean and Caribbean has been fantastic - visiting our favourite spots and discovering new ones. We find we have a balance between the two cruising grounds, plus some charter guests who are interested in joining us in both places, which we love; but there’s a strong possibility we’ll be venturing out further afield again soon; watch this space!Guests who are attracted to sailing yachts are often outgoing and adventurous; our charter guests tend to give our watertoys and diving gear a good workout. We have lots of guests onboard who are familiar with motor yachts but who want the thrill of heeling over on a large yacht; something I’m very happy to deliver. I also really like to get guests on the helm so that they can feel the power of a yacht like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4147" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perseus^360.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2015">Perseus^3</a> when she’s under sail. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388279/image/large-8112e96a943264dc57b6df57b2805733.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388279">Are there any specific parts of the journey that have had a lasting impact on you? We’ve been to some incredible places. Right now, we have the glaciers of Patagonia, the culture of the South Pacific, and the West Coast of the USA in our rear view. We have cruised through Australia and spent time amongst the 74 islands of the Whitsundays. From there, we ventured through Komodo and Raja Ampat where the diving, the scenery and the people left an indelible impression on us all. In Madagascar we were greeted by the people of our bosun’s village; a truly touching experience for the crew to see him welcomed home, and that was before the welcome the yacht was treated to! The dancing, the food, meeting the people who had shaped our bosun and enjoying time with his family; it was one of the most emotional points of our journey around the world. But it was the destination after that which has become a hugely significant moment in my sailing career, personally. Leaving Madagascar, the yacht crossed to South Africa where I relieved my co-captain, Darren Rennie and began the journey down the coast and into Cape Town. Twenty eight years ago I was teaching people to sail on Cape Town’s harbour, and dreaming of working on superyachts, so to sail back into the same harbour was a full-circle moment for me. We celebrated with a blast of the cannon as we rounded the Cape of Good Hope, followed by a fantastic welcome home on the dock by the friends and family of our South African crew members. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303004/image/large-237ed7406b018ae69cf11fc42ef1b63f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303004">This article was first published in the <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/p/perseus-3-from-racing-regattas-to-circumnavigating-the-globe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Yacht Charter Market</a> newsletter. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newsletter-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> to never miss an issue. You can read more <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.

Perseus^3: From racing regattas to circumnavigating the globe

The YCM speaks with the captain of Perseus^3, Burger van der Walt, to discuss the magic of the sailing yacht.

Having closed off the last Mediterranean charter season with her 100th charter, completed over the course of seven years, is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a>. Responsible for this 30-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/599" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Couach Yachts (Company)">Couach</a> yacht’s success are Tina Collins of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="West Nautical (Company)">West Nautical</a> and Captain Ashley Oberholzer. The Yacht Charter Market dives into what makes <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a> so special, as she gears up for the upcoming Mediterranean charter season.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/339616/image/large-978be0ec31dfad05adccb7e97d100e50.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/339616">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a> is one of the most successful charters of her size range,” notes Tina, Head of Charter Management at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="West Nautical (Company)">West Nautical</a>. Shortly after last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, the motor yacht reached the incredible milestone of her 100th charter. The success comes from a mix of the yacht’s wonderful crew, headed by Captain Ashley, and the yacht’s design, which is a mixture of clean, bright aesthetic with a warm wooden finish in her staterooms, as well as her broad selection of watertoys. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/339637/image/large-83477c72e0370cb150eb896db172e74a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/339637">Captaining&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a>Captain Ashley, who has spent nearly a decade at her helm, speaks about the yacht with a familiarity that shows not only understanding of what the vessel has to offer, but also reveals his vast knowledge of her technical detail. For Ashley, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a>’s appeal begins with the fundamentals: “She’s easy to manoeuvre at slow speeds,” he explains, “and she cruises happily at 21 to 24 knots for up to 16 hours.” Her 1.8-metre draft allows her to anchor where others hesitate, slipping into aquamarine shallows along Sardinia, Ponza, Capri and the Amalfi Coast. That shallow keel opens up an intimacy with the coastline that larger yachts often forgo.The yacht’s builder, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/599" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Couach Yachts (Company)">Couach</a>, is known for its seakeeping pedigree, and Lady Amanda reflects that heritage. Her Kevlar reinforced hull offers a reassuring solidity, while a 20-centimetre keel running along her centre line provides responsiveness in random swells. Her low profile reduces top heavy roll, enabling her to cut through weather when required. Performance here is not bravado. It is confidence.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/339622/image/large-3515d6e63f87ae86f911eeeb05400f67.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/339622">A home on the waterThe yacht, built in 2006, has been refitted in 2021 and is fully equipped for chartering the Mediterranean. Able to host up to ten guests across four staterooms, guests often enthuse about the stateroom configuration: with double-bed staterooms throughout, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a> distinguishes herself from other yachts in a similar size range that often support two double-bed staterooms and two twin-staterooms set-ups. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a>’s configuration makes her the ideal charter yacht, whether hosting a family vacation or a trip with a group of friends.On the main deck, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a>’s saloon is bright and welcoming, creating an ideal space for bringing guests together, whether to lounge on the comfortable, cosy white sofa whilst gazing out of the broad windows, or gathering around the dining table for a family meal prepared by the chef. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/339624/image/large-11a0cc434ed7aead18f0c2b3f9723c44.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/339624">Yet to enjoy <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a> at her best is to spend time lounging outside, whether on the beach club, with easy access into the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean, or on her sundeck, where guests can enjoy the sunset in the Jacuzzi with a cocktail in hand. Her three separate sun lounging areas allow moments of privacy between shared exhilaration, and the sun deck provides a vantage point over harbours that range from Monaco during the Grand Prix to the quieter bays of Sicily and Ponza. No matter where onboard guests find themselves, the views are bound to be great.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/339627/image/large-5a5190df6612eb8e48b1884831391d46.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/339627">Built to entertainPossibly <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda’s</a> strongest asset is her incredibly large selection of watertoys, including a five metre slide, an ocean pool, a crane swing, seabobs, paddleboards, waterskis, snorkelling, fishing and spearfishing gear and even a golfing pad with biodegradable balls. Her crew of four, including a watersport instructor, love being out on the water with the guests.Captain Ashley refers to the massive selection of water toys as the yacht’s true signature. Launching them is seamless, thanks to generous working deck spaces and a heavy crane capable of deploying slides, jet skis and inflatables with ease. Systems on board are doubled, simplifying maintenance and ensuring reliability during busy back to back charters. For a yacht that has surpassed 100 bookings, such redundancy is not indulgence. It is essential.Tina emphasises this, stating that “I think it's a unique experience with a very attentive crew on board, who love what they do and wish to deliver 100%. She also has an amazing selection of water toys, a great sun deck and a spacious saloon. So it really does have something for everybody.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/78275/image/large-7000fc111f83aef44594fdfac5abae99.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/78275">A Mediterranean gem<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a> operates exclusively in the Mediterranean, a deliberate choice: She was not built for transatlantic crossings or Caribbean circuits. Instead, she thrives in the varied yet contained theatre of the Mediterranean, where waters are ideal for play and scenery shifts dramatically within a single day’s cruising. From the glamour of the Côte d’Azur to the rugged drama of Sardinia’s granite coastline, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a> moves effortlessly with speed and purpose.Captain Ashley recalls whales and dolphins playing off the bow, fireworks in Cannes reflected across the water, and sunset anchorages that render even seasoned travellers momentarily silent. The yacht has hosted families drawn to watersports and open air living, as well as high profile events during the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Formula One. Each charter demands a different rhythm; flexibility is part of the brief.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/339615/image/large-fd074e5219dab0aa6360409f4df3d733.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/339615">A well-loved superyachtTina Collins of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="West Nautical (Company)">West Nautical</a> has represented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a> for nearly a decade. She describes the yacht as “a unique experience with a very attentive crew”, a sentiment that echoes through her conversation. Atmosphere, she insists, cannot be purchased. Layouts may resemble one another across the 30-metre segment, yet the feeling onboard is what defines a week at sea. That atmosphere has been carefully cultivated. The crew return season after season, creating continuity that guests sense immediately.&nbsp;In a market saturated with new launches and record breaking dimensions, there is something quietly radical about consistency. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a> dominates her niche with reliability, atmosphere and an unwavering commitment to experience. Onboard, the ultimate charter experience unfolds between spray and sunlight, between shared laughter on the swim platform and the hush of an evening anchorage.To charter her is not simply to book a yacht. It is, as Tina once suggested, to leave feeling “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7527" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Amanda29.68m (97'5&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Lady Amanda</a>” yourself.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/339634/image/large-cd6c7af99358b86b7749a20227b68c2b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/339634">This article was first published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/p/a-100-charters-in-seven-years-this-is-lady-amanda" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Yacht Charter Market</a>&nbsp;newsletter. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newsletter-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> to never miss an issue. You can read more <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.

A 100 charters in seven years: This is Lady Amanda

Managed by West Nautical is Lady Amande, the 30-metre yacht that completed a 100 charters in seven years.

Last week, Features Editor Leona Caanen attended the inaugural Sydney Charter Show, located at Jones Bay Wharf and organised by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia</a>. Over the course of a week, the Sydney Harbour was overflowing with the presence of superyachts and sailboats, starting off with the Sydney Charter Show on Sunday 21 and Monday 22 of February, followed by the Australian Superyacht Conference held on Tuesday, February 23.The remainder of the week and weekend saw the preparations of the SailGP and the race on Saturday and Sunday where the iconic Sydney Harbour served as a backdrop. Here’s what you might have missed:<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386838/image/large-175d95569695bfcf11e74c059e17cadd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386838">Sydney Charter ShowWhat used to be just a superyacht soirée, has turned into a proper two-day show, hosted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia</a>, which is the peak body for the Australian Superyacht Industry. With a key focus to promote the South Pacific’s international competitiveness as a destination for the global superyacht fleet, as well as to increase visitation of superyachts to Australia and bringing awareness to the capabilities of Australian facilities to service and support visiting vessels’ needs.The debut show saw 19 charter yachts attend, ranging from the 54-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/984" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mischief54.0m (177'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2006">Mischief</a> with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahoy Club (Company)">Ahoy Club</a>, to 27.45-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13010" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Orraia27.45m (90'1&quot;)Horizon Yachts2024">Orraia</a> as well as the 36.9-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1475" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lumir36.9m (121'1&quot;)Heesen Yachts2005">Lumir</a>, built in 2025, to the 39.72-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3509" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Faenoe (Company)">Faenoe</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5107" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Cloud39.72m (130'4&quot;)Faenoe1990">Southern Cloud</a>, built in 1990. Other superyachts included <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13010" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Orraia27.45m (90'1&quot;)Horizon Yachts2024">Chaos</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bluestone 130.9m (101'5&quot;)Gulf Craft 2023">Bluestone</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12154" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Empire29.12m (95'6&quot;)Vicem Yachts2023">Empire</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5647" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Belle29.9m (98'1&quot;)Moonen Yachts2016">Belle</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5814" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rascal35.05m (114'12&quot;)Sunseeker2015">Rascal</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6839" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oneworld31.68m (103'11&quot;)Gulf Craft 2018">Oneworld</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2465" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Little Perle29.18m (95'9&quot;)Moonen Yachts2008">Little Pearl</a>,&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shore Thing35.05m (114'12&quot;)Lloyds Ships1986">Shore Thing</a>,&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Pamela30.48m (100'0&quot;)Azimut Yachts2000">Lady Pamela</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/805" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Evolution 139.0m (127'11&quot;)Oceanfast2008">Evolution</a>, as well as a few yachts under 24 metres.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386837/image/large-ac0da85bb823e7037bbe2ed82a21e0f5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386837">The show took place at Jones Bay Wharf, and featured the iconic Harbour Bridge and the Star Casino as the backdrop. Brokers, event sponsors, owners and potential charter clients roamed the dock during the two day event, with the Sunday being open to the general public. Monday featured a Media Morning, hosted by Melinda Frowde of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia</a>, for lunch, brokers were invited by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahoy Club (Company)">Ahoy Club</a> onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/984" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mischief54.0m (177'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2006">Mischief</a> to enjoy a three-course meal. The second day of the charter show concluded with welcome drinks for Tuesday’s conference.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386848/image/large-bd4a199879df2ee4571aa34d7a13e318.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386848">Australian Superyacht ConferenceOn Tuesday, attendees flocked to the Dolton House in Jones Wharf Bay where <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia&nbsp;</a>hosted the Australian Superyacht Conference. The conference included eight speaker sessions with various industry experts and focused on putting Australia and the greater South-Pacific on the global yachting map, as well as solutions to overcome hurdles still in the way.The event was kicked off by an opening speech from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia</a> CEO and Master of Ceremonies, David Good, followed by a welcoming speech from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4342" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Echo Yachts (Company)">Echo Yachts</a>’ Marketing Director, Chris Blackwell. Chris highlighted that this conference is “positioning Australia not just as a cruising ground but as a competent builder” and to place Australia on the map as a “first choice cruising ground.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386847/image/large-97e0760ecd3711ae1ea4e15f7f725784.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386847">The first speaker session saw captain and author Brendan O’Shannassy share the story of how he ended up becoming a superyacht captain, before shifting to the current challenges Australian crew are facing and how local laws impact possible yachties. Ending on a high note, Brendan highlighted the value for young Australians to explore the superyacht experience, both within Sydney and greater Australia, as well as gaining valuable experience in Europe and the Caribbean and bringing that back to the South Pacific.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386854/image/large-600a473b817ed4200448af659ef2d0f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386854">The second session was a Q&amp;A, where David Good conversed with Tom Slingsby, a competitive sailor, Olympic Gold Medalist (2012), and SailGP three-time consecutive world champion, alongside Laura Esteve from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1850" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="BWA Yachting (Company)">BWA Yachting</a>. Laura has been working closely with the SailGP team to bridge the gap of yachting to sailing, and brings superyachts to the edge of the race course for spectators to enjoy a prime view of the race, working to immerse spectators in the event through their Adrenaline Yachts programme.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386853/image/large-badd699f1f273412b60f00ac774f78b6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386853">Following a mid-morning break, the next sessions saw Mike Sager, from Ankor, discuss how the industry is rapidly changing, especially relating to charter, and the role that software and AI can play in facilitating not only guest experience, but also the work happening behind the scenes. Mike was followed by Eleanor K. Roi, from the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8430" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maritime Cook Islands (Company)">Maritime Cook Islands</a>, who highlighted how yachts operating under the Cook Islands flag creates a sense of confidence when moving across the region.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386852/image/large-a8bf87bd9e03e9134e35fa908f00ba61.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386852"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386840/image/large-fd03c9e37da02317759b359db1e796c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386840">After lunch had been served, the next session was a panel discussion between Cameron Bray from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7294" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Superyacht People (Company)">The Superyacht People</a>, Jeff Pfaff from Tax Navigate Australia, and Kane Bygrave from Aurora Logistics on the challenges faced by foreign flagged vessels in the region, and the tax implications present both for foreign and local flagged vessels.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386839/image/large-12d56a934432f161d73f8f17cba6e55a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386839">From there, the conference shifted its focus on the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, explored by Stephen Joyce from the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia</a> team, who emphasised that the Olympics comes with a wonderful opportunity to host a lot of superyachts. Stephen continued by sharing the steps already being undertaken to ensure marinas can house large superyachts, ensuring local suppliers are ready for a high demand of their products (i.e. wines, meats, dairy, vegetables), and organising for nearby airports to serve as parking spaces for private jets that are unable to park at Brisbane airport.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386851/image/large-c9eecadf3956ec4de98acd5174e53584.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386851">Next was Zac Bailey, maritime lawyer and principal at Indo-Pacific Solutions, who spoke about compliance laws that are coming into effect this June, and what that means for the yachting industry. Zac's presentation, titled "Navigating the 2026 Compliance Horizon: Offshore Structures, Tax Residency, and the Operational Advantage of Being Ready" emphasised that, while these compliance laws might seem tricky, they are already the norm in Europe and the Americas, and are aimed to create a more transparent, less risk-averse industry.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386849/image/large-07d75d22672189057fc81d4a7e37f5c4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386849">The conference’s final speaker was Melissa White from the International Seakeepers Society, an organisation that bridges the gap between science, conservation and the yachting community. Guided by a deep commitment to ocean conservation and education, Melissa, who serves as Director of the Seakeepers South Pacific, highlighted how her organisation leads regional initiatives, partnerships, and programs that join up superyachts and advance marine science and stewardship, and creates access to research opportunities across the Pacific.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386850/image/large-09e0bfdf8eca4ae1ad64a959a4c2b7f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386850">The biggest takeaway from the Australian Superyacht Conference is that the South Pacific is not only ready, but also eager to welcome an increasing number of superyachts. Any hurdles in its path are not just thought of, but are actively being discussed and solved.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386856/image/large-9422445f80dde749215c14baf90bd019.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386856">SailGPThe last piece of this week’s puzzle was the attending of the various SailGP events. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1850" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="BWA Yachting (Company)">BWA Yachting</a> manages and delivers the SailGP Adrenaline Yachts Program, a premium superyacht experience taking place at nearly each SailGP event across the globe, including Sydney, Bermuda and Auckland. Adrenaline Yachts welcomes superyachts to the races, positioning them in the front row where guests and crew witness the thrills, spills, daring manoeuvres and near misses as the boats push their limits racing.On Thursday evening there were welcome drinks and a captain’s brief for the eleven attending superyachts at the Sydney SailGP, discussing where to position the yachts, how the markers move throughout the race, channels of communication and ensuring everything would run smoothly over the weekend. &nbsp;The following day included a tech-tour, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how the F50s (the racing boats) are made, where the teams train when not on the water, and the opportunity to meet some of the racers.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386855/image/large-a1b950fd31c4825d210a247701caba3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386855">Saturday was the first race day where teams strive to collect as many points as possible. Sunday the real magic happened, as eleven superyachts, many of which also attended the charter show, set out on the water into the VIP zone, ready to spectate the four races. Three of those races were aimed at gaining points to qualify for the finals, which was the fourth race of the day. Spain, Great Britain and the United States qualified, with the United States claiming their first victory in over three years.

What you missed: Sydney Charter Show, Australian Superyacht Conference and SailGP

All you missed at last week's inaugural Sydney Charter Show, the Australian Superyacht Conference and the Sydney SailGP.

What you missed down under: Sydney Charter Show, Australian Superyacht Conference & SailGP

Arctic: Onboard with Captain Paul Crierie

Sophie Spicknell sits down with Captain Paul Crierie to find out more about the history of the 88m converted deep sea salvage tug Arctic.

Video: Onboard the 88m Guinness World Record yacht Arctic with Captain Paul Crierie

In a time where privacy is one of the highest forms of luxury, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4943" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtCloud BV (Company)">YachtCloud</a> has refined and luxurised service onboard superyachts. The most popular of their technological products making yacht life easier, is the GEST Service Call System. The call button is the most popular element of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4943" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtCloud BV (Company)">YachtCloud</a> portfolio, which is made up of six products in total: OMNIYON, YIS, CrewBoard, LaundryBoard, ECHO and GEST.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4943" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtCloud BV (Company)">YachtCloud</a>, based out of Rotterdam, The Netherlands, is a product developer that focuses on delivering premium technology for the world’s most discerning clients. Established in 2014, the company has over a decade of experience in the delivery of their premium tech, and is dedicated to crafting yacht experiences where technology and craftsmanship work together in harmony to enhance comfort, safety and enjoyment at sea. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397415/image/large-ea8c1696d8ca02546b0c4dd98dfca9ce.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397415">Call systemThe GEST is a service call system: “When owners or guests onboard want service, they can press the button, which sends a notification to the crew,” shares Lucie Hubert, Strategic Marketing Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4943" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtCloud BV (Company)">YachtCloud</a>. “Crew members accept the request, which turns the button green, so the guests know someone is handling it.” From there, a crew member will come to inquire about the request. Once completed, the crew marks the open request as completed and the button is once again ready to go.The purpose of the GEST button is to ensure privacy, “there is no microphone on the physical button, it’s something we don’t want to include precisely because of privacy. If you press it, someone will actually have to come to you”, Lucie adds. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397416/image/large-5254a21c41376a0e75f4b6f98a415eed.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397416">There is also a digital version of the GEST Service System, which works just like the physical button, but here there is a chat function. “You can send the notification, but also chat directly with the crew members and share your request right away.”The goal of the button, besides ensuring smooth seven-star service, is precisely that privacy. Instead of standard WhatsApp groups on yachts, the button ensures no personal information other than necessary needs to be shared. “It reduces those big group chats that we often see onboard yachts. With the button you can directly notify the chef or the chief stew or a deckhand - everything can be separated to specific crew”, Lucie points out. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397414/image/large-e6bad529c046ba1db80d1cfbcab50ec7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397414">Onboard superyachtsThe very first prototype of the GEST Service System was built in 2018. Two years later, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4943" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtCloud BV (Company)">YachtCloud</a> had sold their 100th button. “Three years ago, we sold 100 buttons to a single project,” Lucie recalls. From there everything has just grown really fast.&nbsp;How many call buttons each yacht orders, depends mostly on size. “We see two options,” notes Lucie. “The first one is that the yacht just wants it in common areas, such as the lounge or the aft deck. The second is that we see yachts who want a call button in every single room, including all the staterooms.” The type of buttons tends to be a mix between physical and digital “often we see the digital buttons for the staterooms and the physical ones for the common spaces.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397410/image/large-99a82fc3ec98842b421aecb0ce521275.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397410">Design &amp; craftmanshipThe button’s physical design is well in line with the luxury service it is designed for. Each button is completely customisable, “you can have a ring engraved, or the yacht’s logo or name, even the material is fully customisable,” Lucie notes. “You can have the ring on the button in 24K gold, stainless steel, dark or light bronze.” Even the leather of the button is customisable: “we had a client who wanted a specific leather. We said, ‘just send it to us and we’ll make it happen’, and we did.”<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4943" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtCloud BV (Company)">YachtCloud</a> prides itself in their flexibility and ability to craft their product to their client’s ideal design. Their service meets the luxury standard as well, “we have a great support team and we keep track of when there are button breakdowns and they need replacing.” The backend of the system is entirely remote, “we can access the system of all of our clients and jump in to fix it when needed, without needing to be physically present.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397404/image/large-0c13641a7634989dcedd535fe56b7615.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397404">When the issue cannot be fixed remotely, the button is sent to the warehouse, which sits next to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4943" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtCloud BV (Company)">YachtCloud</a> headquarters in Rotterdam. It is also where the company does their refurbishing “we are working to be more sustainable, and as these buttons are used daily, they can of course obtain damage overtime. We’ve introduced a system where buttons can be sent to the warehouse and the ring, leather, or any other element is fixed, checked, and sent back to the client.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397405/image/large-ed866489b68104d857921b411ec65394.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397405">Challenges along the wayNo successful product comes without its challenges along the way. “When we started, the battery life was a big challenge” shares Lucie. The button’s battery would last about a day, and would take numerous hours to charge. “Now, a button lasts up to three to five days, depending on usage, and can be fully charged in four hours.”&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4943" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtCloud BV (Company)">YachtCloud</a> is continuously working to improve the button. “We’ve gone from a battery life of two days to a battery life of five days”; a huge jump in the battery’s longevity. “If the battery life goes under 20 percent, the chief stew will get a notification that it needs charging, so everyone is always in the loop.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397401/image/large-6c30e57e733fef9ba0ec5045380161f5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397401">A happy crew is a happy yachtNo challenge has been too big for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4943" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtCloud BV (Company)">YachtCloud</a>, and they’re continuously working hard to incorporate any and all feedback they get from clients. “We pushed a new colour, white, because one client specifically wanted it,” shares Lucie, “any idea the client has, we’re always open to hear it because we want our product to cater the client to the best of its ability - it’s how we develop our products and our company.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397403/image/large-145e0eba96f58a68a1e5d6628f07a332.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397403">The feedback from clients, captains and crew has been invaluable. One captain of a 42-metre motor yacht emphasised how the “GEST system was set up in minutes, is loved by our owners, guests and crew.” The electro-technical officer of another 40-metre motor yacht noted how the GEST system has “been a great addition to our operation. It allows guests to request service, drinks or whatever they need while giving them complete privacy when they don’t want to be disturbed. It creates a smooth, intuitive and professional experience onboard.”The goal of products like GEST, and of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4943" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtCloud BV (Company)">YachtCloud</a> as a whole, is to create a connected yacht experience - one where technology and craftsmanship work in harmony to enhance comfort, safety and enjoyment at sea.

How YachtCloud's GEST is redefining service onboard

A look into one of YachtCloud's most popular products, which is redefining service onboard superyachts.

Early March, Jim Offield returned after two years of circumnavigating the globe onboard sailing yacht&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2089" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend34.14m (112'0&quot;)Alloy Yachts1999">Legend</a>, just in time for his 76th birthday. Leona Caanen sits down with Jim to dive into his journey sailing the seven seas onboard the 34-metre ketch.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397312/image/large-2d480c55397f28e4576e480c910ab08e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397312">As the world was closing up in July 2020, Jim’s longtime captain and dear friend Bruno, found the perfect ketch sitting for sale, docked in Palma de Mallorca. After a quick tour via FaceTime, Jim bought the yacht and had Bruno prepare it to set sail. Jim made his way to the yacht, where Gibraltar authorities granted him a sole 24 hours of entry before he and his yacht needed to leave.What followed was Jim’s very first Atlantic crossing on a sailing yacht. “We did the Atlantic crossing in August and I absolutely fell in love with offshore sailing. It was an absolute magical trip,” Jim shares. Crossing the Atlantic in the middle of hurricane season is quite a feat, but <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2089" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend34.14m (112'0&quot;)Alloy Yachts1999">Legend</a> showed what she was capable of and with Bruno captaining the vessel, Jim felt right at ease.After that, Jim, Bruno and the crew spent four years leisurely exploring New England and the Caribbean, sailing from island to island. After exploring much of the region, Bruno and Jim were having coffee one morning on shore when the question arose: what next? Having previously travelled to the Pacific and Oceania onboard a 156 foot <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta</a>, Bruno floated the thought of sailing around the world onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2089" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend34.14m (112'0&quot;)Alloy Yachts1999">Legend</a>. A simple ‘why not’ from Jim and a plan was made. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397341/image/large-e986b042286f4f2e39e0b8b2219a4a49.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397341">Around the worldIn early April of 2024, Jim and his wife, captain Bruno and their crew set sail from Savannah, Georgia, heading towards the Panama Canal. From there <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2089" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend34.14m (112'0&quot;)Alloy Yachts1999">Legend</a> sailed towards the Galapagos and towards New Zealand, taking time to sail past many islands of the South Pacific that lay along the route, the likes of French Polynesia and Tonga.To sail to such remote places, witnessing stunning wildlife along the way, felt like a true sailor’s journey, but in the comfort of the 34-metre superyacht. All these sailing experiences, exploring the Mediterranean, crossing the Atlantic, and cruising around New England and throughout the Caribbean, making minor tweaks to the vessel along the way, had unknowingly prepared her for the circumnavigation. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397298/image/large-cf68dc5ec2d388b4dac703ab8511d9ff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397298">Designed 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> (exteriors) and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a> (interiors) and built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/60" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alloy Yachts (Company)">Alloy Yachts</a> in 1999, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2089" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend34.14m (112'0&quot;)Alloy Yachts1999">Legend</a> is a sturdy lady. Bruno shares how, as ”Jim goes to bed quite early, sometimes, when we sail at 10 or 12 knots through the night, he’ll come up in the morning and not have felt a thing!” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2089" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend34.14m (112'0&quot;)Alloy Yachts1999">Legend</a> was the right choice of vessel for the journey they took.One of the most exciting legs of the journey was sailing from Cairns to Cape Horn, through the Indian Ocean. “98 percent of this trip is going to be spectacular,” Captain Bruno had said to Jim, “but two to five percent of it, you're going to have to hold on to your shorts. And it didn't let us down.” The Indian Ocean is notorious for its strong, unexpected monsoon-like winds and heavy rains, accompanied by a chaotic sea with waves coming in from all directions. “In the middle of one of those days when it was full on, Jim looked at me and he goes, ‘it's worse than you said it would be!’”. As the duo tells the story, Bruno laughs, “I always said to Jim, ‘you haven’t crossed an ocean until you’ve sailed an ocean!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397339/image/large-9ffd3d4bc8d1c964c524477a86d0a59e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397339">Harmonious sailingHaving known each other for 25 years, Jim and Bruno share a special bond. Something that, in turn, had a positive effect on the rest of the crew. ”We travelled with an amazing group of people and many friendships were born,” shares Jim. “Being alone in the ocean for so many days with such a great crew, it’s the experience of a lifetime. It was harmony in every sense of the word.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397343/image/large-317e67d451ee84abdd838a57bf53debb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397343">Captain Bruno points out how Jim is also very conscientious of the crew’s well-being. “One day, in Tonga, Jim and his family went diving with the humpback whales. But I know that, if I don’t also get a boat for the crew to go diving, Jim won’t be happy.” Everywhere <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2089" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend34.14m (112'0&quot;)Alloy Yachts1999">Legend</a> sailed, Jim shared his experiences with the crew. “We would go diving, hiking up a mountain, or skydiving, and leave to go sailing in the evening but no one would complain because we had the most terrific day,” Bruno notes. “They were &nbsp;just like, ‘okay, what's the next adventure?”To have such camaraderie onboard over the course of two years has made the journey even more valuable to Jim. “Being 75 years old, there are no words to describe how absolutely magnificent it was to be able to do this, as an owner; to be part of the crew, to enjoy such a journey. I would have to say it's the greatest accomplishment in my life.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397400/image/large-246ee0ced6e7b7d52bb60e4bf1c45023.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397400">So why sell?Upon arrival back home to the US East Coast, Bruno held a speech and tears were shed, and within six hours of being on land, the crew talked about going back out for another trip around the globe. Yet a trip like this you can only do once for the first time: “I just don't think the repeat of it would ever compare to what we just did,” Jim says“I’m a big believer in not duplicating: there are other parts of the world and other adventures I want to do. I’m starting to feel the age a little bit, so I’m ready for a bit more comfort” Jim shares. Now, Jim is looking to explore on a more comfortable, slightly smaller yacht, “but I’ll never give up travelling the ocean!”“The boat was always there for us. She was amazing” shares Bruno. “Jim and I both feel that it's a pity we don't see more owners taking on these experiences.” The hope is that Jim’s experience will inspire not only the new owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2089" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend34.14m (112'0&quot;)Alloy Yachts1999">Legend</a>, but other owners to traverse around the world. A sailing yacht the likes of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2089" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legend34.14m (112'0&quot;)Alloy Yachts1999">Legend</a> is born to circumnavigate and she’s more than proven her capability. “To cruise the seven seas on a sailing yacht is to truly experience the open Ocean,” notes Jim.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397313/image/large-9eaa45403680c94f2b2494324778a6a0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397313">

Traversing the seven seas onboard Legend: "It's the experience of a lifetime"

After sailing around the world onboard his 34m Alloy sailing yacht Legend, Jim is ready for his next adventure.

travel-hero#1

home-featured-topleft#0

Just as physical tank test models are giving way to computational fluid dynamics, so another form of virtual modelling is coming to the fore – the digital twin. But what is a digital twin, and how can we use them to streamline superyacht design, construction and operation?Providing an exact definition of a digital twin can be tricky, not least because different people use the term in different ways. With conceptual origins tracing back to NASA in the 1960s, the truth is that digital twins come in a variety of forms and offer multiple applications – all of which have the potential to change the approach to design and enhance the operational effectiveness of superyachts.“I haven’t found a consistent way that people use the term,” says software developer Boudewijn van Groos. “For example, some call a simple 3D model a digital twin, even if it doesn’t make predictions. It might show live sensor data from the vessel, but it’s really just a portal into the actual ship. That is fundamentally different to a software model that mimics the behaviour of a system based on physical or statistical calculations. Yet people refer to both as digital twins.”Models created in a software environment are arguably the purest form of digital twinning. They are increasingly being used both to train AI and to enable systems developers to code the core parts of a yacht’s controllers while the physical yacht itself is still in build – a decisive factor when faced with tight construction and delivery schedules.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397081/image/large-c63a38ee887c535cd43a28154e353077.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397081">Virtual virtuesVan Groos is leading a team of software developers who are undertaking the coding of a multifaceted monitoring and control system aboard Project Zero, the renewables-powered sailing yacht under construction at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters Shipyard</a>. In collaboration with German company XRG Simulation, they have been building a virtual version of the yacht’s systems in Modelica, which allows them to write the code for the programmable logic controller (PLC) for the thermal harvesting and recovery system, for example, and test it before the physical system has been completed. While the team has also been using a current sailing superyacht as a test bed, creating a digital twin has brought additional benefits.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397079/image/large-c1ba2f94baf775740a49c5322a0b5621.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397079">“For everything we’re doing we first write the physical thing into code to form the digital twin,” Van explains. “That simulation can be very basic, or a deep mechanical simulation. It gives us an opportunity to prevent regression bugs and it means we can avoid having to run our code on a physical system that means needing the real machine every time, which is just a hassle.”Developing a digital twin not only creates a platform for virtual testing, it also provides an opportunity to explore or to train AI, which can have real-world applications in a finished project. Indeed, this is the approach that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3559" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Videoworks Group (Company)">Videoworks</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a> took, in collaboration with the University of Pisa, to develop the systems on the 42.84-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12135" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seawolf X42.84m (140'7&quot;)Rossinavi2024">Seawolf X</a> catamaran.“On a yacht you have a lot of very high-tech systems, each optimised and each with sensor actuators,” explains Maurizio Minossi, CEO and CTO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3559" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Videoworks Group (Company)">Videoworks</a>. “The idea is to create a sort of manager that grabs the data coming from the different subsystems and, thanks to the use of AI algorithms, gives it added value in terms of monitoring and control.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397078/image/large-3bbe7f4296cb60275d58eb400d1d5976.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397078">“AI algorithms need to train on something – you need a story,” adds Sergio Saponara, director of the Department of Informational Engineering at the University of Pisa. “But if the technology is new, how do you create that story? Creating a digital model of a yacht allows you to fill the AI with data. You analyse the chiller in a model, then you combine it with all the other models to create the whole ship.”The system they have developed, which has been designed to be modular for use across multiple yacht designs and configurations, integrates various network-connected sensors, smart plugs, and actuators, such as HVAC systems, lighting, and automated blinds, orchestrated by an advanced AI algorithm. The digital twin enables the simulation of different configurations and operational scenarios, generating virtual data that can be used to train AI models – a useful approach given the challenges of limited experimental data on energy consumption and passenger habits.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397077/image/large-efe714be9d6f415bcddaf70b66ca2da0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397077">Test rig&nbsp;It’s not just in systems design that digital twins are being utilised. For Dale Morris, Group Head of Global Design at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2447" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Spars (Company)">Southern Spars</a>, the development of digital twins has enabled advanced, in-the-box testing before a rig is stepped – a serious advantage given the one-off nature and complexity of superyacht masts and sail plans.&nbsp;“The outcome is what’s on the water, but the model that came before it has been through all the conditions,” he says. “It starts with base mast properties, rigging pre-tension and tuning, but we add in the actual moulded sail shape and structural files from North Sails, and then we can assess the rig to a whole other level.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397082/image/large-2efc90f958531c34f23220a01c23ffdf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397082">This allows the team to see the effect of their rig design choices even down to its impact on the actual shape of the sails. They can go into a whole CFD loop, where the fluid structure interaction (FSI) loops back into the non-linear FEA – non-linear because the mast is flexible. That essentially means they can sea-trial the yacht before any carbon fibre even gets laid in the mast mould.“That also flows through into how we communicate the safe operation to the customer with all the sheet runs and all the load interfaces, so that boatbuilders can build-in the right safety factors,” &nbsp;Morris explains. “You can assess all that within the digital twin.”It also impacts the initial sea trial phases because, rather than the traditional method of stepping a mast and eyeballing the rig to tune it and ensure it is set up symmetrically, it can effectively be pre-set. Gone are the days where you put the rig in, go sailing and flop from tack to tack, make changes, rinse and repeat, which can be a two-day operation.“We are able to virtually go sailing before we even put carbon in the mast tooling, and for yacht designers, owners and crew that’s a huge benefit because it elevates confidence before you get further into the project,” &nbsp;says Vincent Guiot, Group Sales Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2447" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Spars (Company)">Southern Spars</a>. &nbsp;Further, the applications extend to the operational phase. By using the information from the load sensors from specific conditions. If something doesn’t look quite right, the team can plug that data back into the digital twin and help someone on board diagnose the issue more efficiently.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397080/image/large-77d39333b2a17751661ad462a20fdfc0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397080">Practical magic&nbsp;As CAD has advanced, so 3D models have become commonplace, not only in terms of determining the underlying engineering layout of a vessel but also to ensure the vessel can be built as efficiently as possible. But when one superyacht project approached Dutch company Goltens to take that 3D model further, the potential for an all-encompassing digital twin quickly became apparent.“Normally we design, engineer and create 3D models, and during that process a lot of information on the components – size, material, capacity, make, model – is put into a database,” says Sandra Jutte of Goltens’ Green Technologies division. “But when the vessel departs, most of that information, which can number thousands of data files, stays behind. For this project, we were asked how we could collect all the engineering data in one place during construction and use it to make the yacht smarter in operation.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397085/image/large-8490e120db5880a524554f471c7eb9b6.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397085">To achieve that, the Goltens team combined ongoing 3D scanning during the build with CAD and engineering drawings to create a digital version of Project Zero that is a perfect match for the real thing. The result is that all the information on the build, systems and components is available for easy access – especially useful when it comes to fault-finding or in the event of a system alarm.&nbsp;“You need an exact copy of the yacht, so during the entire build our team has been on site with a 3D scanner capturing every stage of the build,” says Jutte. “We’ve scanned every detail, including 100,000 metres of cables and six kilometres of piping.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397086/image/large-39fff693692206113bdc5e36b8ec672b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397086">Every pump, pipe and system is connected and with e-sharing it’s possible to click into the engineering drawing and instantly jump to the same spot in the 3D model, and vice versa. All relevant details and spare parts listings are available with a click. What’s more, the digital twin will form the backbone for predictive maintenance and, potentially, AI-rooted energy efficiency and systems analysis during the operational phase – an aspect that could have huge impact for a project where every kilowatt counts.The potential goes further, however, because wherever the vessel goes, the digital twin goes too. This means designers can use the digital twin to experiment with new ideas or test layouts without ever touching the real vessel, while engineers can follow system performance and simulate improvements, and and owners can explore their yacht anytime, anywhere.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397087/image/large-8c4ef31785ce28bc95f037d27cf282ff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397087">Such a comprehensive scan-based digital twin improves maintenance aspects – with all manuals and spare parts lists easily accessible, and with the potential to add predictive maintenance algorithms – but also aids efficiency in a refit phase.&nbsp;“Refits and repairs are no longer a guessing game,” says Jutte. “Because if a component needs to be replaced or a new component fitted, the digital twin already knows what’s there currently and if the new one will fit. It means you can order or prefabricate parts with confidence. It’s a complete feedback loop between design, operation, maintenance, fault-finding and improvement.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397089/image/large-cbdce16aec81ad92d4d28edb2f355442.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397089">

How is virtual modelling transforming superyacht design and operation

From rig testing to predictive maintenance, digital twins are reshaping how superyachts are designed, built and operated.

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8076" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marina Port Valencia (Company)">Marina Port Valencia</a> has announced that the inner marina, Marina City, is now complete as part of their phased transformation. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397349/image/large-033282147cabe8f5a2ddb1d15d41bc62.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397349">Led by the IPM-IMG Group and Ocibar, the project aims to revitalise the three marinas that previously hosted the 2007 America's Cup, while introducing a cutting-edge refit yard, a state-of-the-art dry dock and modern commercial spaces.Read more: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/62614" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="First renderings of new Marina Port Valencia development unveiled (2025-02-14 12:45:00 +0100)">First renderings of new Marina Port Valencia development unveiled</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397347/image/large-02f98e636005af30408a0493b3b9cb49.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397347">The Marina City is now ready to welcome its first customers for the summer season with a full range of premium services. Positioned in the most sheltered area of the port, it has been designed to welcome yachts between 12 and 130 metres and boasts an exclusive central pontoon with berths from 15 metres available for sale or rent for ten, fifteen or twenty years.Construction will soon begin at Marina Norte on a collection of new office buildings designed to attract leading companies and create a hub for networking, innovation and talent. Local residents will also be able to benefit from a restaurant that will open in the former Panorama building.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397346/image/large-ad9d771b5b626cd1085ee90660cd52f1.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397346">The redevelopment of the marina will be completed in planned phases over the coming years, with local residents able to experience the marina’s new public spaces as each stage is completed.With landscaping designed by GM Paisajistas, in coordination with the architects at ERRE Arquitectura, the plan links Marina Norte, Marina City and Marina Sur through a landscaped ‘green corridor’, creating a continuous route for pedestrians and cyclists lined by Mediterranean vegetation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397348/image/large-4ff447ed4895040fef35c2236798337f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397348">With this project, Marina Port Valencia will reconnect the city with the waterfront,” explained <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8076" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marina Port Valencia (Company)">Marina Port Valencia</a>. "In doing so, it responds to local leisure needs while providing businesses with an unrivalled waterfront environment, establishing Marina Port Valencia as a leading national and international destination built on the principles of sustainability."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/348287/image/large-0f4e8368c10bd6b34945367d123348e5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/348287">

Marina Port Valencia completes Marina City development

Marina Port Valencia has announced that the inner marina, Marina City, is now complete as part of their phased transformation.

Marina Port Valencia completes inner marina for yachts up to 130m

Italian studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8392" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SY design (Company)">SY Design</a> has unveiled Kairos, a 52-metre motor yacht concept centred around a stronger connection between the guests and the surrounding sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397334/image/large-8796d9063db33dbbfbb5f54882d17b18.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397334">Designed to remain under the 500 GT threshold, Kairos is conceived to be built with a lightweight aluminium structure, Kairos aims to make the outdoors the heart of life onboard. The designer has noted that the concept carefully combines open, flowing spaces with floor-to-ceiling glazing and wide hull openings. Moreover, the layout is intended to draw in natural light to flood her interiors, frame breathtaking sea views, and create a seamless access to the water. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397336/image/large-42daf1825f66f137b146990641679193.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397336">Outside, Kairos is characterised by slender proportions and a modern profile that flows effortlessly from the bow to the stern.Her stern serves as one of the focal points of the project. A magnificent pool set at sea level becomes the part of the beach club area, crafted to deepen the connection between the guests and the ocean and expand the sense of openness across her decks. Reflecting the project's philosophy, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8392" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SY design (Company)">SY Design</a> explained that "the objective was not to maximise gross tonnage, but to maximise the owner's experience of the sea."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397335/image/large-e57a868a18e96191861bfc535940ba8c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397335">Wide lateral openings in the hull further extend the views, and invites abundant natural light to dance across the aft, resulting in a bright and open area. Above, her main deck cockpit has been envisioned as a terrace overlooking the sea. In this space, two opposing L-shaped sofas are arranged for mingling and casual lounging, &nbsp;while glass bulwarks preserve uninterrupted views of the horizon.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397337/image/large-8562659c5dd2fd32334132b65c354912.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397337">Ascending further, the yacht’s expansive 105-square-metre fly deck serves as a defining outdoor living area, offering space for socialising, entertaining and open-air dining. Forward, her deck features a flexible layout, allowing owners to tailor the space based on their preferences. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397333/image/large-f17ca1e6f871b464c45ae86a2169b934.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397333">With a beam of nine-metres, accommodation onboard Kairos is arranged for up to 12 guests across six staterooms. The owner's suite is situated forward on the main deck, benefitting from expansive windows and stunning ocean vistas. The five guest staterooms are located on the lower deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397338/image/large-05b708fcf1585fa034d052d3d23270de.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397338">Further features include a dedicated bow garage for jet skis and a rescue tender, while a separate aft garage with side access stores the yacht's primary tender without impacting guest spaces.In addition, Kairos features a dedicated bow garage, discreetly housing jet skis and a rescue tender. Meanwhile, a separate aft garage with side access houses the yacht’s primary tender, stowed away to leave guest areas undisturbed. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397332/image/large-c9d3caeb265320db2d2d23a3105877a1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397332">

SY Design unveils 52m yacht concept Kairos

SY Design has unveiled Kairos, a 52-metre motor yacht concept centred around the owner’s experience of the sea.

 SY Design unveils 52m yacht concept Kairos with sea-level pool

The United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida has dismissed the entire complaint brought by Export Yacht Sales (Brill Maritime), which alleged that Boats Group illegally monopolised the US online boat-listing market through YachtWorld, Boat Trader and boats.com.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/355047/image/large-0bd8f332392990f5a08cac6ea37b81d1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/355047">The lawsuit was filed on 14 August 2025, with Brill Maritime alleging that Boats Group controlled approximately 75 percent of the market for listing and marketing recreational boats and used subscription agreements that either bar or discourage brokers and dealers from listing vessels on rival platforms.Read more: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/64073" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="US boat dealers bring antitrust class action against Boats Group (2025-08-21 13:00:00 +0200)">US boat dealers bring antitrust class action against Boats Group</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/355053/image/large-d4b378b0bbe9bf56a1926a2d570b4fd5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/355053">According to Brill Maritime, competing platforms had been unable to achieve the scale or inventory to grow their services effectively, leaving brokers and dealers with limited options.The court found that Brill Maritime had plausibly alleged that the relevant market could be defined as an online boat listing and marketing service in the United States and that Boat Group may possess monopoly power in that market.&nbsp;Brill Maritime also alleged that Boat’s Group claimed 75 percent of the global share, reasonably supporting an inference that it has a dominant position in the US market. As a result of this, the judge did not dismiss the case because Boats Group lacks market power.However, the judge said that Brill Maritime had failed to show that Boats Group engaged in illegal anticompetitive conduct and under US antitrust law, being a monopoly is not illegal by itself.The court repeatedly emphasised that monopoly power is legal, but using that power through anticompetitive behaviour to exclude rivals is illegal.&nbsp;The judge found that Brill Maritime’s three main allegations were insufficient including that Boats Group became dominant by acquiring competitors such as YachtWorld.com, boats.com and YachtCloser.com.The judge said that acquiring competitors is not necessarily illegal and that Brill Maritime had not explained how these acquisitions had harmed competition. The complaint had described the acquisitions as “strategic” suggesting it was more of a successful business move than illegal conduct. The judge explained that Brill Maritime had shown that Boats Group bought competitors, but not that these acquisitions were unlawful. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/355039/image/large-513a0ee840e10e5371f647093bba58d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/355039">Brill Maritime also claimed that Boats Group's subscription agreements stoped brokers from listing boats elsewhere. The judge examined the contract language and concluded that the provision merely prevented brokers from implying that a YachtWorld or Boats Group listing originated somewhere else. He therefore concluded that you can advertise on YachtWorld and on other sites and the contract simply prevented you from pretending a Boats Group listing came from another platform, meaning the clause is not an exclusive dealing arrangement.Finally, Brill Maritime argued that Boats Group had dramatically increased its prices. The judge responded that high prices alone are not an antitrust violation. The court cited multiple precedents saying a legal monopolist is generally allowed to charge whatever prices it wants. To prove monopolisation, Brill Maritime needed to show that the higher prices resulted from illegal exclusionary conduct.In conclusion, the judge accepted that Boats Group may hold monopoly power in the US online boat-listing market, but ruled that the plaintiffs failed to show that Boats Group acquired or maintained that position through illegal anticompetitive conduct.United States District Judge, Roy K. Altman dismissed the complaint without prejudice, meaning the plaintiff is able to resubmit an amended complaint, with a deadline of 30 June 2026.&nbsp;The lawsuit also contained claims under Florida law, with the federal court declining to hear the state claims as the federal antitrust claims were dismissed. These were also dismissed without prejudice, allowing for them to also be refiled.&nbsp;SuperYacht Times will continue to follow this story and will provide updates where necessary.

US court dismisses antitrust lawsuit against Boats Group

The US District Court for the Southern District of Florida has dismissed the antitrust lawsuit brought by Export Yacht Sales against Boats Group.

The 24.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Yachts (Company)">Princess</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16575" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="N2H224.6m (80'9&quot;)Princess Yachts2022">N2H2</a> has been sold, with Joe Hill of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Brokerage International (Company)">Princess Brokerage International</a> representing the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377303/image/large-e9f5ee62744476943f9773dd48e429fb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377303">Delivered in 2022, the yacht features interiors penned in-house by her British builder. Meanwhile, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2740" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Olesinski Ltd. (Company)">Olesinski</a> took charge of her naval architecture and exterior design.At a volume of 78 GT, she can sleep up to eight guests across four well-appointed staterooms. Guests can enjoy communal areas such as the foredeck and aft deck fitted with sunpads and the flybridge with shade.Propulsion-wise, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16575" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="N2H224.6m (80'9&quot;)Princess Yachts2022">N2H2</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines, giving her top speed of 39 knots.At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16575" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="N2H224.6m (80'9&quot;)Princess Yachts2022">N2H2</a> had a last known asking price of £3,175,000.00.Courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Brokerage International (Company)">Princess Brokerage International</a>.

Princess yacht N2H2 sold

Princess yacht, N2H2 sold, Princess yacht N2H2, Princess yacht sold, N2H2 sold.

25m Princess motor yacht N2H2 sold

The 29.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7645" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Yaz29.7m (97'5&quot;)Custom Line2010">Lady Yaz</a> has been sold. Ferhat Kanbur of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7089" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Data Marin (Company)">Data Marin</a> introduced the buyer, while Ilker Bicaco of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5001" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Talia Marine (Company)">Talia Marine</a> represented the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392305/image/large-86c88e62c5d466ff1f840f9818dce38b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392305" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Delivered in 2010, the yacht features naval architecture penned in-house by her builder. Meanwhile, her interior and exterior designs were crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuccon International Project (Company)">Zuccon International Design</a>.Inside, her design is distinguished by light coloured woods that give the yacht a contemporary feel. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7645" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Yaz29.7m (97'5&quot;)Custom Line2010">Lady Yaz</a> can accommodate up to ten guests across four well-appointed staterooms at a volume of 177 GT. Moreover, a highlight of the yacht is a relaxation area on her flybridge, where guests can enjoy panoramic views.&nbsp;In terms of propulsion system, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7645" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Yaz29.7m (97'5&quot;)Custom Line2010">Lady Yaz</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, giving her a cruising speed of 24 knots and a top speed of 27 knots.At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7645" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Yaz29.7m (97'5&quot;)Custom Line2010">Lady Yaz</a> had a last known asking price of €2,990,000.Photo courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5001" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Talia Marine (Company)">Talia Marine</a>.

Custom Line yacht Lady Yaz sold

The 29.7-metre Custom Line motor yacht Lady Yaz has been sold.

30m Custom Line motor yacht Lady Yaz sold

The 35.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/602" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere Valdettaro S.r.l. (Company)">Cantiere Valdettaro</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unplugged35.4m (116'2&quot;)Cantiere Valdettaro S.r.l.1992">Unplugged</a> has been sold with Yannis Stratis of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Broker House (Company)">Yacht Broker House</a>. The sale was concluded directly with a private buyer, with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6235" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Broker House (Company)">Yacht Broker House</a> acting as both owner and central agent in the transaction.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/98550/image/large-7470442e827fa639586e6fb0099778c8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/98550">The sale was completed in spring 2026 at Yacht Broker House's home base in Corfu, Greece. Since changing hands, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unplugged35.4m (116'2&quot;)Cantiere Valdettaro S.r.l.1992">Unplugged</a> has departed Greece and is now cruising European waters under her new ownership.&nbsp;Delivered in 1992 by Italian shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/602" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere Valdettaro S.r.l. (Company)">Cantiere Valdettaro</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unplugged35.4m (116'2&quot;)Cantiere Valdettaro S.r.l.1992">Unplugged</a> most recently underwent a refit in France in 2024. She features exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/357" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laurent Giles Superyacht Architects (Company)">Laurent Giles Superyacht Architects</a>, while her interiors were penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/618" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Garroni (Company)">Studio Garroni</a>.Constructed with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unplugged35.4m (116'2&quot;)Cantiere Valdettaro S.r.l.1992">Unplugged</a> has a beam of 7.95-metres and an interior volume of 171 GT. Accommodation onboard is arranged for up to 10 guests across a five stateroom configuration, while dedicated quarters house up to a crew of six, including her captain.In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unplugged35.4m (116'2&quot;)Cantiere Valdettaro S.r.l.1992">Unplugged</a> is powered by a single <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engine that delivers a cruising speed of 9.7 knots and a top speed of 12 knots.&nbsp;At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unplugged35.4m (116'2&quot;)Cantiere Valdettaro S.r.l.1992">Unplugged</a> had a last known asking price of €900,000.

35m Cantiere Valdettaro sailing yacht Unplugged sold

  The 35.4-metre Cantiere Valdettaro sailing yacht Unplugged has been sold with Yacht Broker House

The 57-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/106" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Trinity Yachts (Company)">Trinity</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/364" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Elis Et Mar57.0m (187'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts2012">Elis Et Mar</a> is on the market, with Rob Newton of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/directories/yachts/for-sale" target="_blank">yacht for sale</a> benefitted from a 2025 refit that refreshed her interiors and modernised her systems.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397161/image/large-157dd31b806639942ec6e7d2aeb4801c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397161">With a deck design built around guest flow, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/364" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Elis Et Mar57.0m (187'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts2012">Elis Et Mar</a> features naval architecture and exterior design penned in-house by her American builder. Meanwhile, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/111" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Evan K Marshall (Company)">Evan K Marshall</a> took charge of her interior design which is distinguished by Italian marbles, Lalique glass, silk carpets and rich wood in birch, vavona, and bur.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397220/image/large-a05b27ee4abd4103f48fae88e6afdaf3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397220"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397195/image/large-5eb0377176736d577315088431b690c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397195">At a volume of 782 GT, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/elis-et-mar" target="_blank">yacht Elis Et Mar for sale</a> can accommodate up to 12 guests across six well-appointed staterooms. Her full-beam master suite is found on the main deck. This area can be accessed via a private office and is fitted with a king-size bed, walk-in wardrobe, and his-and-hers bathrooms with a soaking tub, separate rain shower, and mirror TVs. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397199/image/large-86d7a9b383706d0176d50ebc3a5183fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397199"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397208/image/large-d05e1e5f38e5dc5c8b79aa56962db52a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397208">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/directories/yachts/for-sale/of-type=motor" target="_blank">motor yacht for sale’s</a> VIP suite located on the bridge deck also showcases a king-size bed, elevated views, and a spacious ensuite. Four guest suites on the lower deck, all with fixed king beds and ensuite bathrooms, complete the accommodation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397214/image/large-27ec017e7e73699f2a44df284651fc7c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397214">Moving outside, guests aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/364" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Elis Et Mar57.0m (187'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts2012">Elis Et Mar</a> are spoilt for choice between adventure and relaxation. Her sundeck plays host to a large Jacuzzi, generous sunpads, a full bar, and an outdoor entertainment system. For those looking to keep active, a fully enclosed, air-conditioned gym is also on offer, equipped with a Pilates Reformer, treadmill, free weights, and audio-visual facilities. A portable ice bath is also available upon request.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397235/image/large-cd87a31b555950b9bd569392e9918873.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397235"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/364" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Elis Et Mar57.0m (187'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts2012">Elis Et Mar’s</a> bridge deck sky lounge provides a relaxed indoor retreat, complete with plush seating, a full-service bar, and alfresco dining for up to 12 guests aft. Guests may choose between a formal indoor dining space or an aft dining area with optional climate control, offering flexibility to suit any occasion, on the main deck aft.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397231/image/large-98b1ee45ae88293202adcd95833904d2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397231">Moreover, an impressive array of water toys ensures no shortage of thrills for the more adventurous. On the water, guests can make use of four <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3030" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cayago AG / Seabob (Company)">Seabobs</a>, two Lift E-Foils, an Awake Ravic electric surfboard, three Jet Skis, a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5777" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yamaha (Company)">Yamaha</a> Superjet, inflatable towables, and full snorkelling and fishing gear, alongside two foldable e-bikes for exploration ashore. The entire guest experience is overseen by a professional crew of 13.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397191/image/large-7c46a1b67dc6f3193229d237bca28a4f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397191">In terms of propulsion system, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/directories/yachts/for-sale/built-by=trinity-yachts" target="_blank">Trinity yacht for sale</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines, giving her a cruising speed of 14 knots and a top speed of 20 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397192/image/large-e9dc6c5d43d791366dd8c886a1767f06.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397192">

Trinity yacht Elis Et Mar for sale

The 57-metre Trinity motor yacht Elis Et Mar is on the market, with Rob Newton of IYC.