There is a lot of fudging when it comes to defining what the terms series, semi- and full-custom actually mean in the superyacht world. Increasing customer demand for customisation has no doubt helped to blur the boundaries, but the lack of clarity can sometimes be misleading. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen Yachts</a> likes to keep the record straight, however. To aid transparency and shed light on the differences, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/53741" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show exclusive: The three pillars of Heesen’s success with CEO Arthur Brouwer (2021-09-22 09:30:00 +0200)">CEO Arthur Brouwer</a> defines the various categories according to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> business model.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206827/image/large-21701dab204d372581b40392d86a1cac.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206827">I wouldn’t say building series yachts is our bread and butter at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, but it certainly makes up the lion’s share of our production. These are the yachts that we design, start building and finance ourselves, which are then sold at a later point in time. In other words, these projects are started on speculation.The advantage of building on spec is that owners don’t have to wait for so long for delivery. It also means that we can guarantee availability to the market in the future. Yacht building has changed insofar as you used to be able to plan a year or two in advance – now you have to look two or three years ahead.It is important to point out that although series yachts are broadly similar and based on the same hull form, no two yachts are exactly alike. The interiors are always bespoke, but depending on when they come into the project owners can personalise other aspects of the design. At the beginning we can do a lot, even change the superstructure and engine package. But once we start cutting metal limitations start to appear and to accommodate more sweeping changes close to launch we may have to revise the build schedule, which is something we try to avoid. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/92787/image/large-25fbaa062214a0955512eecbe552c80e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/92787">Erica (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6107" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Toute Sweet49.8m (163'5&quot;)Heesen Yachts2019">Toute Sweet</a>), for example, was started on spec as the third hull in our 50-metre aluminium series. Negotiations with the original owner began just before the hull and superstructure were joined. He asked for larger diesel engines instead of a hybrid package and wanted to change the interior layout, as well as parts of the superstructure. These were major modifications, but we were able to accommodate them without impacting the rest of our production.Another point to remember is that we build only 6-12 units in each series and as in the automotive world, we introduce a life-cycle change after every fourth or sixth hull. This allows us to adapt the product to stay close to the market and technological developments, but also avoid an over-supply of the same yachts down the line when they enter the pre-owned market.We use the term semi-custom to describe projects that are based on a proven hull form, but where the superstructure is restyled to suit individual customer choice. The yachts feel and look totally different, but we already know what their performance will be because they are based on a common engineering platform. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/180693/image/large-369d03d050e5961dec7f6bcd99e51831.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/180693">This is something that car coach builders used to do – you would buy a chassis that would be used as the starting point. Examples of semi-custom Heesen yachts are 56-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6053" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galvas56.0m (183'9&quot;)Heesen Yachts2019">Galvas</a> with superstructure styling by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2 Yacht Design</a>, which was a development of our 55-metre FDHF steel platform, and 51-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5934" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Irisha51.0m (167'4&quot;)Heesen Yachts2018">Irisha</a> with exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/168" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Harrison Eidsgaard (Company)">Harrison Eidsgaard</a>that was based on our popular 5000 aluminium class.Then there are the full-custom yachts like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/54128" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Cosmos undergoes technical launch from Heesen's facilities in Oss (2021-11-22 19:45:00 +0100)">Project Cosmos</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/53712" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Construction well underway on 60m Heesen superyacht Project SkyFall (2021-09-17 11:45:00 +0200)">Project Skyfall</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5603" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica Super Nova70.07m (229'11&quot;)Heesen Yachts2016">Galactica Super Nova</a>. Most of the time, the customer comes in and the yacht is designed from scratch, although we usually have something in the drawer that we can work on, as in the case of Project Sparta that is based on the Avanti design concept by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch Design</a>. These projects tend to take at least six months longer to complete because we have to do a lot of extra engineering.Some owners stipulate in the contract that a one-off design cannot be reproduced; others are more easygoing. It really depends on our relationship with the customer.&nbsp;At <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, we have the in-house engineering capacity for one full-custom project per year. Any more than that and we have to start in-sourcing some engineering know-how. Alongside we can handle one semi-custom project and two or three series yachts. We can adapt our workflow, but the stretch starts when we have two semi-custom projects that start close together, for example, because we have to scramble all our resources at the pre-production stage. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/203441/image/large-97b1239218ba86042e1e919ae7361168.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/203441">In the past, we’ve had to turn down a couple of full-custom projects because we just couldn’t take on the extra work they require. You also have to remember that we are limited by the length, beam, height and draft of what we can produce because to reach the sea from the Heesen shipyard in Oss the yachts have to move through the Dutch canal system.Generally speaking, one of the biggest challenges is managing client expectations for the series or semi-custom projects.For instance, if an owner arrives late in the build cycle and wants all kinds of changes, we have to gently explain what we can and cannot do. It might also simply be too costly. We have to be very careful that these instances don’t start a snowball effect in our production that takes up too many resources.&nbsp;If there is a significant delay in the build cycle of one project, it can affect others, which can be very risky for the shipyard. We have managed significant changes without issues, but there have been other cases where we felt we couldn’t accommodate all the changes requested and had to let the customer go. More commonly, an owner will decide to take the next available yacht and start the customisation process earlier, but in that case they have to be willing to wait a bit longer.&nbsp;Needless to say, at Heesen we always tries to cater to client requests and create the capacity, but not if it puts the rest of our production at risk.&nbsp;

Interview with Heesen CEO on custom yachts

56m Galvas yacht cruising the North Sea 

original

small

medium

large

extra_large

Galactica Super Nova yacht cruising 

Arthur Brouwer Heesen CEO 

Erica yacht by Heesen Yachts

CEO Arthur Brouwer interviewed on the custom yacht conundrum at Heesen.

The custom conundrum with Heesen CEO Arthur Brouwer 

Launched in 1923 under the name Wildfire, the 32-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Herreshoff (Company)">Herreshoff</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a> is steeped in a century's worth of history. Celebrating 100 years on the water this year, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a> has sailed the world and holds many secrets and stories beneath her decks.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271313/image/large-7264148a82ffefca5a6f7b315df86b4e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271313">The Herreshoff family heritage spans back over 150 years when blind boat builder John Brown Herreshoff went into partnership with his younger brother, Nathanael Greene Herreshoff, to start the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Herreshoff (Company)">Herreshoff Manufacturing Company</a>.John dedicated his life to yacht carpentry in a workshop in the small town of Bristol, Rhode Island. With the help of their father, Charles Frederick, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Herreshoff (Company)">Herreshoff Manufacturing Co</a>. was created and added to the history of naval construction.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271315/image/large-2a764787faf7743f4dbb99080dab7a95.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271315">The company grew in size over the years, and alongside his brothers Nathanael and James Herreshoff, the family brought many boats to life, including the legendary 1903 schooner <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ingomar53.88m (176'9&quot;)GraafShip">Ingomar</a>. John passed away in 1915, and Nathanael Herreshoff took the helm, which led to the creation of the steel schooner Wildfire.Known as Project 891, Wildfire was constructed in 1922 and launched in 1923. Wildfire was commissioned by Charles Hardy, commodore of the New York Yacht Club for a cost of $76,000, which is around $1,348,280 in today’s valuation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271314/image/large-abf0aab29ca7e0c9a8efc56d89a48556.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271314">Wildfire was launched with a 20.5-feet beam, an almost 4-metre draft, and an overall length of 95 feet (29-metres). The impressive schooner won regattas and tournaments, including the Schooner Cup in 1924.In 1949, Wildfire entered the Brazilian waters after being purchased by Jorge Bhering de Matos in the United States. She was then sold to Dircea Fortouta, an industrial entrepreneur, who christened her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a>– meaning a daring, bold woman who is ready for any challenge.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271318/image/large-5f0e71067010a50452c710779dfd7954.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271318"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a> spent 45 years in Brazil, in the Guanabara Bay located in Southeast Brazil in the state of Rio de Janeiro were she welcomed royalty such as the now King Charles III of the United Kingdom, and celebrities such as Elvis Presley, Brazilian music artist Billy Blanco, actress Rita Hayworth and Former United States Secretary of State Henry Kissinger.&nbsp;Over the years, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a> underwent renovations which affected her overall appearance and design, but thankfully not her charm. After the death of her owner, the yacht was taken to the city of Santos, Brazil to her new owner Auro Mourandrade.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271316/image/large-517766f904e987198966efa6270603ee.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271316">In the 1990s, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1180" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MCP Yachts (Company)">MCP Yachts</a> owned by naval engineer Manoel Chaves, were enlisted to begin her restoration. The 1922 schooner received a new teak deck and interior renovations and in 1999 she was sold to a group of Asian businessmen, where she returned to Rio de Janeiro.However, due to a lack of maintenance care, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a> almost sank in Guanabara Bay and was neglected for almost two years, leading to holes and rust forming on her steel hull and superstructure. But in 2002, Auro Mourandrade and Gilberto Miranda bought Atrevida as scrap metal and enlisted Manoel Chaves to take care of her restoration. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271317/image/large-6badd5ce3106318f744a3a73c6877ad0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271317">The holes she had gained over the years were first closed before she was towed from Rio de Janeiro to Santos by a fishing boat for the start of her repairs. The shipyard she was shipped to specialised in aluminium trawlers and therefore could not use the same installations for the work in carbon steel.As a result of this, a yard was reserved at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1180" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MCP Yachts (Company)">MCP Yachts</a> for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a> and the shipyard was in touch with the Herreshoff Museum in Bristol to find the original construction plans for Wildfire. In March 2004, a skilled team of professionals embarked on her restoration work by installing modern equipment, while maintaining <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a>’s character.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271319/image/large-fc60e6933c53a85be1b3c04b206e9af8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271319">During her extensive 14 month restoration, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a> gained the most up-to-date amenities, such as air conditioning, onboard computers and electronics and a new navigation system, as well as wireless bow and stern thrusters and a remote controlled sail hoisting system. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271321/image/large-da87cbbec66f07f4a4f181b2b2b7204f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271321">In tradition with the era in which she was built, her chain shock absorbers, balustrade stays, rigging system and other stainless steel items were built and engraved with her name, Atrevida. The wooden bowsprit was rebuilt in mahogany to the original Nathanael Herreshoff design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271320/image/large-eb4eb9acd6a67c6551d179b9c05c24b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271320">Her carbon steel davits had also been damaged over the years and were replaced with a new stainless steel set with handles and winches similar to her original design. Her structural work included the closing of the deck with overlapping steel plates placed and riveted as they would have been when she was originally built.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271322/image/large-69bd93591d2b1da7d9bd618ff0342ced.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271322">The main deck houses and deck hatches of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a> were rebuilt with mahogany wood that had been reclaimed from old demolished houses, as the cutting down of this wood is now forbidden. The yard also created a fibreglass auxiliary boat in the same dimensions as her original wood counterpart, with identical rudders, helm, controls and upholstery.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270890/image/large-4d667d1fc2e366a14366fea44910e662.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270890">Everything else onboard was repaired and rebuilt as close to her original design as possible, and her name was engraved across doors, tables and other items onboard. The historical importance of the project can be seen in the main living areas, with bevelled glass and curtains, which are the same style as she would have had when she was first built.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270889/image/large-3b4dc602a33be0f3cd77229e3305e86a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270889">Her interior has been finished with traditionally styled beams, crystal styled cabinets and classic upholstered seating, following her reclaimed designs. Her rigging has also been equipped with modern day technologies such as telephone and internet connections to keep guests onboard entertained and up-to-date. This was also placed high up her masts, so as not to spoil her original design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270887/image/large-10d0a17be46ba487800a1fbd0f5a031e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270887">In August 2005, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a> once again entered the water to continue the Herreshoff brothers legacy. She was finally reborn and restored to her original glory where she hopes to continue welcoming a plethora of guests onboard for years to come.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270884/image/large-17859f102cbc072aa8017eb0430c4ecd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270884"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2065" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atrevida32.0m (104'12&quot;)Herreshoff1923">Atrevida</a> now continues to travel in international waters, including the Caribbean and South America, under the loving hands of Alexandre and Daniella Ferrari at the helm of Captain Atila Bohm. Her story is a testament to what passion and respect for naval traditions can achieve when preserving a century worth of stories, lives and history.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270892/image/large-d8bdad687f461dbd9e179e6d62277422.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270892">

The 100 year history of the 32m Herreshoff yacht Atrevida

Launched in 1923 under the name Wildfire, the 32m Herreshoff sailing yacht Atrevida is celebrating 100 years on the water this year.

Celebrating 100 years of history onboard the 32m sailing yacht Atrevida

From concept to completion, the new 4,300-tonne shiplift at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 La Ciotat (Company)">MB92 La Ciotat</a> was four years in the making at a cost of at least €70 million. A truly international venture, the project brought together contractors from half a dozen countries to resolve the many logistical, engineering and environmental challenges. We take a closer look at how it was done.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261587/image/large-039002e970e80a7ca246214bed1d7e09.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261587">It is difficult to appreciate the sheer scale of the new shiplift in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 La Ciotat (Company)">La Ciotat</a> unless you’re standing on top of it. The platform itself is 100 metres long, 20 metres wide, 2.7 metres deep and weighs 1,100 tonnes. It is now open for business, but the total redeveloped area covers 40,000 square metres and construction work continues on the peripheral infrastructures.The design and construction of a shiplift is composed of four principal activities: civil works, lift and transfer systems, platform fabrication, and installation followed by commissioning. The most cost-effective approach is for the shipyard to act as the general contractor and issue separate contracts for each of the activities. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261585/image/large-76295cb817ddfe17c4cc27eb302e3055.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261585"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 La Ciotat (Company)">MB92 Group</a> divided the cost of the shiplift with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 La Ciotat (Company)">La Ciotat Shipyards</a>, the public company that manages the port area, but has spent an additional €13 million on adjacent facilities. The total stake represents a formidable asset for the refit shipyard, which can now host up to six more 100-metre plus superyacht on the hard, adding to an infrastructure that already includes a 2,000-tonne yacht lift, 600-tonne crane, 300-travel lift and 200-metre dry dock.&nbsp;Installing a shiplift in La Ciotat had been envisaged by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 La Ciotat (Company)">MB92</a> ever since it acquired a majority stake in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5474" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CompositeWorks (Company)">CompositeWorks</a> in 2017. Work got under way the following year with preliminary simulations in compliance with French regulations and safety codes to determine the optimal size of the shiplift based on the land area available.“Every increase in lifting capacity is accompanied by an exponential increase in cost, so the final 4,300-tonne capacity represents the best balance between cost, commercial opportunities and the space we had to work with,” says Joe Degabriele, Senior Business Development Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 La Ciotat (Company)">MB92 La Ciotat</a> tasked with commercialising the shiplift.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261582/image/large-57990f9cf95d2e2aaa6476f37e7ec399.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261582">Bardex Corporation, a US-based specialist in heavy load handling and positioning equipment, was contracted to oversee the design of the shiplift and transfer systems. In order to better understand the local business culture and practices, Bardex chose to partner with Matière SAS, a French engineering and construction company.“The design process starts by understanding the client’s needs and objectives for the facility, says Robert Taylor, senior structural engineer at Bardex. “We also investigate the site setting, access to and from the facility, the yard arrangement and the geological conditions. All of these inform us about the types of foundation system, yacht transfer arrangement and implementation plan that is most appropriate for the project.”Weight-liftingShiplifts are all about are speed and efficiency. In La Ciotat the entire process of lifting and positioning a yacht on the hard takes less than three hours, whereas the same procedure in a traditional graving dock requires the best part of a day. A shiplift can serve multiple parking places, but a dry dock usually hosts just one vessel at a time.&nbsp;The shiplift relies on very different technology from classic winches and cables. The Chain Jack Lift system is widely used in military shipyards for lifting warships and nuclear submarines. Powered by hydraulic rams, a chain jack hoists by engaging and pulling in a short length of chain, engaging a stop pin, retracting and repeating the process. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261584/image/large-53a9dbfa280b0d59027c0314124af81d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261584">The system offers more precise movement of the platform than wire ropes or cables, which are prone to stretching (Lloyd’s requires 20 per cent of wire ropes to be removed and destructively tested each year and all wire ropes to be replaced every 5-10 years). La Ciotat has 20 chain jack units, 10 on each side of the pit, and each has two closed-loop chains for 100 percent redundancy.The lifting procedure is complex because it involves coordinating the motion of 20 devices connected to the same platform. The system moves one pitch, or two links of chain, each cycle for all 40 chains (factory tests show that the movement of the chain jacks can be coordinated to within one millimetre of each other). The entire lift system resets every cycle, which prevents the accumulation of differential elevation. To ensure all the units are working in perfect synchronisation, remote sensors relay the parameters in real-time to the central command system.“Hydraulic cylinders are ideally suited to shiplift operations because their movement is consistently precise,” says Taylor. “Bardex has further improved the synchronisation by equipping the lift stations and control system with hydraulic feedback motion control. This technology is widely used in heavy industrial robotic automation applications that require high precision motion control, such as special-purpose arc welding robots.”To guarantee an uninterrupted supply of electricity, the lifting system has its own dedicated substation with transformers supplied by the French division of the German company Schneider Electric. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 La Ciotat (Company)">MB92</a> invested in a further three substations for the supply of reliable shore power to the yachts and for refit work.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261583/image/large-4166e0e83d90ea707fb10360c701a083.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261583">Running on railsBuilt by Metallic Bridges Belgium (MBB), the actual platform had to be delivered by special transport. When a yacht enters the lifting pit and the chain jacks are activated, it comes to rest on a modular cradle that can be adjusted to suit the size of the vessel (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 La Ciotat (Company)">MB92</a> ordered four such cradles from Schwartz Hautmont in Spain). As in a graving dock, divers assess that the ‘mating’ between hull and cradle is a snug and secure fit.&nbsp;Once the platform has been locked at ground level, the next phase is to transfer the yacht sideways off the platform and then longitudinally to a hard-standing space. Four-wheel bogies or trolleys constructed by Bardex Industries in South Korea are aligned under the cradle. The bogies, which have a passive hydraulic suspension system to raise the yacht and its cradle over the top of the chain jack units, run along 6.5km of intersecting rails built by Bemo Rails in The Netherlands and can change direction by lifting themselves off the tracks and turning their wheels 90 degrees. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261597/image/large-cd3dfe47b75870da76a82b08717ad440.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261597">The two axes of motion meant the rails and intersections had to be installed to a tolerance of +/- 5mm to ensure smooth transfers. Maintaining stability is obviously essential throughout the operation, especially when moving the yacht off the platform.“Transferring yachts laterally off the platform required careful coordination of the civil works, structural system and lift station elevations to ensure adequate clearance for the yacht and static supports to pass over the lift stations,” says Taylor. “This type of transfer operation also imposes unbalanced loads on the structural systems. Detailed engineering analysis and the use of hydraulically actuated pin supports were required to ensure the structure remains stable under this loading condition.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261598/image/large-46859a2c27c1aaa4e641dcc7c146976b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261598">There are five hard-standing places to the side of the platform and one in front of it (a 6th is a common area that can be used for short-term projects such as pre-purchase inspections). Once in position, the cradle is lowered to the ground, the bogies removed and the yacht hooked up to the shore power, fresh water and waste management systems. Anchoring points in the concrete are used for bracing scaffolding and tenting when the yachts need to covered. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261599/image/large-5e0187dde33c13a6e4b502b4da2f46b1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261599">At the time of writing, the shiplift and transfer systems were approaching completion before final testing and certification by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/554" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lloyds Ships (Company)">Lloyds Register</a> (shiplifts come under Lloyds’ Code for Lifting Appliances in a Marine Environment, excluding the civil engineering works). Despite the many technical and logistical challenges, the shiplift was on schedule for its official inauguration in September.&nbsp;“The most difficult thing has been organising all the different companies around the world and up to 200 personnel working on site each day, especially during the Covid pandemic,” says Mathieu Bauden, the man responsible for coordinating the works as Facilities &amp; Storage Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 La Ciotat (Company)">MB92 La Ciotat</a>. “But it’s a great source of satisfaction that when we signed this project four years ago, we decided to open the platform on 15 September 2022. And that is still the opening date.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261591/image/large-603e1e48173db47dc861262e8eaf1093.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261591">SHIPLIFT TRIVIA• The Syncrolift System was invented by Raymond Pearlson, who was later awarded the Sperry Award for his invention. The first Synchrolift in 1957 had a lifting capacity of 100 tons.&nbsp;• In 1967 Hydranautics, now Bardex Corporation, designed, patented, manufactured and delivered the first shiplift using chains instead of wire rope.&nbsp;• The Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze in Central China has a shiplift for transferring vessels up to 3,000 tonnes across a vertical distance of 113 metres. The ship chamber has a pool of water 120 metres long by 18 metres wide and 3.5 metres deep.&nbsp;• The world’s largest shiplift dedicated exclusively to yachts is the 4,800-tonne shiplift at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/97" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 Barcelona (Company)">MB92 Barcelona</a>. Commissioned in 2019, it was designed and supplied by Pearlson Shiplift Corporation.This article was originally published in September 2022 of Issue 1 of the How to Build It magazine. <a href="https://superyachttimes.com/api/download/how-to-build-it-issue-1" target="_blank">You can download the entire magazine for free here</a>.

At the shipyard with MB92 La Ciotat

Justin Ratcliffe went behind the scenes for the unveiling of the new shiplift at MB92 La Ciotat.

How to build a shiplift with MB92 La Ciotat

superyachts featured in films

SuperYachtTimes takes a closer look at the superyachts that have gifted our screens with an injection of added opulence.

Superyachts on film

The American boating giant <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a> has dominated the news over the past two years, with record breaking acquisitions and a major expansion into the superyacht sphere. Last year the company announced the acquisition of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY Marinas</a> and its global presence is becoming more solidified every quarter. We sat down with Chief Revenue Officer Chuck Cashman to find out more about the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a> mentality and to get an insight into the latest expansions.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265729/image/large-075b6f10300ff29203f8cee2ee5a74a9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265729">So why don't we start off with how&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a>&nbsp;fared in 2022 in comparison with 2021 and an overview of your expectations for 2023:We had a record fiscal year in 2021 and we beat that in fiscal year 2022, which was outstanding. We did that both from an acquisition standpoint –we grew the business a lot – but also from an increase in Same-Store Sales.&nbsp;One thing that is definitely clear is that 2021 came with an unprecedented high in terms of passion for boating. Certainly there were other challenges; inventory limitations, supply chain issues and, of course, lockdowns; but 2021/2022 brought a tonne of new people into boating. In 2022 we also saw an increase of first time buyers buying boats over 30 metres: numbers I haven’t seen in the 30 years I've been in this industry.&nbsp;As 2022 came to a close the industry began to see a slowdown, but it is clear even from these first weeks of 2023 that the passion for boating remains, despite the headwinds of interest rates rising and stock market instability. So we’re expecting another good year at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a>, across the board. Our main focus will be on improving &nbsp;our marketplace, which becomes that much more important in economically challenging times. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265732/image/large-ca20ccc1813073a1b2aa9dfbcd755ab5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265732">What drove&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a>&nbsp;to acquire two superyacht brokerage houses and did the company ever consider consolidation?We had been specifically seeking out the acquisition of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> for some time before we finalised the agreement in 2019. Expansion into the superyacht sector was a natural move for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a> and we liked the company, the management and where they were based. Fraser was a very natural fit for us so we were very happy when it came to fruition.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>, on the other hand, actually approached us – and not long after the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> acquisition was announced. Even though we hadn't been looking for another brokerage house, we met with the leadership team and they left a very good impression. It's important to note that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a> has a very thorough and strategic acquisition programme, so we carefully analysed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">N&amp;J</a> before we made any proposals and saw both good results, and a very solid team.Once the decision to acquire both <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> was made, the obvious thing was to combine the two houses and create what would have been the biggest brokerage in the world. But after spending time looking under the hood of both companies, digging into their databases, we found that the crossover in clientele between them was only 2 percent. We were so surprised we had the analysts run the numbers again because we were expecting closer to 35-40 percent competitive crossover, but it was clear the two companies operated within entirely different client pools. Because of this the decision to retain them as separate and individual assets was, in the end, very easy, and on top of that we couldn’t see the point in disrupting two healthy businesses purely for the bravado of saying “we’re the biggest”. We don’t want to say it, we want to be the best.&nbsp;We have, however, combined the two backend systems. Bringing them onto the same account programme for example, has reduced expenses and allowed us to leverage the advantages of both houses. Their combined power has given us excellent hiring magnetism and we have attracted some excellent talent to both businesses.&nbsp;As for the future, we may well consolidate down the line, but there is no plan for it right now and I'm confident that the acquisitions were the right decision. Both companies have reported record years since they joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a> and we have been able to provide them with massive scope for expansions and acquisitions under their own umbrellas.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265730/image/large-9f50024dac70c8a6a14a2afb2983061b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265730">In August 2022 you announced&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55716" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax acquires IGY Marinas for $480 million (2022-08-09 14:45:00 +0200)">the acquisition of the marina titan&nbsp;IGY Marinas&nbsp;for $480</a>&nbsp;million. Was that an opportunity you sought out or did they come to you?&nbsp;Our CEO Brett McGill has been interested in moving into the marina sphere for a number of years. Brett has been working hard to change the perception of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a> as only a boat retailer and movement into the superyacht services segment was one part of the strategy to do that, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY</a> acquisition another. Where brokerage revenue is cyclical with relatively low profit margins, marinas have a very solid and consistent revenue stream with a good margin. At the end of the day, boats need slips.&nbsp;Our profitability over the last few years has allowed us to expand our horizons and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY</a> is certainly our biggest acquisition to date, and one that we are very excited about. Marina management, aside from the revenue aspect, allows us to offer our customers a full suite of services and to continue to offer them benefits over and over again. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY</a> was a very healthy company, and like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">N&amp;J</a> it already had great people onboard, so when the opportunity arose, &nbsp;we accelerated. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265731/image/large-9384651b02a3c3b8b113c3d33254dc31.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265731"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a>&nbsp;is a very healthy company right now, but you do have competition with businesses such as&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="OneWater Yacht Group (Company)">OneWater&nbsp;</a>on your doorstep. Do you see them as a threat?&nbsp;Of course competition will always be there, and I’ve always believed that it is good to have competitors pushing you to be better. I have a lot of respect for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="OneWater Yacht Group (Company)">OneWater</a> and for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a> and their collaboration is a great move. They are also companies that have always looked after their clients, which is the most important thing. What I don't want to see is second tier companies coming into our sector, creating bad customer experiences that push people away from boat ownership because that is detrimental to the entire industry as a whole.&nbsp;I would also say that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a> has been moving from strength-to-strength for 25 years, we know our client and our industry, and those sectors that we don’t know, we pull the right people in to advise us. People may perceive us as making sudden acquisitions or rash decisions, but we aren’t like that at all; we are careful and conscientious about the expansions we make and that has allowed us to expand steadily into the position we are now in.&nbsp;This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/syt-issue-44-newspaper-published" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issue 44 of SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>. To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

Interview with Chuck Cashman of MarineMax

Francesca Webster sat down with MarineMax CRO Chuck Cashman to discuss the plans and future of the American titan.

home-featured-topleft#0

Empire building: MarineMax CRO Chuck Cashman on the future of the American titan

“My dream is to travel once around the world – whether it’s onboard this yacht or my next, I don’t know. But I’m going to do it,” the owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emerald50.4m (165'4&quot;)Feadship1990">Emerald</a> told SuperYacht Times, beaming. With good reason, too. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265808/image/large-821f7341b46fc048783e7aba64d31ff0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265808">We were sat in the offices at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a> wistfully chatting cruising grounds, star-studded events and his beautifully refitted 50.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> superyacht, which was gently bobbing in the waters lapping the shipyard. “She’s timeless, a real classic,” he said, gazing out the window. “The green was my wife’s idea,” referring to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emerald50.4m (165'4&quot;)Feadship1990">Emerald’s</a> suave, freshly-painted Orion green hull, courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6101" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jotun (Company)">Jotun</a>. “It was my wife who chose everything in fact, and I couldn’t be happier.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/257634/image/large-9366f38055670e91b5ceb8d9c505e234.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/257634">But it’s hard to believe that the 50.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> floating in the dock was the same one he bought nearly two years ago. “I love character, class and strong sturdy builds, so when I started looking for a new yacht I knew I was really looking for a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>.” With this in mind, David Westwood of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>, first steered him to the 44.2-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4366" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Valeria44.2m (145'0&quot;)Feadship1975">Valeria</a>, which is laid up at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a> – as fate would have it. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259593/image/large-0252709e6fde006536f95fd2b29f2983.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259593">“We came here to Urk to see the classic 1975 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> you can see over there,” he said, pointing in the direction of the front gate at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>, towards <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4366" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Valeria44.2m (145'0&quot;)Feadship1975">Valeria</a>. “She’s lovely, really. But the crew quarters are just a little too small for what we were looking for.“The crew has to be well looked after on my boats, they need to feel comfortable. It’s important to us that spacious, well-lit and relaxing areas need to be found in both guest and crew areas. Not only are guests travelling with us, so also are the crew. I want them to feel at home.” With <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4366" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Valeria44.2m (145'0&quot;)Feadship1975">Valeria</a> a no-go, David was back scouring the market for a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> that met expectations. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/196039/image/large-6c1cf1727a767970cde689a72b0858bc.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/196039"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> built 74 superyachts 40-metres or larger before the turn of the millennium, and out of those 74, only 12 are currently on the market. When these yachts are under ownership, they often stay that way. It was in fact Daan Balk, CEO and owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>, who informed the owner about a potential candidate: the 1990-delivered 48.83-metre MQ2, which was lying in Croatia at the time. Balk personally joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW</a> and the owners to inspect the yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265814/image/large-ed3bd1e3447fc1d45e4f7c135b6a2cef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265814"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265754/image/large-ebb517a81c02f593d1b13c100bf0f087.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265754"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265756/image/large-f1cc76efab2089fa67e828788cdc9d7c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265756"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265757/image/large-08fe49bcf5c99fbc1a7a5489e9c90c33.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265757">MQ2’s timeless exterior lines, penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/30" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Voogt Naval Architects (Company)">De Voogt</a>, and her voluminous interior won him over. The yacht was hauled out and surveyed in Trogir, Daan Balk was a guest throughout the study and provided the owner with sound reassurances. The deal was signed in May 2021, with the owner represented by James Hall and David Westwood of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>, and the seller John Cohen of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merle Wood & Associates, Inc. (Company)">Merle Wood &amp; Associates</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265818/image/large-200cb86197f8907e67c59768f906ad8f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265818">But it’s hard to believe that the 50.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> floating in the dock was the same one he bought nearly two years ago. At the time of sale, she was shorter, had less deck space and an old-fashioned stern with small, swing doors that led into the saloon. She was also fitted with twin two tonne cranes, port and starboard. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265764/image/large-f5ef92227d044089b7c4db39a14e7644.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265764">“My tender weighs three tonnes, so those cranes had to go,” her owner explained. “I wanted to restyle the stern section, so I thought why not extend and install a larger crane on the upper aft deck. Daan Balk had left a strong impression on me. I really appreciated his efforts during my visit to Valeria and thought ‘why not take MQ2 there for the refit’.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265781/image/large-1c80402a6a79af370032a66f2a42de19.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265781"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265790/image/large-ede5c877168aec88ce91085c99c4eec2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265790"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265795/image/large-20511eb863d128051c77551f603f4fb6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265795"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265785/image/large-835f076c9e2297ee73ec09d16c4a71bd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265785">&nbsp;“There was a lot of interest in this refit from many shipyards,” Daan Balk explained. “We ended up in a neck-and-neck race against <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/86" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amico & Co. s.r.l. (Company)">Amico &amp; Co</a> The final two contenders. In the end though, we were granted the order and we signed the project right after the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/97" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2021">2021 Monaco Yacht Show</a>.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265752/image/large-2b0599b6320a23dd3d157cff20a027d2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265752">It turned out to be an extensive 16-month refit in total, with her original interiors by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/435" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Robert Knack International (Company)">Robert Knack International</a>stripped bare and everything down to general arrangement entirely redesigned. Her stern wasn’t only restyled, it was also extended by more than a metre and she now features an impressive aft cockpit, complete with a hydraulic swim platform.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265776/image/large-c7e8853bf9fc6a98904d8c2e6d43252c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265776"> “The platform is fantastic; it can be lowered below the waterline. Just think, any charter guest can get in and out of the water with it, regardless of age. It also goes the other way, and my son who’s 17 was asking how high it can go, as he wants to use the platform as a diving board – it’s possible,” he laughed.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265778/image/large-7db59ce967387b1532637f16f594ca62.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265778"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emerald50.4m (165'4&quot;)Feadship1990">Emerald’s</a>&nbsp;naval architecture was re-engineered by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder Design</a>, and the team eked out as much as possible with this redesign. “We wanted the maximum we could, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder Design</a> drew up the plans and made it possible.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265770/image/large-09d0a99ab59be11639ea4aba37fab7cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265770"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265765/image/large-ec6b9c7bf2d0735ca7a317536602df90.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265765">Glass sliding doors have been installed between the skylounge and upper aft deck, replacing the swingset that really was not to the family’s taste. “Look at this space,” he said, swinging his arm around the upper lounge. “Can you imagine being sat here watching Formula One? It doesn’t get much better than that.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265770/image/large-09d0a99ab59be11639ea4aba37fab7cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265770"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265773/image/large-5ddff050fb3e0ab6fd74641de746726c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265773"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265771/image/large-f2e53e7d7af661934e7eb0bb8d3e63d3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265771"> The excitement was palpable and contagious. “This wasn’t here before either,” he said pointing to the stairway that connects the upper and main deck. “And the entire sun deck is new too,” he smiled. Taking pride of place forward of the sundeck is a very large Jacuzzi.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265806/image/large-e4ab38a2b432f8f5359257f7a579ec53.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265806">The owner’s wife took charge of the project, working very closely with the UK-based <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Design Unlimited (Company)">Design Unlimited</a> to map out and curate the perfect vessel. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Design Unlimited (Company)">Design Unlimited</a> was incredible to work with. The team is perfect and they knew exactly what we wanted, how we wanted it. They sat down with my wife and in a day they had the whole project mapped out. An amazing experience,” he said.“We wanted a yacht that was built around family use; plenty of space, lots of character and areas where we can relax to enjoy each other’s company,” her owner explained. Quite uncommon, especially for a yacht of this size, forward of the main deck is not one but two VIP suites. “When we have friends and family onboard, having a second VIP suite next to the master suite gives us more flexibility and the freedom to have our family all together, each with private space yet all on the same deck.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265816/image/large-462a9f714a58748a84e772b49ef02937.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265816"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emerald50.4m (165'4&quot;)Feadship1990">Emerald</a> offers accommodation for as many as 12 guests: four can sleep on the main deck in the two VIP suites, and the remaining eight will find accommodation on the lower deck. Each stateroom is finished with rich dark timbers that are sophisticated and lend the spaces a calming ambiance. There is a strict harmony across the staterooms, with only the ensuites differing in style.&nbsp;“Look at this detail,” the owner proudly said, running his hand over the veined marble bathroom wall. “This one my son picked out.” The portside lower deck double stateroom features vibrant stonework, unlike anything else on the yacht. “We each picked different natural stones for the bathrooms, so each suite has a distinctive character,” he explained. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265817/image/large-ebacdecc9e7bee9249a803d7bab6394d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265817">As we walked through <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emerald50.4m (165'4&quot;)Feadship1990">Emerald</a> the owner was most animated detailing the crew areas. “This wasn’t here before,” the owner said, pointing to a window in the galley. “My wife redesigned the galley and fitted this window. It cost me a fortune, mind. But, look, we’ve positioned it so the galley is well lit and the chef and kitchen staff can enjoy the views.” Each of the crew cabins we stepped into was more generous in size than any I’ve seen before aboard a 50-metre superyacht – or larger, for that matter. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265790/image/large-ede5c877168aec88ce91085c99c4eec2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265790"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265787/image/large-ffeddc33f30ae9b66993860fbda2a04f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265787">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56920" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="50m Feadship superyacht Legacy V rechristened Emerald following major refit at Balk Shipyard (2023-02-09 17:30:00 +0100)">50m Feadship superyacht Legacy V rechristened Emerald following major refit at Balk Shipyard</a>This family-oriented design and generous crew quarters have an added benefit: she’s ideal for the charter market. “I haven’t chartered any of my yachts before now, but <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a> has instilled great confidence in me.” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emerald50.4m (165'4&quot;)Feadship1990">Emerald</a> will make her world debut at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MYBA Charter Show (Company)">MYBA Charter Show</a> in Barcelona on 24 April 2023. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265813/image/large-8bf0ce96031ac3c4b486c089cbbb39a6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265813">“I’m so pleased with her; <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Design Unlimited (Company)">Design Unlimited</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder Design</a> and my representative &nbsp;Jim Boot of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7018" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="WMC Superyachts (Company)">WMC Superyachts</a> have all done an amazing job. If I was to start the project again tomorrow, I wouldn’t change a thing.”<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emerald50.4m (165'4&quot;)Feadship1990">Emerald</a> will be cruising the Mediterranean this summer season and will either be in the Caribbean or the Indian Ocean during the winter. She’s available for charter bookings through <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265807/image/large-9d6a4eebf05e2a8f17adff4ed54455da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265807">

Redesigning the 50m Feadship superyacht Emerald with owner 

The owner of the 50m Feadship superyacht Emerald joined SYT to discuss her refit at Balk Shipyard.

home-featured-bottomleft#0

Owner interview: Redesigning the 50m Feadship superyacht Emerald

Interview with captain of 126m superyacht Octopus

The captain of Lürssen 126m superyacht Octopus joins SYT to retell his story for the first time. 

business-interviews-large-articles#1

Captain Jannek Olsson: Adventures aboard 126m Octopus and working with legendary Paul Allen

First announced in early 2018 with a teaser line drawing that hinted at a sporty exterior, elongated bow and dramatic sheer, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a> was destined to be something unique for the Italian shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>. Featuring exterior design and interior architecture from Frank Laupman of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a>, the yacht, which was delivered in May last year, is an evolution of a design trait Laupman has been playing with for years. With interiors from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4774" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pulina Exclusive Interiors (Company)">Pulina Exclusive Interiors</a>, the yacht’s interior volumes are characterised by bright, light and beachy tones, bathed in light from the floor-to-ceiling windows which wrap around the superyacht’s decks. Here we take a closer look at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rio62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">Rio</a>, a fully custom superyacht which changed hands shortly before its completion and therefore one which shows a shipyard and designers ability to adapt to an entirely new set of desires in next to no time.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235402/image/large-e1a16ff327fc3ed9381a37796d345aff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235402">One of the most characteristic features of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a> is her extremely long bow and dramatic leaning profile that elongates the vessel and gives her the presence of standing high in the water. To accentuate this specification of the first owner, Laupman and his team deviated from the expected and pulled the mast head away from the centre and toward the aft of the vessel. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235415/image/large-9bf91717d387ece5d9fc255d9f4304b1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235415">Developing the yacht from these initial lines, Laupman and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> opted for a large amount of glass, with the aforementioned floor-to-ceiling windows exaggerated further by the low bulwarks on all sides. Utilising a trait from an inspiration series created by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> following the launch of the 73-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2749" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yalla73.0m (239'6&quot;)CRN2014">Yalla</a> in 2014, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a> incorporates a characteristic arch to the aft, sweeping from the superstructure of the owner’s deck to the transom. A dynamic tool, the arch not only unifies the hull and main deck, but also makes the entire superstructure appear smaller and more tapered than it really is, giving the entire vessel the sense of leaning direction. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235409/image/large-c8e29ca83611d51d65894fede12aedf1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235409">Laupman explained, “The risk with an arch in this position is that it could intrude into your view from the aft deck, which is why the arches are hollow, allowing the eye to pass through them, while still retaining this interesting disruption of the hull line that creates a unique and special appearance.” With echoes of this distinctive arch visible in other <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> designs, a dramatic example being the 65-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3676" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Illusion65.0m (213'3&quot;)Heesen Yachts2013">Galactica Star</a>, now Illusion, it is clear to see how the motif has evolved over the years; on Rio this results in a more upright and angular feature. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235436/image/large-4bdbd06be6d583bc5f606c0f8b9e98f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235436"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235435/image/large-ff6fd4dad7ebd2954231e6c94bd4a872.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235435">Offering an elegant support for the owner’s deck aft, the archway has allowed Laupman to pull the overhang further aft and elongate it without visually impeding on the profile of the superyacht. This owner’s deck aft is home, as is custom now, to a large dining table, lounge chairs and sunbeds, while the foredeck features a private owner’s Jacuzzi and lounge area with an awning and table, utilising that elongated bow.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235434/image/large-5060b2bc586ee9d020bf646e3e509343.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235434">While the uppermost aft deck area is dedicated to the guests, the main access point is an external stairwell which leads from the owner’s deck. This is because the internal volumes are dedicated to the technical management of the yacht, with the interiors home to the emergency generator, captain’s cabin, first officers cabin, pantry and wheelhouse.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235413/image/large-fbd242d3e73f9226f8aa0b95cf67fd5c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235413">Laupman has unified the design of this technical deck with the entire form of the vessel with the use of a number of clever motifs. The wing stations on either side of the vessel have been defined as separate forms which protrude from the superstructure at graphic angles and catch the light. Laupman explained, “the wing stations are a hard form with a sideways angle which are integrated with the visors over the windows that accentuate the entire feeling of the yacht ‘tumbling home’.” These lines are then balanced by another, gentler arch at the aft of the upper deck glazing, which adds yet another dynamic touch to the yacht’s exterior profile.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235422/image/large-c19dfe91444942dc3920d242dc9e990d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235422">When it comes to her interiors, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a> has been carefully configured by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> to emphasise a flowing sense of interior-exterior harmony, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4774" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pulina Exclusive Interiors (Company)">Pulina</a> have created an interior styling that brings to life the owner’s wishes for bright spaces and a happy atmosphere. Alessandro Pulina commented, “The concept of the yacht was Tropical Mood, as prevailing upbeat white tones forming a backdrop throughout are set off with lively pops of colour. We wanted to create a sort of colourful and exotic amusement park inside the yacht, with unique art selections and decorations, made to measure with the ever-changing experiences inside the vessel.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235423/image/large-e7e204566d38ecc7fa7fc7b9a42eaadb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235423"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> added, “The preferred woods are American walnut and white lacquered oak in staves, selected respectively for the floors and walls all through the yacht. Crema d’Orcia and Calacatta Vagli Oro marbles were chosen for the bathrooms, chiming with the predominant light hues. The most vivid notes come from other marbles: the blues of the Azul Macauba in the saloons and the mossy Irish Green in the outdoor bars light up the spaces with colour combinations that vaunt a decidedly marine vibe.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235444/image/large-f465bb43e7905145e9f3c680c7c572f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235444"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235445/image/large-7796ccf33d4784b54ae10491edba77ff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235445">Diverging from the standard saloon layout, guests enter from the aft deck sliding doors where they are greeted by a standing bar, the dining table and then the lounge area with a huge TV and integrated stereo system. The bar at the entrance to the interiors creates a sense of conviviality, by greeting guests with a social and welcoming atmosphere and acting as a bridge between the exterior and the dining area. This is then maximised by the bespoke round drum table that can accommodate as many as 12 guests. This opening decision sets the tone for the entire interior, which is truly focused on the entertainment of guests and the creation of unique spaces to enjoy with friends and family.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235442/image/large-0fbd5b301b4deffc937aa0226656e5a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235442"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235443/image/large-22b3267e48a0cee25fa40d9db67f46cc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235443">With six guest staterooms, including a full beam owner’s suite on the owner’s deck, a full beam master on the main deck and four lower deck staterooms, all with their own ensuite bathrooms. While the owner’s suite and master staterooms align with the bright and beachy style of the main deck and sky lounge, the lower deck staterooms have each been styled in playful tones and prints.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235429/image/large-d4df958ddb0be3944377aa2f4d504559.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235429"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235426/image/large-94b81ba6edc981a33666d4b51550def2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235426">A representative of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> explained, “The owner and his family were directly involved in the styling and design process of the staterooms, in fact each cabin was made to measure to meet personal desires of each guest; one of the owner’s express request was to have bright spaces and a happy atmosphere full of colours for the younger family members especially. For this reason each guest cabin has white lacquered-oak staved walls that are enlivened with dashes of colour. Each stateroom is finished differently, personalised with its own colour scheme – red/brown, green/blue and pastel green – for the wall panels, profiling and furnishings.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235446/image/large-c3c26641f9c4aa122d8e0f97d1e60522.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235446"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235447/image/large-fd2a510963844b87d6d99cfdf10556bc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235447">Alessandro Pulina highlighted some of the fully custom elements to the interior, noting, “An impressive detail would be the presence of 9,000 slats, used to create the walls of the yacht, together with interesting curve elements made by hand. Every wall is characterised by a linear led illumination which highlights all these slats continuously and accentuates the shadows and light. In fact, we wanted to convey dynamism through the combination of dualistic contrasts and expressive colour ranges.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235408/image/large-c184ac2c699ae87c98e717b3f5af043a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235408">Like the exterior design, the interior plays with shape and form and the result is a highly unified yacht with flowing interior and exterior spaces.This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-42" target="_blank">Issue 42 of SuperYacht Times newspaper.</a>&nbsp;To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

CRN yacht RIO onboard

 Francesca Webster went behind the scenes with the designers of the 62m CRN superyacht RIO, launched in early 2022.

RIO: A closer look onboard CRN's 62m superyacht

The 37-metre Alloy sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/766" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Genevieve37.0m (121'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts1995">Genevieve</a> has rescued 16 people from a capsized fishing skiff off the coast of St Kitts &amp; Nevis, between the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/264008/image/large-b8900f9e83b12cdbfd4d8799251d9800.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/264008">At around 23:30 on 27 March, while sailing from Antigua to Saint Maarten, the lookout onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/766" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Genevieve37.0m (121'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts1995">Genevieve</a> heard a faint noise that sounded like a woman’s scream. The crew put on their life jackets with personal locator beacons (PLBs) and radios, activated a Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and called a mayday. They then immediately made their way back to the sound.The captain of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/766" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Genevieve37.0m (121'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts1995">Genevieve</a>, Thomas Auckland, positioned four crew around the vessel with torches and searchlights to try to locate the woman, or women they had heard screaming. During the search, the first mate was in charge of all radio communications and alarms, and the crew eventually found the first casualty.The crew of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/766" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Genevieve37.0m (121'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts1995">Genevieve</a> spotted a man clinging on to part of a damaged life jacket around six minutes later. They used a small circular fender, attached to an additional buoyancy aid and fastened to a rescue line to throw downwind and pull the man onboard from the folding swim platform.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/8468/image/large-4ac3c78ceff86c423a71b4f62ec1288d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/8468">The man was retrieved at around 23:39 and by the time he reached the cockpit he was unconscious. While the crew had not compromised their safety, they had taken in a considerable amount of water into the lazarette while battling the rough sea conditions of around two-metres and 20 knots.The crew of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/766" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Genevieve37.0m (121'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts1995">Genevieve</a> continued their search for the woman they had heard screaming and at around 23:57 they spotted her clinging to a white plastic barrel, around 400-metres from where the man was rescued. She was rescued in a similar way, although the crew had more difficulty and it took three to haul her onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/8466/image/large-f9b6e4fb7a33e7c75753225decd23010.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/8466">Once the woman was in the cockpit she informed the crew that she had been travelling on a small boat which had left Antigua, bound for St Thomas (USVI), with approximately 32 people onboard. The vessel she had been travelling onboard of had broken down, taken on water and had capsized. At this point, Captain Thomas Auckland discharged two red parachute flares.At around 00:28, the crew of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/766" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Genevieve37.0m (121'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts1995">Genevieve</a> spotted plastic drums floating in the water, and shortly afterwards they noticed a light coming in and out of sight, which later proved to be the light of a mobile phone being waved around. On approach they discovered the upturned fishing skiff La Belle Michelle, with 15 persons straddled on the hull, approximately 1.1 nautical miles from the first casualty.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/8459/image/large-3720f1bde1cd3df5c1ac75497bd01287.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/8459">The crew of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/766" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Genevieve37.0m (121'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts1995">Genevieve</a> assembled on the aft deck and used a floating line and fender attached to a long Dyneema tail to rescue the casualties. They used a rescue sling and an additional safety line for the casualties to run themselves along the rope one by one, before transferring to the sling and hauled onboard.Captain Thomas Auckland was responsible for throwing the rescue sling, communicating with casualties and removing them for the water at midships with assistance from the engineer onboard. The first mate was in charge of ensuring the rescue line and safety were free to run, as well as resetting the sling and helping remove casualties at midships, with the chef mimicking this role and clearing the side deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/8450/image/large-a0514024af77f602b654c511203bbfe1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/8450">The stewardess onboard acted as a triage nurse, assessing injuries, getting the casualties into the cockpit and providing them with water and bedding. Finally, the deck stewardess provided light to the rescuers using the large spotlight to light the vessel and then the casualties as they came across them.The casualties were at first clearly reluctant to entrust themselves to the rope, with only two wearing life jackets and most of them unable to swim. The crew onboard Genevieve later discovered that all of the casualties were wearing all the clothes they owned, with many wearing three pairs of jeans over six upper layers. Although this made swimming challenging, it provided something for the crew to hold onto when pulling them onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/8460/image/large-fb12d88e477fc528534dd61e3f71f57d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/8460">“It became apparent that towards the end, the casualties were becoming less and less physically able and unfortunately the last casualty fell from the hull and was unable to make it along the line,” recalled Captain Thomas Auckland.“We remained attached to the hull searching for the last individual until 01:57. Thereafter, I decided that marking the upturned hull with lights strapped to a lifejacket and cutting it loose was the best option, as I felt the situation was becoming hazardous. In hindsight, this was perhaps my biggest regret, as we had spare PLBs onboard and should have affixed one, as this would have served as a helpful search marker for MV Britannia, who had just taken up the role of on-scene MRCC.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/8461/image/large-fe8c3aa550d56c44cc6221b1149017a1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/8461">Overall, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/766" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Genevieve37.0m (121'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts1995">Genevieve</a> reportedly had 16 Cameroonian migrants onboard, 13 of whom were male. All casualties were given water, sugary drinks, food and blankets, and were grouped together in the cockpit. The male crew members remained at the helm station, while Captain Thomas Auckland ran back and forth on the VOIP line with MRCC Fort du France, who requested they remain at the scene until air support arrived.At 03:42, the crew onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/766" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Genevieve37.0m (121'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts1995">Genevieve</a> were given permission to depart the scene and headed directly to Basseterre in St Kitts, which was approximately 34 nautical miles away. The female crew came and administered basic first aid; fed, watered and tried to dry out as much of their clothing as possible. On arrival they were transferred via coast guard boat to the main base.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/8458/image/large-b256470cba20ac18f91157da90ef8897.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/8458">“I think what I take away most from this is just how well the crew performed under immense pressure: they were all making very sensible and rational decisions in a situation in which they have had very little training. We of course were incredibly lucky to hear a scream in the dark over the wind, and also unbelievably lucky that we were able to save so many people,” commented Captain Thomas Auckland.“I would like to thank, MRCC Fort du France, MV Britannia, Marine Assist Osprey, sailing yacht Midnight, St Kitts Coastguard and the numerous other vessels, that came together so selflessly,” concluded Captain Thomas Auckland. “It is an honour to sail the waters with you”.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/8454/image/large-053565e9735fbe11d38a78650fda2426.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/8454">In a statement issued on Tuesday afternoon, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne expressed “deep sorrow” at the loss of life and distress suffered by the passengers who were onboard La Belle Michelle.He said the government would launch “a full investigation into the circumstances of this unlawful and dreadful affair, including the involvement of any citizens and residents”.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/8448/image/large-e4ac5ae0538ba85b6d6d2add6b793eb0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/8448">Following on from the rescue, the crew of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/766" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Genevieve37.0m (121'5&quot;)Alloy Yachts1995">Genevieve</a> has set up a <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/helpingcamerooniansinantigua?utm_term=zMD6K4y89" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">JustGiving page to raise funds</a> to help provide basic housing, sanitation and food for the community.&nbsp;"We want to better seafarers understanding of what is unfortunately a growing issue in the waters in which we sail. As well as, raise awareness for the Cameroonian Nationals stranded in Antigua, with the hope of improving their quality of living."You can donate to the page using there following link:<a href="https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/helpingcamerooniansinantigua?utm_term=zMD6K4y89" target="_blank">https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/helpingcamerooniansinantigua?utm_term=zMD6K4y89</a>

37m Alloy yacht Genevieve rescues 16 from capsized boat

The 37-metre Alloy sailing yacht Genevieve has rescued 16 people from a capsized fishing skiff off the coast of St Kitts & Nevis.

37m Alloy sailing yacht Genevieve rescues 16 from capsized boat off St Kitts & Nevis

What gulets are to Turkey and Croatia, dhows are to the United Arab Emirates. Wrought with tradition with builds dating back aeons – the dhows are an integral part of UAE culture and heritage and are still widely used today. This tradition has spurred on a strange phenomenon: wooden dhow-inspired superyachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262478/image/large-608b9781f319d0cefba1295d8e9e0f70.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262478">The first dhows that danced across the Red Sea and Indian Ocean were much thinner than they are today. Over the years they’ve stretched and expanded to offer more volume and more stability, but originally they were incredibly slender, packed with goods, darting from port to port.Fisherman and pearl divers had different requirements and needed space to carry their equipment and daily catches. Importantly, they also needed space for more people. These beamier boats are a common sight across the UAE and many are so engorged, swallowing entire restaurants to offer fine dining experiences for hundreds of guests at any given cruise.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262477/image/large-c292da7f2fb1c4adcbbbe9af10bd0569.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262477">The wooden superyachts infuse the two traditions. “The DNA of these superyachts relate just as much to the original dhows as they do to the wide beam and voluminous modern ones,” Mahmoud Itani of IR Yachts told SuperYacht Times. “In this region, onboard space is really important as people want to go out with large groups of friends; usage is very different to Europe.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263196/image/large-96a02755f154b9edeb1b5b06b318e78d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263196">"These yachts are hard to trace as they’re custom-built for individual clients and rarely go on the market – or to any shows, for that matter. “I’ve been attending and organising the Dubai International Boat Show for more than 10 years now, and I can’t remember ever seeing a single superyacht on display that was built out of wood,” Itani reflected.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262487/image/large-807cf5d601fc605e401b8d6626a29e8a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262487"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262484/image/large-ab44a56f02225eb532c9637ba2f5eaf7.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262484"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262485/image/large-675093ccd1a8dc465dee62fd80015b59.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262485">It makes sense too, as these yachts are rarely – if ever – put up for charter, kept in private use away from the public eye. Boat Shows aren’t relevant for the shipyard’s marketing purposes either, as these wooden dhow-inspired superyachts are invariably single units and quite often the only one built and delivered by that particular shipyard.“There are a few boat builders in the UAE that would build one of these yachts, but the design rarely comes from their in-house team. After meeting their own design team, the client will then approach a shipyard in either Al Jadaf or, more recently, Dubai maritime city,” Itani explained. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262497/image/large-ea48a1afc0b6a7773c138f1d503e36bb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262497"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262494/image/large-c54ef33378f581c876b5bc98b37142df.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262494">We believe there could be as many as 10 in and around the region, the largest of which is on the market listed with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bush & Noble (Company)">Bush &amp; Noble</a>. The unnamed 50-metre Full Custom wooden superyacht was delivered in 2020 and undertook a maintenance appointment last year, which included a complete repaint with a high gloss clear coat. She has a price tag just shy of $10,000,000. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262495/image/large-cd1ea84bdb62b5b43d893603b165ecb0.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262495"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262489/image/large-5b4877b6688fbd54f48378f2720c19d3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262489"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262488/image/large-a0442a0dcfd95fee7c06e74c1b204bc5.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262488">Unlike the other wooden dhow-inspired superyachts, this 50-metre has a unique construction that utilises fibre and teak planks. She’s constructed with a teak hull and GRP superstructure, which has then been clad with teak for that traditional look and feel. Henderson Marine International designed and engineered her.With a beam of 10.56, she’s a metre and a half wider than the average 50-metre motor yacht built after 2018. And once onboard it’s the first thing you notice. She’s cavernous and has been styled with the more familiar trappings, all sourced from Italy at “no expense spared,” as central agent <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bush & Noble (Company)">Bush &amp; Noble</a> explain. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262479/image/large-3b074acd794dfdc3701713a1994606a3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262479">The main saloon is home to many seating areas for socialising, a breakfast bar, two screening areas and a formal dining area. She has six staterooms and can comfortably accommodate as many as 12 guests. She can also host five crew in five cabins.When asked about the buying profile for this superyacht, Bret Noble of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bush & Noble (Company)">Bush &amp; Noble</a> anticipates the most attention from Qatar. "There are many well-built traditional dhows in the region," Noble explained. "Qatar is really the number one region for these boats. But they're also not an uncommon sight in and around the UAE. The 50-metre Full Custom superyacht is unique though and interesting for the Australasian market."&nbsp;The second largest known wooden superyacht is the 47.55-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4428" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tiger47.55m (156'0&quot;)Unknown2009">Tiger</a>, delivered in 2009 and currently berthed in Abu Dhabi. Then there’s the 47.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7265" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Al Adaam 47.5m (155'10&quot;)Unknown2016">Al Adaam</a> and 47-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7266" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Al Maqam 47.0m (154'2&quot;)Unknown2016">Al Maqam</a> (pictured below), both delivered in 2016. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262693/image/large-0c6ce6794e310131951dfbb44d5f1cac.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262693"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/172073/image/large-e19ea236eda006e4340ba9d522119e78.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/172073">One of the earlier wooden superyachts to hit the water was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4429" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Touch Wood II44.2m (145'0&quot;)Saif Mohd. Belqaizi Ship Building2011">Touch Wood II</a>, &nbsp;delivered in 2011 by the artisan shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5095" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Saif Mohd. Belqaizi Ship Building (Company)">Saif Belgaizi Ship Building &amp; Carpentry</a>, which typically builds traditional dhows and bespoke furniture. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4429" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Touch Wood II44.2m (145'0&quot;)Saif Mohd. Belqaizi Ship Building2011">Touch Wood II</a> spans three decks, with an interior volume of 450 GT. She’s constructed from Indian teak.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/8033/image/large-b475c2f0f3a18d756c6476fa0baa9f5b.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/8033"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/38038/image/large-f1b6ff6365126f6113fa7098f8a92d83.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/38038">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/42027" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="More details about Dubai mystery yacht Touch Wood (2014-03-23 23:00:00 +0100)">More details about Dubai mystery yacht Touch Wood</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4429" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Touch Wood II44.2m (145'0&quot;)Saif Mohd. Belqaizi Ship Building2011">Touch Wood II’s</a> predecessor, the 37-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4427" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dijer37.0m (121'5&quot;)Unknown2005">Dijer</a> (ex. Touch Wood), was built at a different shipyard, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7070" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Obaid Bin Juma Bin Suloom (Company)">Obtain Bin Juma Bin Suloon</a>, the Guinness world record holder for building the largest wooden dhow. Dijer is believed to have been delivered in 2005 with a volume of 400 GT. “I’ve been onboard,” Itani said. “She’s pretty dark inside as even her interior is made of wood. But she’s very big and the guest areas are incredibly spacious.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/38040/image/large-7aaf4812d505544f87bc43c731162d78.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/38040"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/147576/image/large-d6e1c2e0c149a385332f95df5acf93df.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/147576"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263195/image/large-bc5267867735c226255b439fc1bbc729.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263195">These yachts are also built to a different class – Tasneef, a local classification society – &nbsp;that allows them to be built in a certain way. The owners have even more flexibility with their designs and can put further emphasis on the cabin and guest areas. “They’re also not powered by large <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines either,” Itani added. “They’re low power, low consumption vessels that are extremely quiet when underway.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/26802/image/large-8c94a518774372581e9243490ccf1635.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/26802">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/41945" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The unusual superyacht Touch Wood in Dubai (2014-03-05 23:00:00 +0100)">The unusual superyacht Touch Wood in Dubai</a>The three smallest are perhaps more dhow than yacht, but the list comprises 33.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5991" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="El Emadi 33.2m (108'11&quot;)Al Mannai Marine2016">El Emadi</a>, 31.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5990" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project B31.2m (102'4&quot;)Al Mannai Marine2015">Project B</a> and 30.35-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5992" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alaska30.35m (99'7&quot;)Al Mannai Marine2015">Alaska</a>, all built by Al Mannai in Doha, Qatar.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/20780/image/large-b5c6fb3008083a22eb4aca0d66cfef2c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20780"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/20785/image/large-2b3de5ac8e41635ef57d697b8f1f5437.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20785"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/2130/image/large-73300e66f02149625432dc2bec0150eb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/2130"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/2129/image/large-24e22c65dd02060d3f18d86eb4150f8c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/2129">If anyone has information about any other dhow-inspired wooden superyachts, please reach out to <a href="mailto:news@superyachttimes.com" target="_blank">news@superyachttimes.com</a>&nbsp;

dhow-inspired wooden superyachts

What gulets are to Turkey and Croatia, dhows are to the United Arab Emirates – and they've created a new phenomenon: wooden dhow-inspired superyachts.

The classical charms of the wooden dhow-inspired superyacht fleet

Rooted within a deep tradition of yacht building in the United States, yet far outliving many of its contemporaries, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor Shipyards</a> has expanded exponentially over the past 75 years since its foundation. Famed for its expertise in yacht building, with yachts such as the 85.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/28" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquila85.6m (280'10&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2010">Aquila</a> under its belt, as well as its knowledge for refit, maintenance and yacht repair, the company has built a reputation of excellence over the decades.Having grown from its original yard in New York, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/28" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquila85.6m (280'10&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2010">Derecktor Shipyards</a> now span the East Coast with four major facilities. Its most recent acquisition is the reputed shipyard in Fort Pierce in South Florida, which came under the management of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/28" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquila85.6m (280'10&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2010">Derecktor Shipyard</a> in 2019. The yard offers a totally unique experience for yacht crew during refit and maintenance. We spoke with Justin Beard, Marketing and Sales Development Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/28" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquila85.6m (280'10&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2010">Derecktor</a>, to find out a little more about this titan of American yachting. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251765/image/large-20e7c52020c060c2309484b9b543e89a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251765">What were the origins of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor Shipyards</a>&nbsp;and how has it continued after Bob Derecktor?When Bob was in high school, sometime during the 1930s, he designed a 26-foot sloop and built it in his family’s backyard in White Plains, New York – using oak for the frames, fir for the deck and pine for the mast. With the help of a friend, he sailed it to Nova Scotia for the summer.After a couple of years, Bob left college to focus on his passion. He built a 38-foot schooner and sailed it from New York to Baltimore, where he took a job at the Owens Boatyard, advancing quickly through the ranks to become foreman. Eventually returning to the New York area, he worked at the Edgar Johns Shipyard in Rye and Minnefords in City Island, building minesweepers designed to detonate underwater mines during World War II. Bob soon joined the effort himself, enlisting in the U.S. Navy in the early 1940s.&nbsp;During 1947, shortly after returning from the Navy, the young boatbuilder established Robert E. Derecktor, Inc. on Boston Post Road in Mamaroneck, New York. Surrounding himself with talented employees who would continue to grow along with the company, over the years he expanded the yard, following the ebbs and flows of the boatbuilding business — transitioning from wood to aluminium, from cruising boats to race boats, from sail to power, then to larger yachts and commercial boats.Today, four <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a>’s facilities span the Eastern Seaboard of the U.S. from Maine to South Florida, offering vessel owners and operators everything from marina space to superyacht construction. Over more than seven decades, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> has made a name for itself on the global yachting stage, highlighted by the launch of the motor yacht Cakewalk (now Aquila), which at 2,998 tonnes, is the largest yacht ever built in the U.S.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251762/image/large-edb6290204fc28da2a664f527cfda01c.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251762">How did the business evolve from those early days?Transitioning from wood to aluminium, from cruising boats to race boats, from sail to power, then to larger yachts and commercial boats, and now a leader in hybrid vessels… It’s quite the evolution over time. But more than that, from the beginning; has been the driving passion to create, to build, and to innovate - to do things in different and better ways.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251763/image/large-7b5036e878eb4014ff2d8eab901cb78c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251763">Why do you think&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a>&nbsp;has continued to succeed and expand while so many American shipyards have disappeared?Remaining flexible to shifting market demands has driven <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a>’s continued success throughout these seventy-five years. We take pride in the ability of our people to excel in multiple disciplines while continuing to deliver superior craftsmanship, whether working on an ultramodern superyacht or a rugged commercial vessel. This is evident throughout our history where <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> regularly adopted new and revolutionary ways to do things in different and better ways.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251772/image/large-ba7a9f9617057bc1fa1b2b7aa243871c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251772">How does the team manage the shipyards and marinas across the various states?&nbsp;Each <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> yard is uniquely different and structured to serve specific clientele under direction of knowledgeable general managers and experienced tradespeople. Paul Derecktor, President and CEO, works alongside our executive team setting our course for the future, while other business functions like business development, marketing, sales, accounting and purchasing are all centrally managed.The New York yard is a repair and refit hub for the region’s commercial fleet, along with power and sailing yachts under 40 metres. Additionally, the yard continues Bob Derecktor’s legacy of delivering innovative commercial vessels as a leader in hybrid construction and is ideally positioned to support the development of the nation’s emerging offshore wind farm industry. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> Robinhood in Georgetown, Maine, is a relaxing destination marina with a yard capable of accommodating sail and power yachts up to 34 metres.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251769/image/large-8459974c1b884b2fb60ea9ce56f4898f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251769"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> Dania, Florida, is widely recognized as a global leader in expert superyacht repair or complete refit. Our combination of experience, professional project management and never-ending attention to detail is renowned for producing unrivalled results and customer benefit. From our deep, protected 17-acre site to our 900-tonne mobile boat hoist, Dania is set up to handle virtually any project up to 65-metre with minimum stress and maximum efficiency.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> Ft. Pierce was specifically designed and developed with the 75-metre, 900-tonne and up fleet in mind. It’s home to the largest mobile boat hoist in the Western Hemisphere – a massive machine with a 1500-tonne hauling capacity. This new global port of call offers the same superior service and project management <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> clients have come to expect and is conveniently located 45 nautical miles north of West Palm Beach, FL, in the quaint beachside town of Fort Pierce. Situated directly inside Fort Pierce Inlet, the facility offers deep water access to the Atlantic Ocean with unlimited overhead clearance, it’s now an ideal choice for the global fleet of superyachts and large sailing yachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251770/image/large-2ed1e5c9d6494c35283f1b5367fe8e66.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251770">What are the plans for the new facility in Fort Pierce?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> has invested significant resources into Fort Pierce and is committed to creating a shipyard capable of rivalling any in the world. The MBH 1,500 and access to South Florida’s extensive network of specialised marine vendors and subcontractors is imperative, as is the community where captains and their crews will call home during their yard period. Fort Pierce, with its laid-back atmosphere and old Florida vibe, is a special place we believe everyone will enjoy. We welcome the yacht industry to come check it out, one might be surprised at what we have to offer.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251773/image/large-bdde7c5251b78a392a7c30479f6d081b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251773">Will the new construction sector continue to be a focus of the business – do you foresee this expanding as other shipyards close down?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> is more than capable of building a sophisticated luxury yacht, but committing to such a project would depend entirely on scope and yard capacity. Fort Pierce offers more flexibility in accommodating a wider variety of vessels and available workspace. While we haven’t launched a yacht since Cakewalk in 2010, we would certainly be open to discussing opportunities now or in the future. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> will remain an industry leader in the construction of commercial hybrid electric vessels. We are actively developing sustainable propulsion solutions for new build projects and the repowering of existing vessels.With eyes and minds firmly set on the future, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> will continue to be a stalwart of the American yacht building industry and a reliable face for yacht owners arriving in the U.S. from the world over. We look forward to seeing them in their element this October at the <a href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show - 2022">Fort Lauderdale Boat Show</a>!This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-43-newspaper-launched" target="_blank">Issue 43 of SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>.&nbsp;To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

The history behind Derecktor Shipyards

Bob Derecktor’s shipyards have been a stalwart of American yacht building for 75 years, we found out a little more about this historic company.

At the shipyard with Derecktor Shipyards: Born in the USA

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s 111-metre superyacht Project Y722 has been seen out of the shed for the first time as she nears completion. The motor yacht began construction in 2020 at the Zwijndrecht facility in the Netherlands, and is currently the largest yacht in-build at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273135/image/large-7622b0c659d4f0b822f6da83d26b90e1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273135">Details surrounding Project Y722 have been kept tightly under wraps, since construction started on the steel hull and aluminium superstructure. Her naval architecture has been penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lateral Naval Architects (Company)">Lateral Naval Architects</a>, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mark Berryman Design Ltd (Company)">Mark Berryman Design Ltd</a> were responsible for her interior.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273134/image/large-9626611c8f66dc0a596dbb00be9c0d2d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273134"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273136/image/large-439d79f675237f14c103044a0ab2170e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273136">With an estimated 5,500 GT of interior volume, Project Y722 could be the largest superyacht built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> in terms of volume. However, in terms of length, Project Y722 ranks third behind the 117-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6433" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Infinity117.0m (383'10&quot;)Oceanco2022">Infinity</a>, and Jeff Bezos’ recently delivered sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7500" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koru127.0m (416'8&quot;)Oceanco2023">Koru</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273137/image/large-50bb6ef9f5efc71fc5bbe2363c5d8352.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273137">

Oceanco superyacht Project Y222 nears completion

The 111m Oceanco superyacht Project Y722 has been seen out of the shed for the first time as she nears completion. 

111m Oceanco superyacht Project Y222 seen out of the shed for the first time

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY Marinas</a> has announced its partnership with NEOM, the global development taking shape in northwest Saudi Arabia. The planned smart city is currently in construction and once complete will support the vision of establishing the area as a world-leading travel destination. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250919/image/large-834ab5a6be786201ca6248864772ee79.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250919">Through their partnership, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY Marinas</a> will work with NEOM to develop and operate the prestigious marina at Sindalah. Positioned with direct access to the Red Sea, Sindalah will be the closest marina to Europe and the Mediterranean.&nbsp;Sindalah is expected to be a key project in supporting Saudi Arabia’s national tourism strategy, and the marina will offer 86 berths for yachts up to 50-metres. As well as this, additional serviced offshore buoys will provide anchorages for superyachts up to 180-metres.“Sindalah will be one of the most alluring and vibrant yachting destinations in the world, thanks to its strategic location, outstanding amenities and stunning natural landscapes,” explained Antoni Vives, Head of Urban Development at NEOM. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250918/image/large-35931dea9dd1c2769f1d6af559839d52.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250918">On land, Sindalah will offer guests high-end premium hotels options including Four Seasons and the Ultra Luxury Collection by Marriott. Other tourist attractions will include retail venues, ulinary dining from Michelin star chefs and an exotic golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones and operated by IMG.“This partnership with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY</a> is one of many steps we are taking to achieve our vision of reshaping the global yachting calendar, with NEOM located one day’s cruising distance from the Mediterranean Sea.”Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56505" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Red Sea development: Sindalah, NEOM’s first island development with 86-berth marina announced (2022-12-05 14:30:00 +0100)">Red Sea development: Sindalah, NEOM’s first island development with 86-berth marina announced<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273050/image/large-3d985d97247e2118f83b87c08bb9ea4e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273050"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY Marinas</a> currently offers a network of 23 marinas across 12 countries, and once established, Sindalah will also offer exclusive membership of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY Marinas</a> superyacht membership program <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY</a> Trident.“Sindalah perfectly integrates with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY</a>’s global vision to connect the world’s most incredible yachting destinations across our growing marina network,” added Tom Mukamal, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY Marinas</a>. “The addition of NEOM to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY</a> platform provides superyacht owners, captains and charter guests unrivaled destinations, service and convenience. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY</a> is tremendously excited about the opportunity to promote this amazing new destination to the international yachting community.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273043/image/large-91d98ad2b2e78c4726181f722b5c486a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273043">NEOM is currently in-build, with the first destinations due to open in 2024. The project has been phased with OXAGON getting its first residents in 2024 and TROJENA becoming a place to live, work and holiday in 2026. THE LINE will be activated in 2026 and by 2030, around one million people will be residing in NEOM, with predictions that this figure will rise to nine million in 2045.

IGY Marinas partners with NEOM marina Sindalah in Saudi Arabia

IGY Marinas has announced its partnership with the NEOM marina Sindalah to develop yachting in Saudi Arabia.

IGY Marinas partners with NEOM marina Sindalah to develop yachting in Saudi Arabia 

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243632/image/large-3d50ab60434244be48566f6dc3f3b2d3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243632">The 41.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2753" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miss Iloilo41.8m (137'2&quot;)Feadship1986">Miss Iloilo</a>, previously named Golden Rule and&nbsp;Excellence, has been sold with Alan Kelly of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6930" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="LIIR Yachts International (Company)">LIIR Yachts International</a> representing the buyer and Miles Clark of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243633/image/large-f1fddfafe36a2250f695f73030662287.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243633"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243634/image/large-31f69750b1dc27bfe8a93b9e61991006.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243634"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243631/image/large-40a4b70e1641484ab4df18b8e19e1ab5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243631">The motor yacht was delivered in 1986. She features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/30" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Voogt Naval Architects (Company)">De Voogt Naval Architects</a>, while her interior was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/42" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Glade Johnson Design, Inc. (Company)">Glade Johnson Design,</a> with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/30" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Voogt Naval Architects (Company)">De Voogt Naval Architects</a>. Up to 13 guests are accommodated onboard the superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2753" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miss Iloilo41.8m (137'2&quot;)Feadship1986">Miss Iloilo</a>, and she also has accommodation for 11 crew members including the captain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207848/image/large-9943132e2775be61bfd1823f8d14c9fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207848"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243641/image/large-d3cd30e8cfe38849a5b905a68536feef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243641"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207846/image/large-7da9674d3e31131bd8a4cd2b2eca6b2d.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207846">The motor yacht has a steel hull and aluminium superstructure. She 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, which give her a cruising speed of 11 knots and a top speed of 13.7 knots. The yacht carries 43,112 litres of fuel onboard, and 8,210 litres of water.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207845/image/large-e2c940e783ad00978c0d6e04c80a5914.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207845"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207844/image/large-939eb03d0cd528608e88d94985a58ff5.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207844">She had a last asking price of $7,800,000.

42m Feadship motor yacht Miss Iloilo sold

The 41.8m Feadship motor yacht, Miss Iloilo, sold with LIIR Yachts International representing the buyer and Ocean Independence representing the seller

The 40-metre ketch sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4333" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alessandro40.0m (131'3&quot;)Ruth Yachting2011">Alessandro</a> is for sale. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/alessandro" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a>, which was built by Turkish shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2667" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ruth Yachting (Company)">Ruth Yachting</a>, was launched in 2011. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273022/image/large-0a61029438fb1a8ef7c6c0b260be56d0.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273022">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/sailing/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">sailing yacht for sale</a> features a ketch rig and wooden hull, with an 8-metre beam and volume of 143 GT. Designed in house by her builder, the sailing yacht features expansive decks with a large dining area, forward sunbathing and deck Jacuzzi. The yacht also features a fold down transom that transforms into a swim platform and offers easy access to the main deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260745/image/large-83c3a6edad2ba8d3a8d1b8dfca6188b8.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260745"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260747/image/large-89d469262d367a1a5458789d4644b85d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260747"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260754/image/large-6b81363dcf26172b1b169d5f1d5b3dfb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260754">&nbsp;Able to accommodate as many as 10 guests between five staterooms, the yacht for sale has a full beam owner's suite, and four doubles. The owner's suite is extremely spacious, with a centralised, walk-around king bed, a number of lounges and a small table for working or dining.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260750/image/large-40cbdb82ed05d8947d0024b4edfc0b5f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260750"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260751/image/large-3bd882929bd654cb37762f8b1aa62421.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260751"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260752/image/large-eca222858d2411f14e717b63aa75914f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260752">The yacht's interior is well appointed and she features a comfortable and spacious main saloon and cockpit area, with a large dining table that can accommodate as many as 10 guests. The main saloon features a bar, lounge and dining area, as well as a steering wheel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260748/image/large-48bccaee4ddebfdf8afe3e09091d720a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260748"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260749/image/large-b068764eeaa049f9ec706c6494c2065f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260749">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/ruth-yachting/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Ruth Yachting yacht for sale</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Volvo Penta (Company)">Volvo Penta</a> engines to a top speed of 13 knots under power, and a cruising speed of 9 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260744/image/large-fb0b65dfa1cb862c527dff7b7e0d0555.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260744">She is currently located near Split, Croatia and is available for viewings throughout the summer.

40m sailing yacht Alessandro for sale

The 40m ketch sailing yacht Alessandro is for sale. 

40m ketch sailing yacht Alessandro for sale

The 31.39-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2631" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Broward Shipyard (Company)">Broward&nbsp;</a>motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Three Kings31.39m (102'12&quot;)Broward Marine1999">Three Kings</a>, previously named Depression, has been sold with Gary Goddard of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5421" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Staten Island Yacht Sales (Company)">Staten Island Yacht Sales</a> representing the buyer and Bill Bowers of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2578" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="26 North Yachts (Company)">26 North Yachts</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/179466/image/large-8fe8714f44db9274f2afb057add7c29a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/179466"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208027/image/large-8404c35ce80fef74eae44767b3b9ef00.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208027"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194537/image/large-3b8e0cf6d988ebde96253762af352e78.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194537">The motor yacht was delivered in 1999 and is the seventieth-largest built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2631" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Broward Shipyard (Company)">Broward</a>. She &nbsp;features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/488" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Broward Marine (Company)">Broward Marine</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/488" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Broward Marine (Company)">Broward Marine</a>. Up to eight guests are accommodated onboard the superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Three Kings31.39m (102'12&quot;)Broward Marine1999">Three Kings</a>, and she also has accommodation for four crew members, including the captain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194530/image/large-a76d649f09cbb7eb618480f9b2be4399.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194530"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194529/image/large-47298ae68296d2e4829d457072a6c847.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194529">The motor yacht has an aluminium hull and aluminium superstructure. She is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1497" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Detroit Diesel (Company)">Detroit Diesel</a> engines, which give her a cruising speed of 15 knots and a top speed of 20 knots. The yacht carries 32,627 litres of fuel onboard, and 4,164 litres of water.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194527/image/large-01ac63caba1e926af68ceb47c8bc4ff8.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194527">Her last known asking price was $1,599,000.&nbsp;

31m Broward motor yacht Three Kings sold

31.39-metre Broward motor yacht Three Kings has sold with Staten Island Yacht Sales representing the buyer and 26 North Yachts representing the seller

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a> has announced the appointment of George Whitehouse as Business Development Director at their global headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273029/image/large-2f7927992266e1459efc765477101bac.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273029">George Whitehouse joins the company with a wealth of information and over 35 years of experience in the superyacht industry. Throughout his career he has worked as a captain for superyachts between 50 and 73-metres, as well as a Business Development Director at some of the most renowned shipyards.George has demonstrated his commitment to the industry through his roles at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/243" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rybovich Shipyards (Company)">Rybovich Marina &amp; Shipyard</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1868" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Savannah Yacht Center (Company)">Savannah Yacht Center</a> and his involvement with the redesign of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2067" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lauderdale Marine Center (Company)">Lauderdale Marine Center</a>."I am thrilled to join <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>," said Whitehouse. "With my experience and the exceptional team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">N&amp;J</a>, we will unlock the full potential of our organisation and elevate the positioning of big boats in the market."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219126/image/large-206b550a22422538d353d3e1d1b64044.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219126">As the new Business Development Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>, George will collaborate with all of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>’s Commercial Divisions. His role will involve driving business and focus on delivering outstanding results for clients, while leveraging his expertise in handling large vessels and optimising operational processes."Having George join the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a> team is an exciting moment for us. His wealth of experience and expertise in the superyacht industry will undoubtedly elevate our capabilities and strengthen our position as a leader in the market," concluded Daniel Ziriakus, President and COO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>.

Northrop & Johnson appoints new Business Development Director

Northrop & Johnson has announced the appointment of George Whitehouse as Business Development Director.

George Whitehouse joins Northrop & Johnson as Business Development Director

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272814/image/large-7b3f52ce727ebe868996d1fe5d49078d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272814">Spotted last week docked in the Port of Málaga, Spain, is the 45.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/40" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Hakvoort Shipyard (Company)">Hakvoort</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Milele45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2023">Milele</a>. Previously known during her build as Project Adur, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Milele45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2023">Milele</a> was launched in May 2022 by the Monnickendam-based shipyard in the Netherlands. With a volume of 499 GT, she features interior and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a>, while her naval architecture comes from the boards of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/460" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Oossanen Naval Architects (Company)">Van Oossanen Naval Architects</a>. Onboard, her main feature is her floor-to-ceiling wrap-around windows on both aft decks, offering panoramic views from the main deck saloon and plenty of natural light. Entirely constructed out of aluminium, the fast-displacement yacht can reach speeds of up to 26.5 knots and cruise comfortably at 12 knots.

Hakvoort superyacht Milele in Málaga

The 45m superyacht Milele, built by Hakvoort, is seen here docked in the Port of Málaga, Spain.

The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/176" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta - 2023">Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2023</a> officially kicks off in Porto Cervo today, 6th June 2023, with the Captains' briefing followed by a welcome cocktail for participants on the rooftop terrace of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (Company)">Yacht Club Costa Smeralda</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/229376/image/large-aba5ff01196e691acc17d974971205b1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/229376">The regatta will be accompanied once again by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> Rendezvous, and run by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (Company)">Yacht Club Costa Smeralda</a>, alongside the title sponsor Giorgio Armani. The 17th edition of the event will conclude on the 10th June. Twelve superyachts are currently moored in Porto Cervo marina, a fleet which from tomorrow will be sailing the waters of the Costa Smeralda and weaving through the islands of the La Maddalena archipelago, providing a unique backdrop to the racing.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57769" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachts attending the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2023 (2023-06-05 17:30:00 +0200)">Yachts attending the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2023</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227719/image/large-79ba94574a5e14f23f8e077957aac6b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227719">The fleet has been split into two divisions, Superyacht and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a>. The Rendezvous is a key part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/176" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta - 2023">Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2023</a> and sees owners and family competing in corinthian races, concluding with a sociable meet-up and dockside events. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/229379/image/large-cea83b86c27ba776c36b132d65464510.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/229379">Among the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> yachts, the SW105 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10474" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SØRVIND34.59m (113'6&quot;)Southern Wind2022">Sørvind</a>, whose name means "south wind", will be attending the event for the first time. Returning to the Rendezvous are yachts such as the SW102 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5985" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Egiwave31.78m (104'3&quot;)Southern Wind2015">Egiwave</a>, the SW100 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4276" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Freebird30.25m (99'3&quot;)Southern Wind2011">Freebird</a>, and the most competitive vessel in the fleet, the SW94 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6568" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aragon28.64m (93'12&quot;)Southern Wind2012">Aragon</a>.The Superyacht division is in turn divided into 'Combined Performance &amp; Cruising Class' and ‘Superyacht Cruising Class’, reserved for superyachts in accordance with the regulations of the Superyacht Racing Association. The winner of this class will be awarded the prestigious Silver Jubilee Cup. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/229263/image/large-dea1766703f97de872f8b3033d9ee0ff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/229263">Racing will take place over four days, through Saturday 10th June, with the size of the participating vessels meaning there will be a particular focus on safety. The Superyacht Division will have staggered starts every two to three minutes for this purpose. The courses, as always, will use the islands of the archipelago of La Maddalena as natural marks. As for the classic floating buoys used for the start, offset and finish line marks, organiser the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (Company)">YCCS</a> will use MarkSetBot robotic buoys, which hold their position thanks to an electric motor teamed with a GPS system, with no need for anchors on the seabed.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/229378/image/large-dd64f1f46967cdc7810d78641fcbaea6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/229378">The top-level fleet includes returning participants such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5680" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pattoo33.0m (108'3&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2016">Pattoo</a>, a 33-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4373" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design (Company)">Malcolm McKeon</a> design which claimed victory in Porto Cervo in 2021 under the name Missy, as well as the modern <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic</a> 108 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4749" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="WinWin33.04m (108'5&quot;)Baltic Yachts2014">Win Win</a>, a 2022 participant, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4020" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Inoui33.4m (109'7&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2013">Inoui</a>, designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/53" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Philippe Briand Ltd. (Company)">Philippe Briand</a> for Switzerland's Marco Vogele, an owner who never misses the Superyacht Regatta. The Wallycento <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V30.48m (100'0&quot;)Wally2017">V</a> will undoubtedly attract attention thanks to its aesthetic lines and technology - designed by Mark Mills with interiors by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4640" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pininfarina (Company)">Pininfarina</a> and built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4656" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Persico Marine (Company)">Persico Marine</a>.&nbsp;“The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/176" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system" target="_blank">Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta</a> opens our international sporting season, and I want to extend the warmest of welcomes to the owners and crews, many of whom return to Porto Cervo every year. Thanks to them and to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> for showing their appreciation for our event. And special thanks must obviously go to Giorgio Armani, for choosing the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (Company)">YCCS</a> and uniting his name with the Superyacht Regatta. Fair winds to everyone!” commented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (Company)">YCCS</a> Commodore Michael Illbruck. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/229454/image/large-97ab5de5db02f4d908ca88fc825cf786.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/229454">The programme back on land will see the Giorgio Armani Owners' Dinner held on the evening of 7th June, without doubt the most glamorous and exclusive moment of the week, while the Farewell Party taking place on Friday 9th is also not to be missed, and is open to all the crews. &nbsp;The forecast for tomorrow indicates light winds, which are set to strengthen in the following days. The first starting signal is expected to sound at 11.30 a.m. for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> fleet, followed by the Superyacht division at 12 midday.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/229452/image/large-7f6d1fcb4614897f4cca0cf579725d46.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/229452">SuperYacht Times' Editor in Chief, Francesca Webster, is attending this week's event and will be on site to update on the latest news throughout the regatta.&nbsp;

Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2023

The Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2023 has begun, with the 17th edition featuring the Southern Wind Rendezvous.

The Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta returns with SW Rendezvous

Italy-based yacht builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Overmarine Group SPA (Company)">Overmarine</a> has announced the launch of the first hull in the Mangusta Oceano 39 series. The 39.2-metre motor yacht was launched in Italy, with her owner, the Magusta team and all the workers involved with her construction in attendance. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273018/image/large-1965135db3f79bb6c72a988df2926bb4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273018">The Mangusta Oceano 39 yacht has been developed and engineered by the shipyard’s engineering department, in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3025" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mancini Yacht Design (Company)">Alberto Mancini</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1365" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Verme Projects (Company)">Studio Verme</a>. &nbsp;The tri-deck yacht combines design and technology to create a strong identity in line with the Mangusta DNA.“We are so proud to see the first unit of this innovative new model in the water. The Mangusta Oceano 39 is a new three-decker characterised by huge glazed surfaces, where supporting structures and bulwarks have, conversely, been minimised, so as to offer the closest possible contact with the sea", explained Maurizio Balducci, CEO of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Overmarine Group SPA (Company)">Overmarine Group</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/188409/image/large-dc6a18da7acaddc5482881a066708d14.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/188409">The Mangusta Oceano 39 yacht is described by the shipyard as “a modern villa on the sea,” and is characterised by her extensive and wide glass surfaces. She features a high volume normally found on larger yachts, with her interior design penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Overmarine Group SPA (Company)">Overmarine</a>'s technical department, alongside her owner.The first hull in the Mangusta Oceano 39 yacht series boasts floor-to-ceiling windows of her main and upper decks, which can be opened to seamlessly blend her interior and exterior spaces.&nbsp;Her aft area includes foldable terraces to provide direct access with the water, as well as providing guests with total relaxation in utmost privacy. Like other Mangusta models, the Mangusta Oceano 39 features a glass-bottomed infinity pool on her upper deck, which creates mesmerising water reflections into her master stateroom.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/188410/image/large-eca8d66fba6f15e3739348ffbc840a87.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/188410">In terms of accommodation, the Mangusta Oceano 39 yacht has a five stateroom layout, with her master suite situated on the main deck with a fully-automated balcony. Remaining guest accommodations include four staterooms on the lower deck with ensuite bathrooms.Performance-wise, the Mangusta Oceano 39 yacht 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> 12V 1,700 horsepower engines, which deliver her with a top speed of 16 knots, a cruising speed of 12 knots and a range of 2,600 nautical miles.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273017/image/large-3a9dfdba7620dc0cb60ddb5810ade0f8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273017">The Mangusta Oceano 39 series yacht is also with fully-customisable interiors and 2,600 horsepower engines, which provide her with a top speed of 20 knots and a cruising speed of 18 knots.The next unit available for sale in the Mangusta Oceano 39 series will be hull three, with an expected delivery date of November 2024.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/188421/image/large-38489f99eb5cd94c9aced23fdb3c6fdb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/188421">

39m Mangusta Oceano 39 yacht launched

The first hull in the Mangusta Oceano 39 yacht series was launched in Italy. 

First 39m Mangusta Oceano 39 motor yacht launched

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207899/image/large-f6c61df52163211dd2da766676915a26.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207899">The 46.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5546" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Giaola-Lu46.8m (153'7&quot;)Bilgin Yachts2016">Giaola-Lu</a> has been sold with Arne Ploch from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> representing the buyer and Hans van Doornmalen and Antonio Yturbe of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston&nbsp;</a>representing the seller.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/24087/image/large-1f34bafc4eeea201b217ae946efe243f.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24087"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/24085/image/large-5b488b09cfd708cae121a3f8d81e8fbc.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24085">The motor yacht was delivered in 2016 and is the 15th largest yacht built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a>. She features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2 Yacht Design</a>, while her interior was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2 Yacht Design</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4305" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unique Yacht Design (Company)">Unique Yacht Design</a>. Up to 16 guests can be accommodated onboard the superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5546" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Giaola-Lu46.8m (153'7&quot;)Bilgin Yachts2016">Giaola-Lu</a>, and she also has accommodation for 10 crew members, including the captain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207892/image/large-bd6df747c79263573f78fd25bdef63c0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207892"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/24083/image/large-c2b655d6ae1296d35fa8459f0818e9fe.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24083">The motor yacht has a steel hull and aluminium superstructure. She 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 Inc</a> engines, which give her a cruising speed of 12 knots and a top speed of 17 knots. The yacht carries 64,600 litres of fuel onboard, and 12,300 litres of water.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/23990/image/large-4cf3d3d63917fe0d77d6da72a3c44c19.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23990"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/23989/image/large-4e60735bcf6a783f3c9473a8c5c2f07a.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23989">Her last known asking price was €17,200,000.

47m Bilgin motor yacht sold

The 46.8-metre Bilgin motor yacht Giaola-Lu has been sold with Camper & Nicholsons representing the buyer and Edmiston representing the seller

47m Bilgin motor yacht Giaola-Lu sold

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4509" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYacht Times (Company)">SuperYacht Times</a> Founder Merijn de Waard sits down with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> CEO Arthur Brouwer, to find out about what this world renowned shipyard is planning for the future. The pair discuss how <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> intends to move toward even more sustainable solutions, with the launch of the new comprehensive sustainability programme, Blue NauTech, with the Hybrid series already well established, it has now invested in the adaptation of the engine room of every new-build vessel for the hybrid propulsion package. This is a major step forward in the yard’s move toward sustainable practices, offering clients the option of hybrid propulsion without the need for retrofitting its systems. The discussion will also touch on whether or not the yard will be making the move to even larger vessels and Brouwer’s view of the current boom in the superyacht new-build market.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206827/image/large-574c79e6841100a40e8c95c79d51c8cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206827">How has&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>&nbsp;responded to the current high demand in the market?The current wave of demand in the market that began in Q3 of 2020 and continued strong into Q4 has resulted in an enormous surge in the market in the superyacht sector and we are still seeing an increased appetite for yachts. There has been huge interest in speculation builds because there is more demand than ever from owners who own yachts now or in the near future. As a result, we have sold our stock of speculation builds for 2021 and 2022 and now our next speculative projects won't come onto the market until after the summer of 2023. In terms of my predictions for this practice, I think we can expect a continuation of this strength with a moderate cooling. At the same time there have been more newcomers to the market and we can certainly see potential to pursue historic build programmes with speculation builds. There may also be the possibility for us to sell to buyers earlier than we have in the past.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/23616/image/large-3039573da5de76e8cf3e55a6e281ea6b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23616">Do you also intend to scale up your production?The shipyard is currently operating at maximum capacity, which is where we want to be – we currently have 13 yachts in-build and in the past year we have had as many as 15 yachts in-build at one time. Heesen has already seen tremendous growth over the last few years with the new 85-metre dry dock – so it is not about scaling up production, our aim is to always be working at or near capacity to deliver the maximum amount of yachts we can produce. Quality not quantity!With&nbsp;Sparta, Cosmos, Falcon and Skyfall all currently in-build, it appears that Heesen is focusing on the 60+ metre market, can you tell me more about the motivations for this?Our business model of custom build yachts between 60-80-metres has been extremely successful and demand has increased over the last two years for yachts of that scale. As the capacity becomes available for increasingly large yachts we will continue to have discussions with clients about this with regard to new and ongoing projects.&nbsp;For those who want truly bespoke yachts, our clients are look within this size range rather than in the 90-plus metre range. Part of this may also be to do with our strong reputation when it comes to yachts in this range and we have invested in more marketing within the custom division. This is certainly one of Heesen’s greatest strengths and the increase we have seen is a demonstration of that.&nbsp;It is important to keep in mind that our business model is based on three pillars, the first being speculation builds, the second being platform yachts, which continues to be very successful, and third is the custom division. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/23618/image/large-385e6794b6db34c29fbff224d5e7bf76.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23618">The new speculation Project Akira with her 57-metres in length and volume of 780 GT is also a big step up from the previous fast aluminium yachts (50-metre / 499 GT). What are your expectations of this project?&nbsp;We have capacity to build two 60-plus metre yachts at once, alongside a large number of 57-metre and 55-metre yachts, which is the capacity of most of our sheds. In our business model, if we have the capacity to build a 55-metre or 57-metre, we will do so because it uses the capacity of the yard more sensibly. This also helps us to become more dominant in the segments that we move within. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200330/image/large-9b7990e05b4de1fd19c5841f9af039ea.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200330">Nevertheless, we will stay in the 500 GT class and we have expanded the capacity in the last year for build slots of the 55-metre and we have added the 57-metre aluminium. Our portfolio is complete and it optimises our production and our offering to clients moving from 50-metre aluminium toward the 57-metre aluminium. The step in financial terms between a 50-metre and a 60-metre is much greater than between a 50-metre and a 57-metre, which can be more attractive to our clients.The 57-metre aluminium is a fantastic yacht, not only in its lines, but in her capacity and her arrangement, it is a very interesting yacht for a lot of the market.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200328/image/large-63ae9b4f2d0fb654c520448ee7730bb9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200328">With&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>’s hybrid models, you seem to be moving toward more sustainable practices, how do you see this developing and will you be looking toward other alternative propulsions?Of course. Hydrogen powered yachts are the ultimate goal, but we must be realistic. In this industry we are dependent on the suppliers who build the engine packages. We are not in a position to design and build hydrogen propulsion systems, but we can assist those who do by supporting the movement and accommodating them as they develop.&nbsp;Looking at what we can do now, we have moved toward hybrid propulsion yachts on speculation. Our engine rooms have now been modified and every engine room can be adapted for hybrid propulsion, which has been a huge investment toward more sustainable solutions.&nbsp;We see sustainability as an entire package. First of all, the best way to gain efficiency and therefore increase sustainability is through the hull design, which we have been focusing on for a long time. Our new 50-metre semi-displacement is the perfect example, the yacht has a highly optimised hull, which is incredibly sleek and more like an automotive. The engine package is smaller and yet we can achieve even higher speeds due to the design and efficiency of the Fast Displacement Hull Form, which has been proven to be 30% more effective.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/202512/image/large-97aadae9df57f8594de55d447c293d28.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/202512">The 57m X-Venture project that&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>&nbsp;developed with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch Design</a>&nbsp;is one of the coolest explorer yacht projects. Has there been a lot of interest in this project and do you think we will see it build at some point in the future?We have very concrete requests within the explorer division. The market is still small for this type of vessel – when we do sell X-Venture we expect that she will be in a modified form. This is purely because the clients seeking this type of vessel are generally experienced yachtsmen who demand specific requirements from their yacht, meaning that it would not be a speculative project.&nbsp;What is the next step for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, can we expect to see more of the Steel series in the future?We are bringing to the market an evolution of the 55 Steel superstructure and these gradual modifications continue to follow the market trends. We are not looking at a 57 Steel while the 57 Aluminium Akira is our current focus, particularly as we only have so many sheds to fill. We do not build 20 of the same yacht, it is part of our mentality to evolve our yachts and continue to innovate our successful models.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/103967/image/large-155aa17731669b54c0ad1acde63aa93c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/103967">Finally, where do you see the customer demand coming from?Over the first half of 2021 we saw most interest coming from the US, but Europe is coming back very strong and the Middle East is also an evolving market, with more demand than ever before. There is some demand from South America as well, though Asia is still a very quiet market for us.

Interview with Heesen CEO on the future of the shipyard

SYT interviews to Arthur brouwer, CEO of Heesen about plans for the future, scaling up and sustainability.

Monaco Yacht Show exclusive: The three pillars of Heesen’s success with CEO Arthur Brouwer

A momentous occasion took place last week in Oss, the Netherlands, as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Heesen Yachts</a> launched its all-new 80.07-metre superyacht, project <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Cosmos</a> – the shipbuilder’s longest and fastest yacht to date. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212128/image/large-235fccb16ca42f1a3697b8c3b2416ff3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212128">“Today, we are celebrating the launch of a unique yacht,” said Arthur Brouwer, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Heesen</a>. “Unique not only for our shipyard, as she is the largest we have ever taken on and represents the pinnacle of our achievements to date. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Cosmos</a> is also unique in the industry - the largest and fastest aluminium yacht in her class ever built.”An esteemed lineup of engineers and designers stepped up to the challenge to build a yacht that breaks all limits. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Heesen</a> managed her construction, and the brand’s rich heritage of state-of-the-art Dutch craftsmanship is steeped into this vessel’s DNA. As the firm itself has said, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Cosmos</a> is a daring project which stretches the imagination – and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Heesen</a> has gone above and beyond to launch her, working tirelessly under the shadow of a pandemic. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212129/image/large-2041462d14357b45a2ba43b596bc0894.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212129">It was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch Design</a> who styled her exterior and penned sporty sophistication at every stroke. She has a timeless, sinewy profile that is further accentuated by extensive use of glass. “The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch</a> vision for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Cosmos</a> was to retain <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Heesen</a>’s sporty DNA but blend it with an innovative, futuristic spin. Curved glass forms smooth, sculpted shapes, creating a feeling of slick, contemporary charm,” said Jim Dixon, Director of Yachts and Aviation at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch Design</a>.&nbsp;Meanwhile, James Russell, an Associate of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch Design</a> commented, “The brief stressed that she had to have a strong and unique signature whilst retaining the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Heesen</a> DNA that we all know and love. The emphasis was on creating a fast looking yacht that sits elegantly on the water, a feat that has been cleverly achieved through the use of sculptural, curved forms and perfectly balanced proportions.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212126/image/large-a3e69074495f86157a9c2919ec2116f5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212126">Project <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Cosmos</a> features cascading decks to aft that provide her owner and guests ample opportunities for alfresco living. She has a generous beach club with its additional side and stern platforms, heaps of dining options, and a glass-bottomed swimming pool located on her sun deck. Her most striking feature though is her bow, which boasts a voluminous deck that serves as a helipad. It also double-downs as an outdoor screen area when guests want to watch an evening movie under the stars.&nbsp;<ul><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/51673" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="In Pictures: Heesen’s 80m flagship yacht Cosmos under construction (2020-08-18 11:00:00 +0200)">In Pictures: Heesen’s 80m flagship yacht Cosmos under construction</a></li><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/51538" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cosmos: Behind the scenes of Heesen's biggest superyacht construction (2020-07-16 17:00:00 +0200)">Cosmos: Behind the scenes of Heesen's biggest superyacht construction</a></li></ul>Her interior was curated by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/926" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design (Company)">Sinot Yacht Architecture &amp; Design</a> who opted for a light and breezy palette throughout, to give future guests a feeling of home-from-home. One of her notable features is a backlit onyx bar, where guests can socialise while remaining close to the water. As there is such a synergy between the size, weight, and performance of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Cosmos</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/926" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design (Company)">Sinot</a> was in constant consultation with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Heesen</a>’s in-house engineers to ensure that her weight harmony was always met.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212119/image/large-d4a2afa906f64581df3026d3fecf307f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212119">In spite of her size, project <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Cosmos</a> is incredibly nimble – this is not just thanks to her 4 MTU engines, either. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/460" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Oossanen Naval Architects (Company)">Van Oossanen</a>, who took charge of her naval architecture, developed an iteration of the Fast Displacement Hull Form designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/460" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Oossanen Naval Architects (Company)">van Oossanen</a> to be both lightweight and with a low drag. Bolstering this, and to ensure sufficient longitudinal strength, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Heesen</a> designed and patented an intricate, full-length structural reinforcement system.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212122/image/large-c04f3e6ef287a470c1a7051ca7d76987.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212122"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212120/image/large-533a5f6b334580060f873e016a47052e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212120">Project <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Cosmos</a>, or <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galactica80.07m (262'8&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Galactica</a> as she has since been renamed, will remain at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> for commissioning before undergoing sea trials in the North Sea this coming February. Her delivery date is penned in for April 2022.

Heesen’s project Cosmos launched

A momentous occasion took place last week as Heesen launched project Cosmos – the shipbuilder’s longest and fastest yacht to date. 

Project Cosmos undergoes technical launch from Heesen's facilities in Oss 

Construction on the 60-metre superyacht Project SkyFall, also known as YN19959, is well underway at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen Yachts</a>’ facility in Oss, the Netherlands. The superyacht is on track for her delivery in 2023.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206343/image/large-dd9787d34a387069a4e913ac505a32dc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206343">Recently, her builders installed her main engines and hoisted her superstructure into place. The operation lasted several days and involved meticulous planning and precision. Project SkyFall will remain at the Oss facility to undergo outfitting, until she is launched and sent for sea trials in spring 2023.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206340/image/large-f7511fdf9a7fe48ba3354820bd44a16a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206340"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206341/image/large-dd10a3e7dc7a5a0a59d0d8b3035426a8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206341">Project SkyFall is built to a design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a>, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/460" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Oossanen Naval Architects (Company)">Van Oossanen Naval Architects</a> has completed her naval architecture with its Fast Displacement Hull Form. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen Yachts</a> describes the superyacht as “a sport fisherman in yacht disguise” and it is equipped with a cockpit, fighting chair and storage for 40 fishing rods. Aesthetically, she sports sleek exterior lines and will be finished with a black superstructure band and hardtop, ‘Desert Tan’ hull, and finished with red-orange accent stripes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/204935/image/large-e3696e7b862f4068f32843fb9b1b1a16.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/204935"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206346/image/large-0b2b2c5d5581abe8ccea038963a6cd81.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206346">Known as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>’s “most powerful yacht to date”, she is equipped with four <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> 20V 4000 engines with a combined 22,000 horsepower. She can reach a top speed of 37 knots in light load conditions.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206329/image/large-cdbd01bb2e19815ac59a7564bf27da0d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206329">The 900 GT superyacht features an interior designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/168" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Harrison Eidsgaard (Company)">Harrison Eidsgaard</a>. SkyFall hosts as many as 10 guests across five staterooms, including a dedicated owner’s suite on the bridge deck aft complete with a stateroom, private terrace, whirlpool spa and lounge. All remaining staterooms are located on the lower deck. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206332/image/large-0ab9e5ab161b58b63af02e161d152bf2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206332">Her main deck is home to a lounge and an alfresco dining area situated on her aft deck. Forward, a media room with a cinema and games table is found.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206337/image/large-2a7de40cef307b21d54a3ecdcf02d893.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206337">She sports a spacious tender garage situated at her stern, adjacent to her beach club, which will feature a custom tender built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vanquish Yachts (Company)">Vanquish</a> and designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/234" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Guido de Groot Design (Company)">Guido de Groot</a>, intended to “mirror the mothership down to the last brushstroke.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206342/image/large-68b850fc17c402f461bf79605daa8c10.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206342">

Heesen Yachts continues construction on 60m superyacht Project SkyFall

Construction on Heesen’s “most powerful yacht to date” the 60m superyacht Project SkyFall is well underway.

Long Read

The custom conundrum with Heesen CEO Arthur Brouwer