Dutch shipyard Balk have reported on a busy period for their refit sector, having just completed the refit of the 46.20 metre Pioneer (ex. Dione Sky). The yacht recently changed hands, and her new owner decided on a new name for the yacht while being refitted at the yard. Pioneer is now getting ready to cross the Atlantic where she will be cruising the winter season in the Caribbean.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157319/image/large-9736a07f6d4fe81c5eecf95baf8e96bc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157319">Another exciting development is the welcoming of the 44.9 metre Abeking &amp; Rasmussen Bravado into Balk’s main shed yesterday. She is currently at the yard to receive a complete interior and exterior makeover. More details on the project will follow soon.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157320/image/large-efbae9402bd2896f3f94f8b4d43246af.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157320">In addition to this, the yard has their hands full with other refit projects, some of which are scheduled to continue until June, ready for the 2016 summer cruising season.Read our in depth report on Balk shipyards <a href="#managed-by-application" target="_blank" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/44936">here</a>.By Charl van Rooy

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Busy winter period ahead for Balk shipyard  

Netherlands-based marine electrical companies <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/317" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alewijnse (Company)">Alewijnse</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7180" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tijssen Elektro (Company)">Tijssen Elektro</a> have joined forces to provide further services to the maritime community. From 1 June 2023, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7180" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tijssen Elektro (Company)">Tijssen</a> will officially fall under the umbrella of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/317" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alewijnse (Company)">Alewijnse</a> Group. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272578/image/large-9ac400099a30d4992090ad355ee17e18.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272578">The merger will bring the two companies together for the delivery of advanced electrical system integration systems for all types of yachts above 30-metres. The shared vision between <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/317" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alewijnse (Company)">Alewijnse</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7180" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tijssen Elektro (Company)">Tijssen Elektro</a> allows the companies to expand on their portfolios while meeting the needs of those within the industry.&nbsp;"Our two families are uniting to deliver the best solutions for the yachting industry,” explained Gert Bravenboer, CEO at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/317" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alewijnse (Company)">Alewijnse</a>. “Fully complementary to each other, we are uniquely positioned to create value for existing and new customers. Together, we will be the go-to technology partner on all aspects of automation, electrification and digitalisation. From consulting, engineering and installation to commissioning, service and maintenance, it's a perfect fit."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272577/image/large-150d4282ba9b14d3509de682379e56c2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272577">The merger will represent a new chapter in history for both <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/317" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alewijnse (Company)">Alewijnse</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7180" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tijssen Elektro (Company)">Tijssen Elektro</a>. This will benefit not only both companies, but also the employees, customers and shareholders. This will allow them to provide even more innovative solutions and expand the complexity of their projects.“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/317" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alewijnse (Company)">Alewijnse</a> is the best choice because the chemistry between the companies means we speak the same language and complement each other. The synergy is great because we stop where Alewijnse starts. Our combined portfolio will broaden all at once to cover yachts from 30 right up to 130 metres. Together, we form a one-stop-shop for every kind of yacht. That way we can completely unburden our customers," added Pedro Kappen, owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7180" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tijssen Elektro (Company)">Tijssen Elektro</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272579/image/large-1444065a001052c048600aeb12470fcf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272579">

Electrical services companies Alewijnse and Tijssen Elektro merge

Alewijnse and Tijssen Elektro have joined forces to provide further services to the maritime community.

Alewijnse and Tijssen Elektro merge to strengthen yacht electrical services

A new yacht brokerage firm, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6982" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Karma Yachting (Company)">Karma Yachting</a>, has been founded by Mario Cicognani and Karin Paggi, professionals with a cumulative experience of 32 years in the purchase, sale, and construction of yachts ranging from 30 to 60 meters. The two brokers have joined forces to offer clients 'expertise, reliability, and a well-established network of industry experts'. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272056/image/large-2b4ec4d37307b89e90bb6de5ad3616ee.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272056">As Cicognani says, "Whether it involves a new build, purchasing, or selling superyachts, we are committed to providing a fully customised service that ensures flawless, fast, easy, and transparent processes. We place great importance on discretion and attentively listening to individual needs in order to meet our customers' requirements, while also ensuring a pleasant and stimulating customer experience."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272057/image/large-dab6546dfb423f5d944a6565997e80c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272057"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6982" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Karma Yachting (Company)">Karma Yachting</a> will offer its clients a boutique brokerage approach. As Paggi emphasises, "We serve as a constant point of reference and have established long-standing relationships with our customers based on trust. At <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6982" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Karma Yachting (Company)">Karma Yachting</a>, clients are free to choose their degree of participation and involvement in the project at any time. We can offer our clients an extensive list of professionals to choose from, including lawyers, designers, surveyors, and management companies, based on their preferences, experience, and sensitivity. By listening to their wishes and expectations, we deliver a tailor-made service and always recommend the best possible solution."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272055/image/large-f90b86a842173a5db10923173040de7a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272055">The name <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6982" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Karma Yachting (Company)">Karma Yachting</a>, in addition to being an amalgamation of the founders' names, also represents their philosophy of life, both in private and professional realms: to act in a correct and ethical manner.

Karma Yachting brokerage firm founded

A new yacht brokerage firm Karma Yachting has been founded by two Italian brokers. 

New yacht brokerage firm Karma Yachting has been launched

The Australian refit and maintenance yard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5437" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Boat Works (Company)">The Boat Works</a> has expanded its capacity with a new 90-tonne travel lift. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5437" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Boat Works (Company)">The Boat Works</a> now has five machines operating over both yards, lifting every type of vessel up to 300-tonnes. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271396/image/large-262e69762e3293cdea5ebb23c818e1a5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271396">“To keep pace with demand, we decided to invest in this variable width, all-wheel drive machine,” &nbsp;explained <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5437" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Boat Works (Company)">The Boat Works</a> owner, Tony Longhurst. “It has an adjustable beam width narrowing the vessels footprint from 8 metres down to 5.5 metres allowing &nbsp;the team to maximise the vessel set down footprint. This is brilliant for boat storage as we can go &nbsp;narrow for the narrower runways and use it for packing boats in tight spots.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271403/image/large-7b2678db6b2f3538e335970d91427a01.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271403">Built in Italy, the machine boasts unique Dynamic Steering Control (DSC), which its manufacturer defines as “allowing seamless transfer between 4 modes with infinite adjustment between each to allow &nbsp;progressive adjustment of the radius of rotation”. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271400/image/large-ef3dbdd75e8fce9694a90fd655441dc6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271400">DSC is an innovative steering management system developed by Boat Lift. This system allows an operator to linearly move the axis of rotation in any position between the axis of the front wheels and the rear wheels. This makes it possible to significantly reduce the manoeuvring space required for the handling and storage of boats. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271399/image/large-b8c8cfd255ccd65151a343b3828635b2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271399">The new 90-tonne Boat Lift is currently undergoing commissioning and will be ready to haul-out boats in June 2023. “The new Boat Lift gives us more flexibility, makes us more efficient and gives owners more &nbsp;options,” said Tony Longhurst. “We can lift wide multihulls and monohulls, and we can lift a lot more boats now. This new 90-tonne machine takes our service capability to a new level!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271397/image/large-12673dafa039aa1625d3ffaae6921e1d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271397">

The Boat Works welcome 90-tonne travel lift

Australian refit yard The Boat Works has welcomed a new 90-tonne travel lift from Italy. 

Australia's The Boat Works expands capacity with new 90-tonne travel lift

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3256" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rivergate Marina & Shipyard (Company)">Rivergate Marina &amp; Shipyard</a>, based on the Brisbane River in Australia, is due to go onto the market in order to facilitate its next stage of development. The shipyard and marina, which is at this time a family owned business, was founded in 2006 and has gained an international reputation for its services and facilities. It has also been a pivotal destination for the growth of the Australian and Pacific superyacht industry. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263278/image/large-831c2f4566a287e7110c038ff50d0d6f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263278"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3256" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rivergate Marina & Shipyard (Company)">Rivergate</a> Director Tom Hill commented, “This has been a difficult decision for our family-owned business, but we believe the time is right for a new owner to continue our work and oversee the next exciting phase of the Rivergate story.”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57255" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Investment, expansion and the rise in the Australian superyacht market: Director Tom Hill on Rivergate Marina (2023-03-29 16:00:00 +0200)">Investment, expansion and the rise in the Australian superyacht market: Director Tom Hill on Rivergate Marina</a> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224514/image/large-e191b1448da2cf7d76e308e1624c2fe5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224514"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3256" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rivergate Marina & Shipyard (Company)">Rivergate</a>’s facilities include 300-tonne and 75-tonne travel lifts, a 55-metre refit shed, hardstand, berthing for vessels up to 90 metres, 24-hour fuel wharf and more than 20 world-class marine trades on site. It features a 105-berth marina with all-tide deepwater access and 24-hour refuelling.Over recent years the shipyard has announced a number of major expansion plans, securing approval for $200 million AUD expansion in 2022. Plans include a state-of-the-art 3,000-tonne ship lift, SPMT transfer system, additional open hardstand space, refit sheds and support building, and in-water service berths suitable for a wide range of superyachts, commercial and Defence vessels.&nbsp;Hill added, “Australia is ideally placed to take more advantage of the buoyant global superyacht market, which &nbsp;has seen substantial pent-up demand to visit our region if there was more capability to service &nbsp;vessels over 50 metres,” Mr Hill said. &nbsp;“Any future expansion of Rivergate would also be excellent timing for the 2032 Olympic and &nbsp;Paralympic Games to be held in Brisbane, with industry expectations that the event will attract &nbsp;around 200 superyachts.” Mr Hill said Rivergate was known not only for the expertise and meticulousness of the tradespeople &nbsp;that refit and repair superyachts, but a level of customer service second to none. &nbsp;“With our strong global brand, highly experienced management team and staff in place and track &nbsp;record of successfully servicing hundreds of superyachts and commercial vessels over the past 17 &nbsp;years, Rivergate represents a rare market opportunity,” he said.

Rivergate Marina and Shipyard for sale

Rivergate Marina and Shipyard seeks new owner. 

Rivergate Marina and Shipyard seeks new owner

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a> partner and long-term friend of the company Mario Veloná has passed away. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270213/image/large-8c17263f0adcfdb613f5767a259ba046.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270213">Mario was a successful yacht Captain before joining forces with fellow Captain Marco Vandoni to create Veloná Yachting in 1997. Veloná Yachting operated for a number of years before it became part of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a> in 2005.Mario continued as a Director and Broker before falling in love with the natural beauty and local culture of Costa Rica where he retired in 2018. An aggressive illness forced Mario to return to the South of France where, in the presence of Ayrton and Alex, he peacefully sailed away on Tuesday, 9th May.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270214/image/large-c71ad4eb56cca87cc0cc66ffb8e0bdbf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270214">“Mario was an expert member of the yachting industry and gifted with a free spirit, genuine interest in people and immense charm. Mario will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by family and friends, his former colleagues at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a> and all who worked with him in the yachting industry,” commented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a>.A service will be held in Nice (Crematorium de la Metropole Nice) on Monday 15th May at 4pm. After that, friends are invited to get together in remembrance of Mario at “La Cambuse” in the Port of Cap D’Ail.

Ocean Independence partner Mario Veloná passes away

Ocean Independence partner and long-term friend of the company Mario Veloná has passed away.

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

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> and Blue World Technologies have joined forces to drive innovation in the field of energy technology, marking a significant milestone for both companies. The strategic collaboration, which was officially announced in April 2023, underlines <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting's</a> commitment to advancing sustainable and future fuel technologies.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270072/image/large-d78446a983817cb1eb4e1056f609e055.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270072">Headquartered in Aalborg, Denmark, Blue World Technologies is a leading developer and manufacturer of high-temperature PEM fuel cells that run on methanol. The company's mission is to introduce energy-efficient and cost-effective methanol fuel cell technology to industries worldwide. It has been working closely with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> as part of the Dutch superyacht builder's energy programme.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting's</a> decision to partner with Blue World Technologies was influenced by the company's next-generation fuel cell technology, which offers higher efficiency and the potential for more energy-efficient vessel operation thanks to the quality of recoverable heat. Additionally, Blue World Technologies' focus on methanol aligns with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting's</a> sustainability vision, which aims to reduce its carbon footprint and explore new ways to safeguard the environment.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/270071/image/large-f6b24d4406d4eecaec079447b99a4dd7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/270071">According to Torben Mørch Sørensen, Marine Sales Director at Blue World Technologies, the collaboration presents a tremendous opportunity for both parties to share knowledge and drive innovation in pursuing a greener maritime industry. The partnership will involve close collaboration between builders and suppliers, with the Blue World Technologies team working closely with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting's</a> Product Design Managers and Engineers toward implementing sustainable solutions in the company's products and projects."We are thrilled to be working with the team at Blue World Technologies," said Haico van Roeden, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting Design</a> and Proposal Engineer. "Our shared ambition and goals align very well, and we look forward to exploring the opportunities this collaboration presents in the coming months." With a focus on sustainability and innovation, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> and Blue World Technologies are poised to impact the yachting industry's future significantly.

Damen Yachting and Blue World Technologies partnership

Damen Yachting and Blue World Technologies have joined forces to drive innovation in the field of energy technology.

Damen Yachting and Blue World Technologies join forces to advance sustainable and fuel technologies

Italy-based yacht builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> has reported a significant improvement in Q1 2023 margins in their latest financial report. The Board of Directors at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti</a> reviewed and approved the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Group</a>’s consolidated financial results for the first quarter of 2023 and reported an order backlog of €1.5 billion.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269914/image/large-f008f2595c26a0e0ddc9ff1c03717d36.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269914">Headquartered in Forlì, Italy, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> reported an order intake of €307.5 million in the first three months of 2023. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Group</a> also saw a 15.4 percent increase in the order backlog compared to 31 December 2022 due to strong demand on international markets.The order backlog is broken down into segments, with made-to-measure yachts responsible for approximately 37.7 percent of the order backlog and equivalent to €549.1 million as of 31 March 2023. Composite yachts reached €489.9 million, or 32.7 percent of the total backlog, superyachts made up 25.7 percent or €384.6 million of the backlog, and other businesses such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a> Sail and the (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti</a> Security Division) FSD made up €72.7 million, or 4.9 percent of the total backlog.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262170/image/large-58ac563f0eedce204ff480d094b86af1.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262170">“The luxury yacht market continues to see strong expansion and, once again, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> shows vision and foresight, as witnessed by the important acquisition of Cantiere San Vitale, in Ravenna, the cornerstone of a future-looking growth strategy,” commented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> CEO, Alberto Galassi.The total revenue for Q1 2023 surpassed €280 million, representing an increase of 9.3 percent compared to Q1 2022. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> attributes this figure to the strong order backlog built in 2022.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260867/image/large-5e5d5c3dcbe40ce54198eb723f80f847.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260867">When this revenue is broken down into geographical locations, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> found that approximately 48.2 percent of the total revenue for Q1 2023 came from Europe, Middle East, and Africa regions (EMEA.) The North America, Central America, and South America regions (AMAS) were responsible for 28.6 percent, while the Asia-Pacific region (APAC) accounted for 11.4 percent of the total revenue.&nbsp;The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> also revealed an increase of 26.6 percent for adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2023 compared to Q1 2022. This improvement has been attributed to a longer waiting and high order backlog which reflects pricing power, a larger presence in segments such as made-to-measure, and the economy of scale in purchasing with a more efficient fixed costs absorption.The overall net profit of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> was reported as €18.6 million in Q1 2023, representing an increase of 42 percent from Q1 2022, with a margin equivalent to 6.6 percent in Q1 2023, representing an increase of 120 basis points when compared to Q1 2022.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243240/image/large-c8d44c405138c49644ebabd8896f5e94.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243240">The huge interest shown by the financial community after the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Group</a>’s first Capital Markets Day and the very positive financial results reported in Q1 2023, are another demonstration of our solidity and confirm once again that our shareholders and our customers were right to place their confidence in us,” concluded Alberto Galassi.

Ferretti Group reports €1.5 billion order backlog for Q1 2023 

The Ferretti Group has reported a significant improvement in Q1 2023 margins in their latest financial report compared to Q1 2022.

Ferretti Group announces €1.5 billion order backlog for Q1 2023 financial report

The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting has approved the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2022. The meeting proposed the allocation of the more than €22 million profit, including the distribution of a dividend of €0.66 per share, gross of withholding tax. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251953/image/large-55cc082ff4a9a8179c905e3cd857a19c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251953">The number of shares entitled to payment will be determined 3 May 2023, with the ex-dividend date on 2 May 2023 and payment on 4 May 2023. The dividend amount for the 2022 financial year is up by 10 percent from 2021 and corresponds to a pay-out of approximately 31 percent of the Group's net profit.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268405/image/large-0fe4b56c7fa5bf4533eb5955ddd1c1c0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268405">During the Shareholders’ Meeting, chaired by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> CEO Massimo Perotti, the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2022 were also presented. These showed Net revenues from the sale of new yachts equal to €740.7 million. This figure is up 26.4 percent compared to 2021’s figure of €585.9 million.&nbsp;The statement also showed that EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) were equal to €129.6 million, up by 37 percent compared to €94.6 million in 2021. The Group Net profit was up by 45.4 percent from 2021 and was equal to €74.2 million, while the net cash position was equal to €100.3 million, up by €61.3 million compared to €39 million as of 31 December 2021.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250520/image/large-0a3fbeca280e8c3933c53ff570e0aa4f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250520">For the third year, the 2022 Consolidated Non-Financial Statement was prepared as a separate report from the financial statements and presented during the Shareholders’ meeting. This is in accordance with the requirements of Italian Legislative Decree 254/2016 and drawn up according to the GRI Universal Standards.The 2022 Consolidated Non-Financial Statement describes all the main activities performed by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> Group in relation to environmental, social, personnel, human rights, and anti-corruption issues through a 360-degree responsible approach that looks at product and process sustainability, human resources, supply chain, and the entire territory.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7146/image/large-1ccb974245f810b85b1716f241cce43b.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7146">The Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting examined the report prepared by the Company’s Board of Directors on the policy regarding remuneration and fees paid. The “First section” of the Report on Remuneration, relating to the remuneration policy for members of administrative bodies, general managers, and managers with strategic responsibilities, was approved. The “Second section” of the report was resolved in a favorable sense.Following the resignation of Directors Marco Viti and Pietro Gussalli Beretta on 26 August 2022 and 14 March 2023, respectively, the Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting reduced the Board of Directors to 10 members, compared to 12 as determined by the Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of 28 April 2022. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/111105/image/large-e1d1a7477975847b6730979de19d203b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/111105">The members of the Board of Directors, which will remain in office up to 31 December 2024, are, therefore, the following: Massimo Perotti, Paolo Olivieri, Ferruccio Rossi, Carla Demaria, Cecilia Maria Perotti, Licia Mattioli, Silvia Merlo, Leonardo Luca Etro, Francesca Culasso and Marco Francesco Mazzù.

Sanlorenzo Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting approves 2022 financial statements

The Sanlorenzo Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting has approved the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2022.

Sanlorenzo reports €740m net revenue from sale of new yachts for 2022

In recent years, the consensus within the superyacht industry has been that ‘biggest is best’, yachts are getting larger every year and superyacht news is dominated by the biggest names on the water. The tiny (by comparison) stars of the yacht construction industry, however, are the yacht’s model counterparts that take pride of place among their paramours and whose builders can hold their own against any of the yachting giants. Take a short walk along the dock at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2022">Monaco Yacht Show</a>, step into the studio of any designer or yacht club, and it is not only the on-water vessels that steal the limelight, it is also the models that represent them. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267544/image/large-04b01483d98697bc4faddb35c1eb3895.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267544">Historically, yacht hull models were used to help owners select their next vessel, and then they were used to commemorate the yacht on the water, displayed in pride of place within the homes of the owner or the club they raced with. While these uses still abound, today shipyards and designers use superyacht models to display their work, unveil new superyacht designs and to record previous models in perpetuity. We spoke with a few of the companies that pioneer within the yacht model industry, and experts shared their thoughts on the value and importance that the models represent.One company whose models become talking points of their own and which never fail to attract the crowds at any yacht show are <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s. The shipyard is known worldwide for its work on future yacht concepts, designed in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lateral Naval Architects (Company)">Lateral Naval Architects</a> and the craftsmen behind these extraordinary models are <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7126" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scale Models Weston (Company)">Scale Models Weston</a>. Based in Colchester, England, the model makers have been collaborating with the shipyard that is at the forefront of cutting-edge yacht design for years. Jason Shearman, Director of the company explained “The details and technology that we incorporate into the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> models always make for an interesting project and the models produced are a stunning replica of their design flair and showcase our skilled craftsmanship to its full extent.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267556/image/large-25ce98ba119ff6169fdeac1b30f6c52f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267556"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7126" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scale Models Weston (Company)">Weston</a> are a boutique organisation, with a permanent four man team, the craftsmen's ranks are bolstered during busy show seasons with freelance model craftsmen. One of the larger fish in the model-making industry is the Italian company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4884" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Model Maker Group (Company)">ModelMakerGroup</a>, and with over 30 craftsmen, the company builds nearly 400 models a year for top industry names across the globe. The sentiment shared by all of the experts that we spoke to is that yacht models have a vital role to play within the wider industry, bringing drawings to life and giving designers, owners and shipyards the opportunity to touch, feel and investigate a design before metal is cut. Giuseppe Capobianco of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4884" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Model Maker Group (Company)">ModelMakerGroup</a> explains, “Most of the yacht’s we model are yet to be presented to the market, meaning that confidentiality is a must. It also means that our workshops are filled with the vessels of the future, and a tour of our studios would give you a real sense of how the industry develops every year.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267545/image/large-12594031a04e3e845fa0752cd34d87d0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267545">While an onlooker may see yacht models as a toy, like a model car, yacht model construction is a painstaking process that takes months to complete and, as Jason touched on, can feature complex technology. Many of the models we see at yacht shows today are malleable, with parts that can be moved, removed, added to, some even including hydraulic features.Jason Shearman of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7126" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scale Models Weston (Company)">Weston</a> added, “Our models provide a focal point for a marketing stand at an exhibition, board room, or as pride of place on the actual vessel. I believe a model superyacht helps to ignite the imagination of the viewer and creates a visual representation of the lifestyle a real yacht could offer. The features included on some recent superyachts that we have produced have really helped to bring the space to life, from a spa with scent diffuser triggered when the door is opened, to a tiny HDTV installed in the seating area for movie nights under the stars, there is a huge scope in utilising technology to showcase what life aboard could really be like.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267546/image/large-3b111e9247cecc105e79f435223c370f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267546">Brian Klassen, who builds yacht models at his studio in Canada for the yachting and commercial ship building industries believes that models have a vital role to play in the wider industry, despite the improvement in rendering technology. “Models are extremely valuable because not everyone can understand drawings or visualize a new concept. Renderings and videos provide good presentations, but a scale model can be viewed from all angles by a single viewer or multiple viewers gathered around a real, tangible representation, not a screen.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267559/image/large-324a04fe016e2e09313dc7dc9ad5cba4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267559">It's not only within the models themselves that technology comes into play. Like the shipyards themselves, automation and advancing tech is shaping the way models are produced. Guiseppe Capobianco explains, “In almost 20 years of model making we have tested different techniques, invested in technology and researched new production practices. We introduced 3D printing 18 years ago and recently we introduced a new innovative 3D printer to reproduce more realistic details. This machine completely changes the way of designing intricate details within the models and enables us to go deeper into the superyacht design.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267558/image/large-9d1fbce5de10595a6b9481420b9f9723.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267558">The technology within the sector is increasing every year, and AR is becoming more commonplace both on superyachts, and their models. With the demographic of superyacht owners shifting to the next generation, the tech industry is melding with yachting and owner’s expectations for interactivity are changing. “The idea that we can seamlessly connect the real world with the virtual is intriguing and an area that I believe will enhance the model making industry,” explained Jason, “with the overall look and feel of the yacht to be found on the model and the finer details such as the cabins and décor to be overlayed in the virtual world, offering a fully immersive experience.”This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-44" target="_blank">Issue 44 of SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>.&nbsp;To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

Scale superyacht models and their makers

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

home-htbi#1

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

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272804/image/large-37463e87be7b7181c9e360524917989c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272804">The 31.1-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8453" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Taiji31.1m (102'0&quot;)Sanlorenzo2021">Taiji</a>&nbsp;has entered the market and was delivered in 2021, having been recently commissioned by an experienced yachtsman giving the motor yacht an incredibly high specification and enormous appeal.The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuccon International Project (Company)">Zuccon International Project</a> with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> SL102/SL106 Asymmetric yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8453" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Taiji31.1m (102'0&quot;)Sanlorenzo2021">Taiji</a> has a grp hull and grp superstructure.&nbsp;Up to ten guests can be accommodated onboard and additional accommodation for three crew members, including the captain of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8453" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Taiji31.1m (102'0&quot;)Sanlorenzo2021">Taiji</a>. The interior design is timelessly modern, with brushed oak panels, natural tones, and light pastel blue accents. Highlights of the high quality features onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8453" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Taiji31.1m (102'0&quot;)Sanlorenzo2021">Taiji&nbsp;</a>include, Santushi carpets running underfoot in the staterooms and &nbsp;Silk Georgette marble in the bathrooms.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272666/image/large-3db9857ebbdb43b656e3c77725ced2dc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272666"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272810/image/large-5f674947f9afabe625a7f315ddd1bf63.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272810">Key innovative features of the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> include an extended main deck interior, a fold-down terrace to starboard off the main saloon, and an distinctive exterior profile. To the aft, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8453" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Taiji31.1m (102'0&quot;)Sanlorenzo2021">Taiji</a> has a hydraulic platform and an opening stern, enabling guests to have direct access to the tender garage and water toys storage.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272811/image/large-900d183b7e0a73f4b25c82e386af1692.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272811">An additional important feature of the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/taiji-31m/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Taiji, yacht for sale</a> is the expansive sundeck which holds a bar and allows guests to dine alfresco and enjoy scenic views while sunbathing. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272665/image/large-7467e69031b282aea1afe5e261b936b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272665"><a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/sanlorenzo/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">The Sanlorenzo yacht for sale&nbsp;</a>is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, which give her a cruising speed of 26 knots and a top speed of 28 knots.&nbsp;

31m Sanlorenzo yacht Taiji for sale 

The 31.1-metre Sanlorenzo motor yacht Taiji enters the market having been recently commissioned by an experienced yachtsman

31m Sanlorenzo yacht Taiji is for sale

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen Yachts</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/58" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luca Dini Design & Architecture (Company)">Luca Dini Design &amp; Architecture</a> have released new interior renders of Project Venus, the 55-metre Steel Fast Displacement yacht with exterior lines by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a> under construction on speculation at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> shipyard in Oss for delivery in Q2 2025. The presentation took place at the Tuscan seaside resort of Forte dei Marmi at the Forté In showroom, a company active in the world of luxury Italian furniture and a close collaborator of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/58" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luca Dini Design & Architecture (Company)">Luca Dini</a>’s.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250149/image/large-86c73a808db9f18b215a6d593fdd82a7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250149">The choice of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/58" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luca Dini Design & Architecture (Company)">Luca Dini Design &amp; Architecture</a> for the interior styling brings additional pedigree and Italian flair to the project. Suave and sophisticated but also welcoming and family-friendly, the colour palette in the main saloon and dining room, which take advantage of the full 9.6-metre beam, is based on aquamarine and ivory soft furnishings combined with warm wood veneers, natural leathers and full-height windows for exceptional light and panoramic views. Punchy blue fabrics are used in the sky lounge on the upper deck. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272679/image/large-f426f340c4125f202b1dd0f4245d202c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272679">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/58" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luca Dini Design & Architecture (Company)">Luca Dini</a> studio brought along various material samples that appear onboard the yacht and project leader Silvia Margutti pointed out the contrasting veneers comprising almond-toned oak, darker oak, teak, eucalyptus and rosewood, with both satin and glossy finishes. These are paired with soft tan leather by Foglizzo, custom wardrobe handles engineered by the shipyard, Invisible Grey, Jolie Grey, Fiore di Pesco and Ombra di Caravaggio marbles. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272678/image/large-d615976b62249d4a4aabf4ba2e1fd388.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272678">“In the bathrooms we wanted to have glass partitions that offered transparency combined with a degree or privacy, so we’ve introduced a special textured and etched glass that lets plenty of light in but you don’t feel like you’re on display,” said Margutti, who describes the overall interior style as “audacious classic.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272681/image/large-135052bf95cb26d55059a0660051b1d2.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272681">In the bathrooms the taps are by Gessi and recall the Charleston era of the 1920s with a modern twist, while the shower controls, also by Gessi, have an analogue feel with ratcheted knobs and push buttons like a high-fidelity audio set-up from the 70s or 80s. The large windows not only provide panoramic views, but also highlight the palette of interior materials, textures and colours.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272680/image/large-e5559e2e724a45abd5d65058870e6eca.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272680">The free-standing furniture and accessories are by a host of Italian designer labels such as Promemoria, Giorgetti, Henge, Catellani &amp; Smith, Palagi Exteta, Ceccotti Collezioni and Poltrona Frau.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272677/image/large-7a9a5d6339ce5f6f848df656445c9e89.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272677">With four guest suites on the lower deck and a VIP suite on the bridge deck, the yacht can sleep 12 guests, including the owners. The 82-square-metre master stateroom is spread across the entire beam on the main deck forward and sports a fixed balcony on the starboard side.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272676/image/large-77899b444dbfe56906a809f737eb4d9d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272676">“This is something new that wasn’t a feature of the previous platforms,” said Margutti. “It’s a very special and cosy area – perfect for enjoying a private breakfast or a cocktail at sunset away from the other guests.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250148/image/large-a3d0c1bce2f72ec39936052cb5d9a4f8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250148">The muscular exterior profile of the 55-metre Steel series has been restyled by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a> to add a more contemporary touch. The changes mean that Project Venus shares only the same technical and engineering specifications with her predecessors in the series. A noteworthy addition is the “shark tooth” motif, a design feature halfway along the side of the bridge deck that lends the yacht a powerful personality. The clean and streamlined design is emphasised by having no fashion plates, so the superstructure is completely free of pillars. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272670/image/large-0dc03a623e23009456b3c49c5e9be6ae.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272670">The connection between the outdoor and indoor social spaces is designed to make the best of both. The sundeck is home to a Jacuzzi and a lounge area, while the beach club is a chill-out zone with a bar area and easy access to the water. Storing the yacht’s tenders on the foredeck means that this aft space is always available for use by guests without having to unload tenders and toys.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts lays keel of 55m Steel superyacht Project Venus (2022-11-23 17:00:00 +0100)">Heesen Yachts lays keel of 55m Steel superyacht Project Venus<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272671/image/large-a040d926695bb70a0503b94dd30b5257.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272671"></a>Of course, Project Venus is for sale and a future owner is still in time to adapt the interior styling to his or her personal tastes, but in the studio’s experience these changes are usually minor: “With the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> projects we’re involved in, not much at all is changed in terms of materials. Sometimes the client will ask for some small modifications in their own space in the master suite, but generally they choose to stick with the proposed concept,” said Margutti.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/204033/image/large-9437a9294c7549f5b69682263c0de605.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/204033">During the event, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/58" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luca Dini Design & Architecture (Company)">Luca Dini</a> also presented his designs for the Neom complex in Saudi Arabia, one of the largest real estate projects under way in the world. The Sindalah Island resort in the Red Sea will be the first of 10 regions completed as part of the mega-development and includes a superyacht marina, yacht club, nine-hole golf course and Michelin-starred restaurants, along with high-end hotels, villas and apartments. Set to open in 2024, the project has been described as the “future of luxury travel.”

Interior renderings of Heesen superyacht Project Venus unveiled

Heesen Yachts and Luca Dini Design & Architecture have released new interior renders of the 55m superyacht Project Venus.

Project Venus: new design details unveiled by Luca Dini and Heesen Yachts

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272646/image/large-3f5e53458913896fa7923b32c48db108.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272646">Currently anchored off Antibes on the French Riviera, is the 80-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/98" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aalto80.0m (262'6&quot;)Oceanco2007">Aalto</a>. Delivered as Amevi, by the Dutch shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> in 2007, she features sweeping lines and a cutting exterior from the boards of Italian design studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a>, while her interior was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/19" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Pinto (Company)">Alberto Pinto</a>. Built with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/98" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aalto80.0m (262'6&quot;)Oceanco2007">Aalto</a> has an interior volume of 2,310 GT and can accommodate up to 16 guests in eight staterooms, including a master suite, three double VIPs, two double guest staterooms and two twin guest staterooms. Performance-wise, she is powered by twin&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> diesel engines of 4,651 horsepower each, allowing her to reach a top speed of 18.5 knots, and cover a transatlantic range of 5,500 nautical miles.

Oceanco superyacht Aalto in Antibes

The 80m superyacht Aalto, built by Oceanco, is seen here anchored in Antibes.

The 26.81-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4910" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sirena Yachts (Company)">Sirena</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13021" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Confidential26.81m (87'12&quot;)Sirena Yachts2022">Confidential</a> sold in a deal with Jeff Brown of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7179" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jeff Brown Yachts (Company)">Jeff Brown Yachts</a> introducing the buyer and Justin Goins of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6348" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachts360 (Company)">Yachts360</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272573/image/large-bcaae853b5b91c04724998acffa05791.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272573">Delivered in 2022 as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4910" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sirena Yachts (Company)">Sirena</a> 88 RPH series, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13021" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Confidential26.81m (87'12&quot;)Sirena Yachts2022">Confidential</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="German Frers (Company)">German Frers</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/43" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cor D. Rover Design (Company)">Cor D. Rover Design</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="German Frers (Company)">German Frers</a>. The 125GT carbon yacht also boasts interior design by her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4910" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sirena Yachts (Company)">Sirena Yachts</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272571/image/large-f8a1b3d1722f1d5ab20756c0875d5614.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272571"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272572/image/large-c2f5590e9dcbe9cd249fab6accf00936.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272572"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272574/image/large-53475077e035afc578376bb60a1662b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272574"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13021" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Confidential26.81m (87'12&quot;)Sirena Yachts2022">Confidential</a> can comfortably sleep up to 10 guests across a five stateroom layout, as well as a crew of four across two cabins.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272569/image/large-68c11d4896cef2da3b602227db3af018.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272569"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272563/image/large-d1b2c5b63a5b7732fd0927e2d7fd5b6a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272563"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272559/image/large-e8879c847854cc94127d98bee8870bd5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272559">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13021" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Confidential26.81m (87'12&quot;)Sirena Yachts2022">Confidential</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines which provide her with a top speed of 25 knots and a cruising speed of 16 knots. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13021" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Confidential26.81m (87'12&quot;)Sirena Yachts2022">Confidential</a> had a last known asking price of $9,900,000.

27m Sirena yacht Confidential sold

The 27m Sirena motor yacht Confidential sold with a last known asking price of $9,900,000.

27m Sirena motor yacht Confidential sold

The 35.36-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/613" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lazzara Yachts (Company)">Lazzara Yachts</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2397" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="QTR35.36m (116'0&quot;)Lazzara Yachts2009">QTR</a>, previously called Money For Nothing, has entered the market. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/qtr/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht QTR&nbsp;for sale</a> features exterior design, as well as naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/613" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lazzara Yachts (Company)">Lazzara Yachts.</a>&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272509/image/large-138554948860c7db6fec0a203534102c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272509">She has recently undergone a refit in 2022, with many upgrades including new soft goods, new carpets, exterior soft goods, a new Garmin Navionics suite and an additional stateroom. The 215 GT LMY 116 series yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2397" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="QTR35.36m (116'0&quot;)Lazzara Yachts2009">QTR&nbsp;</a>has a grp hull and grp superstructure.&nbsp;The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> can accommodate up to 10 guests between her five staterooms, as well as three crew members, including the captain of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2397" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="QTR35.36m (116'0&quot;)Lazzara Yachts2009">QTR&nbsp;</a>in two cabins. Key features of the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> include her full-beam owners' stateroom situated amidships with a large walk-in wardrobe. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272511/image/large-80359943dc1b768ada4785c85eb43f6d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272511"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272512/image/large-587198ffe07282888ce81e4193b87a8a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272512"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272510/image/large-59e67a3b33ebba8c0b385dc7dcb99ba2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272510">Aft of the master stateroom are her his-and-hers" bathrooms, with a centreline shared shower and Jacuzzi tub. &nbsp;Entering from the aft deck, the saloon is open to a formal dining area.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272514/image/large-2c7b8ed69d4eb06e95f6bd8dc2bab186.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272514">Additional key features consist of the large bow which provides guests with ample sunbathing space and unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding seascape. Moreover, the expansive aft of the yacht provides additional space for socialising and entertainment. Guests can gather, share stories, enjoy cocktails, or even dine alfresco while being surrounded by the water and scenic views.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272513/image/large-84a920f8016fbe0c6b1d4da4bb1727b5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272513"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272515/image/large-92fb82dc90d6c05d4992b740c70c1ed7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272515">The<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/lazzara/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">&nbsp;Lazzara yacht for sale</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU&nbsp;</a>engines, which give her a cruising speed of 20 knots and a top speed of 26 knots. The yacht carries 16,275 litres of fuel onboard, and 2,271 litres of water.

35m Lazzara motor yacht QTR for sale 

New to the market: motor yacht QTR for sale. She is a 35m Lazzara yacht built in 2009. 

35m Lazzara motor yacht QTR on the market

The 38.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bliss Easy38.5m (126'4&quot;)Sanlorenzo2009">Bliss Easy</a> sold in a deal with Dimitris Kyriazakos of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="EKKA Yachts (Company)">EKKA Yachts</a> introducing the buyer and Gregory Gheraïa of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4568" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Orange Yachts (Company)">Black Orange Yachts</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/20113/image/large-e924b668420d455ff9b516be8d459414.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20113">Delivered in 2009 as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> Alloy 40 series, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bliss Easy38.5m (126'4&quot;)Sanlorenzo2009">Bliss Easy</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/586" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Francesco Paszkowski (Company)">Francesco Paszkowski</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/20123/image/large-8b0246f44636ddc7abd3a5b5e15432cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20123"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bliss Easy38.5m (126'4&quot;)Sanlorenzo2009">Bliss Easy</a> can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests across five staterooms consisting of a master suite, VIP, double and two twins. She also boasts four breathtaking balconies which fold out from the main saloon and the owners’ stateroom.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/20114/image/large-3bb07a33b381a758ea4de1e43f41f1c9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20114">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bliss Easy38.5m (126'4&quot;)Sanlorenzo2009">Bliss Easy</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, which provide her with a top speed of 26 knots and a cruising speed of 22 knots. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bliss Easy38.5m (126'4&quot;)Sanlorenzo2009">Bliss Easy</a> had a last known asking price of €6,900,000.

Sanlorenzo motor yacht Bliss Easy sold

The 39m Sanlorenzo motor yacht Bliss Easy sold with a last known asking price of €6,900,000.

39m Sanlorenzo motor yacht Bliss Easy sold

The 59-metre<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4624" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Metalships & Docks S.A. (Company)">&nbsp;Metalships&nbsp;</a>motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3189" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maybe59.0m (193'7&quot;)Metalships & Docks S.A.2016">Maybe&nbsp;</a>has joined the market. Delivered in 2017, the motor yacht at the time was the largest ever to have been designed and built in Spain. She poses a rare opportunity to purchase a yacht in impeccable condition, having never cruised with an owner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272614/image/large-8db779277f91582a621825384f7d3e82.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272614">The high-volume <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> is from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1874" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acubens (Company)">Acubens Naval Architects’</a> drawing boards and features a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcello Penna (Company)">Marcelo Pena Yacht Design</a> interior. The 1,043 GT <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale&nbsp;</a>was built for long passages complete with exceptional onboard storage solutions and a trans-Pacific which is also one of her defining characteristics.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272598/image/large-7e1bd9bd32b83931406d9f4614da104e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272598"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3189" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maybe59.0m (193'7&quot;)Metalships & Docks S.A.2016">Maybe</a> can accommodate up to 12 guests across six opulent guest suites. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3189" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maybe59.0m (193'7&quot;)Metalships & Docks S.A.2016">Maybe</a> features a full beam owner’s suite located on the main deck, with a private study, walk-in wardrobe, and his-and-hers bathrooms. Natural light pours through the windows, creating a haven for relaxation. The guest suites - an upper deck VIP, two double and two twin staterooms on the lower deck, are a luxurious oasis of comfort. The neutral panelling and soft furnishings paired with the dark wooden furniture and colourful accents create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272613/image/large-1742319036c5b435a9384e1a72167c13.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272613"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/85543/image/large-c3da9d842ed292d372d3148280eadc1c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/85543"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3189" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maybe59.0m (193'7&quot;)Metalships & Docks S.A.2016">Maybe</a> offers impressive living spaces, with a full beam sky lounge on the upper deck and a spacious main saloon leading to the interior dining table. A highlight of the superyacht is herglass elevator which enables a seamless transition from the lower guest cabins all the way to the sun deck, allowing guests to arrive in style with sweeping vistas. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272619/image/large-4727695bf79e0f1eb03d73fae79e421c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272619">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/maybe/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Maybe for sale</a> has an exterior dining table on the upper deck that can extend to seat 16 guests. The stylish beach club has a bar, a relaxed seating zone as well as a Jacuzzi, perfect for reclining by the water with an unparalleled view.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272610/image/large-11bd1f7481559f8dc82064213870edee.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272610"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272604/image/large-562b77674b4a608d7c1440baa15962d6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272604">Other key features on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3189" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maybe59.0m (193'7&quot;)Metalships & Docks S.A.2016">Maybe</a> include a helideck and an aft beachclub adjacent to the swim area. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272616/image/large-4d02988bb40a3093e5f7d97d21b314f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272616">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4624" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Metalships & Docks S.A. (Company)">Metalships</a> yacht for sale has a 6,500 nautical mile cruising range, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3189" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maybe59.0m (193'7&quot;)Metalships & Docks S.A.2016">Maybe</a> presents a multitude of possibilities for global cruising. She has been maintained to the highest standard with each of her 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 which enable her to have a cruising speed of 12 knots and a top speed of 15 knots. Moreover, she counts fewer than 1,800 hours of running time.

59m Metalships motor yacht Maybe for sale

Metalships motor yacht Maybe has joined the market having never been cruised by her owner. 


59m Metalships motor yacht Maybe is for sale having never been cruised by her owner 

The 30.48-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/488" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Broward Marine (Company)">Broward</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/782" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A Place In The Sun30.48m (100'0&quot;)Broward Marine1992">A Place In The Sun</a> is set to sell at auction with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6884" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Boathouse Auctions (Company)">Boathouse Auctions</a>. The sale will take place on 22 June 2023, following a $700,000 price reduction. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230237/image/large-0ea4bbd40814510e54b96da1f99705d2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230237"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/782" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A Place In The Sun30.48m (100'0&quot;)Broward Marine1992">A Place In The Sun</a> will sell without a reserve price to the highest bidder with <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> acting as the listing agent. Launched in 1992 from the United States, she has been continuously updated since her delivery, including a reconfiguration in 2021.Her extensive $4 million refit included an aft deck stairway installed, as well as a new radar arch, mast and hardtop. Her reconfiguration also saw not one, but two Jacuzzis added to the exterior of the motor yacht for sale.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230236/image/large-fbed19940220a3b1c53bcb922b3ac37a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230236"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230238/image/large-e7c307ba3acc67ad596c4c6f2e1ea700.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230238"><a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/yachts/a-place-in-the-sun" target="_blank">A Place In The Sun</a> has a light and airy saloon with ample seating for guests and a new bar. She also has an open plan design that allows for a U-shaped dining area for guests to enjoy in the same room.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230224/image/large-7a05ba1118ee6302de95e9421375c452.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230224"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230232/image/large-2a7f523e44feabc151e9cd24014e9591.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230232"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230228/image/large-17bc453b535d53d2e9a333d8200e1594.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230228"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230226/image/large-c327a1be0ced047226de48f980e8ebfe.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230226"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230222/image/large-611b6a8ff407e285a76070b1da885fdb.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230222">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/broward/for-sale" target="_blank">Broward yacht for sale</a> is able to accommodate up to 13 guests across five well-appointed staterooms including two master staterooms, one VIP stateroom, one twin stateroom with pullman and one bunked stateroom with four single berths. She is also capable of carrying a crew of five onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230242/image/large-63b2ff2ddd13b7bd1214bad71ff5a01d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230242">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" target="_blank">yacht for sale</a> features a functional, but spacious layout, allowing for open and private areas throughout the yacht. Her flybridge offers guests the choice of two Jacuzzis with a full bar for entertaining.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230230/image/large-d2b40e66706fc6aba708a47a069ac551.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230230">Performance-wise, <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/yachts/a-place-in-the-sun" target="_blank">A Place In The Sun</a> is equipped with twin <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/detroit-diesel" target="_blank">Detroit Diesel</a> engines that provide her with a top speed of 18 knots and a comfortable cruising speed of 15 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/230234/image/large-a9c2546e4822d1d48b08b35310033208.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/230234">

Broward yacht A Place In The Sun to be sold at auction

The 30m Broward motor yacht A Place In The Sun is set to sell at auction with Boathouse Auctions.

30m Broward motor yacht A Place In The Sun to be sold at auction

The 32.2-metre <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/sanlorenzo" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Sanlorenzo</a> SL106A yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11982" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="QII32.2m (105'8&quot;)Sanlorenzo2022">QII</a> previously known as <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/yachts/qii" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Montaña</a>, sold in an in-house deal with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2223" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="HMY Yacht Sales (Company)">HMY Yacht Sales</a> brokers Alejandro Javier Navarro, representing the buyer, and Simon Graham representing the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243832/image/large-fbb475c60232d1c3c0f782f47d690f89.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243832"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/241631/image/large-c8c07bd7d825cb01ecf444404f4cb177.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/241631">The flybridge yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11982" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="QII32.2m (105'8&quot;)Sanlorenzo2022">QII</a> was delivered in 2022 from Italy as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11982" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="QII32.2m (105'8&quot;)Sanlorenzo2022">Sanlorenzo</a> SL106 Asymmetric series and sports an exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/586" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Francesco Paszkowski (Company)">Francesco Paszkowski</a>. The 189 GT motor yacht can accommodate as many as 10 guests across her five staterooms.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219121/image/large-e84601a36b2c37f8c5cca94739d5720b.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219121"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219122/image/large-529fbc8159a641bcba5ffb54c414ffae.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219122"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243833/image/large-b49ba8bafc2f325e4061b7614db9a9ef.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243833"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11982" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="QII32.2m (105'8&quot;)Sanlorenzo2022">QII</a> is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU&nbsp;</a>16V 2000 M96 Diesel engines that provide her with a top speed of 28 knots and a cruising speed of 24 knots. At the time of her sale, the yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11982" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="QII32.2m (105'8&quot;)Sanlorenzo2022">QII</a> had a last known asking price of $10,899,000. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243873/image/large-988a1ddedef95b0e47f7b43d77bce3e2.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243873">

32m Sanlorenzo motor yacht QII sold

One of the oldest and most established shipyards in the Netherlands, Balk Shipyard has become synonymous with family traditions and quality Dutch craftsmanship. The company has achieved a 200 plus year reign as masters in the build, and more recently, the refit field without appearing to be blowing their own trumpet once. Continuous results of the highest calibre and a can-do attitude is what seems to have brought Balk this far, and is a quality they have embraced to take them into the future, and beyond.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156464/image/large-d87d4426871f74635882bbec4c631648.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156464">We meet with Daan Balk, an eighth generation leader of the company whom has taken over the family business from his father, and from so many who has done so before him. When asked about the company’s rich history, Daan doesn’t hesitate to proudly reveal the family line that has led him to where he is today, “The shipyard was established in 1764 by my family Balk, and is still 100% owned by the Balk family today. The family history dates back to 1602 where they established themselves in Elburg, which is an old fortress town in the Netherlands, where they worked as carpenters in the city. After doing that for a couple of hundred years, the family built Elburg’s first shipyard in the late 1700’s, where they constructed small fishing boats.”<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156465/image/large-ad7c6b911531ba554a8ea0b083007a0d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156465">And so the family’s time in the maritime industry began. For the next few 100 years the Balk family experienced ups and downs ranging from a booming fishing era, the first and second world war, to the closing of the Zuidersee district from the North Sea, leaving Elburg, once at the water’s edge, now in the back waters of the land reclaimed area. This led the company to adjust their business ideal and switch over to the construction of small pleasure craft, and at the same time, begin construction in steel, instead of their tradition of building in wood.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156466/image/large-61f1d66f87b5f610ef2a20aeff58f6a7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156466">“At the time I was doing my chief engineer training while working on commercial ships. At the age of 28 the news came that my father had passed away, which had me come home to take over the company from my mother,” recalls Daan. The Balk family worked hard over the next few years to get the company back on track, which they managed to do, and in 2002 was awarded the Dutch Royal seal for being a family run business over 200 years.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156467/image/large-eb035bbe886874aa5d72a228507198df.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156467">This seemed like a good time to review the company’s future, and as their current location in Elburg limited the yard to pleasure craft ranging between 20m to 25m, a new facility was on the cards. Balk decided to purchase a yard that was going under in the town of Urk, and in 2004 relocated to their current location.The new facility and its capabilities had a direct impact on the yard’s direction, “We decided to instead of focusing on the new build side of the yachting industry, to look more at the refit business and to be a sort of backup to the larger shipyards in the Netherlands, somewhere they can haul out their vessels at short notice to have work completed on their new build or refit projects.” This approach led to new business, and soon Balk found their position within the refit sector.With the new yard came a revival of Balk’s skills in working with metal; aluminium in particular. These renewed skills gave Daan the confidence to approach other yards with the intention of assisting in the construction of their new build projects. After some convincing, Balk was given the opportunity to build sections of Feadship De Vries’ hull 680, M/Y Pestifer (now Tanusha), which was later launched in 2006. Their relationships with other yards grew, with other projects including works for Royal Huisman and Heesen. This still forms a large part of the business today.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156468/image/large-bed901d24a44339e99f48b298435d932.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156468">The refit sector however is where Balk really comes into their own, with a strong history in the repair and maintenance of yachts. Some of their most recent and successful works include the refits of Alloy Yacht’s CaryAli and Heesen’s Seven Sins. Seven Sins saw her bow section be removed and replaced by a new section custom built by the shipyard. “It turns out the project was something they wanted to do from day one,” says Daan. “Together with Frank Laupman and Van Oossanen Naval Architects, the owner thought that the bow was already too short back then. So a few years ago already he asked Laupman to have a look at a new design, and Van Oossanen to see if the performance will be better by adding a bulbous bow. The three owners decided together to have these changes made to the yacht before they would go on a world cruise together, which will take place following the coming Caribbean season.”<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156469/image/large-a26651e1043a4fe24fdd0c8681c54af8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156469">Despite their successes at the new facility in Urk, Balk has already begun looking at ways to expand the shipyard again, and another relocation Daan says, is imminent, “Last year we had the 65m Callisto out of the water and she was absolutely the limit, so we are slightly restricted in our lifting capabilities here.” He continues to explain that the local Urk government have for a few years now been looking into extending the harbour area by building new docks. To expedite this process, Balk, along with a few other local enterprises decided to put forth the initial funds to kick start the project. “We finally have the government on our side, who has agreed to the extension plans, and research have now begun to finilase the process, and we foresee construction to the new harbour to begin in about three years.”<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156470/image/large-0a9f90d345b56deec8648446f19e72d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156470">Despite the plans of a new facility, Daan sees Balk continuing in the refit sector, yet doesn’t rule out the possibility of a new build project, “I strongly believe that the future in new builds for the next five years lies in the 70-130m size range. And that step is just too big for us at the moment. I see ourselves continuing in the refit sector, and hopefully one day will have one or two owners that were happy with our abilities in refit, and decide to do a new build with us. That would be nice.”<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156471/image/large-e9805f0ff800c0bbb5c8eabace21d4be.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156471">Today Daan is supported in the business by his mother, sister, nephew, and wife Stella. As for his three sons, he secretly hopes that the Balk bloodline continues within the company, but at the same time wish for them only to be happy and successful in whatever they decide to do, “I see my task now to at least make sure the company is doing well, to improve growth and to make it sustainable for them. Then it is up to them to make the choice what it is that they want to do.”By Charl van Rooy, photos by Tom van Oossanen and Balk Shipyards