<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GymMarine (Company)">Gym Marine Group</a> has announced the launch of its sister company, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7134" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Coral Spa Consultants (Company)">Coral Spa Consultants</a>. The consultancy company will provide clients with spa design and specification services alongside <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GymMarine (Company)">Gym Marine</a>’s successful gym design and equipment supply business.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268197/image/large-f8ed4c6938d10c56b9b0ecde18259661.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268197"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7134" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Coral Spa Consultants (Company)">Coral Spa Consultants</a> will be managed by Kayleigh Westgarth and will allow the Group to expand its services. This will include advising interior designers of operational practicalities, as well as providing expert design and installation advice.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268196/image/large-692349c086f7b43b61190341484b2b21.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268196">“With over 15 years in the health and wellness industry, I have worked on many prestigious yachts and was responsible for setting up and managing the spa aboard one of the world’s largest superyachts,” explained Kayleigh Westgarth. “This first-hand experience of onboard spa use and guest requirements has helped me identify gaps in the market in terms of design and layout, as well as guest needs and the needs of the spa therapist.”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/52938" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Entrepreneur in Yachting: Founder of Gym Marine Edward Thomas (2021-06-04 11:15:00 +0200)">Entrepreneur in Yachting: Founder of Gym Marine Edward Thomas<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268195/image/large-a951901163695910a98e98d0b65f3fde.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268195"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7134" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Coral Spa Consultants (Company)">Coral Spa Consultants</a> outfit spas and equipment for wellness areas, treatment rooms and even portable massage setups. They are equipped to offer the latest in spa trends and treatments and meet every owner and guest requirement.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195369/image/large-430a21e194990f5d8f867379d1795eba.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195369">“This is a very natural development for us, and we’re really excited about this new arm of our business. Kayleigh’s expertise in all areas of spa design and specification will allow us to offer a broader scope of services to our clients and design full-scope health and wellness spaces aboard yachts, as well as designing for private residences and luxury resorts.” concluded Ed Thomas Founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GymMarine (Company)">Gym Marine</a> Yachts &amp; Interiors.

Gym Marine Group launches Coral Spa Consultants

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Ed Thomas, Founder of Gym Marine Group

Kayleigh Westgarth of Coral Spa Consultants

Coral Spa Consultants

Gym Marine Group has announced the launch of its sister company, Coral Spa Consultants. 

Gym Marine Group launches sister company Coral Spa Consultants

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

IGY Marinas partners with NEOM marina Sindalah in Saudi Arabia

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

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

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 Saudi Arabia has launched an electronic portal to help facilitate the entry and movement of tourist yachts within the Kingdom. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233158/image/large-38efa9d8e0aff31309182446bf7b34ef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233158">Named the Ebhar platform, the new portal unifies all government procedures and information from 20 government agencies, including yacht registration services, procedures for entering and leaving the Kingdom, sailing permits, issuing navigational licenses, and registering yachts under the Saudi flag. Ebhar is a female Quaranic name meaning breadth, graciousness and openness like that of an ocean, it also means oceanic navigation.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachts arriving at Jeddah Yacht Club for the Saudi Arabian F1 Grand Prix (2023-03-15 17:15:00 +0100)">Yachts arriving at Jeddah Yacht Club for the Saudi Arabian F1 Grand Prix</a>The new platform was launched in February at the Jeddah Yacht Club during a ceremony that celebrated the expansion of the Saudi Arabia yachting and maritime industry. New developments along the Kingdom's expansive coast include NEOM, Amala, and the Red Sea project.r<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250919/image/large-834ab5a6be786201ca6248864772ee79.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250919">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56505" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Red Sea development: Sindalah, NEOM’s first island development with 86-berth marina announced (2022-12-05 14:30:00 +0100)">Red Sea development: Sindalah, NEOM’s first island development with 86-berth marina announced</a>&nbsp;According to a report by the Saudi Press Agency, Minister of Transport and Logistics, Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, announced that the Kingdom is expecting a growth of 19.4 percent per year between 2022 and 2028.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia launches Ebhar yacht portal

Saudi Arabia has announced the launch of the Ebhar platform, a new electronic portal for tourist yachts.

Saudi Arabia launches electronic portal for foreign yachts

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

The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/397" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="International Yacht Club Antibes (IYCA) (Company)">International Yacht Club Antibes (IYCA)</a> has been officially opened in an inauguration ceremony this week. Since 2017, the company Vauban 21 has undertaken a €135 million transformation programme, designed in collaboration with Philippe Prost. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271422/image/large-d6a7bf968038f2fb541ba387437fb927.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271422">In 2022 the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/397" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="International Yacht Club Antibes (IYCA) (Company)">International Yacht Club d’Antibes (IYCA)</a> underwent a renovation into a modern yacht club with a renovated superyacht dock, Quay Camille Rayon. The quay can accommodate yachts up to 150-metres in length, as well as 20 superyachts from 70-metres. Access to the dock is carefully monitored to guarantee security and safety. Recently installed modern infrastructure such as vacuum pumping for black &nbsp;and grey water, fibre optics and increased electrical power. The quay also offers relaxation areas and private works areas for the crews.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271421/image/large-9b1f9088fde651170c0cf41b8d74fe56.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271421">The design of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/397" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="International Yacht Club Antibes (IYCA) (Company)">IYCA Yacht Club</a> has been inspired by an explorer yacht, offering world class facilities to the clientele of the Quay Camille Rayon and its members. The new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/397" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="International Yacht Club Antibes (IYCA) (Company)">IYCA&nbsp;</a>offers its clients personalised welcome in the helipad lounge adjacent to the Helistation. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271427/image/large-0dbedb33c16213ac30be1f356318d80a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271427"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271429/image/large-3259b82b810bbe65bb1165dbd68d24f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271429">Clients and members can enjoy a lounge bar, confidential meeting rooms, panoramic terraces and a Crew Center dedicated to &nbsp;crews with a lounge area, a gym and a training studio. On the upper levels, there &nbsp;is a lounge bar open every day from 5pm to 11.30pm, two panoramic terraces of &nbsp;700 square-metres in total, with an amazing view of the Fort Carré, the Cap d’Antibes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271428/image/large-851c53ae26b5db258c82b272a760569d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271428"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271435/image/large-278a0498ed10f9ca3356cfeab89357ba.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271435">450 guests were present to celebrate the inauguration of the yacht club, with support from partners from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1757" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo Superyachts (Company)">Palumbo Superyachts</a>, Blade, Banque Internationale à Luxembourg and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/314" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pantaenius (Company)">Pantaenius</a>. Vauban 21 has also partnered with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a>to offer long term berthing contracts for the Camille Rayon berths.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271432/image/large-2d8ea826d7ca061537cd0cc699630b4a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271432">

International Yacht Club Antibes opened

The International Yacht Club Antibes has been opened in an inauguration ceremony.

The International Yacht Club Antibes (IYCA) has opened its doors

<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

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

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

Pininfarina and Fulvio De Simoni open joint showroom

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

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<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a>, one of the oldest yachting companies in the world, founded in 1782, is expanding its luxury services by opening a new office in Athens as part of its global growth strategy after celebrating its 240th anniversary last year.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267827/image/large-73b0ee94253f392c7c5299250d131df2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267827">The move aims to improve services in one of the Mediterranean's most significant markets in collaboration with the Fais Group, a prominent group in retail, hospitality, real estate development, and yachting in Greece.Christos Chatzigiakoumis, a yachting enthusiast since age six and a seasoned CFO and CEO in various industries, will oversee the joint venture, bringing his extensive knowledge of the yachting industry and professionalism to the table.&nbsp;“I am thrilled to join <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a>, a highly esteemed brand in the yachting industry, and provide our clients with exceptional services in this prime yachting destination. Our suite of services includes selling and managing new and used yachts, yacht management, project management, charter, and insurance. As the managing director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> Greece, I am committed to delivering a 360-degree approach to meet our client’s needs.” - commented Christos Chatzigiakoumis.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">C&amp;N</a> Greece has also hired Sylvia Katsamaki as charter manager and charter broker and Efthimis Karalis as a sales broker.“I am delighted to announce <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons'</a> growth during this key event on the yachting calendar and to begin our operations in Greece with such a reputable partner. This marks a new chapter for us, and we are eager to better serve the market with our new operation,” commented Paolo Casani, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a>.This announcement coincides with the launch of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mediterranean Yacht Show - 2023">Mediterranean Yacht Show</a> (MEDYS) in Nafplion, highlighting the significance of Greece as a prime yachting destination, with numerous islands in the Aegean and Ionian seas available for clients to explore.

Camper and Nicholsons opens Athens office

Camper & Nicholsons opens an office in Athens to further their luxury services in yachting in line with their worldwide growth plan. 

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Camper & Nicholsons opens Athens office

The 24.78-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burger Boat Company (Company)">Burger Boat</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laid Back 24.78m (81'4&quot;)Burger Boat Company1989">Laid Back</a> sold in a deal with Bill Powers of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2578" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="26 North Yachts (Company)">26 North Yachts</a> introducing the buyer and Pam Barlow of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/10" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luke Brown Yachts (Company)">Luke Brown Yachts</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233587/image/large-019d4589b7bf473c618927c9d490772b.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233587">Delivered in 1989 from the United States, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laid Back 24.78m (81'4&quot;)Burger Boat Company1989">Laid Back</a> is part of the 80’ Burger series. She was designed in full by her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burger Boat Company (Company)">Burger Boat Company</a> which were responsible for her interior and exterior design, as well as her naval architecture.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233594/image/large-f7ac9ec5f6e942e4bf106a232a9ef7eb.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233594"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233593/image/large-4a66247e9f3e93eda81d06c996a94bd9.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233593"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233589/image/large-f1773b2a07be5eff6a33b9f8fd99af88.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233589"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laid Back 24.78m (81'4&quot;)Burger Boat Company1989">Laid Back</a> features a three stateroom configuration, with accommodation for up to six guests. She boasts a classic interior design with a high use of woods to accompany her contemporary main saloon. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233592/image/large-f8516c68df1ab3dced8f707f3959420f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233592"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233596/image/large-dfc47880c70d767b13eff8d94866a6ff.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233596">In terms of propulsion, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laid Back 24.78m (81'4&quot;)Burger Boat Company1989">Laid Back</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 propel her to a top speed of 21 knots and a comfortable cruising speed of 17 knots. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laid Back 24.78m (81'4&quot;)Burger Boat Company1989">Laid Back</a> had a last known asking price of $1,195,500. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233591/image/large-dee8a0f556781988c2fd5e8a0365b626.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233591">

25m Burger Boat yacht Laid Back sold

The 25m Burger Boat motor yacht Laid Back sold with a last known asking price of $1,195,500.

25m Burger Boat motor yacht Laid Back sold

The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a> has announced a new reinvestment fund for the superyacht industry, aimed at ocean conservation. The Ocean Assist Fund plans to promote a new path into nurturing both ocean and human vitality.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273322/image/large-81c76517a9d6ab0a6ba06abc70e22e99.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273322">The Ocean Assist Fund will be used to select marine conservation and restoration projects to allocate funds granted by the yachting community. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a> will use appropriate criteria to determine which projects are selected and will ensure that support goes to the most urgent needs.“By prioritising projects and adopting scientific tools that are urgently needed to protect the oceans, the superyacht community can maximise financial and non-financial resources to support nature-based solutions and aid the global effort to mitigate ecological impacts,” said <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/237001/image/large-34661eb661037cedcc9fa816ea2839c9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/237001">Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56401" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation unveils YETI 1.0 to evaluate environmental impact in yachting (2022-11-17 16:45:00 +0100)">Water Revolution Foundation unveils YETI 1.0 to evaluate environmental impact in yachting</a>The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a> will work with an independent scientific advisory board composed of renowned ocean scientists to identify the projects that will have the greatest impact in preserving the ocean and will feed back their findings to the yachting community.“By investing in ocean conservation through this programme, the superyacht community can act as a significant force to solve ocean problems and make a positive collective impact, not only for themselves but for the planet as a whole,” commented the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/210814/image/large-2f97f065978c36e73e041f8b3df36273.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/210814">Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56155" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sustainable mooring: How to preserve the world’s largest lung? (2022-10-13 14:30:00 +0200)">Sustainable mooring: How to preserve the world’s largest lung?</a>The project aims to raise awareness and commitment within the yachting community, and will transform financial support for ocean conservation into a business proposition. The project will create a new age of regenerative development in the yachting sector, to help revive our invaluable marine ecosystems.&nbsp;“The Ocean Assist programme will enable yachting to contribute to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals – which seek to protect planet’s and human health, conserve biodiversity, combat climate change and improve livelihoods for everyone, everywhere,” concluded the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240105/image/large-08aa65fd6517d3cb3aafc9d8202ab996.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240105">

Water Revolution Foundation announces Ocean Assist Fund

The Water Revolution Foundation has announced the Ocean Assist Fund for the superyacht industry, aimed at ocean conservation.

Water Revolution Foundation announces Ocean Assist Fund for ocean conservation

Turkey-based yacht builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin Yachts</a> has unveiled a new 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 superyacht model, with two hulls already in-build. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 motor yacht uses innovative design elements with outstanding craftsmanship and builds upon the already successful <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 163 model.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272706/image/large-0c86f28182ca880acdb5367f9982e42e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272706">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 yacht showcases a collaboration between renowned exterior designer Emrecan Özgün of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4305" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unique Yacht Design (Company)">Unique Yacht Design</a> and esteemed interior design house <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a>. The Bilgin 170 differs from her sistership the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 164, with a larger and more traditional bow shape, to create an overall sleeker appearance.“The layout of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170-I remains identical to its sibling models, ensuring familiarity and ease of use for customers,” explained Emrecan Özgün. “The primary goal during the design process was to optimise the 50-metre models, achieving a more sporty and masculine look, while blending the design seamlessly to offer customers the ability to utilise both open and enclosed spaces under 500 GT.”The interior of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 has been skillfully designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a> to complement her striking exterior. She focuses on luxury, comfort, and elegance, while combining the interior functionality with refined aesthetics.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272707/image/large-39a30d39b7a0df128f0dcd7bc793e298.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272707">“The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 draws on the experience gained from the successful 47 and 50-metre projects and combines elegance with timeless lines. The 499 GT yacht is able to accommodate up to 12 guests and a crew of nine. She has an elegant exterior and interior as well as a unique beach club and outdoor spaces,” explained Berkay Yılmaz, Commercial Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin Yachts</a>.The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 features an elongated bridge deck aft, extending by 1.5-metres to amplify her living space and offer a spacious and shaded area for guests to unwind. Her beach club on the lower deck ensures plenty of natural light with expansive windows when all three doors are closed.&nbsp;“We are thrilled to unveil the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170, a stunning yacht that represents the pinnacle of design and craftsmanship,” said İsmail Şengün, the CEO at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin Yachts</a>. “Emrecan Özgün's innovative approach and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a>'s impeccable interior design have resulted in a vessel that exudes sportiness and elegance, elevating the yacht experience to new heights.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272704/image/large-18023ad16112c054f42e20bf68c83c55.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272704">Key features onboard the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 include her classic bow shape which provides additional private seating and sunbathing areas once her rescue boat for the tender is deployed. Her swim platform also provides direct contact with the sea, as well as sun loungers for guests to relax.The first unit of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 series is scheduled for delivery by the end of 2024, followed closely by the second unit, which is slated to be available in time for 2025.

New 52m Bilgin 170 superyacht model in-build

Bilgin Yachts has unveiled a new 52m Bilgin 170 superyacht model, with two hulls already in-build.

Bilgin Yachts unveils 52m in-build Bilgin 170 superyacht

The demand for very large sailing yachts is nothing like that for large motor yachts, but over the last few years there has been increased interest in very large sailing yachts. Some projects have been delivered, some are under construction and others are on the drawing board. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271922/image/large-b991006523bd905dbed9b749b4cd42e1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271922">We ask a panel of experts – Bart van der Meer (engineering sailing systems at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/458" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rondal B.V. (Company)">Rondal</a>), Rudy Jurg (sales manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/458" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rondal B.V. (Company)">Rondal</a>), Rob Doyle (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a>), Thys Nikkels (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dykstra Naval Architects (Company)">Dykstra Naval Architects</a>) and Bill Tripp (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dykstra Naval Architects (Company)">Tripp Design</a>) – about the challenges of designing, building and operating a 100-metre sloop.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271904/image/large-0e8d661bb3efb5b36591b231f65ec1e7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271904">Is it possible to create the mast and rigging for a 100-metre sloop that is both safe and Class approved?&nbsp;Bart van der Meer: Yes, it is certainly possible to create a complete rig and sailing system for a yacht of this size. It does, of course, present some interesting challenges, but Rondal has built its reputation on resolving challenges.&nbsp;Rob Doyle: For a 100-metre sloop in terms of length overall, no, it is not possible. For a 100-metre spar height, yes, that is possible. If someone says ’yes’ to a 100-metre LOA yacht they are out of their depth and have not fully researched all the options involved. At RDD we have done a huge amount of research on this question and we are one of the few naval architects and design studios that have an understanding of the complexibility of such a big rig. Class approval would be difficult, but they will lean hard on the naval architect’s calculations, research and experience.&nbsp;Thys Nikkels: When we are pushing boundaries with any aspect of a design the answer is always ‘Do your homework!’ If you do not have experience with a certain size or configuration you have to do the necessary research and development to prove the design is feasible. Feasible in concept, safe in construction and safe in operation, only then can you tell a client that it is possible, and to do that you have to work with a team of researchers, material specialists, builders to find the required solutions for the challenges.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/108433/image/large-6f7ee4bb350c7e7604865e0774d55463.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/108433">Are there any suppliers who would take the risk of building such a yacht?Bart van der Meer: We have already built three impressive 70-metre-plus &nbsp;rigs and are currently planning a large rig for an 85-metre sloop, which will become one of the world’s largest.Rob Doyle: There are two really only two manufacturers that can build big rigs. Rigging would be another significant difficulty, along with winches, systems, furling, hull structures, regulations and more.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271932/image/large-fe57b0ec686c9fcbbe3f0f91922d0a1d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271932">Even if you could build it, would it be safe to operate for the crew?Bart van der Meer: Given the exceptional loads, risk factors for the crew are already an important factor in planning sailing systems for today’s largest sailing yachts, especially when racing. These loads and the sheer length and weight of running rigging do increase exponentially when looking at a rig for a 100-metre sloop. But we should keep in mind that, at this end of the superyacht fleet, only the most highly qualified and experienced crew would manage and trim the sail plan. They would do so with access to very sophisticated load sensors and safety triggers to ensure loads and risks remain within the design boundaries. There is also the possibility that these big rigs could be operated fully automatically. Especially as the cost related to fully automating a sailing system becomes smaller in comparison to the overall cost. However, this route could present new challenges of its own until fully proven.Rob Doyle: We will always design rigs with safe operation in mind, the numbers involved are huge and operation of a sail plan of this size would be very difficult, if not impossible. The size of the systems to control such a rig are significant and very detailed research is required, the sparmakers can build very big rigs – the limit is the yacht not the spar tube.&nbsp;Thys Nikkels: In the end, a large sloop will only work for the client if it can be safely and relatively easily operated by the crew. Otherwise the rig will never, or only sporadically, be used.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/236181/image/large-38e23873797382eff5e629953f24cb77.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/236181">Have you had any requests for such a large project and do you expect that one day a client will decide to build one?Rudy Jurg: We have already been introduced to enquiries and concepts of this size that for one reason or another have yet to progress. I have little doubt that 100-metre-plus rigs will be built in the future. The first one will be commissioned by a very ambitious and visionary individual with deep pockets. Once this client’s project is afloat, others are more likely to follow.&nbsp;Rob Doyle: Yes, we have had requests for such yachts a number of times. What we explain first is that the jump from 78-metre M5 to a sloop with a spar length of 100 metres is enormous. If you have not designed and built big rigs before, then a client is very exposed. At RDD we have designed more big rigs, both sloop and ketches, than many other naval architects, but the numbers are staggering when you present the research and the real build numbers. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272049/image/large-6060ad9c10f61da7535208d03e662ce4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272049">What are the cost implications of building a 100-metre sloop compared with a schooner of similar size?&nbsp;Bart van der Meer: One of the biggest cost implications is that most of the hardware needs to be designed from scratch for the sloop. Nothing on this scale is readily available on the market: no furlers, no toggles, no winches. And it needs to be designed not just bigger, but exponentially bigger. Take a runner winch, for example. From a 30-metre sloop to a 60-metre sloop, the retrieving length will double and the pull force goes from roughly 10 to 30 tonnes. If you want to be able to retrieve the runners at the same time, you’ll need four times more winch power to double the speed and more than double the force.&nbsp;When you recall it was considered doubtful if you could fly a spinnaker from the mast of a 100-foot sloop 30 years ago, we can see that the evolution of marine design technology has always innovated to address such issues. The expertise is there to make the rig of a 100-metre sloop happen, &nbsp;as long as it is accepted that substantial system development costs as well as the hardware manufacturing costs will bear heavily on the first project. For these reasons, it will certainly cost more than the rig of a 100-metre schooner or ketch.Rob Doyle: Hard questions because if you want to be the tip of the sword, a visionary owner that wants to reach for the stars and build the biggest sloop. But you may need to ask yourself: is the ketch a better option at the 100-metre LOA size?<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/236173/image/large-d089b6d8c8cd89662da7e3fc43a4f62c.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/236173">Given all the factors above and from your own experience, what is the ideal size for a super-sloop?Rudy Jurg: It is difficult to say there is an ideal size, though we do know that the ‘ideal’ size keeps on growing as larger yachts prove their reliability and their capacity to deliver exceptional lifestyle experiences and amenities to owners and their guests. Ultimately the ‘ideal’ will always be related to owners’ plans, their financial resources, their vision and ambition.Rob Doyle: I believe an 85-metre LOA sloop would be the limit, but there are different factors at play that have to be understood and it's more about the length/beam ratio than LOA, which would be a more suitable metric to start with. On the limit of tube lengths, you need to ask the spar maker for that number, but we are comfortable with the tube lengths we have spoken to clients and sparmakers about.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>.

Ask the Expert: Is a 100-metre sloop feasible or even desirable?

SYT asked a panel of experts about the challenges of designing, building and operating a 100-metre sloop.


The 23.98-metre eponymous <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless Yachts (Company)">Timeless</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8491" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless23.98m (78'8&quot;)Timeless Yachts2018">Timeless</a> sold at auction with broker Arjen Hoeksma of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/9" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Valk Yacht Brokers (Company)">De Valk Yacht Brokers</a> and auction organiser Wim Schimmel of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6345" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtBid.com (Company)">YachtBid</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273147/image/large-9cdf3e8827b28f7ea267985a8939a44e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273147">The custom-built explorer yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8491" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless23.98m (78'8&quot;)Timeless Yachts2018">Timeless</a> was built and launched in 2018 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless Yachts (Company)">Timeless Yachts</a> in Poland. The aluminium motor yacht is equipped with two decks of luxury and features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1993" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Studio Strawinski (Company)">Yacht Studio Strawinski</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259773/image/large-b5267efe59a0c30aa7a699a187b7d97e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259773"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259774/image/large-ab9b68e33c321344cb59fb6a8743d69d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259774"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8491" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless23.98m (78'8&quot;)Timeless Yachts2018"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259762/image/large-57d8a09a47d3724e8c7a7fce6d39f2cd.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259762">Timeless</a> can comfortably sleep up to eight guests across a four stateroom layout and offers a timeless interior design with a neutral colour palette. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273148/image/large-3609236d22317356cee5295f47d2664f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273148"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259759/image/large-aa11e0dc64737a8b5f7dce57ed28dd8b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259759">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8491" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless23.98m (78'8&quot;)Timeless Yachts2018">Timeless</a> is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1483" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cummins Inc. (Company)">Cummins</a> engines, giving her a top speed of 12 knots. At the time of her sale, Timeless had a starting price at auction of €1,000,000.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259755/image/large-02ecfdb667ba2ce773a4ca8f5b226f4d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259755">

Explorer yacht Timeless sold at auction

The 24m Timeless yacht Timeless sold at auction with a last known starting price of €1,000,000. 

24m explorer yacht Timeless sold at auction

The 29-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/886" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Intermarine Savannah (Company)">Intermarine</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5543" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lukousaurus29.0m (95'2&quot;)Intermarine Savannah2001">Lukousaurus</a>&nbsp;previously named Krishelle, has been sold with Matthew Martin of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> representing the buyer and Peter Jeisey of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Grand Isle Marina (Company)">Grand Isle Marina</a> representing the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273152/image/large-8bdac6b289c8e1c258b395ba718419e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273152">The flybridge yacht was delivered in 2001 and is the ninth-largest yacht built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/886" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Intermarine Savannah (Company)">Intermarine</a>. She features interior design by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/150" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pavlik Design Team (Company)">Pavlik Design Team</a>. Up to six guests are accommodated onboard the superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5543" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lukousaurus29.0m (95'2&quot;)Intermarine Savannah2001">Lukousaurus</a>, and she also has accommodation for three crew members including the captain. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273153/image/large-e19fce349a3584a61a2c665c9a9f1831.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273153"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273154/image/large-242b61559360d3226ed6fe6523d3c6fa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273154">The flybridge yacht is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, which give her a top speed of 22 knots. The yacht carries 15,991 litres of fuel onboard.Her last known asking price was $1,595,000.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/190630/image/large-ff93ff09df2c68c6b6c73caaba78150a.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/190630">

29m Intermarine flybridge yacht Lukousaurus sold

The 29-metre Intermarine flybridge yacht Lukousaurus has sold with Fraser representing the buyer and Grand Isle Marina representing the seller

29m Intermarine motor yacht Lukousaurus sold

The 24.73-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11965" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alin24.73m (81'2&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2010">Alin</a> has been sold in an in-house deal with Marco Fiorani of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4585" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Idea Yachting (Company)">Idea Yachting</a> representing both the buyer and the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218596/image/large-864486f9b85dfc9372a38a171aada1a7.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218596"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218588/image/large-4f519970c2f52d94910802cae0667114.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218588"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218589/image/large-bcdefded288920af83581702979a0482.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218589">The motor yacht was delivered in 2010 and 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>, while her interior was also penned 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/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti Yachts</a>. Up to eight guests are accommodated onboard the superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11965" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alin24.73m (81'2&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2010">Alin</a>, and she also has accommodation for four crew members, including the captain. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11965" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alin24.73m (81'2&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2010"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218586/image/large-4449acff63ccec040b780eff05b8cac6.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218586"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218600/image/large-45c738fb1fdab4085b2281a5faca0250.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218600">Alin </a>has a grp hull and grp superstructure. She 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 give her a cruising speed of 27 knots and a top speed of 30 knots. The yacht carries 6,750 litres of fuel onboard, and 1,320 litres of water.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218603/image/large-4fd75083ae73aa12dd93762a1fd8522c.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218603">Her last known asking price was €2,200,000.

25m Ferretti motor yacht Alin sold

24.73-metre Ferretti motor yacht Alin has sold with Marco Fiorani of Idea Yachting, representing both the buyer and the seller.

The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/176" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta - 2023">Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta</a> got off to a perfect start yesterday. A north-easterly breeze of about 7 knots intensified, as expected, to around 12 knots and rotated towards the southeast over the course of the day. At 1 p.m. the Race Committee sounded the start for the 45-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/476" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fitzroy Yachts (Company)">Fitzroy Yachts</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1684" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gitana45.0m (147'8&quot;)Fitzroy Yachts2009">Gitana</a> was the first superyacht off the line in the staggered starting sequence. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273210/image/large-1ca68fcebecb25729ddbe561c9b9ef4c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273210">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> division started their races at 1:30 p.m and the SW105 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10474" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SØRVIND34.59m (113'6&quot;)Southern Wind2022">Sørvind</a> quickly flew ahead of the fleet. Both divisions started in Porto Cervo before rounding the island of Monaci. After leaving the Monaci lighthouse to port, the superyacht division sailed up the coast of the island of Caprera and entered the Saline gulf, where they left a mark to port before returning to Porto Cervo via the Bisce Pass, for a total of approximately 20 miles.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273214/image/large-9e5198223ed71b0cf766b8e8ad9b612a.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273214">Until the first mark, the Wallycento <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V30.48m (100'0&quot;)Wally2017">V</a> remained at the back of the fleet, but took a close line around the Monaci island, jibbing ahead of the fleet and taking a steady lead on the race to the island of Caprera. The superyacht's lead steadily grew throughout the afternoon, with the rest of the fleet behind her. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273213/image/large-9cad2daf9a17b1b42df2cf63f9c4f266.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273213">The first day saw the 33-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic</a> 108 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4749" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="WinWin33.04m (108'5&quot;)Baltic Yachts2014">WinWin</a> take victory in the Superyacht Cruising Class division, followed by another 108-footer in the form of Inoui, with owner-helmsman and regular participant in the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta, Marco Vogele, on board. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4020" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Inoui33.4m (109'7&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2013">Inoui</a> fought for most of the course with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5680" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pattoo33.0m (108'3&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2016">Pattoo</a>, another 33-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters</a> yacht which already has a win in Porto Cervo under her belt, when she was known as Missy. The Wallycento <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V30.48m (100'0&quot;)Wally2017">V</a>, meanwhile, claimed the top spot in the Combined Performance and Cruising Class, finishing the race by a 2 minute corrected lead, having started last in the staggered starting sequence.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273215/image/large-d39a3ba7e0942006f83c4c4454284d09.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273215">Ken Read, multi-award winning sailor and tactician on the Wallycento <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V30.48m (100'0&quot;)Wally2017">V</a>, declared: "We couldn't have asked for a better day here in Porto Cervo. Sunshine, flat seas and a gentle breeze of 12 knots, a perfect situation for these boats. The beauty of this place always amazes me and sailing here with these boats is a unique experience, they let me have a few moments in which to look around and smile, because honestly there is nothing more beautiful than all this."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273216/image/large-8fefcfc59674712fada243c28e3a3226.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273216">Results aren't drawn up for the boats taking part in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> Rendezvous, reflecting the particularly convivial atmosphere that reigns at this gathering, now in its 17th edition. The fleet sailed in a compact group and the owners were able to enjoy the same course as the Superyacht division. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273212/image/large-5876fe1fa0da0cc510c8beaa12159f3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273212">Racing continues today, 8th June, with a breeze similar to today's forecast. The start for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> Rendezvous division is scheduled for 11:30 a.m, followed by the Superyacht division at around midday. Organised by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (Company)">Yacht Club Costa Smeralda</a> with the support of title sponsor Giorgio Armani, the event is is now in its 16th edition.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273211/image/large-293abf27b8bbaa226731cc42ce1438a7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273211">

Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2023 day 1

The Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta began yesterday with wallycento V taking the day.

Wallycento V takes the first day at the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273033/image/large-666e4cc9afe6511029b40f19c9037df1.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273033">Spotted last week anchored in Antibes is the 91.5-metre Ice-Classed superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4018" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tranquility91.5m (300'2&quot;)Oceanco2014">Tranquility</a>. Previously known as Equanimity, the true world exploration vessel was delivered in 2014 as one of the largest vessels in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> fleet. She features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/37" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture (Company)">Azure Yacht Design &amp; Naval Architecture</a>, elegant exterior lines by her builder and an oriental-inspired interior penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch Design</a>. Onboard, the 2,998 GT superyacht can accommodate up to 18 guests and comes complete with a helicopter landing pad, a large swimming pool as well as a gym and wellness centre. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4018" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tranquility91.5m (300'2&quot;)Oceanco2014">Tranquility</a> is currently listed for sale with an asking price of €149,900,000. She's also available for charter with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a>. Take a closer look <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/53489" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Five coolest things to do on board Tranquility (2021-08-09 12:00:00 +0200)">onboard here</a>.

92m superyacht Tranquility in Antibes

The 92m superyacht Tranquility, built by Oceanco, is seen here anchored in Antibes.

The 60.96-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> has entered the market. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/samadhi/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Samadhi, for sale</a>, was commissioned by experienced owners and has been maintained to the highest standards, leaving her in turnkey condition for her new owner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273156/image/large-2c77f3d6b7f8fdd330e353849437c5d4.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273156"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> features exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/30" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Voogt Naval Architects (Company)">De Voogt</a> and has recently completed an extensive refit in May 2023. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> also boasts a contemporary interior design by the highly sought after French designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rémi Tessier (Company)">Rémi Tessier</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273158/image/large-daf86144ea0b19cb956ee874b7754b56.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273158"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273159/image/large-adec3172a22e865e28c8d3070c512713.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273159"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273157/image/large-1e3332a9b18c44c3df3d068ddc655e8b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273157"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> offers guests 1,036 GT of interior space, and her large main saloon is bathed in plenty of natural light, thanks to picture windows that line her port and starboard lengths. Forward of this area is her dining area with seating for up to 10 guests around her circular table.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273162/image/large-2d911aa5f2a0856d787122b4cb1aa167.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273162"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273177/image/large-264c62eef56c98f56303d6288e1989a8.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273177">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests across a six stateroom configuration, with her owner's suite located on the main deck. The master suite includes an office, handcrafted wardrobes and a luxurious marble ensuite bathroom with sauna, tub and shower.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273171/image/large-c621da269dc4ea50fb1c4dced4019861.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273171"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273174/image/large-84aec8bfe616f2046337931e5012c871.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273174"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273176/image/large-b596e1f6e6e7754e15b7c2280ec1019b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273176">The remaining guest staterooms are situated on the lower deck and consist of two double staterooms and two convertible twins, all with ensuite bathrooms. There is also an additional stateroom which is suited for children, or staff such as a nanny.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273160/image/large-e2c84bd8b93d3fe3b758bd7269e3ec1f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273160"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273163/image/large-612f41f03323e071ae2748d6a455233d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273163"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> features plenty of exterior spaces, perfect for entertaining or socialising. Her skylounge includes a cinema room, which connects to the upper deck alfresco dining area. Other key amenities onboard include a fully equipped gym and a packed toy box with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3030" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cayago AG / Seabob (Company)">Seabobs</a>, Jet Skis, a waterslide, trampoline and an assortment of diving and snorkelling gear.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273190/image/large-851a140faf30ccfb125082e9b96c2749.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273190">=<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273185/image/large-9531e439140a8edab685ed3224e3da9d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273185">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/feadship/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Feadship yacht for sale</a> comes equipped with a fleet of three tenders, including a 2022 VQ45 Vanquish Chase Tender, for making the most of shore excursions. Her large swim platform can be accessed via an elegant staircase from her main deck aft, providing direct access to the ocean.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273183/image/large-74464d8cd571349b577653afd6581fdb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273183"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273180/image/large-41386f76e1b27af67eff31db061e2466.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273180"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273186/image/large-24c36e7130e14a893e34b288b6cf4503.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273186">The upper deck of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> allows guests to relax with panoramic views, as well as shade from her hard top. Guests can also make use of her sun deck to top up their tans, or lounge in her raised Jacuzzi.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273193/image/large-8269ab0b4f2d5f0ec316199d0e6b7060.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273193"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273192/image/large-fd51a7a58b480155bd334683868986f3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273192">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines allowing her to reach a top speed of 16 knots and cruise at 13 knots with an ocean-crossing range of 5,000 nautical miles.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273196/image/large-20f17d6a3243cb9faa310ba269b1a045.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273196">

61m Feadship superyacht Samadhi for sale

The 61m Feadship superyacht Samadhi has entered the market in turnkey condition. 

SuperYacht Times&nbsp;recently sat down with Founder and Director, Edward Thomas, to discuss his <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GymMarine (Company)">Gym Marine Yachts &amp; Interiors</a> business and why people should include it on their superyacht.Give us the elevator pitch: What does&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GymMarine (Company)">Gym Marine&nbsp;Yachts and Interiors</a>&nbsp;do?<a href="#managed-by-system" title="GymMarine (Company)" data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6329" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"></a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GymMarine (Company)"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GymMarine (Company)">Gym Marine</a> is a specialist retailer and designer of wellness spaces. We design and sell equipment ranging from gym equipment to spa equipment, to well-being equipment such as yoga and Pilates kits. Our origins are in yachting, however, a vast percentage of our work is also on land within the hospitality and residential industries. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195372/image/large-c7e3243d3927788f20ee47af792e0c0b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195372">What makes&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GymMarine (Company)">Gym Marine&nbsp;Yachts and Interiors</a>&nbsp;different?&nbsp; We stand out because we are totally independent experts. We work incredibly hard to craft the equipment and designs around the customers to ensure that these are tailored to them and come from an unbiased standpoint in terms of brand and selection. The fitness market is full of the craziest gadgets and fads, but our value proposition is based around crafting extremely useful and sensible spaces that will stand the test of time. All of our customers, no matter what business they’re in, appreciate the superyacht level of service we provide. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195365/image/large-61dd6cc33763bfb376af253e5204cd63.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195365">Tell us your entrepreneur story When I left school, I went and worked as yacht crew for both motor and sailing yachts and finished up as a chief officer. During that time, I found that the service offering for gyms was really light. Between 2010-2013, wellness and health were becoming massive global phenomena and more charter guests and owners were concerned about how they would maintain their wellness regimes on board.&nbsp;You might have a sports star coming on who wanted a treadmill for the trip, and when we got it on board, it wouldn’t be right, or they would barely use it, and then we wouldn’t be sure what to do with it at the end of the charter. Addressing these issues prompted me to start the business in 2014, and we now offer equipment rentals for charter which are phenomenally successful. On a personal level, starting the business was also about wanting a change in lifestyle from being crew, whilst still being able to travel to all the places I want to. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195370/image/large-9c02c942a0ce4454e73697ae1a0aee52.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195370">Is yachting slow to innovate? Not at all. In the industry, we are blessed with clients who are exceptionally wealthy and are willing to try new things, so we have the opportunity to experiment with new technologies, materials and working methods long before the mainstream marketplace.&nbsp;On the flip side, one of the biggest challenges for us is trying not to look costly. People see yachting and assume we must be really expensive, but we’re not. We don’t charge anything for our consulting service. Our PR firm uses this line which they think is very funny: “The world’s leading gym designer doesn’t charge for his services.” The challenge is innovating and coming up with something that you can’t get anywhere else, without it appearing to be ludicrously expensive. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195363/image/large-662dbc2541ac8890e70a9c22a03f4da1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195363">Lots of entrepreneurs fail. Why didn’t you?&nbsp; We've got a great niche and have stayed true to our roots. One of my biggest inspirations in business is James Watt, founder of the beer brand BrewDog. He always talks about thinking small and not getting distracted by the big picture. When businesses stop thinking about their value proposition and become fixated on graphs, finance, scaling and HR, they can lose sight of what matters.&nbsp;When we first started the business, it was just me walking up and down the docks trying to deliver the amazing service I’d learned about as yacht crew, and that’s what has got us where we are today: we will have a turnover of more than two million euros this year.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195369/image/large-430a21e194990f5d8f867379d1795eba.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195369">How has the pandemic affected businesses globally? &nbsp; This traumatic economic incident has prompted a complete reset in thinking, with new opportunities and markets emerging. People are thinking more about health and well-being, virtual work and the green economy. We’ve had a chance to step back and see the positive impact we can have on the world by slowing down and becoming more localised.&nbsp;Through <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GymMarine (Company)">Gym Marine</a>’s Green Wings Challenge, we have offset three and a half million kilometres of yachting industry air travel from 2019. Plus, with more meetings being conducted virtually in the industry, this brings down travel costs which can be a significant barrier to entry for startups. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195366/image/large-c9f5470b4e850aa83fe3da46b2fafeae.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195366">Finally, your top tips for budding entrepreneurs My main tip is that in yachting it pays to be a good bloke – or the female equivalent! Think with a bit of empathy, putting yourself in the other person’s shoes and try to understand the pressures they are under. Yachting is very often B2B2C, and the person you’re speaking to might be getting pressures from the owner. We always ensure that we are acting in the way we’d like to be treated as a business and that goes a long way in maintaining our reputation as a great company to deal with. Always stay true to yourself and the reasons why you started the business in the first place.&nbsp;This article was originally published in the&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/52833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The SuperYacht Times summer issue has landed (2021-05-03 17:00:00 +0200)">Summer&nbsp;2021 issue of The SuperYacht Times newspaper.</a>&nbsp;To receive all future issues straight to your door, <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/" target="_blank">subscribe to the newspaper here</a>.

Founder of Gym Marine Edward Thomas

Edward Thomas, Founder & Director of Gym Marine, tells SuperYacht Times how he keeps his cool in business.

Investments & Expansions

Gym Marine Group launches sister company Coral Spa Consultants