With the 2016 Rio Olympics on the horizon and Yachts Miami Beach drawing to a close yesterday in which scores of Latin American owners attend annually, in the latest issue of the SuperYacht Times we take an in-depth look at the Latin American superyacht industry. Here, Marjolein Vleugel considers Latin American superyacht buyers.

With a 4% decrease in GDP over the past five years but an ever increasing Ultra High Net Worth population and order book, the Latin American region turns out to be a relatively unstable yet altogether promising superyacht environment in which to operate. Whereas some Latin American countries such as Brazil and Mexico have already developed a more educated approach towards the superyacht market, other nations are still lacking an embedded yachting culture.

Research from SuperYacht iQ has shown that more than 50 superyachts over 40 metres are owned by Latin Americans, so the overall regional potential is definitely present and growing with skyrocketing visitor numbers on local boat shows in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Panama City and Cartagena. Hand in hand with this growing demand for vessels in the region comes the development of marine related infrastructure and services, and Brazil has proven to be a main facilitator of such.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/158566/image/large-3f0eea5aa11fd5b80e37b98965b8a62d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158566">

The increase in international offices in the region not only helps to increase and strengthen the Latin American market, but is also much better suited to the Latin American way of conducting business. The few industry professionals present in the region build up close, personal relationships with their clients. As Vasco Buonpensiere, Sales and Marketing Director at Cantiere delle Marche, comments in direct regards to brokers, they “normally have very close relationships with the yacht owners in their country. It is a relatively small circle, and good brokers are very much into it, very often serving the same families for years and years.”

Latin America clients also have their own set of preferential criteria when it comes to the design and build of a brand new yacht. Buonpensiere says that CDM’s Latin American clients “always have very clear ideas about the brands to use (the great majority being Italian)... Generally speaking, they are real lovers of life at sea and entertainment on board. The more mature the owners are, the more they are attracted by three deck yachts, with great attention to space and comfortable areas to prepare and enjoy great food and wine.”

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/158567/image/large-035981167f0f6548529720114b8e5ca2.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158567">

Fabio Ermetto, COO at Benetti, expands on the point Buonpensiere makes in regards to space on board, elaborating: “They use yachts in a Mediterranean style and therefore they need a lot of open space. [Latin Americans] enjoy life outside and close to the water, Also, for this reason, stern beach clubs are very popular.”

This last statement from Ermetto regarding the likeness of Latin American yacht owners to those of the Mediterranean is clearly a contested stereotype, as Gianluca Poerio, CEO of Sand People Communication, points out. He says, “People tend to think about Latin America consumers like Mediterranean yacht consumers. It’s not true… Caribbean areas are, in a way, more ‘Mediterranean’ in the way they use a yacht, but huge South American coastlines requires different yacht capabilities.”

With an increasing amount of industry activity within Latin America in regards to shows, brokers and international yachting brands, questions in regards to the actual cruising conditions of the region still remain relatively unanswered. As Gianluca Poerio states, there are 1,000s of kilometres stretching the coast of Latin America - but it still fails to be a superyacht hotspot.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/158568/image/large-4ab95f6a86f99eaffd970faffd63b6b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158568">

Of the many reasons why the area has failed to unlock its many levels of potential, Poerio continues, is due to the lack of infrastructure in the area - though he notes that this is slowly but surely starting to develop in various Latin countries. “There is a lack of serious infrastructures. I'm talking about a good distribution of full service marinas for yachts over 80’. At the moment just Brazil and Mexico have a decent number and decent quality - as well as a part of Uruguay in the Montevideo and Punta de l'Este regions. Brazil has now BR Marinas in development and Mexico, Panama and Puerto Rico with IGY Marinas.”

According to Gianluca Poerio, Latin American superyacht owners prefer to cruise in their territorial waters but it is the government and this consequential lack of infrastructure that makes it impossible for them to do so. A first step towards being a more superyacht friendly region he says, would be by having more flexible yacht friendly rules, especially regarding chartering.

In regards to the future of yachting culture. the market in Latin America will probably continue to develop as it has already over the past 15 years, but then mainly in the less ‘knowledgeable’ Latin American countries such as Colombia, Panamá, Chile, Argentina and Guatemala. From an economic perspective, many expect a slight backslide as some local currencies strongly devalued against the American dollar over the past 12 months. Others expect the superyacht market to continue increasing in South America because of the ever growing UHNWI population, although they admit that the region definitely needs improvements of facility, tax regulation and user restriction in order to make Latin America an attractive cruising destination, living up to its full potential.

The full article is featured in the latest issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper. Subscriptions are available <a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/" target="_blank">here</a>.

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Insight: A closer look at the Latin American superyacht market

For owner Paul Andrews, the search for the right yacht was a journey that spanned more than a decade. However, when he first came across the 25.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/121" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palmer Johnson Yachts (Company)">Palmer Johnson</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> online, something about her caught his attention. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394762/image/large-d54e9461baa90d5794ad964df495e456.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394762">“I first saw her in a video while I was searching for yachts,” he explained. “She was located in Thailand at the time, which was quite literally on the other side of the world from me, but her presence immediately stood out.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394534/image/large-bfddc47ecaf6a83efc8300953b5b19d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394534">Originally launched in 1967, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> was the largest aluminium hulled sailing yacht in the world when she first hit the water. Built as a classic world cruising yacht, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> had circumnavigated the world three times, with voyages to the Antarctic and Arctic regions when she entered the market in 2022. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394541/image/large-c96b4ebc0ab5a9453459421e627799d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394541">“The beam, the proportions and the sheer character of the yacht caught my attention straight away,” recalled Andrews. “I wasn’t specifically searching for a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/121" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palmer Johnson Yachts (Company)">Palmer Johnson</a>, but when she was built, she was engineered to a commercial, almost military-grade standard and built to navy specs, which gave her a genuine pedigree, strength and a fascinating story behind her.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394543/image/large-0b87ef55ef9559c3dc95e76eca2db6c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394543">However, when Andrews finally travelled to Thailand to inspect the yacht in person, the initial impression was far from ideal. “It was raining heavily and she looked tired and neglected.” But returning the following day to see the yacht in clear conditions revealed a completely different vessel. “Her lines were beautiful and the potential became obvious. She simply needed vision and attention.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394544/image/large-f191bd60c4deb3732c009830efb76fc3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394544">In 2015 under the ownership of her previous owners, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> had started a refit programme spanning more than $1 million, which lasted five years and saw her receive a full teak interior refit. “It was clear that previous owners had already invested heavily in the yacht,” added Andrews. “The teak interior joinery was exceptional and the hull structure was sound. However, the layout did not fully make use of the yacht’s size.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394540/image/large-3bd64f4dfb231598384875f28fc57a05.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394540">With the help of Martin Holmes and his team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2262" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lee Marine International Brokerage (Company)">Lee Marine</a>, Andrews took a boat from Langkawi, Malaysia where he purchased <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> and started the process of refitting her in Phuket. “My vision was always to maximise the yacht without taking away the character that makes Firebird special,” he explained. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394689/image/large-066bcffa01ddea4816fadbefefba6fb6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394689">“Rather than remove that character, the refit focused on respecting the craftsmanship already onboard, while improving the functionality and layout for modern cruising. So the very first thing I wanted to do was lay a completely new teak deck.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394684/image/large-59c92dfa1c2c4dfaf499558c82520e13.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394684">The refit saw beautifully laid teak installed throughout, which instantly transformed her appearance and the feeling underfoot. From here, Andrews had a large swim platform and gangway at the stern installed for easy access, as well as an alfresco dining area for 12, with a large three-metre teak L-shaped sofa added and a circular seating area for eight at her stern.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394683/image/large-ccd9dbe381bbc98da19e89f67500eafb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394683">Additional work saw her saloon and guest staterooms reworked to create a larger and more comfortable interior, while technical works included the installation of a new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raymarine UK Ltd (Company)">Raymarine</a> navigation suite, electric furling systems and the recommissioning of her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1497" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Detroit Diesel (Company)">Detroit Diesel</a> engine and generators.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394537/image/large-a9744df0db0cb9126710320c8ad8f685.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394537">&nbsp;“I was involved in every stage of the project!” beamed Andrews. “Working alongside skilled craftsmen in Thailand allowed the ideas I had for the yacht to be executed properly.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394682/image/large-6c7c43f1ab3dc6151b36ef4b9e0c6d90.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394682">“The region has an impressive concentration of marine specialists including riggers, carpenters, sailmakers and marine engineers. The quality of teak craftsmanship in Thailand is also exceptional and the cost of skilled labour is significantly lower than in many other parts of the world. By chance I also discovered a local boat carpenter whose family had been building boats in the region for generations. His team worked tirelessly and played a crucial role in transforming the yacht.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394536/image/large-a684c5dbb17405c08f59b474c49fe63e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394536">A large portion of the refit work was carried out at Premier Superyacht Shipyard near <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Haven Marina (Company)">Yacht Haven Marina</a> in Phuket. The yard operates an 890-tonne travel lift and regularly handles vessels significantly larger than <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a>, so during her haul-out, hull works, repainting, mechanical servicing and installation of the bow thruster were completed at the yard. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394535/image/large-fe228dc87c3eb4c006007450d0644190.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394535">The refit started almost immediately after Andrews had stepped onboard and he remained involved throughout the process. “After studying the layout of an <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> 85, I realised it might be possible to alter the companionway arrangement and open access to unused space within the yacht. By cutting through the bulkhead at the end of the galley we created a new passageway that allowed an entirely new guest stateroom to be built.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394687/image/large-2e193db0a4b19958ca9e5ecb0fbbb3b1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394687">The result allowed for unused areas to be converted into additional guest accommodation, while maintaining the logical flow through her companionway and saloon areas. Thanks to this, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> is now able to comfortably accommodate up to 13 guests, while still feeling spacious. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394691/image/large-d359643ead180961dcf469e992df6a3a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394691">“The onboard experience is exceptional now! <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> is incredibly comfortable and she has become a wonderful place to spend time. I have several comfortable homes on land, but I genuinely did not expect living aboard a yacht to feel this enjoyable.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394775/image/large-19d12ff20ebf8798893858104887e523.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394775">From a technical standpoint the most important upgrade was the installation of a Max Power bow thruster. At 71 tonnes, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> is not a small yacht and the thruster significantly improved manoeuvrability for docking. Paired with electric furling systems, her sails can now be easily controlled from the cockpit, &nbsp;which means the yacht can be sailed comfortably by a small crew. “Together with the bow thruster and upgraded navigation systems, the yacht is now far easier and safer to operate,” added Andrews.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394782/image/large-7d015b051a954c975849eb73b943caa0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394782">Currently available for charter, Andrews noted that there had already been interest from charter clients in the Seychelles and the Maldives. “It would feel rather selfish to keep such a yacht entirely to myself! Our goal is to have her operating in the Greek islands by 2027.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394781/image/large-71d773016ba60ca5be3610663cfc2a04.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394781">The refit took approximately 18 months to complete, with the project bringing the yacht a new lease of life. “I have restored historic buildings and classic cars before, but <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> has been the most rewarding project of them all! Working on her felt almost like giving a living vessel a new chapter in her life. I feel incredibly privileged to have been part of that transformation.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394773/image/large-89483fb30e91ef0842117ed871bea925.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394773">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> has had an extraordinary life with many different owners over the decades, with each leaving their own mark on the vessel,” concluded Andrews. “If I had to describe her in just a few words, I would say she is an iconic, unique superyacht and I hope she continues to bring joy to many future owners and guests.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394763/image/large-26cc3acdb14ea54697eb754a850e1393.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394763">

Firebird: 26m Palmer Johnson yacht refit

Inside the 18-month Thai refit that transformed the 26m Palmer Johnson sailing yacht Firebird into a modern cruising yacht.

Firebird reborn: Behind the Thai refit of a classic 26m yacht

Leona Caanen sits down with Rick and Rebecca Szelc, the owners of the 122’&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta Marine</a>&nbsp;motor yacht&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4666" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Probabilty37.2m (122'1&quot;)Delta Marine1997">Probability</a>, to learn more about their love for the sea, their adventures onboard the 37-metre, and why she’s for sale.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/382924/image/large-2b32f2fc69c7bc21ae4c70cda2218e36.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/382924">A love for the waterWhile growing up in vastly different places, Rick in the Great Lakes area and Rebecca along the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic, the two share a deep love for the water. “Growing up,” Rick shares, “I was always fresh water boating with boats under 30 feet.” Rebecca, instead, could be found (spear)fishing, snorkelling, or at the beach: “I fished off the beach, off of bridges, anywhere. I developed a love for it.”&nbsp;When not fishing, Rebecca spent much of her childhood snorkelling and scuba diving, obtaining her PADI certificate at just 12 years old. “I’m fascinated not just by the fish, but by the corals and reefs and the entire underwater environment. It brings you such peace and calm,” adding that &nbsp;“if I’m near or under the water, that’s when I’m happiest.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395447/image/large-b135c7290df34a505d963856c0579d1a.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395447">For Rick and Rebecca, owning a yacht has always been about sharing their love for the sea with their community. “The yacht allows us to share our passion and love with friends and family in a way that we just couldn’t before,” Rebecca shares, “having grown up with a love for the sea, being on a yacht has only amplified that passion.”Rick shares “what is really joyous in our life is that we have similar passions, we both really enjoy being onboard. The alarm goes off at 5:30 and Rebecca will go fishing, and I’m just up for a cup of coffee”; a serene glimpse into life onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4666" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Probabilty37.2m (122'1&quot;)Delta Marine1997">Probability</a>, their 37-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta Marine</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/382939/image/large-13d291311d75d42e63f6db9ff710acd3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/382939">Purchasing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4666" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Probabilty37.2m (122'1&quot;)Delta Marine1997">Probability</a>The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta Marine</a> isn’t the first yacht that the couple has owned; that would be a 35 Formula. While they didn’t own it for long, acquiring it was eventful enough that the boat hasn’t been forgotten.Living in Texas at the time, on a regular Saturday morning in January 2015, whilst out for breakfast “I threw Rebecca a curveball, as I always do,” Rick laughs. “I said, ‘what would you like to do for the rest of our lives?’ to which she replied, ‘I’d like to order breakfast and not think about the next decades of our lives together.’“ Rick continued his brainstorm, “what if we did something in Naples, Florida?” to which Rebecca laughingly replied, “okay, can I order breakfast now?”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393421/image/large-5f33d7eece57325c28391897d8eef9c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393421">Later that same day, Rick mentioned he had great news, he had purchased the 35 Formula in Naples, Florida. Flying down to Hamilton Harbor, they set out to spend the next few days onboard the new yacht. Unfortunately, that turned out to be the most uncomfortable night of sleep Rick ever had, leading to him putting the boat up for sale.Throughout the next few years, Rick and Rebecca exchanged one model for the next in the journey to find the perfect yacht for their adventures. The 35 Formula was exchanged for a 44 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5727" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tiara Yachts (Company)">Tiara</a>, which was eventually upgraded to a 64’ <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/466" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hatteras Yachts (Company)">Hatteras</a>. Because of the limited space onboard for crew, eventually Rick and Rebecca decided on an 80’ <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/466" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hatteras Yachts (Company)">Hatteras</a>, before exchanging that for the 100’ <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/466" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hatteras Yachts (Company)">Hatteras</a>. Onboard their various vessels, they have explored much of the southern coast of Florida, as well as the Bahamas. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/382944/image/large-9210f5f0dab1395f5343ac08e2c398b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/382944">In 2021, the timing seemed right to step out of yachting. “It’s not about how much the elephant costs, but rather how much you have to feed it,” an acquaintance told Rick. “Rick will now always advise his friends to buy their last yacht first” Rebecca shares. “Don’t buy 10 boats on your way to the last one!” Rick laughs, adding “but we’ve made a lot of brokers very happy over the last ten years; we probably paid for some home down payments and fancy meals as a result of all our boating adventures.”Whilst seriously considering leaving the yachting world and selling the boat, a 122’ <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta Marine</a> in pristine condition came on the market. “It’s a special <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta</a>,” says Rick, “she’s just so beautifully crafted and she has a timeless design.” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta Marine</a> is widely known as the “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> of the US,” says the couple, “we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to purchase her.” She was built in 1997 by the all-American yard and has been properly cared for by her various owners over the years. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284541/image/large-83b17ef9687251543f7916d050dda159.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284541">High probability of adventureWhen coming into ownership of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta Marine</a>, they renamed her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4666" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Probabilty37.2m (122'1&quot;)Delta Marine1997">Probability</a>. “It’s always difficult to name a yacht; you want a name that’s not too long and is easy for when you’re pulling into port,” Rick notes. The reason Rebecca and Rick decided on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4666" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Probabilty37.2m (122'1&quot;)Delta Marine1997">Probability</a>, is because, to them, everything in life has a probability: your friendships, relationships,” shares Rick. “Even in investing, which is my line of business,” he adds, “we make decisions based on 70 percent certainty. Living life means not having perfect information and taking risks.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/382945/image/large-4691d16221dd7aa7aa2f7dac280538eb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/382945">“His philosophy in life is that there are no certainties; it’s just a series of probabilities and it’s how you manage them that determine the outcome” Rebecca says. ”It’s human - we all make decisions and you hope you make good choices, but things happen and life changes course,” Rick adds, “that’s how we came up with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4666" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Probabilty37.2m (122'1&quot;)Delta Marine1997">Probability</a>.”Rick and Rebecca have many happy memories on and in the water, yet some of the highlights have taken place onboard the 37.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta Marine</a>. Specific stand-outs are their trips to the Bahamas, specifically to the Exumas. “I just couldn’t get over the colour of the water and the various shades of blue; every shade of blue you can imagine was there”, Rebecca recalls.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/382930/image/large-6b046cd52c5594a080bb1e1577132b4c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/382930">They were onboard with some friends who had never been to the Bahamas, “one of them was a yoga instructor, so we gathered on the aft deck and she hosted a yoga class while we were anchored in this beautiful water.”Shortly after finishing the yoga flow, the first mate mentioned that there’s a little river running through the mangroves towards a little island that serves as a sanctuary for turtles. Rebecca recalls how “we jumped in our little 17’ dinghy, one of those rigid inflatable boats, and the mate took us on this tour through the mangroves and we came upon so many turtles, I lost count after 55.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395448/image/large-53940afe3e6bdc115b22c2595f1624a6.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395448">That specific tour ended in a little lagoon with a beautiful, white sand beach. “You’re seeing fish and birds and we spent the afternoon snorkelling. It was a perfect day on the water,” Rebecca shares. There is something really joyful about getting to share experiences with friends and loved ones, and sometimes it is these small moments, snippets of a trip, that become stand-out memories.The duo has worked hard to make their yacht feel not just like an adventure vessel they share with friends, but also to make her feel like a home. They’ve decorated the interior spaces with some of the art pieces they love, half a dozen of which have been commissioned specifically for the yacht including pieces by artist Bette Ridgeway. “Art makes a house a home,” Rick shares, “Bette’s paintings fit so perfectly and really add an extra charm, a bit of a newer feeling, to the 1997 yacht.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/382947/image/large-79c7b6b37992a228c650d15b0abcc15e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/382947">A shared passionBeing onboard superyachts didn’t always come naturally, for Rick nor for Rebecca. Rick shares how “both Rebecca and I are self-made; it was unusual to have someone care about me, ask me ‘can I help you?’ - things like that.” After ten years, the couple has gotten the hang of it, “we realised that, what these folks, the crew, do for a living, it’s because they share the same passion that we do.”“Our team, our crew, they want to get off the dock. They don’t want to get paid to sit at Old Port Cove in Palm Beach. They want to go somewhere,” shares Rick. “I really enjoy it when they take the fishing boat out and go diving or spear fishing with us.” Rebecca recalls how, a couple of weeks ago when cruising around the Bahamas, their engineer said ‘this is my happy place’. “When you bring in people and give them a memory, something to share, it shows not just the opportunity of where a vessel can take you, but also of the community out at sea.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/382959/image/large-6174f809cc01abda573d02360838f0f3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/382959">Why sell?“When we bought her five years ago, we didn’t have a home in Harbor Springs nor in Palm Beach, and in those places we have a few smaller boats, so really it came down to how much time we can use it to justify ownership and costs,” shares Rick. While selling <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4666" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Probabilty37.2m (122'1&quot;)Delta Marine1997">Probability</a> is a question of logistics, the couple is focused on enjoying the yacht while still theirs.&nbsp;The hope is that someone will buy <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4666" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Probabilty37.2m (122'1&quot;)Delta Marine1997">Probability</a> who is equally as impressed with the work done by the American shipyard and will care and share the yacht in the same way that Rick and Rebecca have done. The yacht is a labour of love and, when cared for, can embark on many, many more adventures.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/382142/image/large-33d07d628b6c8b865ff523abf68f14c6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/382142">

ownership delta marina probability

The love, passion and purchase of the 122' Delta Marina Probability, currently for sale. 

Rick & Rebecca Szelc of 37m Probability: "It's always been about sharing our love for the sea"

Born into a Romany-Gypsy family in Lutterworth, Leicestershire, is Alfie Best, self-made businessman, father, and owner of the 27-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wyldecrest27.1m (88'11&quot;)Sunseeker2021">Wyldecrest</a>. A life shaped by ambition and an unrelenting belief in self-made success, Alfie Best has managed and navigated various enterprises in the United Kingdom, before eventually passing the baton and settling down in Monaco. Leona Caanen sits down with Alfie to discuss his entrepreneurial journey that eventually led to owning a superyacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394909/image/large-1cc1e789b82e0d5ad527fa41b674b295.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394909">An entrepreneurial spiritOne thing becomes immediately clear about Alfie, is that he is proud of his origins and especially proud of his family. “I come from a very supportive family, as in, I have a very good mother and father, and have an extremely good family now, which has helped me along the way.” For Alfie, life wasn’t always easy, especially growing up as what he describes as a Gypsy; people judge you based on preconceived ideas, rather than who you are. Yet that element seems to have never bothered Alfie, rather it is precisely this that fuels his work ethic.With the odds against him, Alfie built his wealth starting with nothing. At the age of 14, having dropped out of school two years prior, Alfie ran a business buying and selling vans and cars. By the age of 20, his company nearly went bankrupt, but, unafraid to put in work where needed, Alfie picked up a second job in a phone store. Within weeks, he had opened his own store and over time another twelve more. A decade later he exchanged phones for real estate and established the company he is most widely known for: Wyldecrest Parks.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394910/image/large-fa857286131e1bbd6e35e7b6ae3ffe93.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394910">What started as a residential mobile home park, has expanded throughout the entirety of the United Kingdom, with over a 100 mobile parks, for residency and holidays. The expansion across the UK is in part due to Alfie’s daughter, who has taken over the family business. “My daughter runs the Wyldecrest Mobile Home Park, and I’m very, very proud of her, she has taken the reins and ran with it.” His son also works in the family business, but in sharing the name and not wanting to live in his father’s shadow, he has positioned his focus on his own entrepreneurial journey.The parks are specifically designed for people over 50 wishing to enjoy their retirement. “Simply put, we supply affordable homes”, shares Alfie, yet the reality has proven more complicated than that. &nbsp;Running Wyldecrest Parks has not been without its challenges over the years, with the company facing a period of public scrutiny and regulatory hurdles as it expanded.&nbsp;Alfie, however, appears unphased by the criticism, viewing such obstacles as symptomatic of what he sees as the UK’s lack of support for entrepreneurship: “[the UK] encourages socialism, and it doesn’t work because it stops rewarding competition”. Continuing business as always, Alfie’s focus remains on “supplying affordable homes in the United Kingdom. I know all my employees by name, and I love meeting all my residents as often as I can.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394988/image/large-ba1891d28ddb056b75d435af485bd1be.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394988">Sharing the know-howWith his daughter managing the business in the UK, Alfie has focused his energies on his next entrepreneurial venture: Best Wealth Network - a mentoring platform where successful entrepreneurs can share their know-how with others. “Our mission is to provide unparalleled support, resources, and mentorship to help our members,” shares Alfie.The organisation focuses on providing unparalleled support, resources, and mentorship to “help members achieve their financial goals and lead extraordinary lives. We have people who have done it, lived it, earned it, and bear the scars of their experiences,” Alfie shares, emphasising that he seeks to work with individuals who are not just good at what they do, but have also experienced struggles along the way and understand how to navigate challenges.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394906/image/large-f9149d6ef6d4d332a56b13d886968363.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394906"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wyldecrest27.1m (88'11&quot;)Sunseeker2021">Wyldecrest</a>&nbsp;as a businessWith a desire to navigate a new challenge, Alfie embarked on his next big business adventure of running a successful 27-metre charter yacht named <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wyldecrest27.1m (88'11&quot;)Sunseeker2021">Wyldecrest</a>. Both Alfie and the yacht are currently based in Monaco.With the support of both his parents and his children, and an entrepreneurial mindset, Alfie purchased <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wyldecrest27.1m (88'11&quot;)Sunseeker2021">Wyldecrest</a> back in 2022 with the goal of having it primarily operate as a charter vessel. “I purchased the yacht to start a charter business. Of course, I enjoy it too, but I’m careful not to love it too much: I believe that if you fall in love with what you own, it ends up owning you.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394901/image/large-2d2ce23e691ce4f5e9961b046da97c39.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394901">For Alfie, yacht ownership was never solely about indulgence. It was about positioning, branding and the extension of a commercial vision into another arena; he explains, “everything we do is business. It’s a charter vessel. When I go onboard with my family, I pay to use the yacht. We don’t take free vacations on it.”When searching for the right charter yacht, it was clear from the get-go that it had to be a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a>. “It’s been a historic British brand, which, at the time of my purchase, was very important to me. A British brand supporting another British business”, Alfie notes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394904/image/large-e36cf7c2a3ff5d11af7e45d96599b655.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394904">Yet it wasn’t just Alfie’s patriotism that made him pick a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a>, “the workmanship on a Sunseeker is second to none. On <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wyldecrest27.1m (88'11&quot;)Sunseeker2021">Wyldecrest</a>, we have an electronic platform and a truly phenomenal Beach Club that also made the decision to purchase very easy.”Currently, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wyldecrest27.1m (88'11&quot;)Sunseeker2021">Wyldecrest</a> is for charter with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="West Nautical (Company)">West Nautical</a> whilst Alfie is working to expand his fleet, and has already scanned the market for the perfect fit. The next yacht he is in the process of purchasing is “a 155 footer able to cross the Atlantic, so we’ll be able to charter in the Caribbean, the Americas, as well as the South of France and the Mediterranean.” Ultimately, the goal is to have a charter fleet of five yachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394908/image/large-3c5ce969ece65f57218f3a921406ca1b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394908">

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Alfie Best: From Gypsy to superyacht owner

Currently cruising around the Caribbean is the 35.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2614" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tail Lights35.46m (116'4&quot;)Azimut Yachts2011">Tail Lights</a>, owned by tech entrepreneur Lee Mandel. After a recent refit, including a full repaint of the superstructure in a non-metallic grey, this gem is meticulously maintained; mainly due to the diligent care provided by her owner, captain and crew. With over six years of ownership also comes vast experience regarding charter and caring for guests. I got the pleasure to chat with Lee about why <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2614" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tail Lights35.46m (116'4&quot;)Azimut Yachts2011">Tail Lights</a> is so special.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312481/image/large-2d82503d7ec1f9be4b35a5662a388ebe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312481">Tell me a little bit about how you came to own&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2614" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tail Lights35.46m (116'4&quot;)Azimut Yachts2011">Tail Lights</a>“That's a very easy question to answer. I had a technology company for about 20 years, and our main focus in that company was building school safety and security technology. We took the company global over a couple of years, and we probably saved a lot of lives with the technology that we developed in the USA. When I had the opportunity to sell the company in 2019 to help it grow, I took it.&nbsp;At the time, I was about 39 years old, and I said, I need to do something, something different, to keep me busy and motivated. One of my passions outside of work is boating; I've been a boater my entire life. I boated as a kid growing up. I have such found memories with my family and learning how to boat with my grandfather and father. I figured if I was going to take the plunge into yacht ownership, why not turn it into a business? I purchased <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2614" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tail Lights35.46m (116'4&quot;)Azimut Yachts2011">Tail Lights</a> as a true business model.I spoke to a lot of people and experts, they said, ‘Look, this is not a profitable business model.’ Well, then I'm going to be the first one to make it a profitable business model. So that's how it came about. Whenever I go do my annual or semi-annual inspections on the vessel, it brings me back and reminds me how hard I worked to get to this point in my life. It's a passion for me, but it's also something that brings me a lot of pleasure when I see guests having the vacation of their lives and hear the great feedback that guests give me after they have a wonderful time with their families and friends; yachting truly brings them together.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365511/image/large-0fa4c668da228d126c9b500a19bb98b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365511">Then this is much more of an exciting business project for you?“Yes, I call it a passion business. Many yacht owners don't run their yachts as a business; they'll do it for pleasure and hopefully they can get some benefits out of it. I took the opposite approach, for me this is truly a business. When it comes to how you run a business like this, it’s truly the hospitality business at an extreme level. When you run a hospitality business, you've got to be able to analyse what the guests experience and step onboard from time to time: like a secret shopper, so to speak.&nbsp;I'll have different people from different walks of life on the vessel two or three times a year to get an idea of what the experience is like, and give feedback and guidance to my team. This is how we come up with our maintenance periods and determine what needs to be upgraded. When a guest comes on they're not going to necessarily tell you what is wrong. If something is not up to par you may never hear back or they may never book the vessel again. Maybe the issue wasn’t bad enough for them to complain, but it wasn't good enough for them to want to come back. I try to mitigate that by being a secret shopper, or I should say, a secret yachter. I do this to really get an idea of the true guest experience and make sure it's up to par, and make necessary adjustments when needed.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/382796/image/large-a9563b92513a997506375bac60686296.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/382796">Would you say, considering everything you’ve noted, that your business model has been successful?“On average, we do 20 to 25 term charters per year, which is incredible. We focus on maintaining the vessel. When people come on, they say, ‘There's no way this yacht is doing 20 to 25 charters. There's no way this crew or this captain has done this amount of charters.’ This is how I truly measure success.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365512/image/large-464ce55cef09b4d12fe71cb58a12143e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365512">What is your relationship like with the crew?Treating this like a true business, we follow the chain of command: the captain reports directly to me, the crew reports directly to the captain. Captain Sean's been with me for over five years now and he’s an incredible captain; this is a very busy program, and I had to find someone who wants to run and treat it as a business the way I like to run it. Being a captain is not just about driving the yacht, in fact that's the easiest part. Rather, being a captain is like being the COO of a company, and that COO reports directly to me as the CEO of the enterprise. I treat Sean as I do other COOs of my other companies and we have frequent meetings. He also works with my financial team, who handles billing, accounting, purchases, and expenses. Honestly, Sean’s incredible, he brings these guests such pleasure and joy when they have their vacations and the feedback we get is just incredible.There is a book on the vessel, we call it our guest book, where guests can leave feedback or messages. We’ve already filled two of them because every one who steps onboard notes how incredible of a time they’ve had and that they’re eager to come back, or how it brought their family and friends together, or sharing a once in a lifetime experience. Reading these is a great feeling.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/382793/image/large-54de1df21c2bc03a22104a10a924093d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/382793">The formula in yachting I would say is 20 percent the vessel, and 80 percent the crew. The vessel is a means to transport people from point A to point B. You must maintain it, and keep up with it. You have to make sure it's clean and everything's working and operating, which sounds easy, but it's harder than it seems. I would say 80 percent of charter success is the crew: It's all about the crew and how comfortable they make the guests feel. The entire crew is full time. To support the crew we’ve created our own version of a rotational program where we work with the crew to support them and give them ample time off.The crew truly is family to me, and we do our best to treat them as such. Like I said earlier, the success of the program is all about our crew. They are the ones who really put it all together. Captain Sean is a great leader and wonderful at interacting with the guests.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365515/image/large-bfc73ee5ed3088ed4660dabc0a6e2763.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365515">Where does&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2223" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="HMY Yacht Sales (Company)">HMY Yachts</a>&nbsp;come into all of this? Why partner with them?‘When I purchased <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2614" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tail Lights35.46m (116'4&quot;)Azimut Yachts2011">Tail Lights</a>, I had never purchased a vessel of this size. A friend of mine recommended <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2223" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="HMY Yacht Sales (Company)">HMY</a>. I remember standing on the swim platform of my private vessel with this thought to go pursue this business idea. I called <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2223" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="HMY Yacht Sales (Company)">HMY</a> at 07:30 in the morning and this gentleman named Mike Scalisi picked up the phone. He became my broker in the purchase and, since then, we’ve had an incredible relationship, both business and friendly. Mike then introduced me to Susan Harris, who is our charter yacht broker. Since <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2614" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tail Lights35.46m (116'4&quot;)Azimut Yachts2011">Tail Lights</a> was already a part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2223" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="HMY Yacht Sales (Company)">HMY</a> charter fleet, Susan mentioned how she’d love to keep it in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2223" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="HMY Yacht Sales (Company)">HMY</a> family. I explained to Susan how I intend to run this charter yacht as a business, wanting to do 20 to 25 charters a year. Together with Katie and Kimberly from marketing, we sat down for a meeting, and I fell in love: They are incredible and passionate people that were willing to take on the challenge and made it happen.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365517/image/large-0dd58c493415c69a87d14fd7aaae53d8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365517">Looking aheadI’ve considered upgrading and getting a larger vessel, possibly even a second vessel in the fleet. My dream is to have a vessel that literally goes around the globe every year, and guests can fly into different places. We can even work with our repeat clients to say, ‘Hey, do you want to visit Tahiti’, or ‘would you like to go to the Amalfi coast,’ we can figure out ways to fit everyone into that equation in different destinations around the globe.For now, we're thrilled with what we're doing. We're thrilled with the response from the guests, and the experiences that they've had. You know, to me, it's a passion: when I sold my company, it's something I always wanted to do, and now we're doing it successfully and we continue to move onward and upward.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312482/image/large-6f334043a3bc98dc01fcfbb9f82cc070.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312482">This article was first published in the <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/p/from-tech-to-charter-lee-mandel-on-owning-tail-lights" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Yacht Charter Market</a> newsletter. You can read more <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.

From Tech to Charter: Lee Mandel on Owning Tail Lights

From tech to charter: How Lee Mandel turned a motoryacht into a business

From Tech to Charter: Lee Mandel on owning the 35m Tail Lights

How an owner turned a lifelong pursuit of independence into a yacht that embodies mobility, mindfulness, and modern design.While the Alpine mountains are what shaped Hubert’s upbringing, it has been the sea that he has longed for. Symbolising the feeling of freedom, shaped by endless horizons, a life at sea seemed like a faraway dream, until he built <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sitara24.9m (81'8&quot;)VisionF2023">Sitara</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380635/image/large-1ae8e216482167578cd998845390bedb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380635">The value and design of freedom<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sitara24.9m (81'8&quot;)VisionF2023">Sitara</a> is a 82-foot (24.9-metre) motor yacht catamaran with an aluminium hull and superstructure. Designed for circumnavigation without a crew, Hubert and his wife spent most of their year onboard the catamaran.Becoming an entrepreneur at the age of 28, Hubert shares how “freedom has always been my greatest value.” It’s a word, and a feeling, that echoes through the entire yacht. With her broad 9.9-metre beam and sharp, sculptural lines, she appears not so much constructed as carved out of the very water she cruises. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380633/image/large-de8b5bd6db94db1858ca097bb00b837d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380633">Beneath her sleek exterior lies a philosophy of life: to live deliberately, travel far, and design each day as it comes. “Living a free, self-determined life has always been my goal. Added to that is my love for long, distant journeys,” notes Hubert, “Both goals can be achieved onboard a yacht.”With a professional background in architecture, Hubert approached <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sitara24.9m (81'8&quot;)VisionF2023">Sitara</a>’s design with the same sensitivity he would apply to any living space: focusing not just on form, but on feeling. “Design is more than aesthetics,” Hubert shares, “It’s about the energy a space gives you.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380634/image/large-432b430f980389af1ac7a82506e33a4c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380634">Onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sitara24.9m (81'8&quot;)VisionF2023">Sitara</a>, the energy is one of openness and calm. Her interiors, conceived by in collaboration with the owner, are defined by scale and contrast. “Open space,” the owner explains, “is true luxury, whether in a villa or a yacht. Space for big thoughts, big dreams.”Every detail onboard serves that philosophy. Natural textures and clean lines meet in harmony: polished metals reflect soft leather tones, while wood grains ground the modern geometry. “We need contrast in life,” the owner says. “It gives us balance.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380637/image/large-1ce9b5f5227bc011ebed0ef4138398c8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380637">Onboard living The catamaran can accommodate up to six guests and, while it has space for two crew, can also be manned by the owners themselves. “An 82-foot catamaran undoubtedly requires a lot of maintenance and care. The living and deck areas alone are enormous,” Hubert shares, “but <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sitara24.9m (81'8&quot;)VisionF2023">Sitara</a> is our home; we enjoy working, and we love this very private life.”&nbsp;Most people to step onboard Sitara would travel with a crew, which is more than possible. The 82-footer motor yacht is also designed to be sustainable: the yacht houses “a sophisticated, reliable and highly efficient propulsion system powered by conventional diesel engines (VOLVO IPS). At 7 knots we consume only 21 litres of diesel - incredibly low for a yacht of this size!” Hubert says. With a fuel tank capacity of 15,000 litres, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sitara24.9m (81'8&quot;)VisionF2023">Sitara</a> can easily make long voyages. Additionally, she houses 34 solar panels, which power the onboard batteries: “After our first season, the 15 kW generator had only operated for 100 hours. That’s peace of mind.” The hybrid setup not only minimises noise and fuel consumption but also reinforces the yacht’s core ethos: quiet, conscious freedom.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380640/image/large-592cbaeb0d151e6982d27e22f4aac6e2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380640">A Home That AdaptsFor the owner, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sitara24.9m (81'8&quot;)VisionF2023">Sitara</a> was never meant to be static, not in design, purpose, or spirit. “Flexibility was essential,” Hubert notes. “Life changes, and the yacht must change with it.” To that end, the yacht’s layout is remarkably versatile. The office can transform into a guest cabin, utility room, or even crew space. Color schemes and finishing touches can be easily updated; Sitara’s current accents are a vivid orange, but the palette could shift to white, turquoise, or even deep red with minimal effort. “You can change the entire atmosphere without needing to change the architecture.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380638/image/large-bf5f0075b9085f38179373aa7d910797.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380638">This adaptability mirrors the owner’s mindset, which values change over permanence. Even while Hubert and his wife currently live onboard, they know that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sitara24.9m (81'8&quot;)VisionF2023">Sitara</a> may soon find a new owner. The yacht is currently listed for sale with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a> at €5.9 million, though for now, she remains their floating home. “We took delivery in 2024 and spent our first season in the Mediterranean,” Hubert shares. “Now, we’re exploring the Eastern Mediterranean. Part of living freely is deciding where you live, and when.”The reason Hubert’s put his dream yacht up for sale is because “the excitement in my life is new challenges! As an architect, you're used to designing things for people and creating new living spaces. I can't and won't ignore this inner drive.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380636/image/large-d83c63f2e56ac341eee637ad3ecf374c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380636">Looking AheadWhat comes next for someone who has built their dream yacht? The answer, fittingly, is creation. “Building <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sitara24.9m (81'8&quot;)VisionF2023">Sitara</a> reawakened a creative joy; that is something I want to keep developing.”Hubert envisions a future in which he gets to design yachts for others seeking a life of freedom and impermanence; for people who “want to escape the daily grind and live self-determined lives. A yacht isn’t a possession,” Hubert reflects, “It’s a platform for freedom.”Looking towards his own future, which is defined solely by a big question mark, Hubert feels excited. “Where and how we'll live after the sale... isn't yet decided. In any case, we'll be living a ‘free life’." Possibly in the cards is a sailing yacht: “My heart still beats for sailing,” Hubert admits. “But for a couple, handling a sailing yacht over 50 feet can be demanding. A motor yacht offers more safety, less effort.” Ultimately, it’s not the yacht that determines your freedom: it’s your mindset.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380641/image/large-fb4b896142af1c083a5394e34f001a52.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380641">The Spirit of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sitara24.9m (81'8&quot;)VisionF2023">Sitara</a>On the water, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12519" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sitara24.9m (81'8&quot;)VisionF2023">Sitara</a> appears effortless: her twin hulls slicing through glassy blue, her aluminium surfaces catching the sunlight. Yet within her calm precision lies an entire philosophy. She is more than a vessel; she’s a statement about what it means to live without anchors, to chase horizons without losing one’s center.“Freedom reaches its limits sometimes, with authorities, or repairs, or reality itself,” Hubert notes, “But every system has limits. What matters is how you live within them. That’s where life truly begins.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380632/image/large-eda54183c8fb3baf47091b0aef03c19a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380632">

Building Sitara, an 82-foot catamaran: From dream to reality

How an owner turned a lifelong pursuit of independence into a yacht that embodies mobility, mindfulness, and modern design.

It is not every day that one is invited onboard a superyacht with more than a century of history. The 50.29-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> is no ordinary vessel, built in 1906 by the Scottish shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1068" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ramage & Ferguson (Company)">Ramage and Ferguson</a>, she has a storied past, having served with the British Royal Navy in both World Wars.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/373893/image/large-bc3383c62d81626c1b1dc806c5e6069c.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/373893">Over the decades, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> has been owned by a succession of prominent figures, including Richard Burton, who famously gifted her to his wife Elizabeth Taylor, as well as Peter de Savary, Vijay Mallya and, most recently, Shirish Saraf, who acquired her at an auction in 2019.SuperYacht Times Features Writer Enrico Chhibber met Saraf at Monaco Classic Week, following the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/269" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival - 2025">Cannes Yachting Festival</a>, to discuss how he came to acquire the yacht, his preferred cruising destinations, and his perspective on India’s emerging presence in the global yachting sector.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/373921/image/large-b541572dd3028e8d9ad8b2b08ad58193.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/373921">From encounter to ownershipUpon stepping into the main saloon, I was greeted by Saraf and invited on a tour. Being onboard felt like walking through a museum, or being transported back in time. “She carries with her a story,” Saraf said with pride, noting that she had “survived two World Wars,” had welcomed “practically every Hollywood legend” and “all of Bollywood, really,” and that “Prince Philip stayed onboard with the Queen when <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> was the headquarters of the America’s Cup for Peter de Savary.”“I saw her truly as something very special, not just a yacht, but a piece of art. She is art on sea, you know,” said Saraf.Saraf first encountered <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> in 1996, when she was moored in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3474" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dubai Creek Marina (Company)">Dubai Creek</a> under the ownership of Vijay Mallya. “I had just finished a round of golf with her captain during a tournament,” he recalled. “He asked if I wanted to come onboard. I went with my father, but at the time I never imagined I would one day become her owner.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/373924/image/large-8cf25ddbb56bcaae13e9cd5c2cc3779c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/373924">By 2004, Saraf had begun to take a greater interest in boating. He owned a small day boat and began spending more time at sea, often cruising the Mediterranean during the summer.When the opportunity arose in 2019, Saraf acquired <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> at auction in Sri Lanka. What captivated him was not merely her form, but the layered history she embodies. He emphasised “the fact that she is still recognised. I was at the restaurant La Réserve de Beaulieu, and the general manager came out because the bar displayed photos of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> and Elizabeth Taylor arriving for Princess Grace’s 40th birthday in 1969. It is all there, in French, on the walls.”When Saraf took ownership, his priority was to restore <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> to her former glory while preserving her historical character. The first phase of her restoration began in Colombo, followed by a more extensive refit at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6770" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic 42 (Company)">Adriatic 42</a> in Montenegro, where Palazzo Morelli oversaw the interior works. Most recently, she spent the winter in Malta for further refit, managed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1372" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="West Coast Marine (Sea Waif) (Company)">West Coast Marine</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/373894/image/large-c86bbac206a52e1597866767881a0b98.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/373894">Favourite cruising destinations&nbsp;“For me, it’s all about the water quality. I never really like to stay in the marina. Normally I’m anchored in the middle of the sea, somewhere quiet with friends, without too many buildings in sight,” he recounted.Saraf expressed a clear preference for the Mediterranean over the Caribbean, highlighting Corsica, Sicily and the Aeolian Islands, including Panarea and Stromboli, along with Malta, Montenegro and Croatia. “The Turkish coast is my favourite,” he added. “Gocek and all of those areas are really lovely.”Beyond the Mediterranean, Saraf has spent extended periods in Sri Lanka and has cruised the Lakshadweep islands. One destination he still hopes to visit is &nbsp;Raja Ampat in Indonesia.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/373915/image/large-3bd8fddc2e0c0f222003bed879c5e4aa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/373915">India’s potential as a yachting destination and marketThe conversation then turned to India’s potential as both a yachting market and a cruising destination. Saraf offered a measured view of the country’s role in global yachting, distinguishing between its growing base of yacht owners and its limited appeal as a cruising ground. “Over time that will happen,” he said, referring to Indian ownership. “The typical Indian businessman is only now, after twenty years of economic growth, reaching a stage of wealth and maturity where yachting becomes a realistic pursuit. The second generation is beginning to grow up with friends who already have yachts.”Saraf added that “Indians tend to be more cost-conscious than the rest of the world. If you look at it purely from an economic perspective, superyachts shouldn’t be owned.” He went on to explain that ownership, for him, is driven by emotion rather than calculation. “This is something you love,” he reflected. “Why do I own <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> and not charter? Because where do I find the crew? The crew brings the soul to this life, they’re like family. From the moment you step onboard until you leave, it feels like home. Having my own yacht also means I am the master of my fate.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/373917/image/large-fbf40af47a28e0c7504c07a623b3cb54.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/373917">From a cultural perspective, Saraf also noted that many wealthy Indians spend more time in London than at sea. “Indians are not really people of the sea,” he observed. “They haven’t had that exposure. I did, because I grew up in Oman, but in India, apart from Goa or Kerala, where would you go?”On India as a yachting destination, Saraf maintained that the country’s lack of infrastructure and bureaucratic constraints continue to limit its potential. “There is not much water to cruise around there,” he explained. “You can keep your yacht in the Maldives, which is good, but most Indians prefer to stay in a resort rather than cruise.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/373922/image/large-90666725ab450b2de9a5cb7c1ea3b918.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/373922">He went on to describe how limited marina capacity, regulatory hurdles and security restrictions continue to make yacht cruising in India challenging. “There is not even basic infrastructure yet,” he said. “Even Goa does not have proper facilities. Since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, regulations have become stricter. Owners must now notify the Coast Guard weeks in advance, and in places such as Lakshadweep, each island requires a separate visa, and approvals can take months.”Looking ahead When asked whether he planned to acquire another yacht, Saraf replied with characteristic clarity. “No,” he said, later revealing, “I do have plans to put <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a> on the charter market.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/373895/image/large-32b425e760c7fd2ed70a317a359b4fc6.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/373895"> His approach reflects both pragmatism and reverence. As custodian of one of the world’s most storied vessels, Saraf views ownership less as possession and more as preservation, ensuring that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalizma50.29m (164'12&quot;)Ramage & Ferguson1906">Kalizma</a>’s legacy, from her Royal Navy service to her Hollywood chapter, continues to endure. Images of Shirish Saraf provided by Captain Saini Surendra

Shirish Saraf on Kalizma preserving a century of history

Shirish Saraf reveals how he came to own Kalizma, and reflects on India’s potential as a superyacht market and destination.

Inside Shirish Saraf’s journey with Kalizma, the century-old superyacht

It isn’t every day that the superyacht press finds itself on a video call with one of the most influential figures in technology. But when Gabe Newell, co-founder of Valve and now shareholder at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>, appeared on screen for a private roundtable with a select group of journalists during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/271" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2025">Monaco Yacht Show</a>, the atmosphere was one of curiosity and anticipation. For an hour, he spoke candidly about his unlikely journey into yachting, his vision for research-led fleets and why he believes there will always be interesting technologies and opportunities to build more boats.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/372661/image/large-efbaa1c91bfa6988f938d8e2732895dd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/372661">“I wasn’t interested in yachts at all,” he admitted with disarming honesty over the call, explaining how a surprise charter onboard the 77.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vosper Thornycroft (Company)">Vosper Thornycroft</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/301" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M577.6m (254'7&quot;)Vosper Thornycroft2004">M5</a> (ex. Mirabella) for his ex-wife’s 50th birthday turned into the start of a lifelong passion. “I thought I was going to be miserable. Instead, I discovered this incredible way to spend time with friends and family.”That first charter led to many more. Then came ownership. Then, inevitably, came shipbuilding. Today, Newell not only owns a growing fleet, but also lives full-time at sea. “Other than a couple of months in 2021, I’ve been living onboard ever since the pandemic,” he said, leaning back in his chair on screen. His three cats, he joked, are just as bemused as he is when the captain informs them which vessel they’re moving to next.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/319785/image/large-4bb2a8fa9dff74386dd0cf81c8991888.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/319785">The scale and diversity of Newell’s fleet is unusual, even by superyacht standards. He counts the 78.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rocinante78.5m (257'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2008">Rocinante</a> as his first acquisition, the 72.15-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5955" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Game Changer72.15m (236'9&quot;)Damen Yachting2017">Game Changer</a> as a support vessel, and both <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4018" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Draak91.5m (300'2&quot;)Oceanco2014">Draak</a> and the new-build 111-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leviathan111.0m (364'2&quot;)Oceanco2025">Leviathan</a> by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> as those included under his ownership. Beyond the traditional yachts, however, lies an array of research platforms, including the 68.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3754" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tacoma Boat Building Co (Company)">Tacoma Boat Building</a> vessel <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10637" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dagon68.28m (224'0&quot;)Tacoma Boat Building Co1985">Dagon</a> which operates as a full-ocean-depth surface platform and the 55.75-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1643" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Auroux (Company)">Auroux</a> vessel <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydra55.75m (182'11&quot;)Auroux1974">Hydra</a> which is designed for coastal studies.&nbsp;He also has a 35-metre sportfisher in development at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/474" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachting Developments (Company)">Yachting Developments</a>, that will travel with the main boat and the support boat, and has signed an agreement with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4590" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vard Group AS (Company)">Vard</a> for the 100-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/15856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RV6000100.0m (328'1&quot;)Vard Group AS2028">RV6000</a>, which will carry a 6,000-metre-capable remotely operated vehicle for submarine rescue and ocean science, and the research vessel <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/17142" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RV11000162.0m (531'6&quot;)Vard Group AS2030">RV11000</a>, which is still in development.&nbsp;While the fleet is diverse, the vision is consistent that yachts are not just used as platforms for leisure, but as tools for exploration and science. Through Inkfish, his marine research organisation, Newell supports scientists with access to deep-sea technology, from advanced ROVs to mapping equipment. “Our focus is to be a service organisation to the scientific community,” he explained. “We ask scientists directly, what’s helpful? Sometimes that means getting them to critical parts of the ocean. Sometimes it means grants to process the data we collect. The point is to be led by science, not by ego.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367974/image/large-ea8d38f7ced1d8b2d5c392d963d93997.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367974">At one point during the call, he described how high-school students had boarded his research vessels, watching specimens being prepared, and later wrote to ask when the boats would return. He smiled as he recounted their excitement: “That’s the impact I want to see. When the community says, ‘You’re coming back? Hooray!’ then we know we’re doing it right.”If his research ambitions are ambitious, his philosophy as a yacht owner is just as striking. Newell has imported the mindset of a software engineer into yacht design, thinking in terms of productivity and user experience.On <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leviathan111.0m (364'2&quot;)Oceanco2025">Leviathan</a>, for instance, the deck is not teak but <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7672" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bolidt (Company)">Bolidt</a>. “I’d rather the crew spend less time polishing decks and more time interacting with guests,” he said. “It’s about maximising the valuable experiences onboard. Do you want your crew polishing chrome, or taking your child out on a Jet Ski? To me, it’s obvious.”That approach extends deeper, with crew actively designing tenders, galleys and operational spaces. “We started by asking our dive team to design their own tender. The results were so good that we realised, the more you involve the crew in design, the better the outcomes.” On screen, he gave a small shrug as if to say the idea was obvious, though it represents a radical departure from how most yachts are conceived.Few yacht owners speak as comfortably about CNC machining, AI models or pressure vessels as they do about cruising grounds. For Newell, technology is not an accessory to his yachting, but the foundation of it. A self-taught machinist who once kept a five-axis CNC mill in his living room, he now funds advanced material research. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367451/image/large-26f50ff0e23faff563f5ba25af0026b5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367451">One project in partnership explores aluminium oxynitride, a transparent ceramic stronger than titanium. “It’s so strong that titanium becomes the gasket material,” he said, eyes lighting up through the video link. The aim, to build a fully transparent, full-ocean-depth submersible hull.Newell was also an early funder of OpenAI, and speaks enthusiastically about applying machine learning to shipbuilding. “Putting stress and strain gauges everywhere, collecting time-series data and comparing it to model predictions, that’s where AI can validate and improve design. It’s about putting shipbuilding in front of the wave of technological advancement.”Examples already in place include pathogen-detection systems onboard to identify influenza or RSV, and discussions around bridge systems that use augmented reality to detect submerged objects at night. “Machine vision is already better than humans in many cases,” he said. “It’s just about integrating it in a way that enhances safety.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/372683/image/large-fde494e79d89a678a296d7074c300d04.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/372683">Gabe Newell acquired <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> in August 2025, stating he intends to support and reinforce its existing culture, which he views as effective, principled and forward-looking. The investment in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> itself stemmed not from a cold business calculation, but from a sense of belonging. Building <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leviathan111.0m (364'2&quot;)Oceanco2025">Leviathan</a> with the yard’s CEO Marcel Onkenhout and his team created a natural partnership for Newell.“It didn’t feel adversarial. It felt like collaboration,” Newell explained. “I was fanboying all over Marcel and his team. The quality made me root for them. Eventually it was like, how can I be part of this team too?” The result was a formal stake in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>, but with a philosophy that profit alone is not the driver. “The goal is to create happy customers. Profit is just the signal that you’re doing better than others. My focus is on how to make already brilliant yachts even more valuable to owners.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365665/image/large-908318675f42f6a91544e68f54985a77.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365665">For Newell, the process of designing and building yachts has become as much a joy as the finished vessels themselves. “I’ll actually be sad when <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leviathan111.0m (364'2&quot;)Oceanco2025">Leviathan</a> is delivered, because I’ve loved working with the team,” he admitted via the video link. Asked whether he will always be building yachts, he admitted that it's an ongoing conversation and that there will always be interesting opportunities to move technology forward in the industry, in ways that might be too risky to ask another owner to take on. “In those cases, we could look at a speculative project or something I’d build myself, which gives the yard more design freedom. But it depends on what the team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> wants to try.”It is a revealing answer. For an industry often shrouded in secrecy, Newell brings not only capital and innovation, but a refreshing openness. He jokes about his cats, shares anecdotes of his children, and speaks earnestly about wanting yachts to be seen as good actors in the communities they visit.Marcel, speaking towards the end of the call, agreed wholeheartedly. “What has always bothered me most in 30 years is the secrecy and gossip,” he reflected. “In the years ahead, we want to lead by example, and transparency will be part of that.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367971/image/large-02a0541df7b4d8e25e92bf73af030e34.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367971">Gabe also noted that many of his peers in the American tech world “aren’t nearly as aware of yachts and yachting as a lot of people in Europe,” and that simply getting them onboard could be transformative. “It’s a little like shooting fish in a barrel,” he said with a grin. “There are so many people who would never think about yachts, but once they experience it, they’ll realise it has an important role to play in their lives.” For Newell, the challenge lies in making the sales process experiential, because simply getting potential owners onboard, he argued, is often enough to change perceptions entirely.As the call drew to a close, he turned the tables on the assembled journalists: “What do you want <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> to do?” It was a fitting end from a man whose career has been built on questioning assumptions, listening closely and then reimagining what is possible.

Gabe Newell: Life at sea and building the future with Oceanco

Gabe Newell speaks about his fleet, Oceanco investment and vision for yachting innovation.

From gaming to yachting: Gabe Newell on life at sea and building the future with Oceanco

“If you want to be able to get into all your favourite spots quickly and get closer, she is the ideal yacht and exactly why we went for her,” says the owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royale X49.9m (163'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2012">Royale X</a>, a 49.9-metre Mangusta yacht that has redefined how his family experiences the Mediterranean. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367574/image/large-946d4c233c9ecedda022b0dc7bc580df.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367574">Launched in 2012, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royale X49.9m (163'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2012">Royale X</a> is part of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Overmarine Group SPA (Company)">Overmarine</a>’s Mangusta 165 series, a platform renowned for its speed, low profile and distinctive Italian styling. Now offered to the charter market for the first time, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royale X49.9m (163'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2012">Royale X</a> is more than a high-speed cruiser. With an ambitious cruising track record and a layout refined through experience, she reflects the priorities of a hands-on owner: comfort, flexibility and, above all, the freedom to move. We spoke with her owner to find out how he fit an expansive Mediterranean tour into only a month and to understand why he thinks that sets the yacht apart. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271359/image/large-5d40be1faa32636734c08bad1fcdb44a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271359">A four-week grand tourIn just four weeks, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royale X49.9m (163'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2012">Royale X</a> completed an ambitious Mediterranean itinerary that would have been logistically unfeasible for most displacement yachts. Embarking in Monaco, the crew collected the owner in Portofino before cruising south via Elba, Corsica and Sardinia. An extended stay beneath Capri’s dramatic limestone cliffs was followed by a passage past Stromboli to Taormina in Sicily, and onwards to the Ionian Islands in Greece, with pauses at Zakynthos, Ithaka and Anti Paxos, before turning north to Montenegro and Croatia, where the voyage concluded in Dubrovnik.“It was probably the best of Italy, the best of the Ionian and the Croatian coast – all in one cruise,” the owner reflects. “We covered a huge amount of ground, but it never felt rushed. That’s what this boat makes possible.” Cruising comfortably at 25–30 knots, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royale X49.9m (163'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2012">Royale X</a> can achieve in hours what other yachts require a full day to cover. The 100-nautical-mile passage from Monaco to Portofino, for instance, took just four hours – a journey that would take double that for most vessels.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/368442/image/large-419c5a1f868642b4c3fe67a399d82bbb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/368442">Flexibility was key. The ability to adapt to weather or shift plans spontaneously made the experience all the more enjoyable. “We tend to plan as we go. If the weather’s not great where we are anchored, we have the flexibility to move elsewhere quickly. If something looks promising on the chart, we make a detour. You’re not locked into a rigid itinerary.”This responsiveness, paired with a shallow draft and high cruising speed, allowed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royale X49.9m (163'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2012">Royale X</a> to access small harbours and anchorages that many tri-deck yachts simply cannot reach. “We’ve taken her into places like Bonifacio, Portoferraio, Hvar – even backed her into Portofino. That’s a real experience, arriving at those spots by sea in a yacht of this size.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367659/image/large-8932eb38eb98815ce07278dc03827d06.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367659">Capable of speeds over 30 knots, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royale X49.9m (163'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2012">Royale X</a> has been designed to make the most of every moment aboard. “We’re often travelling with limited time, just a few weeks, sometimes days. Being able to move quickly between locations changes the whole dynamic. From Monaco, you can be in Saint-Tropez in just over an hour, or dash across to Portofino for lunch. That opens up destinations most people would rule out for a short trip.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367664/image/large-73c5e0e34d6a141c5f019e8986ce01bd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367664">While her performance is impressive, comfort has not been sacrificed. The yacht features four guest staterooms, including a full-beam master suite, as well as a fifth convertible cabin that doubles as a cinema lounge. Recently updated, this space now features a full bed and privacy curtain, ideal for families travelling with children or extra guests. Importantly, this adjustment was made without removing the onboard gym, maintaining wellness facilities that are often the first to go on similar refits.“She’s not configured for large parties, we cruise as a family, usually just the five of us. But the layout works brilliantly. The cinema can be set up for guests, and we still have a proper gym. It’s balanced.”Noise and vibration levels are also notably low, even at speed, particularly with the new set of gyroscopic stabilisers. “We’ll often watch movies in the master at night while underway. You don’t notice the motion, it’s very smooth.”What the owner values most, however, is the sense of proximity to the water. “I’ve been on a lot of yachts where you feel quite detached – you’re up high, behind glass, away from the sea. This is different. You really feel like you’re part of the journey.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367571/image/large-9ffd197f2db7188bdc9a807b27196bd1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367571">That connection is especially apparent on the sun deck and the forward lounging area, where new awnings now allow for shaded relaxation just metres from the sea. “That front area’s become a favourite of ours. You’re right there at the bow, low to the water, watching the coastline slip by.”The aft deck, too, offers wide views and clean sightlines, especially when manoeuvring in or out of port. “It’s a practical deck, but it’s also emotional – you feel the movement of the boat, the close link with the sea. That’s hard to find on larger yachts.”Though discreet by nature, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royale X49.9m (163'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2012">Royale X</a> has earned quiet recognition among those who understand performance. She shares her model line with another Mangusta favoured by a well-known Formula One team principal – a detail not lost on her owner.“It’s not something we shout about, but it says a lot. Someone who leads a high-performance racing team chose the same model, clearly, they saw the same potential in the platform.”That connection reinforces what the owner has come to appreciate first-hand: the Mangusta 165 is a yacht built for action, not just appearance.“It’s not about being seen,” he says. “It’s about being able to see. To experience more. To go further and faster without being weighed down by a slow, heavy platform. That’s why we chose her and why we’re excited for others to do the same.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271376/image/large-fd1f4873c11279a94d8a50010db5e831.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271376">For those seeking a charter experience shaped by real ownership insight, where performance, comfort and freedom intersect, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royale X49.9m (163'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2012">Royale X</a> offers a rare opportunity. She is a yacht for guests who value movement, intimacy and access. Whether it's a high-season sprint along the Riviera or a month-long exploration from Monaco to Montenegro, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royale X49.9m (163'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2012">Royale X</a> delivers on her promise: to open up more of the Mediterranean, more quickly and with style.

Royale X high-speed Mangusta 165

We take a look at Royale X and her Mediterranean capabilities for charter.

Ownership insight: Exploring the Med at speed aboard 50m Royale X

Launched in 2011 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2343" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Phithak Shipyard and Services (Company)">Phithak Shipyard</a>, the 31.6-metre sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a> is a striking aluminium sloop designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sparkman & Stephens, Inc. (Company)">Sparkman &amp; Stephens</a>. Since 2018, she has been the pride and joy of her current owner, who acquired her with a long-term vision to combine exploration with environmental stewardship. In this interview, her owner Philip Hermans shares the story of his time onboard – from scientific ambitions to family adventures – and reflects on the yacht's enduring qualities.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361817/image/large-e03a26e2adfc6f68ceb344cccc48ec48.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361817">What inspired you to purchase <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a>? Was it love at first sight, or did you have a specific vision in mind when searching for a yacht?From an early age, I was drawn to the sea. I started sailing dinghies and small yachts before life and work took precedence. While based in Singapore with my family, we enjoyed unforgettable sailing holidays across the Pacific – from Tahiti to Tonga, and throughout Southeast Asia.In that period, I pursued competitive sailing with an X99, leading a crew to victory in the International Straits Regatta Cup. But my ultimate dream was to own a large yacht for retirement – one that would allow me to explore remote waters and combine cruising with scientific research.My vision included using the yacht for a programme focused on sustainability and marine science, particularly phytoplankton and microplastics. I maintained ties with my alma mater, the Free University of Brussels, which recognised my efforts in bridging academia and industry.The yacht also had to be safe and comfortable enough for my wife, Kristin, who was initially hesitant about life at sea. We began searching in late 2017 and soon discovered <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a> in Phuket. Her robust build, elegant design, and proven charter record immediately captivated us. It truly was love at first sight. Though I hadn’t yet retired, we chose to acquire her, retain the crew and charter operation, and begin preparations for our long-term project, Pacific Passion. Our adventure officially began in January 2018.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361818/image/large-8a0f5c00293d8350728d850c0ad81fb7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361818">What were the key features that initially drew you to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a>? How does her design enhance comfort, performance, or style?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a>’s pedigree was instantly apparent. Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sparkman & Stephens, Inc. (Company)">Sparkman &amp; Stephens</a> and built to American Bureau of Shipping standards, she boasts an aluminium hull and topsides, a Maxspar carbon mast and boom, and top-tier sailing systems by Harken, all hydraulically powered.The technical specifications were impressive, including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> propulsion, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raymarine UK Ltd (Company)">Raymarine</a> electronics, and a 16-foot Castoldi (now Williams) diesel-jet tender. But what truly stood out were the lifestyle features: a well-appointed galley, hotel-quality mattresses, an entertainment system, and a suite of water toys from paddleboards to scuba equipment.The yacht’s beam and freeboard create a sense of spaciousness, enhanced by the two-deck interior layout with high-quality finishes. Crew quarters and a large lazarette with platform access were practical additions, while the full-sized engine room was a rare asset for a vessel of this length.Safety was another strength, with bulkhead doors ensuring watertight compartments and a robust firefighting system. The total package made <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a> an ideal platform for both exploration and refined living.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361813/image/large-2bb5cab537f2fedcb6ab0a93b79015a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361813">Did you make any modifications or upgrades to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a>? How did these changes improve your experience on board?Since her acquisition, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a> has undergone extensive upgrades – both technical and cosmetic – to support the Pacific Passion project. These enhancements significantly improved safety, performance, and liveability.We installed the latest Raymarine Axiom navigation systems, upgraded communications for global operation (A1 through A4 areas), and fitted a high-capacity internet system with dual Starlink terminals for redundancy. Her sailing rig was completely overhauled under the guidance of Maxspar’s owner, improving efficiency and reliability.Sustainability was a major focus. We added custom solar panels generating 4 kWp, upgraded the battery system to 21 MG LiFePO4 units, and ensured full AC and DC coverage across the vessel. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engine and gensets were overhauled to zero engine hours.Further improvements included a full Sonos audio system, upgraded TVs and server-based entertainment, and new galley appliances. We also invested in a comprehensive MCA1905 Cat A 10 medical chest, covering all foreseeable first-aid scenarios. Altogether, these upgrades exceeded €1 million, positioning <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a> as a highly capable and self-sufficient yacht ready for extended cruising.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361815/image/large-a520dbec73646b9493ff87a9c6e1d25b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361815">Where have you sailed with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a>? Any favourite destinations or hidden gems?Pre-retirement, our cruising time was limited to a few weeks annually. During that period, we explored Southeast Asia – from Indonesia’s Anambas Islands to the Philippines’ Palawan region and the waters around Phuket.Retirement allowed us to expand our horizons. We cruised across Indonesia to Bali, Lombok, Komodo, and Flores, and ventured as far as West Papua. Each leg revealed new highlights, from pristine coral reefs to quiet anchorages untouched by tourism. The diversity and beauty of the region were astounding.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361816/image/large-249cc8eec9c56ef9c11ca5c1a3d30858.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361816">Do you have a standout memory that captures the essence of life aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a>?Life on board has been defined by quiet rituals and awe-inspiring moments. One of my favourites is waking just before dawn to watch the world awaken from the deck – a peaceful, energising way to start the day.Evenings were similarly treasured, with a sundowner in hand an hour before sunset, reflecting on the day’s adventures. Perhaps the most unforgettable chapter was our time in Raja Ampat, Indonesia. The biodiversity, warm waters, and dramatic landscapes created a sense of wonder I’ve rarely experienced elsewhere. We stayed for two months and plan to return for another three to explore Misool and the remote Forgotten Islands.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361814/image/large-a1c2a34d43e4cbe2b5fc1417d3a5c766.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361814">How does <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a> perform under sail and power? Any notable experiences in different sea conditions?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a> performs admirably under both sail and engine. We typically switched to motor power if the speed dropped below five knots in under 12 knots of wind. In favourable conditions, she reached speeds of up to 11.5 knots under sail – impressive without a spinnaker or gennaker.Under power, the optimal cruising RPM is 1250, consuming 20 to 22 litres per hour for a consistent seven-knot pace. This proved ideal for passage planning. Her high freeboard and displacement contribute to a smooth ride even in challenging sea states. She has comfortably handled wave heights up to four metres, and our seasoned captain – who also sailed with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a>'s first owner – has reported no concerns, even during squalls typical of the region.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361809/image/large-ee450b94b2af8f30788a76045d91c4ea.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361809">What’s motivating the sale of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a>, and what kind of owner do you believe would be her perfect match?The sale follows a fulfilling execution of the Pacific Passion project. Initially planned as a four-year circumnavigation including Alaska, Antarctica, and the Americas, the programme was revised due to Kristin’s discomfort with harsh conditions in higher latitudes.We opted instead to focus on tropical cruising between 15° North and 10° South – a region with warm, safe waters and rich cruising grounds. This revision brought the end date forward to December 2025.To date, we’ve sailed over 16,500 nautical miles. As our family shifts priorities – including time with grandchildren – it feels like the right moment to pass the torch. The ideal next owner will be someone who values craftsmanship, engineering excellence, and the joy of discovery. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a> offers a turnkey solution for those seeking adventure without compromise.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361811/image/large-9e18768a0353c7fdc1bda3033273ea9c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361811">If you could summarise your ownership experience in one sentence, what would it be? And what advice would you give the next owner?Owning <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a> has been a deeply enriching experience – a chance to explore the world slowly, thoughtfully, and comfortably, all while reconnecting with nature and the people I hold dear.To her next custodian: cherish the moments, respect the sea, and embrace the freedom she offers. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a> is more than a yacht – she’s a vessel for transformation, reflection, and unforgettable memories.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/361808/image/large-b72ee5227309dd33e521aceb8da5fa52.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/361808"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silverlining31.6m (103'8&quot;)Phithak Shipyard and Services2011">Silverlining</a> represents far more than her specifications or pedigree. She is a proven platform for exploration, a home at sea, and a testament to the thoughtful stewardship of her current owner. Now offered for sale with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser Yachts</a>, she is ready to inspire her next chapter – and her next owner – with the same grace, performance, and purpose that have defined her journey so far.

Silverlining yacht owner interview

Philip Hermans shares the story of his time onboard from scientific ambitions to family adventures and reflects on the yacht's enduring qualities.

“Discovering the world, one sunrise at a time”: Life aboard the 32m yacht Silverlining

The 33.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> – Greek for “swordfish” – was originally built in 1974 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/548" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Chantier de L'Estérel (Company)">Chantier de l’Estérel</a>. Her naval architecture was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/549" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="André Mauric (Company)">André Mauric</a>, while her exterior and interior design took shape on the drawing boards of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/17" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bannenberg & Rowell Design (Company)">Jon Bannenberg</a>, lending her a timeless charm.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/344728/image/large-87def9ff9f1cde07fec070a7ee8c81c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/344728">In the early 2000s, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a>, the only <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/548" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Chantier de L'Estérel (Company)">Esterel</a> 105 model in existence, underwent several refits. Her most recent transformation however, began in 2022, upon her acquisition by new owners, Mr and Mrs Kourtesis. Under the guidance of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/300" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apostolos Molindris & Associates (Company)">Apostolos Molindris</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> was gutted and rebuilt with completely new interiors, while her original engines were refurbished.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/348777/image/large-1fbf35146c392175691975a57de64d86.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/348777">In April 2024, her most recent and significant refit was completed in Perama, Greece. With a new lease of life, the yacht has now also been made available for charter through <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>. In this interview, Mr Kourtesis shares his family’s experience of owning and refitting this classic motor yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/348772/image/large-cb9b179967a1d49c0364ab7dafb58a4c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/348772">How did you get into yachting, and what inspired you to purchase Xiphias?My life and career have always revolved around the sea. As a sea captain in the merchant marine fleet, coming from Andros Island – a place with a deep maritime tradition – I grew up with great respect for the art of shipbuilding and the sea in general. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> represents a perfect harmony between my work and personal passion – a vessel with a rich history and cultural significance that demanded our care.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/234703/image/large-3e78ee54c3f786e9e7f4713f6844333f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/234703" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Our family’s decision to own a superyacht had to do specifically with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system" target="_blank">Xiphias</a>, not just any yacht. She is a piece of history, representing timeless craftsmanship. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/17" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system" target="_blank">Jon Bannenberg</a>’s design speaks for itself. It embodies a refined elegance that few can replicate. She stood out not only for her undeniable beauty but also for the legacy she carries, which resonates with our family’s roots and values.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/344738/image/large-951bbc2327f5da620be21abe0a2e3e5d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/344738" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Her connection to Andros and her former owners’ made her acquisition even more meaningful to our family. Growing up, we admired <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> as she graced the waters during her time with her original owners. The sight of her approaching the port of Andros Chora would spark a wave of excitement across the island—especially among the children. For us, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> is more than a yacht; she is a cherished symbol of our childhood and a deep connection to our roots. This was more than a purchase; it was a commitment to preserving something extraordinary.What guided your decision to refit Xiphias, and what was the scope of the work done?We felt the responsibility to restore <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> to her former glory while equipping her to meet the demands of modern yachting. It was about respecting her heritage, honouring her design, and ensuring she remained a safe, comfortable, and exceptional vessel for years to come. This was not a project of convenience but one of passion and respect, driven by the belief that a yacht like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> deserves nothing less than excellence.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/344814/image/large-19e0c66afb15588965506f83d80ffd32.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/344814">The refit was extensive, addressing both structural and aesthetic elements. We reinforced the aft deck with a steel structure, replaced all teak decks, added a new exterior staircase, modernised the bridge with state-of-the-art systems, and installed zero-speed stabilisers to enhance comfort at anchor.Internally, the interiors were redesigned to reflect a modern yet understated luxury, staying true to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/17" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bannenberg & Rowell Design (Company)">Bannenberg</a>’s original vision. Every decision was influenced by a commitment to balance tradition with innovation, ensuring <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> retained her authenticity.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/344795/image/large-0117d88cf354f1823f549dc9cf6bd47a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/344795" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">What collaborators did you work with during this process, and what was your experience like?We had the privilege of working with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/300" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apostolos Molindris & Associates (Company)">Apostolos Molindris</a>, the man behind the refit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christina O99.15m (325'4&quot;)Canadian Vickers1943">Christina O</a>, another iconic yacht with a similar heritage. He was responsible for the interior design, and a skilled team of shipyard professionals worked on the technical and structural aspects.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/344788/image/large-fe2a18ccd9acb8566345d46f049dde77.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/344788">Among them was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5524" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mistral Composites SA (Company)">Mistral Limited</a> and their project-in-charge, Pepe, whose dedication and craftsmanship ensured that every detail was executed to the highest standard. Their expertise and shared respect for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a>’ heritage made them invaluable partners. The process was demanding, but the outcome exceeded our expectations and made us proud.What was the most surprising challenge you encountered during the refit, and how was it overcome?Balancing the yacht’s historical integrity with modern updates was the most significant challenge. Preserving her unique design required a meticulous approach, particularly when integrating new technologies and amenities. Through careful planning and close communication with the team, we ensured that every decision respected the yacht’s legacy. The result is a seamless blend of heritage and modernity that we are proud to share with the world.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/344806/image/large-6697e887e8b1125e514337ba22c4e2a6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/344806" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">How has the refit enhanced your experience onboard?The refit has elevated <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> to an entirely new level. The technical upgrades, such as the zero-speed stabilisers and a fully electronic bridge, along with state-of-the-art smart suite integration by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3897" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Crestron (Company)">Crestron</a>, have improved performance and safety. Meanwhile, the redesigned interiors and expanded deck spaces provide an atmosphere of comfort and elegance. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/348779/image/large-e7e14a346c7707354d8be3a44e77256b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/348779"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/348775/image/large-70f235d6b7204f11160f4268b136b532.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/348775" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Sailing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> now is a unique experience that combines the charm of a classic yacht with the sophistication of contemporary yachting. Spending time in Andros in particular feels like a homecoming, uniting the yacht’s story with the island’s rich maritime tradition.&nbsp;Beyond Andros, as a family, we enjoy venturing to quieter parts of the Aegean, where the natural beauty and tranquillity of the sea remind me why I have dedicated my life to it. Every journey aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> is an opportunity to reconnect with the essence of yachting and the timeless allure of the sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/344754/image/large-b4d3e0ff013e47921cdaf07a5d754bda.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/344754">What impact has the refit had on the popularity of charters onboard Xiphias?Since the refit, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> has gained significant recognition as a charter yacht. Her compact size and remarkable fuel efficiency make her ideal for charter, enabling smooth navigation through shallow waters and granting access to secluded bays often unreachable by larger yachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/344775/image/large-225e15cac356006397dc78e20f74f255.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/344775" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Despite her size, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Xiphias33.2m (108'11&quot;)Chantier de L'Estérel1974">Xiphias</a> boasts an impressive interior volume of 147 GT, offering guests the comfort of expansive living spaces, complemented by generously proportioned decks perfect for relaxation or socialising.Her classic aesthetic, combined with her enhanced amenities and the crew’s exemplary hospitality, makes her a sought-after option for discerning clients. She offers a rare combination of historical significance, modern luxury, and the ability to explore the unique beauty of the sea, which has undoubtedly contributed to her growing popularity.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/344781/image/large-fc226af22168729cf552d0d7ba0476ba.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/344781">Do you have any advice for first-time yacht owners, especially those considering a refit?My advice is to approach yacht ownership and refitting with patience and respect for the vessel’s character. A yacht is not merely a possession; it is a legacy. Surround yourself with experts who share your vision and understand the balance between preserving history and embracing modernity. Success lies in meticulous planning, clear communication, and a commitment to maintaining the vessel’s unique identity.This article was first published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-52" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issue 52 of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, available for download at this website.</a>

Owner Insight: Mr Makis Kourtesis on restoring 33.2m Xiphias

Owner Mr Makis Kourtesis on the joys and challenges of refitting the 33.2-metre Xiphias.

Restoring a legacy: Mr Kourtesis on his 33m yacht Xiphias

The 76.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7044" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simek AS (Company)">Simek AS</a> support vessel <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-8176.6m (251'4&quot;)Simek AS2014">U-81</a> (ex-FS Cygnus) has been spotted in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, following an extensive conversion at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5453" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zwijnenburg Shipyard (Company)">Zwijnenburg Shipyard</a> in Krimpen aan den Ijssel. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396515/image/large-da084f97851c09220f0042934a65c899.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396515">The support yacht, converted from an offshore support vessel for the oil and gas industries, is now displaying the name <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-8176.6m (251'4&quot;)Simek AS2014">U-81</a> on her stern and side profile. This suggests she is related to the previous 80.1-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6617" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Shipyards (Company)">Damen Shipyards</a> support yacht U-81, which has since been sold and renamed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11888" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wingman80.1m (262'10&quot;)Damen Shipyards2022">Wingman</a>. The previous U-81 also spent considerable time in the care of Zwijnenburg Shipyard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396508/image/large-3ccc75bc4a4dd9f3638766f01df949a3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396508"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-8176.6m (251'4&quot;)Simek AS2014">U-81</a> arrived in the Netherlands in April 2026 and spent 11 weeks at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5453" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zwijnenburg Shipyard (Company)">Zwijnenburg Shipyard</a>. Originally launched in 2014, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-8176.6m (251'4&quot;)Simek AS2014">U-81</a> featured exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4539" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ulstein Verft AS (Company)">Ulstein Verft AS</a>. The re-design of the vessel was done <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio ZEA (Company)">Studio ZEA</a>, which is the new design firm by founded by renowned yacht designer Zlatko Imamovic, with <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> acting as the owners representative<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396507/image/large-1b0612ad97ae9c22a02e570688fb80eb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396507"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-8176.6m (251'4&quot;)Simek AS2014">U-81</a> previously operated as an offshore vessel, displaying a red hull and a continuous working deck aft. Details surrounding the full extent of her rebuild have not yet been disclosed, but the first images show a white hull and superstructure, a more pronounced bulbous bow and an additional deck extending her aft profile.&nbsp;Her elevated deck provides a sheltered space beneath, as well as giving her a more traditional yacht-like appearance. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-8176.6m (251'4&quot;)Simek AS2014">U-81</a> now also displays a helideck and hangar, expanding her capabilities as a yacht support vessel.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389111/image/large-0de1e59efd5df286448fcc404464721f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389111">SuperYacht Times has reached out to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5453" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zwijnenburg Shipyard (Company)">Zwijnenburg Shipyard</a> for more information on the rebuild of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-8176.6m (251'4&quot;)Simek AS2014">U-81</a>, but they were unavailable for comment.

U81: 77m support vessel rebuild in Rotterdam

The 76m Simek AS support vessel FS Cygnus has emerged from the Zwijnenburg Shipyard as U-81, following an extensive rebuild.

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Newly converted yacht support vessel U-81 emerges from major rebuild

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1556" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SES Yachts (Company)">SES Yachts</a> has unveiled Project Freedom, a 44-metre explorer motor yacht currently under development at the Turkish shipyard's facilities in Istanbul. Currently for sale with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a>, the semi-custom sportfisher yacht is also capable of long-range cruising and she remains available for owner customisation prior to the start of construction.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396480/image/large-500170a86eeb976fa74c7ab08e82ac6a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396480">Developed with naval architecture and engineering by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2051" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="NAMES by Francesco Rogantin (Company)">NAMES</a> under the direction of Francesco Rogantin, Project Freedom features both interior and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marco Casali Too Design (Company)">Marco Casali's Too Design</a> studio. Built entirely in aluminium and classed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1457" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RINA (Company)">RINA</a> C + Hull Mach Y, the concept blends elements of traditional explorer yachts with large sportfishing vessels.The yacht’s profile characterised by a layered superstructure, with expansive aft deck spaces and a high bow designed for offshore cruising. According to the designers, the concept was conceived as a purpose-built world cruise cruiser capable of supporting extended voyages while accommodating a range of owner lifestyles.A key feature of the project is the availability of three distinct configurations built on a common platform.The Fisherman version is focused on a generous open aft deck designed to accommodate a substantial tender and a selection of water toys, without needing a dedicated chase boat. Beneath, a fully customisable beach club can be configured to be equipped with dive storage, fishing facilities, a gym, bar or additional leisure spaces.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396477/image/large-3cd87e33c079d0e8ac57d0f0e4b65130.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396477">For owners interested in offshore sportfishing, the Fisherman Enclosed version features a fully enclosed upper-deck lounge complete with a day head and direct access to a crow's nest, the yacht’s lookout point. This arrangement draws inspiration from large enclosed sportfisher yachts, and provides improved protection from the weather and visibility on long journeys.The Leisure version features a more classic superyacht style, replacing the open aft deck with a central swimming pool and side-entry tender garage for smaller boats. The beach club is divided into dedicated wellness and watersports activities, while the sundeck offers additional space for lounging, dining and entertainment spaces.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396486/image/large-61c1dd74f65bef71a30e9154778b58cd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396486">With an interior volume of 399 GT, Project Freedom offers generous space for a yacht of her size. Accommodation onboard is arranged for up to 10 guests across five staterooms, including an owner's suite, two VIP staterooms and two guest staterooms. A six-stateroom configuration is also available. Dedicated quarters house up to three crew members, including her captain.Her main saloon, which is seamlessly connected to her commercial-grade galley, while the upper-deck skylounge features a bar, pantry and additional social spaces.In terms of performance, the explorer yacht will be 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 delivering a projected top speed of 22 knots and a cruising speed of 20 knots. At economical speeds, the yacht is expected to achieve a range exceeding 4,000 nautical miles.Project Freedom is currently available at the semi-custom stage, allowing prospective owners to customise interior finishes, accommodation arrangements and deck layouts ahead of construction. All images provided courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a>.

SES Yachts unveils 44m explorer yacht Project Freedom

SES Yachts has unveiled the 44-metre explorer sportfish Project Freedom, comes in  three distinct configuration options.


The 29.41-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1184" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hargrave Custom Yachts (Company)">Hargrave</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4265" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ossum Dream29.41m (96'6&quot;)Hargrave Custom Yachts2005">Ossum Dream</a> sold in a deal with Arthur Brooks of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8248" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Art Brooks Sea Company (Company)">Art Brooks Sea Company</a> introducing the buyer and Jeff Stanley of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2933" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gilman Yachts (Company)">Gilman Yachts</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/362409/image/large-37906de3b2277cc194329fbbcd591639.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/362409">Delivered in 2005, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4265" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ossum Dream29.41m (96'6&quot;)Hargrave Custom Yachts2005">Ossum Dream</a> was designed in-full by her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1184" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hargrave Custom Yachts (Company)">Hargrave Custom Yachts</a>, which were responsible for her interior and exterior design, as well as her naval architecture.&nbsp;Spanning 105 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4265" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ossum Dream29.41m (96'6&quot;)Hargrave Custom Yachts2005">Ossum Dream</a> can comfortably accommodate up to eight guests across a four stateroom configuration, consisting of a full-beam master suite, a VIP suite, a double and a twin stateroom.&nbsp;In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4265" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ossum Dream29.41m (96'6&quot;)Hargrave Custom Yachts2005">Ossum Dream</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, providing her with a top speed of 22 knots and a cruising speed of 19 knots. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4265" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ossum Dream29.41m (96'6&quot;)Hargrave Custom Yachts2005">Ossum Dream</a> had a last known asking price of $1,795,000.&nbsp;(Image courtesy of Gilman Yachts.)

Ossum Dream: 29m Hargrave yacht sold

The 29.41-metre Hargrave motor yacht Ossum Dream sold with a last known asking price of $1,795,000.

29m Hargrave motor yacht Ossum Dream sold

Situated on Spain's northeastern Mediterranean coast in the city of Tarragona, is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a>, which has established itself as one of the superyacht industry's leading technical marinas. Managed since 2020 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6623" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocibar (Company)">Group Ocibar</a>, a specialist marina operator with a portfolio that includes <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1563" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Adriano (Company)">Port Adriano</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6623" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocibar (Company)">Marina Botafoc</a> and other facilities in the Western Mediterranean, the Tarragona-based marina offers 32 deep-water berths accommodating yachts from 45 to 160 metres.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396342/image/large-b21010aff93c960f7f8458944c689f88.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396342">Known throughout the industry as the "Home of Giants", <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> has become a preferred destination for some of the world's largest superyachts. Yet according to Maite Murillo Galimany, Commercial Executive at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a>, the nickname extends far beyond the vessels themselves. "We call <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> ‘Home of Giants’ due to the big size of the superyachts we host in Tarragona," Maite explains. "I would add that it’s the ‘Home of Giants’ as well for the professional team you find there including the companies set in the marina."Having recently celebrated her tenth anniversary at the marina, Maite has witnessed first-hand the transformation of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> from a relatively quiet facility into one of the Mediterranean's most established technical yachting hubs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396338/image/large-fca205e48cc33ba9ee3fc59247f69023.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396338">A decade of growthMaite joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> after working in the hospitality industry for numerous years. Eager for a new challenge, joining <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> “felt like I was in the right place at the right moment; I usually remind my colleagues how lucky we are to work in such an industry.”&nbsp;Looking back at the last decade, it has been an exchange of experience: where Maite has brought in a lot of knowledge and know-how from the hospitality sector, as well as a fresh perspective, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> has, in turn, taught her almost everything she knows about yachting.&nbsp;During her time at the port, Maite has experienced many changes and developments “when I first started, the marina was a very different operation; much more quiet. Then we would be happy if we had all 20 berths full.” There would be time for her to get to know crew members and learn about the industry’s unique demands. For the past three years, during the high season, the 32 berths are constantly busy and it’s never quiet in the port - there is always something to do, someone to help, or a next event to organise.&nbsp;As <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> continues to grow, the challenge lies not only in meeting the increased operational demands, but also in preserving the company culture. Maite emphasises how “growth should enhance our service; it should never diminish the human connection that sits at the core of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a>.” It is precisely that view that makes <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> not just a well-functioning marina, but makes it a pleasant port to berth: there is attention to detail, service that includes empathy, and always that personal touch. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396341/image/large-9c8de7b3c0dc25537ef0e8138716f5dd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396341">A human-first approachDespite the busyness of the port, Maite ensures she and her team are always available for those whose paths traverse through <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a>. “I have always kept my sense of empathy towards others,” Maite shares, “we are working for people that are far away from home and their loved ones for months. Being conscious of the human side of the industry is the key to succeeding not just in this role, but as a marina."That philosophy remains central to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a>'s approach today. While the marina is renowned for its technical capabilities and infrastructure, the team places equal importance on creating an environment where crew, captains, contractors and guests feel welcomed and supported. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/64707/image/large-1ed133346042b25c7f81bc037d60865e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/64707">Maite is like the fairy godmother of the port, referring to it as “a factory of dreams coming true.” Vessels and crew that visit the port tend to be there for weeks or months at a time so the goal is to make them feel as comfortable as possible, to provide a sense of home. For Maite and her team that means helping with any type of request that they may receive. “Sometimes it’s helping someone book accommodation, sometimes it’s finding second-hand golf clubs or taking someone to the doctor. Other times it is nothing more than going for a walk with someone who just needs a listening ear.”Sometimes the requests are more technical, like finding a last-minute berthing spot for a superyacht when the marina is technically already fully booked. “Making things like that happen makes you feel fulfilled," Maite shares, “it’s a really, really good feeling.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396337/image/large-52265a745d7405de83cbd61a1434cb4b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396337">Entering the&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6623" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocibar (Company)">Ocibar</a>&nbsp;eraIn 2020, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6623" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocibar (Company)">Group Ocibar</a> took over management of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a>. Since then, the marina has grown exponentially, with an emphasis on creating quality experience for guests and employees alike. “There has been a huge change in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a>’s development when <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6623" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocibar (Company)">Ocibar</a> took over marina management,” Maite says. “The company projects both commercially and on the staff structure were a game changer.”The impact has been visible throughout the marina, which is constantly busy, seeing most of the 32 berths occupied, as well as facilities being expanded and improved and the reputation of the marina within the superyacht community has strengthened. “We’ll have captains who are eager to return and make a quick call to reserve a berth. But we also get a lot of superyachts via referrals, like a captain who recommends <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> to another captain.”&nbsp;Another important element of the marina is her security. With 24-hour surveillance and glass walls surrounding the entire premise, guests can feel safe and secure, as well as controlled dock access. While Maite finds that the port “has the perfect package,” the most important element of the work lies in the human element: “by being nice, providing good treatment and service to the boats, both in a technical and personal way.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396339/image/large-4fe39a4f831012eebfd1a87fd3917c28.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396339">Enabling growthAs <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> continues to grow, maintaining a balance between innovation and experience remains a priority. “New and fresh ideas are always on the table but experience is the base that took us where we are,” shares Maite, “so we try to strike a balance between the two.” Commercial assistant Laia Vidaller, who only recently joined the industry, highlights how working in yachting has been “dynamic and unique, every day, I get to see different parts of the industry.”The philosophy extends across the entire team. Different personalities, backgrounds and generations bring varying perspectives, but everyone shares the same objective: continuously improving the marina and the service delivered to its clients. “Nani [the Sales Business Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6623" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocibar (Company)">Ocibar</a>] is always running, he’s always one step ahead and has such a brilliant mind, this way of working has inspired me a lot,” shares Maite. While there are sometimes differences across departments, generations, or people, the overall goal is to create an environment that values the systems in place whilst looking towards innovative ideas to keep bettering the port. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/64712/image/large-3c9c102b9b04027c2f309de64732d9ef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/64712">One such way in which the port is innovating, is by focusing its attention to greener projects. With a shift in the yachting industry towards a next generation of owners, who tend to be younger and more focused on eco-friendly and eco-forward innovations, the port is happily joining this movement. "The growth of both the industry and the marina is already moving at high speed when caring about the environment," says Maite. "We can clearly see a huge commitment from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6623" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocibar (Company)">Ocibar</a>."“We’ve placed solar panels on all the buildings in the port, helping us with lighting across the facilities and along the docks,” shares Maite. Another project, which has been in place since 2023, is the water bubble barrier, which works to prevent rubbish from getting into the marina. “We are focused on keeping the marina eco-friendly and safe, but simultaneously we are also introducing two other projects that help keep the water surface in the marina as clean as possible.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396340/image/large-154331418f761509495fc13f2bd5694d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396340">When looking towards the future of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a>, one thing seems very clear: it’s centred on the people. While there is always an exciting new development in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> and no day is the same, it is the people that make it all happen. “I still see this industry as a factory of dreams coming true,” Maite shares. Watching <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> grow and welcoming more yachts from around the world is a challenge that keeps me excited.”&nbsp;Having developed into one of the most established technical yachting hubs in the Western Mediterranean, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a> continues to grow and push itself in what it can achieve and provide for both its visitors and its team members. Working across generations and varying levels of expertise, the port relies on existing structure and knowledge, as well as continuously welcoming fresh ideas and innovations. Maite notes how "the never-ending momentum of the yachting industry and the commitment of the company to its growth and people, it’s a reality that should make anyone excited about working in a place such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Port Tarraco (Company)">Port Tarraco</a>."

Why this Spanish marina is a key stop on the Mediterranean circuit 

A look inside the Spanish Port Tarraco, the superyacht hub located near Barcelona.

The 69.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5993" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Spectre69.2m (227'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2018">Spectre</a> has been spotted just outside Centraal Station, in Amsterdam. Built for American entrepreneur John Staluppi and delivered in 2018, the custom superyacht takes her name from the James Bond franchise, continuing the long-running 007 theme that has defined many of Staluppi's yachts. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396450/image/large-f41c63a866d0f7acf0d71ce4c28a44c2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396450">The yacht was subsequently sold to a new owner in 2019, and Staluppi has since commissioned an <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/65721" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serial yacht owner John Staluppi buys 82m Bilgin in-build yacht Project Bond (2026-03-27 11:30:00 +0100)">82-metre Bilgin currently under construction, Project Bond</a>.Constructed with a steel hull and aluminum superstructure, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5993" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Spectre69.2m (227'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2018">Spectre</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cassetta Yacht Designers (Company)">Cassetta Yacht Designers</a>, naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder Design</a> and interiors developed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>. According to <a href="https://sytiq.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht iQ</a>, she has recently benefitted from a refit in 2025.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396445/image/large-4c5e817a8c378d4fdff66750ed198fe7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396445">From the outside,&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5993" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Spectre69.2m (227'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2018">Spectre</a>&nbsp;presents sleek lines that are softened by flowing curves around her upper decks, horizontal glazing, tiered decks, and a sharp bow. Spacious outdoor areas provide multiple zones for relaxing and grand-scale entertaining.Aft, the deck highlights a raised pool flanked by massive lounge seating in vibrant blue, and a sit-up bar. One of her standout features is the beach club, which opens directly to the sea through sliding glass doors, while a secluded Jacuzzi on her private deck offers a more intimate retreat.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396448/image/large-04fb4b0b89da7186f36cb87ec1b29829.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396448">Stepping inside, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5993" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Spectre69.2m (227'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2018">Spectre</a> embraces a luxurious aesthetic defined by high-gloss dark wood finishes, polished stone surfaces and metallic detailing. Large windows throughout her main deck flood her living spaces with natural light while framing ocean views.Her main saloon, featuring curved sofas and bespoke furnishings, seamlessly transitions into a formal dining area. Mirrored ceiling panels, sculptural lighting elements and reflective finishes further enhance the sense of volume and depth throughout the space. A dramatic central staircase and glass elevator connect the yachts' decks while serving as a defining architectural facet onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396449/image/large-1ce7632e3d8c84bb9e6313a5b883f218.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396449">With a beam of 11.2-metres and spanning 1,403 GT, the yacht is arranged to accommodate up to 12 guests across six well-appointed staterooms. Dedicated quarters are provided for a crew of 15, including her captain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396444/image/large-3400a5c223236147f9970e1641aedb61.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396444">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5993" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Spectre69.2m (227'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2018">Spectre</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, delivering a cruising speed of 17 knots, a top speed of 21 knots and a range of approximately 6,000 nautical miles, reinforcing her long-cruising credentials.&nbsp;

69m Benetti motor yacht Spectre in Amsterdam

Take a closer look at the 69.2-metre Benetti superyacht Spectre that has been spotted in Amsterdam.

This 69m Benetti is turning heads in Central Amsterdam

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia Yachts (Company)">Arcadia Yachts</a> has announced the launch of the fourth hull in the 29.07-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14765" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia A96/0429.07m (95'4&quot;)Arcadia Yachts2026">Arcadia A96</a> yacht series from its facility in Napoli, Italy. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396355/image/large-5409c93db25bb7dd035f199e3a50768d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396355">Customised with her owner in mind, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14765" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia A96/0429.07m (95'4&quot;)Arcadia Yachts2026">A96</a> yacht features exterior design and naval architecture crafted in-house by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia Yachts (Company)">Arcadia Yachts</a>, while her interior was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lobanov Design (Company)">Lobanov Design</a>.“The A96 yacht perfectly embodies our concept of Arcadian Living,” explained Ugo Pellegrino, founder and CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia Yachts (Company)">Arcadia Yachts</a>. “For this fourth <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14765" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia A96/0429.07m (95'4&quot;)Arcadia Yachts2026">A96</a>, exchanging ideas with the owner has produced a design with a strong sense of identity, one that truly reflects his personal approach to experiencing the sea.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396356/image/large-ed29911e4107830ec8a38c953fc34ec6.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396356">A key focus of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14765" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia A96/0429.07m (95'4&quot;)Arcadia Yachts2026">Arcadia A96</a> yacht is her use of natural light, with her living areas benefitting from large sliding doors and windows that open fully to bridge the gap between her indoor and outdoor spaces.&nbsp;Spanning 214 GT, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14765" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia A96/0429.07m (95'4&quot;)Arcadia Yachts2026">Arcadia A96</a> yacht can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests across a five stateroom configuration, with her master suite situated forward on the main deck, while two double and two convertible twin staterooms can be found on the lower deck. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366175/image/large-1bfde17197ee5a988dc21cd01001f0c4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366175">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14765" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia A96/0429.07m (95'4&quot;)Arcadia Yachts2026">Arcadia A96</a> yacht features a 140 square-metre upper deck, making it one of the largest in her class. Her folding side terraces also expand her exterior deck space, offering almost 90 square-metres for her aft cockpit.&nbsp;With a beam of almost eight-metres and a draft of 1.77-metres, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14765" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia A96/0429.07m (95'4&quot;)Arcadia Yachts2026">Arcadia A96</a> yacht is able to access and anchor with ease in shallow waters, allowing her to access more anchorages and ports.&nbsp;In terms of performance, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14765" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia A96/0429.07m (95'4&quot;)Arcadia Yachts2026">Arcadia A96</a> yacht is powered by quadruple <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Volvo Penta (Company)">Volvo Penta</a> engines, providing her with a top speed of 24 knots.&nbsp;

Arcadia A96: Fourth 29m yacht launched

Arcadia Yachts has announced the launch of the fourth hull in the 29.07-metre Arcadia A96 yacht series from its facility in Napoli, Italy. 

Fourth 29m Arcadia A96 yacht launched in Italy

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1661" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tankoa Yachts S.p.A. (Company)">Tankoa Yachts</a> have announced that the new 61-metre full-custom superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16310" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Dream61.0m (200'2&quot;)Tankoa Yachts S.p.A.2029">Project Dream</a> is currently in-build, following her coin ceremony on 4 June in Civitavecchia. She has an expected delivery date of February 2029. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396335/image/large-20994b343d36614474f692d586e21e01.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396335">The sale of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16310" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Dream61.0m (200'2&quot;)Tankoa Yachts S.p.A.2029">Project Dream</a> to an American client was first announced in September 2025, with Jim Evans and Juan Andrade of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYachtsMonaco (Company)">SuperYachtsMonaco</a> introducing the buyer. The yacht is described by the shipyard as prioritising space efficiency, with meticulous attention to detail.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16310" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Dream61.0m (200'2&quot;)Tankoa Yachts S.p.A.2029">Project Dream</a> features exterior design and layout by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4364" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horacio Bozzo Design (Company)">Horacio Bozzo Design</a>, who also designed the concept, alongside interior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/926" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design (Company)">Sinot Yacht Architecture &amp; Design</a> and basic engineering and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1403" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Axis Group Yacht Design (Company)">Axis Group Yacht Design</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396332/image/large-41685bdb5247420ded4295c027b7ff08.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396332">Composed with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, the yacht has been designed in line with the owner’s vision, as well as staying true to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1661" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tankoa Yachts S.p.A. (Company)">Tankoa’</a>s boutique philosophy. According to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1661" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tankoa Yachts S.p.A. (Company)">Tankoa</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16310" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Dream61.0m (200'2&quot;)Tankoa Yachts S.p.A.2029">Project Dream</a> bridges the gap between a 60 and 70 metre platform, offering volume and luxury often associated with larger vessels.Conceived around a strong connection with the sea and an outdoor-oriented lifestyle, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16310" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Dream61.0m (200'2&quot;)Tankoa Yachts S.p.A.2029">Project Dream</a> features an exceptionally large beach area which opens on three sides through fold-down platforms. These directly connect to a wellness area providing a gym, a sauna and a massage/beauty centre.Spanning over 1,200 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16310" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Dream61.0m (200'2&quot;)Tankoa Yachts S.p.A.2029">Project Dream</a> boasts a private owner’s apartment on the upper deck, complete with a forward private terrace with a swimming pool, while additional guest accommodation can be found on her main deck<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396333/image/large-d50634b1d185cea5297db27942d72387.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396333">Her spacious sun deck has been designed with entertainment and relaxation in mind, with a second pool taking centre stage. A third pool can be found aft on the bridge deck, while additional features include a cinema lounge positioned aft on the bridge deck.“We worked closely with the clients for several months, initially focusing on one of our existing projects before moving on to a full custom design,” said Claudio Corvino, Sales and Business Development Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1661" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tankoa Yachts S.p.A. (Company)">Tankoa Yachts</a>.Construction will now further progress, with an expected delivery date of February 2029.

Project Dream: Construction begins on 61m Tankoa yacht

Tankoa Yachts have announced that the new 61m full-custom yacht Project Dream is currently in-build.

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61m full-custom Tankoa yacht Project Dream in-build

A fire broke out onboard the 34-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2768" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eagle Wings III34.0m (111'7&quot;)Custom Line2005">Eagle Wings III</a> at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2015" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="One °15 Marina (Company)">ONE°15 Marina</a> Sentosa Cove in Singapore on the morning of Sunday 7 June.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396329/image/large-df8d245fde54d5510b42f5a1cacf3c45.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396329">According to local news reports, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) was alerted to a fire at 11 Cove Drive at around 8:10am. The yacht was fully engulfed in flames, with land based emergency services arriving at the scene in seven minutes and immediately deploying a water jet from the pontoon to fight the fire.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2768" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eagle Wings III34.0m (111'7&quot;)Custom Line2005">Eagle Wings III</a> began drifting away from her berth, with an SCDF Marine Vessel also deployed as part of the operation. “At the height of the firefighting operation, two water jets from the pontoon and one water monitor from the SCDF Marine Vessel were deployed,” explained the Singapore Civil Defence Force.&nbsp;Eyewitnesses reports state that around 13:40, the yacht was partially submerged in the water. There were no reported injuries at the time of publication and the cause of the fire is still being investigated.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396330/image/large-2b40a148f09e6ca3d77483a385283abb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396330"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2768" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eagle Wings III34.0m (111'7&quot;)Custom Line2005">Eagle Wings III</a>&nbsp;was one of five yachts in the EagleWings Yacht Charters fleet that sailed to nearby islands such as Lazarus Island. She has since been removed from the website, but Chairman and founder Julian Theng posted on social media that, "It was tough seeing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2768" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eagle Wings III34.0m (111'7&quot;)Custom Line2005">Eagle Wings III</a>go up in flames. So sudden and unexpected that a piece of my heart sank with it."He shared that when he arrived at the scene, he saw the captain and hugged him. "So grateful that the crew is safe and that no one was injured. Farewell <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2768" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eagle Wings III34.0m (111'7&quot;)Custom Line2005">Eagle Wings III</a>, we will miss you. The awesome memories will live on."Launched in 2005 as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a> 112 series, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2768" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eagle Wings III34.0m (111'7&quot;)Custom Line2005">Eagle Wings III</a> features interior and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuccon International Project (Company)">Zuccon International Project</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>. Spanning 213 GT, the Italian-built yacht can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests across a five stateroom configuration.&nbsp;Her master suite is situated forward on the main deck, while a full-beam VIP suite is located amidships on the lower deck, alongside a double stateroom forward and two twin staterooms. Performance-wise, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2768" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eagle Wings III34.0m (111'7&quot;)Custom Line2005">Eagle Wings III</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines that provide her with a top speed of 28.5 knots and a cruising speed of 25 knots.

Eagle Wings III: Fire destroys yacht at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove

A fire broke out onboard the 34m Custom Line yacht Eagle Wings III at the ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove in Singapore on the morning of Sunday 7 June.

Fire destroys 34m yacht Eagle Wings III at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore

The 99.13-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christina O99.13m (325'3&quot;)Canadian Vickers1943">Christina O</a> is currently on the market, with Dennis Frederiksen of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> and Tim Morley of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Morley Yachts (Company)">Morley Yachts</a> appointed as joint central agents. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/directories/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> presents the opportunity to acquire one of the most recognisable yachts in the world.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393254/image/large-b8cad689f5df6c9553b06d7488a9e151.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393254">Originally built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/297" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Canadian Vickers (Company)">Canadian Vickers</a> in 1943, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christina O99.13m (325'3&quot;)Canadian Vickers1943">Christina O</a> was formerly known as Argo. She served as a Canadian naval vessel during World War II, before being acquired by Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, who transformed her into one of the most iconic private yachts of her era.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393232/image/large-bf285f17f9b9726616b6b97716fd854b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393232"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393239/image/large-96b650835fd26884a8f646edcacc644b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393239">Following an extensive rebuild between 1999 and 2001, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/directories/yachts/for-sale/of-type=motor" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> has established herself as one of the industry's most successful charter vessels and has been represented on the charter market by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> for many years.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393240/image/large-7476956cca68d61f2c19848f9de46b81.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393240">Throughout her history, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christina O99.13m (325'3&quot;)Canadian Vickers1943">Christina O</a> has hosted a number of prominent guests, including Sir Winston Churchill, John F. Kennedy, Maria Callas and Jackie Kennedy. More recently, the yacht has appeared in major productions including The Crown and Triangle of Sadness.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393241/image/large-65ef920f513cc26a36176c7948532d05.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393241">Built with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christina O99.13m (325'3&quot;)Canadian Vickers1943">Christina O</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/298" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caesar Pinnau (Company)">Caesar Pinnau</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/298" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caesar Pinnau (Company)">Caesar Pinnau</a> in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/299" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costas Carabelas (Company)">Costas Carabelas</a>. Her interior was designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/300" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apostolos Molindris & Associates (Company)">Apostolos Molindris &amp; Associates</a>. The yacht underwent an extensive rebuild between 1999 and 2001 and most recently completed a refit in 2023.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393252/image/large-3bc1c029cfcea55848ffae03c1a15f67.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393252"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393247/image/large-e8f0f686edc999be6527673064935c0c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393247">Outside, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/directories/yachts/for-sale/of-type=motor" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> retains the elegance of a classic superyacht, characterised by wide teak decks and a myriad of areas for entertaining. Her upper decks offer expansive lounge and dining spaces, alongside a Jacuzzi and panoramic views of the surrounding seas.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393238/image/large-6c85bdbf280e4cf7ac0d86b1e5a14442.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393238"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393250/image/large-02695f97aa41c822595328596ac97aa0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393250"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393253/image/large-42fab8fc09faa3fdd1da075e833c5b95.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393253">A paragon of social opulence, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christina O99.13m (325'3&quot;)Canadian Vickers1943">Christina O</a> is equipped for grand-scale entertaining, accommodating as many as 157 guests while at anchor. Perhaps her most enchanting feature is her mosaic-lined swimming pool, which features a rising floor that transforms into a dance floor for unforgettable evenings under the stars.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393233/image/large-62349646c4471793b115efe857ae4adb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393233">Stepping inside, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christina O99.13m (325'3&quot;)Canadian Vickers1943">yacht Christina O for sale</a> preserves many of her historic features. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/directories/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> is home to historic spaces including Jackie Kennedy Lapis Lounge, the Callas Lounge, and the historic Ari’s Bar. She also features a wellness area and various elegant spaces for dining and entertaining. Rich wood panelling, handcrafted detailing and traditional furnishings all contribute to further echo the yacht's celebrated heritage.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393228/image/large-f7410ccb3767abbe5c61f89fdbf8be89.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393228"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393235/image/large-8bd3ab4686a9f20d10f91aea6b34c186.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393235">With staggering volumes of 1,802 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christina O99.13m (325'3&quot;)Canadian Vickers1943">Christina O</a> can accommodate up to 36 guests across 17 staterooms, while dedicated quarters house up to 34 crew members, including her captain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393230/image/large-86db902424a61ccf59c895ff9dab4069.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393230">In terms of performance, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christina O99.13m (325'3&quot;)Canadian Vickers1943">yacht Christina O for sale</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, delivering a cruising speed of 15 knots and a top speed of 19.5 knots.

99m classic superyacht Christina O for sale

The 99m Canadian Vickers superyacht Christina O has been listed for sale with Fraser and Morley Yachts as joint central agents.


<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1148" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AvA Yachts (Company)">AvA Yachts</a> has announced that the 25.7-metre first Kando 85 motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13941" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V25.7m (84'4&quot;)AvA Yachts2026">V</a> has been launched. The yacht was sold in 2025 with Maria Razumi of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5144" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Smart Yachts (Company)">Smart Yachts</a> introducing the buyer.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396327/image/large-59817de000449dbe1bab7fddabc62b80.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396327">Built for long voyages, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13941" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V25.7m (84'4&quot;)AvA Yachts2026">V</a> features exterior design and naval architecture penned in-house by her Turkish builder. The full-displacement yacht is constructed with eight to 10-millimetre thick underwater steel and several watertight bulkheads.&nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/62221" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="New images of 26m in-build AvA yacht Kando 85 unveiled (2024-12-13 10:45:00 +0100)">New images of 26m in-build AvA yacht Kando 85 unveiled</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13941" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V25.7m (84'4&quot;)AvA Yachts2026">V</a> accommodates up to eight guests across four well-appointed staterooms, with a volume of 200 GT. Her layout features a master suite located forward on the main deck, complete with a dayhead, panoramic windows, a desk, and an en suite bathroom. A full-beam VIP, a double stateroom to starboard, and a twin suite to port that can convert to a double complete the accommodation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396328/image/large-2a69398f74f5bb986761edc79ab45116.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396328">Aft, built-in seating surrounds an outdoor dining table for alfresco meals, complemented by a spacious swim platform providing easy access to the water. The foredeck is fitted with a Jacuzzi, offering guests a relaxed space to enjoy the surroundings.In terms of propulsion system, the yacht is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Volvo Penta (Company)">Volvo Penta</a> engines, giving her a cruising speed of nine knots and a top speed of 12 knots.&nbsp;Moreover,&nbsp;the second&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/15354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AvA Kando 85/02 25.7m (84'4&quot;)AvA Yachts">Kando 85</a>&nbsp;yacht is currently available for sale with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5144" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Smart Yachts (Company)">Smart Yachts</a> and is scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of 2027.(Photos provided courtesy of Smart Yachts.)

First AvA Kando 85 motor yacht V launched

AvA Yachts has announced that the 25.7-metre first Kando 85 motor yacht V has been launched.


Owner Experience

Insight: A closer look at the Latin American superyacht market