Today (8 March 2023) marks International Women’s Day, a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality in all industries.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227489/image/large-17c5e1deaf6f19225da98b84465e4c31.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227489">A 2021 report conducted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6715" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="She of the Sea (Company)">She of the Sea</a> into diversity within the yachting industry found that of 1,800 crew members employed by contributing management companies, only 28.7 percent of them were women. Even more shocking is that only 1.9 percent of these female crew members were captains.&nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="International Day for Women in Maritime 2022: How the tides are turning for women in yachting (2022-05-18 15:45:00 +0200)">International Day for Women in Maritime 2022: How the tides are turning for women in yachting</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260776/image/large-d6cfb76bb4063cf0cc5bfd823cf2512d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260776">Across the industry there are women thriving on the challenge of changing these statistics. One of those is world-renowned captain and star of Bravo TV’s reality hit show Below Deck Mediterranean, Captain Sandy Yawn. “Looking back, I was never offered any career advice, I actually answered an advertisement in the newspaper under the jobs section. I didn't even know that there was a maritime school for people like me who did not graduate high school, until I heard about Maritime Professional Training in Fort Lauderdale.”&nbsp;Over the years, Captain Sandy Yawn has worked hard to prove her worth in a male-dominated industry. “In the past I was turned down for a new-build because the owner was from another country and didn't think a woman could be in command. That one made me laugh out loud! I would love to see more women take the helm and show the world that we are capable of taking command.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260781/image/large-37b823fd4d122236da84373430a312a9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260781">Captain Sandy Yawn has built a name for herself and is well-known in both the maritime industry and from the American reality television series, Below Deck Mediterranean. The Below Deck franchise has grown in popularity and is currently on season seven, with Captain Sandy Yawn at the helm of the 49.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5959" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Home49.8m (163'5&quot;)Heesen Yachts2017">Home</a> in the pristine waters of Malta.The show continues to highlight the job roles for women in the industry and is finding new ways to inspire them to want to learn more. “They are reaching millions of people and I am so happy to be on the show,” commented Captain Sandy Yawn. “It shows little girls and women all over the country and the world that they can have a life at sea!”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/48219" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="International Women's Day 2018: Inspiring women in yachting (2018-03-08 14:30:00 +0100)">International Women's Day 2018: Inspiring women in yachting<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260762/image/large-443c3e685ed41251fb4979bd56bfdf5a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260762"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a> Sales Broker, Annie Avery took up sailing from a young age with her family and brother-in-law Fred. “After a year of private sailboat cruising with my family in the Caribbean I decided I wanted to be a captain to really learn about responsibility,” reminisced Annie Avery. “I confided in Fred that I was uneasy about putting myself out there as a captain as I was worried about the machinery on a charter boat. He put his arm around me, swooped his other across the harbour in St. Thomas and said, ‘Annie, do you think all those guys on that boat went to Detroit Diesel School? No, I said. ‘That’s right and you’re going to learn just like they did,’ he reassured me.”Annie eventually traded her sea legs to become one of a handful of female yacht sales brokers in the world working with powerhouse Northrop &amp; Johnson. “As a yacht broker, my experience as a yacht captain prior gave me a good foundation for knowing the product I was selling and I have had wonderful advisors and cheerleaders along the way– which have been mostly men!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219126/image/large-206b550a22422538d353d3e1d1b64044.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219126">Over the years, Annie has seen the industry start to evolve with more women involved. “Progress is definitely being made, more women are now brokers, naval architects, captains, and managers than when I first started,” explained Annie Avery.“The first company that did hire me confided one of the reasons they did, was because they passed over a woman, one of the very first, who became a very successful yacht broker. I have also been in situations where assumptions were made about me as a woman. I considered it a good opportunity to intentionally stand in my own authentic power. I always remember Eleanor Roosevelt’s quote: “Nobody can make you feel inferior except by your own consent.”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/49663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Super yachting females on International Women’s Day 2019 (2019-03-08 10:30:00 +0100)">Super yachting females on International Women’s Day 2019</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260758/image/large-d114845098d9a706f89986d98c42100b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260758">The yachting industry is constantly changing with more women stepping up to the plate to take on managerial positions. One of those is Giovanna Vitelli, former Vice President of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Azimut|Benetti Group</a> who was recently appointed Chairwoman of the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/azimut-benetti-group" target="_blank">Group</a>.Commenting on the appointment, Giovanna Vitelli said, “I would like to thank my father infinitely for his trust and the teachings of a lifetime, as well as all the people who have made and will continue to make the history of our Group”. &nbsp;The shipyard stated, “The path forward of continuity in the family, strongly desired by the founder Paolo Vitelli, guarantees the stability necessary to seize all the opportunities of the future.”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57093" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Giovanna Vitelli named Chairwoman of Azimut|Benetti Group (2023-03-07 15:15:00 +0100)">Giovanna Vitelli named Chairwoman of Azimut|Benetti Group</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260756/image/large-7a29c7bb12f0ed57baa2fd9404a7187a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260756">Based in Fort-Lauderdale, Florida, interior designer Destry Darr Pethtel of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2524" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Destry Darr Designs (Company)">Destry Darr Designs</a> draws on her family legacy to provide a comprehensive menu of yacht interior design services. “I always had an artistic and creative eye but was also very analytical as a child,” commented Destry Darr Pethtel. “In school, I was always drawing – anything from Barbie dolls, to crazy hybrid fantasy creatures, to stylised renditions of yacht exteriors and very technical drawings of lighthouses and building facades. At a very young age, I thought I wanted to be an architect.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260775/image/large-7170215367ea40988422bb9882dee971.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260775">Prior to founding her firm in April 2004, Destry refined her skills as an interior designer for several world class, well-known yacht interior design firms. “LIke so many women, I juggled the responsibilities of raising a family and growing a business at the same time, but I have been blessed with tremendous help and support along the way - from my parents, grandmother and aunt, to my husband, Rodney, who left his own career to join me as our business took off.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260773/image/large-b67a6fdceedb6234a1757379417985d0.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260773">“My philosophy is work hard, hone your skills, pursue what you love and figure out how to be the best at it. I’ve always operated with a vision of what I want for my business in the future and have seized the opportunities and taken the risks necessary to achieve these goals,” added Destry Darr Pethtel. “Building a strong reputation through this journey has been instrumental in our success as well. Taking a risk might be scary but it can come with a big payoff.” Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/52809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ione Astondoa: Carving a space for women in the yachting industry (2021-04-29 15:00:00 +0200)">Ione Astondoa: Carving a space for women in the yachting industry</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/52809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ione Astondoa: Carving a space for women in the yachting industry (2021-04-29 15:00:00 +0200)"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260760/image/large-b38f4461d79d96020f16ef126adc1226.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260760"></a>Like Destry Darr Pethtel, many women choose to pave their own path in the industry and a great example of that is business owner and Development Consultant of Onboard Monaco, Marcela de Kern Royer. “I faced many hurdles on my journey as I am an immigrant to Europe, so I needed visas and work permits to get started. On top of that English was not my first language so I worked hard as both a woman and a Latina to set up my business.”&nbsp;Monaco-based resident Marcela de Kern Royer combines a passion for yachting with a strong international academic background, along with her past experiences in asset management. She has gained excellent exposure to all facets of the industry, starting as a supplier and having experience in new-build, refit, brokerage, and yacht management.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260761/image/large-822c6f306d21c5327096e1c7bed8f814.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260761">“I was inspired by the role models of my parents as both of them were entrepreneurs and very successful business people. I combined what I love doing, with my inspiration from other powerful women from not just this industry, but all walks of life.”Marcela started in the industry at the age of 18 and has seen a shift in the roles of women since she began. “There are a lot more women in higher positions now than when I first started. I had to work through the career ladder to get to where I am today. Being a woman in this industry turned out to not only be my strength, but my superpower and because of that I am grateful to all my previous bosses, who were men. They all helped me get to the position I am in today, as they believed in me every step of the way.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260783/image/large-000e3ba5928e5d4613b24f1e7ae7ff58.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260783">As an influential person in yachting, Marcela de Kern Royer has created a powerful online community for yacht owners and professionals and operates a very impressive platform, but it has not been without its challenges. “As both a mother and a businesswoman, I have had my fair share of struggles to balance this lifestyle. But it is important to not give up and to remain resilient and persistent in everything you do.”"As Franklin D. Roosevelt said "A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor," so cast off the lines and let your adventure begin,” concluded Annie Avery.

International Women’s Day 2023: Women in yachting

Northrop and Johnson Yacht Show

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Women in Yachting

Designer Destry Darr Pethtel of Destry Darr Designs

Giovanna and Paulo Vitelli of Azimut-Benetti Group

Marcela de Kern Royer of Onboard Monaco

Ann Avery, Sales Broker at Northrop & Johnson

Hannah yacht saloon

Hannah yacht stateroom

Captain Sandra 'Sandy' Yawn

Today (8 March 2023) marks International Women’s Day, SYT takes a look at the inspirational women at the helm of change in the yachting industry.

International Women’s Day 2023: Women at the helm of change

Founded in the mid-2000s by three partners Peder Eidsgaard, Ewa Eidsgaard and Ben Harrison, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/168" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Harrison Eidsgaard (Company)">Harrison Eidsgaard</a> has evolved into one of the foremost design studios in the superyacht industry. Having bought their own studio and completely redesigned the space during an 18 month renovation, the 16 strong design team is now spread across four open-plan floors, within a bright and contemporary building featuring industrial elements that embodies the collaborative and open source mentality of the team. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314726/image/large-d1b41c33aa533907165816dd791caccf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314726">This year is full of milestones for the studio, with the launch or delivery of six superyachts between 80 and 45 metres and the development of its first semi-custom series projects with both <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>. The studio is also finalising the dramatic two-year refit of the 72.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4814" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Albatross72.2m (236'11&quot;)Delta Marine2016">Albatross</a> at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a>, another exciting project that reflects the breadth of the firm's capabilities.&nbsp;We took a tour of their new studio this Spring and sat down with the founders, as well as Senior Design Director Richard Whitehouse, to find out more about how <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/168" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Harrison Eidsgaard (Company)">Harrison Eidsgaard</a> has developed over the past twenty years, to get an insight into the upcoming projects and to hear a bit more about the culture that sits at the heart of every project the studio creates.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314729/image/large-2bfc1b544a3cbbfbc709b267440bd9d6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314729">Space to reflect ethosUnlike many of its contemporaries, the studio was formed as a collaboration from its very beginning, and as a result there is no one leader that represents all of its projects. With project management split between the four senior team members, the studio is nimble, able to take on a number of significant projects despite its small size in terms of employees. Peder explains, “When we founded the company we always intended to remain small because we believe that the hands-on approach of the senior designers is extremely important. That belief has remained and we are all very active, particularly in the early stages of the design process, which is vital for the development of all team members.”Ewa adds, “Over the years we have grown conservatively, and we are advocates for slow growth. We have worked hard to maintain the ethos of a small firm, and as a result we are very careful when it comes to selecting new team members because our passion is for younger team members to learn all the time from the senior designers.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314728/image/large-9b8715a217759f40312831080de5b769.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314728">The design of the studio itself deeply reflects that ethos of collaboration, and though the building is split over four floors, an entirely open and interconnecting stairwell at the heart unites the two design floors in both proximity and sound. While the three founders are above sharing their space with the samples area, their airspace is intrinsically linked with the team on the floor below and as a result their creative discussions are shared with the entire team, allowing them to learn from each other. When discussing the new space with their clients, all shared the same desire to “see where the magic happens”, and to get an insight into the workings of the studio from its surroundings.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314732/image/large-975307acebacff133b502924b39a8c19.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314732">Interior DesignThe sample area is a perfect example of those inner workings. The space over with Ewa reigns is open plan with a series of large storage tables, each bursting with fabrics swatches, marble slabs and intricate wall samples, where material choices can be arranged and examined. Like the inner workings of a designer's mind, the team is able to pick over thousands of the world’s best samples and pull together their clients wishes – often with the client in collaboration, working alongside them at the studio to realise their ideas. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/306169/image/large-83e2dd0d9a1b94d7f768948b67ee85d3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/306169">When asked to describe Ewa’s technique and style, Ben and Richard agreed that it is Ewa, who leads the interior team, that is bravest among them, “she is boldest and bravest, always researching, always seeking out the newest techniques, the most interesting materials to incorporate the fashions of the day and to push us into exciting territory.” Inquisitive and palpably excited by design and its ever changing trends, Ewa is passionate about contemporary design, a passion that all founders share.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/306171/image/large-721d0fe8afd7bad49091972345dae8eb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/306171">During an interview with SYT in 2018, Ben Harrison commented that it was that very passion that united the founders in the first place. He adds, “We all share that love for modern contemporary design, but our work is not limited to that alone and our projects reflect our adaptability – which is a vital ability when it comes to custom superyacht design.” While the studio has created an array of interior projects, their fingerprints can be seen within a collective purity, spotlighting a limited selection of materials and creating focal points of design within each space.Representative of the studio’s principles, their touch can be seen within the designs of the new Xplorer 80 from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>. Unveiled in March during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palm Beach International Boat Show - 2024">Palm Beach Boat Show</a>, the Xplorer 80 is a prime example of the studio’s interior work. Encapsulating the vessels intended use as a go anywhere explorer superyacht, the spaces are balanced between functionality and aesthetic design and the overall result is a serene and luxurious concept.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/104137/image/large-89e38f5e9a14871220366ade1dbe0c83.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/104137">Exterior&nbsp;While all design at the studio is a collaborative effort, Peder Eidsgaard leads the charge when it comes to exterior design. His creative flair can be quickly identified in the lines of both the studio’s larger projects, such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6423" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CC-Summer95.0m (311'8&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Madsummer</a> (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6423" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CC-Summer95.0m (311'8&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">CC-Summer</a>), <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2449" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tango77.7m (254'11&quot;)Feadship2011">Tango</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7129" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vanish71.5m (234'7&quot;)Feadship2021">Vanish</a>, right through to the smaller projects such as the new 50 Steel series from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, Grace.&nbsp;Championing traditional design skills, Peder emphasises the importance of working from paper and pen and his process is fluid, translating the wishes of the owner into 2D dimensions before they are developed in CAD. “Today there is a great focus on 3-dimensional drawings for superyacht projects, but I believe that sketching by hand is an integral part of the design process,” explains Peder Eidsgaard. “For the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7129" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vanish71.5m (234'7&quot;)Feadship2021">Vanish</a>, launched in 2021, the final yacht is almost identical to the sketch I created while sitting in the airport directly after meeting the client – it is that intuitive design process that we really pride ourselves on here at the studio.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314733/image/large-be77ee54f3d12dcda8df218c8465402e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314733">When asked to identify the key thematic elements within their work, both Ben and Peder responded that it is the sight-lines that they are extremely careful to preserve. “Good design is almost impossible to put your finger on,” adds Ben Harrison, “but when something isn't right, you feel it when you’re within the space.” A subtle balance that comes with experience and expertise, the details of elements such as door and bulwark heights, that impact the visibility from within and outside the vessel, are a preoccupation of the team.Recognising a yacht as a platform upon which an owner and their guests can live and experience life, and as a result the studio is deeply focused on the flow through the vessel and the feeling of being aboard. This all comes back to the value the team shares of creating a liveable design, with individual focal points within each space, so that the design embraces the guest rather than overwhelms them. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/306178/image/large-5eb233cb0e7bd4da7954bb58a9eb192d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/306178">Semi-Custom CreationsWhile the studio is best known for its full-custom superyacht projects, such as the 74.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6403" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M’Brace74.5m (244'5&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2018">Elandess</a> (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6403" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M’Brace74.5m (244'5&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2018">M'Brace</a>), 95-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6423" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CC-Summer95.0m (311'8&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Madsummer</a> or the 77.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2449" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tango77.7m (254'11&quot;)Feadship2011">Tango</a>, the past year has seen an exciting development for the team, with the announcement of semi-custom superyacht projects with both <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a>. Both Dutch shipyards are renowned for the success of their semi-custom series’, and the new 50 Steel series with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> and the interior projects for the later <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a> 60 series, mark a turning point for the studio, while also offering new potential within the remit of design.&nbsp;Though semi-custom is not entirely new for the team, they have been working on the exterior and interior of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5725" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scout Boats (Company)">Scout Boats</a>’ new 67-foot flagship sportfisher, as well as previous projects with the Airbus 160, it has offered the studio an opportunity to experiment with a new level of creativity. Ewa adds, “it's a balancing act, on one side you are unlimited in terms of potential, but on the other you are looking to create a design that has a broad appeal and can easily be adapted in terms of styling, which is an exciting challenge for the entire team.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314735/image/large-4c22fa1e2997aa7f388030ef611bdd77.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314735">An exciting moment for the studio in terms of the business itself, Ben Harrison in particular has been championing the semi-custom capabilities of the company to diversify the studio’s portfolio. Full-custom projects, and the studio has a number of large full custom yachts under construction at the moment, such as the the 79-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Toro79.0m (259'2&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2024">Toro</a> at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise</a>, tend to be incredibly private yachts.&nbsp;Now with more than 14 projects underway, we hope that we’ll be seeing even more of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/168" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Harrison Eidsgaard (Company)">Harrison Eidsgaard</a>’s designs over the coming years, and make sure to keep your eyes peeled in the coming months for the launch of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Toro79.0m (259'2&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2024">Toro</a>.

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Our favourite star-studded superyachts on film and TV

Adam Sutton, Sales and Purchase Consultant at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a>, discovered his early passion for sailing during his time in the scouts. His professional journey reflects a diverse background, transitioning from selling industrial equipment in Sheffield to joining a superyacht crew. He ascended from the role of a deckhand to Chief Officer, simultaneously serving as a second engineer along the way. He has sailed on the 38.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/104" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jongert Yachts (Company)">Jongert</a> schooner <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3971" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gloria38.4m (125'12&quot;)Jongert Yachts1986">Gloria</a>, the 32-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/113" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CMN Yacht Division (Company)">CMN</a> Yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3550" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bella Vita32.0m (104'12&quot;)CMN Yacht Division2003">Bella Vita</a>, previously named Necker Belle and the 30.49-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/474" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachting Developments (Company)">Yachting Developments</a> sailing catamaran <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1627" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Quintessential30.49m (100'0&quot;)Yachting Developments2012">Quintessential</a> AKA Q5. Currently, Adam Sutton is representing the first and second hull of the 25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Victory Design s.r.l. (Company)">Victory Design</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bolide 8024.9m (81'8&quot;)Victory Design s.r.l.2023">Bolide 80</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> spoke with Adam to delve into his background, discuss how he secured the CA agency for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bolide 8024.9m (81'8&quot;)Victory Design s.r.l.2023">Bolide 80</a>, and explore current trends in the market.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297128/image/large-999efbc6f6f131361d46112289086d61.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297128">Is there anyone in particular who has inspired your career in yachting?The person who has been a significant inspiration in my yachting career is captain Simon Johnson. He was one of the first captains to charter a boat into Antigua, navigating the waters even before the existence of docks or other major infrastructure.&nbsp;He is known for his approachability and unwavering commitment to his crew. During ocean crossings, he dedicates time to teach navigation skills and willingly imparts his knowledge to anyone with questions.&nbsp;Simon's also actively contributes to the broader yachting community. An example of his commitment to developing talent is his effort to engage with the RYA chairwoman. This interaction aimed to ensure that new talents are nurtured, fostering the growth of new crew members and, eventually, future captains.How has your background as a crew member and in sales influenced your perspective and approach?<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297036/image/large-6cdbe264ad0575a0a5ea6057b975bbf1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297036">Throughout my career, I've acquired practical knowledge and hands-on experience, gaining insights into the day-to-day operations and the essential elements that make a yacht ideal for an owner. An often overlooked aspect is the pivotal role of the crew in shaping the owner's experience. The contentment of the crew is critical, and one significant factor contributing to their satisfaction is the functional design of the yacht. This encompasses considerations from living accommodations to practical storage solutions, including provisions for flatware, service storage, and the overall design of the galley.The impact of an unhappy crew is well-known – high turnover not only incurs increased costs but also poses a potential detriment to the owner's overall enjoyment of the vessel. Serving as a second engineer has provided me with a robust background in electronics, IT, and engineering.&nbsp;This technical expertise extends beyond the comfort aspects of a yacht; it's about understanding the intricate technicalities. This engineering focus is crucial because it allows me to better interpret an owner's desires. Having been onboard with owners, both as crew and working for them, I recognise the diversity in their preferences; each owner is unique.How did you come to obtain the central agency of the first hull of the 25m&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Victory Design s.r.l. (Company)">Victory Design</a>&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bolide 8024.9m (81'8&quot;)Victory Design s.r.l.2023">Bolide 80</a>?<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/275058/image/large-a51a1dbdb3552999fc3a3369cf8d7595.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/275058">We earned our place on their shortlist due to the size of our business and our distinctive approach. During initial discussions, I, along with our marketing director and Toby Maclaurin, our sales director, engaged in a personalised conversation. Our approachability resonated with them. What truly sealed the deal was our commitment to responsiveness. By responsiveness, I don't mean answering emails at late hours; rather, it's about promptly providing candid answers to their inquiries and avoiding commitments that cannot be fulfilled.&nbsp;The emphasis on genuine communication played a crucial role in securing their trust. With considerable interest in the vessel. We've also successfully secured the Central Agency for the subsequent nine hulls.What emerging trends in yacht sales have you seen over the past six months?There is a noticeable trend leaning towards catamarans, and at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a>, we're actively involved in a project with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> that is currently in the build phase. It's amusing to reflect on my previous experience working on catamarans, like Necker Belle, back when they were not as mainstream. Now, we're witnessing an increasing presence of catamarans in the market. Two significant announcements at this year's <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/182" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2023">Monaco Yacht Show</a> further highlight this trend, the 43.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/511" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tecnomar (Company)">Tecnomar</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a> and the 46.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">Artexplorer</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297039/image/large-50f3788e7743975b829d52ed60fc3860.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297039">Catamarans are notably wider than most motor yachts, providing an expansive and stable platform. This enhanced stability is particularly noteworthy in the current market landscape. For example, during Christmas on Necker Belle, we had a Christmas tree up even while sailing because it was that stable. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/275060/image/large-b5bf543e35b215921218ad1d07389a10.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/275060">I believe speed is still crucial because there are many clients, particularly the younger ones we're discussing. They have less time, likely due to their active work schedules. Being reachable is essential for them, as they aim to maximise their time, wanting to see and do more. What sets the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bolide 8024.9m (81'8&quot;)Victory Design s.r.l.2023">Bolide 80</a> apart is her unique efficiency achieved through speed, allowing her to cover more ground with significantly lower fuel consumption compared to yachts of a similar size.There is a notable shift towards environmentally conscious practices in the superyacht industry. Is this emphasis on sustainability a response to the evident costs associated with conventional approaches? Incidents involving the malicious throwing of hardware paint on superyachts have rendered them vulnerable, compelling owners to be concerned about the security of their vessels even within supposedly secure marinas. Consequently, the urgency to adopt greener alternatives has gained significant traction.Finally, personally, if you could invest in a yacht, what would you choose and why?If I were to invest in a yacht, my preferences would vary for different reasons. Firstly, I'm drawn to classics, such as the 36.58-metre<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/192" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard (Company)">&nbsp;Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> sailing yacht, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1276" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shamrock V36.58m (120'0&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1930">Shamrock Five</a>. Additionally, I hold a fondness for old classic motor yachts. The allure lies in my appreciation for the historical significance these vessels carry.&nbsp;Preserving their legacy is not just a personal preference but a commitment to safeguarding their history. These classic yachts are more than vessels; they are veritable works of art. Their timeless beauty and influence on contemporary boat design make them an enduring source of inspiration, with many features we see today rooted in their legacy. mirroring the same sentiment for their historical value and impact on the evolution of boat design. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297127/image/large-06c267f5ce10432c2a04f9406ea121e9.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297127">Looking towards the future, a hybrid sailing catamaran intrigues me. Its hybrid nature aligns with my commitment to environmental sustainability. Such vessels offer an extended range and a greener footprint, reflecting a more responsible approach to yacht ownership.

Broker Insights: Meet Adam Sutton Sales and Purchase Consultant at Ocean Independence  

SuperYacht Times spoke with Adam to delve into his background, discuss and explore current trends in the market.

Broker Insights: Adam Sutton, from sailing to sales

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4774" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pulina Exclusive Interiors (Company)">Alessandro Pulina</a> has a wealth of experience garnered from working with established Italian shipyards, including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>. Since founding his design studio, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4774" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pulina Exclusive Interiors (Company)">Pulina Exclusive Interiors</a>, in 2014, he has undertaken projects worldwide, with a growing emphasis on the superyachting sector in China coupled with a dedication to sourcing sustainable materials for the interior design of superyachts.<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Superyacht Times</a> had the opportunity to speak with Founder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4774" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pulina Exclusive Interiors (Company)">Alessandro Pulina</a>, to delve into his background, the inception of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4774" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pulina Exclusive Interiors (Company)">Pulina Exclusive Interiors</a>, the firm's design philosophy, and its ongoing projects.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295422/image/large-de56c8286bd4759c0c42b0fc41631a4c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295422">Tell me a little about yourself, including your background, education, and how you entered the yachting industry.&nbsp;My connection to the yachting industry dates back to my youth when my father owned a small motor yacht and would spend ample time onboard. This memorable experience not only fuelled my passion for yacht design but led me to choose it as my final course during my studies at the University of Florence. I was very fortunate to meet Guido Spadolini, an innovative architect and visionary who helped me work on my thesis, which focused on the design of a 21-metre fast open yacht.After graduating in Architecture, I enrolled in a unique master’s degree program, established through a partnership with the universities of &nbsp;Florence, Genoa, and Pisa. This master’s course played a pivotal role in my entry into the yachting sector. Immediately following its completion, I secured a position as an interior designer with the shipyard Filippo Picchiotti (FP), owned by one of the members of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Picchiotti (Company)">Picchiotti</a> family, previous owners of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Picchiotti (Company)">Picchiotti</a> brand. There, I collaborated extensively with the exterior designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4575" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Paolo Caliari Design (Company)">Paolo Caliari</a> on the Jaguar brand, a series of &nbsp;yachts ranging from 21 to 27-metres, that were sold in the American and European market. Unfortunately, the shipyard fell into bankruptcy in 2008.After FP, I joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> as style manager for their fibreglass projects for approximately 10 years, mostly managing production in Viareggio and Fano. I successfully managed around 500 yacht projects, overseeing the intensive production process. Notable projects included the development of new series yachts such as the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> Crystal, Mediterraneo, Tradition, and the Classic Supreme series. As style manager, I was also responsible for developing the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a> Grande project; we delivered the first unit of the series to a client in Hong Kong. &nbsp;During this period, I extensively travelled worldwide, gaining insights into the yachting industry across different countries. The experience in various shipyards equipped me with the tools and knowledge necessary, allowing me to refine my creative vision. The combination of these experiences eventually inspired me to establish my own design studio in 2014, which is approaching its ten-year anniversary next year.&nbsp;Can you share how the firm has evolved over the years and elaborate on the projects you are currently involved in?<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295443/image/large-c1be7d8714fb13fa0bbc24ac320dadb4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295443">Over the years, our firm has undergone significant growth, expanding to two offices, one located in the heart of Pisa with a team of 15 employees, housed in a beautiful historic building just a short distance from the iconic Tower of Pisa, and another strategically positioned in the art centre of Shanghai. Moreover, I have also been recently appointed as a consultant for the Chinese government in the yachting sector.&nbsp;Our international presence across two continents has played a pivotal role in our ability to undertake multiple yacht projects worldwide, spanning three continents. We've been involved in diverse projects, ranging from Australia, where we collaborated on the 35.25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/899" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Yachts (Company)">Silver Yachts</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8564" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Space Cat35.25m (115'8&quot;)Silver Yachts2022">SpaceCat</a> delivered in 2022, to Italy, working on the 38.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5302" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maori Yacht (Company)">Maori</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8464" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="K+38.2m (125'4&quot;)Maori Yacht2022">K+</a> delivered in 2022 and the 2022 62-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a>. Moreover, we have also worked with the Chinese shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3780" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pride Mega Yachts (Company)">Pride Mega Yachts</a>, where we contributed to the interior design of the 88.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5634" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Illusion Plus88.5m (290'4&quot;)Pride Mega Yachts2018">Illusion Plus</a>. Our most recent project was the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> 40.8-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mia 240.8m (133'10&quot;)Benetti SpA2023">Mia 2</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295428/image/large-bb47339f799749c0d150a49f1b6733cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295428">Our studio reflects our increasingly international perspective, with designers hailing from various countries, including China, Taiwan, Turkey, Ukraine, Russia, and, of course, Italy. This diversity in the team aligns with our commitment to effective communication, especially crucial when engaging with clients from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The studio's approach on embracing diverse cultures enhances our ability to connect with a global clientele.Furthermore, we've undergone a recent significant evolution by expanding our scope of work beyond interiors to include exteriors. We are currently involved in a project on both the interior and exterior design of a series of new yachts, covering a range from 15.24 to 36.8-metres in China.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295430/image/large-2cc40d651f5067f77f29922bbe868515.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295430">Could you elaborate on the collaborative process with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>&nbsp;regarding the interior design of the 62-metre &nbsp;yacht&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a>?The project of designing the interiors of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a> was intriguing due to the robust communication and deep understanding between our design team and the client. This dynamic relationship enabled us to capture the client’s vision and generate an interior with a welcoming familial atmosphere and a tropical inspiration. In order to achieve this we gathered a lot of elements inspired by the vibrant colours found in tropical forests, for example. The result was a harmonious blend of colours, carefully orchestrated to avoid a random or disjointed aesthetic.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295423/image/large-17a23d2e28c5834ed5fd6f12aa5f05b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295423">Moreover, given the yacht's numerous and distinct decks and rooms, we conducted thorough studies on how to manage colours seamlessly and a cohesive experience throughout the many floors in the yacht and create a unified, purposeful design. The collaboration with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> team and the owners was instrumental &nbsp;to this success. A core principle of our design philosophy is recognising the importance of a cooperative approach. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295425/image/large-4eb3bf9959fd0e53947940ae38c8080e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295425"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295427/image/large-478e588b0e66a933f99c84419b6d0a29.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295427">At the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/182" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2023">Monaco Yacht Show</a> you showcased the latest innovations in biotechnological materials for yacht interior design. Could you elaborate on the goals and objectives of the project "Aligned with Sustainability" ?Our initiative 'Aligned with Sustainability,' showcased at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/182" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2023">Monaco Yacht Show 2023</a>, &nbsp;emerged from a noticeable growing client interest in sustainable interior design materials for yachts. However, addressing this demand posed a challenge due to the lack of what I often refer to as 'tools', comprehensive resources and materials to support sustainable projects.In order to address this gap, we initiated research, collaborating with the university Sant'Anna in Pisa. Our aim was to identify companies producing sustainable materials, including biomaterials and bioplastics. The goal was to curate finishing products and materials that, when combined, could contribute to a design that is 100 percent or close to 100 percent sustainable. In the course of our research, we identified a company that develops biomaterials derived from sources like oranges and lemons.&nbsp;This endeavour aligns with a broader movement in the industry where dedicated research and innovation are focused on creating new materials for the future. It's a crucial consideration, as we stand at the threshold of the future, prompting us to think about the well-being of the next generation. Personally, as a parent of three children, I find it imperative to shift our approach from traditional methods to conducting research for a sustainable future.&nbsp;When you are designing a yacht, how do you ensure that the design remains stylish and relevant when the yacht is eventually launched?Addressing the question of maintaining style and relevance in yacht design is undoubtedly one of the most significant challenges a designer faces especially with interior yacht design. The goal is to cultivate a contemporary interior design that emanates a perpetual sense of freshness, resists the pull of passing trends and ensures an enduring appeal that stands the test of time.During my involvement in the design of the third hull of the Crystal series, the 42-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4629" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Soy Amor42.0m (137'10&quot;)Benetti SpA2014">Soy Amour</a>, achieving synchronisation with the owners proved to be a meticulous process. This often entailed multiple revisions to ensure perfect alignment and harmony between the design vision and their preferences. This summer, I had the opportunity to revisit <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4629" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Soy Amor42.0m (137'10&quot;)Benetti SpA2014">Soy Amour</a> after approximately 18 years, and it still radiated a sense of freshness and contemporaneity.&nbsp;The success of this enduring appeal can be attributed to my design approach in eschewing a fixed historical period, and embracing a heritage process that transcends time. Yacht refits are common after seven to eight years, but our aim is to extend the longevity of our designs.&nbsp;If you could purchase your own yacht or advise a client, is there one design feature you feel contributes most towards a luxurious experience onboard?Absolutely, when considering yacht design, our approach is to reimagine life onboard. The market traditionally adheres to standard layouts with a fixed number of cabins and public areas. However, our experience, particularly in designing villas in diverse locations such as China and Abu Dhabi, has revealed a shift in client preferences. Now, it's less about a specific number of guest bedrooms and more about creating versatile spaces that foster communal activities.&nbsp;We're exploring concepts like winter gardens and chill rooms where people can engage in various activities. Clients are seeking modern office spaces on yachts, deviating from the traditional setup. The contemporary onboard office is designed as an experiential space equipped with technology, multiple screens, meeting areas, and a setting conducive for conducting business. Our vision is to revolutionise the yacht experience, moving away from the conventional desire for a set number of cabins to a more dynamic and multifunctional onboard lifestyle.Finally, any exciting projects or developments you would like to unveil?Whilst I can't disclose specifics, I can share that in China we have entered into a collaborative venture with prominent car brands for an innovative yacht project. Additionally, we're also engaged in projects with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7149" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yihong Yachts (Company)">Yihong Yachts</a> as well as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7448" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eastar yacht (Company)">Eastar Yacht</a>. Closer to home in Italy, we're underway with a refit project for a 55-metre superyacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295421/image/large-7537bf0d751362c5540917a40199ebaf.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295421">

Meet the Italian designer informing China's superyacht sector

Superyacht Times had the opportunity to speak with Founder Alessandro Pulina who has undertaken projects worldwide, with a growing emphasis in China.

From a Picasso painting seized upon the 65-metre yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1613" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adix64.85m (212'9&quot;)Astilleros de Mallorca S.A.1984">Adix</a> to Basquiats hanging beside champagne bars, there is an art to collecting art for your superyacht, and it comes with a host of obligations and practicalities. Swerving pirates, the real threat to offshore masterpieces, can be as simple as a lack of crew training, a flying champagne cork, or sailing unchartered waters. As the value of these floating galleries is often equated to that of the yacht itself, the intricacies surrounding how to understand, transport, store, and preserve art onboard are broadening. With specialist tax lawyers to educational programmes for staff onboard, owners have many resources for logistical and practical solutions to ensure a secure floating gallery.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> Digital Editor Emma Becque spoke with experts about how best to safeguard precious gallery-worthy content onboard superyachts.Art appreciation and training<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artonsuperyachts (Company)">ArtOnSuperyachts</a>, founded by Oxford-educated art historian Pandora Mather-Lees, provides training and consultancy services for managing and preserving art collections on international yachts. After working at Hedley's Group, a fine art shipper, Pandora gained an intricate insight into the world of superyachts and the lack of training for those onboard handling the art in yachting. Thanks to her expertise, she strategised a company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artonsuperyachts (Company)">ArtOnSuperyachts</a> consisting of training &nbsp;courses featuring &nbsp;a catalogue of modules which offer practical training and troubleshooting for those handling and caring for the art while at sea. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295120/image/large-acf5843d7bfbbfd1f7722111edbcd123.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295120">Pandora notes how her “art history module is one of my most popular. It exemplifies how the crew are eager to learn more about various art collections they are surrounded with." The modules take an in-depth approach with graduates understanding the pieces and also able to clarify the difference between abstract and figurative. "This module is essential when you have some of the world's most valuable collections onboard. When explaining the collections, the crew can delve deeper with guests, making this training beneficial for the crew and the owners.”The 12-module training, available both online and in-person, is designed for those interested in enhancing their careers and knowledge in handling valuable objects at home, institutions, or on superyachts. This training is vital for interior crew, captains, yacht management, shipyards, designers, training companies, and marine project managers to avoid serious financial repercussions.Other training modules by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artonsuperyachts (Company)">ArtOnSuperyachts</a> include:Art Appreciation: Enhancing crew understanding of the value and significance of onboard art, fostering better relationships with owners and yacht management.Care &amp; Conservation: Addressing the challenges of handling fine and decorative arts on vessels, focusing on climate control, placement, and maintenance.Legal Export Risks: Highlighting the importance of understanding regulations governing cultural objects for captains, yacht management, and senior interior crew.The online training offers four levels, ranging from Art Appreciation to Art Due Diligence, while the classroom program covers a wide range of topics over one or two days, including art history, insurance, and understanding the art market. Additionally, private lectures focus on cultural heritage in maritime environments, catering to select groups and directly teaching yacht crews.Commission rather than collect&nbsp;An alternative to an art collection is to commission and curate your works of art, moulded explicitly to meet the function and form of the yacht itself. Founded in 2012 in Bristol, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier</a> has rapidly become a cornerstone in art consultancy, specialising in superyachts. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier</a> emerged to fill this niche with expertise and art knowledge, recognising a gap in expertise traditionally served by interior designers. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284223/image/large-66058aea2786ab0722eae73533a25a58.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284223">David Knowles, Founder and Creative Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier</a>, is confident of his catalogue of artists' talents and return on investment when highlighting a recent project. “For a recent <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/601" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Falcon Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Falcon Yachts</a> project, we collaborated closely with the client, taking charge of the entire art package. The interior design firm facilitated the connection between us and the client, allowing us to work directly with them. The project had a distinct theme revolving around the concept of “Lucine”, which translates to “Moon” in Armenian. As a result, all the artwork we curated and presented to the client had a meaningful connection to the moon and the celestial realm.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243145/image/large-77c71b609b346f6786c94e408e1d5a16.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243145"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier's</a> approach to sourcing artists is dynamic and inclusive, encompassing art fairs, galleries, online research, and studio visits. They are open to artists of all backgrounds, valuing quality over formal qualifications. Their selection criteria include originality, technical skill, innovative use of materials, and the potential for growth and evolution in an artist's work.Collaborating closely with designers, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier</a> engages in projects at various stages, from initial concepts to final touches, ensuring art significantly influences the design process. For yacht interiors, they prioritise unique and handcrafted artworks, avoiding mass-produced items. This preference aligns with the current trend towards sustainable art, using natural or recycled materials.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier's</a> notable yacht project was for the “67.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6200" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Neninka67.6m (221'9&quot;)Amels2019">Neninka</a> (ex. Aurora Borealis), where they “had the privilege of collaborating with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch Design</a> to curate the entire art package for Neninka. One of the standout features of this project was a remarkable 5-metre-long curved wall in the owner’s suite is adorned with pure gold leaf. This wall created a captivating focal point within the space. The inspiration for this feature wall stemmed from the client’s interest in Mount Fuji. We incorporated shades of gold leaf to bring depth and dimension to the design, capturing the essence of the owner’s passion. Considering the yacht’s purpose as a charter vessel and its availability for sale, the aesthetic was intentionally kept neutral, ensuring it would appeal to a wide range of potential buyers. Our goal was to harmonise the art with the interior design scheme, seamlessly blending it into the ambience of the yacht.This gold leaf wall stands as a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and the ability to create a bespoke art piece that aligns perfectly with the owner’s vision and the overall design concept. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier</a> is evolving rapidly, with Knowles noting recent trends when observing how owners opt for “sustainable choices; while not necessarily new in the art world, artists have been incorporating recycled materials and traditional craftsmanship for years. It is gratifying to resurface artworks from our extensive database, giving them the recognition they deserve in line with this growing trend.”&nbsp;Technological replicationsRather than house an art collection onboard, with tax and legal obligations, it can also be wise to seek out other alternatives. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7446" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arius Technology (Company)">Arius Technology</a>, a leader in art technology, has revolutionised the industry with its 3D digitisation-to-print solution, initially used for analysing the Mona Lisa masterpiece. Collaborating with prestigious institutions like Tate and the National Gallery of Canada, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7446" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arius Technology (Company)">Arius</a> has replicated masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, and many others. Its technology, comprising a 3D colour laser system and a robotic handling system, allows precise replications while preserving the original art.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295114/image/large-d6f9fe7a9f22bd81fd38159df2167f49.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295114">This innovation extends to multiple sectors - from museum-quality reproductions to aiding artists in creating digital and NFT versions of their work. Arius not only enhances art replication and preservation but also bridges traditional and digital art worlds, maintaining the quality, guarding the safety and swerving any challenges of housing museum-quality artworks at sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295113/image/large-479d477956989b38152b9241a4a06d3f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295113" 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;">The paperworkIn an insightful discussion with Carla Bellieni, a Certified Chartered Accountant and expert in Maritime Tax and Customs Law, the complexities of housing artworks onboard yachts are revealed. Bellieni notes how “In my experience, the most commonly underestimated aspects at the time of purchasing artworks, which may lead to unintentional loss of value, avoidable costs, or damage, include”:&nbsp;<ul><li>The tax aspects are linked to legal classification, where digital artworks or modern pieces may not be classified as art, sometimes more aptly classified as furnishings.</li><li>In customs, incorrect classification can result in tariffs or border rejections. The importance of declaring the origin and value of the artwork for tax and customs is incredibly challenging with international artists and works without a clear market price.&nbsp;</li><li>The connection between the artwork and the geographical mobility of the yacht can complicate tax events due to territorial taxation scopes and customs issues, including restrictions on paintings of national interest.</li><li>The necessity of legal assistance in obtaining proper insurance coverage.</li><li>Anti-Money Laundering (AML) considerations in the transfer of artworks.</li><li>The risk of an inadequately trained crew managing and maintaining artworks, particularly with innovative art mediums, could lead to a total loss of value not covered by insurance.</li></ul>To avoid mishaps in housing artworks on yachts, Bellieni suggests, “It's crucial to approach purchases and planning beyond financial and aesthetic considerations, incorporating legal, tax, insurance, and management aspects.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212321/image/large-170d0b1e08e46ab129f8e4df2c229f65.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212321">Equally, owners “should assemble a specialised team of experts tailored to their specific needs, focusing on the authenticity and legalities of the artwork's purchase and movement. This team must be chosen based on their education, skills, and experience, ensuring that all potential risks and complexities are addressed. This includes understanding the intricacies of tax laws and the dynamic nature of maritime transactions.” For Bellieni, “Pandora of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artonsuperyachts (Company)">ArtOnSuperyachts</a>&nbsp; plays a crucial role in this strategy, aiding in identifying and classifying artworks and providing essential support to the legal team in navigating uncertainties regarding the artworks' classification, origin, and value.”&nbsp;In line with this notion, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artonsuperyachts (Company)">ArtOnSuperyachts</a> offers comprehensive strategies incorporating legal, fiscal, customs, and technical aspects to preserve artwork value and ensure legal compliance. Their courses include Pandora's module on art insurance, and another module focusing on media and materials, addressing optimal art placement onboard to maintain appropriate temperature, light, and heating conditions.

How to collect art onboard superyachts

SuperYacht Times Digital Editor Emma Becque spoke with experts about how best to safeguard precious gallery-worthy content onboard superyachts.

Navigating the choppy waters for collecting art onboard superyachts

When new owners acquired <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a> early in 2022, they channelled their vision into a technical refit at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a> in Livorno. The best way to bring the iconic yacht up to date and protect her legacy well into the future was to assemble as many of the contractors involved in the original project as possible.When <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> launched the mighty <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a> in 2006, she represented not only the culmination of extraordinary ingenuity and vision on the part of her pioneering owner, the late Tom Perkins, but also a long list of subcontractors and suppliers. Her ground-breaking Dynarig had been pulled from design theory and engineered into existence on what would quickly become one of the most-photographed yachts in the world. But the development of her rig and sail plan introduced other technical challenges, from the unstayed rotating masts to the unique furlers and associated monitoring systems. Her place in the limelight is well deserved, but with that comes a certain pressure to maintain her iconic status.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272536/image/large-ae1f5fd33237b177737c568c13aa0ad2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272536">Fast forward to 7th April 2022, when new owners took possession of the 88-metre yacht in the eastern Mediterranean. Neither they nor their captain, Pierfrancesco Cafaro, were strangers to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a>, having owned and sailed the 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/543" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="La Luna52.0m (170'7&quot;)Perini Navi1997">La Luna</a> around the world. But <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a> is a very different animal. It took 12 years for someone to build a second Dynarig yacht, and by the time <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a> was taking shape many of the technologies had evolved. This presented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a>’s new owners with a dilemma.“The previous owner had essentially left much of the yacht as she was in 2006,” says Captain Cafaro. “In September 2022 we decided to come to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a> yard in Livorno, which had a suitable dry dock available, and we set out a huge plan to refit her – although we reduced that a little in order to save the summer 2023 season. Why <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a>? Because it looks easy but it’s very specialist work and a mistake can stop the boat. I wanted it done by a big shipyard like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Azimut-Benetti</a> who can give us a warranty.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272540/image/large-f50ae6bd879c381d01b3db2bff696427.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272540">Remade in ItalyThe nature of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a> means that most of her core equipment and control systems are completely custom, and refitting her in Italy rather than in her homeports of Malta or Palma meant that all the expertise that went into the original build was on the doorstep. Most of the contractors had heavy work schedules, but by staying local the team maximised the chances for the works to be completed in time for the 2023 Med season. The process started with the decision to strip the hull back to bare metal.&nbsp;“It wasn’t anything that the previous owners had done wrong, it’s just that the paint was 15 years old and the yacht has done a lot of sailing,” says Cafaro. “Also at close to 90 metres, there is some movement in the hull and that had clearly taken its toll on the filler.” It was also a chance to change the colour of the hull; gone is the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Falcon</a>’s original black paint scheme and in its place is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini</a> blue.On deck, there have been alterations and additions to the guest areas. The addition of a fixed bimini, for example, now offers weather protection and shade for the aft deck dining table. Made by Massimo Forti of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4308" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="FM Architettura (Company)">F.M.</a> Srl and stretching from the superstructure to the mizzen mast, it creates an area that when the saloon doors are fully open offers 50 metres of protected indoor/outdoor living (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4308" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="FM Architettura (Company)">F.M.</a> was also responsible for the class-certified welding and hotworks for the new exhaust system where it meets the hull).There have been some changes inside too, with much of the dark gloss and stainless steel décor replaced with warmer hues and softer touches, all under the watchful eye of Roman studio Emanuela Esposito. The artwork has been changed to reflect a Japanese influence, and the guest areas, cabins, VIP and master have all been overhauled. The guest bathrooms have been gutted and refitted with pale marble and less masculine palettes, and the deckheads have been replaced with new leather.&nbsp;The crew quarters have also received a makeover with a new wooden floor, new Miele appliances for the laundry, and new lower crew and upper guest pantries, as well as a completely new main galley installed by commercial specialists CS Refrigeration. All the tanks have been de-rusted and painted, the bilges painted and the sensors replaced.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/294408/image/large-47a6848dcc558e357a84ce2b72205db9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/294408">Technical treatmentThe real focus and biggest challenge of the refit, however, has been a multi-million-euro technical overhaul. Due to the extent of the works and the complexities of the systems needed to control, drive and monitor the Dynarig which presented the biggest challenges for the team, the choice of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a> and the decision to use the contractors involved in the original build proved a wise decision.Ascheo was brought back in to service all the motors and hydraulics that control the rotation of the masts (see sidebar). The owner’s team considered switching to electric drives as on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a>, but electric motors were too big for the existing space so they had no choice but to work with the original system. Fabbri Fiore was also brought back to overhaul and update the unique Dynarig furlers, winches and deck hardware, while Cacini &amp; C – another of the original build contractors – returned to update the sail control system and the yacht’s monitoring system (see sidebar).“Since the very beginning, the Maltese Falcon project has been an amazing challenge for all suppliers that has exerted a magic charm on all the companies participating in her construction,” says Angelo Cacini. “The opportunity to work again on this vessel rekindled these feelings, and the captain – working side by side, day by day with the workers onboard – transferred the new owners’ intention to make the Maltese Falcon greater than ever.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272549/image/large-04b8f076cb63199cc0d053576f952c95.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272549">Tiers before bedtimeFor the mechanical upgrades the team turned to 2gtech, yet another of the original build team, to replace the three generators with modern, more efficient and more appropriately sized Lindenberg-Anlagen 270kW gensets based on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines, and to overhaul the original <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1448" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Deutz AG (Company)">Deutz</a>-MWM main engines. A urea tank and SCR exhaust treatment system has been added alongside a new exhaust system and silencers. Meanwhile Manrico Francesconi Srl in Viareggio , who was also involved in the original project, replaced all the fan coils in the air-con system and made some improvements to the compressors.&nbsp;Similarly, all the bridge PLCs and navigation electronics have been updated or replaced by Caim and the entire yacht rewired to replace the old halogen lights with warm-Kelvin LEDs – a huge upgrade that will have a positive impact on power draw and heat generation.&nbsp;After flirting with Kymeta flat panels for satcomms a few years ago, these have been removed and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a> has gone full Starlink, even removing the traditional TV antennas. The yacht also has a new fire-suppression system.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272554/image/large-757c00f1d4ff1d027fc06b35f28d2feb.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272554">Digging deepAs with most refits, the team frequently came across more than they bargained for when digging deep into systems: “Sometimes we decided to do some works and we opened things up and found the situation was critical because it hadn’t been looked at for many years,” Cafaro says. “For example, when we were overhauling the mechanical and shaft elements, we realised the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rolls-Royce Marine (Company)">Rolls-Royce</a> systems that usually have to be serviced every five years hadn’t been done for 10 years. It not only added to the budget, but facing these kinds of problems – which we found in more than one department – has taken up a lot of time and energy.”The result is a refreshed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a> that will stay relevant into the future as environmental responsibility takes centre stage. “We could have spent half of what we did, but sustainability was a very important consideration for the owners – the boat had to be updated for the next 10 years,” says Cafaro. “Can you imagine using the gensets from the original build in 2032? You would be arrested as soon as you turned them on! And even if you weren’t, you would be out of the charter market because people are increasingly mindful of what’s going on. That goes for the crew too. So the focus was on safe sailing first, then doing it without damaging the environment.”What is clear from the love and attention (and money) that has been invested in the refit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a>, is that the sailing yacht is still able to capture the imagination and stir the emotions 15 years after her launch. Just as important, the experience and expertise that went into building her is as valuable today as it was then.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/294421/image/large-1af108451a4fcbb2af83c14452f96cf8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/294421">Automation &amp; monitoringCacini &amp; C was involved in the original <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a> project for implementing the sailing control and monitoring system. The company was responsible for designing the software, building the hardware, installed and commissioning it on-site in Tuzla, Turkey. Cacini’s main task was to design, build and install a new ship automation and monitoring system. The project comprises eight new automation panels, the integration of three new diesel generators, and the replacement of all sensors throughout the yacht.“One of the hardest challenges was to install the new wiring,” says Angelo Cacini, the company’s chairman.“This required laying more than 15 kilometres of cables, basically across the whole boat.” &nbsp;A second team worked to refit and, on occasion, to redesign some of the yacht’s core services ranging from the compressed air system to 24-volt distribution, the urea system and the rebuilding of lighting in several technical zones including the engine room. &nbsp;“This refit is a big upgrade for the whole boat,” says Cacini. “A lot of the elements have been replaced with up-to-date systems in an overall modernisation of the yacht with significant improvements in terms of increased features and reliability.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272550/image/large-4ea24c385d484d1a69789c4b1f4d07e9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272550">Pool cool Part of the original plan for the winter 2022-23 refit was the addition of a swimming pool on the bridge deck aft in the area that serves as a terrace for the VIP cabin. The 10-square-metre pool with a capacity of 10,000 litres, presented a challenge for the design and engineering teams, as well as for the schedule of the refit works as in order to be signed off, it would have to to be emptied within three minutes. This would normally mean installing a large pump in the engine room, which is fine on a new-build, but problematic for a refit. The solution that was agreed upon was that the pool could drain to the main deck below.“Procedure means all the documents and designs have to be approved by ABS, but they were taking too much time and without that authorisation you can’t start building,” says Cafaro. “They told us they should be able to give authorisation by January 2023, but we didn’t trust that timeline so we decided to postpone those works.”The paperwork has now been completed, and the plan is for Lusben to begin construction of the pool module ready for installation in a brief follow-up refit period between the end of September and early November 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;“They are all contractors that I know well, but they are all so full of work that it can be hard for them to give a firm completion date,” says Cafaro. “If they tell us the pool needs more time, we won’t do it this Autumn because we have to be in the Caribbean at the end of the year. But if they can do it, then we can start the Caribbean season with another big new feature.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272544/image/large-132ad960e42b9a75d0ba30f4d2c2f72e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272544">Keeping the rig runningThe overhauling of the Dynarig was left to Ascheo, who developed and installed the original system. The team was tasked with servicing the rescue crane and helm wing stations, and the hydraulic mast rotation units (indeed, Ascheo’s team now includes the original designer of the MRU system). Aside from replacing worn-out components, the team was also able to update the MRU hydraulic supply system, leading to a 50 per cent reduction in noise.It wasn’t all plain sailing, however: “We faced the challenge of insufficient information about previous troubles and maintenance coupled with limited time and space on board, also due to other refit work that was happening on the yacht,” says Ascheo president Guglielmo Lorenzoni. “All three systems had never been built before, and coming back on board meant we could observe and evaluate their condition after 18 years of operation. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a> is certainly one of the most prestigious constructions in yachting and the refit keeps her abreast of the times, as well as improving the liveability on board with the noise reduction.”Lorenzoni’s advice for such a complex technical refit is simple: “Proactively coordinate so all agencies are informed and ready to service the boat before it docks,” he asserts. “Remember that new technologies could offer opportunities for energy saving. Using the original suppliers could bring some advantages, and keep in mind the availability of spare parts, obsolescence, and long delivery times.”This article was originally published in Issue 3 of How To Build It, you can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine/how-to-build-it-issue-3" target="_blank">download the magazine for free here</a>.

Exploring the refit of the 88m superyacht Maltese Falcon

Charlotte Thomas takes a look at the refit of the iconic sailing yacht Maltese Falcon. 

Flight of the Falcon: exploring the refit of the 88m superyacht Maltese Falcon

For Thanksgiving, discover a coveted selection of the world’s most expensive American-built superyachts currently on the market as of Mid-November.&nbsp;73-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laurel73.2m (240'2&quot;)Delta Marine2006">Laurel</a> is currently on the market with an asking price of $69,500,000The 73-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laurel73.2m (240'2&quot;)Delta Marine2006">Laurel</a> was launched in 2006 by US shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta Marine</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laurel73.2m (240'2&quot;)Delta Marine2006">Laurel</a> is one of the largest yachts ever to be built in North America. She features both exterior and interior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/41" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Donald Starkey Designs (Company)">Donald Starkey</a>. The 1,595 GT superyacht can accommodate up to 12 guests taken care of by a crew of 24. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269338/image/large-29f4ff7b6a86e8071080057bbc5cc495.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269338">Onboard, the superyacht exhibits a timeless interior design with highlights including the expansive saloon featuring a game table and unique oval reading nook overlooking the oceanic landscape. A classical study and massage room are just a few of the many amenities on offer. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269355/image/large-ffe71c672427f8f8daf65550c312f2eb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269355"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/269352/image/large-6198314ae438fc062ea03b131d5fd830.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/269352">Performance-wise she is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines of 2,500 horsepower each, allowing her to reach a top speed of 18.2 knots and cruise comfortably at 14.5 knots.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laurel73.2m (240'2&quot;)Delta Marine2006">Laurel</a> is currently on the market with a last known asking price of $69,500,000 with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>.50-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2033" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jackpot50.0m (164'1&quot;)Christensen Shipyards, LLC.2020">Jackpot</a> is on the market for $39,500,000<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/42791/image/large-ed84b636f4c095c9eb013acfde6da852.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/42791"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2033" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jackpot50.0m (164'1&quot;)Christensen Shipyards, LLC.2020">Jackpot</a> is a 50-metre superyacht built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/149" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christensen Shipyards, LLC. (Company)">Christensen Shipyard</a>. Delivered in 2020, the luxury yacht sleeps up to 16 guests across six staterooms and has accommodations for 11 crew. Her interior and exterior design were also crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/149" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christensen Shipyards, LLC. (Company)">Christensen Shipyard</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/83892/image/large-0a264681f72a10211b3567971187b9b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/83892">The American-built yacht can reach top speeds of 15.5 knots with a cruising speed is 12.5 knots 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.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2033" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jackpot50.0m (164'1&quot;)Christensen Shipyards, LLC.2020">Jackpot</a> is currently on the market with a last known asking price of $39,500,000 with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merle Wood & Associates, Inc. (Company)">Merle Wood &amp; Associates</a>.&nbsp;60-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/360" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mia Elise II60.15m (197'4&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2012">Mia Elise II</a> is on the market with an asking price of $34,900,000<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/216384/image/large-c931a219d3e84f6ef60437ee95773938.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/216384">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/106" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Trinity Yachts, LLC (Company)">Trinity</a>-built superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/360" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mia Elise II60.15m (197'4&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2012">Mia Elise II</a>&nbsp; was launched in 2012 and has been meticulously maintained. She’s offered in turnkey condition, thanks to a substantial 2022 refit.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/360" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mia Elise II60.15m (197'4&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2012">Mia Elise II</a> features exterior design and naval architecture by her builder, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/106" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Trinity Yachts, LLC (Company)">Trinity Yachts</a>, with interior design penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Patrick Knowles Designs (Company)">Patrick Knowles Designs</a>. She can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests across a six-stateroom configuration, as well as 10 cabins for a crew of 19.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207602/image/large-11ab3e8e209a7bfbe745d16138324d8c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207602"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207604/image/large-8a038a69ef1a2bcfa4b18eaba8390cc6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207604">Highlights onboard include an oval wine cellar cast in mahogany and Pacific Northwest madrone panelling with cherry burl inlays, a design accent exemplified throughout. Other amenities include a spa and gym, a cinema, a beach club, a private owner’s deck, and an arsenal of water toys. The Trinity Yacht also has an elevator that serves all three of her decks.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/279022/image/large-95c9bc57c0a53e1614cffad351953070.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/279022"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/360" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mia Elise II60.15m (197'4&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2012">Mia Elise II</a> is equipped with 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 18 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/360" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mia Elise II60.15m (197'4&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2012">Mia Elise II</a> is currently on the market with a last known asking price of &nbsp;34,900,000 with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merle Wood & Associates, Inc. (Company)">Merle Wood &amp; Associates</a>. .50-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Chasseur48.8m (160'1&quot;)Christensen Shipyards, LLC.2016">Chasseur</a> is on the market with an asking price of $32,750,000<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/288502/image/large-67963e4ddfe17d225ebd2c591502390e.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/288502">The 48.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/149" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christensen Shipyards, LLC. (Company)">Christensen</a>-built superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Chasseur48.8m (160'1&quot;)Christensen Shipyards, LLC.2016">Chasseur</a> showcases exterior design and naval architecture crafted by her builder. VARO crafted her original interior design, but in 2022, she underwent an extensive refit, with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Patrick Knowles Designs (Company)">Patrick Knowles</a> penning the designs. The superyacht can accommodate up to 13 guests across six staterooms, with space for a crew of up to 10 members.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/288486/image/large-3026ebaf327e396af750c2a0035b8146.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/288486"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/288499/image/large-e0692dec7d219b257d6959ed4578d18e.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/288499">Highlights onboard include a lift reaching each guest suite, an expansive gym, a touch-and-go helipad, and a full-service aft deck bar. Regarding performance, the superyacht can reach top speeds of up to 15 knots, while her cruising speed is 12 knots.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Chasseur48.8m (160'1&quot;)Christensen Shipyards, LLC.2016">Chasseur</a> is on the market with an asking price of $32,750,000 with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop and Johnson</a>.52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5607" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanam52.4m (171'11&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts2016">Sanam</a> is currently on the market with an asking price of €29,900,000<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/179388/image/large-62d4ad5829e4c963bacee3da2bab1deb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/179388"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5607" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanam52.4m (171'11&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts2016">Sanam</a>&nbsp; was built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/121" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palmer Johnson Yachts (Company)">Palmer Johnson</a> in 2016. She features an exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a>, while her interior was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Todhunter Earle (Company)">Todhunter Earle</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/121" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palmer Johnson Yachts (Company)">Palmer Johnson Yachts</a>. Up to 14 guests are accommodated onboard, with accommodation for 10 crew members. Impeccably maintained, one owner has used the superyacht privately as a single-season yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/241664/image/large-11041d5af3f1c3a032ff91dfe082dde8.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/241664"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/275756/image/large-9b882d4cd488ababd9d3fc5f1eda4945.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/275756">Highlights include a large saltwater swimming pool on the foredeck and a sun deck Jacuzzi. Bright, contemporary, and minimalist interior styling throughout the yacht, with fold-out balconies on the port and starboard sides of the main deck for open-air living<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/275758/image/large-7f59b9fed65ccd60512f766fa4563a4e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/275758">She is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, which give her a cruising speed of 17 knots and a top speed of 30 knots.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5607" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanam52.4m (171'11&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts2016">Sanam</a> is currently for sale at an asking price of €29,900,000 with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a>.

Most expensive American superyachts on the market

For Thanksgiving, discover a coveted selection of the most expensive American superyachts.

This October, the 82-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cali82.0m (269'0&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Cali</a> was launched, unveiling the new superyacht to the industry for the very first time. A highly secretive project, the superyacht, Hull 13775 is the first superyacht designed by the yard’s Lead Exterior Designer Jim Robert Sluijter. British studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a> has designed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cali82.0m (269'0&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Cali</a>’s interiors, and in another milestone, she is the first collaboration between <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> and the studio since the launch of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Al Said155.0m (508'6&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2008">Al Said</a> in 2008.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/292976/image/large-c300998f43ab6d20e25045b0653b12a0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/292976">Despite <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cali82.0m (269'0&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Cali</a> being his first design project to hit the water since joining <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>, Jim was attending the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/183" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show - 2023">Fort Lauderdale Boat Show</a> during her splash. Fortunately, that gave SuperYacht Times the opportunity to sit down with him to find out more about the project, as well as talk about his own path, from working alongside of the industry's top studios, to becoming <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>’s Lead Designer. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291965/image/large-a594dabd47cba9af9a44df3b54d7e71f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291965">How did your career at&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>&nbsp;begin – what were you doing beforehand?Well, let's start at the beginning. As a young boy I’d had the amazing opportunity to tour the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> shipyard with Jan Van Lent and having never seen a superyacht before, I was absolutely amazed by the visit. When it came to deciding on my first internship during my Industrial Design course at TU Delft, it felt natural for me to reach back out to the yard that so inspired me as a child and thankfully they took me on.My responsibilities during that time were fairly basic, but it gave me an incredible insight into the superyacht construction industry and showed me how superyacht builders operated from the inside. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/30" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Voogt Naval Architects (Company)">De Voogt</a> had a wall in one of the buildings with all of the in-build projects so when it came to choosing a company to guide my final year project, I stood back, reviewed all of the projects and decided that the Andrew Winch design yacht was the most exciting for me. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/7330/image/large-34cf424c69fef88fba28c515709a84a3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7330">I reached out to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch</a> and asked if I could do my final year project with them, an offer to which they said no. However, they did offer me a six month internship. So I moved to London and joined the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch</a> team, and following my internship they assisted me with the finalisation of my degree before I joined the studio’s exterior design team. I was at Winch for six years, during which time we signed three contracts with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>; <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5624" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aurora74.0m (242'9&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Aurora</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gigia85.0m (278'10&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Areti</a> (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gigia85.0m (278'10&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Gigia</a>) and Tis&nbsp;(now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5661" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alaiya111.5m (365'10&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Alaiya</a>), so I became familiar with the Rendsburg facility and many of the team. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/45215/image/large-51b9018786f8673d3c7d489cee428dc1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/45215">When <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5661" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alaiya111.5m (365'10&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Tis</a> was delivered, I decided it was time to do something different, so came back to the Netherlands and joined the team at <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> inHaarlem. During that time, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/37" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture (Company)">Azure</a> was working on the naval architecture of Moon Sand, the 55-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>, and the studio was closely aligned with the yard for any 50-60-metre proposals. Because I had worked with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch</a>, many of these proposals fell to me and so my relationship with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> and particularly Michael Breman, became very strong.&nbsp;After I left <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/37" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture (Company)">Azure</a>, I received a call from Michael asking me to meet him and Peter Lürssen at Schiphol for a meeting, and that turned out to be the job interview for the role I have today.&nbsp;That must have felt like the golden ticket! What was the proposed role?The yard had been looking for an in-house designer to focus on the smaller yacht sector (50-70-metre), to quickly create proposals that could assist the sales team and build on the existing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> portfolio. While the yard is committed to its relationship with external studios, an in-house designer could create a variety of potential designs, to be shown during client meetings at very short notice. Having worked with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> in both my previous roles, I had come to know the yard and its processes very well and Peter and Michael thought I would make a great fit for the role.&nbsp;I joined 4.5 years ago, initially in Rendsburg and then later from home in Amsterdam. During my first year I was creating proposals in that 50-70-metre range, but as the role progressed, it became clear that there was more interest from clients in the slightly larger range of 70-90-metres. The yard has an extraordinary level of expertise and the team is accustomed to working on very large projects. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/292972/image/large-4d0445e96017bc8decc73609440e5db2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/292972">Tell us about&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cali82.0m (269'0&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Cali</a>, how did the project begin and is it not unusual for an owner to go with a relatively unknown designer?Absolutely and I think that is part of the reason that it is only now that she is launched that we have announced her as an in-house design. In the case of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cali82.0m (269'0&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Cali</a>, she actually began as a 73-metre proposal sketch and it so happened that the owner in question loved the original exterior design and style, with the only major change being the length. I think for this owner, the fact that I was an in-house designer was less important than the fact that he loved her lines and that Lürssen’s reputation for excellence guaranteed a wonderful end result.&nbsp;The client had a very clear vision of what he wanted. He wanted his next yacht to feature some of the elements he felt his current yacht was missing, namely a beach club and an even larger sundeck with wind protection. He wanted four staterooms on the lower deck, as well as two VIPs on the main deck alongside the owner's stateroom. Unlike many yachts of her size today, the owner opted not to have an owner’s deck, instead having an enlarged sundeck and a sleeker exterior design. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/292977/image/large-87daf37dbe9b3a11abeefcdaf5a977a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/292977">When it comes to your proposals, are you given creative licence, or do you draw inspiration from the&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>&nbsp;fleet?One of the best things about working as a designer at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> is the unequalled access to the yards portfolio of yachts, which enables me to draw inspiration from what has come before and also to match my designs to the capabilities of the yard. For example, when it comes to design intricacies, such as the pool on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cali82.0m (269'0&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Cali</a>, I was able to call the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> specialist and have a discussion there and then about potential design features or limitations. I am however given freedom to interpret the owner's wishes and I think that is something really unique to both the role and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291962/image/large-1a60c0a4f219b247435b74a38e4d234f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291962">How has the process been for you, launching your first own-design&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>?It has been a fantastic experience. Working alongside the brilliant team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a> on the interiors and Kees de Keizer who has represented the owner throughout the process, has been great. In my experience, it has been one of the most seamless build projects, despite the interruption of Covid in the middle. &nbsp;We had a very tight schedule for the build, and often when it comes to the big decision phases, projects sometimes become delayed because owners change their focus during the project and change priorities. This was not the case for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cali82.0m (269'0&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Cali</a>, her owner was so clear on his ambition with the boat, he was incredibly responsive and we had a fantastic collaboration between <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>, RWD and the owner’s team.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291963/image/large-2070c3703f5c4d0047a6af6e4c2219da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291963">Can you share a few of your favourite features of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cali82.0m (269'0&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Cali</a>?There are many things that I love about this project, but in particular the shapes of the exterior. Not having an owner’s deck allowed us to play with the lines and create a very sleek exterior and then that massive sundeck that could only have happened without an upper deck, is really special. The sundeck has 2.5 metres ceiling height and it is completely open aside from windbreak panels.&nbsp;She has a huge swim platform to accommodate the tenders, a floating dock for the Jet Skis and all other water sports activities. In combination with the pool on the main deck aft this will be the main area for day time &nbsp;activities onboard. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/292975/image/large-9c05ff8d14ed240e801a4dec0c627d68.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/292975">Finally, your first yacht is out there now, can we expect to see more&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>-designed yachts hitting the water?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> is famed for its incredible collaborations with the best designers in the superyacht industry, and this will never change. The work we have done over the past 4.5 years, I believe, has been very successful, but it will only be one string in the shipyard’s bow, though we currently have a few irons in the fire for a next project. I think it is a great addition to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> offering to have an in-house designer that can work alongside the sales team and show owners what is possible on the smaller scale of things.&nbsp;Peter and Michael have been extraordinary mentors, I truly see them as the most respected professionals in the industry and it is amazing to work alongside them. I look forward to whatever it is we do next! &nbsp;

Interview with yacht designer Jim Sluijter

Last month Lürssen launched its first yacht from a smaller superyacht segment, the 82m Cali. We interviewed her designer.

In conversation: Lürssen's in-house designer Jim Sluijter on 82m superyacht Cali

Tilse yacht glazing manufacturer

Tilse in Germany, a pioneer of glazing solutions on superyachts, has influenced the rules and standards to keep pace with developments in design. 

Clear as crystal: defining yacht glass standards with Tilse

The 27.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10804" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Notynog27.6m (90'7&quot;)Sanlorenzo2022">Notynog</a> is on the market with Mike Orchard of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331331/image/large-b3ffce22b709a7ae1c4a3b2f4325b116.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331331">Delivered in 2022 as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> SL90 Aysmmetric series, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/notynog/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Notynog for sale</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuccon International Project (Company)">Zuccon International Project</a>, and interiors styled by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4324" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marty Lowe (Company)">Marty Lowe</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331326/image/large-f11e1f4d88ba2e1e189e02a1d17fe555.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331326"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331306/image/large-545bc6547fdfe50bcf37c34c32e2ba01.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331306">At a volume of 95 GT, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> is capable of sleeping as many as eight guests across a four stateroom layout. Accommodation is also available to support a crew of up to four members onboard. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331313/image/large-4e0c9535b9a57a6f66e53c195d81b64a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331313"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331315/image/large-0bf8daa5d9a8e37b4af0b436e8c5dbdd.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331315"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331312/image/large-78b6b200f2efb4773b1d4e9ddcfd0ec2.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331312">The main-deck master suite is equipped with a desk, walk-in wardrobe, ensuite bathroom, electric skylight, and a door to the external passageway. Remaining guests are hosted on the lower deck staterooms, which include one VIP suite and two double staterooms, all of which boast ensuite bathrooms.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331311/image/large-31d58d2728d3aabd7e608eb5275cbd7e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331311"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331308/image/large-af7a0a5bf1228c98230e78eee4a78bc2.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331308"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331309/image/large-af4f0d4079aa1952c77353d054956d03.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331309">Sliding glass doors merge <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10804" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Notynog27.6m (90'7&quot;)Sanlorenzo2022">Notynog</a>’s oversized saloon with the exterior deck spaces, where guests are invited to dine alfresco at bench seating and tables as well as a seating arrangement protected by her awning. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331304/image/large-0eff11b2161f74380dcb4ca15f5e4168.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331304"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331305/image/large-43f3518d72819563b6554e69ad5af014.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331305">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a>'s flybridge contains further opportunities for outdoor opportunity, thanks to a sheltered bar and alfresco dining area seating up to eight guests, fitted with an electric opening roof. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331327/image/large-d66f9f5846365197f3fb91bbd20786e7.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331327"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331325/image/large-5b961100c151d881e1d93450f0e76c5e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331325"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331323/image/large-abb8d64ecba3279e8540aeed0e929ef9.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331323">Performance-wise, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/sanlorenzo/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Sanorenzo yacht 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 that can reach a cruising speed of 25 knots and a top speed of 29 knots. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331329/image/large-a6d56a46c898b12c0f0e252690029da4.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331329"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331333/image/large-b4a66de5d7f2de725435c88d53ac8953.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331333">

28m Sanlorenzo yacht Notynog for sale 

The 27.6-metre Sanlorenzo motor yacht Notynog is on the market with Mike Orchard of Edmiston. 

28m Sanlorenzo motor yacht Notynog on the market 

The 35-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/599" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Couach Yachts (Company)">Couach</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1085" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eclipse35.0m (114'10&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Eclipse</a> is on the market with Bob Friscia and Thomas Merlier of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331278/image/large-d5c37a904dfaa17add23a8e24fb41a5c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331278">Delivered in 2005 as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/599" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Couach Yachts (Company)">Couach Yachts</a> 3500 Fly series, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/eclipse-35m/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Eclipse for sale</a> features exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1141" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cano Lanza Yacht Design (Company)">Cano Lanza Yacht</a>, while her interiors were imagined in-house by her French shipyard. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331277/image/large-981ed91d53941bb74623c6d47f826b9d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331277"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331281/image/large-435c42c526383f02dee958a8f3e0967a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331281">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> is capable of sleeping as many as 10 guests across five staterooms located below deck, each equipped with ensuite heads and showers. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1085" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eclipse35.0m (114'10&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Eclipse</a>’s extravagant owner’s suite is situated the furthest forward, while two amidship staterooms are mirrored and two furthest aft are mirrored.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331288/image/large-19d1f3b166d3369572606ba671210019.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331288"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331283/image/large-fa672679d34ae85cdf116e01092eea62.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331283"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331285/image/large-df3fa81a347cddded6939f03903db746.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331285">One of the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a>’s most noteworthy selling points is her expansive flybridge with a roomy dining area and a Jacuzzi for guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding maritime environment. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331294/image/large-0e9a9abccf859e5e6766eac3d1609e24.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331294"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331293/image/large-6cad149d12504da0fe79a4736b6595fd.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331293"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331291/image/large-2958ee8c24eb95937212f8e065d87e64.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331291">Moving inside, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1085" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eclipse35.0m (114'10&quot;)Couach Yachts2006">Eclipse</a>’s convivial saloon exhibits a warm-toned colour palette of beige and cream coupled with dark wood furnishings, simultaneously exuding an authentic antiquity and a modern elegance.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331289/image/large-bab34983b9fdb20a807426ff8a8e58c2.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331289"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331280/image/large-60788a75461b4326c2b9236733bd5ef8.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331280">Regarding her performance, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/couach/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Couach yacht for sale</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines that propel her to a cruising speed of 20 knots and a top speed of 30 knots. She also boasts a range of 1,000 nautical miles.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331296/image/large-8a55325a17d743fff45d4f500d29e271.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331296"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331297/image/large-a4a69b8739d992e0c3d625029e6de15d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331297">

35m Couach yacht Eclipse for sale 

The 35-metre Couach motor yacht Eclipse is on the market with Bob Friscia and Thomas Merlier of Ocean Independence. 


35m Couach motor yacht Eclipse on the market 

Following a lay day on Wednesday, the third day of racing at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez - 2024">Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez</a> saw significant changes as the 41 maxi yachts returned to the Bay of Pampelonne. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331360/image/large-301700b314966c3485bc1b9ca899875c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331360">Organised by the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez, the regatta is also the final event of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7139" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="International Maxi Association (IMA) (Company)">International Maxi Association</a>’s 2024 Mediterranean Maxi Inshore Challenge. Thursday’s racing featured a shift in courses, with the faster boats in Maxi A and B taking on a 45-kilometre coastal race, while the slower Maxi C and D classes competed in two windward-leeward races.The day started with a northerly wind, the opposite of earlier conditions, creating a tricky transition zone. The wind dropped before filling in from the south, adding complexity to the already challenging courses.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/61619" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Day 2: Perfect racing conditions for the Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez (2024-10-02 13:45:00 +0200)">Day 2: Perfect racing conditions for the Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331361/image/large-5dfd8eb20189e98de9b4f769be91fed2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331361">Maxi A resultsIn the Maxi A class, Peter Harrison’s 22-metre Jolt, which had dominated the previous races, suffered an unexpected setback. While exiting the Bay of Pampelonne, Jolt touched bottom, causing bumps and bruises among her crew. Although the team managed to complete the race, Jolt finished an uncharacteristic sixth. Despite this, she still leads the overall standings, with racing set to resume today (Friday)With Jolt out of contention for the day, Remon Vos’ <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3324" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Jack IV30.46m (99'11&quot;)McConaghy Boats2005">Black Jack</a> 100 took full advantage, winning both on the water and under IRC corrected time. The lightweight 30.46-metre yacht, with her towering 40-metre mast, handled the tricky transitions between the shifting winds exceptionally well. “It was headland racing – good fun,” commented Black Jack tactician Mark Bradford. “We managed the transitions well, and that made the difference.”Behind Black Jack, Sir Peter Ogden’s 23.5-metre Jethou continued her consistent performance, finishing second for the fifth consecutive time. Giovanni Lombardi Stronati’s 25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Django Unchained25.25m (82'10&quot;)Goetz Composites2009">Django HF</a> rounded out the podium in third. With the first discards now in play, Jolt still leads the overall standings, four points ahead of Jethou.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331363/image/large-63c04024d55684638b0ff15b62bbebf0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331363">Maxi B resultsIn Maxi B, Terry Hui’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lyra24.0m (78'9&quot;)Wally2000">Lyra</a>, the matte black 24-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a> 77, saw her perfect scoreline broken by Paul Berger’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6562" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kallima24.89m (81'8&quot;)Nautor Swan2001">Kallima</a>, a 25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/313" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautor Swan (Company)">Swan</a> 82FD. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6562" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kallima24.89m (81'8&quot;)Nautor Swan2001">Kallima</a> outpaced <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lyra24.0m (78'9&quot;)Wally2000">Lyra</a> by over 12 minutes under IRC corrected time. “We were a bit lucky, but the boat performs well in light wind,” said Vincent Fertin, Kallima’s coach. The heavier <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6562" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kallima24.89m (81'8&quot;)Nautor Swan2001">Kallima</a> took advantage of the light conditions, particularly in flat water, allowing her to carry momentum through tricky wind patches.Despite the loss, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lyra24.0m (78'9&quot;)Wally2000">Lyra</a> still holds a four-point lead in the overall standings, with Christian Oldendorff’s 33.9-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7109" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Geist33.9m (111'3&quot;)Spirit Yachts Ltd2020">Geist</a> sitting in second and Kallima just one point behind in third.Racing continues today, with the event concluding on Saturday. As the competition tightens, all eyes will be on whether the current leaders can hold their positions or if further surprises lie in store.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331362/image/large-8003d6624bc7af711ca1759c8ac21fa5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331362">

Day 3: Shift in rankings at Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez

Day 3 of the Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez saw changes in the rankings among the larger yachts, as the competition heats up.

Day 3: Shift in rankings at Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez as the competition heats up 

The 24.64-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14324" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo SL78/66224.64m (80'10&quot;)Sanlorenzo2017">Sanlorenzo SL78/662</a> motor yacht is on the market with Angel Zhou of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1011" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simpson Marine (Company)">Simpson Marine</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331179/image/large-4ae43c8f00d1142f1947da22d17e842c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331179">Delivered in 2017 by her Italian shipyard as part of the SL78 line, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> features exterior and interior design both crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/366" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Officina Italiana Design (Mauro Micheli) (Company)">Officina Italiana Design (Mauro Micheli)</a>, as well as naval architecture penned in-house by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331197/image/large-808dbea654ee0e186bf44634e45ede81.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331197"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331196/image/large-d6deafc9e5ce7b522847f1e1e1b6c7b2.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331196">With a volume of 70 GT and a beam of 5.7-metres, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/sanlorenzo-sl78-662/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Sanlorenzo SL78/662 for sale</a> is capable of sleeping as many as eight guests across her lavish four stateroom layout. Accommodation is also available to support a crew of up to three members, including the captain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331190/image/large-7ed0b24877c84e8bd558b347951d0c67.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331190"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331188/image/large-78f25e3107e3d79bd7a745efab8b1d36.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331188"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331194/image/large-916517a03a88ba41e534af6843cc46c8.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331194">Thanks to her shallow draft of only 1.8-metres, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> is well-suited to accessing reefs, coves, and shorelines, along with other low anchorage points, for a variety of scenery and experiences onboard. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331181/image/large-dd0f1a74708416d9a202eb716b12b3f4.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331181"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331186/image/large-926129c4f8ed09c2962eab65369ed8c3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331186">Across her exterior deck spaces, the yacht offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including alfresco dining in the sunshine or under the shade. Guests are also invited to catch some rays on the sun loungers or sumptuous outdoor sofas.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331182/image/large-7b48a9b23f7d469a513abb243da905ab.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331182"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331184/image/large-ca4cf5675b655b501db3d9371103e970.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331184">Indoors, the vessel showcases a comfortable, modern aesthetic consisting of a cream, ecru, and pale grey colour palette. Additionally, generously-sized windows bathe each social or private area with an abundance of natural light, while simultaneously providing stunning sea views.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331195/image/large-cd2ed8c5eff0b223ba356c5e7751234d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331195"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331191/image/large-1db696ae788de272198aebc54c503be6.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331191">Where her performance is concerned, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/sanlorenzo/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Sanlorenzo yacht for sale</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines that propel her to a cruising speed of 23 knots and a top speed of 30 knots. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331175/image/large-20e98e4446f9e2d281b8320105650bd4.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331175"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331176/image/large-75464eb09b1ac1bdfcac038602f7da39.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331176">

25m Sanlorenzo SL78/662 yacht for sale 

The 24.64-metre Sanlorenzo SL78/662 motor yacht is on the market with Angel Zhou of Simpson Marine. 


25m Sanlorenzo SL78/662 motor yacht for sale 

Sanctions imposed on the 136-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/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> have been lifted, which will likely mean that the yacht will be allowed to be chartered globally, without restrictions. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299432/image/large-dd28c301c554122e5b9385defd145803.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299432"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> was previously under the management of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial Yachts</a>, when in 2022 following the outbreak of the war between Russia and Ukraine, the company and its CEO were subject to sanctions. The yacht was named in a statement by the US Department of Treasury as ‘blocked property’ in which ‘<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial Yachts</a> has an interest.’&nbsp;Often referred to as the charter market’s largest and most iconic vessel, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> was made available for charter with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bluewater Yachting (Company)">Bluewater Yachting</a> Dubai in January 2024 for UK and EU citizens. However, restrictions were still in place for US citizens and US waters, despite <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bluewater Yachting (Company)">Bluewater Yachting</a>’s statements that “the owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> was not sanctioned and never has been.”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/54694" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Update on Russian yachts seized (2023-06-28 11:45:00 +0200)">Update on Russian yachts seized</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299445/image/large-5b618b0c947ef9fb53735b28be2176f9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299445">According to the Office of Foreign Assets Control, changes have now been made to its Sectoral Sanctions Identifications List (SSI) and its Specifically Designated National List (SDN), of which Flying Fox was listed on the latter.The yacht was sanctioned under Section 11 of the Executive Order 14024 and added to the SDN list by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, which determined it was linked to sanctioned individuals or entities involved in harmful activities. In summary, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> was sanctioned under EO 14024 due to its association with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial Yachts</a>, which was allegedly connected to Russian entities.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299441/image/large-d1c1368797e02c7300fcf4b26fc54e20.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299441">Upon removing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> from this list, it is likely that she will now be able to be chartered globally without restrictions or sanctions. “With immense pride, we are proud to announce that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a>, the epitome of grandeur in the superyacht realm, is now back on the charter market,” explained <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bluewater Yachting (Company)">Bluewater Yachting</a> in January 2024.&nbsp;Built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> and delivered in 2019, the 9,022 GT superyacht was envisioned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/82" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Espen Øino International (Company)">Espen Øino</a>, with the opulent interiors curated by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mark Berryman Design Ltd (Company)">Mark Berryman</a>, featuring a palette of neutral tones and plush fabrics.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299442/image/large-c04d16fee798fb905e888779058b4306.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299442">The entire atmosphere onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> is enhanced through the use of greenery. With towering ficus trees and planters, the contemporary and neutral colour palette and natural textures create a warm and relaxing ambience.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> can comfortably accommodate up to 22 guests across 11 staterooms. Her master suite is situated on the upper deck and includes a beauty room, his-and-hers dressing rooms, a private office, fireplace and a private Jacuzzi.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299443/image/large-fe0a151ca25cc33525a824baa1ab6964.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299443">Her remaining guest staterooms consist of 10 VIP suites, all with their own balcony, office, bathroom and walk-in wardrobe, with two of the suites operating as convertible twins. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> can also sleep a crew of 55.Some of the key features onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> include a 400 square-metre, two-floor spa, with the first cryotherapy chamber ever installed on a yacht. She is also equipped with a 12-metre swimming pool, dual helipads and a ‘wet massage room’.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299446/image/large-2dfce77f84c4cd3cb8532c929bb281ae.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299446">Guests are also able to engage in kite surfing, sailing or powered watersports, under the supervision of the water sports team, while the onboard dive instructors offer PADI courses, with closed circuit rebreathers. For those who are already masters of the deep, there is a professional standard IHC deck decompression chamber, allowing remote diving expeditions, without compromising safety.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/299435/image/large-036d08f2ed082af80486c30b8f9e0167.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/299435">

Sanctions on 136m Lürssen superyacht Flying Fox lifted

Sanctions imposed on the Lürssen yacht Flying Fox have been lifted, which will likely mean that the yacht will be allowed to be chartered globally.

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Breaking news: Sanctions on 136m Lürssen superyacht Flying Fox lifted

SuperYacht Times has successfully hosted two editions of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/232" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gulf Superyacht Summit - 2024">Gulf Superyacht Summit (GSS)</a>, in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Drawing on insights from these previous editions and feedback from our attendees and partners, we are implementing major changes to the event’s set-up. These adjustments are designed to highlight the positive developments, identify key challenges, and focus on the solutions, so that we can drive further positive change in the region. This year's event will once again be held under the patronage of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6707" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="P&O Marinas (Company)">P&amp;O Marinas</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302006/image/large-523927ee97e59451086e876416452cfb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302006">Research project&nbsp;The Gulf Superyacht Market Report has been highly successful in providing a detailed market analysis. This year, the focus of the report will shift slightly as our team researches all the positive changes observed in the region over the last five to ten years. These improvements are often overlooked. By maintaining a yearly record, we aim to consistently highlight the progress achieved.Additionally, the report will feature input from key industry stakeholders from the region and detail all the challenges that remain. This will provide a comprehensive overview of the focus areas for the upcoming GSS, serving as a basis for shaping the panel discussions and workshops.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250654/image/large-993514269e10bd6c830dae5897a0c594.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250654">A new conference programmeOur experience from the past two editions has shown that most discussions often circle back to the same challenges, leading to a repetition and tendency to end on a negative note due to a lack of focus on solutions. With the findings from our research project, we will design panels and workshops that are solution oriented.&nbsp;A few key points:Opening PresentationThe opening presentation will summarise the findings of the report and introduce the new conference programme, outlining how everyone present can actively participate in driving the necessary change.Panels focussed on SolutionsFollowing the opening presentation, two panels will initiate in-depth discussions focused on identifying the solutions. The topics and speakers for these initial panels will be announced shortly. If you have suggestions for issues that need addressing or speakers who should be featured, please contact us. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/249736/image/large-bb6cbf5650eb1b893d9b6e6ea2185f9b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/249736">Opportunities &amp; LearningsAt the Gulf Superyacht Summit, we will also invite some people who have built successful companies to share key insights and lessons we can learn from their experiences. Furthermore, we will invite speakers from nearby regions to discuss opportunities there and explore collaborative strategies to attract more yachts to the Middle East and Asia.InspirationalA successful conference not only informs but also inspires attendees and adds a touch of fun. To this end, we are preparing several unique presentations and lining up excellent speakers.&nbsp;Interactive and Live involvementDriving change requires the involvement of all stakeholders. At the GSS, we will continue to use digital tools to engage the audience actively. Moreover, this year will feature dedicated workshops and enhanced direct participation from attendees during panel discussions.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/294633/image/large-7930321a891004659fe6ce0babe05f58.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/294633">Increased Network OpportunitiesConnecting people is one of the key elements of any conference. This year’s programme will include over 12 hours of networking. A list of the guests and speakers will be made available, and we will introduce new digital tools ahead of the event to make connecting and planning meetings easier.&nbsp;Key network events include:<ul><li>Breakfast networking</li><li>Coffee breaks</li><li>90-min lunch break</li><li>Welcome drinks</li><li>Networking dinner</li></ul>Q&amp;A:Who is in the audience?We expect around 275 people to join the event and they will include:<ul><li>Government representatives</li><li>Tourism authorities</li><li>Owner’s representatives</li><li>Captains &amp; crew</li><li>Yacht Managers</li><li>Brokers</li><li>Builders</li><li>Designers</li><li>Yacht Agents</li><li>Marinas Professionals</li><li>Suppliers</li></ul>And many others.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/294644/image/large-1b90044010b119b30b0db28da557194a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/294644">Do you have any input for the report on the positive change you have seen in the region, like changes in regulations, or do you want to share the challenges you are facing today then please get in touch with us through <a href="mailto:news@superyachttimes.com" title="">news@superyachttimes.com</a>.How can I attend?<a href="https://dubai.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/94185/gulf-superyacht-summit" target="_blank">You can buy your ticket now via the Gulf Superyacht Summit website</a>, early bird ticket sales will end on 14 October.&nbsp;Who will be the speakers?The speakers will be announced shortly.How can I submit my input about the region?Yes for sure - please email your ideas to <a href="mailto:info@superyachttimes.com" target="_blank">info@superyachttimes.com</a>.&nbsp;Can I be a speaker?We are open to all speaker suggestions and if you have any suggestions please email them to <a href="mailto:info@superyachttimes.com" target="_blank">info@superyachttimes.com</a>.&nbsp;Can I still sponsor the event?Please get in touch with our sales team for the availability of our sponsorship packages through <a href="mailto:sales@superyachttimes.com" target="_blank">sales@superyachttimes.com</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/319920/image/large-0ed2fc1590c1bc0f32c49e6fcf354dd3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/319920">

Gulf Superyacht Summit 2024 new format

Announcing the new format for the Gulf Superyacht Summit by SuperYacht Times.

Major changes announced for the Gulf Superyacht Summit

MYS 2024: Yacht Design & Innovation Hub roundtables in partnership with SuperYacht Times

We take a look at everything you may have missed from this year’s roundtable talks, in collaboration with SuperYacht Times. 

Everything you missed from the Yacht Design & Innovation Hub roundtables at MYS 2024

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2013" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ARES Yachts (Company)">ARES Yachts</a>, launched in September 2023, is already making waves with its first project, the 62-metre cruising performance ketch <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a>. Named after an ancient coastal city in Antalya, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a> is the company's flagship vessel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328451/image/large-c3e0f3a2014a87df029a040c32e3e614.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328451"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a>’s interior and exterior designs are penned by the hands of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/703" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Taka Yacht Design (Company)">Taka Yacht Design</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Design Unlimited (Company)">Design Unlimited</a> respectively. A true-go anywhere yacht is designed to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1457" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RINA (Company)">RINA</a> Class C requirements, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a> will feature traditional laid teak decks and varnished Sipo Mahogany exterior joinery. Its design is inspired by a gentler age of sail and merges the classical with the modern with ease.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/296271/image/large-62ea19eb334c97d678c0dab5bd8834e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/296271">This superyacht combines traditional sailing aesthetics with modern technology, featuring a carbon-epoxy superstructure and aluminium masts for strong performance. Powered by hybrid propulsion, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a> can reach a top speed of 14.5 knots. Once completed, she will join the exclusive group of 60-metre+ sailing yachts under 500GT.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/296270/image/large-c5033698ed876cae605d6caee4505297.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/296270">“The main inspiration behind the exterior lines was the clipper ships - especially the bow with fully rigged bowsprit and trail board. One can also find some resemblances with the early steam yachts, sharing lovely, classic sheer lines,” says Osman Tanju Kalaycioglu, naval architect and owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/703" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Taka Yacht Design (Company)">Taka Yacht Design</a>.Recently, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2013" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ARES Yachts (Company)">ARES Yachts</a> named <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop & Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a> exclusive sales broker of 62-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a> sailing superyacht.&nbsp;Destination is anywhere<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a> is equipped with a hybrid drive system, the yacht can operate silently at up to 6 knots using electric power. Her 220kW electric motors, supplemented by an 882kW diesel engine, enable a top speed of 14.5 knots and a 4,000-nautical-mile range at 11 knots. The yacht's rigging includes a 59.5-metre main mast and sails from top suppliers. Designed to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1457" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RINA (Company)">RINA</a> Class C standards, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a> is built for global cruising.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/288102/image/large-51fc14f5a61a82d1eca745418b98a245.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/288102"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a> offers six control modes, ranging from pure sailing to combined propulsion, providing flexibility and precision for various sailing conditions. The yacht’s rigging, designed by Chris Mitchell, includes a 48.7-metre mizzen mast and high-performance sails from industry leaders like Doyle and Bamar. Her advanced propulsion system includes controllable pitch propellers with a fail-safe design for maximum reliability.Sophisticated design<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a>’s interior, designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Design Unlimited (Company)">Design Unlimited</a>, reflects its classic exterior with a calming, neutral palette featuring woven metals, leathers, and stones. Guests will enjoy a Jacuzzi, sun pads, a shaded flybridge with stunning views, and a private foredeck lounge. The yacht accommodates up to 12 guests and nine crew, with a full-beam owner’s suite on the main deck, complete with an en-suite, dressing room, and hot tub. Other guest cabins offer comfort with a clean, relaxed design. Modern elements like hidden TV lifts blend seamlessly with the classic decor, which includes walnut, textured leathers, and antiqued brass accents. The yacht also boasts an advanced AV system for a customised audio-visual experience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/296265/image/large-11dce1bd61577128f391c25c71897004.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/296265">The deckhouse saloon on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a> provides formal dining with panoramic sea views, enhancing the onboard experience. Soft edges and generous handrails in transition spaces create a sense of safety and comfort throughout the yacht. The hidden modern elements ensure that guests can enjoy contemporary luxuries without disrupting the classic ambiance.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/296264/image/large-4a2e1d244ab2aee90a80b76376680c9b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/296264"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/296263/image/large-1449d61dc1713fdb102ac3d9e2645444.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/296263"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena61.61m (202'2&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Simena</a> is currently in the outfitting stage and is scheduled to be delivered in 2025.More exciting projects<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2013" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ARES Yachts (Company)"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/324535/image/large-ddc58509d952f734137f14d85474ec3a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/324535">ARES Yachts</a> keeps working on several new motor superyacht projects. Just recently the company has unveiled the first images of a unique 50.55-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Spitfire50.0m (164'1&quot;)ARES Yachts2025">Spitfire</a>. It will deliver thoroughly modern living in a fast, transoceanic yacht that will challenge conventions and set new design standards. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329088/image/large-0e912e7043be0eb633ace7986f268413.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329088">Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/17" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bannenberg & Rowell Design (Company)">Bannenberg &amp; Rowell</a> and engineered by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lateral Naval Architects (Company)">Lateral Naval Architects</a>, the new yacht has drawn on the fast displacement hull dynamics of its hugely successful <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2013" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ARES Yachts (Company)">ARES</a> 150 BOLD offshore patrol vessel. The yacht will have enviable performance and stability, with a maximum speed of 22 knots and a cruising range 3,500 nautical miles.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328458/image/large-ba40591fd70cd1405cde330de0f6cdc7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328458">Also, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2013" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ARES Yachts (Company)">ARES Yachts</a> is developing the 54-metre Atlas project with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a> (part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a>) for exterior and interior design. Steel hull is designed following the design principles of the FDHF by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/460" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Oossanen Naval Architects (Company)">Van Oossanen Naval Architects</a>. It is a modern explorer yacht that balances the functional needs of seasoned yachtsmen with contemporary design trends. It boasts sharp, angular lines and a high, solid bow, ensuring durability in even the toughest seas, with a maximum speed of 17 knots and a cruising range of 4,845 nautical miles at 11 knots. Designed in dark tones like anthracite grey or black, the yacht exudes sophistication and strength. Each deck offers generous outdoor spaces, with the stern featuring a swim platform and the upper decks providing luxurious lounge areas for relaxation and outdoor activities.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329090/image/large-cca9d4e40d6d4fa20fa469612ca8b5a2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329090">In addition, the company plans to introduce a new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2013" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ARES Yachts (Company)">ARES</a> Superyacht Range with lengths of 65-metre, 75-metre, and 85-metre.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328457/image/large-648c9870a4f6535021ec19a01a143053.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328457">

Several large projects underway at ARES Yachts

ARES Yachts, launched in September 2023, is already making waves with its first project, the 62m cruising performance ketch Simena.

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331231/image/large-0070b978966bd7c360adf0a94294e1ac.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331231">Observed this September anchored with her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5597" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rock.It60.35m (197'12&quot;)Feadship2014">Wajer</a> tender, in Primosten, Croatia, is the 60.35-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5597" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rock.It60.35m (197'12&quot;)Feadship2014">Rock.It</a>. Originally delivered in 2014 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>, the 1,052 GT superyacht features both exterior and interior designs 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>, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/30" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Voogt Naval Architects (Company)">De Voogt Naval Architects</a> handled the naval architecture. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5597" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rock.It60.35m (197'12&quot;)Feadship2014">Rock.It</a> has undergone consistent refits, including a major yearlong, multi-million-dollar renovation from 2019 to 2020, mainly focused on her interior. She offers several entertainment spaces both inside and outside, including a large swim platform, a spacious main saloon with a movie theatre, and ample outdoor lounging areas. 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, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5597" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rock.It60.35m (197'12&quot;)Feadship2014">Rock.It</a> cruises at 12 knots and can reach a top speed of 15 knots. The Cayman Islands-flagged yacht is now undergoing a refit in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/97" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 Barcelona (Company)">MB92 Barcelona</a>.

60m superyacht Rock.It in Croatia

The 60m superyacht Rock.It, built by Feadship in 2014, is seen anchored here in Primosten, Croatia. 

Semar (Serveis Marítims Port Eivissa) has teamed up with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6623" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocibar (Company)">Ocibar</a> to renovate the yacht facility formerly known as La Marina de Valencia, converting it into Marina Port Valencia.&nbsp;Located in the northern part of the Port of Valencia, this project is being facilitated by two groups that specialise in benchmark yachting projects in the Mediterranean. The companies’ right to operate and manage the concession was signed earlier this week on 1 October. They will now develop and operate the project submitted to Valencia Port Authority for a minimum period of 35 years.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331229/image/large-4e1695846313bf69f20dab3003726572.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331229">The project includes three separate marinas - Marina Norte, Marina Sur and Marina City - and will renovate the entire site, breathing new life into it. The new Marina Valencia licence-holder is set to restore the “previous life and spirit” of the area, which once hosted the America’s cup, according to IPM Group.The renovation will see the facility be separated into four individual areas the first of which will consist of three marinas in the centre of the city for yachts between eight and 130-metres in length. The second section will comprise the construction of a refit and repair yard housing specialist companies.&nbsp;Moreover, the third section will include a leisure, dining, and entertainment area that merges with the locale, ensuring the marina is a popular venue for local, national, and international visitors. Lastly, the fourth section will feature an architecturally aesthetic area offering sea views, offices, and retail units, which will also be paired with parking spaces, bike lanes, jogging tracks, terraces, and landscaped gardens.&nbsp;“However, the project doesn’t just involve the revamp of the marina, but also includes the development of fascinating social, nautical, environmental and sporting proposals that will be rolled out as the whole project takes shape,” IPM group explains.&nbsp;

New urban marina project Marina Port Valencia

Semar (Serveis Marítims Port Eivissa) and Ocibar will renovate a yacht facility, converting it into Marina Port Valencia. 


Marina Port Valencia’s new urban marina project 

The 18th May 2022 marks the first celebration for the International Day for Women in Maritime. The day celebrates women in the industry and is intended to promote recruitment, raise the profile of women in maritime and address the current gender imbalance in the maritime industry.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227489/image/large-17c5e1deaf6f19225da98b84465e4c31.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227489">In 2021, a survey on diversity in the industry by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6715" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="She of the Sea (Company)">She of the Sea</a>, highlighted the disparity between female crews and their male counterparts. The team found that of 32,000 crew members, including those currently employed and those seeking work, only 28 percent were women and more shockingly, only 2.1 percent of captains were female. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227494/image/large-12c143c193660a52c3d85c4c2b73c6f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227494"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6715" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="She of the Sea (Company)">She of the Sea</a> was founded by Jenny Matthews in 2018 after she realised she had not worked with another female in the deck department. The company has evolved to look into diversity, inclusion, innovation and sustainability in the yacht industry. “We did this data collection to guide the programmes that we build. A really big challenge we encountered though was that although these organisations wanted to be involved, only 37 percent of the 57 companies actually had this data available.”The gender imbalance with yacht crew is quite a staggering statistic, and really highlights the key issues faced in crew leadership roles. There is a very obvious gender imbalance across all roles with senior roles facing similar issues. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6715" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="She of the Sea (Company)">She of the Sea</a> found that only one in four women in the yachting industry occupy a senior position; to break this down, 3.9 percent are chief officers, 1.9 percent are captains. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227361/image/large-0d229b716cc16d58a9ae49294899825b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227361">Across the industry there are women thriving on the challenge of changing these statistics. To put these figures into perspective, according to <a href="https://superyachttimes.ac-page.com/homepage" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SYT iQ</a> out of the 1,209 active captains, only one percent are female. One of those is the 32.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6390" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Freddy32.2m (105'8&quot;)Sanlorenzo2016">Freddy</a>’s captain, Kelly Gordon, who was introduced into yachting by a student while working as a chemistry professor. “I was intrigued from the moment that I stepped on board. I remember remarking, ‘I can drive this thing!’ to the captain and he challenged me to return the next day!” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227357/image/large-3624aaa36062b2311cb07155f2f01f2f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227357">Kelly knew nothing about boats before this moment and it became clear pretty early on that she was in a male dominated industry. “I am quite determined and when I set a goal, I reach it. Before long, the men in the industry became my greatest assets and support! I think that as more and more women show up and succeed in male dominated roles it just opens the doors for other women that might need a little nudge to pursue their dream.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227493/image/large-d057736efe4e04d3f8db73641ba44861.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227493">Although the statistics for females onboard are low, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6715" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="She of the Sea (Company)">She of the Sea</a>’s survey found that when it comes to the shore-side sector, 34 percent of Managers are female and 17.4 percent are female Directors. Despite the survey showing that the yacht crew sector is unbalanced, with more men in deck and engineering roles than women, they have instead found jobs onshore.&nbsp;Sarah Flavell, Communications Specialist at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> knows all too well about the challenges women have faced to get to this stage. “When I joined the superyacht industry 20 years ago, the landscape of gender equality was very different. I can remember working at boat shows and being one of only five or so women at the entire event that was not a visitor. People were always very surprised to see females there, especially working, it just wasn’t part of what the industry was used to.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227358/image/large-7c3ae25e987c930550b85719620a26dd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227358">This experience is one that many women across the industry are experiencing when they first enter the world of yachting. Francesca Webster, Editor-in-Chief at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4509" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYacht Times (Company)">SuperYacht Times</a>, was first introduced to yachting by her brother when she was 18. “It opened many doors over the years and I fell in love with the industry and the yachts themselves.” She worked for a few years with him running charter yachts, before moving towards sailing, and eventually to her current position in the industry, at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4509" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYacht Times (Company)">SuperYacht Times</a>. “It still remains a highly male dominated industry, both onboard and ashore, and I think one of the biggest challenges comes when your ability or skill set is overlooked on face value for your gender – which is not an irregular occurrence.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227491/image/large-834fc361b6e4878dd06cbb41954a1527.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227491"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6715" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="She of the Sea (Company)">She of the Sea</a>’s 2021 survey found that 66.6 percent of employers have faced challenges with recruiting, placing or retaining women within the industry. “We found that when we look at common barriers that any marginalised community faces, a lot of it comes down to opportunity and access,” added Jenny Matthews. &nbsp;Those same organisation’s were also asked the same question but regarding minorities, which found that 75 percent had encountered challenges. “Yachting is an ego driven industry filled with successful people, there will always be challenges no matter the gender!” says Veronica Pizza, yacht broker for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2529" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Worth Avenue Yachts (Company)">Worth Avenue Yachts</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227510/image/large-3ae22eeef43145436f7574a2af1685e0.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227510">As <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6715" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="She of the Sea (Company)">She of the Sea</a>’s survey results have already suggested, it is extremely important for us to understand the career aspirations of those in the industry, especially women. The learning opportunities absorbed during our training can set the tone for years to come. This is why it is important to recognise this indifference, as Veronica Pizza so eloquently puts it “don’t let the gender imbalance stop you from pursuing your career choice, whatever that may be!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227359/image/large-65130fae0e32b03825ac5ca45e56f4e1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227359">Hannah Hombergen, the founder and designer at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6714" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Quintesse Group (Company)">Quintesse Group</a>, an interior design company based in the Netherlands, believes the industry is adapting and that the tides are now changing for the better. “There are always challenges in this niche industry, but I see gender-related challenges decreasing over the years. Women in the industry are working more and more together, so we become stronger together. Men are not a tread for us, but an asset for our development and strength!”So how can we become more inclusive of gender and minorities within the yachting industry? Organisations need to be looking more at their verbal and visual representation to make sure that their education, policies and practices reflect all genders and minorities. We need to be focusing on how the talent pipeline is distributed with the next generation, and how we recruit these individuals. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227490/image/large-cd5df8ccee88791e66d6fa2ca73475ed.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227490">Jenny Matthews says, “For women it is important to know that your power as a woman isn’t about how much you can be like a man, or that your power in a minority isn’t how much you can assimilate to the majority. It’s about how much you can step into your own power and be your authentic self. You can’t let your gender define you, but you also can’t cut it out of who you are. So embrace your uniqueness because it will be your power.”

International Day for Women in Maritime 2022

The 18th May 2022 marks the first celebration for the International Day for Women in Maritime. 

International Day for Women in Maritime 2022: How the tides are turning for women in yachting

Happy International Women's Day 2018! To celebrate this day, we spoke to influential women from across the yachting industry to hear their inspiring top tips for women who want to get ahead in what is often perceived by many to be a male-dominated industry.&nbsp;Katya Grzeszczak Jaimes<img src="/uploads/store/photo/27377/image/large-5ba944a072e44b7fb23c5eb029576d32.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/27377">Katya Grzeszczak Jaimes is a Sales and Charter Consultant for IYC."The topic of women in yacht brokerage is actually a very 'near and dear' subject to my heart. It’s a fascinating and potentially highly rewarding industry, and as such, it appears very attractive yet very intimidating to many. It was not easy for me breaking in some ten years ago.&nbsp;I had to figure everything out on my own, but having ladies as role models and mentors such as&nbsp;Terry Hines, Barbara Dawson, Ann Landry and Barbara Stork&nbsp;made all the difference. Cultivating courage and perseverance in ourselves as women are key to making it in this high stakes, high tension, fast-paced industry.""The yachting industry is divided in such unique way that more than 90% of all charter brokers in the world are female, and, on the contrary, more than 90% of all sales brokers in the world are men. Having now made a transition into selling mega yachts as well, I feel male yacht brokers accepted me as an equal and professional colleague as soon as I was able to prove myself as a capable and strong sales broker. Seeing female yacht captains out there makes me extremely happy. I’m excited for this industry and for the world, in general, today as I see glass ceilings being crushed all around."&nbsp; Carla Demaria&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/27366/image/large-a417ec4f9e14f2a483b2d28fc9aa3995.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/27366"> Carla Demaria is the President of Monte Carlo Yachts, President of the Board of UCINA (the Italian Yachting Federation) and is also a member of the board of directors of the Beneteau Group in France.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I am often asked what my recipe was to succeed in such a male-dominated profession. I believe that passion, competency, consistency, and risk-taking are all necessary, but there is one fundamental thing that women have to equip themselves with: self-esteem. Often women do not dare to ask for progress because they think they are not up to it. In order to change this female attitude, I also believe that it is important that women who have succeeded are out there leading the way for other women."&nbsp; Bonnie McIvor&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/27367/image/large-66574397952a7c2d0b2db3f15e9b978b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/27367"> Bonnie McIvor is the managing director of the superyacht project management company, McIvor &amp; Team.&nbsp;"My experience in the yachting industry has been extremely positive. I would encourage anyone with drive and heart to pursue or continue a career in our industry. My company is a boutique firm focused on project management and auditing. &nbsp;Whilst we don’t fit a typical business model, each year we thrive with repeat and new clients. We operate on a few foundational principles, which are to work with like-minded individuals and build strong teams, that flexibility and structure are not mutually exclusive, and that you should measure success on your own terms." Maria Grazia Franco&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/27024/image/large-b4e292d69a8d9a814f65e53b45756d48.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/27024"> Maria Grazia Franco is the Captain of the 72.1-metre superyacht Stella Maris.&nbsp;"I always believed that through hard work, commitment, enthusiasm, preparation, studying, continuous investment in yourself, and love for your job, sooner or later you could achieve what you wanted. It could be a hard and long road for a female in the yachting industry, but if you want to make this job your life career, you have to accept it. And get up after every failure, no matter how many times.""Yes, it may take you more time to get where you want to compare to your male counterpart, but use that extra time to your advantage, to be better and more prepared than your counterpart, when your time finally comes. And don't use difficulties as an excuse for giving up. Believe in yourself, believe you can do it, don't let anyone else tell you otherwise. Love what you do, no matter what. Only if you don't love it enough is it not worth the fight."

International Women's Day 2018: Inspiring women in yachting 

With International Women’s Day on everyone’s lips, we shine the spotlight on just some of the key female industry figures we’ve featured in our coverage on SuperYacht Times over the past year. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/66234/image/large-d9dc43e5edf1dbdd49e041f3e1ab4fe3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/66234">Superyacht photographer Olga Dromas&nbsp;In our latest edition of The SuperYacht Times newspaper, we spoke to superyacht photographer Olga Dromas and found out the story behind her favourite shot:<img src="/uploads/store/photo/66233/image/large-ebd7db6aa905c9443dd34ef98ff5073a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/66233">“On one of blueiprod’s first big yachts shoots ever, we had the challenge of capturing the entire 91.4-metre&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/271" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moonlight II91.4m (299'10&quot;)Neorion2005">Moonlight II</a>&nbsp;in a single day instead of four days as initially anticipated and we ended up working from sunrise to sunset to get it all in. During the final shot where we photographed one helicopter landing on the yacht from another helicopter, another guest helicopter arrived on scene completely unplanned. Just as they departed we managed to get them in position for this shot, a cool reward for a very tough day of shooting.” &nbsp; &nbsp;Market Watch: Irina Blagodyr and Julia Stewart&nbsp;Last month, as part of our Market Watch series, we interviewed a range of industry leaders in the brokerage sector to find out their views on the 2018 superyacht market. We spoke to <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/bluewater-russian-yacht-market" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Irina Blagodyr</a>, the head of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bluewater (Company)">Bluewater</a> Russia and<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/julia-stewart-imperial">&nbsp;Julia Stewart,&nbsp;</a>Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial Yachts</a>, and gained an insight into the performance of the market and their predictions for the upcoming year.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/63029/image/large-c467dcb8bb952dcf2204fe6ea0e2822d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/63029">Julia Stewart: “2018 was an important year for our industry and a step into its next decade: the demand is growing, as is the size of the yachts to be delivered from 2019 and beyond. We do believe that we are witnessing an important evolution which will durably and positively change the face of yachting.”<img src="/uploads/store/photo/63944/image/large-58d79bba221614a58bbc86d7bccbd287.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/63944">Inina Blago: “Yachts built after 2010 are much more likely to be sold quicker than older vessels. The sweet spot range for current buyers is 30 - 50-metres. Yachts that are well-priced and attractive to the charter market are the yachts we are focusing on at Bluewater.” <img src="/uploads/store/photo/55403/image/large-db527a65b3b5c2096ebf83a56d0450e5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/55403">5 Questions with... Aino Grapin, CEO of Winch DesignBack in November, <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/5-questions-with-aino-grapin-ceo-of-winch-design" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">we caught up with Aino Grapin</a> and learned about her journey from strategy consulting and growing businesses in the art, luxury and technology sectors to becoming CEO of the British yacht design studio, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch Design</a>. “I am naturally curious and love learning about new industries. When I was approached about this fantastic role in a creative industry with so many parallels with the fine art sector, I seized the opportunity. I have been able to build on my knowledge of the client base and what service they expect, managing creatives and a shared passion for art and design.” <img src="/uploads/store/photo/58887/image/large-45a287468db3a5d7be21ca27d32eeac6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/58887">Female crews excel during 2018 Rolex Sydney Hobart 2019 kicked off with <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/female-crews-excel-during-2018-rolex-sydney-hobart" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">the 74th edition of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race</a>, where a fleet of 85 boats manned by over 1,000 sailors set off from Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day 2018 in a 628-mile sprint to the island of Tasmania. Highlights of this exciting race included 80 female crew who participated and, in particular, the all-female Wild Oats X that finished second overall. Several other female skippers led their yachts to class victories, but it was Wild Oats X’s Stacey Jackson that was awarded the Jane Tate Memorial Trophy for the first female skipper to complete the race.

females in yachting international womens day 

We shine the spotlight on just some of the key female industry figures we’ve featured in our coverage on SuperYacht Times over the past year.


Super yachting females on International Women’s Day 2019

Giovanna Vitelli, former Vice President of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Azimut|Benetti </a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Group</a>, has been named Chairwoman of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Group</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260758/image/large-d114845098d9a706f89986d98c42100b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260758">Commenting on the appointment, Giovanna Vitelli said, “I would like to thank my father infinitely for his trust and the teachings of a lifetime, as well as all the people who have made and will continue to make the history of our Group”.The shipyard stated, “The path forward of continuity in the family, strongly desired by the founder Paolo Vitelli, guarantees the stability necessary to seize all the opportunities of the future.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/255941/image/large-6d6899cced809d7f993e3b87b40ed378.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/255941">Founded in 1969, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a> went on to acquire <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> in 1985. This year the Group is celebrating its 150th anniversary. During the company’s 23rd Benetti Yacht Master, held last month in Abu Dhabi, Vitelli confirmed strong business health, with “an annual turnover of around €1.2 billion”.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/246616/image/large-9e89dcb4becf5e52052787f9177caabe.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/246616">According to <a href="https://superyachttimes.ac-page.com/homepage" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SYT iQ</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a> have more than 700 yachts – over 24-metres in length – in operation, with a further 127 in-build. &nbsp;

Giovanna Vitelli named Chairwoman of Azimut|Benetti Group

Giovanna Vitelli, Vice President of the Azimut|Benetti Group, has been named chairwoman of the Group. 

Following the announcement of Ione Astondoa’s employment within the family-owned <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa Shipyard</a>, SuperYacht Times sat down with millennial and the fourth generation Astondoa, to discuss her decision to join the family business, her unique position as a young woman working in the yachting industry and the exciting developments currently underway at the Spanish shipyard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/193957/image/large-7a0d38b223e82687d0120f6ba6032820.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/193957">Can you explain what your position is with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa</a>? What are some of the projects you are working on? “Currently, I am working between several different departments, because it's important to me to learn from each section of the shipyard. My dad, the CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa</a>, has taught me and continues to teach me, so much about the ins and outs of the business. Each day is like a master class with him. I am part of the production and cost analysis department, which I love, and it's a very good way to learn about the process of manufacturing boats. I am also the head of the communication department, which is a challenge for me because I am developing new communication strategies for the shipyard. These challenges are due, in part, to the presence of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has been such a challenge for us, as well as the industry as a whole, because we are not used to communicating with clients virtually. We’ve had no other choice, but the results are positive and we are optimistic about our new communication strategies.” As a fourth-generation Astondoa, was it always your ambition to follow the family into the superyacht industry? “Of course, when I was younger, I had moments when I didn't want to be part of this industry, but at the end of the day, I have the desire to continue the family legacy in my blood. I am beyond grateful to now be a part of the industry, I really love it. I grew up between boats and by the sea. My cousins, who also now work at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa</a>, and I, grew up coming to see my grandfather and would get to step inside all of the action and excitement happening each day at the shipyard. Seeing my grandfather, my uncles, and my dad working so hard to make <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa</a> one of the greatest shipyards in the world has also made me want to continue in their footsteps. I think that there is something innate about wanting to work for the family business.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/190195/image/large-3b1f385f80031b3e30f66932055f5252.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/190195">You’ve said previously that "Female sensitivity and young talent have a lot to contribute to the visibility of industrial sectors ". How do you see your perspective as a young woman in continuing to push the yachting industry forward? “I think that we millennials are fresh air to the industry today. My generation has been preparing to get opportunities in an industry, where acquiring young talent has never really been a priority. Having an outside perspective and a new vision can sometimes be a barrier in this industry because it can, in some ways, be conservative. There is less of a willingness to listen to new ideas when certain things have been done in a specific way for so long. It can be hard for the industry’s veterans to trust new ways of doing things, when former strategies have worked for so long.” “For example, the Covid-19 pandemic has forced us to put trust in online strategies, which have given new approaches the opportunity to succeed in this sector. I believe that digitalisation and luxury already coexist with one another. Last week we participated in the first digital luxury congress and it was a complete success. In our industry, it is very important to be able to see and feel yachts. But under today’s current circumstances a digital approach helps to fill the gaps provided by the inability to do and see in person. This is where the integration of old and new strategies proves to be effective and where a fresh perspective and approach is advantageous."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/176976/image/large-5a76df5516460138df66723f38c933bf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/176976">The announcement of your employment with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa</a>&nbsp;mentioned that “Ione Astondoa, because of her youth, belonging to the millennial generation, and because she is a woman, had to break down barriers when she arrived at the family company”. Can you elaborate on what kinds of barriers or challenges you’ve faced, and how you overcame them? “I think there are two separate, but important factors at play here. The first of which is my age. This was no doubt the most difficult barrier I had to overcome because of the perception that I lacked the experience. In that way, it has been difficult to gain trust. But I kept trying and trying and demonstrating that a fresh perspective like mine in combination with the pre-existing strategies could be a win-win situation. Combining experience with the new outlook that young women like me can give to the industry, could be amazing. So that has been my goal, is to be listened to and trusted by the most experienced people in the company and industry. The second factor at play is the fact of being a woman. It is difficult, no matter the company, the country, the industry, to be a woman in this world. I am grateful because I see that old patterns are changing. I see that women are taking power across all industries, including the yachting industry. I am so proud to be part of this change. If I can use my voice to stand up or speak out for women, I forever will." <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa</a>&nbsp;has previously described the modern-day social environment as “avant-garde, where luxury has to coexist with digitalisation and sustainability”. How will the&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa</a>&nbsp;brand continue to evolve within these conditions? “We still have a long way to go in this industry to become one hundred percent sustainable. At <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa</a>, we are working on new yacht models that could operate entirely with renewable energy such as solar panels. Also, at the shipyard and work facilities we have current initiatives underway to employ more sustainable practices. We are in the process of setting up solar panels in all of our facilities, using electric vehicles and implementing a specific recycling system, as a first step.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/193956/image/large-8b8c499e0ce0ce0feacaa2868ba4125d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/193956" 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; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Can you tell us about some of the most exciting projects currently underway at&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa</a>? “I cannot disclose too many details, but, currently, we are focussed on building yachts in the 20 to 33 metre range. Our clientele are really looking for smaller boats because they are more comfortable to navigate and easier in terms of bureaucracy. We launched the 25.25-metre AS8 in September and our design team is currently working on a new model in our AS range. Though we are catering to the demands of our client base, we do have the capacity to build larger superyachts such as the 60-metre 197 Steel model and the 125 Century model that is still currently undergoing the final stages of the design process.”

Women in yachting: Ione Astondoa of Astondoa Shipyard

SYT with Ione Astondoa the fourth generation of the Astondoa Shipyard on joining the family business and being a woman in the yachting industry.

Long Read

International Women’s Day 2023: Women at the helm of change