This is an extract of the full interview with Kommer and Rose Damen in the latest issue of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>Walking into the Damen headquarters in the tiny Dutch city of Gorinchem to meet Kommer Damen earlier this year was a little nerve-racking. Mr Damen is, after all, an important man. An important man who famously permits just two interviews with the media per year. Founder, former CEO and current Chairman of the Damen Group which, under Kommer’s leadership since 1969, boasts over 34 shipyards worldwide, 10,000 employees and an annual turnover of €2 billion in 2017. Needless to say, our early morning drive from Amsterdam largely consisted of reading and rereading our interview questions, and being acutely aware that this was, indeed, a big deal.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/46859/image/large-8a18952d82b00a216e258d1e723216e6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/46859">As my time spent interviewing superyacht owners and business leaders across the world should have taught me by now, however, anxious expectations when meeting with the world’s elite are almost never met. A <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/47877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Owner insight: on board the new 67m superyacht Seasense (2017-11-23 11:45:00 +0100)">New York real estate mogul</a> or a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/47726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Espen Øino: Norway, REV and how we’re killing our own industry (2017-10-10 10:00:00 +0200)">Monegasque-living superyacht designer</a>, when the subject is boats, the ocean and the beauty of yachting, you’re almost guaranteed a surprisingly easy and wonderfully candid encounter. Kommer is a fantastic example of that: a warm, down-to-earth Dutchman, deeply passionate about the industry which he has built an incredibly successful five-decade career around.&nbsp;Welcomed to Kommer’s office and sat down alongside Kommer’s daughter and an increasingly integral part of the Damen machine, Rose, we start our interview. Earlier that week I had stumbled across a story about Kommer in a Dutch publication. My translation proved to be a little off, but from what I gathered, when Kommer was a teenager he got into a fistfight with an employee at the yard, and his father fired him... In hindsight, perhaps not the best first question to ask a man you’re a little nervous about interviewing - especially when your translation’s ‘a little off’.Thankfully, he grins and says, “Well, it was actually my professor at school, not an employee. I was expelled not fired, so I don’t know where you got that! But yes, I gave him a small push, he fell on the floor and I was sent away from school… My father went to the Headmaster and told him, ‘This boy has ruined everything for himself. But - please let him come back next year.’ He agreed, and my father sent me to work on the shipyard floor for a year.”&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/50697/image/large-2b4dc3be6eb62ec151597167f33079fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/50697">&nbsp;The original Damen yard at HarnixveldThe year at the yard that was earned from his unruly teenage-self actually transpired to be one of the most important periods of his life, learning invaluable lessons when it came to motivating the people running the day-to-day of every large operation, and understanding the importance of a team to the functionality of the business. “When you are working a blue-collar job you quickly see what motivates people and what does the opposite. Like when it was cold and windy and we were working on the slipway. The management team didn’t get there till 08:30, but we were there at 07:00. Between 7 and 8:30, nothing happened at that yard. I could also see people getting pay rises who weren’t necessarily the best at the job in the eyes of their colleagues, so that demotivated staff for months. When I started on my own, I was there early in the morning. Walking around, saying nothing, but being part of the team. I also paid everyone the same. This year in the yard was the best learning curve of my life.”&nbsp;Regardless of a valuable knowledge in the management of people from the top to the bottom, when Kommer bought the Damen shipyard in Hardinxveld from his father in 1969, it was certainly not an easy ride. In fact, it was quite the opposite… and entirely the fault of the young, strong-willed Kommer Damen. Kommer had an idea. Like a dog with a bone, he wouldn’t let it go. He firmly believed in making the boat building process more efficient. Faster, less expensive, and most importantly, with a better product at the end. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/50698/image/large-fd30ee2a58b6d5906b283f2bc8974a0b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/50698">The Damen family (L-R); Bear, Anneliese, Rose, Arnout and Kommer Damen&nbsp;Unwilling to shift the business in such a risky direction, the yards that his father and uncle owned together were split up, with his uncle and cousin taking two smaller yards, and Kommer and his father taking a large yard and carpentry business. “I officially joined the company in 1967,” he explains. “My father and uncle started with the idea of serial building, mostly building in modules in order to answer short delivery times. That idea, however, involved a lot of capital - which we didn't have. My father said it was too risky. After the split of the company, my father told me I could have the yard. By that he meant I could buy the yard. I had no money, so I ‘bought’ the yard and owed a lot of money to my father, who continued with the carpentry company.&nbsp;“I wanted to continue with the idea of serial boat building. But thinking of our staff, my father told me, ‘You cannot have all these people victim to your plans,’. So many left to work for my cousin. Now, I was left alone with an old yard, a debt to my father, six people and a good idea. A friend of a friend introduced me to the MD of Pon, the distributor of Caterpillar, and I went on to make a deal that changed the company. As long as I agreed to exclusively use CAT engines, I wouldn't have to pay them until one year following delivery. That was a huge help, and the start of Damen. The idea is still the same today: building standardised boats in a series and selling them out of the series. You have more focus on the development of a boat, you have lower production costs, you gain on labour hours, and you get a much better boat.”&nbsp;It’s amazing, really, that even when Kommer’s father clearly did not fully believe in the serial boat building business model (added to the fact he was proving to be a little bit of a wild card) he was still set on his son taking over at least a part of the family business. Clearly Kommer’s father - as well as his uncle - fully expected their sons to go into the family business. In this case, it paid off in the end (50 years later, Kommer Damen is now the fifth wealthiest man in the Netherlands), but as many failed family business owners can attest to, it could have easily gone differently.&nbsp;Maybe with his own youthful antics in mind, Kommer lead his business in a different way when it came to family. It was certainly not a requirement to enter the Damen Group, nor was it an open option. By the time his children were born, the Damen Group was already a huge animal - and it takes a certain set of skills to become that animal’s master. All on the board since 2008, it was in 2010 that his son Arnout Damen took the role of Chief Commercial Officer after founding Dutch maritime media group, Navingo. Annelies Damen manages the corporate properties portfolio, Bear Damen recently directed the company’s corporate film, and Rose Damen is Commercial Director at Amels. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/45817/image/large-9da74d5a9b2a24d9c45a35b23c3971e1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/45817">Amels Limited Editions 272, Here Comes the SunDid you always envision your children working in the business?KD: No. I always hoped they could work with the company, but I always told them that I do not want you to be the CEO if you can find a better one. I was very glad, however, that all of my children are very capable of being top managers at the company. To be the owner and top manager, I think, is a very lucky combination.&nbsp;RD:&nbsp;There were always hopes that we would enter the business, but yes, there was never any pressure to join. You were always very open about the company, so we all felt quite involved from a young age, anyway. I grew up hearing about business over dinners and holidays and basically all the time. It’s also a bit daunting: I have a father who has done very well. So if I don't do just as well… there’s a lot of pressure in that regard.Rose, when did you decide to enter the Damen Group?RD:&nbsp;In 2008, myself, my brother Arnout and my sister Anneliese joined the board of Damen as non-executive members. I worked for 8 years in finance before I joined. I remember asking myself, ‘what if I wake up in 10 years’ time and think what if?’. I didn’t want that. I rationalised that worst case scenario, I can still move back into finance. It was day two of working in the company that I kind of knew it was going to be a lot longer than that!What made you so sure?RD:&nbsp;As soon as I joined, I realised that working in your family’s business is very rewarding. It’s a real privilege. As a family member and a shareholder, you have a unique capability to connect with employees, clients and subcontractors. That is something I've been passionate about my whole life. It was also a great opportunity because Amels is almost a mini-Damen. I can be involved in everything from engineering to marketing, all the way to after-sales. The Amels yard is about 1.5 hours from headquarters where my father spends a lot of time, so I also have some distance from my family! Of course, we speak a lot anyway, but I report to the CEO who is non-family.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/15560/image/large-02fae8325c57dba5b46d5ad5f086a8c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/15560">The Damen Yacht Support Vessel&nbsp;GarçonKD: Even though I am semi-retired, I live very close to the yard. I cannot just sit there and wonder how it’s going. I like to be close to the business. As an active chairman, you have to orient yourself. See clients, other yachts, our products, suppliers… So I’m involved with the strategy of the company, but I try not to interfere in the day-to-day running.&nbsp;RD: You are very good at leaving a lot of freedom to the executive board and the people working on a daily basis in the business.Officially joining the team in 2015, it’s not just the distance that separates Rose from working every day with her immediate family members, but it’s also the sector. With the Amels yard purchased in 1991, today Amels is the only luxury yachting sector of the Damen Group and comprises 15% of the Group’s business. Although the Amels yard had already successfully delivered eight substantial custom superyachts between the years of 1985 and 1991, you would probably expect that upon takeover by the most passionate man in the world about production boat building, that the business would switch to building luxury yachts on spec out of a series.&nbsp;It may then come as a surprise to learn that Amels under Damen continued with custom superyachts for several years before speculative series building was introduced. Why? “We wanted the same idea in Amels as we did at Damen. We, of course, didn’t have enough capital for that and the banks refused to finance that idea, so we continued to build custom yachts which, in my opinion, is not a good business plan,” he states. “We had limited success financially until the Tigre d’Or range.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/35081/image/large-3e1e7108273d718123763230d7e53060.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/35081">The inaugural vessel of the Tigre d'Or range, now named SeahorseThe Tigre d’Or range was indeed a game changer for the Amels brand. Facilitated by a forward-thinking, innovator of an owner - Ian McGlinn - the 50-metre semi-custom range delivered six boats (the first of which was delivered in 1999 and now cruises under the name Seahorse), all designed by iconic designer Terence Disdale, and all built on the same platform. “The series was very successful,” he muses. “But I didn’t need proof that the model worked, I was already convinced. We needed the capital. Following this semi-custom success, we had enough capital ourselves and so we started the Limited Editions.”The Limited Editions range saw the inaugural superyacht, the Limited Editions 171 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/25" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Deniki52.3m (171'7&quot;)">Deniki</a>, designed by Tim Heywood and delivered in 2007. The following success has exceeded everyone’s expectations, shifting the focus of the previously custom-centred Amels, and reaffirming the advantages of Kommer’s favoured boat building business model for the second time in the company’s history. Last year, however, the Amels brand announced their first collaboration with Espen Oeino: a 78-metre fully custom superyacht set for delivery in 2021. So, now we’re back to custom yacht building at Amels, will there be more in the future?<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/49199/image/large-38416c1097bb57fcc9801e92de2fca98.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/49199">Read the full interview in the latest edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">subscribe now&nbsp;</a>to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

Garcon anchored off Monaco

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Seahorse cruising 

Amels Limited Edition 272 Here Comes The Sun

Kommer and Rose Damen

Amels Deniki anchored

The original Damen yard in Harnixveld

The Damen family at the yard: Bear Damen, Anneliese Damen, Rose Damen, Arnout Damen and Kommer Damen 

Kommer Damen: how one persistent man transformed an industry

Richard Raper on his love of Hoek yachts, sailing and the 39m Atalante

Richard Raper, the owner of the 38.5-metre Claasen sailing yacht Atalante, discusses his experience as a sailing yacht owner. 

It is not unusual, when speaking with yacht owners, to find that very few spend more than a few weeks a year aboard their yacht, even now when superyachts are able to double as home offices and many have impressive autonomous capabilities. One couple that bucks that trend however, are the owners of the 40-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a>, who enjoy, not a few weeks, but almost a week per month for the entire Mediterranean summer aboard their semi-custom <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>. We recently sat down with the owners to hear more about the customisations made to their yacht, including the embroidered panels made by a collective of Vietnamese women, their love of adventure and passion for cruising in Croatia. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181215/image/large-c194f92d6c46f8bb1d84ce81077ad125.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181215">Tell us about your history with yachts and how you came to build a superyacht?Husband: It all started with our love of being in nature. Being outside reminds us of our place in the world and being on the water is really the epitome of the outdoors experience – enjoying the day from sunrise to sunset, swimming in the sea and exploring hidden islands. That passion drove us to our first yacht charters more than 15 years ago aboard 55 foot motor yachts, but we were always disappointed that by 2pm captains and crew wanted to leave the anchorages and head into port.&nbsp;We didn't get into chartering to sit stern-to in marinas. We wanted to wake up in private bays and jump straight into the water, but the crew had other priorities – which we also understood. We realised that to really have that autonomy and to go where we wanted to go, we needed our own yacht, so in 2010 we bought a 26-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Yachts (Company)">Princess</a> in Croatia, which was the moment we met Captain Boris and Chief stewardess Nicky, who are still with us today.Wife: Croatia became our second love and really offered us everything we could want in a yachting destination. By 2016 we were spending weeks at a time aboard and that experience really taught us what we loved (and didn’t love), eventually leading to the decision to build our own dream yacht. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/112577/image/large-c7aa374fb8078904f134f0fc0589f639.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112577">So in 2017 you acquired an in-build semi-custom&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>&nbsp;Classic Supreme 132, later to become&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a>, can you share some of those unique customisations?Husband: For us the sundeck is the best place to be throughout the year, with the great views and best sunshine. Most superyachts feature an open sundeck, but because we start using the yacht in April and continue through to October, it can get windy and chilly so we decided instead to close the central section to create a protected area which is unique for this series. It’s been such a success because it made that deck a lot more versatile and usable, and with heaters inside you have a great spot to sit whatever the weather. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181246/image/large-1cb99dcb8ba2dc6b9894edbe6fcd7007.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181246">The second thing is that most yachts have at least one dining table on every deck, as well as in the main saloon, but for us this just seemed like an unnecessary use of space. We decided instead to use the middle deck as a sporty, fun space where we could play games with friends and entertain. We had a self-levelling pool table and a foosball table made, added a bar with beer taps and this is the space that we use all the time when onboard – whether it's just the two of us or we have friends and it is also loved by our charter guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181233/image/large-10201c7c7d050b0f815cdfc433b1f15b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181233">Did you have charter guests in mind when you were designing the yacht, particularly as you designed the interiors yourselves?Wife: It was our dream to create an active boat where we could have fun, so these choices were really personal decisions for us, but it happens that they are also loved by charter guests, especially because she is quite unusual. The most important thing for us was to create a space that felt like home, whereas most boats are fairly neutral in their interior design but we wanted to add our spirit to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181236/image/large-911583c9ebfedd2ab95c636e65639637.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181236">I worked hard on her design because it was important to create something visually beautiful, but that fit with our life. We spent a long time considering the material choices, to make sure she was robust enough to withstand quite a bit of use, but also so that the crew had an easy experience with the boat. We really didn’t want to come aboard and spend our time worrying about spilling things on the floor, so the balance between beauty and functionality was very important.Husband: The interior configuration is also very tailored to our lifestyle, with the formal main saloon and then the more informal and entertainment area above. We have also created a massage room on the middle deck and have two therapists within the crew.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181240/image/large-fc551d86e69603f996acf976f05f7b3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181240">Can you tell us a bit about the embroidery panels that adorn many of the spaces?Wife: I am half Vietnamese and I travel there often for work on a foundation that I run, alongside my husband. This embroidery technique is deeply embedded in Vietnamese culture and over the years I have much admired the artistry of the work. During one trip some years ago I visited the women who created these panels and spent some days with them learning about their craft and I was deeply inspired by their commitment to their work. It takes around 10 years to qualify in this technique, but if they want to create a face, it is another five years of training. This is something truly unique and I wanted to share this heritage with our friends and the charter guests, so perhaps they can also be inspired by this incredible work. And actually even the embroidery materials have been specially selected for their resilience to salty air to protect them while onboard the yacht!<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314699/image/large-fb768483a6ea8a39b4ee22c94c5a53a4.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314699">What does a normal day onboard&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a>&nbsp;look like for you and your guests? Husband: We really use every part of this yacht, moving from deck to deck throughout the day and even sitting on the observation foredeck when cruising at night and taking in the stars. We love to listen to classical music in the main saloon, and rock music on the middle deck, while the sundeck is where we spend most of our time. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181247/image/large-2a725a2994f7c682a170ed38bc4de39a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181247">We also have the full spectrum of tenders and toys, including a 12-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5733" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Technohull (Company)">Technohull</a> Explorer 40 tender with two Yamaha 425 hp engines that we tow behind the yacht. We decided to go for a proper tender so that we can explore hidden bays during the day, pick up guests from beaches safely and easily and tow wakeboards and water skis. We also have two of everything you could need for fun on the water; Jet Skis, e-foils, kayaks and eight bikes (just to name a few). As you can tell we really do love being outdoors and having fun, and all of these additional things are brilliant for charter guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181245/image/large-0f208dd0a2882fab6a4e2a84e62217e1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181245">If it isn’t clear from all of the above, the owners of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a> take real joy in their yacht, working closely with their crew of 15 years and spending as much time onboard as they can. Croatia is their top destination and the yacht spends her time when not in use in the port of Trogir near Split. If you want to find out more about <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a>, she is chartered exclusively with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>.&nbsp;This article is featured in&nbsp;Issue 49&nbsp;of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;You can find a full archive of all previous SuperYacht Times newspapers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper" target="_blank">here</a> and as a premium subscriber you can download archive editions at any time.&nbsp;

Happy Me yacht owner interview

Francesca Webster sits down with the owners of Happy Me, to hear more about what brings them joy aboard their yacht.

Owner insight: Croatia, customisations and the 40m Benetti superyacht Happy Me

It’s not often that you meet an owner aboard their yacht during a boat show. It is even less often that they’re happy to sit down and talk about their yacht. A clear exception to that rule is Beth Hamilton, owner of the 43-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Overmarine Group SPA (Company)">Overmarine</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6872" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanctuary42.3m (138'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2018">Sanctuary</a>, which Beth bought in the summer of 2022. Her first superyacht, Beth comes from the luxury hospitality industry and acquired <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6872" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanctuary42.3m (138'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2018">Sanctuary</a>, previously Eva. 4Eva, as a second offering to the spectacular villa she owns on the Greek island of Spetses. Elysian Villa, which is a stone’s throw from Spetses old harbour, was acquired by Beth five years ago and has since become one of the island's most coveted destinations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/313020/image/large-6bc0c2020f77489543e9ee9a0e469f6c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/313020">&nbsp;While she was a sailor in her youth, it wasn’t Beth’s grand ambition to necessarily own a yacht, she explains; “My USP is that I am the owner, and I am hugely passionate about the success of the client experience, and once clients realise that, they often want to have a direct connection with me. We offer a full service experience, so I organise everything from their helicopter transfers, VIP transfers through the airport, right through to organising the rest of their trip – which often transpired to be a yacht charter.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312506/image/large-c83618ad5f554b7e991688e1812ab12a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312506">It was this final element that eventually encouraged Beth to acquire a yacht of her own, so that she could offer clients the yacht, and guarantee the same level of service and excellence as she offered at the villa. The yacht was bought, therefore, with charter in mind and Beth felt she could bring a unique offering to the Greek charter sector from a hospitality perspective, while utilising the existing client base from the Elysian Villa.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/313022/image/large-0ab3f6ac6a4a5306e4901be12a06ca2f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/313022">Utilising her own experiences as a yacht charterer, and that of her friends and clients, Beth began to build a list of requirements and to understand what charter clients today are looking for. “Clients today are getting younger and younger, they are entrepreneurs, with young families and they want to experience adventure on their holidays. Of course we also have clients who want the beach club experience and we can deliver on that, but what we are offering is that bit of excitement. We also noticed that crew are vital to the success of a charter and so we worked hard to recruit each member ourselves.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312524/image/large-b4d3f08c227992d36d41dc8c0a0b153c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312524"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312522/image/large-f77c913d89e2ae222b8b4f6ab89f681e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312522">Beth originally worked in the recruitment sector, running her own business prior to the acquisition of Elysian Villa, so she knows people and how to find the best candidates for the yacht. Beth explained that every member of the crew had been hand selected for the yacht, a process that she oversaw personally. “For me, skills can be taught,” she explains, “I can teach them how to deliver the service we expect, but you cannot teach personality, character and empathy, and these are the skills that set crew members apart. Chartering is all about people. Good service doesn’t need to be stuffy and formal, and the experience we offer onboard is based on what I believe these clients are looking for.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312534/image/large-2388cf9055fac5cc451f09c9a71d0777.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312534">It is not only the crew that elevates the guest experience however. While touring the yacht, Beth showed a number of gifts that are offered to guests each night, totalling an impressive 25 during the course of a one week charter. Beth adds, “I am obsessed with hotels and resorts and over the years we’ve been collecting ideas from the best travel experiences we have had. Onboard Sanctuary we offer a selection of gifts that are unique to the guests – from Oakley sunglasses for the men, to a hair care kit for the women. It becomes part of the week and we often find guests talking about the nightly turndown service at dinner in the evenings.” &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312537/image/large-8f1cd648db841cfa12167a2ca0dbbb04.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312537">When it comes to the yacht herself, the interior spaces and variety of on deck areas were key to the decision process. Making minor amendments to the deck arrangements, particularly removing a large table from the upper aft deck, Beth has opened up the boat and ensured that there are plenty of versatile areas for guests to enjoy. The yacht has a unique foredeck infinity pool that is a particularly popular area when coming into a bay, plus she has been fully equipped with all of the latest tenders and toys. Beth has also acquired a 14-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anvera (Company)">Anvera</a> chase boat, which arrives this June, and which will support Sanctuary and offer another option particularly when taking guests on daily excursions to shore. The boat will also offer easier accessibility to older guests who sometimes struggle with boarding and disembarking from the superyacht at anchor. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312533/image/large-580240708ba27fde8ee4d22be73e1763.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312533">“When we were viewing yachts, we were looking for a particular feel. We wanted to find something that felt well built, bright and welcoming but also elegant and that could match the level of design that our guests from Elysian Villa expect. We toured a number of boats and some of them just felt cheap in terms of construction and interior outfitting. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6872" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanctuary42.3m (138'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2018">Sanctuary</a> is a good-looking yacht, with lovely lines and she is really quiet when underway which is very important.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312507/image/large-630ab3f17fea60d0e4920ae31dab631c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312507">When it comes to Beth’s personal experience as a yacht owner, the transition has been an interesting one, partly because she has faced some resistance to getting so involved in the management of her yacht. “I realise that I am an unusual owner, but having a good captain and a good charter manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> has been a huge benefit. If there is one thing you have to have it’s an honest relationship with your team and crew and only that will enable you to create a really exceptional charter experience for your guests.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312510/image/large-fffc176526a164db2e1cd415fdb9b3d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312510"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6872" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanctuary42.3m (138'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2018">Sanctuary</a> is chartered in Greece and her captain has a huge wealth of experience. On his time off he explores the islands with a depth gauge to find new bays and hidden locations and to ensure that Sanctuary can anchor there comfortably, meaning he can squeeze the yacht into the most unexpected places. She also carries a Michelin star trained Greek chef, who ensures that the guests are eating the best and most local food available. Coming back to the crew, Anna Granlund, Head of Charter Management at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> adds, “The crew is really the heart of this yacht. International and highly skilled, they work as a team and blend together really well, offering the guests a level of service that I have rarely experienced aboard a yacht.” To find out more about Sanctuary, reach out to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> who are managing her charters in Greece this summer. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312505/image/large-4bf1c97ae62033dabf132c5b763a9afa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312505">

Beth Hamilton Sanctuary yacht

We sit down with yacht owner Beth Hamilton to hear about her yacht Sanctuary.

Owner insight: Beth Hamilton and her 43m superyacht Sanctuary

Frédéric Jousset is a pioneer in technology and art and has crafted an enormously successful career spanning several decades. Yet, after reaching the summit of Mount Everest, the businessman sought more nautical endeavours - a philanthropic 46.5-metre catamaran dedicated to providing art and culture for public audiences. It is an inaugural idea in theory but one that Jousset has mastered. Having grown up with two parents anchored in the world of the arts: his mother, chief curator at Beaubourg, and his father, President of the GEFIP and the École normale de Musique de Paris, Frédéric Jousset turned his business expertise and privilege to craft a floating public gallery.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302657/image/large-6fdcd93b1405b865d072232b4ea3e556.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302657">As the world's preeminent aluminium sailing catamaran, <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> heralds a new era for the yacht builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> after its acquisition by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">The Italian Sea Group</a> in 2021. A floating gallery of culture, the curated catamaran embarks on a globetrotting two-year journey with a mission to cultivate unique artistic experiences. French architect Axel de Beaufort has lent his vision to the yacht’s internal and external design, crafting spaces where art and the oceanic landscapes converse.&nbsp;Ahead of her 2024 expedition, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4509" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYacht Times (Company)">SuperYacht Times</a> Digital Editor Emma Becque sat down with owner and businessman Frédéric Jousset to learn more about the inspiring <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>'s inception and riveting itinerary.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297395/image/large-ec63fb957d90f4d7630205e6d175d9da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297395">Please tell me a little about why you became interested in creating&nbsp;<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>…You have to go back to my childhood. I felt privileged in my education and exposure to the arts in Paris. My mum was a chief curator, and my father worked at the École Normale de Musique. Art and culture are part of my childhood; I see a big divide between art and social structure when I think objectively. If you look at those who frequent museums, the opera, and other artistic sectors, it is clear there is a disparity between those who have privilege and those who do not. It is not a question of money. Most of the museums are free. As I see it, art is a bit like religion. Unless it has been handed down to you, it can easily pass you by. For example, it is improbable a person would find a sudden kinship with the arts later in life if they had not been exposed as an adolescent. So, I wanted to disrupt this notion, bring art to everyone and change this system with <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>, an immersive way to view and experience art and culture.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293363/image/large-722c1744b5d1cc7a763bc5e9e8d861da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293363">Why did you want to launch this project at this particular time? &nbsp;I came to this realisation when I reached the age of 50. During this time, I climbed Mount Everest and reached the summit. With this accomplishment, I decided to work in philanthropy with a particular focus on the arts and culture sector. Rather than be a passive investor or sponsor, I wanted to stimulate interest in everyone, regardless of the background or education a person holds or the remoteness of their location. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293358/image/large-4c385daa104a01ecf56c0a71c738d4e2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293358">Is there a philanthropic offering for&nbsp;<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>?There are two parts to this: the art and the catamaran. I thought, OK, if I set up a contemporary art museum, it would only attract the typical audience and would not attract my targeted audience. I threw myself into extensive research and read many surveys, which resulted in me finding out that people only go to museums if they are nearby or travelling. Another revelation was learning how most visitors find public art spaces uninspiring; the ambience is quiet and stuffy, and it’s hard to digest information unless you are already educated in that particular art genre. It is this stationary setting that I wanted to disrupt, with my goal being to bring art to everyone and make it an exciting revelation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293357/image/large-17276d15c26599176b837b293cf687b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293357">The second aspect of this project was the development of a yacht. This idea came about when I sailed last year with a renowned Dutch sailor. This specific trip made me think, isn't there a way to combine my two passions for a greater good? With 60 percent of the world's population living near the shore, why not create an accessible sailing yacht to bring art to everyone? I realised nobody has ever thought to use the sea to convey art and culture. Building a $40 million museum would be anonymous, but I could generate traction if I built a superyacht. It was my core belief that this platform would be naturally in the spotlight of many different organisations. We got support from the European Union and a grant since this project is nomadic and will impact several countries. It is exciting to reach untapped audiences, including many generations and cultures, during such a time of technological advancements enabling yachts to be publicly enjoyed and chartered.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293345/image/large-ef4cf7175f62b425717afc2fa218d452.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293345">As this sort of project has never been done before, how did you go about finding designers for&nbsp;<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>?The design is intertwined with the philanthropic offering. We started with the design of the boat. An underscore of this project was to help with biodiversity; therefore, it had to be a sailing yacht. Due to the number of people it had to hold, it subsequently had to be a catamaran - they offer significant amounts of space, and their draught means they can go pretty much anywhere. In my opinion, super luxury catamarans are the future of yachting. The big sailing catamarans offer the same light, space, and volume, making them more efficient while not sacrificing aesthetics.Regarding her design, we organised a big competition for which we received numerous applications from naval architects and designers. Axel de Beaufort was the most convincing, thanks to his timeless design combining elegant wood, solar panels, and curved glass. Once we had a designer, we found the shipyard and ended up with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a>. Initially, we were meant to work with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6292" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Admiral Yachting (Company)">Admiral Yachts</a>, but ultimately were lucky enough to collaborate with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> just before they were bought. This ensured me this would be a classical Renaissance heritage vessel to last a lifetime.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293337/image/large-d360021258b82cd7774a848aaa8d2de9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293337">Can you outline the planned itineraries for&nbsp;<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>, detailing the exhibitions and unique destinations you aim to showcase?<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> is a dedicated vessel where members of the public are invited to come onboard for free. Accommodating up to 40 people, visitors can expect to experience a unique interplay with art, culture and a sensory touch point with nature. For example, when stepping onboard the fantastic film ICONS by the Louvre Museum will transport those onboard through history.&nbsp;Within this same experience, visitors will be blindfolded as they step outside onto the expansive aft deck. Their lack of sight will enable them to embrace various soundscapes, including animal and native sounds, to create a truly visceral experience. The experience continues even when leaving the yacht. &nbsp;Visitors are encouraged to wear 3D virtual glasses, catapulting them into different worlds, such as historical Mediterranean terrain, ancient pyramids, the Alps, paintings, and sculptures. From 6pm onwards, the <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> event showcases live performances and dances within an agora on land. This unique experience can be enjoyed across various destinations, making it unforgettable and a remarkable way to interact with art and culture.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293335/image/large-c2f019eb1c465e255af9f2b8a1e4a3dc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293335">Will there be opportunities to charter&nbsp;<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&nbsp;</a>for private clients and events?<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> will begin her journey in 2024 in Malta on the 3rd of March, then in Italy for The Venice Biennale in the second week of April. She will then be in Cannes for The Cannes Film Festival in May, and finally, my team and I will be in Marseille for her big launch.One way to finance this wonderful project is through chartering. <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> can now be chartered by private companies and guests with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>. Throughout July and August in the Mediterranean and then for winter sun in St Barths from December to January. What is interesting about <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> is her agile versatility. Thanks to her impressive transformative walls, we can easily convert the yacht's internal spaces from an immersive museum to an impressive cinema projection of 200-square-metres high-definition cinema.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293309/image/large-533c08b4d04a1fd659d38162fe050adc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293309">What were the challenges in obtaining the rights and complying with copyright laws for the artworks and projects aboard&nbsp;<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>?We didn’t have any copyright laws to contend with. It is more logistics in terms of travel than the content onboard. We partner with several museums and institutions who kindly lend objects and pieces to us for the bespoke experience on offer to the public. The most recent challenges we faced have been around the war. For example, the Israel and Arabic conflict meant we had to change our travel itinerary. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293306/image/large-636189921b4c11b816e755f542b57c11.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293306">With&nbsp;<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>'s dual role, how will you balance allocating private and public spaces within the yacht?Whenever <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> reaches a new destination, I will be there for the opening night. In terms of personal use, I will charter her for two weeks, ideally out of the twelve weeks available; with that being said, I will pay the total commercial price, given she is part of the foundation. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293303/image/large-24b0deb2b0f78b6e326163b9bf48e9f5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293303">What factors led you to select a catamaran sailing yacht for this unique art endeavour?Evidently, with the yacht being used for numerous people, there had to be two large hulls. The catamaran form enables <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> to reach harbours while maintaining stability as a public space that will welcome hundreds of people daily. I also have to mention that I truly wanted a catamaran in the current climate. In terms of the yachting sector and when working closely with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">The Italian Sea Group</a> on <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>, I can foresee that the super luxurious catamarans are the industry's future. Look at the private jet industry, where activism is rife. Yacht designs must find new ways to maximise space without far less environmental impact - luxurious catamarans can do this. The large sailing catamarans offer the same light, accommodation and connection with the water but with little footprint compared to their motor yacht counterparts. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293301/image/large-38cf31eb4000f7fe2b2aafb32ff6fd34.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293301">The&nbsp;<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&nbsp;</a>Festival in 2024Exciting opportunities to get up close and personal with <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> will feature at this year's <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> festival, which contains an eclectic programme of exhibitions, performances, virtual reality immersions, speeches, film screenings, and concerts.&nbsp;As well as hosting exhibitions in the quayside exhibition pavilions, the ArtExplorer festival will showcase "Present", an immersive film experience on board the museum boat that aims to pay tribute to female figures in Mediterranean civilisations, which can be viewed on the aft deck.&nbsp;This year's ports of call for the museum boat include Valletta, Malta from 21-31 March; Venice, Italy from 17-23 April; and Marseille, France from 6-18 June.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293294/image/large-6f64fc1d31345d3e4c5e93488eec86c8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293294">

Interview with Frédéric Jousset

Emma Becque sits down with Frédéric Jousset, owner of the radically different, floating gallery and superyacht, ArtExplorer.  

Owner interview: Designing ArtExplorer with Frédéric Jousset

Mariacristina Rapisardi and her&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a>&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a>&nbsp;have braved the most testing waters in the world, Francesca Webster found out more.It is rare to find a sailing yacht owner that bucks the trend and chases the frigid adventures of the furthest poles. It is even rarer to see the elegant lines of a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> braving the ice and cruising amongst killer whales and polar bears, that is, however, par for the course for the owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a>, the 34.25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Huisman</a> yacht built in 1994. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297585/image/large-e4a00ff58cc9ad421505a5a664e038ca.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297585">Mariacristina Rapisardi is far from your ‘normal’ superyacht owner. Descended from a long line of mariners, the Italian lawyer has been a sailor from childhood, racing across Lake Como as a girl and owning a nine-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5255" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dufour/Locwind (Company)">Dufour</a> by the age of 10. By her late teens, Mariacristina had upscaled, owning two Sweden Yachts’ before her mid-twenties. Even from those earliest days, she was christening her sailing yachts Billy Budd.Named after a character from the eponymous Herman Melville book who was sentenced to hang from the mast for accidentally causing the death of a fellow crewman, Mariacristina was deeply inspired by the story as a teenager. “It symbolises the deep contradiction between law and justice,” she explains, “I first read the book when I was 18 and I think by then I already knew I was destined to be a lawyer. All of my yachts have been named Billy Budd, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Huisman</a> is the fourth.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297584/image/large-ec43f6a2a2498c2feab75c8cc345c134.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297584">With a great passion for the water, years were spent sailing yachts across the Mediterranean with her husband, children and often a dog by her side. A chance encounter with the infamous yacht owner, adventurer and author Skip Novak at a ski lodge in Courmayeur, however, sparked a hidden interest in the polar regions. The two sailors shared an immediate connection and it wasn’t long before they’d planned a joint charter to the Arctic onboard Novak’s Ice Class sailing yacht Pelagic. Then in 2003 they attempted the Northwest Passage, but failed due to the packed ice. By then, however, a passion for the region and the determination to sail the Passage had firmly taken root.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/278498/image/large-7b3dd43ae385e875cde8683d329dc23f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/278498">In 2004 it was time to upgrade her yacht once again and she set about the search for a vessel that could take on more intense conditions, specifically to cruise outside of the Mediterranean. The first yacht she built was the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> 72 Billy Budd, an ideal family yacht with a credible lineage and a solid construction that could take on more adventurous journeys. She ruffled feathers at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> shipyard in Ipswich by requesting a wood burner in the main saloon, putting her foot down when the team suggested it was impossible; the yacht remains the only <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> to feature a burner onboard.&nbsp;Aboard the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> Mariacristina and her family travelled both north and south, circumnavigating the world with friends and relatives. But by 2009 she had reached the comfort limit for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> and the Northwest Passage was once again knocking at her door, it was time to upgrade. In order to take on the Passage and cruise polar waters where the risk of being stuck in ice was a reality, she knew she needed an aluminium hull, and when she saw the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Saudade</a> it all fell into place.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/278497/image/large-90dd9d93858a29cff2c3ee9a27545bfb.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/278497">“She is a magnificent yacht, a true luxury superyacht first and foremost and an ideal boat for cruising with family and friends. Before we bought her, she’d enjoyed circumnavigations and years in the Mediterranean. She has a huge interior, is comfortable and most importantly, is technically very solid. Big bonuses for me are her dorades which, while aesthetically traditional, mean there is a lovely flow of air down below, she also had a good engine and generator and had been well maintained.”After buying the yacht, and customarily rechristening her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a>, Mariacristina set about a number of minor alterations to prepare the vessel for the Arctic and Antarctic. The second water tank was replaced with a fuel tank, the instruments were upgraded and vitally, all were built into individual circuits. She explains, “I had experienced a situation in Norway where one of the instruments froze up in the cold and because the entire system was interconnected, everything stopped working. We simultaneously lost our satellite, electronic charts and navigational equipment – that was a lesson you don't forget! Since then I ensure that all the electronics run independently and Skip Novak does the same with his yachts today.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297580/image/large-c656e6034c7ee26ae9d5dc470f7491ec.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297580">Aside from the installation of heaters, a heavyweight anchor and the construction of a viewing platform on the main mast to keep an eye on the ice, very little else needed to be done to the yacht. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Huisman</a>’s vessels are renowned for their excellence of construction, and the boat itself was sound. “The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Huisman</a> has a classic long bow and she cuts through the water beautifully, which is important in the polar regions where the ocean can get incredibly rough. One of the most attractive things about the yacht has always been her seaworthiness, first and foremost she is an excellent sailing yacht and while we’ve spent much time in the north, she is a wonderful world cruiser.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297581/image/large-3ce15960b8d0d5d3d3c06dd9b499adf9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297581">Mariacristina has built a reputation internationally for her love of the Arctic (an Italian journalist coining her ‘La Signora del Ghiaccio’), and her favourite place in the world is the desolate and icebound Devon Island in Northern Canada. Her family, however, are more excited about the warmer climes of the Mediterranean and so <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a> will spend the summer months cruising the coasts of Italy and Greece.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297578/image/large-b62b2ee2bee1700bb4966e9bf9222018.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297578">&nbsp;“I have 10 grandchildren and we manage to host them all aboard the yacht in the summer, it is a wonderful experience. We put four children in each of the guest staterooms and my husband and I are in the master suite to the stern. We have had so many wonderful times cruising together, exploring the Greek islands and having convivial evenings together onboard. All of the children have been organising the holidays for the upcoming summer and love to be onboard with their families.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297577/image/large-d7986079f4ccda235b672d3cf3003d54.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297577">Despite the evident love for the yacht, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a> is now on the market, and Mariacristina and her husband are looking to find something smaller and more manageable to sail together alone. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a> is a great family boat and has been a perfect yacht to take on all of our adventures, but it is time for us to downsize to something that we can cruise without crew,” she explains. “I want to take the helm and set off at will, and of course, I want to spend more time exploring the Arctic, for me it is the best place in the world!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297582/image/large-7ef66704b140b844f0cf731782790fb5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297582">When it comes to what's next, she explains, “I never go without a boat, so when <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a> looks to be selling, we will find the next one,” and from my brief conversation with her it was clear that Mariacristina without a boat would be like a fish without water! The new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> 745 looks like a hot contender, so if you are cruising in the coming years and see an <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> named Billy Budd passing by, you’ll know you have just passed the famous Lady of the Ice!This article is featured in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" target="_blank">SuperYacht Times</a>&nbsp;newspaper. <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe now</a> to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

The Lady of the Ice: Mariacristina Rapisardi on her sailing yacht Billy Budd II

Mariacristina Rapisardi and her Royal Huisman Billy Budd have braved the most testing waters in the world, Francesca Webster found out more.

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“When I first chartered <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> (ex Happy Day) with our family two years ago, I immediately appreciated her timeless elegance,” explained <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II’s</a> owner. The 31.62-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> motor yacht boasts the classic <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> silhouette, with a modern interior design, which oozes opulence and sophistication.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280521/image/large-1e67af0f6611c7597719cf057280136d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280521"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> was delivered in 1969 from Italy and features exterior design and naval architecture from her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>. With 180 GT of interior volume, space onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a>&nbsp; has been optimised to allow guests to live in ultimate luxury.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280535/image/large-ce5ae9eb50d5fcccc15067e76b5af94a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280535">“I wanted a boat that would bring me back to the way of travelling of the past, yet with a contemporary feel. One quality that drew me to this particular <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> was the finish of her interiors, the warm oak wood, rather than the very classical mahogany,” her owner added. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> underwent an extensive refit in 2023 under the direction of interior designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anouska Hempel (Company)">Anouska Hempel</a>, with inspiration coming from her own 27.13-metre gulet Beluga One.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280538/image/large-bc1992e76b9442fb532eceeaa8604fa9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280538">“I have already collaborated with her on another project and absolutely love every aspect of her style. I wanted to incorporate the striking black details, the vintage trunks and leather baskets, her signature lampshades and black screens, and many of the exotic details that transport the viewer to far away places.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280537/image/large-20cb682fd672cad80ad561691434f603.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280537"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> exudes an air of elegance reminiscent of classic canoe-stern yachts, while offering all of the amenities of the latest superyacht. Her interior design has been carefully crafted with a ‘Beluga-esque’ style, while providing her with her own individual style that emulates refinement and grandeur.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291986/image/large-897408ac4a6aa3ec137b2e85516b18ee.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291986">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> is wonderfully unique, her design is where East meets West and I always enjoy playing with this cross over or cultures, history and design,” explained designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anouska Hempel (Company)">Anouska Hempel</a>. “ You have the traditional classical elements of truly beautiful Italian style with the folding in of discipline of an Asian influence. The symbiosis of both and the balance between the two make <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> truly magical.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280546/image/large-7a97e55932045e531e4ecb4defd0d7db.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280546"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> features a unique interior design that is coherent across each deck to portray tranquillity and relaxation. “The bird motif is a recurring theme throughout the design of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> and is best described as a crane that tries to free itself from the canvas by tearing it with its beak. I found it extremely poetic and inspiring for a family that wishes to travel with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> all around the world,” commented her owner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280536/image/large-5086db271d1a776da49d1d2cc298fcd4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280536">“The contrast of textures, the lighting, the balance of light and dark, it is all a dance, and it is so important that the balance is considered and correct. Materials, textures, light and dark are of the utmost importance,” remarked <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anouska Hempel (Company)">Anouska Hempel</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280566/image/large-5d74ee44ed3421e3b4eb155c2a149129.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280566"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280564/image/large-f6f1391c0e6c8a38dcafcab9ec757415.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280564">With a four stateroom configuration, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> can accommodate up to 10 guests, with each stateroom appointed in a similar style. Her master stateroom is located on the upper deck and benefits from direct access to the aft exterior lounge. A second master suite is situated forward on the lower deck, and she also features a VIP double and twin stateroom to aft. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280533/image/large-a1967e2b66ffe6d8f8594aa9919aaa43.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280533"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280532/image/large-da7cd314a7acce5da72adbc0d04efb36.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280532"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280528/image/large-651ac78f7d0fa7dfca861d9bb035431f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280528">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> features a wonderfully eclectic mix of drill, cane, Japanese screens, tassels, sudare blinds, herringbone tape, Louis Vuitton trunks, library lights and coolie shades,” commented Anouska Hempel. “Every material and texture is indicative of the crossover of the Italian classical style into simplicity and elegance – which is styled within an inch of its life!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280571/image/large-6cb33ab5ed11b0b249a5d56f0a18020d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280571"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> offers a range of exterior spaces which allow guests to bask in the sun and enjoy the yacht’s surroundings. “She has four different decks, with each one characterised by a different use,” explained her owner. “We use the upper sun deck for yoga in the morning, sunbathing with the best view during the day and it becomes an outdoor cinema for the kids at night.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280569/image/large-db35f6d057bc7a4fc5b1ee4aa0d2108c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280569"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280567/image/large-2bb26cc01dd5450394ef8af867855617.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280567">The forward deck of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> is perfect for a sunset aperitivo, while her circular lounge area on the aft deck is better suited to larger alfresco gatherings. “I wanted to create a large indoor dining area, as our family loves to cruise in the winter months,” elucidated her owner. “This allows us to live on the boat just as much indoors as outdoors, thus making <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> a floating house for our family all year round!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/292040/image/large-9a3dc34f2e662a4d3fcf805f2179c510.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/292040">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Volvo Penta (Company)">Volvo Penta</a> engines which propel her to a top speed of 13 knots and a cruising speed of 11.5 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280568/image/large-04c4c8c0f21ae02d6a4b069d710240c9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280568">“I have worked with the owners on their wonderful private residence in Lugano, they are wonderful clients and friends and we have been working together for years. The intention was to pull inspiration from my boat the Beluga and transform this beautiful <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>, with her lovely hull into a glorious statement gliding through the ocean. the result is a daring, different and delightful yacht, which is timeless and tantalising,” concluded <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anouska Hempel (Company)">Anouska Hempel</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291987/image/large-cb1bcba39d8d594adcfdc13cf0d8e882.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291987" 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;"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> is currently available for charter with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hill Robinson (Company)">Hill Robinson</a>. This article is featured in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-46" target="_blank">46th edition</a>&nbsp;of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe now</a>&nbsp;to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

Meet the owner: Historic Benetti yacht Sounion II

SuperYacht Times sat down with the owner and designer of  Sounion II yacht.

From refit to refinement: Onboard the 32m Benetti yacht Sounion II

First announced in 2022, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco yacht stands as a testament to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef Yachts</a>' commitment to eco-conscious yachting, without compromising on luxury. The 24.4-metre catamaran boasts a sleek and contemporary design, powered by renewable energy sources and is equipped with the latest in sustainable technology, including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a>’s signature solar skin. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280754/image/large-99266e5cfc391fa221aeab0fefcad355.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280754"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> is the newest <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco yacht to join the growing fleet. Launched as the third hull in the series, she joins her sisterships <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10963" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marie-Joseph23.87m (78'4&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2022">Marie-Joseph</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12967" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zeahorse23.87m (78'4&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Zeahorse</a> as a shining example of luxury and sustainability, co-existing in perfect harmony. SuperYacht Times joined her owner, designers, and sales representatives onboard for her launch event last month, surrounded by the owner’s friends and family.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284280/image/large-3695a9f6e9482e8fa801cfa26fd63eb4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284280">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> is a home away from home,” described her owner. “She offers sustainable luxury while sailing in silence, and that’s what really attracted me to the model.” As an avid sailor from his mid-30s, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a>’s owner wanted more space than his 13-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6072" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lagoon Yachts (Company)">Lagoon</a> 45 yacht. “We love sailing and as a family we spent more than a year living on the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6072" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lagoon Yachts (Company)">Lagoon</a> boat with our dog, crossing the Atlantic and exploring the Caribbean.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284272/image/large-4bd983b2a0a10969590b7c4a4386348a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284272">“On our previous yacht we discovered that on a sunny day we hardly had to use the motor or the generator, which we enjoyed as we were able to sail in silence. We soon needed a bigger space to accommodate everyone onboard and that’s when we fell in love with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a>’s concept of achieving sustainable luxury with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco.”<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a>’s owner worked with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Consult (Company)">Yacht Consult</a> in the purchase of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco yacht. The company was able to use their comprehensive expertise as not only sellers, but as experienced sailors to monitor the transfer every step of the way.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284260/image/large-cc4a42f91888f5d7d12fd9f973663d28.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284260">“We first met with the owner in Belgium during our presentation of the Sunreef 60 sailing yacht Valentine,” expressed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Consult (Company)">Yacht Consult</a> Sales Manager, Wouter Vanderelst. “About a month later the deal was made for the new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco and the final contract was signed two months later during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4556" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival (Company)">Cannes Yachting Festival</a>.”“The idea that the yacht sails in true silence and is eco-friendly was a key factor for the owner in choosing a new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco model,” added Wouter. Described by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef Yachts</a> as an eco-responsible luxury craft, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco yacht combines electric propulsion with reliable sailing performance and expansive living spaces.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284271/image/large-9df79b0cca96be54f8e050c80ebc1e5d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284271">The fully customisable catamaran offers infinite décor possibilities and each model has been designed to suit the needs of its owner. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> features interior design from Belgium-based design house <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="BALO Design (Company)">BALO Design</a>, which have created a tranquil and coastal feeling onboard.&nbsp; <iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/862329796?share=copy" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe> “In the past, we had already worked with superyacht owners to help give their boats a personal touch onboard. We were introduced to the owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Consult (Company)">Yacht Consult</a> to create a unique interior for this new yacht,” explained Bart Lodewijckx, founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="BALO Design (Company)">BALO Design</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284259/image/large-b146568fbd6b4120d83fdf32f600530d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284259">“After the technical floor plans and design of the vessel were finalised, we visited the shipyard to choose all the materials and colours for the fixed and structural elements. These decisions are an important guideline for our design team before they can create the overall mood of the yacht, regarding furniture and lighting.”The interior of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> has been designed as a haven of comfort, offering a luxury beach house on the water vibe. Her interior effortlessly blends nautical elegance with coastal chic to create clean lines and a minimalistic decor style. The use of a neutral colour palette also establishes a timeless and refined ambiance, eschewing any sense of ostentation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284261/image/large-f625b9167954959335ab82d539db081a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284261">“On numerous international yachts, you will find shiny materials, dark wood, and exaggerated fabrics. A beach house feeling on the contrary has the aim to get an instant relaxed feeling once you arrive,” described Bart Lodewijckx.“A palette of neutral tones was the base to design this vibe, with a balanced mix of rich fabrics and the right selection of high-end furniture pieces, to help finetune this idea. The light colours also make the interior look spacious and relaxed to live in.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284254/image/large-7750a2b8d8b904d87a8403f336808534.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284254">“We enjoy the idea of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> being a boat that highlights sustainable luxury,” explained her owner. “Although she is a luxury yacht, she uses sustainable techniques to create a more eco-friendly experience onboard.”“The high-end international brands we work with, are consistently improving their purchase and production processes. This helps to reduce their environmental footprint and increase their sustainability, resulting in furniture that will last longer, is easier to maintain and remains aesthetically pleasing,” added Bart Lodewijckx.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284251/image/large-36bdc9b77632b8060952d398016fe110.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284251"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> has been designed to host family and friends, which is why the main deck saloon has an abundance of lounging and dining space. Guests can relax on her sumptuous sofa, all while taking in the breathtaking views from her expansive windows. The use of fine woods, elegant furnishings, and soft lighting enhances the overall ambiance of the space.&nbsp;"<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> is truly the most beautiful <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 I've seen, with a high level of attention to design features and details,” added Manu Deceuninck, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Consult (Company)">Yacht Consult</a>. “You can see that the owner was involved in every decision, as even the napkins are beautiful!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284252/image/large-de6d26f580f39b08156e042118a44afd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284252">As well as enjoying a beautifully curated interior, guests onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> are able to embrace oceanic surroundings, thanks to versatile and engaging outdoor areas. The highlight is her flybridge, which provides a panoramic vantage point for guests to take in the stunning vistas. This elevated space offers additional seating, sun loungers, and even a wet bar, making it the perfect place for sunbathing and enjoying refreshments.“When you look at the layout and the furniture used on the flybridge, you can see that it is not the standard layout, but a cosy and lounge feeling has been achieved, so for sure not a 'one-in-a-row' feeling,” added Manu Deceuninck. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284274/image/large-a953520787a12d372e2cb73b5beb6feb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284274">The foredeck of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> has been meticulously designed to offer a unique blend of relaxation and functionality. The primary feature of the space is her plush padded sunpads and forward-facing seating area, which enables guests to top up their tans. The raised tables allow guests to enjoy meals from a picturesque setting, all while remaining immersed in the soothing atmosphere around them.Despite all of this, the main feature of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> is her ultramodern solar power system covering a total area of 164 square-metres. The panels have been integrated with various composite structures of the yacht including the mast, boom, superstructure and hull sides. “I chose a distinctive grey metallic colour for her hull because not only does it reflect the water and the sun, but it better integrates her solar panel design,” explained her owner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284280/image/large-3695a9f6e9482e8fa801cfa26fd63eb4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284280">While under sail, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco recovers energy from the passive motion of the two propellers, thanks to an advanced hydro generation system. The energy obtained is used to power both the electric propulsion and house appliances.The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco yacht is fitted with a state of the art, ultralight battery bank that is around 30 percent lighter than the average batteries used in the nautical industry. With a density of less than 5.2kg/ kWh, they have been developed with weight efficiency and performance in mind. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280753/image/large-bd11d66140d2670d44e59af4a0d2c8b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280753">“For us, luxury flows down into the smallest details. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> is spacious, luxurious and bright and offers excellent service from her crew. She offers a five-star service to everyone who steps onboard, but most of all, she is ready to seek out a lot of beautiful sunsets and adventures,” concluded Bart Lodewijckx.

Onboard the 24m Sunreef 80 Eco yacht Apollo 99

SYT takes a closer look onboard the 24m Sunreef 80 Eco yacht Apollo 99, following her launch event in August.

Apollo 99: A closer look at the 24m Sunreef 80 Eco yacht with her owner and designers

The 40.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuic Nautika D.O.O (Company)">Nuic Nautika</a> motor sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> has been launched. The gulet yacht began construction in 2022 in Croatia and has been designed for the avid sailor Spiro Rakuljic, who we interviewed for the SuperYacht Times newspaper. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuic Nautika D.O.O (Company)">Nuic Nautika</a> and boasts a luxurious contemporary interior design. She offers a six stateroom configuration for up to 12 guests, consisting of a full-beam master suite located forward on her lower deck. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284394/image/large-41b4ef2014c56ff0f0fbe9a63c377700.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284394">Her remaining guest staterooms include a VIP suite starboard, two double staterooms and two convertible twins. She also has accommodation on the lower deck for a crew of eight. Key amenities onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> include a sea water pool on the main deck aft, a bar, Jacuzzi and open-air cinema lounge on the sun deck. She can also carry a selection of water toys and accessories including two Seabobs, two e-foils, a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4162" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Manta Maritime (Company)">Manta</a> Jet Surf and a water slide.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284413/image/large-7de842d47500fcd27e05c7e2f591ed36.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284413"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284420/image/large-466e272757e7c646f73c501a89d53121.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284420">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1483" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cummins Inc. (Company)">Cummins</a>engines, which provide her with a cruising speed of nine knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284392/image/large-76e1e4c87a27c7fa8dd7c7e25438bb75.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284392">Spiro Rakuljic’s family has been involved in the maritime industry for decades, building a fleet of mini ‘cruise vessel’ motor yachts in the Adriatic. He is now building his first private yacht, the 40.3-metre motor sailer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a>, so we sat down with Spiro to find out more about this new venture and to discover why the family is moving into the private charter business.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284398/image/large-f3bbf7d52b850f83821f0d0911cefbce.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284398"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284402/image/large-9ad54a21a7089478b18dcafd8d75ed4d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284402">How has nautical tourism grown over the years and when did you first get involved?&nbsp; Tourism began to grow in the Adriatic from around the mid-70s and the traditional wooden boats that were once used to export fruit were used to transport travellers to the islands. It was around this time that our family brough one of the largest wooden ships on the Adriatic, named it <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a>, after the grandmother, and began to reconstruct it.By 2020, our family had the largest fleet of mini cruise ships on the Adriatic. As a result of the coronavirus, we decided to focus on the market of smaller luxury yachts with six cabins for up to 12 guests, as there was a real lack of them on the Adriatic. It also forces us to extend the build time of the new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> to the 2023 season. We’re really looking forward to finally showing her to the world.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284403/image/large-ce85b1ed046fe764be4afb810d6c211e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284403"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284401/image/large-95276ebd668e171ed14eb00b0d8fbed4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284401">Can you tell me about the design of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a>, why you chose to build a motorsailer, who are the designers behind the project?We wanted to make a green transition with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> and a motorsailer seemed the right choice. The morning burin and afternoon mistrals – warm winds that blow during summer months in Croatia – also make for fantastic sailing. And with her sails unfurled <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> will take full advantage!The project is a collaboration between our family, Croatian naval architect Promardesign, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuic Nautika D.O.O (Company)">Nuić Nautika</a>, who were responsible for her construction. We were involved at every stage as we have extensive knowledge in shipbuilding, sailing, and the requirements to enhance the passenger experience and facilitate the vessel's management for the crew.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284414/image/large-259dd5ceec0c8feea88032387f85dbd4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284414"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284405/image/large-a8d2d07434722846381bd7fc14f548e8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284405">What is your goal with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a>, how do you see her fitting in with the broader fleet?We’re going to revolutionise the Croatian charter market with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> and propel our company to new heights of shipbuilding excellence. At 40-metres in length <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> is the ideal size and she features many distinctive features. She offers a perfect balance of comfort and convenience for guests and crew alike, and has been designed to navigate even the smallest and most secluded ports and bays that larger vessels cannot access, giving our clients an unparalleled and authentic experience.&nbsp;We are confident that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> will redefine the standard for luxury charters in the region and leave an indelible mark on our clients' memories.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284411/image/large-b916cfdc807e380e78fa81a3c8a411f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284411"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284409/image/large-9cc09f6bb4ff196a3cd79f1ffc8ca69e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284409">Can you share some of the yacht’s top features?The allure and need of being near the sea has never been stronger for charter clients, and Anetta has distinguished herself as the only luxury motorsailer in Croatia to introduce this innovative concept of living close to the sea. She has a beach club with a seawater swimming pool on the stern area that connects to the swim platform, creating extra open-air leisure space for charter guests to enjoy.&nbsp;She also has a large sundeck with a hot tub, open-air cinema and lounges. Notwithstanding her extensive list of water toys which includes a custom-made water slide.Numerous modern design features are integrated throughout her interior as well; her cabins exemplify the modern concept of open space, with bathrooms separated from the sleeping area by a glass wall that can be instantly blurred at the push of a button. Each cabin is also equipped with a smart room system, allowing the guests to customise the music, air conditioning and lighting. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284397/image/large-c3e83578da41f12b99c5850b19822123.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284397">As an owner/captain, you must have an extensive knowledge of cruising in Croatia, what do you think makes the region so special for sailing and cruising?The Croatian Adriatic Coast is unique, boasting a well-developed shoreline and a plethora of islands. Charterers can easily anchor in different bays and dock that are within just a few nautical miles of each other. There are many bays and harbours on both the south and north side of the island to explore. It’s a place of great diversity.Croatia has also undergone significant developments over the past decade. Many options now complement luxury yacht charter vacations, such as Michelin-star restaurants, luxurious villas/resorts, beach clubs – all conveniently situated on either the shore or nearby islands.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284421/image/large-65aaf691b1c96a5eca48bd3660843214.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284421">How does <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> fit within the Croatian history of yacht construction?Croatian shipbuilding is characterised by its competitiveness in terms of quality compared to Western European shipyards and pricing compared to East European shipyards. We embody this construction philosophy of building robust vessels with a high-quality finish that are easy to maintain –&nbsp;and Anetta is our flagship.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> showcases that Croatian shipbuilding can produce high-quality and luxurious products at a competitive price. Thanks to Croatia’s entry into the EU and Schengen, the Adriatic Sea is becoming increasingly attractive to foreign investors, which has prompted us to take over a small failed shipyard near Split. Together with our business partners, we are investing in the construction of a new production facility and travel lift for building and refitting vessels similar or larger than <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284422/image/large-ecbd8c8b3d872a4e1f6facc6d8d5106d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284422">What are your plans with the yacht once she is launched?We anticipate delivering <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> in mid-May, enabling us to complete the interior furnishing and carry out the necessary test drives ahead of our first charter in July. We are confident that the season will be a success thanks to our partner and charter central agency <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht IN (Company)">YACHT IN</a>. We look forward to introducing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> to the charter market and will do our best in providing our guests with a memorable experience through our attention to detail and exceptional service.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284395/image/large-8f3f8a719b1d5c05210829515f4ded49.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284395">

Owner interiview sailing yacht Anetta launched

The 40m Nuic Nautika motor sailing yacht Anetta has been launched. SYT spoke to her owner Spiro ahead of her launch to find out more.

Owner Spiro Rakuljic on the newly launched 40m sailing yacht Anetta

Francesca Webster sat down with Jim Glidewell, serial yacht owner and lover of Alaska, to find out more about his life with yachts.I joined Jim Glidewell aboard his 58-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/106" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Trinity Yachts, LLC (Company)">Trinity</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unbridled58.22m (191'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2009">Unbridled</a> at Rybovich Marina during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/164" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palm Beach International Boat Show - 2023">Palm Beach International Boat Show</a> this March. It was the second time I had the pleasure of meeting Jim, having first interviewed him under the same circumstances a year before, at that time to discuss his experience of yacht brokerage firm <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>, with whom he’d recently acquired the yacht. During this meeting however, it was Jim himself that was the topic of discussion.&nbsp;A highly successful businessman with a Dentistry empire and over 5,000 employees, Jim is a force to reckon with. Over the decades his love of yachting has led to the acquisition of more than 12 yachts, and he currently owns two other superyachts in addition to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/106" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Trinity Yachts, LLC (Company)">Trinity</a>, the 39.62-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/217" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Westport Yachts (Company)">Westport</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serengeti39.62m (129'12&quot;)Westport Yachts2002">Serengeti</a> and the 39-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/610" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northcoast Yachts (Company)">NorthCoast</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a>, both of which he retains between the USA’s West Coast and in the Bahamas. The larger yachts are then accompanied by a smattering of smaller boats, including a 63 foot superfast Baia Azzura called Parvina&nbsp;after his wife, and a number of fishing boats.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/283465/image/large-51c52abfc6c51babecd058aa24be7dbc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/283465">&nbsp;Jim’s love of being onboard began during the Vietnam War when, at the age of 18, ran a 40-footer delivering marines from warships to shore. “That’s where the passion for it really started. It was great fun, yes we got shot at a few times but only because I hadn’t paid my bar bill! I was born in Las Vegas – you can't get much more landlocked than that – so Vietnam was a real experience and working a boat really ignited my passion.” Returning from Vietnam to school in California, Jim moved to a house on the water with a boat dock and gradually his boats grew in size. From a 30 to a 40 foot, he in 1995 eventually graduated to the 28.6-metre Voyager from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, a contemporary of &nbsp;John Staluppi’s famous high speed <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/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a>.&nbsp;After Voyager, Jim unscaled to the 36.57-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/488" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Broward Marine (Company)">Broward Marine</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1219" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sovereign Lady36.57m (119'12&quot;)Broward Marine1991">Sovereign</a> (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1219" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sovereign Lady36.57m (119'12&quot;)Broward Marine1991">Sovereign Lady</a>). He then bought the 37.19-metre custom <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1093" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flagship (Company)">Flagship</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1793" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serenity37.19m (122'0&quot;)Flagship1993">Bon Bon</a> (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1793" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serenity37.19m (122'0&quot;)Flagship1993">Serenity</a>) at auction. He kept <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1793" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serenity37.19m (122'0&quot;)Flagship1993">Bon Bon</a> up until a few years ago, only replacing her with his current <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/217" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Westport Yachts (Company)">Westport</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1793" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serenity37.19m (122'0&quot;)Flagship1993">Serengeti</a> in 2013. Serengeti was built for the entertainer, Johnny Carson. Since then, Jim has owned the 49-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/106" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Trinity Yachts, LLC (Company)">Trinity</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zoom Zoom Zoom49.07m (160'12&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2005">Zoom Zoom Zoom</a>, which he sold in 2021, and the 47-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/570" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Admiral (Company)">Admiral</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/490" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Star Diamond46.93m (153'12&quot;)Admiral Marine Works1998">Star Diamond</a>, previously named <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/490" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Star Diamond46.93m (153'12&quot;)Admiral Marine Works1998">Ohana</a>, then <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/490" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Star Diamond46.93m (153'12&quot;)Admiral Marine Works1998">Rhino</a> and also sold in 2021.&nbsp;One thing that is conspicuous among the extraordinary list of yachts that Jim has owned over the years is that, bar the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, they are American built, essentially representing a who's-who of American yacht builders. “That is an intentional decision because if you cruise in Alaska with a foreign flag they require that you take a pilot onboard for $3,000 per day, even if the yacht is American flagged now and used to fly a different flag.”For Jim, cruising in Alaska is the pinnacle of his time spent aboard and it’s one of the main places he charters <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serengeti39.62m (129'12&quot;)Westport Yachts2002">Serengeti</a>. “Straight from the airport in Juneau there's the glacier, salmon, bears, and that’s before I’ve even put people on the boat!” Members of the crew use drones to capture the charter weeks and Jim is clearly an enthusiast, also fitting <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unbridled58.22m (191'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2009">Unbridled</a> with drones that take off from the water. “The thing about having a drone onboard is that you’re creating immediate memories that my family or charter guests can take home with them. All of the charter guests are given a video at the end of the week and they love that, it's a nice touch, especially because we really want people to remember the time onboard and come back the next year.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/31931/image/large-27280f6c6c1dfe5d20bdf032a3756327.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/31931">When in Alaska himself, Jim and his family like to explore the islands and climb icebergs. “The kids take the pickaxes and climb the bergs with ice buckets and fill them up for our evening cocktails. My perfect week onboard with the family would be up there, hiking among the creeks, setting traps for Dungeness crabs and fishing for salmon, halibut and shrimp. We have a barbecue and fish smoker onboard and I've recently bought an enclosed ACI 32’ tender that is better for that region because you keep warm and dry.”Not only are Jim’s yachts American, they also tend to sit around the 40 metre mark, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unbridled58.22m (191'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2009">Unbridled</a> being the outlier at nearly 60-metres. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unbridled58.22m (191'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2009">Unbridled</a> is a brilliant boat, not only is she super spacious on the inside, but she also has this massive 36-foot beam and big decks so I can have big parties out here with all of our team. Actually before we found this boat I went to my broker Kevin Merrigan and said ‘look I want a 36 foot beam and I don't care how long the boat is’.”While <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unbridled58.22m (191'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2009">Unbridled</a> spends most of her time down in Florida and the Bahamas, she is also chartered up the East Coast to Nantucket and Newport, Rhode Island. Fitted with the full suite of diving gear, the yacht was originally built as a dive vessel and you can see that clearly from her deck configuration. The main deck aft is a tender deck, with a large open plan layout that lends itself to diving preparation, while the upper decks are used for entertainment with dining and lounge arrangements. Having injured his ears piloting his twin engine Aerostar plane a few years ago, Jim is no longer a diver himself, but the yacht is still fitted with oxygen and nitrox makers for family and charter guests to use.&nbsp;While Jim buys the yachts partially for charter, he also uses all them extensively himself with his family, as well as to share them with the many senior managers at his company Glidewell Dental.&nbsp;“In January 2021 we took <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zoom Zoom Zoom49.07m (160'12&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2005">Zoom Zoom Zoom</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a> down to the Bahamas and chartered the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta Marine</a> superyacht Continental Drifter III (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fore Aces37.8m (124'0&quot;)Delta Marine2003">Four Aces</a>) for a week with our managers. It is a great thing to be able to offer the team and they really love being onboard the boat. Having 30 management people at one exotic location was something they will not forget. We actually keep <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a> in California and every other Friday we invite 120 Dentists onboard for a harbor cruise as part of the educational seminars that the team runs at the company’s headquarters in Newport Beach.” &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/193873/image/large-1c3bbae10efdfa1b7ee8f2ad600aa471.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/193873">As well as hosting dentists onboard every month, Jim uses <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a> weekly to enjoy drinks or dinner onboard with friends and family. Since buying <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a>, then <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Lady Kath</a>, in 2019, the yacht has undergone a major interior overhaul and is now decked out like an Imperial Japanese palace.&nbsp;Partly for fun and partly to make her a more interesting offering on the charter market, Jim’s reimagining of the yacht came in tandem with her name change. Like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serengeti39.62m (129'12&quot;)Westport Yachts2002">Serengeti</a>’s interiors are themed inline with her name and her saloon and staterooms are decked out in animal print with dark wooden furnishings.&nbsp;Jim has a big family, with three young sons and two daughters and when it comes to the yachts, the children all enjoy being on the water and spending time with friends onboard, whether it is fishing in Alaska or diving in the Bahamas. During the show Jim visited a number of boats with Kevin, looking for a larger replacement for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serengeti39.62m (129'12&quot;)Westport Yachts2002">Serengeti</a> to charter on the West Coast, which he will no doubt find in the coming months. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/283464/image/large-06c4b4d1848b68c78e7781912f2f49bb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/283464">“One thing that amazed me walking through the show is the size of boats we are seeing nowadays. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahpo115.1m (377'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Ahpo</a> is sitting behind us at Rybovich, At 377’, &nbsp;it shocks me that people build yachts that size because where do they berth them? I tend to buy used boats that have lost about 60 percent of their value and at this point I &nbsp;wouldn’t look into building one because at the age of 77, I don’t have the patience to wait for four years, &nbsp;I like to perform refits, and customize them to my Wife’s desires!.”While Jim may never build a superyacht, there is no doubt that he’ll take over the ownership of many others, and I look forward to joining him again next year to find out more about his yachting adventures.&nbsp;This article is featured in the 45th edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Subscribe now</a>&nbsp;to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

yacht life with Jim Glidewell

Francesca Webster sat down with Jim Glidewell, serial yacht owner and lover of Alaska, to find out more about his life with yachts.

Life onboard the 58m Trinity superyacht Unbridled with owner Jim Glidewell

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> catamaran, <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>, captivated audiences at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/182" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2023">2023 Monaco Yacht Show</a> with her radical design, characterised by an asymmetric layout and a bold exterior. <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> is complemented by 600 square-metres of curved glass windows elegantly wrapped around her superstructure. &nbsp;Delivered in December 2023, <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> was conceived as a lifestyle superyacht for Tasos Papanastasiou, designed specifically for cruising the Mediterranean. She signifies an upgrade from Mr. Papanastasiou’s previous mono-hull vessel. Behind the scenes, Mr. Papanastasiou’s representative, Karolos Konstantinidis, oversaw the superyacht's development. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/286861/image/large-1f73f883058d33f1127c472a4f2c3000.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/286861"><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> exhibits naval architecture by the UK-based <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>, with her striking exterior courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/511" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tecnomar (Company)">Tecnomar</a>. The interior design, marked by bold geometry, is the result of a collaborative effort by Mattia Piro and Gian Marco Campanino from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">The Italian Sea Group</a>. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> engaged with her owner’s representative Konstantinidis in an in-depth discussion about <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>, focusing on the owner’s vision and the innovative design choices incorporated. Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/58788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Onboard the radical new 44m Tecnomar superyacht This Is It with her designers (2023-10-09 14:30:00 +0200)">Onboard the radical new 44m Tecnomar superyacht This Is It with her designers</a>Could you elaborate on the decision-making process that led to the selection of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/511" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tecnomar (Company)">Tecnomar</a> brand for the construction of <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>? The choice to go with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/511" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tecnomar (Company)">Tecnomar</a> was significantly influenced by Mr. Papanastasiou's existing relationship with Founder and CEO of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">Italian Sea Group</a> Giovanni Costantino. Mr. Papanastasiou had complete faith in Costantino and his team's ability to not only meet but exceed his expectations, crafting something the yachting world had not seen before. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">The Italian Sea Group</a>'s track record is well-established, particularly highlighted by their collaborations with high-profile brands like Lamborghini and their portfolio of unique yacht creations. Their consistent demonstration of innovative and exceptional design capabilities made them the clear choice for constructing <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>.After several months spent reviewing various designs alongside interior designer Gian Marco Campanino, the catamaran concept was finally presented to Mr. Papanastasiou. The moment he saw it, he immediately exclaimed, “<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>, this is what I want to build!” and promptly signed the contract. This spontaneous declaration not only reflected his instant decision but also inspired the yacht’s name.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297396/image/large-9d01886e10d65effb1cbc3e37f31c2f1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297396">Can you provide insights into the factors that influenced your decision to opt for a multi-hull design over a mono-hull motor yacht or a sailing yacht?The decision to opt for a multi-hull design was influenced by several factors. Mr. Papanastasiou, having previously owned mono-hulls, recognised the growing appeal of catamarans in the market, primarily for their enhanced safety and stability over mono-hulls. With his intent to primarily cruise in the Greek seas, known for challenging winds and waves, a multi-hull design was seen as ideal for navigating these conditions. Additionally, space was a crucial consideration. <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> features a 750 GT and offers ample space, ensuring exceptional comfort and luxury for guests. Informed by his past experiences, Tasos Papanastasiou's vision was to create a yacht where guests could comfortably spend their entire day immersed in luxury without any inclination to leave.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281419/image/large-b79191de91a46795639266703cc1e2e3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281419">What were your primary day-to-day responsibilities once the construction of <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>&nbsp;was underway?As the owner's representative and manager of his family office, my primary responsibility during the construction of <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> was to oversee the project. We had a dedicated team on site in Italy, including four surveyors, the captain, and the chief engineer, to monitor the day-to-day progress. Our goal was to strike the perfect balance between comfort, luxury, and nautical correctness, ensuring the yacht would perform exceptionally well once it began cruising. Each team member, specialising in their respective field, contributed their expertise to the build. We held weekly meetings to discuss progress, address any challenges, and ensure that <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> met our high standards as a nautical vessel while also providing the utmost in comfort and luxury.Regarding her usage, <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> is primarily intended for chartering. While there may be occasions for personal use, her primary purpose is to be made available for charter. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281446/image/large-e0ee0723252e0616a7a05af524632eb1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281446">Given the growing focus on sustainability, were there specific measures taken during the construction to make <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>, more environmentally friendly, and if so, what were they? In line with the latest environmental standards, we implemented several measures to enhance the sustainability of <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>. Firstly, we equipped the yacht with advanced filters to control emissions, significantly reducing its environmental impact. Secondly, the choice of a catamaran design contributes to greater fuel efficiency during cruising, especially when compared to traditional mono-hull yachts. Lastly, in our construction materials, we prioritised environmental friendliness by using aluminium instead of plastics or other less eco-friendly materials commonly found in yacht construction.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/286858/image/large-4a6a1c30a03b55569d5407105c3288e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/286858"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/286859/image/large-d601a1a43ee02c304ce1cf75e99745f3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/286859"> To what extent was the owner actively engaged in and influential during the design and build processes of <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>?In all his projects, Mr. Papanastasiou has always been actively involved, and this was especially true for the construction of <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>, where he closely followed every step of the process. We provided him with brief weekly reports, and he actively engaged in making decisions and modifications along the way. Some of the features now present on <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> were not part of the original design but were added as the construction progressed. The owner often suggested changes, such as adding specific elements or replacing others, drawing on his extensive experience in chartering and yacht ownership. His insights proved invaluable, particularly given his deep understanding of what guests seek in a charter experience, ensuring that <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> would offer the perfect yachting experience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289261/image/large-ea3635378655fb23692cc8ea84134e11.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289261"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289258/image/large-d120a596051a2b9c66e6be4b36046ad0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289258">Illustrating Mr. Papanastasiou's input, several notable features were added under his guidance. These include the glass installation in the galley, allowing the chef to be in full view of guests in the dining room, and a bar with an Arabian theme. A unique feature is the 'cinema under the stars' on the top deck, enhancing the entertainment offerings. The master stateroom, with its impressive 3.3-metre glass ceiling above the bed, offers guests a mesmerising view of the stars. Additionally, the yacht houses a versatile convertible room, adept at switching between a playroom and a guest room, thus offering flexibility in accommodation and enhancing the guest experience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/286294/image/large-6600cc03a4cb2e7ed882a6c5128e385e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/286294">

Building Tecnomar's 44m catamaran: "This Is It, this is what I want to build"

SuperYacht Times engaged with her owner’s representative focusing on the owner’s vision and the innovative design choices incorporated.

Owner Insights: "This Is It, this is what I want to build"

As the glitter and dust settle on another <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6626" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Centtrip (Company)">Centtrip</a>’s Director of Europe Mark Perry reflects on four days of walking and talking, listening and learning at the industry’s foremost event.I’ve been coming to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show (MYS)</a> with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6626" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Centtrip (Company)">Centtrip</a> for six years and each year I learn something new. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6626" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Centtrip (Company)">Centtrip</a> specialises in the unique payment, expense and foreign exchange needs of the world’s largest superyachts, so MYS always feels like a home from home for us. I’m always excited to be here but, for us, being at the show is less about selling our service. It’s more about supporting the sector and understanding what it needs from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6626" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Centtrip (Company)">Centtrip</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330716/image/large-89eecd33fa12146030bbd552ccfe46eb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330716">The show is not just glamour and beautiful yachts; it’s the buzz of the business and the innovation that’s on display at every turn and on every stand.When I think about the three things I learnt – my takeaways from the show – they are all aspects of innovation:<ul><li>Bigger vessels</li><li>Sustainable luxury</li><li>Evolving uses</li></ul>Looking at each of those in turn, you can see how they overlap.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329743/image/large-56c979eb0820c3152a29ba018b0f097d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329743">1. Bigger (and even better) vesselsOf course, the biggest yachts grab the headlines each year.&nbsp;Larger superyachts, whether on charter or in private use, have larger crews and more complex operations. This is where <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6626" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Centtrip (Company)">Centtrip</a> – with the visibility, control and empowerment we provide – can add greatest value, and this is where we spend most of our time.&nbsp;In fact, this year, 4 in 10 (40%) of the superyachts showcased at the show have <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6626" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Centtrip (Company)">Centtrip</a> onboard.For 2024, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5626" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Golden Odyssey123.23m (404'4&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2015">Golden Odyssey</a> – fresh from its 2023 refit and up for sale – became the largest yacht ever to have attended MYS.But it was the marginally smaller <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kismet122.0m (400'3&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Kismet</a> (also by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> and 122m compared to 123.23m) that attracted most headlines. Available for charter and on exhibit, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kismet122.0m (400'3&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Kismet</a>’s helipad, cinema, spa, beach club and panoramic master office all made the news. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kismet122.0m (400'3&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Kismet</a> is also notable for its hybrid power train, offering a full-electric mode that classes the boat as one of the most powerful superyachts in the world.The other most super of superyachts at the show included <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1732" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Freire Shipyard (Company)">Freire Shipyard</a>’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Renaissance30.2m (99'1&quot;)Benetti SpA2005">Renaissance</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5962" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DAR90.13m (295'8&quot;)Oceanco2018">Dar</a> and <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/6826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Energy77.8m (255'3&quot;)Amels2022">Energy</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/199779/image/large-42f4d711547e925e8fc1cd8075191d6c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/199779">2. Innovations in sustainable luxurySustainability was on everyone’s lips, and it was in action too, at the show’s Sustainability Hub and across the event.&nbsp;Yachts on display, like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kismet122.0m (400'3&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Kismet</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12135" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seawolf X42.75m (140'3&quot;)Rossinavi2024">Seawolf X</a>, boast ever more capable hybrid power units. The 42.76m catamaran <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12135" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seawolf X42.75m (140'3&quot;)Rossinavi2024">Seawolf X</a> can cross the Atlantic using electric mode for 80% of the time.Maserati, better known as a luxury carmaker, debuted at Monaco with its all-electric powerboat Tridente. The 10.5m boat has an output of 600hp and a top speed of 40 knots.Meanwhile, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7872" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GX Superyachts (Company)">GX Superyacht</a>s’ radical new range offers smooth and luxurious hybrid power with an electric range of 100 nautical miles at six knots and, with diesel power, the ability to cross the Atlantic at 12 knots on a single tank of fuel. The range promises carbon emissions that are less than 60% of a conventional yacht while its large lithium batteries and solar array can power full hotel systems, including air conditioning, for 48 hours while at anchor.Elsewhere, as <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/innovation-at-monaco-yacht-show-2024" target="_blank">SuperYacht Times reported, hydrogen fuel cells</a> offer another approach to carbon-neutral yachting.It’s not just propulsion. It’s exciting to see more eco-conscious designs and builds all around the show as designers explore new, more sustainable materials and hull designs.These innovations are important for the future of the industry. As <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6626" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Centtrip (Company)">Centtrip</a> highlighted in our recent Changing Faces of Wealth report, sustainability is an increasingly important concern for the ultra-high-net-worth individuals that are the superyacht sector’s clients. And, of course, sustainability is important for the future health of our oceans.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329741/image/large-232f68e7de32ab5edaff90d73c68a913.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329741">3. The evolving use of superyachtsWe’ve seen this growing for some time and it’s fascinating to see how owners’ evolving interests and concerns are influencing yacht design.Owners are spending more time aboard their yachts – sometimes to the mild concern of the charter brokers – and this is being reflected in how they use their boats and how design meets those needs.Family time is important too, and you can see this not only in more toys and beach clubs, but also in more multi-functional space for entertaining.With owners spending more time onboard, and often a greater interest in the environment, superyachts are sailing further afield. Owners wish to make a positive contribution to the environment by supporting research and even accommodating scientists for trips to the Antarctic and other regions. We’ve seen that in our own business with foreign exchange and spending on our multi-currency cards often extending beyond the usual euro and US dollar transactions.Yachts like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Five Oceans53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2024">Five Oceans</a>, Mangusta Oceano 44, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6018" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bold85.3m (279'10&quot;)Silver Yachts2019">Bold</a>, all with a range exceeding 4,000 nautical miles, exemplify this trend for long-range, explorer yachts. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330719/image/large-c419c5c0620b04bbf1ee55ea730e9fcf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330719"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6626" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Centtrip (Company)">Centtrip</a>&nbsp;and the superyacht sectorFor over a decade, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6626" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Centtrip (Company)">Centtrip</a> has supported the world’s largest superyachts. We’ve attended <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">MYS</a> for six years and I’m always impressed by the lengths that superyacht professionals go, beneath the surface, to deliver the seamless elegance that clients and the public associate with the sector.As a business, we enjoy long-term, deep and trusted relationships with our clients and that’s a result, I believe, of our focus on providing a stable, agile and secure service to our clients and, in turn, to their clients. We aim to empower captains and crew to easily handle requests, challenges and opportunities in the moment, while delivering visibility and control to owners and yacht managers.The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show</a> is exhausting. It’s four days of walking and talking and listening and learning and – this year – getting wet. But it’s time well spent. It’s an essential event and I congratulate the organisers on delivering the industry’s leading event, every year.

Centtrip learnings from Monaco

Centtrip’s Director of Europe Mark Perry reflects on four days of walking and talking, listening and learning at the industry’s foremost event.

3 things I learnt from the Monaco Yacht Show 2024

After two exhilarating days 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>, 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, the leaders in all four classes continue to maintain perfect scorelines. The competition, which has taken place in ideal conditions, has seen close battles among the larger yachts, all above 24 metres.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330749/image/large-2f591d1e2fd5a29b7f83d8c0762a2a3b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330749">The Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez once again organised coastal races for the smaller Maxi C and D classes, while the larger, faster Maxi A and B yachts competed in windward-leeward races in the Bay of Pampelonne.Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/61604" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Day 1: Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez maxi yachts off to a strong start (2024-10-01 13:30:00 +0200)">Day 1: Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez maxi yachts off to a strong start</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330745/image/large-13c1091b961b6fbe1f586a96893ef4eb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330745">Maxi A resultsPeter Harrison’s 22-metre Jolt continues to dominate the Maxi A class, delivering two more flawless performances. In the first race, Jolt got off to a perfect start, crossing the fleet within the first minutes and rounding the top mark ahead of 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>, with Sir Peter Ogden’s 23.5-metre Jethou in third place. After IRC time correction, Jolt took the win, with Jethou second and <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> third.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330746/image/large-91c93bd0e18c6fe2df23d775e5685426.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330746">In the second race, Jolt faced challenges after losing her electronics and hydraulics just before the start, forcing the crew to sail the race using manual controls. Despite this, she secured another victory, finishing one minute and 42 seconds ahead of Jethou, with Wendy Schmidt’s 26-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Deep Blue25.91m (85'0&quot;)King Marine S.A.2020">Deep Blue</a> claiming third place."We had a major shutdown just before the start, so we went old school," explained Jolt’s tactician Hamish Pepper. "We were lucky to have everything set right when it happened, and we managed to get around the course despite the handicap."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330748/image/large-ff698394701aafdfaf652f363ec21db3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330748">Maxi B resultsIn Maxi B, Terry Hui’s 24-metre <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> continued her winning streak, securing two more wins despite some technical issues. In the first race, <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> finished ahead of Christian Oldendorff’s 33.8-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>, with Maurits van Orange’s 24.4-metre Sud in third. In the second race, <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> once again took the top spot, followed by Andrés Varela Entrecanales’ 20.7-metre Pelotari.Project and Peter Dubens' 18.3-metre Spectre.The 33.8-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> also showed impressive form, especially in the second race, where she rounded the top mark first. "Replacing the keel and rudder has transformed the boat," said <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>’s tactician Paul Campbell-James. "We can now sail flatter and more competitively. Our spinnaker drop system allows us to drop kites in 10 seconds, which is a huge advantage."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330744/image/large-8aff29a86e4576244447aeddd3b34efb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330744">Despite some equipment failures, including a snapped main sheet, the crew of <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> acted quickly to stay in the race, ultimately finishing second in the first race.With tomorrow set as a layday for the maxi fleets, racing will resume on Thursday, where competitors will look to build on their performances in the final stages of the event.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330747/image/large-42d453f147bca443d212fd86f8279c93.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330747">

Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez Day 2 results

Day 2 of the Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez saw ideal conditions and close battles among the larger yachts.

Day 2: Perfect racing conditions for the Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a> has entered into a strategic partnership with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1371" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="T. Mariotti Spa (Company)">T. Mariotti</a>, a shipyard based in Genova, Italy. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1371" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="T. Mariotti Spa (Company)">T. Mariotti</a> has been involved in the construction of luxury cruise ships and offshore vessels.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330741/image/large-a7cfec74f3cb2e6a7ffa8087b6f9ca1d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330741">The agreement establishes a partnership between the two Italian luxury shipbuilding companies, paving the way for new large yacht projects that aim to be innovative, sustainable, and constructed to the highest standards of safety and technology.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330743/image/large-e2f13a3040b3bd6c4f3115b84556cb96.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330743">The outcome of this collaboration will include the construction of steel, aluminium, and carbon yachts, measuring up to 180-metres in length. These vessels will be designed in line with the ongoing principles that guide both shipyards' current projects.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330739/image/large-8276f51b4aab1482003d2b2a7c4b7c96.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330739">

Cantieri di Pisa announces partnership with T. Mariotti

Cantieri di Pisa has entered into a strategic partnership with T. Mariotti, a shipyard based in Genova, Italy.

Cantieri di Pisa announces partnership with  T. Mariotti

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1535" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-Boat Worx B.V. (Company)">U-Boat Worx</a> has announced the appointment of Bart van Nunen as CEO and welcomed new shareholders to the company.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330733/image/large-0fe1e67f714dbdfc42b80e16defd97f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330733">Based in the Netherlands, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1535" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-Boat Worx B.V. (Company)">U-Boat Worx</a> was founded in 2005 by Bert Houtman and is involved in the design and manufacturing of submersibles for underwater exploration. Bert Houtman will continue to play a role as a shareholder and ambassador.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330736/image/large-1a2c8222a73a6f40b0def2ecf3affaa5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330736">Commenting on his appointment, Bart van Nunen stated, “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1535" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-Boat Worx B.V. (Company)">U-Boat Worx</a> is committed to maintaining its reputation as a leader in manufacturing world-class submersibles. With the support of our new shareholder, we are well-positioned to advance the company’s technological capabilities, expand our global footprint, and drive innovations that redefine underwater exploration. We are embarking on a journey of remarkable innovation and look forward to enhancing our strong relationships with customers and partners, further solidifying our position as pioneers in the field.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330735/image/large-06a0dc459bb14873b6bed6157f5d50c2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330735">Bart van Nunen has a track record as a CEO in the technology and manufacturing sectors, where his leadership contributed to the development of long-term strategies and the progression of companies from scale-up to full production. Although he is not originally from the yachting industry, his extensive sailing experience, which includes global voyages and time onboard tall ships, is set to provide a distinct perspective to his approach to leadership.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330734/image/large-f8ca87e1afbacf24c92d662faeee7b67.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330734"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1535" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-Boat Worx B.V. (Company)">U-Boat Worx</a> attributes its success to a focus on customer satisfaction. The company is also expanding its field operations (FOP) team to ensure that clients worldwide receive consistent service, support, and training. This expansion is intended to provide comprehensive support to clients, regardless of their location. The growth of the FOP team aligns with the needs of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1535" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-Boat Worx B.V. (Company)">U-Boat Worx</a>'s operations and the company's order book, which indicates a steady demand for its submersibles.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330737/image/large-519b7a7a677805cb67d63b150008e6d1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330737">

U-Boat Worx appoints new CEO

U-Boat Worx has announced the appointment of Bart van Nunen as CEO and welcomed new shareholders to the company.

U-Boat Worx appoints new CEO and welcomes new shareholders

The 30.48-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1184" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hargrave Custom Yachts (Company)">Hargrave</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2993" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitesse30.48m (100'0&quot;)Hargrave Custom Yachts2007">Vitesse</a> is for sale with Trevor Carroll and John Jacobi of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> was delivered in 2007, as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1184" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hargrave Custom Yachts (Company)">Hargrave</a> 100 Capri series.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330422/image/large-80bb9d201c447b6f555df7e53db618de.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330422"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2993" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitesse30.48m (100'0&quot;)Hargrave Custom Yachts2007">Vitesse</a> features both exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1184" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hargrave Custom Yachts (Company)">Hargrave Custom Yachts</a>, while her interior is the work of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/896" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Interiors by Shelley (Company)">Yacht Interiors by Shelley</a>. She can accommodate up to nine guests across four staterooms, and &nbsp;three crew members, including the captain. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330425/image/large-770d5ace3dd582cd62a1e9033e5029ef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330425"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330423/image/large-5cb346a2d8c38d31b187d2794dd6477c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330423"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330429/image/large-e82ac7d63a964eefe75cd1e6c90e9e3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330429">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> showcases an elegantly designed saloon, featuring light-toned wooden furnishings that contrast with the neutral-toned ceiling, accentuating the room's sophisticated atmosphere. Moreover, the generously sized dining table, situated next to the seating area, adds versatility to the space, allowing guests to both relax and dine in comfort.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330438/image/large-47f43de4a35da9e6619bf31e5c835433.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330438"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330439/image/large-074bddb79d27a0538d02d674e804b7a9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330439"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330440/image/large-1b8416c6e0bd4697759d61b880c82bbe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330440"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330441/image/large-0084f0b107093555c8c24133aed98f64.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330441">Accommodation onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2993" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitesse30.48m (100'0&quot;)Hargrave Custom Yachts2007">Vitesse</a> reflects the same design aesthetic as the main saloon, with light-toned wooden undertones. The master stateroom features a four-poster bed and a reading nook, making it ideal for any owner who wishes to relax in privacy.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330427/image/large-0b53d4f75ababeda46bf32bc6d54ee41.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330427"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330420/image/large-e07de43fe5d91886af83aea116f8b85b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330420"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330418/image/large-b2bafea09f635397c08a6785f21944fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330418"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330419/image/large-41423f924a8d102e8760307b6b0f2f8a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330419">Exterior features on the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/vitesse/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Vitesse for sale</a> include a well-equipped sundeck, boasting amenities such as a strategically placed bar, a Jacuzzi perfect for guests to unwind in while sipping cocktails, and a generously sized outdoor dining table that can accommodate approximately eight guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330416/image/large-401ce205ec3566f63a1532cd0d07efc4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330416">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/hargrave/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Hargrave motor yacht for sale</a> has a GRP hull and superstructure. 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, which give her a cruising speed of 14 knots and a top speed of 21 knots. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330428/image/large-59215ab497423b9d446cbc56932be74e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330428">

30m Hargrave motor yacht Vitesse for sale

The 30m Hargrave motor yacht Vitesse is for sale with Fraser.

Hull 23 of the 26.78-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a> Grande 27M motor yacht series sold in a deal with Alain Auvare and Anton Farber of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266813/image/large-cfcdffc2f9f1a45b59632f7cce29df92.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266813">Delivered in 2018 as hull 23 of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bin Saleh26.78m (87'10&quot;)Azimut Yachts2018">Azimut Grande 27M</a> series, the flybridge yacht features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/254" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Stefano Righini Design (Company)">Stefano Righini Design</a>, while her interior was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/563" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Salvagni Architetti (Company)">Salvagni Architetti</a>, with naval architecture by her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut Yachts</a>.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bin Saleh26.78m (87'10&quot;)Azimut Yachts2018"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266811/image/large-f4d52f609cc17369ed3ef1a29d624433.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266811"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266809/image/large-dac8beba51265b98c4676165702e8fed.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266809"></a>The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bin Saleh26.78m (87'10&quot;)Azimut Yachts2018">Azimut Grande 27M</a> yacht features an open-plan main saloon that flows seamlessly into her dining area, with seating for up to 10 guests for a formal dining experience. She is characterised by an elegant interior, with a contemporary style that emphasises open spaces, natural light, and high-quality materials.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bin Saleh26.78m (87'10&quot;)Azimut Yachts2018"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266798/image/large-2b96d64fb7a06ef68ab6083a6ada45ae.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266798"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266805/image/large-3e0b83ccabb15c9be4d53c0aba790092.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266805"></a>The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bin Saleh26.78m (87'10&quot;)Azimut Yachts2018">Azimut Grande 27M</a> yacht can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests across five sumptuous staterooms including a full-beam master suite on the main deck with large windows that provide breathtaking views of the ocean.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266785/image/large-6f67eb8433aa8ad9feb5b743d7f40ff2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266785">In terms of performance, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bin Saleh26.78m (87'10&quot;)Azimut Yachts2018">Azimut Grande 27M</a> yacht 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> UR V12 1,900 horsepower diesel engines that propel her to a top speed of 28 knots and a cruising speed of 24 knots. At the time of her sale, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bin Saleh26.78m (87'10&quot;)Azimut Yachts2018">Azimut Grande 27M</a> yacht had a last known asking price of €5,500,000.&nbsp;

Azimut 27M motor yacht sold

Hull 23 of 26.78-metre Azimut 27M motor yacht series sold, with a last known asking price of €5,500,000. 

Azimut Grande 27M motor yacht sold

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acquera Yachting (Company)">Acquera Yachting</a>, headquartered in Venice, Italy and a key player in the superyacht services sector, has announced a significant strategic expansion into the Caribbean. This growth involves the acquisition of several companies in the region, bolstering its operational scope.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330708/image/large-67955ab2f818ca764b8730b21947aec7.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330708">Since 2021, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acquera Yachting (Company)">Acquera</a> has been active in the Grenadines through an exclusive partnership with Erika’s Yacht Agents. This collaboration has now been fully integrated into <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acquera Yachting (Company)">Acquera Yachting</a>, extending its coverage to include Sint Maarten. Additionally, the acquisition of Ben's Yacht Services in Saint Lucia and Cobra Yacht Services in Dominica has further expanded its reach. With new offices in Sint Maarten, Antigua, and St. Barth, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acquera Yachting (Company)">Acquera Yachting</a> now offers a wider range of continuous and highly specialised services across a broader territory.Commenting on the expansion, Stefano Tositti, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acquera Yachting (Company)">Acquera</a>, said: “This expansion is a crucial step for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acquera Yachting (Company)">Acquera</a>. The Caribbean, a strategic area in the yachting world, is well-known to us through our long-standing collaboration with excellent partners such as Erika’s Yacht Agents. We are now integrating these operations with other companies under the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acquera Yachting (Company)">Acquera Yachting</a> brand to ensure continuous, consistent, and high-quality service. With the Caribbean now included alongside the Mediterranean and the Middle East, we cover all key yachting hotspots year-round, making us the only global player in the market known for being truly modern and transparent.”<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acquera Yachting (Company)">Acquera Yachting</a> attributes its success to its expertise in local regulations, anchorage zones, and technical requirements, which it claims enables the company to manage yacht operations effectively and meet client needs. According to the company, its efficiency and quick response in regions facing logistical and supply challenges are backed by a network of offices in key locations.Ichel Moeslikan, Caribbean Operations Manager, stated: "I am thrilled to be leading the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acquera Yachting (Company)">Acquera Yachting</a> project in the Caribbean, coordinating operations from the Grenadines to Sint Maarten. Our team, well known and appreciated by the yachting community, will offer clients a wider range of services and greater efficiency. Captains and owners will be able to cruise the Caribbean with the assurance of excellent and continuous service.”With its expansion into the Caribbean, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acquera Yachting (Company)">Acquera Yachting</a> has further strengthened its global presence, which already includes the Mediterranean and the Middle East.

Acquera Yachting expands its presence in the Caribbean with acquisitions

Acquera Yachting, a key player in the superyacht services sector, has announced an expansion into the Caribbean through strategic acquisitions.

Acquera Yachting expands its presence in the Caribbean

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330655/image/large-820524d84953243ac65d14a29303345e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330655">Yesterday, during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/190" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="America's Cup - 2024 - 37th America's Cup Barcelona">America's Cup</a>, the two motor yachts, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1372" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lightning52.0m (170'7&quot;)Amels2004">Lightning</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H35.2m (115'6&quot;)Azimut Yachts2023">H</a>, were seen at Port Vell in Barcelona, Spain. Built by the Dutch shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a> in 2004, the 52-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1372" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lightning52.0m (170'7&quot;)Amels2004">Lightning</a>, previously named Radiant, is designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Terence Disdale Design (Company)">Terence Disdale</a>. With a volume of 609 gross tonnage and a range of 7,760 nautical miles, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1372" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lightning52.0m (170'7&quot;)Amels2004">Lightning</a>, owned by an UAE businessman, is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1483" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cummins Inc. (Company)">Cummins</a> engines that provide a top speed of 15 knots. She offers accommodations for 10 guests and 13 crew members, ensuring both luxury and comfort at sea.&nbsp;Cruising on the opposite side is the 35.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H35.2m (115'6&quot;)Azimut Yachts2023">H</a>, launched in 2023 as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a> Grande 36M series. Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3025" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mancini Yacht Design (Company)">Alberto Mancini</a>, the UK-flagged yacht comfortably hosts up to 10 guests in five staterooms, along with six crew members. She is currently for sale with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a> at an asking price of €16,500,000.&nbsp;

Motor yachts Lightning and H in Barcelona

The 52m Amels yacht Lightning and 35m Azimut yacht H are seen here in Marina Port Vell, Spain.

The 36.92-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/13442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aleden36.92m (121'2&quot;)Sanlorenzo2024">Aleden</a> is for sale with Marco Fodale of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> was delivered in 2024, 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> SL120 Asymmetric series.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330123/image/large-8872bae4ed2a8bfe7c5abbf8df19f277.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330123"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aleden36.92m (121'2&quot;)Sanlorenzo2024">Aleden</a> features both exterior and interior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuccon International Project (Company)">Zuccon International Project</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>. She can accommodate up to 10 guests onboard across five staterooms, as well as six crew members, including the captain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330129/image/large-b751a5ebc1252c6241697a78bb90fbf2.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330129"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330125/image/large-59645799efbb4649b3c4c395ee2e66b8.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330125">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> features a contemporary-style saloon with a circular sofa and armchair encircling a rounded coffee table. Her seamless integration with the foldable beach club ensures close connectivity with the outdoors, enabling guests in the main saloon to enjoy close proximity to the water.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330122/image/large-71118706e08911ddd473bdc3b92be6ba.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330122"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330121/image/large-5f6c9e390f9bd4d06e08fec03aeccd2d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330121">Regarding accommodation, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aleden36.92m (121'2&quot;)Sanlorenzo2024">Aleden</a> features a versatile master stateroom bathed in ample sunlight from expansive windows. The room includes a desk area for private work and a large sofa positioned by a window, offering the owner a relaxing spot. The neutral-toned furnishings contribute to a calming atmosphere in the room.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330116/image/large-62d04b5812cad9df15ecb2b2b602b5d3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330116"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330115/image/large-8409cf1acb9a11818ec98dfb1f77ae5a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330115"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330118/image/large-d2dfb44f3033bec9b6c8476405b47446.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330118"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330119/image/large-93f17ceda96beed8147ecfe63d78611f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330119">Exterior features on the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/aleden-37m/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Aleden for sale</a> include ample seating options, such as on the main aft deck where foldable tables can comfortably accommodate ten guests for an alfresco dining experience. Moving up to the sundeck, a well-positioned bar adjacent to the seating area ensures guests can relax with ease while sipping cocktails. Foldable balconies further enhance a seamless connection with the sea, enabling guests to lounge right by the water.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330124/image/large-5af3adc9b15a7191a079ea701327535b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330124"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330120/image/large-1827cf8e37383962fe0601c708e38dd8.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330120">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/sanlorenzo/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Sanlorenzo yacht for sale</a> has a GRP hull and superstructure. Performance-wise, 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 23 knots, and a top speed of 27 knots.

37m Sanlorenzo motor yacht Aleden for sale

The 36.92-metre Sanlorenzo motor yacht Aleden is for sale with Marco Fodale of Fraser.

The first interior images of the Sindalah Yacht Club have been unveiled as the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7283" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sindalah Marina (Company)">Sindalah</a> island destination in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7371" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="NEOM (Company)">NEOM</a> prepares to open later this year. Developed in collaboration with world-renowned Italian designer Stefano Ricci, the Sindalah Yacht Club aims to become a premier destination for yacht owners, while offering a direct gateway to the Red Sea. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330653/image/large-b7f2a8f353f876e5beec32cfe6079ceb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330653">Marking Ricci’s first foray into club design, the Sindalah Yacht Club spans 1,800 square-metres, nestled within the heart of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7283" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sindalah Marina (Company)">Sindalah</a>’s marina. The island is set to become a focal point for the global yachting community, and this new club showcases Ricci's distinct artistic vision.The Sindalah Yacht Club features a opulent interior design, which draws inspiration from nature and Italy’s rich artistic heritage. Featuring white Carrara marble, Ricci’s custom-designed Sindalah Blue, and briar-root wood accents, the space exudes luxury and sophistication. The restaurant’s coffered ceiling and hand-woven textiles from Florence’s historic Antico Setificio Fiorentino add further touches of refinement.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/330654/image/large-442813bd53d6077c81237eeb440da67d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/330654">“I entered the Sindalah Yacht Club project because I believe that NEOM is a visionary undertaking ahead of its time, like Florence which became the cradle of the Renaissance,” explained Stefano Ricci.“It’s a beautiful jump into the future that recalls our mission. As a Florentine designer, I hope to have conveyed the fine stylistic balance that ideally unites these two worlds.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280906/image/large-b8e9d5d086a1e1d0a5f0033a6661dde1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280906">Club members and guests will be treated to an array of exclusive features, including a serene terrace pool, a chic lounge, and a fine-dining restaurant curated by Michelin-starred chef Enrico Bartolini.Nicholas Smith, General Manager of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7283" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sindalah Marina (Company)">Sindalah</a>, expressed his excitement over the unveiling, stating; "As Sindalah nears completion, we are thrilled to present a preview of what this extraordinary island will offer. Our collaboration with Stefano Ricci underscores our commitment to creating a truly exceptional destination for the world’s yachting elite."Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56505" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Red Sea development: Sindalah, NEOM’s first island development with 86-berth marina announced (2022-12-05 14:30:00 +0100)">Red Sea development: Sindalah, NEOM’s first island development with 86-berth marina announced</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/276018/image/large-3b1f7884e4aacec8e2cd3eed1a749bf1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/276018">Managed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IGY Marinas (Company)">IGY Marinas</a>, the Sindalah Yacht Club promises top-tier services to yacht owners and guests, while its marina offers exceptional berthing facilities for superyachts up to 180-metres.Positioned as a year-round homeport, the marina provides direct access to some of the world’s most stunning waters, solidifying Sindalah’s status as a premier destination for yachting enthusiasts.

NEOM unveils first interior images of Sindalah Yacht Club

The first interior images of the Stefano Ricci-designed Sindalah Yacht Club have been unveiled by NEOM.

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NEOM unveils first interior images of Sindalah Yacht Club by Stefano Ricci

Charles S. Cohen, the American owner of the recently delivered 67-metre Benetti superyacht Seasense, is an owner who certainly counters the sometimes negative connotations of the typical superyacht owner. Private to the core with just two interviews permitted following delivery, when I meet Cohen on board the shiny new Seasense on a beautiful day on the French Riviera, his passion, excitement and complete satisfaction with his new home on the sea is palpable. Boarding&nbsp;Seasense for the very first time, it’s impossible not to let your jaw drop at the enormous swimming pool you are immediately presented with on the main deck aft. “It knocks you out, right?” Cohen grins. “I really think so, and I don’t want to seem like I’m gloating, but that pool is incredible. The whole thing is incredible.” A very wealthy man, yes, but at that moment, with his eyes lighting up as he speaks about Seasense, nothing more than an excited yachtie: no bragging, no gloating, just pure excitement. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/15735/image/large-bd358373e03c2204a0b0c95503762d70.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/15735"> Coming from a high-rolling world of prime New York real estate and film production, a lack of narcissism may be a little unexpected from a figure like Charles Cohen. A regular in the public eye for both his film and real estate businesses, Cohen has not shied away from interviews or the media in the past, but when it comes to his boat - an extension of his family home - it’s a different story altogether. Seasense, it is immediately apparent, is a way to escape the relatively high-profile life he and his wife, Clodagh, lead, a perfect space in which they can create their own reality with their children and baby grandchild, an environment that is built for them and a way to achieve true freedom in the little time they can spare from their intense professional lives. “I sailed as a kid in summer camp and on holidays in small little sailboats. I’ve always loved motor boats and waverunners, canoeing and kayaking and fishing… I’ve just always loved the sea. It has a calming, soothing effect on me. You lose yourself when you’re by the sea. Things that may bother you on land somehow dissipate, and it allows you to reflect on life in a meaningful way,” Cohen muses.&nbsp;But it’s not just the end product that has excited the Cohen’s. Both Charles and Clodagh were also heavily involved throughout the whole design and construction process. Their love for style and details in their yachting journey all started, they tell me, on a 44’ Riva. “I started with a 44’ Rivarama, which was just so beautifully designed. That’s really how I fell in love with Italian shipbuilding; the attention to detail, the beautiful finishes, the contemporary design, the great workmanship. From the 44’ I went to a 92’ Riva and we still have a 33’ Riva which we keep at home in the States.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/15714/image/large-df00e9018b295bccf42b193adbb45b35.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/15714"> After being largely dissatisfied with many of the bigger yachts they had seen and visited but being very much bitten by the yachting bug - (“Every yacht we saw… they just weren’t us,” says Clodagh) - they decided to take the plunge and commission a brand new yacht from a yard whose name is synonymous with that Italian style, quality and flair they were looking for. But why straight in for the 67-metre new build, I ask? Was chartering superyachts or a used yacht, not an option? “I had the same thing when we built our house,” Charles asserts. “I just can’t wear someone else’s shoes.”Speaking about the design and construction process, Charles continues: “Benetti came up with the initial design and we expanded upon that. Working with Benetti has been a dream experience for us. They were flexible, they were accommodating, they were persistent… It has just been a fabulous win/win for everyone. I definitely had a lot of input. I wanted a plumb bow, I wanted the pool at the back of the boat to be pulled out from under the shadow of the overhang, I wanted to be sure it had the dynamic style and lines that Benetti was developing. Cor D Rover is a fantastic designer, too, who was great to work with. They really allowed me to explore unconventional aspects of yacht building - evident with certain aspects of the boat such as the teak running width-wise as opposed to length-wise, very high ceiling heights everywhere, the swimming pool, and the connection with the outdoors. It’s all about outdoor living for us.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/15740/image/large-af0f29deb2c7d020f6e321d9d4ae62b3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/15740"> For the interior design, the Cohen’s opted for an established interior design studio that Charles has worked with extensively over the past 20 years within Cohen Brothers Realty Corporation. Seasense was to be AREA’s first superyacht project, and as Cohen laughingly recalls, it wasn’t all smooth sailing in the beginning. “AREA has a very unique and classy, contemporary styling, and they’re wonderful to work with because they are so flexible. But I’ll be honest, the first presentation was terrible. We threw it out and we were actually thinking of firing them! Really. But they revamped it, overcame our concerns, worked with us closely on colours, materials and the design idea, and we got to where we are now. It was a journey, but I count myself privileged to be one of their clients.”The end result? A family boat that is completely sculpted to the Cohen’s lives. The joy of Charles and Clodagh radiated during our time together, and it was hard not to share their happiness. After all, what is the point in working tirelessly towards success if the delivery of the world’s most aspirational assets doesn’t excite you? Have you achieved the ultimate dream with Seasense, I ask? “In a word: yes,” Charles confidently replies. “It’s a wonderful journey. It’s the ultimate dream and the ultimate freedom. It’s the world, but you’re travelling within your own world.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/15681/image/large-a3fab33757db43c83b27f94a4eb74a38.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/15681"> “We love being together,” Clodagh affirms. “The kids are just so much fun to watch. They keep jumping off the boat from the balconies - it’s great! They’re being very well-behaved now, but when all the photographers aren’t here, they’re jumping in and of the pool. It’s so sweet. We never go inside! The kids are also so excited. I was telling someone that our last boat was 92’, and our oldest son was 4 when we sold that and started working on Seasense. Our youngest was 2 at the time. So when they stepped on the boat for the first time the other day, they looked at me and said, ‘Is this boat bigger than our last one?’ Obviously, they’re a lot bigger now, and they were so tiny when we were on the 92 footer, so it all seems just as huge!”The Cohens are the ultimate affirmation of the quality of life that can be achieved on board a superyacht. But it’s not all about hundreds of millions of euros worth of big, big yachts - as Clodagh concludes: “What we love about yachting is that everyone is on the water. Of course, a superyacht has a certain price tag, but it doesn’t matter what price bracket you have - there are big boats, small boats, of all shapes and sizes. People love the water. You see old guys, getting onto their little fishing boats and they don’t even look like they should be able to work, but there they are, out on the water. There is something lovely about boating, and something even lovelier about boating people.”&nbsp;This article was featured in the latest edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Subscribe now&nbsp;</a>to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

Owner insight: Onboard the new 67m superyacht Seasense

Born and bred in Norway and departing as a teenager to study in Normandy, it’s apparent as soon as I sit down in Espen Øino’s Monegasque office that Øino’s Scandinavian motherland is at the heart of everything close to him. “Five generations of wooden boatbuilding on my father’s side in the mountains of Norway,” he tells me, “and on my mother’s side, my family had a maintenance shipyard and were involved with building engines. But I’m not unique, many people have this heritage in Norway.” Unique or not, Norway is the root of his natural enthusiasm for the water, for boats, for nature, the environment, and, actually, is the real reason behind his aforementioned modest demeanour. &nbsp; &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/14601/image/large-b8a00a6c7ffaa0bca1dde0014b6f136a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/14601">Photo by Guillaume PlissonThis humility is one of the most interesting characteristics of Espen Øino. It’s not that it is expected of successful figures to be overly confident, self congratulatory, or even egotistical - but Øino is the polar opposite. Though certainly self-assured, he actively shirks away from showering himself with praise and is downright uncomfortable when others try to do so (I don’t know,” he quickly shrugs off as I pose his reputation to him, “I just forget about all that stuff. It’s very embarrassing to read it about yourself.”). This discomfort is quickly attributed to Janteloven, or the Law of Jante - a Scandinavian ideology that encourages putting society before the individual, discouraging putting your head and shoulders above anyone else. “The Law of Jante can be summarised as ‘Don’t think you’re better than anyone else’,” Øino explains. “Do your stuff, do it well, but don’t go out and brag about it. So there is something inherently within me that means I have a problem with highlighting myself or showing off and saying that we’re the best.” &nbsp;This deep-rooted societal philosophy is not limited to personal encounters with Øino and is also the justification behind the studio’s distinct lack of online presence. In fact, anybody eager to learn more about Espen Øino International on the world wide web will be surprised to find nought but a static homepage at the company’s website completed simply with an address, telephone number and logo. “I don’t want to shout from the rooftops that everyone should look at us. And so many of our projects are confidential, so we can’t really talk about anything anyway. I made an executive decision not to do the website many years ago and have stuck to that… I was, however, recently in Australia with Guillaume Plisson, and we were shooting one of the Silver boats. He introduced me to Instagram and I have been hooked since. But the Law of Jante is deeply rooted in the Scandinavian mind, and that is at least my own analysis of the lack of website and general digital presence.”&nbsp;Whether or not Janteloven is a valid excuse for a lack of online presence in an increasingly digital world aside, the theme of modesty is not one that usually goes hand in hand with the superyacht industry… and neither is Monaco and an aversion to the luxury lifestyle. But somehow, Øino proves that both of these things can be true in one capacity or another: “I instantly felt that this was the place for me when I came to Monaco,”&nbsp;he remembers.&nbsp;“Not for the glamour - I couldn’t care less about that side of things - but the proximity to the sea and the mountains. I had never seen so many boats in my life back in ‘81.”&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/14602/image/large-bff16edcde0df0695c94917d1321a950.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/14602">Espen Øino studying in NormandyBeing told that the person in front of you is not interested in glamour and wealth is a hard pill to swallow when you’re sat eating lunch together at the Yacht Club de Monaco, the conversation constantly veering off on rather spectacular tangents of exclusive Dolce &amp; Gabbana weekend events and hanging out with Hollywood’s most celebrated movie producers… and of course, it’s true that Espen Øino is fully part of the luxury lifestyle. From dining in the world’s finest restaurants with some of the planet’s wealthiest people to enjoying plenty of time onboard his own designed superyachts, to even just living in Monaco… he is part of it. But what is interesting is that though this lifestyle is what, undoubtedly, attracts many to the world of superyachts, it’s hard not to believe Øino when he says that, genuinely, he is just a hardworking guy passionate about boats, the sea and design. “The pleasure is being on the water. Of course, it’s great to be on a 70-metre superyacht, but it can also be a sea kayak, a stand-up paddleboard, a 4-metre boat with a little outboard - I don’t care. I’ve spent a lot of time on the water and I always find pleasure in it - luxurious or not.”&nbsp;It’s one thing to say you’re passionate about boats no matter the size, but Øino designs superyachts. The millionaire's plaything, the floating palaces on the sea: the epitome of luxury. However, luxury, he persists, is something that doesn’t necessarily have to be at the heart of superyachting and, so he says, the industry is shooting itself in the foot by providing only one real option for superyacht owners. “One of the problems people have with yachting is rather self-inflicted,” he muses. “We think of our industry as luxurious, but it does not have to be that way: a yacht does not have to be pretentious. When you see the level of detailing and finishing that you see onboard yachts, you very rarely see that in the same clients’ homes and offices. They are not as demanding with these assets as they are with their yachts. The price per square metre on board a yacht is incredible. We’re at the risk of killing our own industry here. Some people have started thinking that this is crazy - and it is.”Though the uber-opulent state of superyachting has never been Øino’s main attraction to designing boats - (“Growing up in Norway, my idea of what I would be designing was more focused on the small motor boats and sailing yachts. Designing these big yachts that we do here… that was kind of accidental.”) - the success that has followed every Øino-stamped project from his first superyacht project, the 74.5-metre ECO designed by Martin Francis, to one of his latest, the 106-metre Lürssen-built Amadea, has allowed him the freedom in his career to follow his true passions 25+ years down the line. “We’re doing a lot of tenders and small boats now,” he says. “I like doing less glamorous boats. I’m in the fortunate position where I can do more of what I like, and I like these boats. They’re more relatable. You can buy them and drive them yourself. So, the next thing is small production boats - we’re starting now with a Norwegian manufacturer.”<img src="/uploads/store/photo/14604/image/large-37b84ee9f8a04f65aeb11d914512de03.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/14604">Amadea“Many people tell me that I shouldn’t do it,” he continues, setting himself apart once more from the typical expectations of a Monegasque-living superyacht designer, “That I’m diluting my ‘brand’. But I don’t care! I like this. I’ve always been fascinated by ships, and if I think there’s something in this tender or on a cruise ship that I can improve, then why not do it? My philosophy is do something because you like to do it, and never do it for the money.”Smaller boats, tenders and cruise ships aside, one of the most exciting projects to be revealed by Espen Øino International - and one that is also certainly something different to the Øino vessels we are used to - is the REV project. Measuring 181.6-metres and with a heavy focus on the environment, the REV project will be built by the commercial shipbuilder VARD and is the result of a close collaboration between Espen Øino International and the project’s Norwegian owner, Kjell Inge Røkke. “We’ve been working on the REV project for around a year and honestly, in the beginning, it wasn’t this big. The owner is a very competitive guy and a very interesting character, and he’s pushing the boundaries a lot. He is somebody that is extremely practical with serious knowledge of boats, ships and nautical industries - he’s made all of his money through the sea in one way or another, from fishing to shipping to oil and gas. So he knows his stuff. He is somebody who is a perfect example of someone who loves to be involved in the project.&nbsp;“For us and for him, it’s a very different project because a lot of it is about giving back. He has signed the Just Giving pledge with Bill Gates, and this is part of it. So the boat is for scientists, for school children, for classes, to go and do research expeditions. He understands that we need to do something about the environment… This project goes beyond what we usually do.” Construction of the vessel will take place in several stages, with the hull to be built at VARD’s Tulcea facility in Romania. It will then be towed to the company’s shipyard in Brattvaag, Norway, for outfitting, and following hand over to her owner in Norway in the summer of 2020, the ship will be returned to Romania where fairing, deck-laying and finalisation of the accommodation areas will take place.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/7759/image/large-6e9cda5054478c3c8d6bbabee1a50f45.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7759">Project REV&nbsp;Another clear indicator of his passion and almost disconnect with the hyper-lux world he finds himself in is that, for several years now, Øino has been developing a true passion project for himself. Talking of the project whilst showing me the erratic Fjord-invaded coastline of Norway, he says: “I have a personal project to go and cruise the entire coast of Norway on a small boat, but that will be in a couple of years. I have my own design for a boat for myself to actually go and do this. It’s a 14-metre boat which has been on the backburner for the past six or seven years - a fast, fast, fast boat designed specifically to go around the Norwegian coast.” Though he is, indeed, in a position to do what he wants - why hasn’t this boat come to fruition yet? “The thing that holds me back from making this thing a reality is time. I have obligations to my clients, and life is all about priorities... but hopefully, this will get built one day.” It’s almost a bit comforting to know that even some of the world’s most successful people have dreams on the backburner.&nbsp;So what’s the next for Espen Øino International? Inevitably, confidentiality clauses prevent Øino from spilling even one drop of information regarding the doubtless cool projects in the pipeline so, aside from the REV project and a small cruise ship for a Norwegian builder, time will have to tell. Perhaps we will spot Øino happily cruising the extensive coast of his motherland sometime soon, perhaps not. For now, at least, all that’s left is to continue to be the one, the only, Espen Øino.

Owner Experience

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