Pier Luigi Loro Piana is best known as a competitive sailor and the owner of four sailing yachts called <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="My Song39.6m (129'11&quot;)Baltic Yachts2016">My Song</a> designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nauta Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Nauta Design</a>, culminating in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic</a> 130 delivered in 2016. Three years later the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/49954" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="40m regatta star My Song lost at sea during cargo transportation (2019-05-27 14:00:00 +0200)">maxi yacht was damaged beyond repair when it fell off a cargo ship en route to Genoa</a> from the Caribbean. The loss was a heavy blow to her owner, but every cloud has a silver lining and in the wake of the accident Loro Piana reappraised his priorities. The result was the refitted explorer yacht, 51-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1798" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Masquenada51.0m (167'4&quot;)Penglai2007">Masquenada</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220130/image/large-1333947887ee1aa213356c23de1e2536.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220130"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220143/image/large-286e401d6537d615be398271c3257b05.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220143">You always used your sailing yachts for both racing and cruising; why the switch to a motor yacht?&nbsp;After I lost <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="My Song39.6m (129'11&quot;)Baltic Yachts2016">My Song</a> I decided to separate the two functions of racing and cruising, which she had fulfilled perfectly. At the time of her launch I don’t believe there was another sailing boat with the same level of speed and comfort. But she was also at the limit in terms of size for both racing and cruising, because to race at a high level in safety meant we needed around 30 crew for every regatta, and that becomes like managing a small company. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/58235/image/large-4229e3394c914f7a0f8f2dd7396268cd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/58235">So I decided to have a dedicated regatta boat and a motor yacht for more comfortable cruising with friends and family. Together with Mario Pedol we came up with a concept for a new 58-metre motor yacht designed for long-range cruising and a trip around the world. But any new build, sail or power, takes about three years to complete and when the Covid pandemic hit I started thinking I didn’t want to wait that long.That’s when we thought about refitting an existing yacht and with Mario acting as broker we came across the explorer Aspire, originally Etra, which was very similar in terms of size and style to the concept <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nauta Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Nauta</a> had designed for me. I liked her powerful lines and solid construction, and she was in good condition. We realised that with some adjustments we could bring her even more in line with my original concept without losing a cruising season in the Med, and that was the spark that triggered the whole exercise. The boat went into the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a> shipyard in Livorno in October 2020 and she was ready for the 2021 summer season.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220139/image/large-21cf68372f67a404be474b1b416d292c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220139">The Mediterranean is not short of dedicated refit yards; why did you decide on&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a>?There were three or four yards on our short list, but <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a> has the infrastructure, professionalism and technical know-how to ensure a job well done. Of course, they also have the connection with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> and can draw on a whole network of suppliers and subcontractors between Genoa and Livorno. I’m based in Milan, so Livorno was handy for visiting the yard and I had a good relationship with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Azimut-Benetti</a> president Paolo Vitelli. I put <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a> under a lot of pressure because I wanted the boat to be finished quickly and I wasn’t prepared to accept much in the way of compromises, but they responded to the challenge and did a superb job in record time.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220146/image/large-02057d7af12ec790d445ece9665f6a86.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220146">Would you recommend other owners to refit or convert at a time when new build slots are in short supply?For sure. Refitting a yacht that it still relatively young – Etra was originally launched in 2007 – makes a lot of sense. We gave new life to an existing vessel and avoided the conspicuous consumption of building a new one. It’s a bit like recycling in a way. If a yacht is designed, built and maintained properly it can last for decades, and it’s no coincidence that some of the most beautiful boats around today are among the oldest. So whichever way you look at it, refitting is a smart choice. Of course, every owner has different desires and requirements and if they can’t find a suitable pre-owned yacht for refitting then they should build a new one with the latest technology and efficient propulsion systems. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220137/image/large-563f3b6493fe6b826a5ac35738cbc651.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220137">You mention efficiency: I believe the remodelled stern section of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1798" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Masquenada51.0m (167'4&quot;)Penglai2007">Masquenda</a>&nbsp;led to improved hydrodynamics and performance?The transom was restyled to provide an open platform and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2051" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="NAMES by Francesco Rogantin (Company)">Francesco Rogantin</a> designed a whole new aft section. This meant a longer waterline length, which together with new propellers improved not only the hydrodynamic efficiency but also meant we gained around a knot of top speed, which was very satisfying. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1798" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Masquenada51.0m (167'4&quot;)Penglai2007">Masquenada</a> doesn’t burn a lot of fuel and she recently crossed the Atlantic averaging 150 litres of fuel per hour at just over 11 knots in stern seas and four-metre waves. Her two <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> 3,508 engines only had 5,000 hours on them, but they were overhauled and we fitted a new exhaust system and more fuel-efficient Kohler generators. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220140/image/large-d5209b8a8fc8fc94b6dc2b8f1673c1ca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220140">What were the most important modifications in terms of how you intend using the yacht?I wanted to free up the open aft deck as much as possible, so we did away with the old crane and installed a new heavy-duty crane with a 7-metre reach that disappears into its own compartment under the deck. We needed the crane because we carry an amphibious Iguana on board for exploring even the shallowest water, which weighs almost 5 tonnes when full of fuel. When in the Med we have a 48-foot Maxi Dolphin chase boat, which was also designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nauta Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Nauta</a>.&nbsp;Cutting down the bulwarks meant we can also use the aft deck for heli operations – an important safety factor when you’re in remote locations and may have to evacuate someone.&nbsp;I have all the space I need on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1798" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Masquenada51.0m (167'4&quot;)Penglai2007">Masquenada</a> to live comfortably at sea for weeks at a time. There’s always a valid argument for adding an a metre or two to the length, but I don’t see the point of huge yachts of 100 metres or more. For the kind of bluewater cruising I want to do a yacht between 50-60 metres is ideal: she has enough room to comfortably accommodate a dozen guests, but much bigger and I wouldn’t be able to access the out-of-the-way places I want to visit. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220141/image/large-9a5d84c406b7b77c18f73a540f148b35.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220141">Where did you go for your first cruise in the Med last summer?We joined the yacht in Samos and &nbsp;went down to Castellorizo just off the Turkish coast, visiting other islands along the way. We were able to get into all the small bays and inlets and lay a land anchor, something we couldn’t do with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="My Song39.6m (129'11&quot;)Baltic Yachts2016">My Song</a> because, despite her lifting keel, she had a minimum draft twice that of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1798" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Masquenada51.0m (167'4&quot;)Penglai2007">Masquenada</a>. Then we went to the Lesser Cyclades and Polyaigos, which for me is one of the most beautiful islands in the eastern Med, and Kythira at the south-eastern tip of the Peloponnese peninsula. By September we were in Capri and the Aeolian islands, and we finished the cruise in Taormina, Sicily. By the time the boat returned to the shipyard to prepare for the Atlantic crossing, we had done most of what we had dreamt of doing when we started the refit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1798" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Masquenada51.0m (167'4&quot;)Penglai2007">Masquenada</a>, so in that sense it was brilliant. &nbsp;Does that mean you’ve now abandoned sail for power?Not at all! As I said at the beginning, I’ve just split the racing and cruising. Sailing and the sea has always been my hobby and I’m building a high-performance, 82-foot racer with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/313" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautor's Swan (Company)">Nautor’s Swan</a> designed by<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4665" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Juan Kouyoumdjian (Company)">&nbsp;Juan K [Kouyoumdijan]</a>. In the meantime I bought a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/313" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautor's Swan (Company)">Swan</a> 36 to keep my hand in, although I think my children have raced her more than me because now I’m older and put on a bit of weight I appreciate something more in the maxi size. In fact, I also took part in the J/80 worlds and had a lot of fun, but realised I need an 80-footer rather than an 8-metre!The new boat is what I would call a perfect compromise, a word a lot of competitive yachtsmen don’t like. In performance terms she’s modern without being out on the edge, because I don’t see the point of building something that in three years’ time will be obsolete like an America’s Cup boat. To borrow an expression from the automotive world, you could call her a gran turismo as she can still be used for sporty day cruising. She’s due to launch at end of April and I’m hoping our first regatta will be the Tre Golfi Sailing Week in Sorrento in May. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220134/image/large-4a9bed7d79a6a6f93ce325809499ea4c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220134">And what’s next for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1798" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Masquenada51.0m (167'4&quot;)Penglai2007">Masquenada</a>?A few days ago the boat arrived in the Turks and Caicos Islands. After transiting the Panama Canal, the idea is to spend a season or two in the Pacific visiting Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, maybe the Seychelles and Madagascar in the Indian Ocean, and return via the Red Sea or by Africa and the Cape of Good Hope. We’re planning to cruise the world aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1798" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Masquenada51.0m (167'4&quot;)Penglai2007">Masquenada</a> for more or less the time it would have taken to build a new yacht! &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220144/image/large-08bdaee9b13ae1bc3a142bbb99c1892e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220144">

Loro Piana interview on the refit of Masquenada

Pier Luigi Loro Piana 

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Masquenada yacht aft deck

Masquenada yacht cruising

Masquenada yacht in-build at Lusben

My Song yacht in Porto Cervo

Justin Ratcliffe sat down with Loro Piana, famed racer and yacht owner, to discuss the refit of the 51m Masquenada.

Exclusive interview: Pier Luigi Loro Piana on the refit of Masquenada 

“I constantly evaluated our production standards in Croatia and have recognised opportunities for real improvement. There's a common perception that Italian and German craftsmanship are the benchmarks, so we're motivated by the question: how can we elevate our standards and excel beyond expectations here in Croatia?” remarked Antonio Ivanisevic, co-founder and CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a>, during a meeting at this year’s <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>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336087/image/large-ee474d3df29dc74a3870a4c760d78a38.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336087">Based in the vibrant Port of Krilo in Jesenice, Croatia, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a> has carved out a niche in building large sailing yachts. Since its inception, the shipyard has launched three sailing superyachts: the 48.24-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12541" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Clase Azul48.24m (158'3&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2022">Clase Azul</a> in 2022, the 52.3-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12688" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scorpios52.3m (171'7&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2023">Scorpios</a> in 2023, and the 53-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13240" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reposado53.0m (173'11&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2024">Reposado</a> this year. <a href="http://superyachttimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Superyacht Times</a> Features Writer Enrico Chhibber met with Ivanisevic to discuss the origins of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a>, the trends in the Croatian yachting market, and the company's future plans.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/249302/image/large-2995788e3ec8e52199abb970538690d1.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/249302">Deep Croatian roots&nbsp;On the origins of the name <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana</a>, Ivanisevic elucidated that it is a blend of Slavic and Italian, reflecting the family's heritage and symbolising a wind that comes from the mountains. He added, “Krilio is renowned for its very pleasant winds.”Delving into his background, Ivanisevic shared that he was born in Melbourne, Australia, as his family sought refuge from the war in Croatia in 1991. His mother is Italian and his father Croatian. “We moved back when I was young, in the early 2000s, and I grew up in Krilo, a small coastal town on the Dalmatian coast,” he remarked. From a young age, Ivanisevic felt a profound connection to the sea and his Croatian heritage, noting his family's 13-generation lineage from the Split region on his father’s side. “Having worked as a barman on boats and later as a cruise manager, I’ve always been passionate about the sea and serving people,” he explained.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336088/image/large-f86ca04024d9b798a74c86f0023f7d15.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336088">The founding of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yacht</a>sWhen asked about his inspirations for founding <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a>, Ivanisevic cited a significant historical figure in his family. “One of my biggest inspirations was my father’s great-uncle, Don Frane, a senator and a priest three generations ago,” he explained. Don Frane was deeply involved in the export-import business, trading wine and oil with Italy using boats that were simply equipped, with just a captain’s cabin. Ivanisevic continued, “He was a visionary, investing heavily in people’s education – a rarity at the time – &nbsp;and developing financial institutions like a treasury bank, to promote regional development.” Don Frane also contributed to the infrastructure of their hometown, developing the port area in Krilo, which is now being transformed into a marina by the Croatian government.Today, the port in Kirilo is home to around 60 houses and accommodates approximately 300 boats, including many large yachts. He noted, however, that many of these 'yachts' are actually mini-cruise ships and day boats, built in Croatia and owned by Croatians. Discussing the motivation behind founding <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana</a>, Ivanisevic explained it stemmed from the contradiction he saw between subpar finishing on Croatian day boats, and the international acclaim for Croatian craftsmanship. “We often hear from other shipyards, especially in the Netherlands, that Croatian welders are among the best,” Ivanisevic commented. “This led me to question, why can’t we do it ourselves, and do it better right here in Croatia?"<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336089/image/large-04fd569dfe074819ac77a967ed4b52fd.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336089">Building the businessIvanisevic elaborated on his entry into the yacht chartering business, managing bookings personally and encountering numerous remarkable individuals along the way. “These experiences have highlighted the significant, yet often underestimated, role of tourism in our country. We are, in essence, ambassadors of our nation. So why should we settle for mediocrity when we can strive for excellence?” he reflected. Admittedly, he acknowledged, creating a yacht brand was an ambitious venture, but a vision he passionately pursued.As Ivanisevic progressed to the next step of securing financing, he shared his unique approach with potential investors. Insisting on a personal connection before finalising any deals, he even arranged for the investors to meet his family, an introduction that culminated in a barbecue at his mother’s house. After successfully securing the funding, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana</a> acquired a yacht hull during the COVID-19 pandemic, which became <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12541" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Clase Azul48.24m (158'3&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2022">Clase Azul</a>. This initiative was soon followed by the construction and launches of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12688" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scorpios52.3m (171'7&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2023">Scorpios</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13240" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reposado53.0m (173'11&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2024">Reposado</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/307841/image/large-3f3cff2b1a812a243903373ce5b5c03b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/307841">Construction capacity<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana</a>’s construction capacity is of two new-builds per year, for projects of up to 70-metres in length, as detailed by Ivanisevic. “All processes are managed in-house, with each project initiated six months apart,” he stated. The decision to cap yacht sizes at 70-metres is strategic as “the size is the maximum our team feels comfortable managing, allowing us to maintain quality without significant risk,” he noted.Initially, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a> chose to focus exclusively on sailing yachts. Reasons for this cited by Ivanisevic &nbsp;included the fact that: “Producing sailing yachts uniquely positions our brand in the Croatian market, where we are the sole shipyard pursuing this niche.” He added that, “this strategic approach not only enhances the distinctiveness of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a> but also avoids mimicking existing designs.” The production rate set at one 50-metre vessel every 12 months was designed to make a significant impact quickly. Each yacht is crafted with comfort as a priority, primarily targeting the charter market.” This focus has yielded success, despite sailing yachts traditionally having a narrower appeal, emphasising pleasure over performance, shared the founder.In terms of clientele, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a> serves a global market, predominantly attracting customers from North America, the UK, and Europe, with a growing presence in other regions. When it comes to the design of the yachts, Ivanisevic, along with his brothers, prioritises the guest's perspective. “First, we build for the client's needs, then we construct everything else around that,” he detailed. A notable highlight is the ample space and the toy garage, designed to enhance client satisfaction. “After establishing these key elements, we ensure that everything else follows suit,” he added.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284799/image/large-6aea6d7d4a95a56298c6436d0861a805.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284799">Croatian market&nbsp;Croatia has increasingly become an attractive destination for yacht charters. Ivanisevic attributes this to several factors: Croatia's progress, its recent entry into the Schengen Area, the growing recognition of the country's beauty, its reputation as a safe destination, and the development of more marina infrastructure.Croatia has traditionally not been associated with new-build superyachts. However, Ivanisevic believes it can position itself as an appealing new player in the market. He explained, “While Dutch and German craftsmanship are renowned for their high quality, they come at a high cost. Turkish construction costs are also on the rise, and Italy, despite being a major yacht building hub, has also seen an increase in prices. In contrast, costs in Croatia are generally lower than in Italy and Turkey, making it an increasingly attractive option for potential buyers.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/318724/image/large-3d3f1624fac652f547408a80edf788e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/318724"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/318760/image/large-ce9ef116c84748f7b71511d23f09acde.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/318760">Future plans and developmentsIvanisevic shared insights into the ambitious future plans for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a>. He revealed that the company is in the process of acquiring a significantly larger yard to expand their facilities. “Our focus will shift more towards new-builds, including series-built sailing yachts and motor yachts. We are also exploring the potential of opening a refit division,” he stated. The decision to expand into motor yachts is driven by increasing brand awareness and demand. Ivanisevic is confident about the brand's association with Croatia, emphasising, “When people think of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana</a>, they think of quality, safety, and the best of Croatia. We aim to represent our country in the finest way possible.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/318736/image/large-865bf4ae03f206b90245d9730bc64bc1.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/318736">

Antonio Ivanisevic on founding Tramontana Yachts

Discover how Tramontana Yachts elevates Croatian craftsmanship. CEO Antonio Ivansevic shares their journey, recent launches, and future plans.

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Pleasant winds: Antonio Ivanisevic on founding Tramontana Yachts

When considering Spain, attention often centres on its well-established cruising destinations, refit facilities, and marina infrastructure, rather than on yacht design. Yet, standing apart from this, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Marcelo Penna</a>, founder of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Marcelo Penna Group</a> in Barcelona since 1984, has emerged as a key figure in the Spanish yacht design landscape, with expertise spanning both exterior and interior design.Originally from Argentina, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> moved to Spain in 1976. His portfolio showcases a diverse range of yachts. These include the 65.2-metre Phinisi sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5648" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lamima65.2m (213'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2014">Lamima</a>, the 59-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4624" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Metalships & Docks S.A. (Company)">Metalships &amp; Docks</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3189" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maybe59.0m (193'7&quot;)Metalships & Docks S.A.2016">Maybe</a>, the 28.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/978" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monty North (Company)">Monty North</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7380" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Free At Last 28.8m (94'6&quot;)Monty North2000">Free At Last</a>, and the 25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moreno Pujal (Company)">Moreno Pujal</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3457" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blalumar25.0m (82'0&quot;)Moreno Pujal2000">Blalumar</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a>'s work also extends beyond pleasure craft to include the design of commercial vessels.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332613/image/large-9d1733fb10c8e9b8336a013e1e6bdd99.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332613"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> is extensively involved in the latest <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> new-build, a 37.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">CdP</a> Custom explorer yacht, where he is responsible for both the exterior and interior design as well as the naval architecture. The discussion explored his entry into the yachting industry, his collaboration with <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>, the diverse yachts he has designed, and the future plans for his design house.Entrance to the yachting industryBorn in Argentina, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> has had a passion for racing sailing yachts since his childhood. With a background in civil engineering, he moved to Barcelona, in Spain, where he worked in architecture for a year. “At that time in Barcelona, there was only one school, a sailing school here in Barcelona, and they asked me to be a partner. So I left architecture and started to sail. The sailing school operated from May to October, and during the winter, we would assist shipyards or transport vessels and yachts,” recounted <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;He described his entry into yacht design as accidental, beginning with a desire to design a boat for himself. "By chance, I found a mould of a hull behind an old sailing school building. I asked around, ‘What is this?’ They told me it belonged to a businessman, so I asked, ‘Do you have his contact details?’ They gave me a phone number. It turned out to be a very nice racing 46 foot sailing boat designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="German Frers (Company)">Germán Frers</a>,” he added.Continuing the story, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> clarified that he initially tried to buy the hull to build a boat for himself. “At that time, I was collaborating with a shipyard, and I met the owner at the yacht club here in Barcelona," he recalled. "He saw me drawing a new interior design on an A4 leaflet and asked what I was doing. I told him that I found this hull and was trying to buy it to make myself a nice racing sailing boat.”The owner then asked <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> to design a similar boat for him, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> agreed, noting: "We didn't discuss time or money; that was really the extent of our conversation." He continued, stating: "three months later, I called him and presented the design for a 47-footer. He liked it and said, alright, I will build it.’ That was how it all began, just as simple as that.”After establishing his eponymous label, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> transitioned from designing small racing sailing yachts to creating both sailing and motor superyachts. He described this shift as a “natural evolution,” driven by customer demand for larger sailing yachts and motor yachts.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Marcelo Penna Group</a>To <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a>, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Marcelo Penna Group</a> can be characterised as a "one-stop studio," involved in every aspect of yacht design, from exterior styling and structural work to interior design." He credits his multifaceted approach to his background as a civil architect. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272616/image/large-4d02988bb40a3093e5f7d97d21b314f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272616">Other services provided by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Marcelo Penna Group</a> in the superyacht sector include refit consultancy and the supply of technical equipment for charter yachts, such as water toys, bed linen, and crockery. "We have worked with several yachts, including the 72-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/928" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dunya Yachts (Company)">Dunya</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2390" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Axioma72.0m (236'3&quot;)Dunya Yachts2013">Axioma</a>," <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> outlined "We design and create new spaces for customers onboard and have completed numerous refits, from staterooms to other areas. For example, we have added features to helipads and redesigned gyms."The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Marcelo Penna Group</a>'s services also extend to commercial vessels, encompassing various types, including ferries, passenger vessels, and cargo ships. The company is also active in the car racing sector, collaborating with a supply chain company that builds batteries for the Formula E Extreme series, an international off-road racing competition featuring electric SUVs that race in remote locations around the world, such as the Arctic.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272602/image/large-ff67cb960f942fa177d50a4dfcac625f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272602">Penna also highlighted that the group is a family firm. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a>'s wife contributes to the styling, while both his son and daughter are also actively involved in the business. "My son works both at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/97" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 Barcelona (Company)">MB92</a> and with us (...) and my daughter, who recently completed her studies in interior architecture in Paris, has been working with the firm for the past seven years. The whole family is involved in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Marcelo Penna Group</a>," he emphasised. Today, the firm has a global presence, with additional bases in Monaco and in Houston, Texas.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272619/image/large-4727695bf79e0f1eb03d73fae79e421c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272619">Key projectsThe largest yacht he has designed, for which he oversaw both the exterior design as well as naval architecture, is the 65.2-metre Phinisi yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5648" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lamima65.2m (213'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2014">Lamima</a>, delivered in 2014. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> explained that he first became involved in the project and began working with Phinisi yachts after being &nbsp;introduced to the client by a captain he knew from an <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA</a> 47 superyacht. "The client proposed that I design and build a Phinisi," he said. "But they wanted the largest and safest Phinisi ever built. We became the first to classify a Phinisi with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1457" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RINA (Company)">RINA</a>; it was the largest of its kind at that time, constructed entirely of wood."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227423/image/large-ba211dd267d2ded2385225c4a16658a0.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227423"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a>’s current main yacht project is a custom 37.5-metre explorer yacht by <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>. He revealed that the project originated through a network of brokers from Nice who introduced him to a client."The client had very specific requirements and was looking for something unique. We initially began our search in northern Spain, but then it expanded to Italy, leveraging contacts there. Eventually, we reached <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>, where we closed the deal.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/320474/image/large-1ea029972a837c0745b0bd82df929491.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/320474">Spanish design landscapePenna also shared insight into the state of the Spanish yachting industry, particularly in terms of construction and design, and why it has not developed as significantly as in other southern Mediterranean countries like Italy, France, and Turkey, despite being very present in the refit market for large superyachts. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> noted that while the sector–especially the sailing and motor yacht segments–was growing, a significant cultural challenge existed in Spain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233768/image/large-7346fff05e0b4fd8140ee6fd46062ecb.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233768">“The problem,” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> pointed, “is rooted in the history and political developments during the Franco era. Yachting was seen as an exclusive activity for the elite–a very closed group. No ordinary person could afford a yacht in Spain. This exclusivity, combined with a lack of state support for yacht construction, has hindered the industry's growth–a significant loss, given the substantial number of jobs that yacht construction can create."However, as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> explained, "with French influence, the industry began to develop, and a few sailing yacht shipyards emerged, such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/747" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mefasa (Company)">Mefasa</a>, which built the 41.33-metre sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2262" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alejandra41.33m (135'7&quot;)Mefasa1993">Alejandra</a>. Another notable shipyard, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa</a>, specialises in motor yacht construction."<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> attributed the lack of Spanish designers in the superyacht sector to a cultural perception that historically viewed yacht design as more of a frivolous occupation rather than a serious profession, unlike commercial vessel design. Despite these challenges, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> believes the direction of the yacht design landscape in Spain is on the right track, with many dedicated professionals now working to drive the industry forward. "It will, however, take time for these efforts to yield their full impact," he emphasised.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233766/image/large-368a521574acf916a6065f8b8d50a50e.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233766">Expansion and sustainabilityRegarding future plans, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> revealed that his company will be expanding its presence to Mexico and Istanbul. One of the latest ventures is The Wattio, a new initiative aimed at leveraging the company's extensive knowledge in both naval architecture and electric vehicle (EV) technology. "The idea behind The Wattio," <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> shared, "is to provide an integrated solution to shipyards or customers combining all our expertise, from naval architecture and engineering, to electrical systems and propulsion."<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marcelo Penna (Company)">Penna</a> underlined that the company is also focusing on implementing more sustainable solutions. "We are working with hybrid systems and exploring new fuels, such as ammonia, methanol, and hydrogen. In recent months, we have been testing hydrogen fuel cells here in Barcelona, including a hydrogen-powered truck currently operating in the city. Our aim is to apply these technologies not only to vehicles but also to boats."<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa (Company)</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/322171/image/large-076cb3cc3e28a1fe3331269dc1adc6ef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/322171">

Marcelo Penna: A spectrum of yacht designs and insights into the Spanish yacht design landscape

Marcelo Penna, founder of the Marcelo Penna Group in Barcelona since 1984, has emerged as a key figure in the Spanish yacht design landscape.

Marcelo Penna: Exploring his diverse yacht designs and insights into the Spanish yacht design landscape

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

Harrison Eidsgaard yacht designers

Francesca Webster visits Harrison Eidsgaard’s new Richmond studio to hear about the evolution and future of the studio.

Harrison Eidsgaard on collaboration, the art of perspective and their new studio

how sustainable is teak decking

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Tainted Teak: The yachting industry's shift to sustainable decking

superyachts featured in films

SuperYachtTimes takes a closer look at the superyachts that have gifted our screens with an injection of added opulence.

Our favourite star-studded superyachts on film and TV

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

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

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

Broker Insights: Adam Sutton, from sailing to sales

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

Meet the Italian designer informing China's superyacht sector

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

From a Picasso painting seized upon the 65-metre yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1613" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adix64.85m (212'9&quot;)Astilleros de Mallorca S.A.1984">Adix</a> to Basquiats hanging beside champagne bars, there is an art to collecting art for your superyacht, and it comes with a host of obligations and practicalities. Swerving pirates, the real threat to offshore masterpieces, can be as simple as a lack of crew training, a flying champagne cork, or sailing unchartered waters. As the value of these floating galleries is often equated to that of the yacht itself, the intricacies surrounding how to understand, transport, store, and preserve art onboard are broadening. With specialist tax lawyers to educational programmes for staff onboard, owners have many resources for logistical and practical solutions to ensure a secure floating gallery.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> Digital Editor Emma Becque spoke with experts about how best to safeguard precious gallery-worthy content onboard superyachts.Art appreciation and training<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artonsuperyachts (Company)">ArtOnSuperyachts</a>, founded by Oxford-educated art historian Pandora Mather-Lees, provides training and consultancy services for managing and preserving art collections on international yachts. After working at Hedley's Group, a fine art shipper, Pandora gained an intricate insight into the world of superyachts and the lack of training for those onboard handling the art in yachting. Thanks to her expertise, she strategised a company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artonsuperyachts (Company)">ArtOnSuperyachts</a> consisting of training &nbsp;courses featuring &nbsp;a catalogue of modules which offer practical training and troubleshooting for those handling and caring for the art while at sea. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295120/image/large-acf5843d7bfbbfd1f7722111edbcd123.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295120">Pandora notes how her “art history module is one of my most popular. It exemplifies how the crew are eager to learn more about various art collections they are surrounded with." The modules take an in-depth approach with graduates understanding the pieces and also able to clarify the difference between abstract and figurative. "This module is essential when you have some of the world's most valuable collections onboard. When explaining the collections, the crew can delve deeper with guests, making this training beneficial for the crew and the owners.”The 12-module training, available both online and in-person, is designed for those interested in enhancing their careers and knowledge in handling valuable objects at home, institutions, or on superyachts. This training is vital for interior crew, captains, yacht management, shipyards, designers, training companies, and marine project managers to avoid serious financial repercussions.Other training modules by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artonsuperyachts (Company)">ArtOnSuperyachts</a> include:Art Appreciation: Enhancing crew understanding of the value and significance of onboard art, fostering better relationships with owners and yacht management.Care &amp; Conservation: Addressing the challenges of handling fine and decorative arts on vessels, focusing on climate control, placement, and maintenance.Legal Export Risks: Highlighting the importance of understanding regulations governing cultural objects for captains, yacht management, and senior interior crew.The online training offers four levels, ranging from Art Appreciation to Art Due Diligence, while the classroom program covers a wide range of topics over one or two days, including art history, insurance, and understanding the art market. Additionally, private lectures focus on cultural heritage in maritime environments, catering to select groups and directly teaching yacht crews.Commission rather than collect&nbsp;An alternative to an art collection is to commission and curate your works of art, moulded explicitly to meet the function and form of the yacht itself. Founded in 2012 in Bristol, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier</a> has rapidly become a cornerstone in art consultancy, specialising in superyachts. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier</a> emerged to fill this niche with expertise and art knowledge, recognising a gap in expertise traditionally served by interior designers. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284223/image/large-66058aea2786ab0722eae73533a25a58.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284223">David Knowles, Founder and Creative Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier</a>, is confident of his catalogue of artists' talents and return on investment when highlighting a recent project. “For a recent <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/601" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Falcon Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Falcon Yachts</a> project, we collaborated closely with the client, taking charge of the entire art package. The interior design firm facilitated the connection between us and the client, allowing us to work directly with them. The project had a distinct theme revolving around the concept of “Lucine”, which translates to “Moon” in Armenian. As a result, all the artwork we curated and presented to the client had a meaningful connection to the moon and the celestial realm.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243145/image/large-77c71b609b346f6786c94e408e1d5a16.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243145"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier's</a> approach to sourcing artists is dynamic and inclusive, encompassing art fairs, galleries, online research, and studio visits. They are open to artists of all backgrounds, valuing quality over formal qualifications. Their selection criteria include originality, technical skill, innovative use of materials, and the potential for growth and evolution in an artist's work.Collaborating closely with designers, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier</a> engages in projects at various stages, from initial concepts to final touches, ensuring art significantly influences the design process. For yacht interiors, they prioritise unique and handcrafted artworks, avoiding mass-produced items. This preference aligns with the current trend towards sustainable art, using natural or recycled materials.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier's</a> notable yacht project was for the “67.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6200" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Neninka67.6m (221'9&quot;)Amels2019">Neninka</a> (ex. Aurora Borealis), where they “had the privilege of collaborating with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch Design</a> to curate the entire art package for Neninka. One of the standout features of this project was a remarkable 5-metre-long curved wall in the owner’s suite is adorned with pure gold leaf. This wall created a captivating focal point within the space. The inspiration for this feature wall stemmed from the client’s interest in Mount Fuji. We incorporated shades of gold leaf to bring depth and dimension to the design, capturing the essence of the owner’s passion. Considering the yacht’s purpose as a charter vessel and its availability for sale, the aesthetic was intentionally kept neutral, ensuring it would appeal to a wide range of potential buyers. Our goal was to harmonise the art with the interior design scheme, seamlessly blending it into the ambience of the yacht.This gold leaf wall stands as a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and the ability to create a bespoke art piece that aligns perfectly with the owner’s vision and the overall design concept. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artelier (Company)">Artelier</a> is evolving rapidly, with Knowles noting recent trends when observing how owners opt for “sustainable choices; while not necessarily new in the art world, artists have been incorporating recycled materials and traditional craftsmanship for years. It is gratifying to resurface artworks from our extensive database, giving them the recognition they deserve in line with this growing trend.”&nbsp;Technological replicationsRather than house an art collection onboard, with tax and legal obligations, it can also be wise to seek out other alternatives. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7446" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arius Technology (Company)">Arius Technology</a>, a leader in art technology, has revolutionised the industry with its 3D digitisation-to-print solution, initially used for analysing the Mona Lisa masterpiece. Collaborating with prestigious institutions like Tate and the National Gallery of Canada, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7446" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arius Technology (Company)">Arius</a> has replicated masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, and many others. Its technology, comprising a 3D colour laser system and a robotic handling system, allows precise replications while preserving the original art.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295114/image/large-d6f9fe7a9f22bd81fd38159df2167f49.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295114">This innovation extends to multiple sectors - from museum-quality reproductions to aiding artists in creating digital and NFT versions of their work. Arius not only enhances art replication and preservation but also bridges traditional and digital art worlds, maintaining the quality, guarding the safety and swerving any challenges of housing museum-quality artworks at sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295113/image/large-479d477956989b38152b9241a4a06d3f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295113" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">The paperworkIn an insightful discussion with Carla Bellieni, a Certified Chartered Accountant and expert in Maritime Tax and Customs Law, the complexities of housing artworks onboard yachts are revealed. Bellieni notes how “In my experience, the most commonly underestimated aspects at the time of purchasing artworks, which may lead to unintentional loss of value, avoidable costs, or damage, include”:&nbsp;<ul><li>The tax aspects are linked to legal classification, where digital artworks or modern pieces may not be classified as art, sometimes more aptly classified as furnishings.</li><li>In customs, incorrect classification can result in tariffs or border rejections. The importance of declaring the origin and value of the artwork for tax and customs is incredibly challenging with international artists and works without a clear market price.&nbsp;</li><li>The connection between the artwork and the geographical mobility of the yacht can complicate tax events due to territorial taxation scopes and customs issues, including restrictions on paintings of national interest.</li><li>The necessity of legal assistance in obtaining proper insurance coverage.</li><li>Anti-Money Laundering (AML) considerations in the transfer of artworks.</li><li>The risk of an inadequately trained crew managing and maintaining artworks, particularly with innovative art mediums, could lead to a total loss of value not covered by insurance.</li></ul>To avoid mishaps in housing artworks on yachts, Bellieni suggests, “It's crucial to approach purchases and planning beyond financial and aesthetic considerations, incorporating legal, tax, insurance, and management aspects.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212321/image/large-170d0b1e08e46ab129f8e4df2c229f65.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212321">Equally, owners “should assemble a specialised team of experts tailored to their specific needs, focusing on the authenticity and legalities of the artwork's purchase and movement. This team must be chosen based on their education, skills, and experience, ensuring that all potential risks and complexities are addressed. This includes understanding the intricacies of tax laws and the dynamic nature of maritime transactions.” For Bellieni, “Pandora of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artonsuperyachts (Company)">ArtOnSuperyachts</a>&nbsp; plays a crucial role in this strategy, aiding in identifying and classifying artworks and providing essential support to the legal team in navigating uncertainties regarding the artworks' classification, origin, and value.”&nbsp;In line with this notion, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artonsuperyachts (Company)">ArtOnSuperyachts</a> offers comprehensive strategies incorporating legal, fiscal, customs, and technical aspects to preserve artwork value and ensure legal compliance. Their courses include Pandora's module on art insurance, and another module focusing on media and materials, addressing optimal art placement onboard to maintain appropriate temperature, light, and heating conditions.

How to collect art onboard superyachts

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

Navigating the choppy waters for collecting art onboard superyachts

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

Exploring the refit of the 88m superyacht Maltese Falcon

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

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

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

Most expensive American superyachts on the market

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

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/223" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dixon Yacht Design (Company)">Dixon Yacht Design</a> has revealed the renderings for its 58-metre yacht concept, Pegasus Fly. According to her designer, the vessel is crafted for sailing enthusiasts who prioritise sustainability without sacrificing performance or functionality.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/358006/image/large-affd1b349d4fd78e1d1abf5c82d04fc6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/358006">The 500 GT yacht sports an almost futuristic, minimalist design constructed partly from recycled aluminium alloy. Pegasus Fly also incorporates a propeller energy recovery system and solar energy harvesting technology that accentuates her eco-conscious design.One of her standout features is the deck layout, which complements the sleek, powerful lines of her hull with a sense of refined balance. Additionally, her low-profile flybridge layout ensures optimal visibility for the captain from both the port and starboard helm stations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/358002/image/large-b50c0025587f00d29a42c85ea1b919aa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/358002"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/223" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dixon Yacht Design (Company)">Dixon Yacht Design</a> highlights the yacht’s performance, noting, “The headsails are set up with a large overlapping genoa, a 105 percent blade and an off-wind Code sail on a subdeck furling unit.” Designer Anders Berg adds, “A delivery removable staysail on mast lock and subdeck tensioner,” underscoring Pegasus Fly’s capacity for fast cruising.Inside, the saloon can be found on the main deck, paving the way for panoramic views that stretch across the horizon. Her patio doors open to the aft deck, while both internal and external staircases provide access to the flybridge.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/358004/image/large-60ca9e567ac71ab96b3ebd4108313de1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/358004">The owner’s suite provides direct access to the aft beach area, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. She can also host guests in four generously sized staterooms located in the aft section of the yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/358003/image/large-48cd2cf8c04bfa28cc6b5a95eeb87074.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/358003">Furthermore, Pegasus Fly creates seamless access to the sea and offers stowage for toys and tenders, making it ideal for water-based activities.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/358005/image/large-befdb0f9cd94b58f6d13484373df1289.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/358005">To underscore the vessel’s commitment to sustainability, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/223" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dixon Yacht Design (Company)">Dixon Yacht Design</a> emphasised, “The lower deck is effectively on one level and located above two battery banks, which harvest propeller-powered regenerative energy whilst sailing."

58m concept yacht Pegasus Fly by Dixon Yacht Design

Dixon Yacht Design has released the renderings of Pegasus Fly, a 58-metre motor yacht concept designed for sustainability and functionality.

Pegasus Fly: The 58m yacht concept for functionality and sustainability

The 30.21-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/463" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Barcos Deportivos S.L. (Company)">Barcos Deportivos</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alarife Cien30.21m (99'1&quot;)Barcos Deportivos S.L.2006">Alarife Cien</a> has joined the market with Arne Ploch of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a>.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357986/image/large-c44936ed03406827d67700550872b164.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357986">Delivered in 2006 and refitted in 2015, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/alarife-cien/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Alarife Cien for sale</a> features exterior design and naval architecture both crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="German Frers (Company)">German Frers</a>, while her interior styling was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/465" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Iñigo Güell (Company)">Iñigo Güell</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/464" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Barracuda Yacht Design Ltd. (Company)">Barracuda Yacht Design</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357989/image/large-23c67835127c59bd7ca8c7e59d5398ac.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357989"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357996/image/large-f4d9347f90bd9a0d9fb6faff662b624d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357996"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357994/image/large-0a7449be7fc065d84b429d5079e15731.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357994">At a volume of 89 GT, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/sailing/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">sailing yacht for sale</a> is able to host as many as six guests across three voluminous twin staterooms, all of which have ensuite facilities. Located forward, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alarife Cien30.21m (99'1&quot;)Barcos Deportivos S.L.2006">Alarife Cien</a>’s master suite is complete with his-and-hers bathrooms for maximum comfort. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357997/image/large-072f5756ede225f3928f91211074bf23.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357997"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357998/image/large-c93a042be90c0709928f41194ac3e3de.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357998"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357999/image/large-9886d7ef8d9d7fbb2152b6b83ba4c13b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357999">Each of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alarife Cien30.21m (99'1&quot;)Barcos Deportivos S.L.2006">Alarife Cien</a>’s features has been developed for top notch performance and endurance. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a>’s sailing performance is enhanced by her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2447" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Spars (Company)">Southern Spars</a> carbon mast and a recent rigging upgrade that took place in 2021.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/358001/image/large-dd2380a75730a2f617879864cc49383b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/358001"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357995/image/large-095c43aa2c4ecb9e7ad8936b292f3be9.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357995"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357992/image/large-bef0eabc7c711168473291c4bda4df21.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357992">Regarding entertainment, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alarife Cien30.21m (99'1&quot;)Barcos Deportivos S.L.2006">Alarife Cien</a> is home to a protected guest cockpit for comfortable socialising while under sail, while a dedicated aft steering area with twin helm stations provides clear command. Furthermore, her integrated tender garage converts into a generous swim platform, facilitating immersion with the surrounding seascape.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357991/image/large-c0dc88be7eeb0a3d45d9dc179444fbea.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357991"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357987/image/large-7c24b84b0d8369f6f1f2d8564068d12d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357987">When it comes to her performance, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/barcos-deportivos/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Barcos Deportivos yacht for sale</a> is powered by a single <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perkins Sabre (Company)">Perkins Sabre</a> engine that propels her to a cruising speed of nine knots and a top speed of 11 knots. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357985/image/large-eee4c64593819c5f788d20a50602a4a5.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357985">

30m sailing yacht Alarife Cien for sale 

The 30.21-metre sailing yacht Alarife Cien has joined the market with Arne Ploch of Camper & Nicholsons International. 


30m world-class performance cruiser yacht Alarife Cien for sale 

A fire broke out in the early afternoon of Tuesday 22 April at a warehouse belonging to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautica Acqua Srl (Company)">Nautica Acqua</a> shipyard in the industrial zone of Cala Saccaia, Olbia.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357978/image/large-697a0bdbb337cc64e2fd234e6620ce9b.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357978">According to local news outlets, the fire is believed to have destroyed approximately 40 vessels stored inside, with estimated damages running into the millions of euros. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a vast plume of black smoke visible for miles, with emergency services responding to the incident.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357974/image/large-4e39a439fced3b1754c108be6bbd60fc.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357974"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357970/image/large-bebcef2a8b8bd479ae95125d8ef76544.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357970">Five teams from the Olbia fire brigade worked through the night to bring the fire under control, with aerial firefighting support, including helicopters and aircraft from Olbia airport deployed to monitor and suppress the flames.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357975/image/large-3571e1653deda0129ab4e4b1dd946d04.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357975"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357971/image/large-83783238e74aba3a42c9236cc435a97b.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357971">The local authorities have confirmed that the fire did not spread beyond the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautica Acqua Srl (Company)">Nautica Acqua</a> warehouse, with all employees at the shipyard safely evacuated and no injuries reported. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357974/image/large-4e39a439fced3b1754c108be6bbd60fc.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357974"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357976/image/large-b339295fad9602309afa75f17041168d.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357976">The affected facility is situated within one of Sardinia’s key maritime industrial areas, which supports a range of yachting activities including winter storage, refit and maintenance services. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautica Acqua Srl (Company)">Nautica Acqua</a> is known to service a variety of vessels, including yachts up to 30 metres in length, many of which are stored on-land during the off-season.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357977/image/large-866290c5a5d072753f0101b8aeb652dc.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357977">An investigation into the cause of the fire will now take place. SuperYacht Times has reached out to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautica Acqua Srl (Company)">Nautica Acqua</a> for comment and will continue to follow this story.&nbsp;

Nautica Acqua: Fire destroys around 40 boats at Olbia shipyard

A fire broke out in the early afternoon of Tuesday 22 April at the Nautica Acqua shipyard in the industrial zone of Cala Saccaia, Olbia.


Fire destroys around 40 boats at Nautica Acqua shipyard in Olbia

The 79-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nympheas79.0m (259'2&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2025">Nympheas</a> has been photographed at anchor in Athens, Greece, following her launch in June 2024 and delivery to her owners in January 2025.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357944/image/large-be22ba386fa5bde56eff78518f6ccec8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357944"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357954/image/large-7a515407ee8cf916cdf0932ea62ee3b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357954"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nympheas79.0m (259'2&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2025">Nympheas</a>, formerly known as Project Toro, was sold in 2021 in a sale facilitated by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise Yachts</a> and Simon Ting of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYachtsMonaco (Company)">SuperYachtsMonaco</a> to a long-term client. She is currently <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise</a>’s largest delivery since the 77-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5999" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Go77.0m (252'7&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2018">Go</a> in 2018, before the title will be taken by the 87-metre in-build yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vento87.0m (285'5&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2025">Vento</a> later this year. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357940/image/large-c230c6a134a1ce77033a3f07f81ab650.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357940"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357953/image/large-5db95ae56320c3291f56800f7e1c8be5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357953">Composed of a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nympheas79.0m (259'2&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2025">Nympheas</a> features exterior design and interior styling conceived by the London-based studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/168" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Harrison Eidsgaard (Company)">Harrison Eidsgaard</a>, while her naval architecture was penned in-house by her Turkish builder. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357946/image/large-b69ff0b3ec6a8dd667f1f53501ed3c21.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357946"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357952/image/large-3f246c9633735eb0c9c8bfec894bf05b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357952">With a volume of 2,146 GT and a beam of 13.2-metres, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nympheas79.0m (259'2&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2025">Nympheas</a> offers plenty of room for guests to enjoy. The yacht’s highlights include her 8.5-metre swimming pool, her Neptune Lounge, cinema, beach club, fully-equipped gym and her deck Jacuzzi.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357939/image/large-a79b40f5385792aafcdca8ea6d9ac4df.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357939"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357945/image/large-e4e243d9c927276fc75acb13c48acf8b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357945">The standout Neptune Lounge is decked out in underwater viewing ports constructed with glass supplied by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7632" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="BCE Glass (Company)">BCE Glass</a> in Turkey. Placed above the waterline are six panes of double-glazed laminated glass, while three more are located below, within a section of the spa situated on the lower aft deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357951/image/large-f2d7fc1d77538c39c08f265290b6c895.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357951"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357947/image/large-2f64db98cb55d7f8d2e9ea7f54e58484.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357947">When it comes to her performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nympheas79.0m (259'2&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2025">Nympheas</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines, and has been developed with the flexibility to accommodate a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a>-based hybrid system.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357950/image/large-ce75c0a85e4508d549291ca23c4fc064.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357950"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357949/image/large-f0f164937e03883a18195fce5d50acaa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357949">

79m Turquoise yacht Nympheas in Athens  

The 79-metre Turquoise superyacht Nympheas has been photographed at anchor in Athens, Greece, following her launch in June 2024. 


In pictures: 79m Turquoise superyacht Nympheas in Athens  

With her purposeful profile, steel hull and ocean-roaming capabilities, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a> is a true explorer in every sense. Compact in size yet bold in spirit, this 35.4-metre motor yacht brings together the pedigree of designer Sergio Cutolo, the strength of steel construction and a layout geared towards comfort, autonomy and practical luxury.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340984/image/large-32e7724700d371a1c705baac60a5e36b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340984">SuperYacht Times stepped onboard the 2025 yacht in the Pendik Marina, Turkey for an exclusive walkthrough, to explore every corner of this newly listed yacht for sale and discover what makes <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a> one of the most compelling offerings in today’s explorer segment.Currently for sale with Jeremy Comport and Jack Gradus of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a> features exterior styling and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a>, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dragoni Design Lab (Company)">Dragoni Design Lab</a> crafted her luxurious interiors. During her construction, Emre Kocaderlİ of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8085" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MORE Marine (Company)">MORE Marine</a> acted as the owner's representative. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357762/image/large-8cb111a02c26ac0fdb4ad4b5e199afbc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357762">From the moment you approach <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a>, it’s clear that this is not a vessel that follows trends, she sets them. Her striking high bow, strong angular lines and almost military-influenced aesthetic convey a sense of strength and purpose. Finished in a clean, crisp white with dark window bands, she is unmistakably a yacht that’s been built to venture far beyond the confines of the Mediterranean.Her vertical windows wrap around the main and upper decks, visually elongating the superstructure, while ensuring panoramic views from within. Cutolo’s exterior styling is aggressive yet elegant, with a contemporary edge that feels every bit as refined as it is functional.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340965/image/large-1d55295c3bcaa4419753ef7b5e5f6886.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340965">There’s no doubt: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a> is built for adventure. But she’s equally ready to welcome guests in comfort and style. Stepping aboard via the wide hydraulic swim platform, you enter a world of calm precision. Her aft deck immediately sets the tone, uncluttered, open and bathed in natural light. Teak underfoot and a sculptural staircase to starboard lead the eye up toward the upper decks, while her shaded aft seating area invites relaxed conversation or dining with a view.Sliding glass doors open into the main saloon – a space that feels both expansive and grounded. Soft neutral tones, clean lines and tactile materials like brushed oak and matte lacquered finishes create a modern, almost Nordic atmosphere. Nothing is ostentatious. Everything is intentional.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340971/image/large-0080c75be12498628e4d0349fd8e99db.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340971">The brief for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a> was clear, to create a space that was “trendy, modern, comfortable and open to the landscape.” Natural light plays a central role in the experience and reflecting materials are placed strategically next to windows to amplify brightness. In contrast, the broader palette leans into understated luxury, with elegant matte finishes grounding the airy ambiance.Ceilings are kept light and subtly varied in finish, matte beside gloss, to add dimensionality. Doors and blind boxes feature rounded corners framed in brushed aluminium, reinforcing the yacht’s theme of softness meeting structure. While artwork from local artists is thoughtfully displayed in recessed, brushed-framed niches, adding authenticity and cultural richness.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340976/image/large-c837d47bf792925e4eb1ea8061cd94d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340976">The saloon itself is arranged with versatility in mind. A comfortable seating area to port is perfectly positioned for enjoying both the scenery and the concealed television to starboard. The formal dining area forward, set beneath a custom-designed lighting panel, seats 10 with ease and benefits from exceptional natural light, thanks to her oversized windows.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357770/image/large-fcb2f886df01123250a9156ead78bf9d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357770">Every surface and every fitting feels solid, considered and built to last, reinforcing the notion that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a> has been designed not just to impress at anchor, but to function seamlessly during extended time at sea. Cleverly designed panels conceal her technical elements, instead turning these essential elements into works of art. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340977/image/large-b31df11ba4568445b7fb4946a4b4f1f4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340977"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340979/image/large-45e0aba07bc069922c0c72cd78ca38af.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340979">Forward on the main deck, the full-beam owner’s suite is a retreat in every sense. Entered via a private lobby, the suite features generous dimensions, a king-size bed is positioned centrally, while a walk-in wardrobe and office space can be found upon entry. Vertical panels in Nabuk leather are interspersed with LED accents, while her headboard is crafted from dove grey leather with 3D detailing that seamlessly cradles the bed and floating nightstands.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340983/image/large-1f9911b350afa0d976ba6e07d673f97e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340983">The ensuite bathroom is finished in light Calacatta Cremo marble surfaces with brushed stainless steel accents, featuring a large rainfall shower, twin sinks and excellent storage. The detailing is subtle, but the luxury is very much present, a space designed for peaceful retreat during long passages or quiet mornings at anchor.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340982/image/large-d5ae47bfd86dba923e12d300188cc4ab.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340982">At the heart of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a>'s interior layout is a beautifully executed central staircase, a sculptural element that connects all guest areas from lower to upper deck. Clad in warm-toned wood and Calacatta Cremo marble, nestled within a squared structure wrapped in taupe-coloured leather panels and bordered by brushed stainless steel handrails. Gentle LED strip lighting is recessed beneath each tread, creating a soft glow that guides the way without disturbing the serenity of the space.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340978/image/large-b0b7263eb0f4e52eb4e1c6e1543ea6b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340978">Descending the central staircase brings you to the lower deck, where <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a>'s family-friendly guest layout unfolds. Two ensuite VIP staterooms mirror each other amidships, with spacious wardrobes, large hull windows and soft ambient lighting. Aft are two twin staterooms, also ensuite, each designed with both style and functionality in mind.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357769/image/large-05535462a6a642b5a7cd026e3051ac11.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357769">There’s a real sense of continuity throughout the accommodation: materials, lighting and finishes are consistent, creating a serene onboard atmosphere. The yacht accommodates 10 guests in total, while up to six crew are housed in comfortable quarters forward with a separate mess and laundry area, ensuring a high standard of service and discretion throughout.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340972/image/large-20935a9edcdb62b2cb0279d74cc10bd6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340972">Up one level, the upper deck is a masterclass in flexibility. Her skylounge is bright and open, with a comfortable sofa and a Corian and White Onyx bar area to ensure that guests are always taken care of. This is a room that can transform, a movie night venue, a social gathering space, a private reading lounge, or an informal meeting space, the configurations are endless!<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340967/image/large-08db28e2587f69e48954a2ef4e8aa58e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340967">Aft, the upper deck terrace is made for relaxed outdoor dining. Sheltered by the overhang and ideal for sundowners or evening meals overlooking remote anchorages, thanks to a 10-person alfresco dining table. A cleverly concealed crane allows for the launch and retrieval of tenders, while seamlessly blending into the design of the yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340970/image/large-6e06eb5d82fd83e253dddd7c62db46a9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340970">The foredeck, which is often overlooked on vessels of this size, is instead given full explorer functionality, with another seating area nestled just forward of the wheelhouse, offering guests a private spot to enjoy sweeping views underway or at anchor.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357765/image/large-0da787e33e5a43be7f7df53207f0efb4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357765"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357766/image/large-2ee5ffd180507c0403bb6d1955a468d6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357766">The topmost deck of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a> offers a surprising amount of space for a 35-metre yacht. A seating area is situated aft, while forward is a full wet bar, complete with bar stools and an additional alfresco dining area. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357768/image/large-061db8afbf2a507f2d461dfe7f586b34.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357768">Beneath all the design is serious engineering. With a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a> is built for long-range autonomy. Her displacement hull ensures smooth passages even in challenging sea states, while stabilisation systems and onboard redundancies deliver both comfort and peace of mind.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357767/image/large-45ef469ba4870db249266abc57e9019d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357767">True to her explorer roots, her wheelhouse pays homage to the shipyard’s legacy. In keeping with the traditional interiors of their commercial vessels, green is the dominant colour. Dark green leather upholstery is paired with black-painted oak panelling and Nabuk leather on the ceiling. This combination strikes a compelling balance between heritage and modern luxury and creates a commanding atmosphere for navigation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340966/image/large-a4b4ec48d605d4e1584f530cf5e1efec.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340966"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340969/image/large-f90b9fcd8fe7596571f0abf9add43f80.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340969">Every inch of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a> has been carefully considered. From the reflective placement of materials to the contrasting softness of curves and structured joinery, her interiors tell the story of a yacht that’s equally suited to off-grid adventure and refined living.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357771/image/large-25eabd9522926805b38fb0e2e08dc7b5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357771"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a> combines modern luxury with a robust build that allows her to venture into more remote destinations. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10739" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bee35.4m (116'2&quot;)ART Shipyard2025">Bee</a> boasts zero-speed stabilisers for smooth cruising and anchoring and 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, giving her a top speed of 13 knots, a cruising speed of 12 knots and &nbsp;a range of 4,000 nautical miles at 10 knots.&nbsp;

Bee: The 35m explorer yacht for sale that’s built for adventure

We take a look onboard the 35m explorer yacht Bee, which is built for adventure and currently for sale with Ocean Independence. 

Onboard Bee: The 35m explorer yacht for sale that’s built for adventure!

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a> has unveiled a 196-metre cruise yacht design concept, REI, developed in collaboration with its in-house brands <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">Tillberg Design of Sweden (TDoS)</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7563" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Thalia Marine (Company)">Thalia Marine</a>. While REI is categorised as a cruise yacht, the concept showcases numerous design elements and lifestyle features inspired by the superyacht world.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357926/image/large-308ab590f36c7bf8aa9ef9466f6f5ad3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357926">“We are thrilled to introduce REI,” commented Fredrik Johansson, Co-Founder of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a> and Executive Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>. “The 196-metre project is the perfect illustration of the combined offerings of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a>, where we manage exterior styling, engineering, master planning and interior under one umbrella.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357929/image/large-a25d14194355d2b70e913c7f499fa921.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357929">With a beam of 28-metres and accommodation for up to 112 guests and 125 crew across 10 decks, REI demonstrates how superyacht design principles can be applied at larger scales. The project integrates features more typically associated with private yachts, including duplex suites with private winter gardens and pools, forward-facing infinity pools and ensuite spas connected to guest terraces.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357928/image/large-da87fa0c9dcd621235ded7fa41dda9e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357928"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken</a>’s integrated approach to design allows them to streamline the design process: “We can help our clients in the process dramatically, controlling the investment and optimising the outcome for both the guest and the operator. The yacht will come out and make money much sooner and be far more successful and prosperous during its lifespan,” added Johansson.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357927/image/large-430b1cc1cbadbd0c4d4b527688d76e74.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357927">Externally, REI presents a refined, minimalist profile, described by Martin Butler, Creative Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> as “a protective and hard outer shell encasing a soft, cosy interior". Inspired by nature and industrial aesthetics, her interiors have been conceived to promote a tranquil, tactile experience, featuring lighting that adjusts dynamically according to the desired mood.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357925/image/large-d32d459a1a8c123daba7eec45f845325.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357925">“Exterior deck spaces can be booked for private functions, and guests can enjoy relaxing in private pools connected to the suites’ beautiful terraces as well as letting off steam in semi-private spas,” added Enrico Lumini, Co-Founder and Design Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a>.Sustainability was also a core consideration in the project’s development. The concept allows for a range of alternative propulsion options, including electric, hydrogen, solar and wind. A secondary 27-metre expedition vessel, potentially solar or electric-powered, is also incorporated into the design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357930/image/large-717ebf794452d355b647daadef7ec501.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357930">While REI is not a private yacht, the project underscores how superyacht studios are expanding their design reach and influencing emerging luxury marine segments. “The market for cruise yachts is currently looking very promising,” concluded Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357931/image/large-43e8f945f29dac4f04724a904e5fd63a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357931">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Four Seasons and Fincantieri announce 207m Four Seasons Yacht (2022-09-28 19:15:00 +0200)">The Four Seasons yacht</a> will hit the water soon, and numerous other high-end brands are looking to enter this space. Thanks to our three brands, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7563" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Thalia Marine (Company)">Thalia Marine</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a> can harness our unique expertise across superyachts, cruise ships and refits, meaning we are perfectly positioned to make our mark.”

REI: Viken Group unveils 196m “yacht-inspired” cruise project 

Viken Group has unveiled a 196-metre “yacht-inspired” design concept, in collaboration with its in-house brands TDoS, Hot Lab and Thalia Marine.

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Viken Group unveils 196m “yacht-inspired” cruise project REI

The 23.85-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/603" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere Navale Spertini Alalunga (Company)">Alalunga</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10057" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Freedom23.85m (78'3&quot;)Cantiere Navale Spertini Alalunga2007">Freedom</a> has been sold in an in-house deal, with Costis Pontifex of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="EKKA Yachts (Company)">EKKA Yachts</a> representing both the buyer and seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357772/image/large-af70ff0ccca178c9c0597abb337f590f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357772">Built in 2007, the yacht features interior and exterior design by Italian designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Arch. Tommaso Spadolini (Company)">Studio Arch. Tommaso Spadolini</a>, with naval architecture crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/603" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere Navale Spertini Alalunga (Company)">Alalunga’s</a> in-house team. In 2017, she underwent a refit in Greece.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/119433/image/large-a00fb665d794f88f3b4e53a3a83f0010.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/119433">She can host up to eight guests across four classically-designed staterooms spread out for maximum comfort. Furthermore, she can accommodate up to four crew members, including the captain of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10057" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Freedom23.85m (78'3&quot;)Cantiere Navale Spertini Alalunga2007">Freedom</a>.The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/603" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere Navale Spertini Alalunga (Company)">Alalunga</a> 78 yacht features an aft deck that flows into the well-equipped main saloon, offering guests a comfortable setting to unwind in the early mornings or late evenings.In terms of her performance, 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 that propel her to a cruising speed of 22 knots and a top speed of 33 knots.

24m Alalunga yacht Freedom sold

The 24m Alalunga motor yacht has been sold with EKKA Yachts representing both the seller and the buyer.

The Kingdom of Bahrain has unveiled a new regulatory framework designed to enhance maritime safety and position the country as an attractive destination for yacht tourism.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/285488/image/large-56669c82-5c3b-46e1-b7c9-214445a7ddb4.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/285488">The initiative, introduced by Dr. Sheikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, represents a significant step in the Kingdom’s wider strategy to diversify its economy and develop its maritime tourism sector.The regulation, formalised through Ministerial Edict (9) of 2025, simplifies the process for visiting non-commercial, foreign-flagged leisure vessels to obtain navigation permits. These vessels may now apply directly to the Ports and Maritime Affairs Directorate should they choose not to utilise a local shipping agent.This latest measure aligns with Bahrain’s long-term development agenda, guided by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and overseen by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. It also reinforces Bahrain’s commitment to the goals of Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, by promoting sustainable maritime and tourism practices.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/350880/image/large-def0fe807c2ccfcacef92c350c5f6502.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/350880">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/62741" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CEO Captain Abdulla Al Merbati on Al Dhaen's new strategy and Bahrain as a cruising destination (2025-03-03 10:30:00 +0100)">CEO Captain Abdulla Al Merbati on Al Dhaen's new strategy and Bahrain as a cruising destination</a>Dr. Sheikh Abdulla noted that the regulation aims to support the country's positioning as a regional hub for high-value tourism, while reinforcing security and environmental standards in its territorial waters. The Ministries of Transportation and Telecommunications and Interior collaborated closely to revise existing maritime navigation protocols to support the safe and efficient movement of vessels.The Ministry has also published a comprehensive procedural guide for foreign yachts visiting Bahrain. Bader Hood Al Mahmood, Undersecretary for Ports and Maritime Affairs, outlined that the guide provides clear instructions on obtaining navigation permits, including detailed pre-arrival, entry, and departure requirements.Among the key stipulations, visiting yachts must operate an Automatic Identification System (AIS), hold valid third-party insurance, and submit documentation including the yacht’s registration, a navigation or safety certificate, and lists of passengers and crew. Initial approvals for entry can be expected within 24 hours of application submission.Yachts approaching Bahraini waters are required to notify the Maritime Control Office via VHF Channel 74 or telephone, and proceed to one of five designated maritime inspection points, including Qatari Waters Cutoff and Fasht Al Jarrim. Following this, vessels must report to one of the listed entry ports – such as Al Dur Port or Waves Marina – to complete immigration and customs procedures.Notably, Bahrain has included leisure marinas among the official entry ports, streamlining arrival processes and underscoring the country's readiness to accommodate yacht tourism. In certain cases, additional marinas may also be authorised.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/350878/image/large-7ab898dfe4e872aef5503c4dbe866144.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/350878">Upon completion of customs formalities and submission of the required documentation, vessels will be issued a navigation permit valid for up to one year, with provisions for renewal and multiple entries. Departure procedures are similarly defined, requiring formal notification, documentation review, and inspection prior to clearance from Bahraini waters.

Bahrain introduces new yacht regulations

The Kingdom of Bahrain has unveiled a new regulatory framework designed to promote yacht tourism.

Bahrain introduces new yacht regulations to promote yacht tourism

The 40.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN) (Company)">CCN</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Renata40.8m (133'10&quot;)Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN)2018">Renata</a> has completed her technical sea trials, following a comprehensive rebuild after a fire in 2018. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357783/image/large-22d584f98bfd8c61e37e76a03863ee99.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357783">Originally delivered by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN) (Company)">Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN)</a>, a fire broke out in September 2018, 15 nautical miles north of Dubrovnik near the island of Olipa in Croatia. All 13 people onboard were safely evacuated from the yacht and no serious injuries were reported.&nbsp;Video:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/48978" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Video: 40m superyacht Kanga on fire near Dubrovnik (2018-09-07 13:00:00 +0200)">40m superyacht Kanga on fire near Dubrovnik</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357782/image/large-38ff7903587b076559622ec1febe26ef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357782">Managed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6431" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Touch Adriatic (Company)">Touch Adriatic</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Renata40.8m (133'10&quot;)Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN)2018">Renata</a> has undergone a full-scale reconstruction overseen by the owner’s representative at a shipyard in Croatia, with the involvement of multiple subcontractors. According to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6431" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Touch Adriatic (Company)">Touch Adriatic</a> CEO Darko Šupuk, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Renata40.8m (133'10&quot;)Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN)2018">Renata</a> has been “completely rebuilt, inside and out.”The most significant transformation lies in the yacht’s layout and while the upper deck owner's area remains largely unchanged, with the addition of a Jacuzzi on the private terrace, her lower deck has been reconfigured to accommodate five guest staterooms. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357781/image/large-96f1169b8b49a10b850feed8acdf0306.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357781">Combined with another suite onboard, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Renata40.8m (133'10&quot;)Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN)2018">Renata</a> now offers a total of six guest staterooms, maximising her internal volume and increasing her appeal for charter groups. Renata will begin cruising in her home waters of Croatia this summer, with plans to cross the Atlantic for the Caribbean season later in the year.Although <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Renata40.8m (133'10&quot;)Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN)2018">Renata</a> retains her original engines and stabilisers, all technical systems have been renewed and optimised during the rebuild. She continues to boast a transatlantic range and a top speed of 12 knots, along with an array of water toys including Jet Skis.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357780/image/large-01ff50cd5771f9237ea1af1bca9c1a02.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357780">Initial charter itineraries will focus on the Adriatic, where the yacht’s Croatian heritage and experienced local crew add further value. “We believe that we might see her in the waters of the Amalfi Coast and Sardinia too,” Šupuk added. There is also an ambition to reposition <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Renata40.8m (133'10&quot;)Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN)2018">Renata</a> for Caribbean cruising in the winter.Originally launched as Kanga by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN) (Company)">CCN</a> in 2018, the yard of her original builder became part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a> Group in 2015, under the Gavio Group umbrella. In the years following, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN) (Company)">CCN</a> brand was gradually phased out as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a> consolidated its operations and refocused its commercial strategy.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357784/image/large-97ca3327ca2bb47954b98b2188ad6872.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357784"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Renata40.8m (133'10&quot;)Cerri Cantieri Navali (CCN)2018">Renata</a>’s original design included exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2898" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Sculli (Company)">Studio Sculli</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1087" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Floating Life Charter & Brokerage (Company)">Floating Life Charter &amp; Brokerage</a>, with interior design penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5066" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Architecture At Large (Company)">Architecture At Large</a>.&nbsp;

Renata: 41m CCN yacht on sea trials following rebuild after fire

The 41m motor yacht Renata has completed her technical sea trials, following a comprehensive rebuild after a fire in 2018. 

41m CCN motor yacht Renata on sea trials following rebuild after fire 

The 39.65-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/192" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons Shipyard</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4885" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Candida39.65m (130'1&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1929">Candida</a> has entered the market with Michel Chryssicopoulos of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357726/image/large-95f94dd5abc825a5c65342f610adbcd0.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357726">Originally delivered in 1929 and having undergone an extensive refit in 2024, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/candida/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Candida for sale</a> features exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/229" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Charles E. Nicholson (Company)">Charles E. Nicholson</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357722/image/large-1775b53d2bf86d9046bdf59c7bb2e10b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357722"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357707/image/large-1bcafe3c4b7a20b6114ad2743599e370.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357707"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357706/image/large-7bd9813a69e3c79fd2d214831c819df6.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357706">At a volume of 91 GT, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/sailing/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">sailing yacht for sale</a> is capable of hosting as many as six guests across her lavish three stateroom layout. Further accommodation is available to support a crew of up to seven members onboard. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357712/image/large-a702de9bea0faa1f09bf8ede6b8541dd.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357712"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357710/image/large-c9ea5d925709609d1383f45c85ec8708.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357710"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357714/image/large-782f9779d532f02fdb437459c845cc72.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357714">Composed of a wood hull and teak superstructure, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4885" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Candida39.65m (130'1&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1929">Candida</a> is among the few remaining <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/229" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Charles E. Nicholson (Company)">Charles E. Nicholson</a> designs in this size range. With a distinguished history in competitive sailing, she retains traditional wood panelling while boasting new updates for modern comfort. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357720/image/large-1856daaac1ba42ca14454046ce788d6d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357720"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357723/image/large-f1758278ff3d6e559e088113f76d15cc.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357723">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a>’s inviting, classically styled interiors are home to an L-shaped, pale blue sofa accompanied by a coffee table, and two dark blue sofas flanked by expansive windows for far-reaching vistas. A similarly nautical colour scheme also extends to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4885" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Candida39.65m (130'1&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1929">Candida</a>’s staterooms, where high-gloss wood exudes a luxurious sense of sea living. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357708/image/large-8fa0f791feac4781a6a908b25e752549.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357708"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357709/image/large-ffd3b041f9b41c95d970ed4f6c239004.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357709"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357718/image/large-47005f0b6e18e547054511df8c78ac71.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357718">Regarding her performance, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/camper-nicholsons-shipyard/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Camper &amp; Nicholsons Shipyard yacht for sale</a> is powered by a single <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engine that propels her to a cruising speed of 10 knots and a top speed of 11 knots.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357725/image/large-dc0f7bb4382b9a560e9ae5fd3d815bda.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357725">

40m Camper Nicholsons Shipyard yacht Candida for sale 

The 39.65-metre Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard sailing yacht Candida has entered the market with Michel Chryssicopoulos of IYC. 


40m classic sailing yacht Candida on the market 

The 39.6-metre sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="My Song39.6m (129'11&quot;)Baltic Yachts2016">My Song</a> has fallen off a cargo vessel during her transportation from the Caribbean to the Balearics. During Saturday night the Baltic 130 superyacht was lost in the Mediterranean before reaching the Balearics, where she was due to be unloaded in Ibiza ahead of her appearance in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta - 2019">Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta</a> next week.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/80902/image/large-afd459f25761246f6151de88499db801.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/80902">Her owner, YCCS member Pier Luigi Loro Piana, had arranged for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="My Song39.6m (129'11&quot;)Baltic Yachts2016">My Song</a> to take part in the <a href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta - 2019">Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta</a> as a returning winner after having won the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta last year and being recently declared Boat of the Year at the Italian Sailing Federation's Sailor of the Year awards. &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/58219/image/large-06a6b2305d80991f6f2200306f88c3f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/58219">In 2016 she was delivered to her owner by the Finnish yard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic Yachts</a> and features both an interior and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nauta Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Nauta</a> as well as naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/521" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reichel / Pugh Yacht Design (Company)">Reichel / Pugh Yacht Design</a>. Along with her 56-metre-high <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2447" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Spars (Company)">Southern Spars</a> rig carrying <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/758" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="North Sails (Company)">North Sails</a> and with an overall length of nearly 40 metres, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="My Song39.6m (129'11&quot;)Baltic Yachts2016">My Song</a>&nbsp;was one of the larger full-carbon yachts on the racing scene with a displacement of 105 tonnes (including the 36-tonne lifting keel) and a maximum speed of over 30 knots. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/36187/image/large-da3cbb6233b2153eac32cf6dcc29ed96.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/36187">More information about the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="My Song39.6m (129'11&quot;)Baltic Yachts2016">My Song</a> cargo incident can be found on various news sites, including <a href="https://www.pressmare.it/it/comunicazione/press-mare/2019-05-27/pigi-loro-piana-perde-my-song-baltic-130-cade-cargo-20855" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Pressmare</a>.

40m sailing yacht My Song cargo incident during transportation

Find out more about the 39.6m My Song cargo incident during her transportation from the Caribbean to the Balearics.

Long Read

Exclusive interview: Pier Luigi Loro Piana on the refit of Masquenada