There’s building superyachts – and there’s building the superyacht experience. It’s a subtle art and one that requires painstaking attention to detail and a deep understanding of an owner’s needs and lifestyle.&nbsp;The superyacht experience extends well beyond idyllic cruising grounds and impressive destinations. The experience is all about the mood and onboard ambiance – it’s a deft art and one that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marpower eXperience (Company)">Marpower eXperience</a> has mastered. “We pride ourselves on delivering tailor-made solutions not only per client or per project, but per room and per area onboard a yacht,” Brian Faerber, Business Unit Manager eXperience, told SuperYacht Times. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248733/image/large-8bb33a2bd34b900d159f3f81ccf966cc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248733"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marpower eXperience (Company)">Marpower eXperience</a> provides solutions for all audio-visual, lighting, control, IT &amp; communications, and security needs. The experience, however, doesn’t start from the yacht. It starts from those initial conversations, by gauging the client’s needs. The onboard mood is subjective and the journey to creating the atmosphere takes its origins from the drawing board. “We’re a client-centric organisation,” Faerber explained, “and that begins from the moment we meet them.”&nbsp;The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marpower eXperience (Company)">Marpower eXperience</a> application is the beating heart of the ecosystem, it’s where an owner can change the lights, the music, the movie and even the security cameras. This same application can be shared among guests, so that everyone onboard can set the ambiance, the mood that they’re looking for. A key function is control: the owner of the superyacht can allow access to the lighting, to the audio but not to the security – for instance.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248736/image/large-f5ae2af0aa33d3713606a194e804b275.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248736">&nbsp;Trusted by some of the world's leading shipyards, including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>, the approach of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marpower eXperience (Company)">Marpower eXperience</a> ecosystem has served itself well. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marpower eXperience (Company)">Marpower eXperience</a> ensures that superyachts, whether new-builds or refits, are delivered to their owners with an easy-to-use, tailor-made audio-visual and lighting system that has been created with the client, for the client – and the epicentre of this ecosystem is available on any device.“Functionality is so important to us, we knew that we had to do away with multiple remotes and devices. It just doesn’t add to the experience,” Danny Schouten, Manager Sales &amp; Technology of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marpower eXperience (Company)">Marpower eXperience</a>, added. “Everyone has a device of some sort and knows how to use it. It makes much more sense to utilise the technology that our clients are familiar with.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248732/image/large-7826555dcdffc0775da127721cba2f15.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248732"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eekels Technology BV (Company)">Eekels</a> is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marpower eXperience (Company)">Marpower eXperience</a>’s parent company, and has a breadth of experience and expertise, developed over more than a century of operation. Eekels is a one-stop tech solution provider for yachting – and the maritime industry, more generally – and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marpower eXperience (Company)">Marpower eXperience</a> handles the entertainment and atmospheric side of things. The company works closely with the interior designers on any given project, to enhance the onboard experience. Superyachts embedded with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marpower eXperience (Company)">Marpower eXperienc</a>e solutions are seamless, well integrated and, when needed, entirely customised.&nbsp;For every project, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marpower eXperience (Company)">Marpower eXperience</a> conducts a needs assessment for each area of a superyacht, analysing how spaces are used and how best to curate and improve both mood and feel. With a broad portfolio of products, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marpower eXperience (Company)">Marpower eXperience</a> can confidently create bespoke features for the yacht’s many audio-visual units, from exterior lighting, to the overall connectivity onboard. Despite the acute attention paid to each of a superyacht’s regions, the approach remains holistic, considering the overall atmosphere which flows throughout the yacht to fashion the superyacht experience. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248737/image/large-e3f3ae86e1f3998b208dc5e7aad7100f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248737">

Marpower eXperience and onboard ambiance

Marpower eXperience solution

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Danny Schouten and Brian Faerber of Marpower eXperience

SYT joined Marpower eXperience to learn more about the art of curating the perfect superyacht experience. 

Marpower eXperience and the art of curating onboard ambiance

In less than ten years <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a> has evolved from a small brokerage office in Fort Lauderdale with a couple dozen staff members, into a powerhouse full-service international superyacht brokerage, with a global clientele and an impressive portfolio of yachts for sale, charter and management. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219125/image/large-76d0c4739a3321cb41031ed70f0e4fd1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219125">While the superyachting industry as a whole has of course grown in recent years, approximately doubling in size, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">N&amp;J</a> has outperformed the sector growth enormously, expanding tenfold in the last eight years alone, and in the process overtaking many more established industry competitors. Daniel Ziriakus, the company’s President &amp; COO, has been with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">N&amp;J</a> for most of that decade, and he sat down with SYT to share his thoughts on the challenges and opportunities that superyacht brokerage firms face today, and the secrets of N&amp;J’s success to date.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219124/image/large-eb22920ece83e9b24e076486379b2f0f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219124">“Data has been a major factor in our success, allowing us to spend our money wisely in the areas where it will have the greatest return”, explains Ziriakus. “And our marketing capabilities have also helped us to look different, especially from the more hidebound of our competition. Over the past decade we have built a comprehensive support structure in-house which encompasses marketing, business intelligence, tech development, PR and events, in-house video production (which almost no one else has), and strategic partnerships. These marketing teams consist of more than 30 people on staff, and include an intelligence team dedicated to data research. I really don’t know of any other brokerage firm that has invested so much in these categories, and it has definitely helped us to differentiate ourselves with our clients and win more and more of our competitor’s business.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/35342/image/large-bdee32c15b4a067e6002354accf83f97.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/35342">The brokerage's acquisition in 2021 by industry titan <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a> has certainly given the company the financial firepower to make this transition more quickly, but there was always a focus on data analytics and marketing, even prior to the takeover. “Many brokerage houses have just one or two employees who provide their yachting data, but it's generally a slow and outdated manual process that is rarely capable of finding the right yachts first – something which is one of the most important roles expected of a broke by their clientele. At <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">N&amp;J</a> however, we have our ‘Deep Data department’ that sources data from all over the world through various custom developed applications as well as significant human resources, making sure our brokers have the most accurate and acute information in the industry, as well as having it first.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219126/image/large-206b550a22422538d353d3e1d1b64044.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219126">“If you strip it down to its basic tenets, the world of yacht broking is an information and facilitation business,” says Ziriakus. “The value of data within the yachting industry can be pivotal to a company’s success.” This could not have been more evident than in recent years, when major market high, such as 2021 and early 2022, saw scares supply and very few superyachts of pedigree were hitting the market. N&amp;J’s investment in data has enabled them to ride the sector wave with massive success, including reporting recently that its brokers sold 36% more yachts on average per broker than its closest competitor in 2022, selling a yacht almost every 48 hours during 2022.When <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">N&amp;J</a> isn't in the news for its extensive catalogue of sales, the brokerage house is stealing the limelight with partnership after partnership, and for Ziriakus this has also been one of the greatest growth assets for the company. “The strategic partnerships team has been working hard to build deep, multi-year partnerships with other brands that go far beyond simply sharing a logo or sponsoring events. It has truly been a business development drive to build powerful PR campaigns, events and activations that work directly with UHNW client segments. With the carefully selected and powerful partners that we have, for example NetJets and Airbus, we have created an integrated programme to offer clients a wider array of services, and it has been a phenomenal success at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/35345/image/large-3227dab3db722f3690b5e19a306f889e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/35345">The multifaceted approach <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">N&amp;J</a> employs is just as strong in its marketing. Content creation is a leading strategy for the brand, and it employs not just one but five videographers and editors who shoot high end productions of yachts all over the world. While this isn’t in and of itself particularly revolutionary, the work the production team does with former broker David Seal is.Seal runs a YouTube channel for the company called Yachts for Sale, and shoots video content for the brokerage firm. The true value lies in the business development opportunities that arise from coverage on such a popular channel. “These infotainment-style videos are a fantastic asset,” explains Ziriakus, “not only because we create cool and interesting content, but because we visit shipyards, talk to clients and experts, and that content directly brings in leads to both the brokerage and the charter departments. Clean data, strategic partnerships and video production are the three areas that we excel in, and which not every brokerage recognises as an asset or invests in as we do.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/214846/image/large-72c5c3de41c239666e2b50bdd062a55f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/214846">Another key element to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">N&amp;J</a>’s success is the mindset of people first. The company exists to support its salespeople and services, and therefore its clients. It is this mentality that has enabled the company to build amazing features that support exactly what the brokers need, creating a better working environment for its employees and in turn benefiting the end user – the superyacht owner.&nbsp;In a decade where the company has already expanded tenfold, the next question is what will the next decade bring and can they build on their success to become the market leader. &nbsp;

Superyacht brokerage and its challenges in 2023

Daniel Ziriakus of Northrop and Johnson shares his thoughts on running a superyacht brokerage in 2023/

What it takes to run a modern brokerage in 2023

The 49.38-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anastassiades & Tsortanides (Company)">Anastassiades &amp; Tsortanides</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> has entered the market. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/asteria/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht, Asteria for sale</a>, was built in 1970 as an ocean-going rescue tug and was converted in 2000 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1070" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northport Engineering (Company)">Northport Engineering</a> in New Zealand into a world-class expedition yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256188/image/large-4920d6ce027e0eefe163a22ca84f57ab.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256188"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> is a proven world cruiser and has spent two decades cruising from pole to pole. In 2019, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> underwent another extensive refit by French studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7008" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Charles Zana (Company)">Charles Zana</a>. Her interior was redesigned with a contemporary flare while maintaining her classic appeal.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256186/image/large-1d1cb2789b893db325d52e51b1a83b61.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256186">The robust 669 GT conversion <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a>, features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/45" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pieter Beeldsnijder Design (Company)">Pieter Beeldsnijder Design</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anastassiades & Tsortanides (Company)">Anastassiades &amp; Tsortanides</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a>’s current owner is dedicated to her upkeep and has maintained her to the highest standards, leaving her in great condition for more adventures.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256183/image/large-b44d9078db012a5da91498dc494e5f3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256183">The aft saloon doubles as a library and movie room with large almost beam width extra-wide sofas. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> also benefits from a bright interior, thanks to large windows that adorn all the guest areas. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/19093/image/large-469e3380ed93ef5381edaf8c58e85192.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/19093">The dining area of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> is separated by large bevelled glass and wooden doors. The dining area is able to accommodate up to 14 guests for a formal dining experience, surrounded by sculptures and curated works of art.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256174/image/large-6bcc5fbb568189123dcf9f2b046c1e76.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256174"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a>’s main saloon provides a great space for guests to socialise and relax, with a full bar and plenty of seating. The seating is designed for large groups, but set up so as to not lose those intimate nooks that make the ample-sized saloon perfect for any group.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256195/image/large-abe480beb3715cd2472ee1c2fe9bf37a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256195">A notable feature onboard the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/anastassiades-tsortanides/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Anastassiades &amp; Tsortanides yacht for sale</a> is her luggage room, located on the main deck. This large storage area solves a problem that many yachts of this size face and provides capacious space for bulky cases to be stored.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256187/image/large-bd57cb215cd2f5298870419cb6c50d87.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256187"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256190/image/large-903b8e047550f9261f06c46bb79e6d96.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256190"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> is able to accommodate up to 14 guests in seven staterooms with her owner’s suite located forward on the third deck. The master suite provides easy access to both the pilot house and main deck and includes a king-bed and marble ensuite bathroom.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256184/image/large-b01fb26f1bba63071136daa8437d795e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256184">Aft of the owner’s suite is a smaller stateroom suited for young children, but could also easily be converted into a gym, office, or wellness centre.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256192/image/large-198dfeda0cb209b770dbe56199816c02.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256192"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256193/image/large-b6278997d8d45907f292b419cad7d0df.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256193">The remaining guest staterooms of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> include a port and starboard VIP suite with queen-beds and ensuite bathrooms, two double staterooms that can be converted into twins, and a twin stateroom. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> is also able to accommodate up to 22 crew in 11 cabins.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256176/image/large-d72b5c849ba48ba91621f325653f147d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256176"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256189/image/large-2d9a6e980562d83347ad8771bedf2cbf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256189"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a>’s extensive refit did not stop with her interior, and included the addition of a spa pool covered by a huge bimini on the top deck, as well as new paint and decks. Her sun deck is also capable of landing a five-tonne helicopter, while her aft deck is perfect for working out with the yacht’s gym equipment.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256180/image/large-8e26a89481e65fa052211553b3c2f8dc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256180"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> has plenty of exterior spaces, with a large round table with seating for 12 on her main deck for alfresco dining. The area is surrounded by a large deck of cushioned built-in seating with ample storage underneath.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256173/image/large-31239d16ed399a89e6333bea8b87cb06.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256173">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> underwent a full main engine rebuild and generator service in 2022. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> will return to the shipyard in January 2023 to service her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5020" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Quantum Marine Stabilizers (Company)">Quantum</a> zero-speed stabilisers. She is equipped with 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 providing her with a top speed of 14 knots and a cruising speed of 11 knots.&nbsp;

49m Anastassiades and Tsortanides yacht Asteria for sale

The 49m Anastassiades & Tsortanides yacht Asteria for sale is a proven world cruiser following her conversion in 2000.

49m Anastassiades & Tsortanides yacht Asteria enters the market

Nurturing relationships with the client is at the forefront of shipbuilding and yacht design, and it's an art that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a> has mastered. Two case studies really highlight this; the first is the 32-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere delle Marche (CdM) (Company)">CdM</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8655" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Uptight32.0m (104'12&quot;)Cantiere delle Marche (CdM)2022">Uptight</a> and the second is the 38-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4643" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rosetti Superyachts (Company)">Rosetti</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7939" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emocean37.83m (124'1&quot;)Rosetti Superyachts2021">Emocean</a>.&nbsp;SuperYacht Times sat down with Sergio Cutolo, founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a>, and the owners of both <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8655" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Uptight32.0m (104'12&quot;)Cantiere delle Marche (CdM)2022">Uptight</a> and Emocean to learn more about the process of taking a yacht project from concept to sea. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248425/image/large-c29a914165885cf5c6f8e440b1890828.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248425"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8655" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Uptight32.0m (104'12&quot;)Cantiere delle Marche (CdM)2022">Uptight</a>&nbsp;| Darwin 106 | 32m | 255 GT | 2022The 32-metre explorer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8655" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Uptight32.0m (104'12&quot;)Cantiere delle Marche (CdM)2022">Uptight</a> is an evolution of the 102 Darwin series – and it seriously pushes the boundaries. “We were in front of experienced owners with a great passion for the sea and fishing, who wanted to build their first steel yacht,” Sergio Cutolo, founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a>, explained.This owner was Jeffrey Fiorentino who had already been dissuaded time and time again not to undertake a new-build route, but he was undeterred. &nbsp;“Many people say you should never build a new house from scratch. Those people say the same about yachts,” Fiorentino, told SuperYacht Times. “Even though we have owned many custom and semi-custom Sportfish boats up to 20-metres, this was our first live-aboard yacht and we needed help transforming our dreams to reality.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248428/image/large-4d62d39111adee5714c220243d892843.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248428">This dream was a slow displacement vessel to enjoy long expeditions from the moment the yacht leaves the quay to the destination – the first of which was an exploration of Alaska and beyond, in pursuit of some of the big game that call the Bering Sea home. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a> and exploration yachts are pretty much synonymous – but the Italian studio isn’t so well-versed with the nuances of design required for anglers.&nbsp;“From an architectural standpoint, the fishing cockpit was a bit of a challenge for us,” Cutolo confessed. “We have had no experience with this kind of design, but we plugged some serious research, following the designs of the most successful American fisherman, to learn what works and what doesn’t.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248426/image/large-93b199e87463770351596a789173a9da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248426">It was of no concern to Fiorentino though, who was greatly reassured of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a>’s ability, after spending great lengths of time with Sergio during the conceptual stage. “After delivery of our first 285 GT yacht, we decided that the growing family would need a larger yacht,” Fiorentino explained. “Sergio and his wife, Silvia, spent a week on our yacht as guests and listened to our ideas of what a 499 GT upgrade would entail. Because our yacht involved the requirements for a large family, two owners suites, a highly customised and large open galley plan, and special fishing and entertaining needs, Sergio spent the time needed with us to gain this understanding so that the final yacht met our exact dreams.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248427/image/large-c4b3dffc696ff8d51fe3645fb68a9fb8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248427"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a> stretched and pulled the schematics of the Darwin 102, expanding its length by an additional four feet to incorporate a fighting cockpit. To achieve this, though, the whole aft section had to be redesigned. As this was a yacht destined for the chase; the owner raised concern about being able to navigate shallow waters, due to the inlets on the original design. “When the owner explained that they’ll be cruising shallow waters for their sport, we proposed the idea of keel coolers,” &nbsp;Sergio explained.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248424/image/large-adbd9ee729e4ce836d7158d451ff59ef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248424">During the build process, challenges always arise, Sergio and team were there and helped us overcome issues that arose in the build and most often, improved the design and spec to build an even better boat in the end,” Fiorentino reflected. “I could write pages about how this small/medium size design firm gave us a lot of attention that a large firm could not give us. That personal attention and the resulting friendship makes our experience one we will repeat with Sergio and team many times.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208414/image/large-34ad566f938f8e10972514f45c9babf6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208414"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7939" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emocean37.83m (124'1&quot;)Rosetti Superyachts2021">Emocean</a>&nbsp;| RSY38m EXP | 37.83m | 432 GT | 2021&nbsp;In less than 12 months, the owners of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7939" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emocean37.83m (124'1&quot;)Rosetti Superyachts2021">Emocean</a> have already put 20,000 nautical miles on the clock, and embarked on not one but two transatlantic crossings. They wanted a yacht that can satiate their thirst for exploration and stand-up to the rigor of lengthy excursions out at sea.“When it comes to explorer yachts the one thing that really matters is the hull shape,” the owners of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7939" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emocean37.83m (124'1&quot;)Rosetti Superyachts2021">Emocean</a> told SuperYacht Times. “The hull is the foundation that paves the way for good performance, low vibrations, and hardy stability both at anchor and while cruising.” In their mind, there was only one studio that could deliver the quality they required: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208416/image/large-6a0fbc617f64d436e1e0910a0f65cca7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208416"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a> is well-known for pushing the boundaries of possibility with each of its deliveries. “The secret,” Sergio confessed, “stems from offering the full package (naval architecture and exterior design). The studio, then, has full reign over the project and has a breadth of knowledge that’s instrumental for success, especially when working with newly-formed yards like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4643" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rosetti Superyachts (Company)">Rosetti Superyachts</a>. But that doesn’t mean that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a> isn’t confronted by challenges. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208395/image/large-2dac90a0b5699ba63f0a5c81cbc3e3de.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208395">“We were approached by some very knowledgeable clients, who have owned a number of smaller yachts, but who were looking for something more spacious and more suited to their needs,” Sergio explained. “This was the first time working with them, and it was refreshing to be designing a yacht for clients that wanted to break the traditional mould.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208422/image/large-da1adc3e4b48ee6a32e7cc37e6c60191.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208422">The only way to achieve this though was by having strong communication, every step of the way. It was also important for the designers to listen – and I mean, really listen – to the client's needs. “Sergio Cutolo is incredibly open-minded, which we really appreciated,” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7939" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emocean37.83m (124'1&quot;)Rosetti Superyachts2021">Emocean</a>’s owners explained. “His experience and personality eased the whole process of transforming plans and ideas into solutions and a properly engineered product.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208407/image/large-141eaed5c887a48b7945dbb460d5ec6e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208407">At the heart of these conversations were three core needs: space, autonomy and connection with the sea. These clients wanted to use their yacht for long periods of time, in comfort and with the constant reminder of the beautiful locations they’re cruising. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a> got creative; “we created a sort of mezzanine and a novel general arrangement, where we worked vertically to free up as much space as possible,” Sergio explained. “One key area that we exploited was the bow, which we converted into a technical space. Whereas, to provide a constant connection to the external environment, we featured a ‘column of light’ that starts from the fly and arrives at the staterooms through glass flooring.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248429/image/large-0b71bbd1f8b0feca85c97c517001938f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248429"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208389/image/large-79102eb5488c5343f36ba3209ad01689.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208389">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55941" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec’s secret formula that balances exploration with sustainability (2022-09-21 15:00:00 +0200)">Hydro Tec’s secret formula that balances exploration with sustainability</a>These bespoke and tailored features just wouldn’t have been possible without openness to communications and relationship building – and as a result, the final product wouldn’t be polished to such a shine. Would you use <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a> for any future projects? I asked. “Without a doubt,” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7939" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emocean37.83m (124'1&quot;)Rosetti Superyachts2021">Emocean</a>’s owners said. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208371/image/large-8ef6e13f3ac9807c76ebcdc77a291b51.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208371">

Hydro Tec in conversation with the owners of Uptight and Emocean

SYT sat down with Hydro Tec, and two owners to hear the process of yacht design.

Hydro Tec and the extra mile: In conversation with the owners of Uptight and Emocean

The sweet sub-500 GT spot is desirable for shipbuilders and owners alike; lower <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4531" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="International Maritime Organization (Company)">IMO</a> regulations need to be adhered to for one, but then you also have additional running and crew costs, pricier berthing rates, and limited cruising grounds in shallower waters. There is also the benefit of added privacy, as while you don’t have as much onboard space you can travel with less crew, making excursions all the more intimate. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208212/image/large-391ca1c70a6822b2c89fe2ca519bf6b3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208212">A beauty of this segment is that you’re not limited to production yachts either, as there is a &nbsp;plethora of astounding designers penning one-of-a-kind fully custom sub-500 GT superyachts, which are typically around 45-55 metres in length. “As the process of designing a full custom yacht is time-consuming, this is a sector pretty much exclusively reserved for experienced owners,” Jan Jaap Minnema, sales broker at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>, explained.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/32758/image/large-b1924d2b13548bb868b7e704f857c44e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32758">While this has traditionally been the case, with recent events blocking a number of Russian clients out of the market, things could change. “Shipyards may need to reinvent themselves,” Frank Laupman, Founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a>, speculates. “If this situation continues, shipyards that build major 100-metre plus projects could lose a lot of clientele, the cruise sector would be a logical move for them. With these yards elsewhere, clients could be inclined to opt for mid-size projects with other shipyards.”&nbsp;There is also the issue of rising fuel costs. While this isn’t usually a persuading factor in this industry, the state of things at the moment may push owners to consider less fuel-consuming yachts. Another trend that has the potential to emerge in the future is from new money earned from crypto and the US tech boom. I posed this question to Albert Hakvoort of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/40" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Hakvoort Shipyard (Company)">Royal Hakvoort</a>, who said “these clients haven’t made it to his yard, but it could happen down the line after they’ve spent time enjoying chartering and production yachts.” &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206774/image/large-0405788646cb74c5f73f5e9358392f0f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206774">The current demand for mid-size fully-custom superyachts is as diverse as the yachts themselves, with clients coming from all over the world. There is a unifying factor though: these clients are experienced owners with high expectations. “My clients looking to go the custom route have usually enjoyed the ownership of production 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> classics,” Jan Jaap Minnema. “So they know exactly what they like. I ask them to write a wish list of everything that’s important to them, this provides the foundation for the general arrangement. My role as a broker is to manage expectations, acting as an intermediary between the client, shipyard, and designer, every step of the way.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206771/image/large-e447c2e3dfa8a45448296c422b1d9dbf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206771">The process is lengthy, but pure customisation is the pinnacle of luxury; the bar doesn’t go any higher than taking a client’s perfection from a wish list to delivery. And when it comes to designing one-off bespoke superyachts there aren’t many designers with such a heritage as the Dutch studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a>.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a> has been in operation for more than 25 years and has designed over 100 yachts in that time, many of which are full-custom projects. If we reign the scope to the turn of the century, then <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> has more than 20 sub-500 GT motor yachts either delivered or under construction. Six of these are with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> and part of the Dutch yacht builder’s semi-custom series; while the remaining motor yachts are full custom and each with a story to tell. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206775/image/large-233bde91a402a83b801ad5a733d85419.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206775">I caught up with Frank Laupman to discuss two recent projects of his: &nbsp;the 43.9-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abydos43.9m (144'0&quot;)Venture Yachts2021">Abydos</a> by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4909" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Venture Yachts (Company)">Venture Yachts</a> and the 45.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Milele45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2022">Milele</a> by Royal Hakvoort, both designed in-full by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a>.The 43.9-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abydos43.9m (144'0&quot;)Venture Yachts2021">Abydos</a> is a true point in case Laupman explained. “We were approached by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4909" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Venture Yachts (Company)">Venture Yachts</a> with a brief from a very experienced Turkish client which specified small, but important details, such as circular portholes across the profile and vertical windows for the wheelhouse. We started with these small details and built the design around his taste.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/22891/image/large-6659764749b44d025009ec8b1da1397f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/22891">“It was actually the interior that required the most attention for this project though”, Laupman confessed. The owner was very specific on certain aspects and features; for instance, he wanted the same vanity fitted that he has in his home. The vanity is large and incredibly ornate, which required <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> to design the master stateroom around this piece of furniture.Something else that was very important for this owner was to have a well-connected and open galley and dining area. “As <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abydos43.9m (144'0&quot;)Venture Yachts2021">Abydos</a> is full custom we had plenty of scope to stretch and pull the dimensions to meet the family’s needs,” Laupman explained. “The owner’s wife loves to cook and spend time preparing food for her family, so the galley plays a very important role in the experience of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abydos43.9m (144'0&quot;)Venture Yachts2021">Abydos</a>.” So much so that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> remodelled the superstructure to allow light to fall directly onto the appliances.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206769/image/large-71309b71a1bcac840c600ab18df7b78e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206769"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206766/image/large-1839468fa009bf5a23e14212715c454f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206766"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4909" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Venture Yachts (Company)">Venture Yachts</a> handled the construction of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abydos43.9m (144'0&quot;)Venture Yachts2021">Abydos</a> and between the Turkish shipyard and the Dutch studio, a highly charismatic sub-500 GT motor yacht came to life. “The client could have easily afforded an 80-metre superyacht, but he didn’t care. He wanted a yacht which he could cruise down rivers and enter certain bays; for this, he needed a yacht under 45-metres.”&nbsp;While small details can have a seismic effect on the overall design, not all requests start small – as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> experienced when it was penning the 45.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Milele45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2022">Milele</a>, which is being built at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/40" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Hakvoort Shipyard (Company)">Royal Hakvoort</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Milele45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2022">Milele</a> is a sub-500 GT motor yacht and her owner was keen to stow an arsenal of toys onboard, including a submarine.&nbsp;“Our client really didn’t want to exceed 45-metres with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Milele45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2022">Milele</a>, so we had a lot of work to fit his wish list into a sub-500 GT package. Tenders and toys are important to him so we designed a large garage and additional storage foredeck, which is where a newly designed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1535" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-Boat Worx B.V. (Company)">U-Boat Worx</a> submarine is located.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/245840/image/large-fee429dfaf097131fb9556a2db214514.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/245840">The level of detail found on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Milele45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2022">Milele</a> is astonishing and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> went to painstaking lengths to shape and design every aspect, including the stairs and rails. “These rails,” Laupman explained, “go up in increments from deck to deck. The client wanted them to be rounded and tapered forward. The design itself looks simple, but this is far from reality.”&nbsp; <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/245839/image/large-6aebbb15dd9c290e2f91d82a6109c2b5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/245839">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/54894" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The great crossroad of design: At the studio with Omega Architects (2022-04-08 11:45:00 +0200)">The great crossroad of design: At the studio with Omega Architects</a>“On production yachts or semi-custom production yachts, adding so many features just wouldn’t be possible,” Albert Hakvoort, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/40" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Hakvoort Shipyard (Company)">Royal Hakvoort Shipyard</a>, said. “But fully-custom projects allow for the flexibility to meet these types of needs. That’s not to say there weren’t any challenges. With a submarine it's not only size you need to consider, but also the weight. &nbsp;And this owner wanted a fast yacht, one which exceeds 25 knots, so we had to get clever with her construction.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/50918/image/large-5a02c54b2c1cc743cf7059d8577b68f2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/50918"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/50917/image/large-aaf0e99b7ae63ef7d86fca493af57c1c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/50917">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55238" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="45m Royal Hakvoort motor yacht Adur launched in the Netherlands (2022-05-27 16:30:00 +0200)">45m Royal Hakvoort motor yacht Adur launched in the Netherlands</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/40" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Hakvoort Shipyard (Company)">Hakvoort</a> has a great dynasty of building and delivering fully-custom bespoke projects, and the team very clearly enjoys these projects. “Playing around with the general arrangement of a superyacht is fun to do,” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/40" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Hakvoort Shipyard (Company)">Hakvoort</a> said. “You can pretty much do anything, as long as you adhere to the rules and regulations.”This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-42" target="_blank">Issue 42 of SuperYacht Times newspaper.</a>&nbsp;To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

Omega Architects on full-custom yachts 

SYT joined Frank Laupman of Omega Architects to discuss the trends of mid-size full-custom yachts. 

Exploring the full-custom mid-size yacht segment with Omega Architects 

During the <a href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival - 2022">Cannes Yachting Festival</a>, Justin Ratcliffe joined Paolo and his daughter Giovanna Vitelli, President and Vice-President of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Azimut-Benetti Group</a>, onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9059" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Goga36.9m (121'1&quot;)Benetti SpA2022">Goga</a> – the first 36.9-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> B.Yond superyacht – to discuss what this innovative new line means for the brand.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XUlgb9a0BJM?&amp;wmode=opaque" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9059" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Goga36.9m (121'1&quot;)Benetti SpA2022">Goga</a> is groundbreaking; she was designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/254" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Stefano Righini Design (Company)">Stefano Righini Design</a>, and the studio drew inspiration from the vision of Paolo Vitelli, who wanted a yacht that spread across four decks that had a contemporary yet powerful aesthetic. Instead of fibreglass, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> made an unusual choice for a boat this size and opted for a return to steel.&nbsp;Justin Ratcliffe delves deep into the vision and mission of Paolo Vitelli in this not-to-be-missed exclusive interview.All of our videos can be found on our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbq-TTBQZi1G4hhao4f6ALg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">YouTube</a> channel and we would love to hear your feedback, so please leave a comment on our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbq-TTBQZi1G4hhao4f6ALg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/2383716/admin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">LinkedIn</a>, or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SuperYachtTimes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;You can also reach us by email at <a href="mailto:news@superyachttimes.com" title="">news@superyachttimes.com</a>!

Onboard Goga with Paolo and Giovanna Vitelli

Justin Ratcliffe delves deep into the vision and mission of Paolo Vitelli in this not-to-be-missed exclusive interview.

Video: Onboard 37m Goga with Paolo and Giovanna Vitelli of Azimut-Benetti Group

The 2023 edition of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/164" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palm Beach International Boat Show - 2023">Palm Beach International Boat Show</a> is quickly approaching and with the show growing in size and presence over the last few years, the list of attending yachts has too. SYT takes a look at some of the yachts making their debut at this year’s show.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261618/image/large-310aa13a14fb03717d92147db6df666c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261618"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8735" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Calex67.0m (219'10&quot;)Benetti SpA2022">Calex</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>&nbsp;| 67-metres&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> announced last week that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8735" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Calex67.0m (219'10&quot;)Benetti SpA2022">Calex</a> will make her world debut at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/164" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palm Beach International Boat Show - 2023">Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023</a>. Delivered in Spring 2022, she features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cassetta Yacht Designers (Company)">Cassetta Yacht Designers</a>, while her interiors are by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>’s in-house studio. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8735" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Calex67.0m (219'10&quot;)Benetti SpA2022">Calex</a> offers accommodation for as many as 14 guests across seven well-appointed staterooms. She is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines and her engine room is “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>’s first on a full custom yacht this size to fully comply with TIER III regulations.”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57148" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="67m Benetti superyacht Calex to make world debut at Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023 (2023-03-14 17:30:00 +0100)">67m Benetti superyacht Calex to make world debut at Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260219/image/large-2ba852a3ee460474d6217b9299d5d529.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260219"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8657" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Entourage60.0m (196'10&quot;)Amels2023">Entourage</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a>&nbsp;| 60-metres | 2023<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8657" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Entourage60.0m (196'10&quot;)Amels2023">Entourage</a>, also known as&nbsp;Witchcraft, was delivered in 2023 as part of the <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/amels" target="_blank">Amels</a> 60 Limited Editions series. The 60-metre superyacht features an exterior design by Monaco-based <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/82" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Espen Øino International (Company)">Espen Øino International</a> and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>, while each unit has a unique interior design. The owners of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8657" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Entourage60.0m (196'10&quot;)Amels2023">Entourage</a> worked closely with Canada-based design studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6415" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burdifilek (Company)">Burdifilek</a>, which developed a luxurious and serene interior. With 853 GT and six spacious staterooms, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8657" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Entourage60.0m (196'10&quot;)Amels2023">Entourage</a> can easily accommodate as many as 12 guests. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57148" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="67m Benetti superyacht Calex to make world debut at Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023 (2023-03-14 17:30:00 +0100)"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57148" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="67m Benetti superyacht Calex to make world debut at Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023 (2023-03-14 17:30:00 +0100)"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262122/image/large-cf0d7d04a3d7e56de64acf9e65977ac8.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262122"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9204" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Foxtrot35.57m (116'8&quot;)Hargrave Custom Yachts2022">Romeo Foxtrot</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1184" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hargrave Custom Yachts (Company)">Hargrave</a>&nbsp;| 35.57-metres&nbsp; <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9204" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Foxtrot35.57m (116'8&quot;)Hargrave Custom Yachts2022">Romeo Foxtrot</a> was launched last year as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1184" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hargrave Custom Yachts (Company)">Hargrave</a> 116 series and will be making her public debut at the show. She features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1184" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hargrave Custom Yachts (Company)">Hargrave Custom Yachts</a> with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jack Sarin Naval Architects, Inc. (Company)">Jack Sarin Naval Architects</a>. Her interiors were penned by Yacht Interiors by Shelley and she can sleep up to 10 guests across a five stateroom configuration.Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57187" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Onboard: 36m Hargrave motor yacht Romeo Foxtrot (2023-03-20 13:00:00 +0100)">Onboard: 36m Hargrave motor yacht Romeo Foxtrot</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57148" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="67m Benetti superyacht Calex to make world debut at Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023 (2023-03-14 17:30:00 +0100)"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57148" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="67m Benetti superyacht Calex to make world debut at Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023 (2023-03-14 17:30:00 +0100)"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262210/image/large-1e52d2ef6032f0c1b13ee110ea848248.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262210"></a>Numarine 26XP Fast | Numarine | 25.7-metres The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1088" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Numarine (Company)">Numarine</a> 26XP Fast is the planing hull version of the already popular <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1088" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Numarine (Company)">Numarine</a> 26 XP model and is considered by the shipyard to be the fastest explorer yacht. She is equipped with twin 1,800 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines which propel her to an impressive top speed of 31 knots. Much like her sistership, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1088" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Numarine (Company)">Numarine</a> 26XP Fast features exterior design from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1211" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Can Yalman (Company)">Can Yalman</a>, with a near-vertical bow and a 65 square-metre flybridge.<img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/262199/image/large-501a3cdff79b9c206dbdfc3d3a9d5ead.png?X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&amp;X-Amz-Credential=AKIA52TLVJASOPFTPHWY%2F20230320%2Feu-west-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&amp;X-Amz-Date=20230320T162157Z&amp;X-Amz-Expires=900&amp;X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&amp;X-Amz-Signature=61ccd418c1a33054f83772a6796219e2d26f374e6133642b85f0c272d1a9a2ce" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262199">wallypower58X |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a>&nbsp;| 17.3-metresThe wallypower58X is the first <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a> yacht to be fitted with the new 600hp <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mercury Marine (Company)">Mercury</a> V12 Verado quadruple engine configuration. With 2,400 horsepower on the transom, the stable and efficient deep V-hull can reach an exhilarating 50 knots. The wallypower58X yacht is able to carry up to 16 guests onboard and has a range of 290 nautical miles.<img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/262201/image/large-6833dd060faeacd24b8ba0c050ba57e2.png?X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&amp;X-Amz-Credential=AKIA52TLVJASOPFTPHWY%2F20230320%2Feu-west-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&amp;X-Amz-Date=20230320T162157Z&amp;X-Amz-Expires=900&amp;X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&amp;X-Amz-Signature=23a0c16daa239fe44b619dc293edfbea55c316e85315e9acb2c3bbdbd0ced3d9" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262201">Sirena 48 |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4910" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sirena Yachts (Company)">Sirena Yachts</a>&nbsp;| 15.96-metres&nbsp;The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5271" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sirena Marine (Company)">Sirena</a> 48 is the smallest model to date from the shipyard and features interior and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5271" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sirena Marine (Company)">Sirena Marine</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="German Frers (Company)">German Frers</a>. She is able to accommodate up to six guests across three staterooms as well as an optional crew member of one. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5271" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sirena Marine (Company)">Sirena</a> 48 is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1483" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cummins Inc. (Company)">Cummins</a> engines that provide her with a top speed of 26 knots and a cruising speed of 23.5 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260286/image/large-35f42735a2c7505068a5370ac24112be.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260286">Zeelander 5 |<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1416" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zeelander Yachts (Company)">&nbsp;Zeelander Yachts&nbsp;</a>| 14.72-metres&nbsp;The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1416" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zeelander Yachts (Company)">Zeelander</a> 5 is an evolution of the award-winning Z44 and features a timeless design, curved aesthetic and silent cruising experience. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1416" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zeelander Yachts (Company)">Zeelander</a> 5 is produced in limited quantities at the Netherlands-based facility, and is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Volvo Penta (Company)">Volvo Penta</a> IPS 500 engines.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57054" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zeelander 5 to preview at Palm Beach Boat International Show 2023 (2023-03-02 12:15:00 +0100)">Zeelander 5 to preview at Palm Beach Boat International Show 2023</a>You can find SYT’s full list of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57085" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The largest yachts attending Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023 (2023-03-06 16:45:00 +0100)">largest yachts attending Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023 here</a>.

Yacht debuts at Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023

SYT takes a look at some of the yachts making their debut at this year’s Palm Beach International Boat Show.

The 36.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2360" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean King (Company)">Ocean King</a> Ducale 120 superyacht is preparing for launch at the Chioggia shipyard in Venice, Italy. The displacement yacht is the first in the Ducale 120 series and is expected to be delivered to her new owners later this year.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262253/image/large-1c68a0a57f95ca53763d3ccb2308f077.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262253"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262252/image/large-c6759871ef93e3effd9571e18083a0b2.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262252">The Ducale 120 features interior and exterior design by Italy-based design house <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VYD Studio (Company)">VYD Studio</a>, with naval architecture penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="InNave (Company)">InNave</a>. The yacht features a steel and aluminium superstructure with an interior volume of 334 GT.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262250/image/large-653ec37a46025b7163b69f1890f5d221.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262250"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262249/image/large-8baaf558f1906cb3f8fda514fa82d26c.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262249">The interior of the Ducale 120 yacht is characterised by modern and elegant lines, exhibiting a harmonious balance between interior and exterior spaces. Her guests will be able to enjoy expanses of light thanks to the vast side windows that can be opened to full height on the side walkways.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56117" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="36m Ocean King Ducale 120 undergoes technical launch in Italy (2022-11-10 16:45:00 +0100)">36m Ocean King Ducale 120 undergoes technical launch in Italy<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262248/image/large-49a3276d7925e5858b705323790640c2.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262248"></a>In terms of accommodation, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2360" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean King (Company)">Ocean King</a> yacht has a five stateroom layout for up to 12 guests, as well as being able to host a crew of seven between four cabins.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262246/image/large-7427115ff2a3491a037b6eebdfdc6f92.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262246">Some of her key features include two swimming pools with a seawater swimming pool built between the wide and deep stern beach club and the main deck. The second swimming pool is heated and located on the sun deck, surrounded by large sun beds and a bar.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262251/image/large-d10167350a6dfb4e7c9631001aa04d5a.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262251"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262245/image/large-fb5c3f51ae2f4dde047a038f63d0adf0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262245">The team is now waiting for high tide tomorrow morning, when she will be loaded onto a floating pontoon so that he propellors can be fitted. She is expected to be in the water in the coming days and for sea trials to begin towards the end of the week. Performance-wise, the Ducale 120 is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines that allow her to reach a top speed of 14 knots, with a cruising speed of 12 knots.&nbsp;

Ocean King’s 37m Ducale 120 yacht launched

Ocean King has announced the launch of the 37m Ocean King Ducale 120 motor yacht in Italy.

First 37m Ocean King Ducale 120 superyacht prepares for launch

Vilanova i La Geltrú has been announced as the host venue for the first Preliminary Regatta of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/190" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="America's Cup 2024 - 37th America's Cup Barcelona">America’s Cup</a>. The first-ever Preliminary Regatta will take place from 14 until 17 September 2023.Vilanova i La Geltrú is a small city 45 kilometres southwest along the coast from the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/190" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="America's Cup 2024 - 37th America's Cup Barcelona">America’s Cup</a> 37th edition host venue Barcelona. Racing will take place outside the port entrance, affording excellent viewing opportunities for spectators.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262196/image/large-33448642745d58b02640549e1330693d.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262196">“The Port of Vilanova i la Geltrú is perfectly set up to host the first Preliminary Event of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/190" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="America's Cup 2024 - 37th America's Cup Barcelona">AC37</a> with everything in such close proximity to the race course,” said <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/190" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="America's Cup 2024 - 37th America's Cup Barcelona">America’s Cup</a> Event CEO Grant Dalton. “Racing will be just metres from the port entrance and prime viewing places will be offered from the La Daurada alongside huge public areas for a great fan village.” The regatta will also be broadcast through a dedicated <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/190" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="America's Cup 2024 - 37th America's Cup Barcelona">America’s Cup</a> television production.“The magnificent facilities of Pendennis Vilanova and Vilanova Grand Marina will serve as the technical area which will host the team bases and their AC40’s and, of course, we will be proud to align with the Club Nàutic Vilanova as the local yacht club for the event,” added Grant Dalton.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/190141/image/large-6046e01182749f07cc54236cc31928fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/190141">The regatta will be sailed in the fleet of AC40’s in strict One Design class measurement as will be used for the Youth and Women’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/190" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="America's Cup 2024 - 37th America's Cup Barcelona">America’s Cups</a>. This ensures the boats are equally matched and the winner will be decided based on sailing technique and foiling race-craft. The regatta gives a first glimpse of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/190" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="America's Cup 2024 - 37th America's Cup Barcelona">America’s Cup</a> elite teams in action.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262244/image/large-b92e95b659650492c92f50bea76e980d.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262244">Albert Castellanos, Secretary for Business and Competitiveness of the Department of Business and Employment of the Generalitat de Catalunya added, "The confirmation of Vilanova i la Geltrú as the venue for the first Preliminary Regatta of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/190" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="America's Cup 2024 - 37th America's Cup Barcelona">37th America's Cup-Barcelona 2024</a> is great news that confirms the commitment of the organisation to bring the sport of sailing to the whole territory, projecting our image to hundreds of millions of people around the world.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262243/image/large-84ded0f239c908bbd09494895bf9c5a7.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262243">The Club Nàutic Vilanova, a large sailing club based in the region, is lending its support to the regatta with its world-class facilities and infrastructure.In addition, the La Daurada restaurant and event venue, La Daurada, will become the social focal point of the regatta. The 10,000 square metre venue overlooks the regatta course, making it an ideal space to host the press centre and hospitality facilities. Mayor of Vilanova, Olga Arnau, said, “I am sure that our town will be a fantastic venue for the competition in the eyes of the world.”

Vilanova i La Geltrú to host AC37 preliminary regatta

Vilanova i La Geltrúhas been announced as the host venue for the preliminary regatta of the America’s Cup in September 2023.

Vilanova i La Geltrú to host Preliminary Regatta of the 37th America’s Cup

The yacht tender builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> is known for its sophisticated level of construction and engineering when it comes to fibreglass and carbonfibre vessels. The Australia-based shipyard builds to a vast array of requirements, while ensuring that each tender meets its high quality and integrity standards– and the 8.1-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> SP Limousine is no exception.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194897/image/large-c15d1dc96cc0b109711ae0053b191d81.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194897">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> SP Limousine is a customisable tender that is able to mirror elements and details of her mothership. The sleek enclosed tender allows owners to adapt her proven design to create a cohesive fleet, while retaining <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a>’s immaculate finish.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194836/image/large-93114644962e04f827a32e7ac682208c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194836">The 8.1-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> SP Limousine is of unique distinction, packed with features that make her stand out from other competitors. Her stylish exterior includes side decks that run the full length of the cabin, making access from helm aft on both sides functional, and safe for crew and guests alike.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194905/image/large-78ad2d761e88bc16d90a5af3f5af1343.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194905">The quality and construction of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> tenders is second to none, with features specific to both the owners requests and imagination. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> SP Limousine introduces guests to safe and relaxing yachting with an impressive interior design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194903/image/large-9530354a0398235c15d08f368c7c1c39.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194903"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194901/image/large-934b9cfa0c098ab5f950f900dcf0d8e8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194901">The 8.1-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> SP Limousine tender welcomes guests onboard from her boarding foyer and accommodates them with excellent headroom. Her 2.49-metre beam complements her comfortable seating to allow for a safe and reliable journey.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194834/image/large-d19db97e595c8f3a6eca26d852321121.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194834">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> SP Limousine is able to carry up to 12 guests, alongside a crew of two to ensure that guests always receive the highest quality of service to match her impressive performance.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194832/image/large-71a0abbf17b69f7842bff204a0fabd93.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194832">Guests onboard the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> SP Limousine are also able to take advantage of her large windows and spacious air-conditioned interior, as well as her height-adjustable roof. The adaptable roof is electrically operated and auto lockable at any height, and allows the owner to control the airflow through the cabin when moving or stationary.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194906/image/large-07090327e83dfe557ca9f5cd473ab1cc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194906">The uber-sleek and sophisticated design of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> SP Limousine tender allows for easy storage when not in use. At just 1.86-metres in height, she is able to fit into a very low transom garage, making her a versatile tender.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194895/image/large-b86a2f0d91e499c0ee22d5083e8a88d3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194895">Performance-wise, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> SP Limousine is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1450" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Volvo (Company)">Volvo</a> D3, 200 horsepower engines as standard. With an eye-watering top speed of 38 knots, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> SP Limousine includes steering and throttle by wire, a single throttle control and joystick docking.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194881/image/large-906c02ada528698d204bb8dc1f23e22c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194881">In terms of propulsion, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vikal International (Company)">Vikal</a> SP Limousine tender is fitted with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1450" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Volvo (Company)">Volvo</a> DPS Duoprop drives with twin horsepower bow thrusters to ensure that guests always arrive at their destination efficiently and in style.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/194835/image/large-2a042d68bcf97d71bab68228413bd689.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/194835">

Introducing the Vikal SP 8.1m Limousine tender

Introducing the Vikal SP 8.1m Limousine tender, packed with features that make her stand out from other competitors.

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nobiskrug (Company)">Nobiskrug</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2169" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Messerschmitt Yachts GmbH (Company)">Messerschmitt Yacht Design</a> have unveiled the renderings for a new 78.8-metre superyacht concept, MTT-Shield. The concept was created by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nobiskrug (Company)">Nobiskrug</a> in collaboration with Swiss design studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2169" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Messerschmitt Yachts GmbH (Company)">Messerschmitt Yachts</a>. She was designed for long-range journeys across all oceans, described as an oceangoing ‘long bonnet racing car’. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262194/image/large-044eb13941c2061b56e7fba0bd70b4b7.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262194">MTT-Shield offers three different entry points. Guests can board at the stern thanks to a large twin platform and twin staircases ascending to the main deck aft. Alternatively, guests can also enter via the hydraulic foldable gangway on the starboard side. The third major access point is the large helipad, featuring broad staircases on both sides that lead to a hidden relaxation area in front of the wheel house. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262188/image/large-f2174d1c3483f189dbb013534f807611.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262188">Inside, MTT-Shield provides a sumptuous interior and several lounges to ensure a comfortable stay onboard. Surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows, passengers are spoiled with splendid panoramic views of the ocean. The main saloon features large sliding doors on either side to fill the space with fresh air. The central elevator connects each of the four levels, allowing for easy access throughout the yacht. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262192/image/large-ec2f821ea18661565946ce9498f9b4ea.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262192">Her six-stateroom configuration includes a full-beam owner’s suite on the main deck, with the remaining guest staterooms situated on the lower deck. The spacious owner’s suite benefits from a private office, dressing room, and a balcony, creating a private hideaway onboard. She is able to accommodate up to 18 crew to ensure her guests have a comfortable cruising experience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262191/image/large-881ffdb9a6ba1f510577553646482102.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262191">MTT-Shield’s exterior boasts numerous luxurious amenities, perfect for lengthier cruises. On her lower deck, guests can wind-down in the fully-equipped spa, which contains a plunge pool, hammam, and a sauna. Her generously-sized tender garage is able to store a plethora of toys, so guests can turn the ocean into their own personal playground.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262190/image/large-d031fb666e06d2a390673752cd5c5aba.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262190">Up on the main deck lies more lounging areas, including a large Jacuzzi, and an alfresco dining area for 12, shaded to block any uncomfortable sunlight while dining. A bar, ideal for evening cocktails, is located next to the dining area. Her sundeck features a fitness area, another Jacuzzi, and more seating options, so guests can sit back and relax after a satisfying training session.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262195/image/large-2b7cfd9f4716a88dd5cff69aa84d8db5.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262195">Performance-wise, the motor yacht is able to reach a top speed of 17 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots.

Nobiskrug unveils new 79m superyacht concept MTT-Shield

Nobiskrug and Messerschmitt Yacht Design have unveiled the renderings for a new 78.8-metre superyacht concept, MTT-Shield.

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MTT-Shield: Nobiskrug and Messerschmitt Yacht Design unveil new 79m superyacht concept

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> has acquired a 70,000 square-metre located production site in Ravenna, Italy, which was financed entirely with equity raised by the company’s listing on the Hong Kong stock exchange.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> is a world leader in the design, construction, and sales of luxury yachts. Led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> owns and manages seven shipyards across Italy and has recently announced the acquisition of a new production facility in San Vitale, province of Ravenna.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/205162/image/large-55c378269a7c50145cf5561442898726.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/205162">“Ravenna is the right home for Wally sailing yachts and the expansion of our other brands, starting with the extraordinary <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti</a> Yachts<a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12694" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti InFYnito 9026.97m (88'6&quot;)">&nbsp;INFYNITO&nbsp;</a>range. We choose Italy again and invest not only to become stronger but also to hold the flag high for an industry that is a symbol of our country: luxury yachting and the extensive entrepreneurship and artisan craftsmanship network that is the admiration and envy of the entire world,” commented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> CEO, &nbsp;Alberto Galassi. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220951/image/large-395cb676eccc2227c5cd58d5e78808e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220951"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">The Ferretti Group</a> will invest a total cost of 80 million euros towards the 70,000 square-metre site, including a dry dock. The initial acquisition investment cost the Italian company around 40 million euros, while over the next three years, a further 40 million euros will be needed to craft new production spaces and an R&amp;D centre.&nbsp;This acquisition underpins the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group’s</a> ambitions and growth strategy, with this recent facility looking to enable them to increase their production by 20%. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group&nbsp;</a>CEO Alberto Galassi explains how this “acquisition keeps a promise” as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> “have big plans and picture a state-of-the-art production site from every point of view: worker well-being, positive social impact, and environmental protection.” The new space is conveniently close to their Forlì headquarters and Cattolica shipyard. Other investments from the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> have included expansions across the La Spezia and Ancona Superyacht Yard, which aligns with the Italian company’s five-year growth strategy.

Ferretti Group expands and acquires a Ravenna site

Ferretti Group acquires a production site in Ravenna, forming part of their five-year growth strategy.



Ferretti Group acquires 70,000 square-metre production site in Ravenna, Italy

Unique superyacht beach clubs

SuperYacht Times has rounded up some of the best Superyacht beach clubs featuring wellness spas, swimming pools, cocktail bars, and much more. 

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A closer look at 5 unique superyacht beach clubs

The 26.42-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2320" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marlow Yachts (Company)">Marlow</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12339" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Never My Love26.42m (86'8&quot;)Marlow Yachts2016">Never My Love</a> was sold in an in-house deal by Brandon Barnes from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a>, who represented both the buyer and the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/254430/image/large-a0023b2be0985dcb1a2d8b5155130bb1.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/254430"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12339" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Never My Love26.42m (86'8&quot;)Marlow Yachts2016">Never My Love</a> was delivered in 2016 from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2320" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marlow Yachts (Company)">Marlow’s</a> shipyard in China. She was fully designed by her builder, who provided her with the finest equipment and the newest generation of technology. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/254437/image/large-04598ded75d11d7f95f1da2542fa1b39.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/254437"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12339" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Never My Love26.42m (86'8&quot;)Marlow Yachts2016">Never My Love</a> features a functional layout with a spacious and modern interior. Her main saloon is surrounded by windows and contains a white L-shaped sofa accompanied by armchairs, a wide-screen television, and a bar forward. She can accommodate up to eight guests across four sumptuous staterooms, including a full-beam master suite with plenty of storage space. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/254428/image/large-dd644a92e665bfe35bffc068bcc687b2.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/254428"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/254427/image/large-20f7b4c9f320669aa0e95fd6bcd351b6.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/254427">Her exterior decks offer numerous seating options, including a wet bar equipped with a grill area and fridge, sunbeds, and an alfresco dining table.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/254423/image/large-56b84ad6e71c941b2c8cb4815bd47601.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/254423">Performance-wise, the 131 GT motor yacht is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines, allowing her to reach a top speed of 29 knots and a cruising speed of 24 knots. At the time of her sale, she had a last-known asking price of $3,695,000.

26m Marlow motor yacht Never My Love sold

The 26.42-metre Marlow motor yacht Never My Love sold with a last-known asking price of $3,695,000.

Yachting Dinner Night, the culinary event dedicated to the leading players of the contemporary superyacht scene, arrived for the second time in Pietrasanta, Viareggio, Italy. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261856/image/large-eec070df5f80b9517b72715376fdaa6f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261856">The previous two editions in Pietrasanta and Amsterdam were a great success and inspired curators <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7067" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Towant (Company)">TOWANT</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7068" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ceragioli-Storåkers Associates (Company)">Ceragioli-Storåkers Associates</a> to replicate the event once again. The dinner was held on 14 March.Five shipyards competed against one another to present the best dish to an audience of nautical-architectural practices, international design brands and the press. As “chefs”, the shipyards are the protagonists of Yachting Dinner Night, with each proposing a dish that tells something about its history, philosophy or projects. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261852/image/large-d7a00d30a1e0cc0e4594379d2d9efc9b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261852"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/86" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amico & Co. s.r.l. (Company)">Amico &amp; Co</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, Amer Yachts, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> took to the kitchen for the first Yachting Dinner Night of 2023. But before guests were invited to sit down and enjoy the curated dishes, a presentation of both Yachting Dinner Night and its protagonists was held nearby at Barbara Paci Art Gallery, a contemporary gallery in Pietrasanta historical centre. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261858/image/large-84d8562ed31eb60691909eb4135aada9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261858"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261860/image/large-ba54d365d65d7465b248ce2cd191c475.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261860"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261862/image/large-f038aec91cc2bd29865690bbf6c60a60.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261862">The dinner itself was hosted at the vibrant kitchen that conjoins the gallery, Ristorante Filippo. The shipyards arranged a five courses menu of creative dishes: Sinergia, a typical capponada from Liguria; OSS-Paragus Bake, a silver-plated fish &amp; asparagus that pays tribute to Heesen’s Dutch origins; The Blooming Effect, a green risotto with flowers from Sanremoen tradition; Muscoli a km 0, mussels from La Spezia, Italy; and The Origin of Beauty, a special dessert to celebrate Benetti’s 150th birthday.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261863/image/large-85f4db16e99c3b81f62cbe1f2175dfe9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261863"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261853/image/large-010395619f68ac51dc8ee1ff8dd596b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261853"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261855/image/large-af00dac7a67359fda6ad2c1efe1cc516.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261855">Cesana, Dornbracht, Flos, Model Maker Group and Videoworks, as well as representatives from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2589" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss) (Company)">SYBAss</a> and the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1429" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show (Company)">Monaco Yacht Show</a>, formed the jury. While the media, including a representative of SuperYacht Times, had a separate vote for the press award. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261857/image/large-e93a29bcd270f8332c10e6858b5daa66.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261857">The votes were cast and, while all shipyards were awarded merit and praise for their participation, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> was the unanimous winner, claiming both the Yachting Dinner Night Award and the Press Award.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57183" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A recap of the Amsterdam Yachting Dinner Night (2022-11-28 11:00:00 +0100)">A recap of the Amsterdam Yachting Dinner Night</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261859/image/large-adf7ce7d3cb26ba833f12d9d578956d1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261859">Yachting Dinner Night once again proved to be a great success, promising to become a staple event that moves from location to location. Organisers <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7067" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Towant (Company)">TOWANT</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7068" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ceragioli-Storåkers Associates (Company)">Ceragioli-Storåkers</a> are already planning the next dinner, which will be held in the Principality of Monaco. This convivial event, aimed at engaging guests, has aroused a lot of interest in building and nurturing networks in the world of yachting.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261861/image/large-f9ff5e3309acce59c6501543a20bce15.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261861">

Yachting Dinner Night in Pietrasanta before YARE 

Yachting Dinner Night had a successful third event, held in Pietrasanta Italy. Benetti was named winner with its desert Origin of Beauty. 

A third success for Yachting Dinner Night in Pietrasanta

After a three day battle is customary high winds and bright sunshine, the 33.24-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Denship A/S (Company)">Royal Denship</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/72" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nakupenda33.24m (109'1&quot;)Royal Denship A/S2005">Nakupenda</a> won the St Barths Bucket 2023 over this weekend. 25 yachts competed between the five racing classes that took part in this year's event; Les Gazelles, Les Elegantes, Les Mademoiselles, L'Esprit 1 and L'Esprit 2 (the Corinthian Spirit Class). <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/66" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Red Dragon51.7m (169'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Red Dragon</a>, the 51.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/60" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alloy Yachts (Company)">Alloy Yachts</a>, a regular on the race circuit, took home the prize for best owner driven performance, while her sistership the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/60" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alloy Yachts (Company)">Alloy Yachts</a> 51.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1226" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Prana51.7m (169'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2006">Prana</a>, was awarded best starter.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262098/image/large-a9663124253318752df558799d73ca73.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262098"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262018/image/large-d987aa7f202ad57c9f622d7c1de9f44b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262018"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262068/image/large-da7bd64052ae4e40c41a7d94b6f1afe1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262068">Race Day 1The first day of the regatta saw the fleet sail counterclockwise in an 28-25 knot northerly, with the conditions forcing three yachts to withdraw from the 20-26 nautical mile course.&nbsp;“After our light-air training this week, today was a wake-up call, but expected,” said Tom Whidden, helmsman for the smallest yacht in the fleet, the 28 metre ketch <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7754" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bequia27.61m (90'7&quot;)Brooklin Boat Yard 2009">Bequia</a>, which won Les Mademoiselles. “It was really rough in the corner on the other side of the island, on the way to the rock (a natural mark of the course named Ile Fourchue), but we were happy with the crew work and the boat management.” Whidden has won the Bucket before on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7754" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bequia27.61m (90'7&quot;)Brooklin Boat Yard 2009">Bequia</a>&nbsp;and twice more on different entries (including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil</a>, last year). He added with a chuckle, “You see, the captains of these boats tell you they will kill you if you break anything, so you have to be careful with your resources.” &nbsp;(<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil</a>, sailing this year against Whidden’s team, retired due to a headstay furler that broke near Ile Fourche.)<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262024/image/large-7b2364e42cda9f5e3493ba2c97459efa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262024"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262022/image/large-55d4467729a449d63a85cf4909f28a41.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262022">Peter King, navigator aboard the 52 metre sloop <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/66" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Red Dragon51.7m (169'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Red Dragon</a>, which won L’Esprit 1, said his team “didn’t have the best start but made up for it later and didn’t break anything.” This is King’s fifth time competing in the Bucket and first time sailing in the “Corinthian Spirit” class. More important, it is the first time <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/66" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Red Dragon51.7m (169'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Red Dragon</a> has ever raced period, so the yacht’s owner is delighted. “The owner loves to drive, so he drove the whole time and did a great job,” said King.The 44-metre schooner <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5645" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Columbia43.03m (141'2&quot;)Eastern Shipbuilding Group2014">Columbia</a>, one of the most elegant yachts in the L'Esprit 2 fleet, recorded a 43.5 degree of heel on its winning sprint. “We were taking a lot of water over the deck but we were under control,” said guest crew Jakob Havrlant, who counts this as his first Bucket but says it won’t be his last. “Some of the sloops were catching us upwind, but we were a reaching machine on the other legs. It was a perfect race for us.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262032/image/large-3b5b9f18e2aeb1b28744676f0fdc61b6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262032"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262031/image/large-0ec3a3f6dab99fc18126e6e86b5123fb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262031">Race Day 2The second day saw yet another high wind event with 25-27 knots over the 23-26 nautical mile course. “It was a lot of wave action and wind, with gust of 25-27 knots,” said Steve Rowland, the owner/driver of the 34 metre sloop <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/72" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nakupenda33.24m (109'1&quot;)Royal Denship A/S2005">Nakupenda</a>, which now leads Les Mademoiselles after suffering a steering problem and finishing fourth yesterday. “It made for a lot of hard work, but we won, so I guess that was a good thing!” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262028/image/large-63d1c5872098bfe93ae5d3dd11b57f38.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262028"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262030/image/large-4420de271e2f182aa983a156bd435a38.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262030">The yacht was the fourth to cross the start line, but was the first to cross the finish line, despite an issue with her spinnaker during the opening leg. She managed to peg <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5645" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Columbia43.03m (141'2&quot;)Eastern Shipbuilding Group2014">Columbia</a> to cross the line first, followed closely by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7754" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bequia27.61m (90'7&quot;)Brooklin Boat Yard 2009">Bequia</a> and the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman Shipyard BV (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> sloop <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5558" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Action37.3m (122'5&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2015">Action</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262103/image/large-eb6046c44b2cb0daea1b7999db055ee6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262103"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262104/image/large-2e8fe29f68d01d3f44b25d15f34e30d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262104">In Les Gazelles class the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4749" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="WinWin33.04m (108'5&quot;)Baltic Yachts2014">WinWin</a> took the top spot, overtaking the Day 1 winner, another <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Visione44.84m (147'1&quot;)Baltic Yachts2002">Visione</a>. “Yesterday we got stuck behind some other boats and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Visione44.84m (147'1&quot;)Baltic Yachts2002">Visione</a>, faster on the reaches, beat us right at the end,” said <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4749" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="WinWin33.04m (108'5&quot;)Baltic Yachts2014">WinWin</a>’s Captain Will Glenn, explaining that today, with longer downwind legs than yesterday, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4749" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="WinWin33.04m (108'5&quot;)Baltic Yachts2014">WinWin</a> had an advantage. “It is what <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4749" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="WinWin33.04m (108'5&quot;)Baltic Yachts2014">WinWin</a>&nbsp;is designed for, and tomorrow’s course has lots of downwind in it, too, so we are confident we can win.”In the L’Esprit 2 Columbia once again took the top spot, with the 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/401" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Q52.0m (170'7&quot;)Alloy Yachts2008">Q</a> close behind her and 56.1-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Melek56.01m (183'9&quot;)Perini Navi2010">Melek</a> taking the third position.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262038/image/large-cc10bb13691545eabe92a582675dd8ee.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262038"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262057/image/large-864b8c3fbf9a53d71b6cfac7007f653a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262057">Race Day 3The wind on this last day of the three-day series toned down ever so slightly to 18-24 knots, giving sailors somewhat of a reprieve from the 20-26 knots that prevailed on Friday and Saturday. In all classes, the leaders of Day 2 held their own to clinch overall victory on the final race day.“The wind and sea state was definitely at the upper end for some boats, and certainly for the Race Committee making decisions,” said Race Chairman Peter Craig. “Typically, we sail around the island on Sunday, but we made a decision to keep the boats in the lee of St. Barths for the larger part of today’s race with a course option that was newly added to the Bucket this year.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262059/image/large-752263cd59cbb776f083830aeaf328c1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262059"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262060/image/large-e591bf54e38666089bf3a4465ed2aa27.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262060"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/72" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nakupenda33.24m (109'1&quot;)Royal Denship A/S2005">Nakupenda</a> won the six-boat Mademoiselles to take overall victory in that class with a 4-1-1 score line. “I’m over the top about it,” said <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/72" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nakupenda33.24m (109'1&quot;)Royal Denship A/S2005">Nakupenda</a>’s owner/driver Steve Rowland, explaining that this is his fourth Bucket with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/72" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nakupenda33.24m (109'1&quot;)Royal Denship A/S2005">Nakupenda</a> and his first class win, not to mention overall victory, which is decided by a number of factors including performance and time differentials. “We were in a three-way tie going into today with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7754" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bequia27.61m (90'7&quot;)Brooklin Boat Yard 2009">Bequia</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5558" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Action37.3m (122'5&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2015">Action</a>, so we knew we had to beat both of them. I tried not to think of anything but getting to the finish line once we had passed Bequia (the 28 metre ketch that started ahead) in the final miles of the race and had <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5558" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Action37.3m (122'5&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2015">Action</a> (the 37 metre sloop that started behind) gaining on us from behind.” (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7754" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bequia27.61m (90'7&quot;)Brooklin Boat Yard 2009">Bequia</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5558" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Action37.3m (122'5&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2015">Action</a> finished second and third, respectively, in overall results.)<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262087/image/large-eefdccb01be2ca2a8ff27ac454f9585f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262087">In the L’Esprit 2 Corinthia Spirit Class Columbia held her own and was the only class winner to also win every one of her races. The 49.8-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/925" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Almyra II49.8m (163'5&quot;)Perini Navi2000">Almyra II</a> was her closest competitor, taking the second position. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262015/image/large-673bdaf099414fbd8852e797abee99af.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262015">“In both the first and second races, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/925" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Almyra II49.8m (163'5&quot;)Perini Navi2000">Almyra II</a> was ahead of us,” said <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5645" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Columbia43.03m (141'2&quot;)Eastern Shipbuilding Group2014">Columbia</a>’s tactician Tony Rey, “and I have to give credit to our crew members who handled the spinnaker, because we were able to pass them back both times on downwind legs.” On day one, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5645" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Columbia43.03m (141'2&quot;)Eastern Shipbuilding Group2014">Columbia</a> started first and finished first, putting others on alert that this was not just a modern-built recreation of a 1924 fishing schooner that would be slogging around the course. “The boat’s like one of those old flexible flyer sleds you might have had when you were a kid; everything moves and bends but it keeps moving ahead,” said Rey. “We had a mix of traditional schooner sailors and grand prix sailors working together. Our navigator Nacho Postigo helped bring some digital know-how to an analog boat and tracked our progress over the last three days; it was nice to see how we improved as a team.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262092/image/large-9842c9b7f11fc4741ac716d38bb4b863.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262092"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262094/image/large-8f33ee74c55528b13ccf3ce367b5faa7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262094">

St Barths Bucket 2023 results

The St Barths Bucket 2023 came to a close over the weekend with Nakupenda taking the top spot.

St Barths Bucket 2023: Nakupenda winner, with Red Dragon and Prana awarded special prizes 

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