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 

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Abydos yacht exterior

Monaco Yacht Show 2021

Frank Laupman

Miele yacht exterior design 

Jan Jaap Minnema - Monaco Yacht Market

Hakvoort Project Adur interior design 

Hakvoort Project Adur exterior design 

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 

The UK's tax authority, HM Revenue &amp; Customs (HMRC), has issued new guidance clarifying how fuel supplied to superyachts should be treated for duty purposes.Issued June 2026, the guidance does not introduce new legislation, but instead reinforces HMRC’s position that most superyachts, including many operating in the charter market, should be regarded as private pleasure craft, rather than commercial vessels when purchasing fuel in the UK.SuperYacht Times breaks down exactly what this new guidance means for superyacht fuel supply in the UK. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/375442/image/large-54e7aee42496cdefed23d149da2e9f5e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/375442">What has HMRC said?The new guidance provides fuel suppliers with greater clarity on how to determine whether a vessel qualifies as a private pleasure craft (PPC), or a commercial vessel. According to HMRC, a vessel is considered a private pleasure craft when it is used for private or recreational purposes by its owner, charterer or any guests permitted to use it. This includes leisure cruising, holidays and private charters undertaken for recreational purposes.The guidance emphasises that a yacht's ownership structure, commercial registration status or crew arrangements do not automatically make it a commercial vessel for fuel-duty purposes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395931/image/large-1b97bd788627c1a902a84bcaf7f1e970.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395931">Why are superyachts specifically mentioned?HMRC explains that although many superyachts and support vessels are commercially owned and available for charter, this alone does not mean they should be treated as commercial vessels when fuel is supplied.A superyacht should be considered a PPC if either the owner or charterer determines how the vessel is used and enjoys it for their own or guests’ leisure purposes. This applies even when a yacht is professionally crewed or operating under a charter arrangement.Therefore superyachts and support vessels should only be considered commercial in exceptional circumstances, such as when they are contracted by a government authority or industrial customer to supply non-recreational services. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/378222/image/large-9dabe457a6a0c831b4f7d237793820d3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/378222">Why does this matter for superyachts?The distinction between a private pleasure craft and a commercial vessel is important because different fuel-duty treatments apply. There are two types of fuel in the UK relating to superyachts, which are white diesel and red diesel.&nbsp;White diesel is the standard diesel which is sold at the full rate of fuel duty. This means that VAT is applied at standard rates and no relief is available. White diesel is often used for road transport and any fuel use that does not qualify for a rebate.&nbsp;Red diesel is the same standard diesel, but it has been dyed red to indicate that it should be sold at a reduced rate of fuel duty. This is often referred to as “marked gas oil” and is intended for specific exempt or lower tax purposes such as, non-propulsion use on vessels like generators or heating, or for some agricultural, construction and industrial application on land.PPC’s are not eligible to receive red diesel duty-free under Marine Voyages Relief, or to use it for propulsion at the lower, rebated duty rate. Under the new HMRC guidance, superyachts and support vessels should be considered as PPC’s.&nbsp;However, HMRC has also stated that you can supply red diesel to a PPC in Great Britain, but the customer must declare the split between propulsion and non-propulsion use and the full rate of VAT applies to all red diesel supplies of 2,300 litres or more. The fuel supplier is also responsible for paying the additional amount due for propulsion. Red diesel for non-propulsion uses on a PPC, for example for heating or generating electricity, can be supplied without additional fuel duty if all the conditions are met.As a result of this, the use of red diesel is heavily regulated due to its lower price from standard white diesel, and if it is used for purposes other than the rules mentioned above, the HMRC treats this as fuel duty evasion.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/375650/image/large-276a87f67cc160786bebc3b9183df6c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/375650">What impact could this have on fuel costs?On 15 June, the red diesel rate was reduced from 10.18 pence per litre, to 6.48 pence per litre, until 31 December 2026. However, the white diesel duty rate is currently 52.95 pence per litre. This leads to a 46.47 pence per litre difference in duty to be paid to HMRC on fuel for PPC propulsion.While the exact financial impact will vary depending on a yacht's fuel consumption and operating profile, the amount could be significantly higher for larger vessels. For example, a superyacht taking on 50,000 litres of propulsion fuel could face an additional duty liability of approximately £23,235. For a vessel bunkering 100,000 litres, that figure rises to around £46,470 before VAT is applied.As a result, the classification of a vessel can have a significant impact on the total cost of fuel purchased in the UK, particularly for larger superyachts taking on substantial quantities of fuel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377386/image/large-be7ad0f93133f1194f69440d38ecd477.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377386">What should owners and operators take away from the guidance?The guidance does not create new legislation, but it does provide a clearer indication of how HMRC expects fuel suppliers to assess superyachts and their support vessels.For owners, charterers, yacht managers and fuel suppliers, the document reinforces the importance of understanding how a vessel's use, rather than its ownership structure or registration status, may affect its fuel-duty treatment when operating in the UK.You must first confirm if the vessel is a PPC or is operating commercially, but pleasure vessels such as superyachts should be treated at PPC’s, unless clear evidence of commercial use is provided.&nbsp;A declaration between propulsion and non-propulsion use should be obtained and the additional duty for propulsion should be paid to HMRC. HMRC also stated that if claimed commercial use is unclear, always ask for a written statement and copies of documented evidence.&nbsp;“Whilst misinterpretation or application of the law by suppliers and the resulting access to lower fuel prices may seem tempting, the risk to the captain’s career, the vessel’s ownership structure and ultimately the UBO’s entire tax position, by unlawfully using non or reduced, duty or VAT paid fuel for a fully chargeable purpose, makes it a practice that should always be avoided," added Ben Mahy Technical Director, of port VAT clearance experts, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7132" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bachmann Group (Company)">Bachmann Group</a>."Yacht Management companies and Family Offices have an obligation to always operate superyachts within the laws of the jurisdictions that they visit. This new HMRC Guidance and the forthcoming updates to HMRC Notices it references, gives much needed clarification of the fuel duty that superyachts should be lawfully paying whenever bunkering fuel in the UK."If you have any questions regarding the new guidance, contact the HMRC Fuel Duty Policy Team at: <a href="mailto:oils.policymail@hmrc.gov.uk" target="_blank">oils.policymail@hmrc.gov.uk</a>&nbsp;

What the UK's new fuel duty guidance means for superyachts

HMRC has clarified how fuel supplied to superyachts should be treated in the UK. We explain what the new fuel-duty guidance means.

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Explained: What the UK's new fuel duty guidance means for superyachts

Sitting across from me is Sampriti Bhattacharyya, a woman who can’t help but push past any boundary placed on her path. What’s most striking about this is that she does it with grace and speaks of it humbly - an ode to her intellect not just in the field of technological development, but her emotional intelligence too. From moving across continents and oceans to designing groundbreaking technology for the US military, Sampriti has unexpectedly found her way into the yachting industry at the helm of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Navier (Company)">Navier</a>, a company set to redefine water travel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/383526/image/large-c68e149a038779a749301544dea136ce.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/383526">A journey across oceans: From India to AmericaGrowing up in Kolkata, India, Sampriti didn’t have cable TV until she was 16; one of the first things she watched was the Apollo mission to the moon. “The idea that people are going outside of planet Earth, it completely changed what humanity is capable of doing,” shares Sampriti. She was a curious kid, a trait she still holds dear to her heart, and has lived a life exploring solutions for any kind of problem, yet mainly those that, when solved, can fundamentally change how you interact with the world.&nbsp;Yet growing up in India, Sampriti didn’t have many opportunities, especially as a young woman. By the age of 20, owning her first computer, it was a singular email that ended up getting her a ticket to America. From there, alone and a world away from her family, Sampriti shifted her focus to high energy physics at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory/Fermilab in Illinois. “I was always fascinated by space and understanding the universe, but down the line, I realised we might leave that for artificial general intelligence (AGI) to figure that stuff out.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/383528/image/large-83e7e7e14cc75902db67627fc977be68.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/383528">Shifting her focus from purely experimental physics to a more hands-on approach, building machines and nuclear reactors, Sampriti ended up working on aircraft controls for NASA before starting her PhD at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).In 2014, when Malaysian Airline Flight 370 disappeared, Sampriti was working on building underwater drones to be used for ocean mapping. “Everyone’s talking about going to the moon and occupying Mars, but we have 70% of the world’s real estate, the ocean, our very own backyard and we don’t even know when an airplane gets lost.”&nbsp;It was a topic that deeply intrigued Sampriti: “I went down a rabbit hole of understanding the entire maritime industry.” She quickly learned that it’s very much of a legacy-based industry, yet that it has infinite potential. “Everything we use moves on this water: food, all kinds of goods, and the future of energy. It’s not in space.” The auto-industry was being transformed, as well as aerospace, computing, sensing, scalable manufacturing and propulsion technologies: “if you apply the same technology stack to maritime manufacturing, which is still a very fragmented, old school industry, you can make not just a little bit of a difference, rather, you can fundamentally change the way the industry works. I was convinced that, like there is a Tesla and a SpaceX, there will be an equivalent vertically integrated maritime company.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/383534/image/large-e9498aaaf85ece20432436236098485e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/383534">Introducing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Navier (Company)">Navier</a>Occupying that space is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Navier (Company)">Navier</a>, a company focused on radically changing the maritime industry, founded and owned by Sampriti herself. With a mission of building the most compelling, software driven marine vessels, Sampriti and her team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Navier (Company)">Navier</a> strive to build boats that drastically reduce operational costs and unlock a new era of clean, scalable waterborne transportation for both people and goods. “I didn’t set out to build sustainable boats, I just wanted to build the best boats, and those happen to be electric and hydrofoiling,” Sampriti notes humorously. Working to understand the physics and economics behind a gas-based boat, “you have this big body and you’re trying to push water; it takes a lot of energy.” It’s a hindrance in cities like Amsterdam or San Francisco, where efficient transportation via water could cut a lot of time and costs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/383550/image/large-acf9f7fcc25a130b6a325084da808be1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/383550">The boat Sampriti has built at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Navier (Company)">Navier</a> is hydrofoiling and electric. When looking at the operational costs of a boat, there are two elements: there’s fuel and there is labour needed to push a boat through the water. A <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Navier (Company)">Navier</a> boat doesn’t have this, instead, by using electric hydrofoiling there is no plowing through the water, making the vessel “incredibly efficient: the electric hydrofoiling delivers ~10x efficiency versus a conventional gas boat. About 70 percent of that gain comes from hydrofoiling, and ~ 30 percent from electrification” highlights Sampriti. Another benefit is that hydrofoil and electric together is also much cheaper than a regular gas-based vessel. “People don’t realise that ‘electric’ has a lot of efficiency: it gives about 30% more operational cost-efficiency.”Sampriti highlights another benefit of hydrofoiling, stating how “it gives you a much better ride experience because there is no seasickness; electric also means it’s noise free.” The boat is sustainable, yet Sampriti isn’t a fan of the overused buzzword, instead, she relates it back to her original goal: “Let's build the best boat. And that happens to be hydrofoiling and electric.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/383529/image/large-f4e59995e4f20f4a02a2b6d8cb5c76ab.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/383529">Building for the futureThe actual build of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Navier (Company)">Navier</a> boat, the N30 Pioneer Edition, started in 2022 and the first batch was delivered last year. Currently Sampriti and her team are busy with deliveries of the N30 Pioneer Edition II, starting around April of this year. Both the Pioneer I and II are 100 percent electric. The Pioneer II also incorporates more advanced features, including Starlink and NACS fast charging.Not long after starting on Pioneer I, Sampriti was approached by a defence company. Having previous experience in building military-grade technology, it seemed like a very natural collaboration for Sampriti’s business. The N30 Quanta, unveiled at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2025, is the longest range vessel in its category. Sampriti shares that it’s “a 30-foot hybrid electrical vessel with a range of 700 nautical miles for the civilian variant, and a range of 2,000 nautical miles for the defence variant; both at a cruising speed of 20 knots. It fundamentally changes what America can do at sea.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/383551/image/large-79279829441e5bae48e6e420a812b554.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/383551">Currently the United States sits at number 19 when it comes to the maritime industry, a stark contrast to having been number one until the Second World War. “After that, incentives weren’t given to shipyards, labour cost was very high and there were too many regulations,” shares Sampriti. Yet the tides are turning: “It’s a huge geopolitical, national security and trade risk because 90 percent of goods are transported across the ocean.” Sampriti shares how, slowly, people are waking up to the maritime reality, “there’s a lot of push on ship building again. It’s not just about naval power, but rather building a maritime ground with standardised, common platforms that can be repurposed for defence, cargo and transportation.”Sampriti’s view is holistic, noting that “each of these platforms and ships have commonalities. At <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Navier (Company)">Navier</a>, we’re focused on building the first-of-its-kind Generalised Marine Vessel Platform (GMVP), designed around three governing principles: low build and operation cost, longest range at speed, and operation across diverse sea states.” This is precisely where hydrofoils come in as they’re built for this multifunctionally. “They can carry big cargo and remain stable and have a much longer range than a general hull can have, and that’s really our ethos,” Sampriti notes. “We’re in an era of asymmetric warfare where a $1,000 drone can take down a billion dollar carrier craft,” something that is neither sustainable nor economically efficient. “You have to build things that can scale,” Sampriti continues, “to build vessels that are adaptable.”&nbsp;The goal for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Navier (Company)">Navier</a> is to be a dual-use company: to have a vessel that can be used for defence and civilian purposes. Just like aviation, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Navier (Company)">Navier</a> vessels also fit the high-end luxury industry of superyachts, “it’s like how the flight control system that is on US Navy vessels is the same flight control system we have in our recreational aircrafts.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/383552/image/large-55de5dbef6f489e6c364a79356321084.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/383552">Altering the use of waterwaysFor centuries, and still in places like Venice and Amsterdam, people travel on the water. Overtime, roadways and railways didn’t just become more efficient, but boats became inefficient. “If you can solve the cost and comfort problem of small boats, then suddenly every Marina can be a transportation hub,” Sampriti continues, “you’re doing the same thing that trains and airways are doing, and starting an entirely scalable transportation network between every Marina. It’s a standardised network.”&nbsp;It’s these kinds of changes that motivates Sampriti to get up in the morning: to connect the world and everyday people, allowing them to travel from place to place at incredible speed. “Take a place like San Francisco: if you go from Martinez, it’s over two hours by land, due to traffic, but 45 minutes by water.” By introducing vessels like Sampriti’s, people can come to work in San Francisco, while living further out without losing too much time or money on a commute. “It creates more affordable housing, growth in infrastructure, and an accessibility to life.”The technology, however, is expensive. “We’re very fortunate,” Sampriti notes, “because there’s early champions like doctors who see the big vision.” The maritime industry is a very conservative one, making it essential to have people who understand the vision. “We get them to the boat show and introduce them to adventurers, explorers and pioneers that are willing to try this high-tech thing out. Owners of superyachts are precisely those kinds of people.” An industry filled with entrepreneurs and creatives, they become cheerleaders of innovation for businesses and ideas the likes of Sampriti’s.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/383517/image/large-bec9c81cb41170abd517704808fb1bcb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/383517">Superyacht owners weren’t the clientele in mind when designing the best possible vessel, however, Sampriti has intentionally produced a limited number of recreational vessels. The idea is to build a community of explorers and mavericks at heart, who are pioneering a new era of sea adventure. “When you see people you aspire to be like, and those people are using these hydrofoil electric boats, it influences their audience and changes the way people look at maritime transportation, but also benefits the planet.Sampriti calls herself “very much of an optimist. I think in the long run, if you build a product that is helpful and useful for the world and it functions better than what already exists, I like to believe merit will win.” Sampriti knows that her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Navier (Company)">Navier</a> vessels will create an irreversible change in the maritime industry, “it might be slow at the start, but you push through.” It is precisely this optimism, tied with Sampriti’s vast experience in maritime technology and her care for the ocean that will help her continue to break maritime boundaries, one electric hydrofoil at a time.

Navier redefining boundaries of maritime transportation

The woman who is singlehandedly changing the maritime industry: Sampriti Bhattacharyya, the foundere and CEO of Navier

Sampriti and Navier: Redefining the boundaries of maritime transportation

A lifelong spearfisher, a captain and recently a broker, one can truly say that Cameron Kirkconnell is a man of the sea. Growing up in the Cayman Islands, traversing the globe, setting numerous spearfishing world records, and selling superyachts, the common denominator in all Cameron does is his profound sense of care, whether for clients, guests or colleagues.&nbsp;SuperYacht Times Features Editor Leona Caanen sits down with Cameron to chat about his journey from spearfisher to captain to superyacht broker.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381245/image/large-b8435d19156ab8568d831fc861c03d0c.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381245">Captain, spearfisher, nomadCameron’s ties to the sea span back generations, to when his forefathers were shipwrecked off of Cuba six or seven generations ago. “They were found by a group of people from the Cayman Islands,” Cameron shares, “since then, our family has been there for about five generations.” Coming from a long line of captains, “we’re bred from the sea,” Cameron shares, “growing up, our entire lives were centred around going to the water, whether to dive or fish or go surfing.” Even when playing college league football and competitive water polo, Cameron always preferred to be in the water; whether hunting or fishing with his dad and cousins.&nbsp;After high school, Cameron attended and graduated from the Merchant Marine Academy, one of the best maritime schools there is. He left the academy with certification to work as a third officer with unlimited tonnage on any kind of ship. From there, Cameron followed in his ancestor’s footsteps, working his way up to captain, while traversing the globe onboard commercial vessels. &nbsp;Just like the superyacht industry, being onboard a commercial vessel means working on rotation. Saving up as much money as he could, Cameron would spend his time off travelling to remote corners across the world, finding places to go diving and fishing. “Until I met my wife, about 15 years ago, I had never paid rent. I never had a permanent place to stay.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381275/image/large-fcd8ed1b2fa264bc4bb6527665b6b9c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381275">Having grown up fishing, spearfishing, and diving, Cameron went looking for other places to explore the ocean. “I fell in love with travelling. For eight or ten years, I went all over, from the South Pacific, Indian Ocean, East Coast of Africa, all through the Caribbean, and Central America.”No matter where he travelled in his time off, Cameron always aimed to give his all and strike gold when fishing: “I’m going to the best place at the right time, on the right moon, on the right tide, and I’m going to get the best fish that there is. Period.” With more than 19 world records to his name and another 30 or so achieved for and with others, the results underscore his efforts, yet he still remembers the one that started it all: “The first really significant world record I got was in Bali, Indonesia, catching a dog tooth tuna.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381247/image/large-9fdee404f4859a57081005654ec1f01f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381247">Like father, like sonCameron is a family man at heart. Upon retiring from his solo global adventures, Cameron got married and started his family, although he did anything but settle down. Instead, he shares his passion for the sea with his kids, the oldest of which is already accompanying him on trips. “My son and I went up to the northern part of Norway and did a week of spearfishing together to try and get the world record for halibut,” Cameron shares. A record he, of course, achieved, yet the pride wasn’t in adding another record to his name, but rather in sharing it with his son.It was Cameron’s father that got him into spearfishing, with some of his earliest and best memories growing up in the Cayman Islands being with his father. “I was so small and I couldn’t swim, so he’d have his arm out and I’d be holding on, he’d be towing me around.” Already back then Cameron could spot fish better than anyone else; people would praise his skills, give a pat on the back: “I find I could, and can, just pick out minute details, spot something different and significant, only now to be overshadowed by my son,” Cameron shares, adding with a hint of pride: “he’s eleven,”“I bring my son on a lot of trips, he’s very good on the boat,” Cameron remarks, emphasising that his son isn’t just great at spotting fish and spearfishing, but also at spotting boats. “He’s a savage critic on boats… he’ll tell you straight up.” A character trait that Cameron is proud to see, “we’ve always pushed transparency in our kids, whether in business or in people, life is too short.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381248/image/large-4cf86a16eaa71752830ca731bb2a57d3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381248">Spearfisher turned brokerCameron himself also strives to be transparent, within his family life, in spearfishing and in business. While having spent most of his life in the water and plenty of time on boats, Cameron had never quite intended to become a superyacht broker, but like most things in his life, when the opportunity arose, he jumped right in, giving it his all.In sharing spearfishing with others, Cameron eventually landed in the world of superyachts. The first five or so years, he was managing everything by himself, but when the opportunity arose to join AJ Blackmon at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5554" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ikonic Yachts (Company)">Ikonic Yachts</a>, the choice was easy. “I needed the help; I needed the background, the back office, and the know-how of the yachts.” Yet it wasn’t just the professional timing that made the match; “AJ has this insane level of transparency and expertise; it’s unbelievable what he has put together and he is very humble.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381274/image/large-4eee43810e64eb39a7b11536ba71c90e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381274">Upon joining the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5554" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ikonic Yachts (Company)">Ikonic</a> team, Cameron notes how AJ has put together a great team, one that feels like a family office with no BS. “Putting together him and I and Matt and Ben and Hannah; it’s such a good set up,” Cameron enthuses, “not just for me but for my clients because everyone in the team is at the absolute pinnacle of their business. It’s the best of the best.”&nbsp;One of the most memorable yachts that Cameron has gotten to work with has been <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6344" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Beast 39.2m (128'7&quot;)Profab Central Engineering Ltd2019">The Beast</a>, belonging to Sir Michael Hill. On a search for the ideal vessel to take Cameron and his team on remote spearfishing excursions, they ran into the 39-metre superyacht. “When we found the beast, we were like, where has this thing been? When going remote, you don’t just need a nice boat, you need all the functionalities required for such a mission,” says Cameron.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/217319/image/large-389761c0d05f0528314f5aab63e4b23a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/217319">The vessel made a deep impression on Cameron, “I messaged him, saying ‘Hey Sir Michael, if you ever sell this thing let me know.” It’s a sentiment shared not only by Cameron, “every client that’s come on there has said the same thing.” Only a year and a half old at the time, Cameron today still seems impressed by the yacht: “he did such a good job building this boat. She’s easy to maintain, she can change her engines out herself, guests can stay in luxury spaces, it’s just an incredible set up.”Unfortunately, Sir Michael Hill passed away earlier this year, “he wouldn’t sell it to me but we kept in touch over the years. In the end, he was able to use <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6344" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Beast 39.2m (128'7&quot;)Profab Central Engineering Ltd2019">The Beast</a> until his last days, spending time with his family onboard; it was wonderful for him… it’s something that we all dream of,” shares Cameron. After knowing each other for nearly seven years, Sir Michael has entrusted Cameron with the sale of the yacht, “he appreciates that the mission is going to go onwards.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381273/image/large-266341e6aba18b31b888b1f653dca2dd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381273">Although Cameron can’t quite disclose what exciting adventures <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6344" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Beast 39.2m (128'7&quot;)Profab Central Engineering Ltd2019">The Beast</a> will embark on next, the yacht has generated so much interest, with three full-price offers within the first week, that Cameron and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5554" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ikonic Yachts (Company)">Ikonic Yachts</a> have started to design more yachts in a similar size, as well as bigger. “It’s a niche that needs to be filled, the desire for a true expedition boat. Not the buzzword that’s been going around but a truly self-sustaining vessel; a boat that can do some really cool stuff.”Most of the yachts that Cameron sells don’t reach the market. “The guys that want to go to these remote places, or kite surf or spearfish, they don’t want to see other boats, nor do they want other boats to have been there. They want to be able to visit unique and remote tolls. When these yachts become available, they snatch them up pretty quick.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/99335/image/large-12f139a8fd50016263364bfee4501ec7.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/99335">Transparency, care and dedicationWhat is most remarkable about Cameron and the way he goes about his work, whether spearfishing expeditions or selling superyachts. Staying true to his values, Cameron’s success stems from his transparency as well as his genuine care for his clients and the yachts.“I don't force any sale: It needs to be the right boat at the right time, and sometimes it's not the right time. I’ll tell them to wait for the right time and I think that transparency has done me very well. I'm probably too emotional about it just because I truly care about my clients and I care about the boats,” shares Cameron. “If they call and there’s a line wrong in the paperwork, it affects me, it hurts my heart because I want everyone to be happy.”While Cameron knows he is possibly too emotionally invested in every sale, it is precisely his attention to his clients, the vessel and detail that makes him so good at what he does. “People know I actually care,” Cameron adds.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381249/image/large-c781199ba8a652c915d45588514834b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381249">In an industry as extravagant and luxurious as superyachts, it is refreshing to find someone so passionate about his work; not from a financial perspective, but from a love of giving people the best possible experience, whether in spearfishing a world record or purchasing a superyacht. When you work with Cameron, you know you’re working with someone who has a lifetime of experience accompanied by a profound care for all he does.

Cameron Kirkconnell: From spearfisher to superyacht broker 

A lifelong spearfisher turned captain turned superyacht broker: this is Cameron Kirkconnell

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Masters of versatility: At the shipyard with Pendennis 

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

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

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

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

When you think of European luxury yachting, Poland probably isn't the first country that comes to mind. But following a five day trip between shipyards, sailmakers and engineering labs across the Tricity region, it’s clear to me that perception is overdue for a shift. Once known primarily for its commercial shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing, the country is now steadily gaining ground as a serious player in the luxury and leisure yacht sectors.&nbsp;Hosted by the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH), I travelled from the historic port of Gdańsk to the industrial heart of Ostróda and the bustling docks of Gdynia to get a behind-the-scenes look at a country quietly positioning itself in the global yacht market.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366862/image/large-5c008d5991b28db4b21aec5d72f19d8d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366862">A legacy built on heritageMy journey through Poland’s yachting industry began in Gdańsk, a city where shipbuilding is stitched into the very fabric of its identity. Once the largest port in the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, Gdańsk thrived on trade routes that brought grain and timber down the Vistula River. At the centre of this historic trade route stands the Gdańsk Crane, first mentioned in 1367, which once hoisted masts onto ships and unloaded barrels of cargo. Today, it remains a symbol of the city’s longstanding maritime significance.Just a short walk from the crane, moored in the Motława River, is the SS Sołdek, the first seagoing ship built in Poland after World War II. Now part of the National Maritime Museum, this steel-hulled coal and ore freighter marks the rebirth of Polish shipbuilding during the country’s post-war industrial recovery. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366859/image/large-6529753995d289ab9373a345bdc69d1b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366859">But Gdańsk's legacy isn’t built on engineering alone. In the 1980s, the Gdańsk Shipyard became the cradle of the Solidarity movement, a peaceful uprising sparked by shipyard workers demanding fair wages and basic rights. Led by electrician-turned-activist Lech Wałęsa, Solidarity grew from a local strike into a national movement that would shake the foundations of the Eastern Bloc. The cost was high, lives were lost and many protesters faced imprisonment. But its impact was profound, setting off a chain of events that helped bring down communist regimes across Central and Eastern Europe and contributing to the fall of the Berlin Wall.Today, the spirit of Solidarity still lingers on the waterfront, with many of the same buildings that once launched freighters and naval vessels, now home to superyacht builders, catamaran innovators and composite specialists. Proof that Polish shipbuilding, like its history, is built to endure and adapt.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366864/image/large-5d2f8bd5103525e9cd578a1aaee7c0a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366864">The shipyards of todayAt <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2229" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Conrad Yachts (Company)">Conrad Shipyard</a> that transformation is already well underway. With its roots in commercial construction and a location at the heart of the Gdańsk waterfront, the yard has established itself as a builder of bespoke superyachts. Its attention to detail and capacity for custom builds make it a standout performer in Poland.“We see <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2229" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Conrad Yachts (Company)">Conrad</a> as a boutique shipyard,” explained Chairman and CEO Mikołaj Król. "We’re not just about volume, we’re about relationships. Every project is highly personalised and our aim is always to deliver the highest quality yacht we possibly can.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/278836/image/large-88348ea6a1463341d01e4e0f1900a592.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/278836">The shipyard was established in 2003 by Marine Projects as a division for superyachts, with the first yacht produced under this division, the 26.82-metre Escape S (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8855" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Driven26.82m (87'12&quot;)Conrad Yachts2005">Driven</a>), delivered in 2005. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2229" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Conrad Yachts (Company)">Conrad</a> currently has two superyachts in-build at the shipyard, consisting of the third 44.27-metre Conrad C144S motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miss Leen44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2025">Project Moonlight</a> and the 41.8-metre Conrad <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12403" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Coone 14041.8m (137'2&quot;)Conrad Yachts2027">C-140</a> sailing yacht, with delivery dates of 2025 and 2027 respectively.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366863/image/large-ba8bec1e3f682c01b6f760b68549b6b6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366863">Following the launch of the first hull, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9149" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ACE44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2023">ACE</a> in 2022, the award-winning C144S model really put <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2229" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Conrad Yachts (Company)">Conrad</a> on the map. Establishing them as a key player in the industry, it has allowed them to develop their facilities further, with two sheds accommodating yachts of up to 60 metres each.&nbsp;“Sometimes, dreams really do come true. Twenty years ago, we were looking up at the stars, wondering if we could ever match some of the other established names in the industry. Now, we’re building 42-metre sailing yachts. That really says something!” added Król.Watch: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/60576" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Video: Conrad Shipyard - The Polish yard that is shaking up the industry (2024-05-28 15:00:00 +0200)">Conrad Shipyard - The Polish yard that is shaking up the industry</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366857/image/large-7ea23387c38fa895bef2f0f429e8f981.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366857">Meanwhile, in the nearby Przeróbka district, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef Yachts</a> is redefining the multihull market. Known for its large, luxury catamarans, the yard is expanding both physically and creatively. Its in-house research into solar integration and eco-conscious propulsion is pushing boundaries, while its in-demand portfolio is helping to put Poland firmly on the global yachting map.“In the beginning, customers weren’t convinced that Poland could produce luxury goods and that included Polish customers too,” explained CEO Francis Lapp. “We had to change that perception through results.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366865/image/large-d9b63cbd5915a2a18a043d77990f44da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366865"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef Yachts</a> currently has several yachts in-build at its facility in Gdansk, with an extensive tour around the yard revealing a diverse and dynamic production line that includes sailing and power catamarans ranging from 24 to 42 metres. Among the highlights were multiple units of the new Ultima 88 series, with the first due to launch in late 2025, as well as several 30 metre sail and power models in various stages of construction.“Gaining trust doesn’t happen overnight. You need to prove yourself by building ten, twenty, even a hundred yachts before people really believe in what you do. But over time, people saw that even though we were building in Poland, the quality was there,” added Lapp.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366866/image/large-e065fabba23dfb9d15f70c3455a5ef6a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366866">Over the past two decades, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a>’s trajectory has done more than shape a brand, it has helped shift international perceptions of Polish shipbuilding itself. By exporting high-end catamarans to owners around the world, Lapp has positioned Poland not only as a competitive manufacturing base, but as a country capable of delivering innovation, craftsmanship and luxury.As Artur Połoczański, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a>’s Public Relations Director reflected, “Francis didn’t just build yachts, he helped promote the entire country.”Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/63207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Charting a bold course: How Sunreef Yachts is shaping the future of luxury multihulls (2025-05-20 11:15:00 +0200)">Charting a bold course: How Sunreef Yachts is shaping the future of luxury multihulls</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367496/image/large-520650af0fa844ee8385b500cae8ebfe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367496">Elsewhere in Gdańsk, I visited one of Poland’s most established sailmakers, Sail Service, to see firsthand how sails are designed, cut and assembled. Founded in 1987, the company continues the traditions of the J. Conrad sail-loft and supplies sails to tall ships, expedition yachts and racing craft in over 20 countries.Sail Service also specialises in protective covers and is the exclusive Polish distributor of brands such as Ronstan, Andersen and Flexiteek. Their blend of traditional craftsmanship and high-tech production makes them a trusted partner to individual clients, charter fleets and series yacht builders alike, further reinforcing Poland’s reputation for quality marine manufacturing.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367495/image/large-85e7cbfd68e5c3757184cfffeba10274.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367495">“We’re proud to be part of a tradition that proves Poland can deliver both precision and performance, not just in sails, but across the entire yachting supply chain,” concluded Paweł Roslen, Manager of Sales.The following day began with an early drive through the Polish countryside to Ostróda to Model-Art, where I toured their expansive production halls and witnessed several projects in various stages of construction. Founded in 1998, Model-Art has grown into one of Poland’s most advanced composite boat builders, operating across three production sites.&nbsp;The company builds leisure motor boats ranging from six to over 12 metres in length, serving major international clients such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5844" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nimbus (Company)">Nimbus</a>, Parker, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Windy Boats (Company)">Windy</a>, Askeladden and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5873" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Antonio Yachts (Company)">De Antonio Yachts</a>. Boats from the Ostróda facility have been recognised at major shows including the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4556" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival (Company)">Cannes Yachting Festival</a>, boot Düsseldorf and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.Model-Art also maintains close ties with the Gdańsk University of Technology and a local high school in Ostróda, supporting education through hands-on training, internships and collaboration on real-world projects. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367514/image/large-25684ff68698c9f1de8a6c82fb162824.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367514">Education is key for expansionIf Poland is to continue its trajectory in the yachting sector, it will be thanks to the pipeline of talent emerging from its technical schools and universities, a fact recognised across every yard we visited. Institutions like the Gdańsk University of Technology, whose Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Ship Technology is producing the next generation of naval architects, marine engineers and composite specialists; are a central pillar in Poland's ability to deliver high-spec projects and support innovation in design and production.The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Ship Technology is equipped with advanced labs for materials testing, CAD/CAM simulation and hydrodynamic research. Students and researchers benefit from access to full-scale prototyping tools, workshops and partnerships with shipyards, giving them practical experience that directly translates to industry impact.The technical training and close links between academia and industry have helped Polish builders remain competitive internationally, offering an appealing balance of cost, quality and engineering credibility.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367522/image/large-93f2d3c6d51a9644cae5d15a8dec1c01.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367522">POLBOAT Yachting Festival But technical capability is only part of the picture. Industry visibility both domestically and abroad is crucial to Poland’s continued emergence as a force in yacht building. That’s where the POLBOAT Yachting Festival comes in.Now in its sixth year, the festival has grown into the country’s most prominent in-water yacht show, held annually at Marina Yacht Park in Gdynia. This year’s edition showcased over 120 vessels, surpassing last year’s record and included 25 national and international premieres.During the opening ceremony, industry leaders, local officials and international guests gathered in solidarity, reflecting on both the challenges and the resilience of Poland’s marine sector. “Thank you for being here, even though these are difficult times,” said the event’s organiser in his welcome address. “I saw all of you arriving and I felt that we will get through these challenges because we’re together. That’s our strength, that’s the strength of the Polish yachting industry.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367521/image/large-0a8e83a731c6a772e1a11d46e14e39d3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367521">Among the many Polish brands exhibiting at the festival, Parker Poland and N’Fun Yachting offered us the chance to get out on the water and experience their models firsthand. During sea trials along the Gdynia waterfront, both companies demonstrated the strengths of their build quality and design philosophy. Parker showcased their robust, family-friendly powerboats and N’Fun offered a nimble sailing experience onboard their sporty, N Fun 30 yacht.But it was Gdynia’s mayor, Aleksandra Kosiorek, that summed up the festival perfectly, “This event is not only a celebration of technology, it is also a celebration of innovation, inspiration and connection. We’re proud that Gdynia can host this showcase of Polish talent and craftsmanship.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366860/image/large-a6966772b2a18b184f1ad5341a115888.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366860">The future of Polish yacht buildingFrom world-class catamarans built in Gdańsk to recreational motor boats in Ostróda, Poland is home to a quiet ecosystem of highly skilled shipyards, engineers and craftsmen who are increasingly stepping onto the international stage. With strong educational institutions like the Gdańsk University of Technology fuelling a skilled workforce, and shipyards such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2229" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Conrad Yachts (Company)">Conrad</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> delivering high-specification builds to global clients; Poland is assembling the key ingredients for long-term relevance in European yacht building.&nbsp;The transition from industrial production to high-end yacht construction is not simply a business pivot, it is a cultural and generational evolution rooted in strength, purpose and pride. As one executive put it during the tour, "Poland doesn’t need to reinvent itself, it just needs to be seen." In that respect, Poland may not only be on the rise, it may already be poles ahead.

Poland: The rise of the country as a yachting powerhouse

Sophie Spicknell explores how Poland is becoming a powerhouse in the world of yachting, through its rich maritime history. 

Made in Poland: The country quietly positioning itself as a yachting powerhouse

“I constantly evaluated our production standards in Croatia and have recognised opportunities for real improvement. There's a common perception that Italian and German craftsmanship are the benchmarks, so we're motivated by the question: how can we elevate our standards and excel beyond expectations here in Croatia?” remarked Antonio Ivanisevic, co-founder and CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a>, during a meeting at this year’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336087/image/large-ee474d3df29dc74a3870a4c760d78a38.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336087">Based in the vibrant Port of Krilo in Jesenice, Croatia, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a> has carved out a niche in building large sailing yachts. Since its inception, the shipyard has launched three sailing superyachts: the 48.24-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12541" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Clase Azul48.24m (158'3&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2022">Clase Azul</a> in 2022, the 52.3-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12688" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scorpios52.3m (171'7&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2023">Scorpios</a> in 2023, and the 53-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13240" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reposado53.0m (173'11&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2024">Reposado</a> this year. <a href="http://superyachttimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Superyacht Times</a> Features Writer Enrico Chhibber met with Ivanisevic to discuss the origins of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a>, the trends in the Croatian yachting market, and the company's future plans.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/249302/image/large-2995788e3ec8e52199abb970538690d1.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/249302">Deep Croatian roots&nbsp;On the origins of the name <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana</a>, Ivanisevic elucidated that it is a blend of Slavic and Italian, reflecting the family's heritage and symbolising a wind that comes from the mountains. He added, “Krilio is renowned for its very pleasant winds.”Delving into his background, Ivanisevic shared that he was born in Melbourne, Australia, as his family sought refuge from the war in Croatia in 1991. His mother is Italian and his father Croatian. “We moved back when I was young, in the early 2000s, and I grew up in Krilo, a small coastal town on the Dalmatian coast,” he remarked. From a young age, Ivanisevic felt a profound connection to the sea and his Croatian heritage, noting his family's 13-generation lineage from the Split region on his father’s side. “Having worked as a barman on boats and later as a cruise manager, I’ve always been passionate about the sea and serving people,” he explained.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336088/image/large-f86ca04024d9b798a74c86f0023f7d15.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336088">The founding of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yacht</a>sWhen asked about his inspirations for founding <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a>, Ivanisevic cited a significant historical figure in his family. “One of my biggest inspirations was my father’s great-uncle, Don Frane, a senator and a priest three generations ago,” he explained. Don Frane was deeply involved in the export-import business, trading wine and oil with Italy using boats that were simply equipped, with just a captain’s cabin. Ivanisevic continued, “He was a visionary, investing heavily in people’s education – a rarity at the time – &nbsp;and developing financial institutions like a treasury bank, to promote regional development.” Don Frane also contributed to the infrastructure of their hometown, developing the port area in Krilo, which is now being transformed into a marina by the Croatian government.Today, the port in Kirilo is home to around 60 houses and accommodates approximately 300 boats, including many large yachts. He noted, however, that many of these 'yachts' are actually mini-cruise ships and day boats, built in Croatia and owned by Croatians. Discussing the motivation behind founding <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana</a>, Ivanisevic explained it stemmed from the contradiction he saw between subpar finishing on Croatian day boats, and the international acclaim for Croatian craftsmanship. “We often hear from other shipyards, especially in the Netherlands, that Croatian welders are among the best,” Ivanisevic commented. “This led me to question, why can’t we do it ourselves, and do it better right here in Croatia?"<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/336089/image/large-04fd569dfe074819ac77a967ed4b52fd.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/336089">Building the businessIvanisevic elaborated on his entry into the yacht chartering business, managing bookings personally and encountering numerous remarkable individuals along the way. “These experiences have highlighted the significant, yet often underestimated, role of tourism in our country. We are, in essence, ambassadors of our nation. So why should we settle for mediocrity when we can strive for excellence?” he reflected. Admittedly, he acknowledged, creating a yacht brand was an ambitious venture, but a vision he passionately pursued.As Ivanisevic progressed to the next step of securing financing, he shared his unique approach with potential investors. Insisting on a personal connection before finalising any deals, he even arranged for the investors to meet his family, an introduction that culminated in a barbecue at his mother’s house. After successfully securing the funding, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana</a> acquired a yacht hull during the COVID-19 pandemic, which became <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12541" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Clase Azul48.24m (158'3&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2022">Clase Azul</a>. This initiative was soon followed by the construction and launches of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12688" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scorpios52.3m (171'7&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2023">Scorpios</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13240" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reposado53.0m (173'11&quot;)Tramontana Yachts2024">Reposado</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/307841/image/large-3f3cff2b1a812a243903373ce5b5c03b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/307841">Construction capacity<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana</a>’s construction capacity is of two new-builds per year, for projects of up to 70-metres in length, as detailed by Ivanisevic. “All processes are managed in-house, with each project initiated six months apart,” he stated. The decision to cap yacht sizes at 70-metres is strategic as “the size is the maximum our team feels comfortable managing, allowing us to maintain quality without significant risk,” he noted.Initially, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a> chose to focus exclusively on sailing yachts. Reasons for this cited by Ivanisevic &nbsp;included the fact that: “Producing sailing yachts uniquely positions our brand in the Croatian market, where we are the sole shipyard pursuing this niche.” He added that, “this strategic approach not only enhances the distinctiveness of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a> but also avoids mimicking existing designs.” The production rate set at one 50-metre vessel every 12 months was designed to make a significant impact quickly. Each yacht is crafted with comfort as a priority, primarily targeting the charter market.” This focus has yielded success, despite sailing yachts traditionally having a narrower appeal, emphasising pleasure over performance, shared the founder.In terms of clientele, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a> serves a global market, predominantly attracting customers from North America, the UK, and Europe, with a growing presence in other regions. When it comes to the design of the yachts, Ivanisevic, along with his brothers, prioritises the guest's perspective. “First, we build for the client's needs, then we construct everything else around that,” he detailed. A notable highlight is the ample space and the toy garage, designed to enhance client satisfaction. “After establishing these key elements, we ensure that everything else follows suit,” he added.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284799/image/large-6aea6d7d4a95a56298c6436d0861a805.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284799">Croatian market&nbsp;Croatia has increasingly become an attractive destination for yacht charters. Ivanisevic attributes this to several factors: Croatia's progress, its recent entry into the Schengen Area, the growing recognition of the country's beauty, its reputation as a safe destination, and the development of more marina infrastructure.Croatia has traditionally not been associated with new-build superyachts. However, Ivanisevic believes it can position itself as an appealing new player in the market. He explained, “While Dutch and German craftsmanship are renowned for their high quality, they come at a high cost. Turkish construction costs are also on the rise, and Italy, despite being a major yacht building hub, has also seen an increase in prices. In contrast, costs in Croatia are generally lower than in Italy and Turkey, making it an increasingly attractive option for potential buyers.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/318724/image/large-3d3f1624fac652f547408a80edf788e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/318724"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/318760/image/large-ce9ef116c84748f7b71511d23f09acde.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/318760">Future plans and developmentsIvanisevic shared insights into the ambitious future plans for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana Yachts</a>. He revealed that the company is in the process of acquiring a significantly larger yard to expand their facilities. “Our focus will shift more towards new-builds, including series-built sailing yachts and motor yachts. We are also exploring the potential of opening a refit division,” he stated. The decision to expand into motor yachts is driven by increasing brand awareness and demand. Ivanisevic is confident about the brand's association with Croatia, emphasising, “When people think of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7351" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tramontana Yachts (Company)">Tramontana</a>, they think of quality, safety, and the best of Croatia. We aim to represent our country in the finest way possible.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/318736/image/large-865bf4ae03f206b90245d9730bc64bc1.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/318736">

Antonio Ivanisevic on founding Tramontana Yachts

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

Pleasant winds: Antonio Ivanisevic on founding Tramontana Yachts

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

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

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

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

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

Harrison Eidsgaard yacht designers

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

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

The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has increased the transit surcharge applied to yachts using the canal, raising it from 14 percent to 26 percent of normal transit dues.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291466/image/large-ee3cbb034446ab3174540d0191674f33.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291466">The revised surcharge came into effect on 15 July 2026 under SCA Periodical 25/2026 and applies to yachts transiting the canal in both northbound and southbound directions. The increase affects vessels classified by the Authority as "special floating units", a category that includes yachts and pleasure craft.While the surcharge has increased, the SCA's underlying transit tariff for yachts remains unchanged, having last been revised in 2024. The total cost of a transit will continue to depend on a yacht's tonnage, meaning the financial impact will vary between vessels.Read more:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/65528" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="How Gulf tensions are affecting superyacht operations (2026-03-05 13:00:00 +0100)">How Gulf tensions are affecting superyacht operations</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400483/image/large-89587478c15bc83b3f2cd3398218b6b3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400483">The Suez Canal is one of the world's most important shipping routes and remains a key passage for superyachts repositioning between the Mediterranean and destinations including the Red Sea, the Arabian Gulf, the Maldives and Southeast Asia. The latest surcharge increase adds to the operational costs associated with long-distance passages through the waterway. The SCA has described the surcharge as temporary and subject to prevailing market conditions.The revised rates come as the Suez Canal continues to operate against a backdrop of reduced commercial traffic in recent years, with many vessels opting to avoid the Red Sea because of regional security concerns.&nbsp;Although some superyachts have continued to use the route, others have chosen alternative passages depending on operational requirements and security assessments.

Suez Canal increases transit surcharge for yachts to 26%

The Suez Canal Authority SCA has increased the transit surcharge applied to yachts using the canal to 26% of normal transit dues.

Luxury has always been central to yacht design, but what defines luxury is changing. Where once the focus centred on expansive entertainment spaces and lavish amenities, today's owners are placing greater value on something less tangible: wellbeing.Across luxury residential and hospitality design, wellness has evolved from a desirable addition to a fundamental design principle. The same shift is now taking place within the superyacht industry, influencing not only the features incorporated on board, but also the way designers think about space, materials and the overall onboard experience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399619/image/large-d755755c61405dc5e544229023063dfc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399619">For yacht designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6544" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Carla Guilhem (Company)">Carla Guilhem</a>, whose career spans luxury residences, hospitality projects and yacht interiors, the change has been impossible to ignore."I began noticing the shift several years ago as clients started prioritising quality of life over traditional luxury," she explains. "Conversations moved beyond aesthetics and entertainment spaces towards how environments could support health, recovery, longevity and emotional wellbeing."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399618/image/large-9718d69e0a17b306b32cc2ec33d01cc7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399618">A new definition of luxuryToday's yacht owners are increasingly health-conscious and intentional about how they spend their time. Many lead demanding professional lives, travelling frequently and balancing high-pressure careers, making their yacht one of the few places where they can truly disconnect."They view their yacht as a place to recover and reconnect with family," says Carla. "They expect environments that support better sleep, reduced stress, cleaner air and a stronger connection to nature. Wellness is no longer considered a luxury – it is becoming an expectation."That evolution represents a broader shift in the purpose of a yacht. Rather than serving primarily as a platform for entertaining, owners are increasingly seeking spaces that encourage privacy, reflection and meaningful time with loved ones."A decade ago, many yachts were primarily focused on entertaining," Carla notes. "Today, owners are increasingly seeking privacy, recovery, meaningful family experiences and opportunities to disconnect from constant demands."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399620/image/large-99397646557b8672b3fc877434607f6c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399620">Lessons from residential designCarla believes her background in residential interiors has been instrumental in shaping her approach to yacht design. While the technical constraints differ, the underlying objective remains the same: creating spaces that enhance everyday life."Residential design taught me that the most successful spaces are the ones that positively influence daily life," she explains. "The goal is not simply to create beautiful spaces, but spaces that genuinely improve how people live and feel."That philosophy is increasingly reflected in yacht interiors, where many of the design principles first established in luxury homes are finding a place on board. Comfort has become as important as craftsmanship, with natural materials, layered textures, softer forms and flexible family spaces replacing more formal, highly decorative interiors.Owners, Carla believes, no longer want a yacht that resembles a luxury hotel. Instead, they are looking for spaces that capture the comfort and familiarity of home while still delivering an exceptional level of refinement.Her experience across residential, hospitality and marine projects also provides an insight into broader lifestyle trends before they become firmly established within the yacht sector."Wellness, longevity, remote work, multigenerational living and experiential luxury all appeared in residential projects before becoming central topics in yacht design discussions," she says.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399621/image/large-a481cddb12b2f269b900cafcae986470.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399621">Wellness beyond the spaAlthough wellness is often associated with onboard spas, gyms and treatment rooms, Carla believes those features represent only a small part of the conversation."For me, wellness is about creating an environment that supports both physical and emotional wellbeing," she says. "It includes light, acoustics, air quality, materials, ergonomics, privacy and connection to nature."Many of these elements are subtle, but together they shape the way people experience a space. Natural daylight, carefully considered acoustics and materials that create warmth and tactility all contribute to an environment that encourages relaxation without drawing attention to themselves."The most important wellness elements are often invisible," Carla explains. "A space that reduces stress, improves sleep, encourages relaxation and creates a sense of balance can be just as impactful as a spa or fitness centre."Applying these principles aboard a yacht inevitably presents additional challenges, but she believes the design intent should remain consistent. "We carefully consider natural light, circadian rhythms, material selection, airflow, acoustics and visual connection to the sea," she says. "Every design decision should contribute to a sense of comfort and harmony."Technology also has an increasingly important role to play, although Carla argues that its success lies in remaining largely unnoticed. "The most successful innovations are often the least visible. Technology should work quietly in the background, supporting comfort, health and personalisation while allowing the design itself to remain warm, tactile and emotionally engaging."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389934/image/large-7e682c4652bc70a30330635657eaedbc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389934">Designing around wellbeingThese ideas ultimately became the foundation for Project WOW, a concept that challenges conventional thinking by placing wellbeing at the centre of every design decision rather than treating it as an additional feature.The project emerged from conversations about the future of luxury and changing owner expectations. Instead of asking which wellness amenities should be incorporated into a yacht, Carla and her team began with a more fundamental question: what would happen if wellbeing became the starting point for the entire design process?<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389939/image/large-547bc95ee64178f331ae3c095a2caac4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389939">The answer extends beyond dedicated wellness facilities to encompass every aspect of the interior, from proportion and lighting to colour, texture and spatial flow. Each element has the potential to influence how people think, feel and behave while on board, creating environments that support emotional comfort as much as physical health.Looking ahead, Carla believes wellness will follow a similar trajectory to sustainability, becoming an expected element of every new project rather than a specialist consideration."The future of luxury is not simply about what a yacht offers," she concludes. "It is about how it makes people feel."As client expectations continue to evolve, it is this breadth of experience across residential, hospitality and yacht design that places Carla in an ideal position to respond to a new era of luxury – one in which wellbeing is becoming as fundamental as craftsmanship, comfort and performance.

Carla Guilhem on yacht wellness

Designer Carla Guilhem on the evolution of wellness in yacht design.

How is wellness reshaping superyacht design?

From 23 to 26 September this year, some of the most technologically advanced superyachts ever built will descend on Port Hercule, Monaco, for the 35th edition of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/338" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2026">Monaco Yacht Show</a>.&nbsp;SuperYacht Times&nbsp;presents a curated list of the largest vessels set to make their appearance at the annual celebration.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/398278/image/large-493be7d11a5178c45c874d9d7ece036a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/398278"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11563" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nixie102.4m (335'11&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2026">Nixie</a>&nbsp;| 102.4-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2026 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12032" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pangea79.8m (261'10&quot;)Amels2025"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396027/image/large-06b5daba793d408faf7914e598d24e60.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396027">Pangea</a>&nbsp;| 79.8-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2025 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395308/image/large-610ddca98daa5b7f98b8d1267733e13e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395308"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11076" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Malia77.7m (254'11&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2023">Malia</a>&nbsp;| 77.7-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/778" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Golden Yachts Ltd. (Company)">Golden Yachts</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2023 |&nbsp;Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387970/image/large-ff7500622e0c1f3728a319cfed7b380c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387970"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11645" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amor à Vida67.55m (221'7&quot;)CRN2025">Amor à Vida</a>&nbsp;| 67.55-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2025 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/282356/image/large-2467d0883105f8699f6050d7ecee64da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/282356"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/448" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Loon67.5m (221'5&quot;)ICON Yachts2009">Loon</a>&nbsp;| 67.5-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/429" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ICON Yachts (Company)">ICON</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2009 |&nbsp;Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merle Wood & Associates, Inc. (Company)">Merle Wood &amp; Associates</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392856/image/large-0ea90e17746d7e1a5c8635173d9b77ef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392856"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Raider X67.0m (219'10&quot;)ISA Yachts2026">Sea Raider X</a>&nbsp;| 67-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA Yachts</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2026 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1757" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo Superyachts (Company)">Palumbo Superyachts</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/384008/image/large-ecf973e0ae7bacc23519248bebe2fac2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/384008"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5725" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alchemist 62.0m (203'5&quot;)Sanlorenzo2022">Alchemist</a>&nbsp;| 62-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2022 |&nbsp;Exhibited by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2989" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cecil Wright (Company)">Cecil Wright &amp; Partners</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390345/image/large-d846c844f5689c21e3c2b9be84792c73.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390345"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12790" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Simena62.0m (203'5&quot;)ARES Yachts2026">Simena</a>&nbsp;| 62-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2013" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ARES Yachts (Company)">ARES Yachts</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2025 | Delivered in 2026 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2013" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ARES Yachts (Company)">ARES Yachts</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243402/image/large-121796a134b262761a5372c8b06895a3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243402"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12406" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kinda II60.0m (196'10&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2026">Kinda II</a>&nbsp;| 60-metres | <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a> | Launched in 2026 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/398143/image/large-ab9a5b687c31e4c8921f017929f22615.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/398143"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12430" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="QU260.0m (196'10&quot;)Amels2026">QU2</a>&nbsp;| 60-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2026 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395227/image/large-0dc2cb5185f15c684a05687e04968cad.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395227"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10946" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akula59.4m (194'11&quot;)Rossinavi2024">Akula</a>&nbsp;| 59.4-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2024 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/96241/image/large-a6085730c9583b7a4948ce8effdba4b9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/96241"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/986" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galaxy56.0m (183'9&quot;)Benetti Yachts2005">Galaxy</a>&nbsp;| 56-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti Yachts (Company)">Benetti</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2005 |&nbsp;Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7074" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Safe Harbor (Company)">Safe Harbor</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314701/image/large-28191fc86e586464bfe0b3318c9f520c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314701"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1549" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="After You55.0m (180'5&quot;)Heesen Yachts2011">After You</a>&nbsp;| 55-metres | <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> | Launched in 2011&nbsp;| Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/56233/image/large-099aba30e0db4e08f2162f50c1493aa7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/56233"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2737" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Meira55.0m (180'5&quot;)Neta Marine2018">Meira</a>&nbsp;| 55-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/883" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Neta Marine (Company)">Neta Marine</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2018 |&nbsp;Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377780/image/large-fa488910f0faa06e5dac11e2aa24f757.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377780"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8999" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reliance55.0m (180'5&quot;)Heesen Yachts2023">Reliance</a>&nbsp;| 55-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2022&nbsp;| Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393491/image/large-4b5f073994d9613974221f696aa22075.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393491"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12673" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pa'lante55.0m (180'5&quot;)Heesen Yachts2026">Pa’lante&nbsp;</a>| 55-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2025 | Delivered in 2026 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/353286/image/large-3e10feda5cb38941305b576440b205aa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/353286"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6871" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velocity 54.0m (177'2&quot;)Mangusta Yachts2020">Velocity</a>&nbsp;| 54-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mangusta Yachts (Company)">Mangusta Yachts</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2020 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8380" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Yachts (Company)">Royal Yachts International<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390375/image/large-902424b41d836aa0192379008f8086a3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390375"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12126" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gray Wolf52.5m (172'3&quot;)Mengi Yay Yachts2026">Gray Wolf</a>&nbsp;| 52.5-metres |&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mengi Yay Yachts (Company)">Mengi Yay Yachts</a>&nbsp;| Launched in 2026 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mengi Yay Yachts (Company)">Mengi Yay Yachts<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/353894/image/large-89be8d0620c9a6de7434b9e8affb7d90.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/353894"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5722" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Sins52.0m (170'7&quot;)Sanlorenzo2017">Seven Sins</a>&nbsp;| 52-metres | <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> | Launched in 2017 | Exhibited by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/343092/image/large-355fdd566f40b298be86dc1ce8bf7b48.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/343092"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a> | 51-metres | <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> | Launched in 1993 | Exhibited by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/323598/image/large-7cb050f5853005d996110bb3d4d60767.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/323598"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reverie50.28m (164'12&quot;)Feadship2000">Reverie</a> | 50.28-metres | <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> | Launched in 2000 | Exhibited by&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a>

Monaco Yacht Show 2026 Yacht List

SuperYacht Times presents a curated list of the most remarkable vessels at the Monaco Yacht Show 2026.

Yachts attending Monaco Yacht Show 2026

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a> has revealed the first images of its <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Seadeck 9/1125.6m (83'12&quot;)Azimut Yachts2026">new 26-metre Seadeck 9</a>, offering a closer look inside of the flagship that defines the next chapter for the Italian builder's Seadeck Series. The model evolves the range with a reimagined outdoor sanctuary and advanced low-emission engineering, and introduces what the shipyard describes as a new 'Pool Deck' concept.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400436/image/large-78d943f6d041071bba79bf22056c4bae.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400436">Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3025" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mancini Yacht Design (Company)">Alberto Mancini</a>, with interiors penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Matteo Thun & Antonio Rodriguez (Company)">Matteo Thun &amp; Antonio Rodriguez</a>, the Seadeck 9 evolves the series' signature Fun Island into a 180-degree Pool Deck, conceived to strengthen the connection between the yacht and the surrounding seascape.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400428/image/large-c57c9848cb2e9ecc2d8c8d8dc74cd338.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400428"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400429/image/large-a8b8be06b9c816e7dfe31fd55b56c426.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400429">Unfolding into tiered terraces, the aft section flows from the swim platform into the main saloon, creating a single living space that extends from the water's edge into the yacht's indoor spaces. Fold-down bulwarks, a flush-deck plunge pool, movable sunbeds and a convertible dining table are available for guests to adapt between waterside leisure, entertaining and dining.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400427/image/large-c24d7f536fd2de4d759e20472c7e8ae4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400427">Stepping inside, the main deck has been conceived as a natural architectural extension of the aft terraces. Floor-to-ceiling glazing and a fully disappearing glass door dissolve the boundary between her saloon and outdoor spaces, letting in plenty of natural light while keeping the ocean views unobstructed.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400439/image/large-cff986283de118430d84e2194fbd955d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400439"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Matteo Thun & Antonio Rodriguez (Company)"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400440/image/large-295d4e2947e8dfb64a209f3adf9ee22f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400440">Matteo Thun &amp; Antonio Rodriguez</a> designed the interiors with a focus on wellbeing and longevity, featuring natural materials and minimalist detailing. In terms of colour palette, owners can choose between light walnut or pale oak colour finishes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400432/image/large-038d2c6577443aa8448c33ed3c8283fa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400432">Moving into guest accommodations, the owner's suite on the lower deck is a private retreat inspired by eco-resort living. Here, spa-inspired detailing, integrated washbasins and a writing desk built into the bookcase add functionality to her calm ambience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400411/image/large-e679cbf439acb2136a8b18167d6f77f3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400411" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Accommodation is completed by a VIP stateroom and two guest staterooms, while separate crew quarters ensure privacy throughout the guest areas.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400425/image/large-d6c68d22ae4fceeee85acf8c8ae7b059.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400425">Beyond her living spaces, the Seadeck 9 hails from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut's</a> Low Emission Yacht family. Her hull, developed in partnership with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2051" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="NAMES by Francesco Rogantin (Company)">NAMES</a>, is precisely optimised for peak efficiency at various speeds. Meanwhile, extensive use of carbon fiber, which comprises roughly 40 percent of the yacht’s structure, significantly reduces overall weight.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400408/image/large-af3552b448696b2e4a7cddd585e19857.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400408">With triple <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Volvo Penta (Company)">Volvo Penta</a> IPS engines compatible with hybrid-electric technology, the Seadeck 9 has reduced fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to 30 percent over an average year of use compared to similar yachts featuring conventional shaft-line propulsion.

First look: Onboard the new 26m Azimut Seadeck 9 yacht model

Azimut has revealed the first images of its new 26-metre Seadeck 9.

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> has announced the delivery of the 40.8-metre Benetti Oasis 40M yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13362" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Sarah40.8m (133'10&quot;)Benetti Yachts2026">Lady Sarah</a>. She was sold to her owners by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> Sales Broker Jan-Jaap Minnema in 2024.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400473/image/large-0e8a10be3b9c269ab95f8cedfbb9a255.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400473">After several years of chartering yachts in the Mediterranean, a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> client has transitioned towards ownership. Jan-Jaap guided the search, arranging viewings of multiple yachts during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/210" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival - 2024">2024 Cannes Yachting Festival</a>.The decision was ultimately made at the event following discussions with Benetti Middle East Area Manager Nabil El Jammal, where the Owner identified the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti Yachts (Company)">Benetti</a> Oasis 40M as the right platform and subsequently appointed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser’s</a> Project Management team to support the build."This project perfectly demonstrates the strength of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser's</a> integrated approach. What began as a charter relationship evolved into a yacht purchase, followed by a highly personalized project and now crew support and ongoing yacht management,” explained Jan-Jaap.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13362" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Sarah40.8m (133'10&quot;)Benetti Yachts2026">Lady Sarah</a> features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti Yachts (Company)">Benetti</a> and interiors by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5263" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bonetti / Kozerski architecture DPC (Company)">Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture</a>, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6293" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leonardo Santi Design (Company)">Leonardo Santi</a> curated the interior decoration, all specifically around the owner’s lifestyle and preferences. Her design combines a carefully curated selection of bespoke materials and finishes, including natural marble in place of conventional bathroom surfaces and a distinctive bronze finish that serves as a defining element throughout the yacht. The interior is further enhanced by furnishings from Capital Collection, Minotti, Rugiano and SoftHouse, complemented by bespoke styling from Bergomi Interiors.”Our ambition was to create a yacht that felt entirely bespoke while respecting <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti Yachts (Company)">Benetti's</a> production process and delivery schedule,” commented designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6293" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leonardo Santi Design (Company)">Leonardo Santi</a>. “Through close collaboration with the Owner, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> and the shipyard, we demonstrated that thoughtful design, complete transparency and careful planning can transform a production yacht into a truly personal home on the water."The Crew Network assisted with crew recruitment, while the yacht joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser’s</a> Yacht Management fleet ahead of delivery. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13362" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Sarah40.8m (133'10&quot;)Benetti Yachts2026">Lady Sarah</a> will cruise the Mediterranean and Red Sea before becoming available for charter through <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> from the summer 2027 season following her first private Mediterranean season.“By bringing together the right people, from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti Yachts (Company)">Benetti</a> to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6293" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leonardo Santi Design (Company)">Leonardo Santi</a>, we were able to deliver a yacht that feels entirely bespoke while benefiting from the reliability and efficiency of a proven production platform," concluded Jan-Jaap.

Benetti Oasis yacht Lady Sarah delivered

Fraser has announced the delivery of the 40.8-metre Benetti Oasis 40M yacht Lady Sarah.

41m Benetti Oasis yacht Lady Sarah delivered

What began as a four-month mission to complete the interior of a 78-metre custom yacht has evolved into a major interior manufacturing operation. Founded in 2020 by long-time industry colleagues Roger Myers and Cyril Bieri,&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Interiors (Company)">Superyacht Interiors Dubai</a>&nbsp;has grown from a team of 172 craftsmen into a workforce of more than 350 specialists, delivering complex yacht interiors, bespoke furniture packages and high-end residential projects from facilities in Dubai and Oman. We spoke with Roger about the systems, facilities and strategies that underpin their approach.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400470/image/large-4ceb08833994d9b729841ee78f6e196b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400470">What has been the most significant change in the business since completing your first yacht project?The biggest transformation has been in our engineering and manufacturing capabilities. In the beginning, our focus was on assembling the right team and delivering the interior of the 78-metre yacht to the standards expected by European shipyards and designers. Since then, we have invested heavily in engineering, production systems and machinery. What started as a project-driven operation has evolved into a fully integrated manufacturing business with dedicated engineering departments, advanced CNC machining capabilities, specialised finishing facilities and robust quality control systems. Our objective has always been to combine traditional yacht craftsmanship with modern manufacturing processes while maintaining the standards expected within the superyacht sector.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400467/image/large-60153eb48725bce03601f1af50379f27.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400467">How has your production capacity evolved as the company has grown?When we launched, we had 172 employees. Today, our core workforce sits at around 350 specialists, although we have demonstrated the ability to scale significantly when projects require it. During peak production on an ongoing Northern European project, we expanded to almost 500 personnel to support areas such as finishing, veneer preparation and painting. At standard production levels, we’re able to deliver approximately 1,200-square-metres of luxury yacht interiors annually. With extended shifts and overtime, that capacity increases to around 1,500-square-metres.One of the key lessons we've learned is that capacity is not simply about workforce numbers. It’s about understanding production bottlenecks and investing in the areas that create the greatest efficiencies. Paint, veneer processing and machining all involve curing or drying periods, so extending operations through additional shifts allows us to maximise utilisation of those assets.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400468/image/large-bbfff37808bf54abf0581945a33727ca.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400468">You have recently invested significantly in engineering and digital manufacturing. What is driving that strategy?Efficiency is a major focus for us as we look towards the future. Over the past year, we have invested heavily in CAD+T engineering software alongside ERP and SAP systems that allow us to track materials and components throughout the production process. Traditionally, yacht interiors have relied heavily on 2D engineering. We’re now transitioning towards fully integrated 3D workflows. The advantage is that the engineering model automatically generates bills of materials, cut lists and manufacturing information, which can then be transferred directly to our production machinery. Alongside the software investment, we have recruited highly experienced specialists from leading European yacht interior companies to support the implementation. Our goal is for the majority of our engineering output to be delivered through these integrated digital systems over the next 12 months.What investments have you made on the manufacturing side?We’ve invested approximately €2 million in machinery and equipment, with a long-term investment plan of around €4 million over the next five years. This includes new 5-axis and 4-axis CNC machining centres, upgraded spray-line systems and additional finishing capabilities. We have also expanded our paint operations significantly, with two large spray facilities now fully operational and a third currently being introduced. These investments are already generating substantial gains in efficiency, production quality and programme reliability. At the same time, we continue to invest in people. Technology is important, but it still relies on skilled craftsmen, engineers and project managers to deliver the final result.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400471/image/large-0fb460c7fc1ccd3662c37cb698e733d6.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400471">How does the new Oman facility fit into your manufacturing strategy?Capacity was certainly one factor, but the facility is really about manufacturing optimisation. The Oman facility has been established as a dedicated machining centre and houses much of our newest CNC equipment, focusing on high-volume cutting and machining operations. By relocating these activities, we can maintain a cleaner, quieter and more controlled production environment in Dubai, which is where clients visit for factory acceptance tests, mock-ups and project reviews. Machining generates dust, noise and material movement. Separating those activities allows us to improve workflow efficiency while creating a better environment for assembly, finishing and client interaction.&nbsp;How important is vertical integration to your business model?It’s fundamental. One of the reasons we remain competitive internationally is because we undertake a significant amount of work in-house. We have dedicated engineering, joinery, upholstery, finishing and metalworking capabilities operating within the same organisation. That allows us to maintain control over programme schedules, quality standards and costs. It also improves communication between departments and reduces reliance on external suppliers. For yacht projects, where tolerances are extremely tight and schedules are often compressed, that level of integration is a major advantage.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400469/image/large-d88220b7d5cbb05fa65d2796fe97e3df.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400469">Looking ahead, what will define the next stage of growth for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Interiors (Company)">Superyacht Interiors Dubai</a>?Growth remains important, but craftsmanship remains at the centre of everything we do. Technology improves efficiency and accuracy, but ultimately every yacht interior is still built by skilled craftsmen. Our objective is to combine those traditional skills with modern engineering and manufacturing systems, creating an environment where designers, shipyards and owners can realise increasingly ambitious projects. That balance between craftsmanship, innovation and collaboration is what will continue to define <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7319" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Interiors (Company)">Superyacht Interiors Dubai</a> in the years ahead.

Superyacht Interiors Dubai CEO Interview

SuperYacht Times interviews Superyacht Interiors CEO

CEO in Conversation: Roger Myers on scaling Superyacht Interiors Dubai

Launched in October 2025, the 72-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> 74Steel superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11729" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Fox72.0m (236'3&quot;)Sanlorenzo2026">Silver Fox</a> is the first flagship hull in the series. The steel-hulled motor yacht is positioned at the top of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>’s range and is designed to prioritise volume, outdoor living and onboard comfort across all guest areas. SuperYacht Times takes a closer look onboard to find out more. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399685/image/large-b51da549db5d745f4ae0d34f9c8a5274.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399685">Each hull in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> 74Steel series features a different level of customisation, including varied interiors, layouts and bow configurations, while retaining the proven technical platform.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399709/image/large-779578fa60e88ae85c597f77d187eef0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399709"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11729" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Fox72.0m (236'3&quot;)Sanlorenzo2026">Silver Fox</a> features exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuccon International Project (Company)">Zuccon International Project</a>, with the interiors of the first hull created by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/586" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Francesco Paszkowski (Company)">Francesco Paszkowski</a> in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6365" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Margherita Casprini (Company)">Margherita Casprini</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399711/image/large-1d447f9d2c202e09d53eb17918e1baad.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399711">The 74Steel yacht has been developed on a pre-engineered technical platform and is offered with either diesel-electric or conventional propulsion. This arrangement enables more flexible interior layouts, particularly in the beach club and spa areas, which reach close to 290 square-metres when the transom and side platforms are deployed.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399712/image/large-3826af38bd3e1c8635a450d1ddd18829.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399712">“From a brand perspective, this is a pivotal moment for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>”, explained Massimo Perotti, Chairman and CEO of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> Group during her launch in October 2025.&nbsp;“This is our most ambitious project and it marks a new pinnacle in our steel range. The 74Steel is more than just our largest yacht; it’s a statement of our values, representing elegance, restraint and the purity of living life at sea, the core values of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>.”Read more: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/64382" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo launches flagship 74Steel yacht (2025-10-06 11:00:00 +0200)">Sanlorenzo launches flagship 74Steel yacht</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399713/image/large-8d91a979fd824faceb400fc5e69388d1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399713"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11729" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Fox72.0m (236'3&quot;)Sanlorenzo2026">Silver Fox</a> is characterised by sinuous forms and a vertical bow giving the yacht a distinctive profile. Moving inside, her interiors are modern and refined, with curved furniture, sculpted forms and matte wood finishes, complemented by varied marbles across her ensuite bathrooms.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399707/image/large-7bc2030054f257bc745f1aea668abb27.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399707">The layout of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11729" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Fox72.0m (236'3&quot;)Sanlorenzo2026">Silver Fox</a> has been conceived to allow seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces throughout the day. Her main saloon combines a relaxed lounge and cinema area with a separate dining space that seats up to 14 guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399705/image/large-9902a1a97fe2002fce24810874b181cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399705">Spanning 130 square-metres, the space includes sliding glass doors on both sides, opening the space to sea views and a gentle breeze. Aft, a spectacular glass-bottomed pool bathes the beach club below with natural light, creating a calm connection to the sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399694/image/large-767cbc8f5635eed27df952aa7bdee315.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399694"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399702/image/large-bfd5402543fed2a4d672b0b348afb721.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399702"> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11729" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Fox72.0m (236'3&quot;)Sanlorenzo2026">Silver Fox</a> boasts an eight stateroom configuration for up to 12 guests. She offers a 300-square-metre private owner’s deck, with a forward-facing suite, private terrace, two bathrooms and a secluded aft dining area. Her five remaining guest staterooms are located on the main deck and include a full-beam VIP suite with a private lounge.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399710/image/large-e7859a34915a2381cd88aac4caf67128.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399710">Sliding panels allow the VIP’s saloon to be closed off from the sleeping area, creating an intimate retreat that feels like a private apartment. A central corridor connects each stateroom directly to the main saloon, where guests can gather in a relaxed lounge setting or enjoy an evening cinema experience with a large-format screen and bespoke seating.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399637/image/large-f28523ffcdc6ee09803ec5187f2dcccb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399637"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399703/image/large-56ed3c7a86d4c4bfeb460f3ebac7c4b5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399703">The lower deck of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11729" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Fox72.0m (236'3&quot;)Sanlorenzo2026">Silver Fox</a> houses a professional galley with a spacious crew dinette opposite. In the forward section are 11 crew cabins, while a twelfth cabin can double as a hospital berth if required. Two dedicated crew staircases also connect the lower deck to the bridge deck, ensuring smooth, efficient and discreet service throughout the yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399717/image/large-654d056c3db250ea099285e088759b96.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399717">Her sundeck includes alfresco dining options, complemented by panoramic views. The forward seating area, with a firepit and a second hot tub surrounded by sun pads, provides a dramatic yet intimate setting for evenings at sea, while a transparent glass windbreak beneath the hardtop ensures comfort even when the breeze rises.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399646/image/large-814c331d6bfe9fbeae2335083860a971.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399646"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399698/image/large-d55416f4cd9c4de771bb32a8aa9c2f63.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399698"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399697/image/large-eb72fbe57ede902ac2a6367c29ded5f6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399697">The beach club of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11729" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Fox72.0m (236'3&quot;)Sanlorenzo2026">Silver Fox</a> is equipped with a gym with a fold-down terrace, massage suite, sauna, hammam, cold plunge pool, hair salon and a family room for younger guests. When opened to the water, this entire area transforms into a generous waterfront retreat, close to 290 square-metres, with walkaround access.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399644/image/large-fd64a0ebd4774e93343baadbcf120026.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399644">There is also a sports court with flood lights on the bow, so guests can play pickleball, basketball and football at their leisure. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11729" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Fox72.0m (236'3&quot;)Sanlorenzo2026">Silver Fox</a> also carries multiple personal watercraft, Seabobs and Fliteboards, alongside three tenders. These include a 10-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4716" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pascoe International (Company)">Pascoe</a> limousine tender, a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4716" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pascoe International (Company)">Pascoe</a> beach lander RIB and a dedicated ski boat.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399693/image/large-2ab5811882b72906bf7aa4c8da71cde0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399693">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11729" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Fox72.0m (236'3&quot;)Sanlorenzo2026">Silver Fox</a> is equipped with a diesel-electric system developed with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1981" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Siemens Energy (Company)">Siemens Energy</a>, relying on six variable-speed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Volvo Penta (Company)">Volvo Penta</a>–Mase generators driving twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1131" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Schottel GmbH (Company)">Schottel</a> E-Pods, supported by a 1.5 MWh battery bank.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/399686/image/large-5f239ca873449a6f76b2a1fc3c0aa55f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/399686">

Onboard the Sanlorenzo 74Steel superyacht Silver Fox

SuperYacht Times takes a closer look onboard the Sanlorenzo 74Steel superyacht Silver Fox to find out more.

Silver Fox: First look onboard the flagship Sanlorenzo 74Steel superyacht

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400466/image/large-34e8c5e2c5c5e844965e2831994c8232.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400466">Seen cruising through the Kiel Canal was the 37-metre converted motor sailer yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1168" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cassiopeia37.0m (121'5&quot;)Torre del Greco1946">Cassiopeia</a>.Originally built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/818" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Torre del Greco (Company)">Torre del Greco</a> in 1946, the vessel was constructed for commercial service during the Second World War. She was then transformed into a private yacht in the 1960s under ownership linked to the Agnelli family of Fiat.Built with a triple-planked iroko and mahogany hull on oak frames, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1168" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cassiopeia37.0m (121'5&quot;)Torre del Greco1946">Cassiopeia</a> measures 172 GT and accommodates up to seven guests across four staterooms. Her classic sailing profile is complemented by inviting outdoor spaces, including an alfresco dining area positioned beneath her distinctive rigging arrangement, alongside generous lounge areas designed for relaxed cruising.The motor sailer yacht is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1451" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gardner (Company)">Gardner</a> engines, giving her a cruising speed of nine knots and a top speed of 10 knots.

sailing yacht Cassiopeia in Kiel Canal

Seen cruising through the Kiel Canal was the 37-metre converted motor sailer yacht Cassiopeia.

37m classic sailing yacht Cassiopeia cruising in Kiel Canal

The 33.91-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3920" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Final Cut33.91m (111'3&quot;)Sunseeker2011">Final Cut</a> sold in a deal with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Phoenix Yacht Management (Company)">Phoenix Yacht Management</a> introducing the buyer and Cem Kuşkonmaz of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4569" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautique Yachting (Company)">Nautique Yachting</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387155/image/large-60c3de5f5b0522e9e6fa4ae304bf61b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387155">Delivered in 2011 as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> 34M series, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3920" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Final Cut33.91m (111'3&quot;)Sunseeker2011">Final Cut</a> has been designed in-full by her British builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a>, which were responsible for her interior and exterior design, as well as her naval architecture.&nbsp;Spanning 225 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3920" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Final Cut33.91m (111'3&quot;)Sunseeker2011">Final Cut</a> can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests across a five stateroom configuration, with her master suite situated forward on the main deck, alongside two doubles and two twins on the lower deck.&nbsp;In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3920" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Final Cut33.91m (111'3&quot;)Sunseeker2011">Final Cut</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, providing her with a cruising speed of 18 knots and a top speed of 25 knots. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3920" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Final Cut33.91m (111'3&quot;)Sunseeker2011">Final Cut</a> had a last known asking price of €3,900,000.&nbsp;

Final Cut: 34m Sunseeker yacht sold

The 33.91-metre Sunseeker motor yacht Final Cut sold with a last known asking price of €3,900,000.

34m Sunseeker motor yacht Final Cut sold

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a> has announced the appointment of Myriam Cutolo as Executive Vice President. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400424/image/large-bb28a90401bc22ca0d567563f4dbb08e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400424">In her new role, Myriam Cutolo will coordinate the company’s administration, finance, organisation and business development activities, working in synergy with the management team and the heads of the various operational areas.Myriam brings with her extensive knowledge of the company, where she has developed her understanding of the organisation, its people and the processes in which it operates. An Olympic sailor and manager, her skills have been honed to complement the experience and skills of the team. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400419/image/large-786015d14f715d880541f2641a598533.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400419">Founded in 1995 by Sergio Cutolo and Silvia Himsolt, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a> has evolved from an engineering company into a leading yacht design firm. The company has grown over the years, with the arrival of Nicola Camuffo as Chief Technical Officer (CTO) and Michele Lauriero as Chief Operating Officer (COO) in 2025.“Over more than thirty years, Sergio Cutolo built far more than a design studio: he built a culture, a vision and a wealth of expertise that today belong to all 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 Myriam Cutolo.“My goal is not to replace my father, because a figure like his cannot be replaced, and there would be no point in trying. My role is to help ensure that what he built continues to grow and generate value through the people who lead and develop the company every day.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/400421/image/large-e9c1b1f865b39b50291c37cd6dc865fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/400421">Speaking of his daughter’s transition into the role of Executive Vice President, President &amp; Founder Sergio Cutolo said: “Seeing Myriam take on this role is a source of great satisfaction for me, not only as founder but also as a father.”“What we are building together is an organisation capable of evolving while maintaining the same quality, reliability and passion that have guided us from the very beginning. That is the most important guarantee we can offer for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec (Company)">Hydro Tec</a>’s future.”

Hydro Tec appoints Myriam Cutolo as Executive Vice President

Hydro Tec has announced the appointment of Myriam Cutolo as Executive Vice President. 

Druten may not have the reputation or stature as some of the major Dutch cities, but it does have that certain familiarity as all quintessential rural towns do. It's a town where heritage and the modern-age are just as present, and also the town where <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a> chose to set up shop. Both town and superyacht design studio seem to ponder the same question: how to find the perfect intersections between tradition and modernity? <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222326/image/large-36687fa48b2c1172fb85d91adc58e416.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222326">As founder, Frank Laupman, explained his (and by extension, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a>’s) design language is “characterised as being romantic and modernist, while simultaneously being contemporary and innovative”. To date, Frank has designed more than 120 yachts and there are many more to come. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> needs no introduction and its insignia is held in high esteem in the yachting sector. In the last 12 months, six superyachts featuring a design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a> have hit the water and the firm has some exciting projects that they’re currently working on.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222330/image/large-b44030e6be2719893764e15486cbc8d0.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222330"> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> has partnered up with the Turkish-bashed shipbuilder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4909" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Venture Yachts (Company)">Venture Yachts</a> on three forthcoming projects: a 24-metre, currently in-build; a 43-metre, in the design stage; and a larger tri-decked yacht in the preliminary stages. There are also ongoing “conversations about a 65-metre project to be built in Turkey,” Frank divulged. The team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> is also working on a 42-metre project with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2496" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alia Yachts (Company)">Alia Yachts</a>. The last time this collaboration was forged, we were graced with the highly charismatic 60.3-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5673" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samurai60.3m (197'10&quot;)Alia Yachts2016">Samurai</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/88624/image/large-82fb0cf80f81c247e8fb334590558373.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/88624">For this forthcoming model, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> will also handle the interior styling and will incorporate features such as glass sliding doors from the saloon to the aft deck. She’ll also feature a beach club that can be completely open. “We’ve shaped her with a very sleek, traditional rake bow; however, she looks very modern,” Frank said. “She’ll also be fast, with a top speed of around 23/24 knots.”&nbsp;Closer to home, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Yachts</a> is further enforcing its relationship with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>. The Dutch duo has already launched more than 70 yachts and they currently have five models either in-build or pending. Three 55m Steels are forecasted for the coming years – Project Serena, the most recent to be announced, and Project Gemini the next to be delivered (2022). Frank described the model run as “somewhere between a stereotype and the distinguishable <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> heritage” The series is as much proud as it is proper – the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> 55m Steel are not sport yachts, they’re yachts.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/78406/image/large-796b461fd3e75633e78a2567f93943c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/78406">The 50-metre Book Ends also has a 2022 delivery date; while the largest of the batch, the one-off 60-metre&nbsp;Project Skyfall is penned in for 2023. “Skyfall exudes power and speed in every single detail,” Frank explained. “She’ll be the most powerful, diesel-driven yacht (no turbines, just jets) to be built in the Netherlands, to date. Her aggressive paint scheme serves to further highlight these characteristics. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/206344/image/large-57640c1b3e6af16785796ffe8e1ace58.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/206344"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/177071/image/large-f617cb52abe59bd6b94ac931b8b35979.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/177071">We started the process with a normal yacht, which had to be unique, in terms of design and technical properties. But as we designed her for a keen angler, we altered her to meet the owner’s needs, to include a fully operable fish cockpit.” The owner also has a shadow vessel, which will be built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5752" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vanquish Yachts (Company)">Vanquish</a> and designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/234" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Guido de Groot Design (Company)">Guido de Groot</a>, in-build that will mirror the mothership.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222325/image/large-93db274829026a7921924245772c7cca.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222325">The following year, 2024, Heesen will launch two more <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a>-designed yachts: the 56.7-metre Akira and the 49.98-metre Project Jade. The former has a profile that carries long horizontal lines which are soothing, yet subtly aggressive and sporty. “Her superstructure is relatively aft-leaning compared to other <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> designs,” Frank said. “And the nearly vertical bow points out her sturdy and stately character. The large amounts of glass were preserved in this new design, creating a visual indoor/outdoor relationship.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/71072/image/large-5896eba81178daf094c4e21175a5c3e6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/71072">Project Jade, however, falls more into the remit of tradition. “She is the third from our 50-metre series – <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7333" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquamarine49.98m (163'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts2021">Aquamarine</a> being the first – and combines the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a> heritage with the one of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> as a builder of elegant and sporty aluminium motor yachts,” Frank explained. “Jade features the ‘integrated hull and body design’ which was firstly featured in the iconic 65-metre Galactica Star,&nbsp;now called <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3676" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Illusion65.0m (213'3&quot;)Heesen Yachts2013">Illusion</a>. Her raised aft-deck features a full height beach club which directly connects to a flush swim platform level, and is harmoniously combined with this ‘integrated hull and body design’.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222247/image/large-3e2f4aea36c277fc9178aa42cbf2834f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222247">The engines of the design process are in constant motion and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> is busy drawing up new concepts and new designs, which they were kind enough to give SYT a sneak peek of. The collection all exceed 60-metres and is diverse in styling. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222248/image/large-819eca4ac740db723faff85cd4abcf59.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222248"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222246/image/large-56103a5a9782d99191d98203c1e94466.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222246">The 70-metre Project Elle is characterised by long, sinewy lines that taper to aft. She is sleek, modern and incredibly generous for outdoor living space. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> has wrapped her midship with glass, adding additional sports-like charm, while also providing views from the main saloon. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222252/image/large-d6949596f8a56c5540976ed958c27d83.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222252"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222250/image/large-bd1ee84c5cd9327cbcad82bf68d17f61.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222250"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222249/image/large-1cc9511bb6bd0f66fcb3568e47c80a85.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222249">There is an ongoing conversation in yacht design about how to strike a harmonious balance between the exterior and interior spaces. Many are heading down the route to remove all barriers, but for Frank and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> the exciting challenge is “to not conjoin the spaces, but to harness them so they communicate in an intelligent and interesting way without blending them into one unit.” The second concept takes this same approach, but from an entirely different angle. She has an enclosed superstructure that is broken up by long stretches of black, tinted glass. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> has opened up the aft with three large, cascading decks. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222253/image/large-0bfdfe1e441b7c18a858124e899eb8fd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222253"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222251/image/large-c145f546ef8c4d2a0265d4647ba819a2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222251"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> also presented a 70-metre support vessel, akin to an explorer. It boasts heaps of space to aft to carry a hoard of tenders and toys, as well as a fully certified helipad. While <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> isn’t famed for designing explorers, with the rise in requests for this type of vessel with more rugged capabilities and space for tenders, they’re furthering into the space. “We may not yet be explorer specialists,” Frank said. “But we come with a unique approach and exciting ideas.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222328/image/large-6e792bc5931cab58571e7af30610751e.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222328"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222296/image/large-61e9e66b1764b77a23680738fb25f08f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222296"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222295/image/large-c99e6223e61c6a198bc7304119e30b2a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222295">Spending time at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> proved to be a great opportunity to hear about how the design process has adapted over the years, and Frank was more than happy to share. “The process itself hasn’t exactly changed, but client expectations are now higher than they used to be. It is more common to be joined by technical representatives and not just the captain. As the yachts develop there are more specialists involved.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222257/image/large-5a34ae8bd5b8ec1b8f73a9b46009bdb1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222257">“Designers then also manage people and teams – and our clients are well aware of this. If an owner is building his first yacht, he has likely built up factories, businesses and sales teams. He understands the value of communication between teams. There is more of this now than there was before.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222256/image/large-4194c0312fa121069a606c37580b8b88.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222256"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222255/image/large-c84904a3474066cfe9bd2d9dc7edcae8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222255">“The interior/exterior conversation is just one point in question – both frequently work in each other’s field so good communication is paramount. It’s in everyone’s interest to stay on the same page. This isn’t a negative either as it spurs on innovation as design is driven by conversations and people.”The challenge of a designer is how to make something unique and special, but importantly possible. A designer is constantly testing the pliability of the crossroad where tradition and modernity meet, and the continual fleet of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a> pays testament to this.&nbsp;

At the studio with Omega Architects

SYT paid a visit to Omega for an exclusive "behind the scenes look" at the Dutch design studio. 

The great crossroad of design: At the studio with Omega Architects

The 45.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/40" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Hakvoort Shipyard (Company)">Royal Hakvoort</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adur45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2022">Adur</a> was launched today from the shipyard’s facility in Monnickendam, Netherlands, following her sale in 2018. Her exterior and interior were designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a>, while her naval architecture comes from the boards of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/460" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Oossanen Naval Architects (Company)">Van Oossanen Naval Architects</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228847/image/large-17a0dad0c53a39a533a4a60747507229.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228847">The custom project was commissioned by an experienced and involved owner in December 2018 and features a clean and sporty exterior. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adur45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2022">Adur</a> showcases floor to ceiling wrap-around windows on both aft decks, at the request of her the owner, in order to offer panoramic views from the main deck saloon and plenty of natural light.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228855/image/large-fff885658851c059e3100954ebd8d973.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228855"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228845/image/large-3943c143907f5a58da2491b85c5c36c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228845"> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adur45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2022">Adur</a>’s lower deck houses a gym while the bow is home to a submarine for guests to explore the ocean depths. She includes a flush stern and scooped bulwarks for clear views of her surroundings.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228860/image/large-9dcf28eb4534140a9bfc4cd77a361ae7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228860"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adur45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2022">Adur</a> is able to accommodate up to eight guests across four staterooms with the owners suite equipped with a private office located on the main deck. The remaining three guest accommodations are located on the lower deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228863/image/large-9be281ff74cb7001425bb71e8e0c3006.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228863">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adur45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2022">Adur</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines that propel her to an impressive top speed of 26.5 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots.Following her launch <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7921" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adur45.2m (148'4&quot;)Royal Hakvoort Shipyard2022">Adur</a> will complete outfitting ahead of delivery later this year.

45m Royal Hakvoort motor yacht Adur launched

The 45m Royal Hakvoort motor yacht Adur was launched today from the Royal Hakvoort Shipyard facility in Monnickendam, Netherlands.

Long Read

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