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

Onboard Goga with Paolo and Giovanna Vitelli

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

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

While the London-based design firm <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2 Yacht Design</a> may be best known for its work within the Turkish superyacht sector, having designed more than 30 yachts in the region, the company’s canon is varied in both design style and yacht type. Led by the inimitable Jonny Horsfield, whose frank, straight talking attitude has led to many close relationships with builders and clients, the studio is home to a deep level of expertise, with a team that specialise in some of the most detailed work found in the global fleet. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308201/image/large-7f656666f3ac42ed60e82c2ef71ff971.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308201">A automotive designer by training, Jonny found his place in yacht design in the late 80s somewhat by chance, cutting his teeth under Martin Francis – designer of the highly recognisable superyachts <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">Motor Yacht A</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5626" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Golden Odyssey123.2m (404'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2015">Golden Odyssey</a>&nbsp;and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/901" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zeus74.5m (244'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH1991">ECO&nbsp;</a>(to name a few). Returning to London in the early-90s, he joined the team at Donald Starkey, alongside Pascale Reymond and Andy Langton, future founders of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/56" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reymond Langton Design Ltd. (Company)">Reymond Langton Design</a>. Under Starkey, Jonny specialised in interior design, and he describes those years as “the best years of learning for my career.”When Starkey let the team go during the 1993 recession, Jonny and Steve Howard, another of Starkey’s team, decided to go it alone, utilising their experience and contacts gained under Don to pick up work within the Turkish refit market. Officially coining the company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2 Yacht Design</a> (Horsfield and Howard being the two Hs), <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/206" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachting Partners International (Company)">Yachting Partners International</a> became a major advocate for the brand’s early success and the refit work was considerable. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/77954/image/large-842bee5b9290948276598155fd15d277.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/77954">“It was a different refit market back then, quick and somewhat dirty, but we learned a lot about costs, budgeting and about how to keep the client happy. The issue was that we really weren’t building a reputation in the new-build sector so changing that perspective took a lot of work.” By 2006 however, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2</a> landed its first new-build with the interior of Talisman C, now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/373" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Talisman Maiton54.2m (177'10&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2006">Talisman Maiton</a>, at Proteksan, the shipyard that went on to become <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise</a>. That first build set the ball rolling for new-builds and also forged a hugely successful relationship with the shipyard. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2</a> has now launched 10 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise</a> yachts, with two more currently in-build.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280772/image/large-6a60d2ad84d85ed0a07b797a98158dc2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280772">While Turkish yachts are only part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2</a> story, they do make up nearly half of the studio’s portfolio and in some ways Jonny has taken some negative heat over the years for the interior styling of a number of the yachts. The recent launch of the 80-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leona80.0m (262'6&quot;)Bilgin Yachts2023">Leona</a>, which made it onto the cover of a number of publications and garnered millions of views on social media, is an example of one yacht that, while divisive, demonstrates <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2’</a>s capabilities when it comes to bespoke superyacht interiors.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280861/image/large-4fdcc27bcbf5b4f9f516e9fde5e7b11d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280861"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280792/image/large-6a058140153c6376373dfa183966f71c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280792">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leona80.0m (262'6&quot;)Bilgin Yachts2023">Leona</a>’s interior is not my style, it's not representative necessarily of the studio’s style, but it also isn’t the role of a yacht designer to force their own style on a client. We never expected <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leona80.0m (262'6&quot;)Bilgin Yachts2023">Leona</a> to be for sale and certainly didn’t expect her to attend a yacht show. For everyone that likes the boat, there is someone that hates it, but it was made for a client who had a very clear vision and it is that vision that we succeeded in creating, which I am proud of.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308206/image/large-38f1f816e359a30c413d3090aca6893e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308206">While <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leona80.0m (262'6&quot;)Bilgin Yachts2023">Leona</a>, and somewhat the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6437" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jewels53.0m (173'11&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2023">Jewels</a> launched in 2022, are at one end of the spectrum, other Turkish yachts have also raised the bar for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2</a> and its global positioning. One example of this is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6653" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leona80.0m (262'6&quot;)Bilgin Yachts2023">Leona</a>’s sistership <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3262" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tatiana33.3m (109'3&quot;)Bilgin Yachts2006">Tatiana</a> launched in 2020, for which Jonny received a number of plaudits. A contemporary, modern and fresh style, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3262" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tatiana33.3m (109'3&quot;)Bilgin Yachts2006">Tatiana</a>’s interiors have been widely acclaimed, with many new and international clients coming to the studio on the back of her success. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vento87.0m (285'5&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2024">Vento</a>, the 87-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise</a> due to launch later this year, is set to exhibit yet another of the studio’s capabilities, and will be an interesting yacht to see. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308209/image/large-ec49ff618eec8cfda55c4124a2a08c77.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308209">When it comes to his favourite yachts in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2</a> portfolio, the stand out for Jonny today is the 74.98-metre <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/6415" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arrow74.98m (245'12&quot;)Feadship2020">Arrow</a>, launched in 2020 and hailed as the yacht to see at last year’s boat show in Palm Beach. “If you’d asked me a few years ago I would have said the 123-metre <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/5968" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Al Lusail123.0m (403'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Al Lusail&nbsp;</a>(exterior by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2</a>), but seeing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6415" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arrow74.98m (245'12&quot;)Feadship2020">Arrow</a> at Palm Beach, I was really blown away. I’d not seen the yacht outside of the yard, and while she has a fairly standard profile in terms of lines, the detailing in her proportions are lovely and something I am really proud of.” &nbsp;A knock-out at the show, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6415" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arrow74.98m (245'12&quot;)Feadship2020">Arrow</a> sold during the event, with allegedly as many as 25 millionaires stepping onboard during the course of the week, which is a testament to her design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261070/image/large-877f2ec3b1bec6c03a535c35842aad10.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261070"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5968" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Al Lusail123.0m (403'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Al Lusail</a>, one of the largest in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2</a>’s canon, is far more radical in her exterior lines, with interconnecting arches throughout her superstructure. Comparing the two boats Jonny explains, “when you look at her you think, that is a spaceship, but in a way her exterior was easier to design, because the brief was ‘do whatever you want, go wild’. Whereas for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6415" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arrow74.98m (245'12&quot;)Feadship2020">Arrow</a> the brief was very particular and fairly conservative and that restriction can be challenging. In a way I am more proud of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6415" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arrow74.98m (245'12&quot;)Feadship2020">Arrow</a> and the way we created this ultra-modern and sleek yacht within more traditional proportions.”&nbsp;While talking about large yachts, it's impossible to not to mention <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5306" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="REV Ocean (Company)">REV Ocean</a>, which is due to be the largest yacht in the world when launched in 2026. Now expected to be around 195-metres, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5306" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="REV Ocean (Company)">REV</a> has been through some highly publicised delays and developments, but despite the broad exposure, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2</a>’s has gone somewhat unmentioned. Involved in the project from a very early point, the owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5306" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="REV Ocean (Company)">REV</a>, the Norwegian businessman Kjell Inge Røkke, first saw <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2</a>’s work onboard the 107.4-metre Ulysses (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4946" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Andromeda107.4m (352'4&quot;)Kleven Maritime AS2016">Andromeda</a>) at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/13" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2018">Monaco Yacht Show 2018</a>. “He didn’t necessarily like the interior of Ulysses, but Kjell admired what we had done at a commercial shipyard, using cruise ship technology and a tight budget, to create a superyacht finish and so we were commissioned to create the interiors of REV.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308208/image/large-f0eaa1a977e141fe4c590f8d017fa765.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308208"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308207/image/large-9548aa44296343ae53a771e521687c0c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308207">With <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5306" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="REV Ocean (Company)">REV</a>’s construction now back underway, Jonny and the team have kicked back into gear, digging out the drawings and revising the interiors, where possible, to align with the new exterior. Kept tightly under wraps, Jonny describes her interiors as “minimal and quite industrial, almost like an apartment in regards to the architecture and aesthetic, with features such as perforated metal doors. It was a really enjoyable project to work on and I’m looking forward to getting stuck back into it over the coming months.”&nbsp;While its portfolio is broad, and Jonny remains firm on the stance that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2</a> does not have a house style, when pushed he does infer that the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3262" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tatiana33.3m (109'3&quot;)Bilgin Yachts2006">Tatiana</a> is most closely aligned with his own stylistic taste. “I would say that ‘house style’ changes over time and develops with the market. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3262" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tatiana33.3m (109'3&quot;)Bilgin Yachts2006">Tatiana</a> has been a really great project for us and we have seen a lot of demand for the modern and neutral aesthetic – you will recognise it to an extent in Al Reem which is due for launch this year. It's a new thing for me to be ‘mainstream’ because we’ve created so many bespoke and ‘unique’ yachts that this is a very positive moment for the studio.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308204/image/large-7e2f73825573a7a526aef0b641b9bd23.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308204">This article is featured in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/issue-48-superyacht-times-newspaper" target="_blank">Issue 48</a> of the SuperYacht Times newspaper. <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe now</a> to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

Interview with H2 Yacht Design founder Jonny Horsfield

Francesca Webster sits down with Jonny Horsfield, founder of H2 Yacht Design to talk about his expansive canon of work.


The uprising of H2 Yacht Design with Jonny Horsfield

For this weeks edition for our charter newsletter <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Yacht Charter Market</a>, Jessamie Rattray sits down with Jacqui Lockhart, the newly-appointed Charter Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Big Blue Expeditions (Company)">Big Blue Expeditions</a> and former Head of Europe Charter Marketing at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper and Nicholsons</a>, to discuss <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Big Blue Expeditions (Company)">Big Blue Expeditions</a>, the new CA of the 126.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopus126.2m (414'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Octopus</a>.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopus126.2m (414'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Octopus</a> has been in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1075" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lloyd Werft (Company)">Lloyd Werft</a> shipyard in Bremerhaven since September undergoing refit work, and will be rejoining the charter market this summer for her second full season, with her ownership company, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Big Blue Expeditions (Company)">Big Blue Expeditions</a>, as her new in-house charter manager.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224946/image/large-2fbf251fbfdd0a35dc3ee70a043bb663.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224946">We have seen that&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Big Blue Expeditions (Company)">Big Blue Expeditions</a>&nbsp;is also the ownership company of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopus126.2m (414'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Octopus</a>. What prompted the decision to change&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopus126.2m (414'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Octopus</a>'s charter management to in-house, and will you take on the yachts of other owners?Big Blue Expeditions is the manager for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopus126.2m (414'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Octopus</a>, along with an award-winning Eco-Luxury property in Thailand. A yacht as prestigious as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopus126.2m (414'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Octopus</a> warrants a distinct representation. The owner has consistently prioritised in-house management to uphold his stringent quality standards and align with our strategic vision.Looking ahead, there will be other projects in the future. We are considering expanding our charter operations to include additional yachts and other travel ventures within the same group, further enhancing our bespoke offerings. My role at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Big Blue Expeditions (Company)">Big Blue Expeditions</a> is to focus on the promotion of Octopus for charter, as well as overseeing other projects in the future.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259739/image/large-9948ddc51ec0008895b0b3532030400e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259739">What made you decide to join <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Big Blue Expeditions (Company)">Big Blue Expeditions</a>&nbsp;from a large company?Over the past 30 years, I have accumulated substantial expertise in key roles at leading firms and by managing my own company for 12 years.Last year's introspection on my professional aspirations coincided perfectly with the chance to join Big Blue Expeditions. The vibrant energy of the team and the promising opportunities on the horizon made it a straightforward choice for me to contribute my seasoned skills to this vibrant enterprise.What are the challenges in promoting a large and unique yacht like&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopus126.2m (414'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Octopus</a>, and how do you promote the yacht?Promoting <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopus126.2m (414'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Octopus</a> involves highlighting both her legacy and her unique capabilities for expeditions. We have developed a dedicated website to showcase her history, features, and available charters in greater detail.&nbsp;The demand for chartering her remains robust, and with my industry contacts and our targeted promotional strategies, we aim to secure the recognition <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopus126.2m (414'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Octopus</a> truly deserves.---------------For the full interview and more information about the upcoming season aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/270" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopus126.2m (414'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Octopus</a>, head over to <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" target="_blank">Yacht Charter Market</a> now and make sure to subscribe to the weekly newsletter for all charter stories.

Yacht Octopus and Big Blue Expeditions 

We sat down with Jacqui Lockhart of Big Blue Expeditions, the new CA of explorer yacht Octopus.

Who is Big Blue Expeditions, the new CA of the 126m M/Y Octopus?

For our latest edition of Entrepreneur in Yachting for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/issue-48-superyacht-times-newspaper" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issue 48</a> of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, Francesca Webster sat down with Josh Richardson, Founder and CEO of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2854" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Tenders and Toys (Company)">Superyacht Tenders &amp; Toys</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303861/image/large-4aed28d1595ca94dd8dbe8c2f1ee84d4.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303861">Can you share the inspiration and vision behind the founding of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2854" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Tenders and Toys (Company)">Superyacht Tender and Toys</a> (SYTT)?&nbsp;Essentially it was due to a need for a go-to company offering management consultancy and procurement for tenders and toys on a new-build project I was working on as a yacht manager. As I could not find anyone who offered what I needed, I thought it was something the world needed! Turns out it did – phew! The tenders and toys had always been a specific area of interest for me as a previous captain and a yacht manager, and I believed I had a very specific skill set which others could use on their projects! Prior to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2854" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Tenders and Toys (Company)">SYTT</a> I was Chief Instructor of a yacht training school, so had a huge amount of experience in all manner of craft. I also had a job driving boats in films, followed by captaining various sailboats between the UK and NZ, followed by a few years working for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hill Robinson (Company)">Hill Robinson Yacht Management</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303864/image/large-056c07999a8a74c083bc6d9ac61fd644.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303864">Could you elaborate on some key milestones and challenges that have shaped the company's journey so far?&nbsp;Initially it was just my wife and I working from home but very quickly we grew with seemingly large steps such as getting offices, warehousing and growing our staff. In recent years with Brexit, covid and the Ukraine war this has certainly caused some additional challenges. Some of these are positive, such as us setting up a Monaco company and extending our warehousing to Nice to cater for EU clients.We were ahead of the market (first to market) in the offering we were doing as a business when we set up and that certainly helped us grow as a business. Typical tenders onboard yachts were a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Novurania (Company)">Novurania</a> or a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zodiac Maritime Ltd. (Company)">Zodiac</a> and toys were usually a Jet Ski and towable. As we know this has greatly changed, with tenders and toys being critical to the enjoyment and marketing of a yacht, with a typical 50 metre spending approximately €100k on a new-build toys setup and yachts having multiple, often custom yacht tenders, limousines and chase boats. In the very early days, many tender manufacturers were unknown and poorly marketed, and our experience made a huge difference in helping guide clients into the best craft for their needs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303865/image/large-c67e542ebaca2327d33f9f53256808f2.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303865">In terms of milestones one significant one was where we won a Queen's Award and met the Royals at Buckingham Palace in 2017. We also won numerous other awards such as the British Marine Federation (BMF) Best Marine Business to work for, BMF Business of the Year and Sunday Times Fasttrack awards showing company growth. Other milestones are some large new-build orders which we got a lot of PR and marketing from. We have been lucky to work with some innovative owners and an example which instantly springs to mind is the original Ulysses U107 (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4946" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Andromeda107.4m (352'4&quot;)Kleven Maritime AS2016">Andromeda</a>) and U116 (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5796" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Multiverse116.0m (380'7&quot;)Kleven Maritime AS2018">Multiverse</a>) made by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2996" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kleven Maritime AS (Company)">Kleven</a>. On these we completed the full tenders and toy outfitting, showcasing what it is we do. We are now involved in a lot of large new-builds in a similar capacity. In truth, the larger the project the more value we add and are often considered an extension to a new-build team.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/203481/image/large-f2ec189e8856bb169bf1f545e7f7c8b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/203481">How has the company evolved to meet the changing demands of the industry?&nbsp;There have been several changes over the years to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2854" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Tenders and Toys (Company)">SYTT</a> and we are now a Group of companies. This includes:&nbsp;• <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shipyard Supply co (Company)">Shipyard Supply Co</a>, setup in 2018, specifically aimed at manufacturing and selling our own deck equipment out of our Suffolk, UK HQ. This includes transom fenders, carbon pillar fenders, tender whips and more.• Incorporating <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2854" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Tenders and Toys (Company)">SYTT</a> MC in 2019, our Monaco business, required due to Brexit but also setup to increase our presence to operational yachts and toy rental in the Med.• Launching <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6504" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ROAM (Company)">ROAM</a> boats in 2021, our own brand of aluminium adventure yacht tenders.• Bringing to market our own Superyacht Inflatables, manufactured in the EU and made from a recyclable TPU instead of PVC.&nbsp;A constant theme with our businesses has been the development to offer what the market is after and adjust what we offer to suit, constantly being in evolution. The requests we got back in 2011 are very different to what we now receive. An example of this is that we used to get asked to populate a tender garage and had a very loose brief. Nowadays people are more educated and know specifically what they want. One significant change for us as a business is that now, in 2023, an increasing number of clients are after a manufacturer direct relationship. This is partly due to price, to ensure the best value, service and communication. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/221830/image/large-dcfd9578fc59eae1b469069b3c099f14.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/221830">As the CEO, what strategies have you employed to foster a culture of innovation within the company?Innovation has been easy! Clients simply ask us to develop new things, whether that be products or services. In terms of personnel we are a very relaxed office and everyone mucks in at all levels. Office doors are always open and both Claire and I have always shared all information throughout the company. This is done face to face but we also share info internally on newsletters, days out and corporate events. Everyone is as important as each other, that is why we have things such as company wide bonuses, which are the same value if junior admin to senior management.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303862/image/large-e593931158c77696b4e0c14e5b233bca.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303862">Are there any strategic partnerships or collaborations that have played a significant role in the growth and success of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2854" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Tenders and Toys (Company)">Superyacht Tender and Toys</a>?&nbsp;There are a number of ones here, and thinking about this they mostly rotate around who we like, are friends with and trust. Exceptional relationships on the tenders side have been <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5749" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ribeye Tenders (Company)">Ribeye</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4767" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Compass Tenders Ltd (Company)">Compass</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4611" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Argo Navis (Company)">Argo Navis</a>. On the toys side it is hard to look past JOBE, Watersports World and Flite.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2854" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Tenders and Toys (Company)">Superyacht Tender and Toys</a>&nbsp;has expanded its scope beyond traditional yacht toys. Can you share insights into the diversification of the company's offerings and how this has contributed to its overall success?&nbsp;There are actually a few ways to answer this. We made our name back in 2011 being a one stop shop. Whether this be fenders, toys, tenders, ropes, gym equipment, procurement and much more. I remember us shipping bottled water around the world for one yacht! We have however had a mini reset in recent years and we now do not market ourselves like this. We no longer do procurement of anything other than tenders and toys. We are very good at what we do, often being seen as a management consultancy and having unique industry experience and do not want to compete with procurement companies selling toilet rolls, crockery, cushions and filters. This change was mainly due to a combination of seeing which products do well for us as a business. Procurement was the worst and one which no staff enjoyed. Since making this change, which felt quite brave at the time, profits have more than doubled in three years and clients are respecting us as the authority on all things tenders and toys.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303867/image/large-189d771c72cd6c82c98a9ecb6a4cbdef.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303867">What exciting developments and innovations can we expect from&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2854" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Tenders and Toys (Company)">Superyacht Tender and Toys</a>&nbsp;in the near future?&nbsp;We have some great new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6504" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ROAM (Company)">ROAM</a> tenders soon to hit the water in 2024. These include a 11 metre owners landing craft, a 9.3 metre and 7.5 metre beachlander, some inflatable landing crafts and an electric RIB. Other than that we are involved in almost all large yacht builds delivered from <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/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> and others. On the fun front we are working on plans to cycle across the channel on a hydrofoiling bike and skydive from a helicopter in Monaco!Finally, what advice would you give to prospective entrepreneurs in this sector?I would tell them it is terrible, you will never earn money and to look for a different sector! Go and sell crew uniforms or something! Regardless of which sector however, if you work harder, longer and are determined at something you enjoy, then you have all the foundation blocks to be successful.&nbsp;This article is featured in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/issue-48-superyacht-times-newspaper" target="_blank">Issue 48</a>&nbsp;of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe now</a>&nbsp;to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.&nbsp;

Josh Richardson of Superyacht Tenders & Toys 

For our latest Entrepreneur in Yachting, we sat down with Josh Richardson of Superyacht Tenders and Toys.

"I couldn't find anyone who offered what I needed, so I created it!" CEO Josh Richardson of SYTT

Stefano de Vivo, Chief Commercial Officer of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> and Executive Director and Board member, joined the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Group</a> in 2014, playing a key role in the development of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> brand. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> sat down with Stefano de Vivo to discuss <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>’s latest construction projects, the brand's approach to expanding its production capacity and its evolution during his tenure.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/83726/image/large-dbe1fc34677b5128cb0f4de495c81226.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/83726">Could you provide insights into the superyachts that are currently under construction at&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>? Project Maranello, the 67.55-metre full <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Leonard</a> design is well underway, due for delivery in 2025, while the 85-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/289" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Vallicelli Design (Company)">Vallicelli</a> designed CRN 144 will make her debut in 2026. Thunderball, the 69.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nauta Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Nauta</a> designed superyacht began construction in mid-2023 and is set to be a very exciting yacht with classic lines and a low profile. Lastly we are working on the 67.6-metre Project 146, which is our latest project signed at the Fort Lauderdale boat show at the end of October last year.&nbsp;The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> Ancona yard is the main <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> construction facility for yachts over 40 metres. Alongside the four <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> superyachts we are simultaneously working on two 42.98-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/584" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pershing S.p.a. (Company)">Pershing</a> 140 yachts, a 50-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a> in aluminium and the inaugural 54-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/363" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Riva S.p.A. (Company)">Riva</a> 54M.Can you provide us with more details about the collaboration between CRN,&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nauta Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Nauta Design</a>, and&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a>&nbsp;in designing and building Project Thunderball?We are collaborating with an owner who, like myself, has a passion for the sea and a background in sailing yachts. His vision is particularly captivating: he seeks to create a superyacht that melds beauty with functionality. His aim is not just luxury for its own sake, but to conceive a vessel that is both aesthetically appealing and practical, capable of navigating in a variety of global locations.During our initial discussions on Project Thunderball, an all-steel construction was considered. However, after comprehensive assessments and detailed calculations with Vripack, we determined that a blend of steel and aluminium would yield superior stability, improved weight management, and cost efficiency. This approach highlights the owner's commitment to exhaustively exploring all options, to ensure a design that is both purposeful and well-defined.The interior design process involved a significant collaboration between <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nauta Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Nauta</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a>. The layout planning was a joint effort, led by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nauta Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Nauta</a> for the interior aesthetics. In a move to align closely with his design preferences, the owner invited our team and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nauta Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Nauta</a>'s designers to his seaside villa. This visit played a pivotal role in grasping the owner’s envisioned style for the yacht, aiming for an ambiance akin to a luxurious, transportable villa, suitable for destinations as varied as the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, South America, and Northern Europe.How has the&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>&nbsp;brand evolved during your tenure, and do you have any future plans or developments in mind for the brand?When I joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> nine and a half years ago, I became a part of a brand with a history spanning over 50 years. At that time, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> was already renowned for its full custom yacht building approach. My initial strategy, perhaps atypical for a new manager in an established company, was to focus on strengthening and reorganising the management team. This approach was necessary to address the organisational challenges the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> faced between 2010 and 2011.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/255380/image/large-7c08ce25bd081c84802e186870c563c8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/255380">A crucial aspect of our strategy at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> has been to assemble the right team for efficient project management. This ensures that our clients are paying the right price, while the company remains profitable. Our approach to yacht building, particularly for vessels over 50 metres, is distinct in the Italian market, and perhaps globally.We've established versatile platforms, utilising our accumulated expertise. Unlike some shipyards with in-house designers, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>'s team of architects and specialists focuses on the construction process, while we entrust design work to external talent. Our collaborations over the years have included various designers, from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/172" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gerhard Gilgenast (Company)">Gerhard Gilgenast</a> in the 80s to contemporary names like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Leonard</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nauta Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Nauta</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a>, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1156" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Massari Design S.r.l. (Company)">Massari</a>.Our philosophy centres on realising a client's vision without being bound by pre-existing designs. This commitment to full customisation and flexibility sets <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> apart. It fuels our innovation in superyacht construction, as we embrace unique client dreams. For instance, the 72-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8096" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Njoy72.26m (237'1&quot;)CRN2024">Njoy</a> features one of the largest swimming pools ever built on a superyacht under 80 metres, rivalling those on much larger vessels. Such achievements reflect our dedication to our ability to push boundaries and explore new possibilities.&nbsp;I would like to emphasise the truly custom nature of our work. This bespoke approach is exemplified in our previous projects like the 54.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2751" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Atlante54.8m (179'9&quot;)CRN2015">Atlante</a>, the 74-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Andrea74.0m (242'9&quot;)CRN2017">Andrea</a> (formerly Cloud 9) and the 62-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">Rio</a>. Our ability to construct a diverse range of unique boats, from large <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/363" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Riva S.p.A. (Company)">Riva</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/584" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pershing S.p.a. (Company)">Pershing</a> models to entirely custom designs, illustrates our versatility and commitment to innovation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235402/image/large-e1a16ff327fc3ed9381a37796d345aff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235402">What is&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>'s current production capacity, and are there any plans to increase it in the near future?We have recently completed a substantial expansion of our production facilities, significantly enhancing our capacity. Currently, among <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/363" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Riva S.p.A. (Company)">Riva</a>, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/584" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pershing S.p.a. (Company)">Pershing</a>, we are able to simultaneously construct up to nine steel and aluminium yachts over 50 metres. This expansion has been a deliberate and gradual process, with careful consideration to avoid the risks associated with overcapacity, which could lead to market saturation and potentially compromise our commitment to quality.Our latest superyachts, including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8096" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Njoy72.26m (237'1&quot;)CRN2024">Njoy</a> and Project Maranello, showcase our ability to meet the highest standards comparable to our Northern European counterparts, yet at a more accessible price point. While our pricing may be higher than other Italian shipyards and significantly above Turkish alternatives, we pride ourselves on delivering a level of quality that is unparalleled in Southern Europe.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261962/image/large-2aa58bfb71728559e1bc7af44932d670.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261962">Finally, if you were to own a yacht, what features would be a priority for you to include?My passion for all things nautical, stemming from my studies in naval architecture and marine engineering, often leads me to appreciate any yacht after spending more than a few minutes onboard.At this point in my life, a small day boat, ideally between 30-50 feet, would be perfect for me. I'd like it moored directly in front of my seaside home, allowing me to manage it myself and easily embark on daily adventures. I prefer tranquil, remote locations over popular jet-set destinations. This article is featured in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/issue-48-superyacht-times-newspaper" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issue 48</a>&nbsp;of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe now</a>&nbsp;to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.&nbsp;

Stefano De Vivo on CRN's unique approach to upcoming superyacht builds

Enrico Chhibber sits down with the CRN’s Stefano de Vivo to talk all things CRN, the yachts and the shipyard's upcoming launches.

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With over twenty years of experience in the industry, James Hall's career has been diverse, beginning in warranty support and rising to the role of Superyacht Sales Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker International</a>. He subsequently moved to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Yachts (Company)">Princess</a>, where he was responsible for overseeing all yacht sales globally for the shipyard for yachts over 30-metres in length. In 2019, Hall joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>, specialising in new-build sales &amp; brokerage for yachts exceeding 30-metres.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/305565/image/large-f8bfea69807a462a32b7fd123808fe30.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/305565">James Hall's broad range of expertise is underscored by his successful sales, including the 36.9-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9059" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Never Say Never Again36.9m (121'1&quot;)Benetti SpA2022">Never Say Never Again</a> (previously named Goga), the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> 50.4-metre MQ2 in conjunction David Westwood, which had a full refit and is now named <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emerald50.4m (165'4&quot;)Feadship1990">Emerald</a> and the 47.25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5595" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alessandra III47.25m (155'0&quot;)Sunseeker2016">Alessandra III</a> (previously named Princess AVK) as well as numerous new-builds. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> sat down with James to delve into his extensive background, his decision to join <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>, and to discuss current trends in the market.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240567/image/large-ec28360356f3664e5473799bab6e46a9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240567">Could you elaborate on your choice to pursue a career in the yachting industry?I pursued a degree in Yacht Manufacturing and Surveying at Southampton Solent University. Initially, my ambition was to become a yacht designer, however, after consultations, I was steered towards specialising in manufacturing and surveying instead.&nbsp;In my second year, I secured a placement at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a>, which ultimately led to a full-time position upon graduation. I started in the warranty team with Sean Robertson, focusing on the aftersales aspect, but quickly transitioned to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a>'s yacht division in 2003. At that time, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> was expanding its range, including the 105 yacht and producing 82-footers at a consistent rate, with two such yachts being completed each month across different production lines.&nbsp;I had the opportunity to work alongside James Hutchinson and Joanne Smith, both of whom were instrumental in my development within the company. Under their mentorship, I grew into roles that involved client project management and specification drafting, which laid the foundation for my career in yachting.As <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> expanded its range of larger yachts, my career progressed correspondingly. I eventually ascended to the role of Superyacht Sales Manager. Over the course of my tenure, I played a pivotal role in the sale of well over 100 yachts exceeding 100 feet in length, many of which were accomplished during my time at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a>. The roles were a balance of project management and global sales management , collaborating closely with our global distribution network and a significant number of direct clients.It is now eight years since my departure from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a>. I reflect on my contributions, including the completion of the second 155 Yacht, for one of my clients, as one of the highlights of my career there. Leaving in 2016, I spent a couple of years in consultancy before joining <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Yachts (Company)">Princess</a> as the Director of their M-class range until the summer of 2019. Following that, I made the transition to what some might consider 'the dark side' - aka brokerage.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220734/image/large-96ecbfba825ea4ce1f874c337add79bf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220734">Could you elaborate on the factors that influenced your decision to join&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW</a>&nbsp;after working with yacht builders?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Yachts (Company)">Princess Yachts</a> made a strategic decision to cease the production of larger yachts. I came in towards the end of their M class series and played a role in the development of the X95.After contemplating the possibility of joining another manufacturer, I ultimately leaned towards a different path. By 2019, with 17 years of experience and a vast network of contacts at my disposal, the question wasn't just about where to go next but about finding the right fit for my next endeavour.In exploring the market and conversing with various industry professionals, after discussions with David Westwood, one the founding partners, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW</a> stood out for its optimal balance. The company was large enough to cover every aspect of the industry comprehensively, yet small enough to maintain a personal touch that I valued highly. This combination of professionalism and approachability, exemplified by Michael White’s involvement and the expertise of individuals like James Graham-Cloete in yacht charter management, made <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW</a> an attractive choice.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295833/image/large-79d02c5f8027010459659bc9f333cab3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295833">Could you discuss some of the recent trends in new-build sales within the yachting market?In recent years, specifically the last four, there has been a noticeable upward shift in the size of yachts that new clients are choosing for their first purchase. A decade or more ago, it was rare for individuals to start with yachts as large as 50-metres; such an investment was typically made by only a handful of buyers. Nowadays, however, it's increasingly common for new entrants to the market to opt for yachts in the 40 to 50-metre range as their initial acquisition. Instead of beginning with smaller 80-footers, many are directly stepping into the superyacht category from the start.It's crucial for new clients entering the superyacht market to receive proper guidance and accurate information throughout their purchasing journey. Experienced professionals should be readily available to provide this support, ensuring clients receive advice that steers them correctly at every stage. Our reputation for working effectively with clients positions us well to guide them, emphasising the importance of assembling the right team for each project, whether it be a new-build, refit, or straight forward brokerage.&nbsp;A successful new-build project revolves around building a team tailored to the client's needs, including the selection of the right project manager, designer, and other key personnel. It's essential to ensure compatibility within this team; if any team member does not align well with the client, adjustments must be made to ensure a cohesive and harmonious working relationship. Ultimately, the goal is to adjust the 'pieces of the jigsaw' to ensure a fit and a successful project outcome.Since joining this team, I've been involved in numerous new-build projects, each requiring a unique approach in terms of project management and surveying to best fit the client's needs. This adaptability is crucial in our line of work; it's essential to tailor our approach to suit clients from different backgrounds—whether they're from America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, or Australia, each client's preferences and approaches are distinct.Moreover, a key part of our job is to deeply understand what each client truly desires, recognising that while many may think they know what they want, their visions and requirements can evolve. This diversity in client expectations necessitates a flexible approach, allowing us to effectively guide them through their unique journey. My experience working across various global markets has honed my ability to adapt and assist clients in realising their visions. While there are technical aspects of yacht building that remain constant, the ability to adjust our strategy to match each client's specific needs is invaluable.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/286576/image/large-c226b98a874f2d82f28d5932f8c152e3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/286576">What advice would you offer to individuals aspiring to pursue a career as yacht brokers?Yacht brokerage is not an easy career. It relies heavily on relationships built over time, along with connections and experience. It's important to note that most brokerage houses do not offer salaried positions, so success in this field is directly tied to one's ability to broker deals. From my perspective, the most effective strategy for those aspiring to enter yacht brokerage is to first gain a solid foundation within the yachting industry. Understanding the industry thoroughly is crucial before making the transition into brokerage.Making the decision to transition into yacht brokerage was challenging for me due to the high risks involved. Despite my extensive involvement in yacht sales and the strong relationships I had developed, the move still presented significant uncertainties.&nbsp;Throughout the year, I receive numerous inquiries from individuals eager to break into the yacht brokerage field. My immediate question to them is about their experience. It is important to have individuals who are not only well-versed and knowledgeable &nbsp;but also have a solid foundation perhaps through a technical career path, yacht captaincy or similar. However, it's critical to understand that not every captain is inherently suited to be a successful yacht broker, you also have to have the instincts to make a deal happen!&nbsp;Prior to my brokerage career, I had already developed valuable relationships with lawyers, surveyors, captains, suppliers, and established a substantial global network. Many approach yacht brokerage with enthusiasm, drawn by its perceived glamour, yet lack a deep understanding of the industry's complexities.In discussions with lawyers and industry experts, a common concern arises about brokers who fail to ask the pertinent, deep-diving questions. While the industry does include many proficient brokers, a considerable number, in my view, lack the broad, in-depth understanding required to adeptly navigate this complex field. We all want our buyers to remain in the industry for years to come, so ensuring they are guided correctly from the start and you continue to maintain relationships after the deal is done is imperative to us all.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/216015/image/large-51c2a4c428af62f53e8ae211f4076204.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/216015">

In Conversation with James Hall: "Client-tailored teams are key to a successful new-build project"

SuperYacht Times sat down with James to delve into his decision to join TWW Yachts, and to discuss current trends in the market.

Last September, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a>’s Chuck Cashman announced that after “one of the most extensive worldwide searches ever” Anders Kurtén, the man who had helmed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic Yachts</a>’ major strategic turnaround, had been appointed CEO of historic brokerage house <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>. With an extensive and diverse background within the yacht building and supply manufacturing sectors, Anders has been tasked with delivering even greater growth to the firm, and to turn his expertise to further development of the client and support services of the company. In an industry first, we sat down with Anders to get his insight into the new role, his ambitions for the company and to understand why he thinks <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> is on path for industry domination. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/283808/image/large-fe7db8662b860182e29b86e4c4d2716a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/283808">You bring an extensive amount of marine and management knowledge to&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>, what encouraged you to make the transition from builder to brokerage? I’ve been working in the sector for 20 years, with yards, builders and suppliers, and it felt like the right time to try something new, and while brokerage is relatively new to me, professional client services are not. I was also looking for a new opportunity to expand the scope of the business I was working within. A composite super sailing yacht builder, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic</a> is in a niche within a niche, so the market we operated within was extremely limited, in fact much of my focus was on the growth of the refit facility in Palma de Mallorca. That was a portion of the business that had more clients, with a bigger addressable market in terms of number of clients, more annual transactions and from a business management perspective, there was more exciting potential without being hamstrung by the limitations of the market share. &nbsp;When the opportunity at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> arose I saw the potential of greater growth opportunities, which was very exciting for me on my personal journey. In addition, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> has always represented the gold standard and I had already built a good collaboration with a number of brokers during my time at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic</a>, so I knew the culture and values before I considered the role. In that sense, it was an easy decision. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/305224/image/large-b377a7dcad32e96b236042528035f093.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/305224">So part of your decision was linked to the ethos and vision of the company? Absolutely, when you have as many decades in professional life as I have, you come to realise that it is great if you get to work in an industry that you enjoy and are passionate about, and its wonderful if you can relate to the products or services you offer, but that ultimately it is the people that are the most important aspect. If I have ever had any major professional success, it has always been attributed to the team around me, it is never a solo ‘rockstar’ effort.&nbsp;Can you share some of your main priorities for the coming year?&nbsp; Aside from world domination? As I mentioned, people are going to be a big focus for us over the coming year but I truly believe that the way to greatness in any business is to focus on and tweak those elements that the business already exceeds in.&nbsp;The service industry is, by and large, about a series of interactions and transactions. At <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> we need to continue hone in on and excel in those fields that the company is renowned for; putting the client’s interests first and focusing on the basics of ethics, integrity, transparency and honesty that have got us to where we are today.&nbsp;We exist within a competitive market, but Fraser is exceedingly well positioned in certain key areas. Specifically the integrated offering of all brokerage and charter expertise, our Project Management and Yacht Management with over 120 yachts under our management from 24 metres to over 100 metres, an excellent crew recruitment network and now all the incredible client benefits we are able to offer as a result of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a> acquisition of IGY with it’s unparalleled worldwide marina infrastructure. &nbsp;More recently, our acquisition of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4968" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser Yachts Greece (Company)">Atalanta Golden Yachts</a> really reinforces our presence in that highly vibrant market. We now offer clients direct access to the highest valued Greek charter fleet in the world, managed by a team that have been trusted and respected for over 17 years in Greece and worldwide. Together this creates an enhanced suite of integrated services that is very attractive for clients especially as they become increasingly younger.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/305314/image/large-1764f7e85321fc376560a54517e57cdf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/305314">How do you and the team plan to dominate that younger, and new owner, market? I see this integrated service as being pivotal for these new owners and charterers. 30 percent of our buyers today are first time buyers, which 15 years ago would have been closer to 10 percent. These clients need a different type of broker/manager interaction because they are no longer entering the market with a 24 metre yacht and gradually over decades increasing the vessel size, they are entering the market for the first time within the superyacht segment. This means that they often don't have the historic understanding and experience with the challenges and intricacies of yacht ownership and therefore they need an experienced hand to guide them.Fraser has all the competencies and expertise in house on a worldwide level and our focus is to continue to sell the story of life on the water and make sure that the client experience is world-class every time. At the end of the day, our entire industry is based around what yachts can offer; personal freedom, time spent with family and unique experiences, it is our job to ensure those offerings are met and exceeded.&nbsp;You’ve recently completed an extensive tour of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4968" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser Yachts Greece (Company)">Fraser</a>’s global offices, how do you plan to keep your finger on the pulse of this international business? We currently have over 220 specialists at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>, which by headcount is actually around the same as what we had at Baltic during my time there. The difference of course, is that at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic</a> we were operating under one roof, whereas <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> has 20 global locations and counting. I have always described my management style as ‘management by walking around’, which may now need to be revised to ‘management by flying around’, but the concept is the same, I intend to visit all of our teams and to check in with them whenever possible.&nbsp;I will mainly be splitting my time between our two key worldwide headquarters, in Monaco and Fort Lauderdale. &nbsp;What do you see as&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>’s biggest strengths now that you’ve spent some time getting into the details of the company? I started this job on the first day of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/182" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2023">Monaco Yacht Show 2023</a>, which in a way was fantastic as I had the opportunity to walk around and talk to people without a full schedule. One consistent piece of feedback I received was that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> has really, really good people. I knew this too by reputation, but to hear it from so many industry peers really affirmed my own belief. I’ve now had the chance to confirm that the common denominator among the staff is the quality of professionalism and the imbued values that are shared across the board. The heritage of the company and the brand are also great strengths and having a story to tell is important, but these things only have true value if they are echoed in today’s business, which I am confident they are.&nbsp;What was your impression of working for a company owned by an American titan like&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a>? I see that as a great asset. The business culture is very different to Europe and the teams drive hard to get results, but they are very focused on people at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a> and I deeply share that value. It also comes with the benefit of impressive support, both financially and from the business growth perspective and very much so from a Martech and Deep Data client support and communication perspective.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a> has allowed and encouraged <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> to retain and nurture its individual identity, which is important for its employees and its clients. In my opinion, as the world’s longest serving full-service brokerage house today, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>’s historic legacy combined with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MarineMax (Company)">MarineMax</a>’s longstanding American drive is a winning combination, arguably making <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>, and the teams behind it, more relevant and relied upon than ever before in its 77-year history. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265731/image/large-9384651b02a3c3b8b113c3d33254dc31.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265731">You’ve joined the company during a period of market change, how do you plan to keep the brokerage house on its successful streak of recent years? I am used to a universe where there are 12 potential bid contracts on an annual basis - competition and a challenging market is nothing new to me. And despite what changes we might be seeing, I am confident that this is a market rife with opportunity.&nbsp;I believe that part of the reason I was the successful candidate for this position is that I have had a diversity of roles and breadth of experience, and have helped companies through potentially challenging markets and dynamics. When I joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic</a> it was a case of pure financial turnaround, which we managed reasonably well, despite facing the additional challenges of the pandemic and subsequent supply chain delays. I firmly believe that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4968" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser Yachts Greece (Company)">Fraser</a> is in a positive position of strength and I look forward to supporting its growth with the experience and business development knowledge I have gained over the past two decades.You’ve reiterated that people are important to you, how do you create an environment for the team to thrive?&nbsp; I have been fortunate to work with exceptional individuals in my recent roles, and while I don't take full credit for our successes, I find that I am able to ready people and cater to their particular needs to enable them to succeed. I have always been curious about what makes people tick and sometimes, in jest, I say I have an amateur degree in kitchen psychology, because it's necessary to understand people in this type of role. We are managing individuals, with egos and ambitions, who can perform exceptionally well when managed or badly when mismanaged.&nbsp;I believe that I bring a level of cultural heritage from my Nordic upbringing, where we have quite an egalitarian perspective to business. Listening to our employees enables us to create an environment where they feel their voices are heard, and where they feel collaborative in the decision making process, rather than dictated to.&nbsp;I am kind of a glass half full kind of person because I find that being a pathological optimist is a great asset in this industry. So I tend to try to look on the bright side of things and with every challenge also, at the same time, if you read the situation right, there comes an opportunity.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/305225/image/large-7c151b5c8fe7498063044413c83d2c8f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/305225">Finally, you’ve previously told SYT that you’re an avid yachtsman, do you hope to continue sailing despite your new role? I was really raised sailing, so boating isn't really a hobby for me, it's part of the fabric of normal life, so I will definitely continue that in our new home base of Monaco. We have our place in Finland with a boat and as soon as I can secure a mooring here on the Riviera we will get a small boat, as my family loves to spend time on the water as well.&nbsp;Anders Kurtén will be attending <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 International Boat Show 2024</a> next week for those looking to get in contact with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> CEO.&nbsp;

In conversation with Fraser CEO Anders Kurtén

We sat down with Fraser Yachts' new CEO Anders Kurtén in an industry first interview.

Industry exclusive: CEO Anders Kurtén on Fraser’s path to domination

With nearly three decades of experience in the yacht brokerage industry, Sean Fenniman has established himself as a leading figure, earning the title of Consistent Top Producing Broker for over 10 consecutive years at Allied Marine. He has successfully orchestrated high-profile deals, including the sale of a 42-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a>, the 37-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9345" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jules37.04m (121'6&quot;)Custom Line2022">Jules</a>, and the 40-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/363" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Riva S.p.A. (Company)">Riva</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9003" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Janus Navem40.0m (131'3&quot;)Riva S.p.A.2022">Janus Navem</a>, among others.<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> recently had the opportunity to sit down with Sean to delve into his journey within the industry. During our conversation, Sean shared insights on his initial foray into yacht brokerage, his perspective on the industry's evolution, and how his experiences have shaped his successful career.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303913/image/large-0b27c01b96b9ae859f3bb2d0d4e2d4c6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303913">What inspired your career choice in the yachting industry, and could you share insights into the journey that led you to this point?I grew up in Stuart, Florida, a small town renowned for its custom sportfishing boats. My father was involved with a local boat builder, immersing me in boatyards from a young age, where I watched cold moulded boats being built. This early exposure sparked my interest in marine life, leading me to become a marine biologist at the University of Florida, where I spent extensive time on research vessels.Afterwards, I had the opportunity to work on the first all-aluminium <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> motor yacht, the 25.91-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10724" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Impetuous25.91m (85'0&quot;)Feadship1977">Impetuous</a>. This role took me on an extensive year-and-a-half journey.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/186942/image/large-16d2a7a22eae4f1dddd739fd4a37ff99.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/186942">After selling one of my bosses’ yachts, this sequence of events led to a pivotal moment in my career. A principal at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Allied Marine (Company)">Allied Marine</a>, became the unintentional catalyst for my career change. Seeking a new position, I approached him for another captaincy role, after having been a travelling captain for about a year and a half. During this period, my relationship with my then-girlfriend, now my wife of 25 years, had deepened significantly. He offered a perspective I hadn't considered, suggesting, “Why not try selling yachts instead of running them for a while? It could allow you to spend more time at home with your lovely bride-to-be”. This advice prompted the shift to yacht brokerage, setting the stage for the rest of my career.What unique skills or experiences do you believe have contributed to your success in yacht brokerage?Reflecting on the beginnings of my career, I consider myself fortunate to have been immersed in a challenging yet enriching environment at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Allied Marine (Company)">Allied Marine</a> in Fort Lauderdale during the mid to late 1990s. Starting out, I had the privilege of working alongside the who’s who of the industry at the time such as John Weller, Jon Burkard, Roy and Walter Sea, and Jim McConville.&nbsp;Working as a junior broker alongside such knowledgeable industry experts offered me a unique insight into yacht brokerage. Over the past 28 years with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Allied Marine (Company)">Allied Marine</a>, my client base has significantly expanded. One of my clients, for whom I initially sold a 26-foot Regulator, now owns a 37-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a>, and is planning to upgrade to a 50-metre yacht. Additionally, I have several clients to whom I've sold upwards of 20 yachts, and they insist on involving me in all their transactions. This trust stems from my commitment to transparency and prioritising their interests above my own, ensuring that their needs are always at the forefront of any decision.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235582/image/large-9f7006964eb379a90fb07a3da8dbc91b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235582">What are some key trends or changes you have observed in the yachting industry, and how do you envision its evolution in the future?The rise of social media in marketing stands out. It's intriguing to see individuals, sometimes with limited yachting knowledge, generating leads through digital platforms. Yet, I've always believed that our industry thrives on relationships. Trust and transparency with clients is what really matters. While digital strategies may bring occasional deals, lasting success is built on enduring relationships. Despite the digital shift, the essence of our business remains the same: it's all about the trust and connections we establish with our clients.How does&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Allied Marine (Company)">Allied Marine</a>&nbsp;differentiate itself in the competitive yacht brokerage market? Established in 1945, our longevity speaks to a legacy of trust. We adhere to ethical standards that, in my view, surpass those of many competitors within the Florida brokerage industry. Our team consists of seasoned and mature brokers who, while not the most internet-savvy in terms of social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok, prioritise maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of our clients above all else.We believe that a yacht should be a sanctuary for owners to create lasting memories with friends and family, away from the public eye. This philosophy extends beyond just a business model; it reflects my personal lifestyle as well. I spend approximately 60 days each summer living on my boat with my wife and three daughters. These experiences have not only strengthened our family bond but have also provided my children with a broader perspective on life. They've witnessed the diverse cultures and lifestyles from Haiti and Central and South America, the pristine waters of the Exumas, and the opulence of Harbour Island, Atlantis, the South of France, and Capri. Travel, especially by yacht, offers unparalleled insights into the world, affording a unique perspective on how others live.Do you have any advice for individuals aspiring to become yacht brokers?Yacht brokerage offers a fulfilling and enjoyable career path, where you not only get to work with a diverse array of clients, but also build lasting relationships with them. These relationships are based on trust and mutual respect, allowing for open communication at any hour. The essence of yacht brokerage lies in the joy of connecting with people, understanding their needs, and assisting them in finding the perfect yacht. It's about seeing the best in everyone and sharing in the excitement and satisfaction of a day spent on the water or the journey of finding the right boat.&nbsp;Over my 28-year career, I've found great joy in this profession, cultivating relationships with my clients, as they become more successful and yachting becomes an integral part of their lives, they often seek to upgrade to newer, larger, and better yachts. This journey allows me not only to help them realise their yachting dreams but also to earn a living in the process.On a personal note, if you could purchase a yacht which would you choose and why?If given the opportunity to purchase a yacht, my choice would be a 54-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/363" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Riva S.p.A. (Company)">Riva</a>. The primary reason for this selection is my admiration for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/366" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Officina Italiana Design (Mauro Micheli) (Company)">Mauro Micheli</a>'s design, which I find perfectly suited for cruising in the Bahamas, thanks to its shallow draft. Such a yacht would be an exceptional vessel for summer voyages in the Exumas, offering the ideal blend of elegance and functionality.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260187/image/large-868d2ae4accbc207a4324c3e0115a63b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260187">Key features that stand out to me in a yacht include the modern open beach clubs, complete with fold-down wings and a sizeable pool just steps from the water. These elements have become quintessential for enhancing the onboard experience, making it a vibrant and inviting space for guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260189/image/large-71c6686afce1b73416c34d82553beefa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260189">Additionally, I value a spacious sky lounge, a well-appointed on-deck master suite, and the aesthetic of having tenders out of sight. These preferences align with my desire for both luxury and practicality, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable yachting experience.

In conversation with Sean Fenniman: “Trust and transparency with clients is what really matters”

With nearly three decades of experience in the yacht brokerage industry, Sean has established himself as a leading figure at Allied Marine.

Today the brokerage house <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a> has announced the appointment of Chris Andreason as the firm’s Director of Yacht Management. With a diverse marine background that began in the Navy at the age of 16, Chris has developed from officer to superyacht captain, to build captain and finally build project manager. As a result, Chris is due to bring a wealth of experience to the brokerage house, in addition to a passion for mentorship that he will now turn to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a> team. We sat down with Chris ahead of his appointment, to get an insight into how he intends to develop the yacht management department of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a>, and to understand what has driven him to take on this next challenge.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303875/image/large-b98057736855f7bd1d54784bac5f3f5c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303875">Can you share a bit of your professional background and what initially drew you to the marine sector?I was born in Portsmouth and grew up watching the ships come and go. From a very young age I knew I wanted to work at sea, and it was a toss up between the Royal Marines and Royal Navy. In the end only the Navy was recruiting when I signed up at 16, so I joined up as a Junior Seaman. Fortunately I played a lot of rugby and that brought me to the attention of the right people, who pulled me out and sent me to Dartmouth to train as an officer.&nbsp;I spent 10 years in the Navy, and then just as I was thinking about leaving I saw an article about Robert Maxwell’s mysterious death aboard Lady Ghislaine (58-metre Amels yacht now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dancing Hare57.7m (189'4&quot;)Amels1986">Dancing Hare</a>). Immediately I thought, ‘I wonder who drives those things’ and that was really a trigger point for me. At the same time Peter Bennett had put an ad in Navy News advertising <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bluewater Yachting (Company)">Bluewater</a> as a crew agent and I was one of his first captains. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220869/image/large-e703edcfb3229dfc5628be99d2f125c6.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220869">Since then you have been captain, refit and new-build captain and project manager. How did you take on each of those experiences and build your portfolio of projects?I think you have to work your way up through the system, much like in the Navy, and if you are proactive and eager to learn, those experiences build your capabilities and reputation. I have been fortunate to work on three new-build projects, two at <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/1502" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fountainhead87.78m (287'12&quot;)Feadship2011">Fountainhead</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/285" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nectar65.2m (213'11&quot;)Feadship2006">Callisto</a>), and one at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/44" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeking & Rasmussen (Company)">Abeking</a> (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4094" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Grace81.0m (265'9&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2014">Grace</a>). Before <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/285" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nectar65.2m (213'11&quot;)Feadship2006">Callisto</a>, I’d managed the five year refit of the first Solemates (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ostar52.0m (170'7&quot;)Feadship1998">Ostar</a>) and that taught me a huge amount about project management, the yard and what yards and crew needed during those periods.&nbsp;In fact, my interview for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/285" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nectar65.2m (213'11&quot;)Feadship2006">Callisto</a> new-build captaincy, not that I knew it was an interview at the time, was a one-month charter aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ostar52.0m (170'7&quot;)Feadship1998">Solemates</a>. You build those capabilities over time and as you get older, you begin to think ‘what's next?’<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/236129/image/large-f326a71dd7e52019806d329233790122.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/236129"> What was the moment you decided to move shoreside?I never wanted to be the old captain competing with, and diminishing, younger crew, I always wanted to be part of the generation that helps, encourages and empowers the next generation. I decided to take on relief work and that ended up being a really interesting period, because you see the best and the worst in terms of yacht management, crew challenges and resolution. Sometimes you have to roll your sleeves up and work out how to make a situation better for the crew and owner and it became my goal to leave a positive impact. Many of those young officers have gone on to become chief officers and superyacht captains and I am proud that I’m still in touch with a large number who continue to reach out to me for advice. Helping those crew develop and ensuring that they don't fall into the holes I did has become a real driver for me and is something I really look forward to bringing to this role at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a>.&nbsp;Mentorship is clearly a big passion of yours, how do you plan to bring this to your next role?I was incredibly lucky throughout my career in the Navy and in yachting, to receive great support from some great individuals, and those people really shaped my career. Not everyone has that fortune, but I think we have a responsibility to offer those opportunities. In my early conversations with Alex Holden of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a>, we talked a lot about the leadership and mentorship experience I've developed over recent years – such as my monthly webinars with BZ Maritime Leadership where I open up candid conversations with 30-40 captains and give them a safe space to discuss their concerns and experiences.What I have realised is that many of the issues captains experience are shared, and it is likely that I myself have experienced them during my career. Helping others to overcome those problems and challenges is really what makes me tick and Alex really picked up on that during our conversations. It is certainly a big part of what we want to bring into <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a>’s Yacht Management department.What, for you, are the key skill sets that successful yacht managers need and how do you plan to&nbsp;help them develop those skills?It is the responsibility of the yacht management team to support the owners and captains with the right level of operational, technical, financial and administrative knowledge. The management of a superyacht is not a one person job, and successful management requires a team of experts working together. We will ensure that anyone working with our owners and brokers has a strong technical and maritime background with the right training to properly advise their crew. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a> yacht management department already has a number of very experienced team members. We will be the ones to set the scene and inspire confidence in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a> team for the client, and then the yacht managers have that thorough knowledge to back up the technical crew and those who are working with captains and crew day-to-day.I think it’s important to note that I am not suddenly going to become the captains’ champion. Of course, I will be the captain’s champion, provided that they are working professionally and being reasonable in the demands that they make of the management teams. What I hope to bring to the table is the ability to understand and articulate the challenges that captains face, in order to resolve them in a more structured way, which is better for the crew and better for the owner.&nbsp;Were you already familiar with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a>&nbsp;and why did you decide to work with them?&nbsp;Interestingly, in all my years in the industry, I have never worked with Edmiston and in a way, that made the decision very easy for me because I had no preconceived notions about the firm and no favours to call in. Over the years I have been approached by other brokerage houses for similar roles, but It was never the right time for me to step away from a life, at least partially, onboard. When I was approached about this role, I was prepared to go 100 percent for the position because I had no agenda and because they seem to share my passion and ethics for building a strong and educated team.&nbsp;What are you most looking forward to within this role, and is there anything you feel will be particularly challenging?All the things that make me tick align with E<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">dmiston</a>’s company mentality. They are committed to crew welfare, the leadership and mentoring of the team and to be a part of an organisation that is determined to be a force for good within that is very important to me. Having a platform to address the challenges that people face within this sector is very exciting. I also think that the talent pool that comes into yachting is very small when compared to other sectors, and so we have a responsibility to strengthen the skills and abilities of those people who choose yachting as their career.&nbsp;I firmly believe that as an industry we expect too little from people when it comes to training, and that the baseline of safety standards are too low, with yachts and crew expected to meet only the minimum requirements. We should be working to the highest standards, but bringing that to the table is going to be a challenge. I am not looking to break the wheel, but I believe there are others out there with a similar mindset who are willing to do things differently, and I am excited that Edmiston sees the potential.&nbsp;

Chris Andreason of Edmiston interview

Interview with Chris Andreason, Edmiston's Director of Yacht Management.

Exclusive: Chris Andreason on his new role as Director of Yacht Management at Edmiston

Massimo Casoni, the newly appointed General Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>, brings to his role a comprehensive array of experiences spanning various industries. His professional journey has included serving as a naval officer, as well as assuming pivotal roles within several international industrial groups. His tenure in the automotive sector included positions with renowned brands such as Ferrari and Maserati. Furthermore, he contributed significantly to the wellness industry through his eight-year tenure as Chief Operating Officer at Technogym Group.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/285382/image/large-51c7bd280e1b3e2647d98a967984d678.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/285382">In his role at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>, Casoni is tasked with spearheading initiatives focused on new product development and enhancing the operational efficiencies of the shipyards located in Livorno and Viareggio. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> spoke with Massimo Casoni during the 24th edition of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti Yachtmaster - 2024 - 24">Benetti Yachtmaster event</a>, aiming to delve into his multifaceted background, his transition into the yachting industry, and to gain insights into the latest developments at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>.What inspired your career shift into the yachting industry?My move to the yachting industry represents a natural progression, building on my foundational experiences in luxury automotive and wellness sectors. Ferrari, Technogym, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>, despite their diverse markets, are united by a commitment to Italian heritage, luxury, innovation, and design. These principles have guided my career, leading me through roles that focused on product development, customer engagement, and leveraging digital platforms to enhance the customer experience.&nbsp;At Ferrari, my focus was on manufacturing excellence and innovative product development. At Technogym, I delved into understanding customer needs, developing comprehensive service offerings, and embracing digital strategies to maintain a direct, end-to-end customer relationship. This approach underscored the importance of direct engagement and the value it adds, supporting a premium pricing model. These experiences, underpinned by the strength of Italian branding and entrepreneurship, have seamlessly led me to the yachting industry. The allure of yachting, coupled with my background, made this transition not just logical but a compelling next step in my career.Could you share how your previous skills and experiences gained are influencing your approach in your role at the&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Azimut-Benetti Group</a>?In my previous roles, I developed expertise primarily in two critical areas: industrial operations—including procurement, manufacturing, and quality control—and product development. These competencies are highly adaptable to the yachting sector, where I see a substantial opportunity to contribute to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>'s success.&nbsp;The automotive and technology sectors follow a structured approach to cost control and process optimisation, principles that are directly applicable to yacht building. Nevertheless, the unique characteristics of our products, such as lower production volumes and bespoke construction, necessitate tailored adjustments.&nbsp;Customer engagement in yachting transcends the conventional sales transaction typical in the automotive industry, demanding a deeper, ongoing relationship with clients. This requires a sophisticated approach to customer service and contract management, ensuring that each yacht embodies the brand's heritage and exemplifies unmatched craftsmanship.&nbsp;Furthermore, the product development process shares similarities with yacht construction, including ideation, feasibility, and development stages, albeit with necessary adaptations for production scale. A significant area for innovation in yachting is digital technology integration. The sector is gradually embracing IoT and smart technologies, enhancing management efficiency for captains and crews. Emphasising AI's potential, we can foresee benefits such as system monitoring and proactive maintenance, ultimately contributing to sustainability and optimising operational performance.Could you elaborate on the&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>&nbsp;Service Network?The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> Service Network is engineered to deliver bespoke services to our clients, particularly during the warranty period, which ranges from one to three years. Initially centred in Livorno and Viareggio, the network is built on a foundation of personalisation, ensuring each yacht benefits from a dedicated service manager. This manager is accessible around the clock, serving as the primary liaison for the captain and coordinating all necessary tasks to address any issues promptly.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/52035/image/large-047c6bb6bc4f41f2de6928d8061bea99.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/52035">Our vision extends beyond Italy, aiming to establish a global network of shipyards, or 'service points,' accredited by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>. These points are selected based on strict criteria, including their proven expertise with specific yacht types, direct supplier relationships, and a program manager system for process coordination. Furthermore, their client engagement must reflect <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>'s high standards. We have already identified partners in the Mediterranean and the East Coast of the United States and are looking towards expansion in the Far East. This strategic network is designed to maintain our exemplary warranty and after-sales service standards, particularly for yachts over 50-metres, which are predominantly serviced in Livorno.Owners and captains value the involvement of the yacht’s original designers and builders in warranty services, given the bespoke nature of our yachts. Our approach merges centralised program management from the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> team in Livorno with localised service at selected shipyards. These local sites, such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/243" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rybovich Shipyards (Company)">Rybovich</a> on the East Coast in Fort Lauderdale, provide support without assuming full project control, under the direct management of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>'s service managers. They facilitate space leasing, contractor coordination and task identification, ensuring <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>’s standards are upheld worldwide.This model addresses the logistical challenges faced by yachts transitioning between seasons and locations, offering seamless service continuity without the need for yachts to return to the Mediterranean, thus catering to the unique needs of our clientele, especially for larger vessels where we prefer servicing in Livorno.Can you discuss the strategy behind&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Azimut-Benetti Group</a>'s customer engagement and after-sales service?The approach we've adopted at the<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">&nbsp;Azimut-Benetti Group</a> represents a paradigm shift in customer engagement and after-sales service. Recognising the necessity of extending our relationship with clients beyond the warranty period, we've established a dedicated department. This unit is not only focused on ensuring customer satisfaction up until delivery but also explores avenues such as offering tailor-made spare parts packages and extended warranties. Additionally, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a>, a member of our group, specialises in refit services, positioning it as the ideal custodian for yachts post-warranty.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/22459/image/large-a19e34114e247835595a865aa5cff064.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/22459">This strategy signals a departure from traditional practices, adopting a modern, trend-aligned service model. A key component of this model is 'Peace of Mind' for yacht owners, particularly newcomers to the boating world who may not fully grasp the value of their investment beyond the warranty period. We view a yacht not merely as a product but as an enduring asset that requires comprehensive management from inception to end-of-life.Our vision extends to constructing a suite of services that supports the yacht owner throughout the entirety of their ownership journey. This ambition requires a nuanced understanding of the existing market landscape, notably the role of brokerage firms, and how we, as the parent shipyard, can innovatively integrate into this ecosystem. The aim is to foster a continuous relationship with our clients, thereby enhancing the potential for monetisation across the yacht's lifecycle. These services not only promise a different margin compared to the initial sale but also underscore our commitment to vertical integration as a strategic priority over acquisitions.&nbsp;By focusing on adding value through integrated services rather than expanding through new acquisitions, we're poised to redefine the yacht ownership experience, ensuring our clients benefit from unparalleled support and service, by providing a dedicated service manager for each yacht, always traceable, who will become a direct point of contact for the crew and the owner.If you could own any model yacht from the&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Azimut-Benetti Group</a>&nbsp;which one would it be and why?&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303603/image/large-1493fe792967ebf5f05d4ff53cc8f8eb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303603">I would choose the B.Yond 55 model, with its exterior designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lobanov Design (Company)">Lobanov Design</a>. This yacht combines the best elements of both worlds. As an explorer yacht, it's not only expansive but also equipped with a variety of amenities for enjoyment. The interior design stands out for its clean, simple yet elegant aesthetic. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lobanov Design (Company)">Lobanov</a>'s exterior design is particularly striking, featuring bold, defined lines that add an element of excitement and distinction. For me, this model embodies a perfect balance of functionality and style. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/288177/image/large-b964ea8d969a0728a2e44183f7501291.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/288177">

In conversation with Massimo Casoni: From luxury automotive to the Azimut-Benetti Group

SuperYacht Times spoke with Massimo Casoni, the newly appointed General Manager aiming to delve into his multifaceted background.

Over the course of the past two years, a new name has begun to appear in the world of superyacht design. Born in 2020 from the transformation of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">Tillberg Design of Sweden</a> (TDoS), the newly coined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a> has gone on to acquire the Italian superyacht design and architecture <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a> and technical project management and engineering company Thalia Marine. With three established names now under its umbrella, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken</a> is broadening its scope and market presence but, as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Group</a> CEO Stefan Nilsson himself commented, “the yachting industry is still unclear on the concept behind the group.”&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303126/image/large-40a05636ee9d68d6139c887006c99d8d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303126">I met Stefan, whose previous experience ranges from running a rubber factory in Birmingham to a medical equipment manufacturer in South Africa, during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/182" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2023">Monaco Yacht Show 2023</a>. Enthusiastic, approachable and with a formidable background in business, we sat down again this winter to discuss the origins of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a>, his plans for the future expansion of the business and how he and the team led by Antonio Romano of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a>, envision the creation of a “future leader in the superyacht design sector.”Can you share a bit of your varied professional background and how you became involved with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>?My educational background is in Business Administration and Economics and my career began in the financial sector of businesses. A year after graduating, at the age of 26, I took the role of CFO at a Trelleborg factory in Birmingham, UK.&nbsp;From there I moved to South Africa, eventually deciding to return to Sweden a few years later where I was headhunted to assist with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>, which had recently gone through a management buyout and was going through its own set of challenges. Funnily enough, the owners of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> initially thought I was too young for the role, and I thought <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>, with its 15 employees, was too small. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303123/image/large-ea7df536f2c7532ece924827aac7ccb0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303123">But you took the position of CFO and Deputy CEO at&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">Tillberg Design of Sweden&nbsp;(TDoS)</a>, what did the company look like then and how has it changed?Indeed, 10 years have passed since then and the company looks very different from the day I joined. We have been through huge changes, some for the better but also some very hard years. When I joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>, which is primarily a cruise ship design company, it had a small turnover of around €2 million with breakeven results, within three to four years we had 100-plus employees and €10 million-plus in revenue with extremely solid profits.The owners of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>, Karin, Fredrik and Michal, who owned the company at that time, had spent four years from 2010 investing a huge amount of time and money into promotion, attending all the cruise ship events, advertising and making themselves known. So when the boom started, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> was really the name on everyone’s lips. In 2016 I formally took over as CEO and we had huge plans and continued to grow until Covid hit in 2020 and the sector stopped dead. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260361/image/large-f7193258e1cc79f1730c13dd966905e6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260361">Can you share a bit more about the impact of Covid on&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>&nbsp;and how this led to the formation of the Group?It was a horrible time, but at the same time it is the reason that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a> came into existence. The cruise sector is of course, entirely reliant on the tourism industry so there was really no respite during the pandemic, apart from the fact that the cruise ships and yachts in-build continued. We really had to face a scary reality and our decision was to expand <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> in the hope that we could come out of it strongly. It was also during this period that the board of directors, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> now being part owned by a Swedish private equity firm AB Max Sievert, gave me the task of strengthening the offering and appointed me Group CEO &nbsp;– although there was no group at that time.&nbsp;We went from 120 employees down to 45, but with the support of AB Max Sievert, we would not have been able to come through Covid in the way that we did. They gave me the opportunity and freedom to do what I believe was necessary and have allowed us to make investments to expand the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> offering with the acquisition of Talia Marine in 2021 and then <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a> in 2022. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303123/image/large-ea7df536f2c7532ece924827aac7ccb0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303123">What was your initial mindset and direction when you became Group CEO?We realised that interior design would not be enough to sustain the future of the company and so we needed to expand. The low hanging fruit seemed to be naval architecture because at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> we come into the project once the vessel has already been configured, which isn't the ideal situation for design as we are restricted in our creativity and limits the guest experience. That led us to the acquisition of Thalia, who we had already been working with for many years in an advisory capacity in the technical field. They have a fantastic location, in central Trieste, near Fincantieri and the founder Maurizio Eliseo is highly renowned in the sector, both of which made it an attractive choice. We really see Thalia as a technical Swiss army knife, with expertise in quantity surveying, engineering, product management, inspections etc, and they have added those expertise to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>’ offering. On our part, we have been able to invest in that business, structure it to be more efficient and will continue to grow it in the future.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303122/image/large-5245cad0dec04ba334139990aca432f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303122">At this point, the focus then was still very much within the cruise sector, when did the focus turn to yachting?Maurizio and Thalia had clients within yachting and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> had been involved in the yacht segment, producing concepts like Mimer but we quickly realised we needed a catalyst to fast track our existence within the industry. So we started to look for a studio that would align with our business mindset and goals and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a>was the one that really stood out for us. Antonio Romano and Enrico Lumini, the two founders, have a fantastic network, mentality toward their employees and energy, and their expertise is broad with a large portfolio of projects behind them.&nbsp;Frederick and Michael, who still own part of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>, have long admired <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab’</a>s work and everything really clicked into place. Antonio is now Group Commercial Director and he has really helped us navigate towards a full service offering for the superyacht industry.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303120/image/large-f8ea11818b069a12927ef5dd27901fda.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303120"> When it comes to projects, how do the three companies divide responsibility and have they retained independence?The goal of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a> is to strengthen the individual identity of each of the companies, not to dissolve that individuality. Hot Lab is stronger because it can add <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> and Thalia to its offering, and this partnership will hopefully help them in the future when it comes to pitching for larger yacht projects. With its decades of experience, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> has also gained a huge network of partners and specialists, and each brand will be able to benefit from that network, whether or not <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> is involved in the project.&nbsp;We are seeing some demand for projects involving the entire group, but should an owner or representative want to work with only one, that is also fine. The group is opening doors to all of these companies and I fully believe that in 10 years <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a> will be the top design studio of the superyacht industry because it is supported by Thalia and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303119/image/large-63569e260869cabe48abf0f52c03cb65.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303119">As for the future, can we expect further growth, or is this the&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a>&nbsp;for the foreseeable future?If it was done, I would be doing something else by now because it is not in my DNA to settle. 2024 is going to be an exciting year for the group, all of our markets are performing well, but there are a few key positions still to fill and there are certainly other directions that we are looking to. The answer is, watch this space. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303128/image/large-5add417d9673bf4f87847bb529d091f5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303128">This article is featured in&nbsp;Issue 48 of the SuperYacht Times&nbsp;newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe now</a>&nbsp;to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.&nbsp;

An interview with Viken Group CEO Stefan Nilsson 

We sit down with Viken Group CEO Stefan Nilsson to hear the story of yacht design's latest powerhouse. 

"We are building a future leader of the superyacht design sector": Stefan Nilsson of Viken Group

With interior outfitting work of the 80-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA</a> Custom 80m superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12296" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Belita79.32m (260'3&quot;)ISA Yachts2026">Belita</a> having just begun at the Ancona shipyard, her Italy-based builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA Yachts</a> reveals the first images of their vessel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309630/image/large-48f4d8e8bb6de732572fe3ac21215dc7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309630">At a volume of 2,150 GT, this yacht is set to become the shipyard’s new flagship.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309632/image/large-6a9658a520c43612542f5621476e112b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309632">Due to be delivered to her owner in 2026, this <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA Yachts</a> project features an exterior design crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/82" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Espen Øino International (Company)">Espen Øino International</a>, along with interiors courtesy of New York-based studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1107" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Peter Marino (Company)">Peter Marino Architect</a>, while her naval architecture was created in-house by the shipyard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309631/image/large-186cbddba06701e034bfaa22c549ae1f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309631">Moreover, the superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12296" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Belita79.32m (260'3&quot;)ISA Yachts2026">Belita</a> is one out of four current construction projects by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA Yachts</a>-brand, including the 80-metre superyacht from the Gran Turismo series with a delivery date of 2027, along with the two 66-metre yachts for delivery in 2026.&nbsp;

Outfitting begins on ISA Custom 80m superyacht 

With outfitting work of the 80m ISA Custom 80m superyacht Belita having just begun, her Italy-based builder reveals the first images of their vessel. 

ISA Custom 80m superyacht Belita enters her outfitting phase 

The 28.27-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Overmarine Group SPA (Company)">Overmarine</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6098" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bear Market28.27m (92'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2003">Bear Market</a> sold in-house with Laura Verbrugge of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> representing the buyer and seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291468/image/large-05d888fb912f4a148c8cacbc84d58ca5.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291468">Delivered in 2003 by her Italy-based shipyard and having undergone a refit in 2019, this sport boat yacht features an exterior and interior design imagined by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/254" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Stefano Righini Design (Company)">Stefano Righini Design</a>, while her naval architecture was created in-house by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Overmarine Group SPA (Company)">Overmarine</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291480/image/large-0c00cb1195843f0e29c0a06f07a951ee.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291480">At a volume of 130 GT, the Mangusta 92 yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6098" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bear Market28.27m (92'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2003">Bear Market</a> is capable of sleeping up to nine guests across a four stateroom configuration. Additional accommodation is also available for up to four crew members.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291476/image/large-1374ef176afaa705026170927b71eebf.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291476">Unique features of the vessel include her roomy aft deck, optimal for keeping guests entertained, and the lofty, unrestricted open deck layout.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291470/image/large-6e489d5e0ed5e56137b318e5f8608e63.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291470"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291472/image/large-b7111ef497bb23628474b28ef3234318.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291472">Furthermore, she has a GRP hull and superstructure, a 6.6-metre beam, and a shallow draft of 1.74-metre, giving her a sleek and stealthy exterior silhouette.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291473/image/large-a7f8f3bff2458d4374eeac69bb988e78.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291473">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, the yacht can reach a cruising speed of 25 knots alongside a top speed of 36 knots. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291471/image/large-0f068805fa8481534051da2ba749b19e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291471">At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6098" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bear Market28.27m (92'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2003">Bear Market</a>’s last known asking price was €1,100,000. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291467/image/large-7ca606e316625cc035ce5f72350c82cd.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291467">

28m Overmarine yacht Bear Market sold

The 28.27-metre Overmarine motor yacht Bear Market sold in-house with Fraser representing the buyer and seller.  


28m Overmarine motor yacht Bear Market sold in-house 

Following the success of her technical launch, outfitting work of the 49.9-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11786" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti B.Now 50m - FB61549.9m (163'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2025">Benetti B.Now 50M FB615</a> has commenced at the Livorno shipyard.&nbsp;Due to be delivered in the summer of 2025, the superyacht features exterior and interior styling both hailing from the drawing boards of UK-based studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a>, resulting in a sense of cohesion between indoor and outdoor areas of the vessel.&nbsp;Derived from a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, the motor yacht, which is part of the Italy-based builder’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> B.Now 50m series, has a beam of 9.2-metres along with a draft of 2.45-metres. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309628/image/large-d6b31bf7a0ae281b627c8ff6768e9070.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309628">With collaboration between the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a> design team, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>’s project manager, and owner’s representative <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a>, the pioneering <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11786" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti B.Now 50m - FB61549.9m (163'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2025">Benetti B.Now 50M FB615</a> strives to maintain a constant connection to nature through the inclusion of expansive windows.Furthermore, the stern will be lowered to form a terrace by the water’s edge, thanks to the forward thinking Oasis Deck® concept by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>.&nbsp;In terms of her performance, the yacht will be powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines that propel her to a cruising speed of 13.5 knots alongside a top speed of 15 knots.&nbsp;“This new step of the building process marks a crucial phase for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>’s team in the coming months at the Livorno shipyards. The numbers are a tangible demonstration of the success of the B.Now 50M model and this collaboration with the owner’s representative <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a> confirms how solid it is,” said <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> General Manager Massimiliano Casoni of the project.“The beginning of outfitting in Livorno is a significant milestone for this project. We are looking forward to the next stages of construction and the continued collaboration with the owner, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a>,” Edmund Beckett, Senior Partner, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a> New Build Sales commented.&nbsp;

Outfitting starts on Benetti B.Now 50M FB615 superyacht

Following her technical launch, outfitting work of the 49.9-metre superyacht Benetti B.Now 50M FB615 has commenced at the Livorno shipyard. 



Benetti B.Now 50M FB615 superyacht enters outfitting

The 44.27-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2229" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Conrad Yachts (Company)">Conrad</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Extra Time44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2024">Extra Time</a> was christened in preparation for her delivery at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2229" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Conrad Yachts (Company)">Conrad Shipyard</a> facilities in Gdansk, Poland with the SuperYacht Times team present for the event. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309620/image/large-abc2c2ddce00072191a44cae94889796.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309620">Expected to be delivered next week, she is the second hull in the C144S series, and follows in the footsteps of her predecessor <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>, which was delivered last year. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Extra Time44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2024">Extra Time</a> was sold in 2021, with brokers Alex G. Clarke of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a> and Jim Evan of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYachtsMonaco (Company)">SuperYachtsMonaco</a> introducing the buyer.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309617/image/large-bed5b8e5dbd17c15460f4d983e06906b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309617">“It was with great pleasure that we got to attend the christening of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Extra Time44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2024">Extra Time</a>, with not just the owner’s family and friends, but the proud workforce from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2229" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Conrad Yachts (Company)">Conrad Shipyard</a> that are responsible for the craftsmanship onboard,” commented Alex G. Clarke.&nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/59942" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Second 44m Conrad C144 superyacht Extra Time launched (2024-03-14 09:30:00 +0100)">Second 44m Conrad C144 superyacht Extra Time launched</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309625/image/large-b1dea715046c48c3be5622e8e95f5401.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309625">Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/56" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reymond Langton Design Ltd. (Company)">Reymond Langton Design</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Extra Time44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2024">Extra Time</a> features interior design by Italy-based design house <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5407" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="m2atelier (Company)">m2atelier</a>. The interiors of <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> served as inspiration for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Extra Time44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2024">Extra Time</a>, which showcases a seamless blend of elegance and sophistication.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309619/image/large-5e1369783f5f556075449d719acd7aca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309619">The name <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Extra Time44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2024">Extra Time</a> derives from the time the owner plans to spend onboard with their loved ones. As a result of this, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Extra Time44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2024">Extra Time</a> can host up to 12 guests across five sumptuous staterooms, as well as a crew of nine.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/59995" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Onboard 44m Conrad superyacht Extra Time (2024-03-20 10:45:00 +0100)">Onboard 44m Conrad superyacht Extra Time</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Extra Time44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2024"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/305725/image/large-c12534de3dc03b9bcdd024caef3b2699.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/305725"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/305726/image/large-0d252e9a2bb5a813ba3bc4c670ae3f3b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/305726">Extra Time</a> was launched in March 2024, with her sea trials taking place shortly afterwards. “I was lucky enough to be onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Extra Time44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2024">Extra Time</a> beforehand during her sea trials, and the yacht performed above expectations,” added Alex G. Clarke.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/305733/image/large-f68d5b2ab1a569464000e56a98dd9164.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/305733"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/305732/image/large-bef10228999c2bf13054a11c70cd4df5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/305732">Key features onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Extra Time44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2024">Extra Time</a> include a substantial tender garage, beach club aft, and a luxurious Jacuzzi on her expansive sundeck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309622/image/large-b45cd03a09f90f3f37facf0fee1b0e0b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309622">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10866" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Extra Time44.27m (145'3&quot;)Conrad Yachts2024">Extra Time</a> is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines, which allow her to reach a top speed of 14 knots and a range of 5,100 nautical miles. She will spend her first season in the South of France.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309623/image/large-9368643597d78bafe96a891743d7ab64.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309623">“I can confidently state that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2229" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Conrad Yachts (Company)">Conrad Shipyard</a> is building one of the highest quality yachts in this segment of the market in the world. Gdansk, Poland has a special place in my heart and I look forward to coming back as hull three advances in construction and prepares for her delivery next year in 2025,” concluded Alex G. Clarke.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309621/image/large-06a7d82399067a20d8456222b641f8c9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309621">

Second 44m Conrad C144S superyacht Extra Time christened

The 44.27-metre Conrad superyacht Extra Time was christened in preparation for her delivery at the Conrad Shipyard facilities in Gdansk, Poland.

Second 44m Conrad C144S superyacht Extra Time prepares for delivery

The 35.46-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2606" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hye Seas II35.46m (116'4&quot;)Azimut Yachts2007">Hye Seas II</a> is on the market with Della Pearce and Julien Solari of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309594/image/large-8343e16940d4e3f7c0bb6dbc5a5fe4a6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309594">Delivered in 2007 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut Yachts</a> as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a> 116 series, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> features an exterior penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/254" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Stefano Righini Design (Company)">Stefano Righini Design</a>, while her interiors are courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galeazzi Design (Company)">Galeazzi Design</a>, and her naval architecture was designed in-house by her Italy-based builder. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309596/image/large-e31fe04ac283f2b1770b81f8c139bb21.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309596">Across her 248 GT volume, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> is capable of sleeping as many as 12 guests, thanks to her sumptuous five stateroom configuration, consisting of a full-beam master suite, two VIP staterooms, and two double staterooms, all of which boast ensuite bathrooms for additional comfort.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309597/image/large-f8d80246f98b827c0772b5c5e37e23d6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309597">Throughout the interior furnishings, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/hye-seas-ii/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Hye Seas II for sale</a> is embellished with extravagant cherry and rich burlwood in the form of matte textures, juxtaposed with glossy marble accents, for a timeless decor. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309599/image/large-e29e4bf38dfa0d1f71ce7b48cac8bc40.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309599">In terms of entertainment, guests can take advantage of the karaoke room forward on her main deck or hit the water with a tender, given the roomy tender storage found on the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/azimut/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Azimut yacht for sale</a>’s stern.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309598/image/large-17c039fa0bf1d1f8feffd1cb84de1046.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309598">On her exterior deck spaces, the vessel offers a sit-up bar beside a cream-coloured seating arrangement that pave the way for both sunbathing and sun-kissed alfresco dining.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309595/image/large-c50e81bbb347b79c56cc22ee6b6cbfed.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309595">Performance-wise, she is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines that propel her to a cruising speed of 23 knots and an active top speed of 25 knots, making her optimal for blue water exploration.&nbsp;Moreover, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2606" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hye Seas II35.46m (116'4&quot;)Azimut Yachts2007">Hye Seas II</a>’s zero speed stabilisation system means guests can enjoy a smooth, peaceful ride.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/81802/image/large-eb78b98b0790cd849c9a0ca61a46806f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/81802">

35m Azimut yacht Hye Seas II for sale

The 35.46-metre Azimut motor yacht Hye Seas II is on the market with Della Pearce and Julien Solari of Camper & Nicholsons. 



35m Azimut motor yacht Hye Seas II for sale

The Dutch shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2948" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van der Valk Shipyard (Company)">Van der Valk Shipyard</a> has unveiled the details of the 40-metre Project Evo, the yard's largest superyacht to date.&nbsp;Due to be launched in 2026, the construction of the all-aluminium superyacht is now underway.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309610/image/large-20073662842f2c77da1d012b83f5218c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309610">The yacht's original exterior design was completed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7429" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SFG Yacht Design (Company)">SFG Yacht Design</a> and Fancy by Dada, with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/205" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cristiano Gatto Design (Company)">Cristiano Gatto Design</a>, the interior designer, adding new length and angles to Project Evo. The yacht has been commissioned by experienced yacht owners who have previously owned a number of high performance yachts, with this being their first custom yacht project. The team of experts involved in developing the yacht have also included the naval architects from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Diana Yacht Design (Company)">Diana Yacht Design</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/285" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ginton Naval Architects (Company)">Ginton Naval Architects</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309611/image/large-f768e943e5380cb003b929e436021c38.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309611">The owners were inspired by an exceptionally attractive design from Franco Gianni of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7429" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SFG Yacht Design (Company)">SFG Yacht Design</a> and Doga Naz Cebeci from Fancy by Dada. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/205" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cristiano Gatto Design (Company)">Cristiano Gatto Design</a> initially became involved in the project working on the layout and interior style, as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/205" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cristiano Gatto Design (Company)">Gatto</a> explains;“My participation began on a micro level as we worked with the owners to leverage on some specific furniture design concepts I had previously created. They were looking to recreate a similar ambience onboard their yacht and the interior design emerged from this point. Welcoming the results, the owners asked us to add some of this aesthetic flavour to the exterior design, further evolving the DNA of the preliminary concept penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7429" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SFG Yacht Design (Company)">SFG</a> and Fancy by Dada. We changed some of the proportions and lines while extending the stern by around two metres. The overall design and profile, however, remains very much the brainchild of all who have been involved.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309612/image/large-629b2f83a6ad53354d7c70d5a75d65ca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309612">While details of the entirely bespoke interior style are being kept under wraps for now, Gatto says that the owners are delighted with how all their efforts have paid off. “The process from first renders to interior concept took around ten months, an exceptional timeframe for a 40-metre project that will truly deserve to be called a mini-megayacht.” Project Evo will include first-class accommodations for ten, including a master stateroom on the main deck and two twin guest suites and two VIPs on the lower deck. Three ensuite double crew cabins will be located in the forepeak next to the mess, while the captain’s cabin will be situated on the bridge deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309609/image/large-e83e933703ecb5e3921ae448972794c6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309609">“It is clear that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2948" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van der Valk Shipyard (Company)">Van der Valk</a> is one of the few yards in the Netherlands with the capacity and flexibility to build fully custom superyachts in this size range,” concludes head of sales Yoeri Bijker. “This 40-metre beauty is based upon an existing engineered platform that is proven in terms of naval architecture. Project EVO is a fine example of how clients can come to Van der Valk with their own exterior designers without having to reinvent the wheel with a new hull, safe in the knowledge that their yacht will excel in terms of performance, speed and stability.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309608/image/large-41125f829f0e5065639ca3ef5b70d646.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309608">The 370 GT bluewater cruising yacht will feature a round bilged, fast displacement hull and a top speed of 24 knots. Built to ABS class, Project Evo will also be fully compliant with the latest IMO Tier III emissions regulations.

Project Evo yacht by Van der Valk

Construction of Project Evo 40m yacht has now begun at Van der Valk.

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Unveiling the 40m Project Evo: Van der Valk's largest yacht

The 31.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/411" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti Sail Division (Company)">Benetti Sail Division</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1072" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Don Ciro31.5m (103'4&quot;)Benetti Sail Division2002">Don Ciro</a> is for sale with Stuart Flowers of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309507/image/large-f10d1eca2c4328df9bd46cf069163885.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309507">Delivered in 2002 by her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/411" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti Sail Division (Company)">Benetti Sail Division</a> as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/411" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti Sail Division (Company)">Benetti Sail Division</a> 105 series, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/don-ciro/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Don Ciro for sale</a>, previously named Fair Play II, features naval architecture designed in-house by her Italy-based builder. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309503/image/large-7e2512c9b8481577e1e85ea18075d3ec.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309503">With a volume of 196 GT, a beak of 7.2-metres, and a draft of 2.85-metres, this flybridge yacht is capable of hosting up to 10 guests onboard, while separate living quarters can accommodate up to five crew members.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309497/image/large-2afd312e0e227a180e8fa98939aee63d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309497">Marked by a distinctive navy blue hull, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a>’s exterior design is home to an array of opportunities for alfresco dining during either formal or casual meal times, working on one’s tan, or enjoying the salty breeze and sea views with a cocktail in hand. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309494/image/large-1a534e86b66ede1bc0657ef5272d8dc1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309494"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309489/image/large-46c5d56d612156ea471acd7f4b37ad07.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309489"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309490/image/large-0c63f4acc216acad5b075c8dcaa58c69.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309490">Where her indoor spaces are concerned, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a>’s eye-catching saloon balances shades of cream and striking royal blue throughout the homey seating arrangement, where guests can recline in the unique blue leather armchairs as they socialise and admire views through the windows.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309506/image/large-54ff7a54d81d063dd9658ccca54ccee9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309506">In addition, an expansive, intriguing painting serves as the perfect backdrop to a nearby round dining table for guests to enjoy delectable cuisine indoors.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309504/image/large-21cadd8f46c8435f2d73272576df6f65.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309504">Accommodation-wise, the vessel’s five stateroom layout include softly padded headboards, marble ensuite bathrooms ensuring maximal privacy, and stylish bed linen in comforting, monochromatic tones of cream.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309495/image/large-a3d92b6621799f6489412a09fd5d897a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309495"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309496/image/large-19b5e19c5917d37ba0ed129e7633f0bc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309496"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309498/image/large-4b48f43566e8af4096aa2bf1c643fd28.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309498">Regarding the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/benetti-sail-division/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Benetti Sail Division yacht for sale</a>’s performance, she is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines that can reach a cruising speed of 10 knots along with a top speed of 14 knots. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309491/image/large-4d3541cb0717a5933023fa288091e7ec.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309491">

32m Benetti Sail Division yacht Don Ciro for sale

The 31.5-metre Benetti Sail Division motor yacht Don Ciro is for sale with Stuart Flowers of Denison Yachting. 


32m Benetti Sail Division motor yacht Don Ciro joins the market 

Netherlands-based yacht builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> has unveiled the details of a new 81-metre sailing yacht, Noir, which features the ‘world’s tallest sloop rig.’<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309615/image/large-3e2069922dd2150351137611744a5469.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309615">Noir features a contemporary design and reverse bow, with exterior styling and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4373" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design (Company)">Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design</a>. Key features include her generous exterior deck spaces, as well as an extensive use of glazing and folding platforms to ensure guests are connected to the sea.&nbsp;Also known as Project 411, Noir has been designed by a skilled owner and his team. She features the ‘world’s tallest sloop rig’ at 93-metres, and is designed for world cruising and exploration.&nbsp;"The capabilities of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> can be seen in various ways, with no doubt the most important proof point being that we are selected by knowledgeable owners, as the builder for their incredible and unique yachts,” explained CEO Jan Timmerman.Once completed Noir will rank amongst the world’s largest sailing yachts, with her impressive mast height solidifying her as the ‘world’s tallest sloop.’ Her air draft will exceed the current tallest rig by around 4-metres.&nbsp;“We are very pleased to be building again at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a>," said designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4373" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design (Company)">Malcolm McKeon</a>. "Having built our award-winning 59.7-metre sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8258" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sarissa59.7m (195'10&quot;)Royal Huisman2023">Sarissa</a> there, we are well acquainted with the shipyard’s engineering skills, innovations, and the level of craftsmanship.”Details surrounding Noir’s interior are being kept tightly under wraps, with her design developed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7666" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="GCA Architects (Company)">GCA Architects</a> of Barcelona, Spain. The firm is known for their contemporary approach to residential and commercial buildings, including Spain’s first “smart” building and the world’s first platinum-certified LEED structure.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309614/image/large-2324373a3664cb5689f2784568fba023.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309614">Designer Josep Juanpere Miret has promised an interior design that will complement her contemporary exterior, with a mix of woods and other natural materials to add texture, for a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere.The brief for Noir from her experienced owner included speed, power, and responsive handling. She is specifically sized to carry a 14-metre tender, allowing guests to explore further while onboard.&nbsp;Constructed from all-aluminium, her mast, boom, and integrated sailing system will be supplied by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/458" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rondal B.V. (Company)">Rondal</a>. In keeping with her name Noir, all the deck gear and all her windows will be black and she will receive her auxiliary power by electric drives.“I am pleased and humbled that we can highlight <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a>’s 140th year of operation with the announcement of such a significant project. Of the hundreds of vessels our shipyard has delivered in its history, Project 411 will be our fourth yacht in the ranks of world’s top 10 largest sailing yachts,” concluded Jan Timmerman.&nbsp;According to SYT iQ, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> currently has several yachts in-build including the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56650" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="85m New World Sloop: Royal Huisman to start construction of ‘world’s largest sloop’ in 2023 (2022-12-27 13:15:00 +0100)">“world’s largest sloop”, the 85-metre Project 410</a> and the 65.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/59870" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lessons Learned: Building Royal Huisman's 65m Aquarius II (2024-03-27 13:00:00 +0100)">Aquarius II</a>.

Royal Huisman unveils the 81m sailing yacht Noir

Royal Huisman has unveiled the details of a new 81-metre sailing yacht, Noir, which features the ‘world’s tallest sloop rig.’

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Royal Huisman unveils the 81m sailing yacht Noir with the ‘world’s tallest sloop rig’

Italy-based yacht builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a> has announced the launch of the sixth 40.9-metre DOM 133 yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12054" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto DOM 133/0640.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2024">Barbara Anne</a> at the Carrara harbour, in the presence of her owner. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309601/image/large-6c6c602ae51fe52b88b177e72c3cb579.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309601">Also known as hull 10249, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12054" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto DOM 133/0640.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2024">Barbara Anne</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/76" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Vafiadis (Company)">Studio Vafiadis</a>, with naval architecture by her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a>. She was sold in April 2022, with Sean Doyle of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop & Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a> representing the buyer.Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/54953" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Two new Baglietto DOM 133 hulls sold and in-build (2022-04-12 16:45:00 +0200)">Two new Baglietto DOM 133 hulls sold and in-build</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/223344/image/large-ccfc8a143fc045a79819b147373f107e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/223344"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12054" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto DOM 133/0640.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2024">Barbara Anne</a> features a highly customised layout, paired with distinctive contemporary exterior lines inspired by automotive design. According to designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/76" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Vafiadis (Company)">Stefano Vafiadis</a>, DOM stands for Domus, meaning ‘home’ in Latin, with the yacht’s core ideology being that it is a home away from home.Her main saloon benefits from extensive glazing, while floor-to-ceiling windows on her upper deck open onto side balconies, ensuring a closer contact to the sea. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12054" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto DOM 133/0640.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2024">Barbara Anne</a>’s interiors have been penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6293" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leonardo Santi Design (Company)">Leonardo Santi</a>, with unmistakable shades from the automotive industry. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/223347/image/large-f1ff2a0db406e76273553cc30f3198d0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/223347">The interiors of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12054" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto DOM 133/0640.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2024">Barbara Anne</a> are adorned with iconic shades such as Ferrari red, green, and blue and Lamborghini orange, which can be found in her guest staterooms on the lower deck. With an internal volume of 411 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12054" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto DOM 133/0640.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2024">Barbara Anne</a> can sleep up to 10 guests across five staterooms.&nbsp;A warm cream and bronze colour palette and light-shade wood, both smooth and striped, with LED inserts and bronze-coated finishes can be found throughout, creating a contemporary style with refined elegance. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/223346/image/large-e449d7e7d06b16008e6e44a14bf446a0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/223346">Her central staircase, also designed with striped wood and LED inserts, is crowned by a magnificent bespoke chandelier by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5605" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Paolo Castelli (Company)">Paolo Castelli</a>. All furniture, both indoors and outdoors of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12054" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto DOM 133/0640.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2024">Barbara Anne</a> has been designed by Minotti with customised fabrics.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12054" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto DOM 133/0640.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2024">Barbara Anne</a> has been designed with entertainment and relaxation in mind. Her exterior decks include a two deck pool aft, with her logo engraved on the bottom, while her fully-custom sun deck has been specially designed and built for this hull. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/223345/image/large-ddbd4754b3dabc46a9cafe5b433269ca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/223345">Performance-wise, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12054" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto DOM 133/0640.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2024">Barbara Anne</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> C32 engines, allowing her to reach an impressive top speed of 17 knots.&nbsp;According to SYT iQ, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12054" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto DOM 133/0640.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2024">Barbara Anne</a> will join her DOM 133 sisterships, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10957" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perla Bianca40.93m (134'3&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2023">Perla Bianca</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11155" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lee40.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2023">Lee</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11243" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astera40.9m (134'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2024">Astera</a> and Attitude in the water.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309600/image/large-de42dcab268a21c53725fcbb3c109202.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309600">

Sixth Baglietto DOM 133 yacht Barbara Anne launched

Baglietto has announced the launch of the sixth 40.9-metre DOM 133 yacht Barbara Anne at the Carrara harbour, in the presence of her owner.

Sixth 41m Baglietto DOM 133 yacht Barbara Anne launched

Germany-based <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/120" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Drettmann Yachts (Company)">Drettmann Yachts</a> have released the renders of their latest design, the 50-metre superyacht Project B50, which features flexible amenities, perfect for those looking to either relax or stay active in various climates.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309531/image/large-73c1487c4b1efb8fad978fc5d841456a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309531">With a volume of 499 GT, a beam of 9.3-metres and a draft of 2.6-metres, Project B50 can accommodate up to 12 guests across her opulent staterooms, while separate accommodation is also available for as many as nine crew members.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309532/image/large-cff4f6fce6ce41fd2b9a5cd6e8d42942.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309532">&nbsp;A continuous stream of windows and along the sides of B50’s exterior silhouette simultaneously provide an aesthetically pleasing sheen to her outside shape, and allow guests to take in far-reaching views from the comfort of the luxurious vessel. <iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/938541618?share=copy" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe> Beside an outdoor cinema with windbreakers for cosy movie nights, the yacht is decked out with a chic, C-shaped beige sofa, piled with yellow and green embroidered cushions around a coffee table, making it a convivial focal point for socialising.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309533/image/large-399860bc0c5576af428579b07f75063e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309533">Further socialising is also omnipresent throughout the palatial yacht’s design, especially when it comes to outdoor lounge areas for alfresco dining as well as catching some rays, and the eye-catching infinity Jacuzzi located on the forward deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309528/image/large-cea41b93cf59c6aee2b5c66c5d618683.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309528"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309525/image/large-5f624c6b1d2b6c8c0b5f1cdcda789ac0.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309525">Throughout the interior spaces, a warm-toned colour palette, paired with textiles including marble in shades of black and beige, alongside both dark and light wood finishings create a varied, sensory living experience for those onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309524/image/large-7e5f24b5ee9c4fd1d2a1e0f743fceba0.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309524">Moremore, besides boasting an exclusive owner’s deck with a personal Jacuzzi and lounge for a private touch, Project B50’s lavish master stateroom is constructed with 270-degree panoramic views for a constant immersion with the stunning sea backdrop. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309529/image/large-7cd75b644bf631ef5ceb67f7ccf454d9.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309529">Additional immersion with water and surrounding atmosphere can also be had on the 12 square-metre freshwater pool complete with drop-down platforms, which is situated on Project B50’s versatile main-deck aft.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309526/image/large-754c6981af04937cee004e092449e9ad.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309526">Not only that, but guests can also get their blood pumping in the well-appointed gym which is equipped with a drop-down balcony, as well as through water sports, thanks to the superyacht’s side garage that is suitable for storing a 6.2-metre Tender and Jet Ski.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309530/image/large-9084ea945916d35d7cd1ec9141e1cc72.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309530">Performance-wise, Project B50 will have a breezy top speed of 14 knots along with a 4,500 nautical mile range.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309527/image/large-f78fdfdd33149cc6d453c04ee0d62d79.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309527">

50m yacht Project B50 designed by Drettmann Yachts 

Germany-based Drettmann Yachts have released the renders of their latest design, the 50-metre superyacht Project B50. 



Interviews

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