Clear Group International has announced the formal launch of Ports of CauseTM (POC), an innovative philanthropic superyachting enterprise, founded by Joyce Clear of Clear Group International and managed by a Board of Directors. Based as a platform for philanthropy and showcasing superyacht design and the good will of the luxury brand community, POC propels a newly refurbished yacht into the global marketplace as an ambassador of the superyacht community while supporting charities through events and global initiatives. The program is a catalyst for world-class yacht refits that are, to a degree, funded through corporate sponsorships and state-of-the-art product donations. As a result, the yachts operate as global, mobile showcases for excellence in design, innovation, technology and luxury brands. Once a participating POC yacht has completed a refit, the vessel travels to key locations to host Red-Carpet-VIP events to raise funds for charitable initiatives. Currently, the charities benefiting from Ports of CauseTM 2013 are organizations that operate global ocean conservation and clean water programs, including Ecomundi Ventures, Models for Water, International SeaKeepers Society, Plant-a-Fish and others to be announced. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/141692/image/large-2ef7add3aedca5574aeb8864b4faf461.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/141692">The first, and flagship, vessel selected to participate in the program is the renowned classic 116’ motor yacht The Highlander owned by Victor Muller, President of Skyper Cars. The Highlander was launched in 1967 by De Vries, the third Feadship built for the famous entrepreneur, Malcolm Forbes, who used the yacht for business and pleasure, entertaining kings and queens, prime ministers, presidents, business moguls, movie stars, celebrities and visionaries around the world. Victor Muller, Chief Executive Officer of Spyker NV, a Dutch super car manufacturer, has devoted several years and extensive resources to restoring THE HIGHLANDER to her original glory, and is collaborating with Ports of CauseTM in completing a multi-year, keel-up refit and restoration of the iconic vessel. Muller says, “I am delighted to join Joyce and her dedicated team of professionals to support this wonderful program and honored that my yacht will serve as its flagship. Captain Zach Paap and I look forward to welcoming hundreds of like-minded guests aboard to lend their support to Ports of Cause while they attend one of the many exclusive events planned that will raise the level of awareness of ocean advocacy.” Ports of CauseTM will be participating in major global boat shows and its own fundraising events in 2013, starting with the Miami International Boat Show in February, 2013.Clear Group International Joyce Clear +1 203 293 4087 <a href="mailto:jclear@cleargroupintl.com?subject=Article%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">jclear@cleargroupintl.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.cleargroupintl.com/">www.cleargroupintl.com</a>

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Owner Feadship The Highlander comments on Ports of Cause

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268073/image/large-754e017119099ec56c1d705cef91c5c8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268073">For Mr. Paolo D'Amico, the idea of building a yacht for his family was not just a whim, but a childhood dream. As a young boy, he would sail around Italy with his father, and those memories stayed with him throughout his life.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235245/image/large-bd485af606dd8c83f63ad57e5f93600c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235245" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">In collaboration with his wife and the renowned interior designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1942" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Andrea Borzelli (Company)">Andrea Borzelli</a>, Mr D'Amico brought his vision to life in the form of the 38-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/970" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola (Company)">Costruzioni Navali Tigullio</a> motor yacht, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a>. The yacht is a testament to the couple's passion for design and their attention to detail, as they spent countless evenings discussing and fine-tuning every aspect of the project.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268020/image/large-ed952dac8d81d25d961decad51c1dce5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268020"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a>, a rare custom-built motor yacht, is now available for sale with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a>. The vessel is exceptional not only for its dedication to its owner's vision but also for its meticulous engineering and traditional nautical execution. The fully-custom yacht was built in 2015 by the Italian shipyard and is a true reflection of Mr D'Amico's knowledge and experience in yachting.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235235/image/large-eff476a3f821906a22b30a594904a642.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235235"> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a> is not just a yacht but a family-friendly vessel that combines functionality with elegance. It is a passion project that embodies the owner's love for the sea and his desire to capture everlasting memories with his family onboard. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/angra-too" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Angra Too superyacht for sale</a> is a masterpiece of design and showcases artisanal craftsmanship including a timeless emerald paintwork that will undoubtedly bring joy to its next lucky owner.&nbsp;SuperYacht Times sat down with owner Paolo D'Amico to learn more about his involvement in the build of his yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235244/image/large-495aa881c1a847c14c6290e00994c949.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235244">How did you get into yachting?I was born into the world of yachting, as my father was a yachtsman himself in the 1950s and 60s. As a family, we used to spend our summers in Greece, and I vividly remember my first trip there in 1968. The experience was incredible, and it ignited my passion for yachting - the sense of fun and adventure was truly captivating.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235243/image/large-5b3f4be804e91d63dd3ae29762970cfa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235243">What compelled you to want to own a yacht?As I grew up, I took over my father's boat after his passing and ran it for 6-7 years. It was a different experience without him, but it was my duty to continue his legacy and love for yachting.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235235/image/large-eff476a3f821906a22b30a594904a642.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235235">Why did you decide to build <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a> from scratch?I built a smaller 32-metre boat before. It was a perfectly beautiful boat but had some limitations. So when I reconnected with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/970" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola (Company)">Costruzioni Navali Tigullio</a> shipyard who also masterfully created my previous yacht, we thought let’s do it and this time try to do it bigger. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/44729/image/large-50ee45ac1ba6a1c20f7574c20400855f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/44729">What do you enjoy most about the building experience?One of the challenges that we faced was to optimise the boat's performance on the water. One of the primary obstacles was weight management, but with careful planning and execution, we were able to achieve the perfect balance and excel in speed, which was so great for me.&nbsp;Another significant advantage of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a> is the fact that it is a jet yacht rather than a propeller yacht. This enabled the engines to be relocated to the back of the boat, resulting in a vast increase in interior space. My wife and I were particularly pleased with the attention to detail that was put into crafting this beautiful interior space, which is both spacious and functional.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/44730/image/large-dd4950d2ed91fae36023210225007050.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/44730">How involved were you with the build?My wife and I worked closely together on the design, with me handling the technical aspects and my wife dedicating her expertise to crafting the interiors. Our partnership allowed us to meticulously create the yacht to our personal liking but also with timeless design down to the finest details. Our main vision was on the summer holidays we take with our family, if you build the yacht how you like it, then you will have the perfect summer holidays with friends and family, and I believe we did that with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268019/image/large-fb79d468b66710bc1ed8ee38f4704f01.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268019">You went larger on your second boat; what did you feel was missing on the first yacht that you implemented into the build of your second yacht?I mostly redid what I had done before in terms of dimensions it was larger, but with regard to the interior space and cabins, I always choose five cabins which gives you a maximum space for around ten people. Even if I had a 60-metre-plus yacht, I would always still only build a boat with a five-cabin layout. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235234/image/large-7ea66eedc2f831cdb0a3642c0ef61cc8.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235234">After experiencing owning a yacht, what was the most important aspect of being a yacht owner?While working on building the yacht, I truly thought about having my own space onboard, which is important when hosting. Yachting, for me, is the ultimate freedom. This is the best part of owning a yacht like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a>. I can leave and go wherever in the world I like, which gives my holidays a real essence of joy. I love being onboard, and this is something that I realise I need at least once a year. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235236/image/large-e1162c066546a80451a8d163f25bd2e4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235236">Would you buy another yacht?I'm always looking into new projects, but, at this moment, I am very happy, although if there is the opportunity to sell <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a>, I would go on to purchase something else.If so, would you use the same shipyard again?Yes, of course, we work very well together.&nbsp;Where do you like to travel on your yacht to and why?Greece, no doubt. Everywhere in Greece. I love the Greek Island of Milos and Andiparos. There are also other populated areas but you can get there easily the only limit is the wind.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/236752/image/large-46657c2c957794e6159612708fc937b9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/236752">Do you work onboard? How do you use your boat is it more for recreational experiences with friends and family or for travel?The main focus when on my yacht is my family and friends. I love to read and swim and enjoy the pleasures in life. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268021/image/large-5081f6cb07a062ec1d2606c81e8e61c1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268021">What are the best qualities onboard&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a>? What makes this yacht so special?For me, it is so unique and special for my wife and I. We really built this yacht from scratch together as a team effort. &nbsp;Like every project in life, once it has happened and been built, it is now your work. This yacht is rare as it is very hard to find a boat with these dimensions to include this amount of space and jets.&nbsp;Another very technical thing. I am very happy with the draft on the back it is less than one metre, and it is actually only 80cm in length this is due to the yacht having jets rather than propellers. This really helps as we love to travel around the islands in Greece and moor our boat on the rocks, maybe even just a metre from shore so everyone onboard is always very pleased with this feature. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/266179/image/large-077a9e7a6315dc0ab52a5f9b2d98fe7e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/266179">What were your preferences for interior design? Did you have a specific vision in mind?We wanted classical and timeless. My wife managed all the interiors onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a>. She opted for traditional wood, and of course, we do not use carpets we just wanted classic wooden flooring. The result is simplistic but extremely elegant and it was a fun experience as my wife was a collaborative partner with me on this.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235242/image/large-f8d57c61199438e48a0344cfdc680f1b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235242"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235237/image/large-de7031babc5bd593a413f01be8b64cf2.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235237"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angra Too38.0m (124'8&quot;)Costruzioni Navali Tigullio - Castagnola2015">Angra Too</a> is currently on the market with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a>.&nbsp;

owner interview Paolo D'Amico of 38m superyacht Angra Too

SuperYacht Times sat down with owner Paolo D'Amico to learn more about his involvement in the build of his superyacht Angra Too.

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Meet the owner: Mr Paolo D'Amico of 38m superyacht Angra Too

“My dream is to travel once around the world – whether it’s onboard this yacht or my next, I don’t know. But I’m going to do it,” the owner of <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> told SuperYacht Times, beaming. With good reason, too. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265808/image/large-821f7341b46fc048783e7aba64d31ff0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265808">We were sat in the offices at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a> wistfully chatting cruising grounds, star-studded events and his beautifully refitted 50.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> superyacht, which was gently bobbing in the waters lapping the shipyard. “She’s timeless, a real classic,” he said, gazing out the window. “The green was my wife’s idea,” referring to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emerald50.4m (165'4&quot;)Feadship1990">Emerald’s</a> suave, freshly-painted Orion green hull, courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6101" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jotun (Company)">Jotun</a>. “It was my wife who chose everything in fact, and I couldn’t be happier.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/257634/image/large-9366f38055670e91b5ceb8d9c505e234.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/257634">But it’s hard to believe that the 50.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> floating in the dock was the same one he bought nearly two years ago. “I love character, class and strong sturdy builds, so when I started looking for a new yacht I knew I was really looking for a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>.” With this in mind, David Westwood of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>, first steered him to the 44.2-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4366" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Valeria44.2m (145'0&quot;)Feadship1975">Valeria</a>, which is laid up at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a> – as fate would have it. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259593/image/large-0252709e6fde006536f95fd2b29f2983.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259593">“We came here to Urk to see the classic 1975 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> you can see over there,” he said, pointing in the direction of the front gate at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>, towards <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4366" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Valeria44.2m (145'0&quot;)Feadship1975">Valeria</a>. “She’s lovely, really. But the crew quarters are just a little too small for what we were looking for.“The crew has to be well looked after on my boats, they need to feel comfortable. It’s important to us that spacious, well-lit and relaxing areas need to be found in both guest and crew areas. Not only are guests travelling with us, so also are the crew. I want them to feel at home.” With <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4366" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Valeria44.2m (145'0&quot;)Feadship1975">Valeria</a> a no-go, David was back scouring the market for a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> that met expectations. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/196039/image/large-6c1cf1727a767970cde689a72b0858bc.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/196039"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> built 74 superyachts 40-metres or larger before the turn of the millennium, and out of those 74, only 12 are currently on the market. When these yachts are under ownership, they often stay that way. It was in fact Daan Balk, CEO and owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>, who informed the owner about a potential candidate: the 1990-delivered 48.83-metre MQ2, which was lying in Croatia at the time. Balk personally joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW</a> and the owners to inspect the yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265814/image/large-ed3bd1e3447fc1d45e4f7c135b6a2cef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265814"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265754/image/large-ebb517a81c02f593d1b13c100bf0f087.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265754"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265756/image/large-f1cc76efab2089fa67e828788cdc9d7c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265756"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265757/image/large-08fe49bcf5c99fbc1a7a5489e9c90c33.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265757">MQ2’s timeless exterior lines, penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/30" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Voogt Naval Architects (Company)">De Voogt</a>, and her voluminous interior won him over. The yacht was hauled out and surveyed in Trogir, Daan Balk was a guest throughout the study and provided the owner with sound reassurances. The deal was signed in May 2021, with the owner represented by James Hall and David Westwood of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>, and the seller John Cohen of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merle Wood & Associates, Inc. (Company)">Merle Wood &amp; Associates</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265818/image/large-200cb86197f8907e67c59768f906ad8f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265818">But it’s hard to believe that the 50.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> floating in the dock was the same one he bought nearly two years ago. At the time of sale, she was shorter, had less deck space and an old-fashioned stern with small, swing doors that led into the saloon. She was also fitted with twin two tonne cranes, port and starboard. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265764/image/large-f5ef92227d044089b7c4db39a14e7644.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265764">“My tender weighs three tonnes, so those cranes had to go,” her owner explained. “I wanted to restyle the stern section, so I thought why not extend and install a larger crane on the upper aft deck. Daan Balk had left a strong impression on me. I really appreciated his efforts during my visit to Valeria and thought ‘why not take MQ2 there for the refit’.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265781/image/large-1c80402a6a79af370032a66f2a42de19.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265781"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265790/image/large-ede5c877168aec88ce91085c99c4eec2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265790"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265795/image/large-20511eb863d128051c77551f603f4fb6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265795"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265785/image/large-835f076c9e2297ee73ec09d16c4a71bd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265785">&nbsp;“There was a lot of interest in this refit from many shipyards,” Daan Balk explained. “We ended up in a neck-and-neck race against <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/86" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amico & Co. s.r.l. (Company)">Amico &amp; Co</a> The final two contenders. In the end though, we were granted the order and we signed the project right after the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/97" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2021">2021 Monaco Yacht Show</a>.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265752/image/large-2b0599b6320a23dd3d157cff20a027d2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265752">It turned out to be an extensive 16-month refit in total, with her original interiors by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/435" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Robert Knack International (Company)">Robert Knack International</a>stripped bare and everything down to general arrangement entirely redesigned. Her stern wasn’t only restyled, it was also extended by more than a metre and she now features an impressive aft cockpit, complete with a hydraulic swim platform.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265776/image/large-c7e8853bf9fc6a98904d8c2e6d43252c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265776"> “The platform is fantastic; it can be lowered below the waterline. Just think, any charter guest can get in and out of the water with it, regardless of age. It also goes the other way, and my son who’s 17 was asking how high it can go, as he wants to use the platform as a diving board – it’s possible,” he laughed.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265778/image/large-7db59ce967387b1532637f16f594ca62.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265778"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emerald50.4m (165'4&quot;)Feadship1990">Emerald’s</a>&nbsp;naval architecture was re-engineered by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder Design</a>, and the team eked out as much as possible with this redesign. “We wanted the maximum we could, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder Design</a> drew up the plans and made it possible.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265770/image/large-09d0a99ab59be11639ea4aba37fab7cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265770"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265765/image/large-ec6b9c7bf2d0735ca7a317536602df90.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265765">Glass sliding doors have been installed between the skylounge and upper aft deck, replacing the swingset that really was not to the family’s taste. “Look at this space,” he said, swinging his arm around the upper lounge. “Can you imagine being sat here watching Formula One? It doesn’t get much better than that.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265770/image/large-09d0a99ab59be11639ea4aba37fab7cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265770"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265773/image/large-5ddff050fb3e0ab6fd74641de746726c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265773"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265771/image/large-f2e53e7d7af661934e7eb0bb8d3e63d3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265771"> The excitement was palpable and contagious. “This wasn’t here before either,” he said pointing to the stairway that connects the upper and main deck. “And the entire sun deck is new too,” he smiled. Taking pride of place forward of the sundeck is a very large Jacuzzi.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265806/image/large-e4ab38a2b432f8f5359257f7a579ec53.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265806">The owner’s wife took charge of the project, working very closely with the UK-based <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Design Unlimited (Company)">Design Unlimited</a> to map out and curate the perfect vessel. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Design Unlimited (Company)">Design Unlimited</a> was incredible to work with. The team is perfect and they knew exactly what we wanted, how we wanted it. They sat down with my wife and in a day they had the whole project mapped out. An amazing experience,” he said.“We wanted a yacht that was built around family use; plenty of space, lots of character and areas where we can relax to enjoy each other’s company,” her owner explained. Quite uncommon, especially for a yacht of this size, forward of the main deck is not one but two VIP suites. “When we have friends and family onboard, having a second VIP suite next to the master suite gives us more flexibility and the freedom to have our family all together, each with private space yet all on the same deck.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265816/image/large-462a9f714a58748a84e772b49ef02937.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265816"><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> offers accommodation for as many as 12 guests: four can sleep on the main deck in the two VIP suites, and the remaining eight will find accommodation on the lower deck. Each stateroom is finished with rich dark timbers that are sophisticated and lend the spaces a calming ambiance. There is a strict harmony across the staterooms, with only the ensuites differing in style.&nbsp;“Look at this detail,” the owner proudly said, running his hand over the veined marble bathroom wall. “This one my son picked out.” The portside lower deck double stateroom features vibrant stonework, unlike anything else on the yacht. “We each picked different natural stones for the bathrooms, so each suite has a distinctive character,” he explained. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265817/image/large-ebacdecc9e7bee9249a803d7bab6394d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265817">As we walked through <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> the owner was most animated detailing the crew areas. “This wasn’t here before,” the owner said, pointing to a window in the galley. “My wife redesigned the galley and fitted this window. It cost me a fortune, mind. But, look, we’ve positioned it so the galley is well lit and the chef and kitchen staff can enjoy the views.” Each of the crew cabins we stepped into was more generous in size than any I’ve seen before aboard a 50-metre superyacht – or larger, for that matter. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265790/image/large-ede5c877168aec88ce91085c99c4eec2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265790"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265787/image/large-ffeddc33f30ae9b66993860fbda2a04f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265787">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56920" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="50m Feadship superyacht Legacy V rechristened Emerald following major refit at Balk Shipyard (2023-02-09 17:30:00 +0100)">50m Feadship superyacht Legacy V rechristened Emerald following major refit at Balk Shipyard</a>This family-oriented design and generous crew quarters have an added benefit: she’s ideal for the charter market. “I haven’t chartered any of my yachts before now, but <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a> has instilled great confidence in me.” <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> will make her world debut at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MYBA Charter Show (Company)">MYBA Charter Show</a> in Barcelona on 24 April 2023. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265813/image/large-8bf0ce96031ac3c4b486c089cbbb39a6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265813">“I’m so pleased with her; <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/434" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balk Shipyard (Company)">Balk Shipyard</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/329" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Design Unlimited (Company)">Design Unlimited</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder Design</a> and my representative &nbsp;Jim Boot of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7018" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="WMC Superyachts (Company)">WMC Superyachts</a> have all done an amazing job. If I was to start the project again tomorrow, I wouldn’t change a thing.”<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> will be cruising the Mediterranean this summer season and will either be in the Caribbean or the Indian Ocean during the winter. She’s available for charter bookings through <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265807/image/large-9d6a4eebf05e2a8f17adff4ed54455da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265807">

Redesigning the 50m Feadship superyacht Emerald with owner 

The owner of the 50m Feadship superyacht Emerald joined SYT to discuss her refit at Balk Shipyard.

Owner interview: Redesigning the 50m Feadship superyacht Emerald

A single-prop fishing trawler is not an obvious choice for conversion into a superyacht, but for the owner of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.4m (148'11&quot;)Scheepswerf Maaskant 1988">Scintilla Maris</a>&nbsp;it was the only one. We travelled to the&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6228" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scheepswerf Maaskant (Company)">Damen Maaskant</a>&nbsp;shipyard near Rotterdam to find out more.&nbsp;The entrepreneur owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.4m (148'11&quot;)Scheepswerf Maaskant 1988">Scintilla Maris</a> grew up fascinated by tug boats and trawlers. A part of his family are fishermen from the island of Texel in northern Holland and as a young boy he would spend time sketching the workboats he saw there. At college he borrowed money from relatives to convert an old tugboat and lived on board for some years. In 1979 he emigrated to the US, set up three successful businesses and is now the proprietor of Richland Rum in Georgia. But his old love affair with trawlers never left him.“In the 1980s and into the ‘90s these steel-hulled boats represented the epitomy of Dutch shipbuilding,” he says. “They were very sturdily built, almost over-engineered, to deal with conditions in the North Sea. I’d been following the Dutch beam trawlers for years and when one became available as part of a decommissioning scheme in 2006 I decided to buy her, basically with a virtual handshake over the phone.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/186402/image/large-a4c59cf2689848f16519a85a74d79425.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/186402">The boat in question was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.4m (148'11&quot;)Scheepswerf Maaskant 1988">Scintilla Maris</a>, a 45.6-metre beam trawler launched in 1988. Beam trawlers are so called because they fish with a net on each side of the hull that is attached to a steel beam to hold them open. It is a method used for catching bottom-dwelling fish, including sole, plaice, turbot and monkfish, and their design owes much to the mainly Dutch shipyards that pioneered them.&nbsp;BUILT TO LAST<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.4m (148'11&quot;)Scheepswerf Maaskant 1988">Scintilla Maris</a> was the first of eight sisterships built by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6228" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scheepswerf Maaskant (Company)">Maaskant Shipyard</a> near Rotterdam, now part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Group</a>, which has over 70 years’ experience of building trawlers. He returned to the same yard to carry out an initial refit to remove all the fishing gear and upgrade some of the onboard systems. The project then ground to a halt for almost a decade as her owner was determined to come up with a work list and specs himself, mainly by spending time on other yachts, while juggling his business interests.Work resumed in 2019 when the shipyard began a full conversion by stripping back the hull to bare metal and removing the interior, decking and propulsion. After additional modifications to the hull and superstructure, all the metal surfaces were sandblasted, primed and sealed. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260418/image/large-51cf50249cc0d30ead0ff0bbc84f77e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260418">“Basically what we’re looking at is a new-build yacht in an existing shell. My reason for doing that is the exceptional quality of the hull, not only in terms of seaworthy design but also engineering and construction.”By way of example he points to the stainless-steel piping instead of galvanised metal or PVC, the 40mm of West African iroko decking, and the steel hull plates that are 10mm above the waterline and 15mm below (although not Ice Class, the hull is more robust than most explorer yachts). The extra-thick plates also mean there is no ‘washboard’ effect when the positions of the frames are visible as is often the case with thinner plating, especially when combined with poor heat management during welding. As the hull was stripped completely on the inside, the yard took the opportunity to remove any dents, an inevitable consequence of the vessel’s former life as a beam trawler (the ‘run rails’ welded to the hull served as protection from the heavy steel beams when deploying and retrieving the nets). <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/186704/image/large-365f81eb827adeff88362f4bd5632356.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/186704">All modifications had to be approved by RINA in order to bring the vessel into Class. The original trawler was rated at 570GT and an early priority was to bring the volume below the 500GT threshold, principally by creating more semi-open areas. Another major modification was cutting out sections of the hull and bulwarks amidships on both sides with steps leading down to water level, which actually increased hull stiffness as there is a steel box reinforcement under each staircase.&nbsp;The interior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a> is utilitarian, but also comfortable and not in any way sparse. In keeping with the vessel’s original design, extra windows or portholes are limited in size and framed in brass. High Pressure Laminate (HPL) panelling provides enhanced durability and impact resistance. Floating interior floors and low-frequency insulation serve to minimise noise and vibration. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260419/image/large-4bab6476d1f1f6b80312260f363886be.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260419">Maaskant Managing Director Eric Moerkerk showed us around a brand-new fishing vessel the yard had outfitted to give us an idea of what <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.4m (148'11&quot;)Scheepswerf Maaskant 1988">Scintilla Maris</a> will look like when finished. Although below Dutch superyacht standards in terms of luxury materials, the high-quality finish was several steps above what you would expect to find on a working vessel.&nbsp;“We’re used to working with demanding commercial clients who require a high degree of flexibility,” says Moerkerk. “Owners and their reps are always here in the yard during construction requesting changes and we’re able to react to their needs. This is the nature of the fishing business today and that flexibility means we’re well prepared to handle conversion projects like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.4m (148'11&quot;)Scheepswerf Maaskant 1988">Scintilla Maris</a>.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260414/image/large-ee06398dd29d70c784ae1c3b4a08326b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260414"> “A SUPER-SILENT, VIBRATION-LESS BEAST”By far the biggest upgrade is the hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system. Stricter emission regulations meant the initial intention to keep the original 4,400-hp <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1448" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Deutz AG (Company)">Deutz</a> MWM diesel engine, which was in excellent condition, had to be abandoned. Wabtech EPA T4/IMO Tier III engines, among the most technologically advanced and fuel-efficient medium-duty diesels, were also considered before settling on a hybrid DE system. &nbsp;Driving the single 3.4-metre Van Voorden propeller is a 2,000-horsepower electric motor (1300kW @ 1000rpm) supplied by Marelli in Italy that the owner refers to as a “super-silent, vibration-less beast.” The motor is custom-designed with two windings that effectively provide two motors of 650kW each wound on one stator, which can be energised individually or together for virtually any combination of normal motor speeds.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260408/image/large-f5fa5d4a66f21ca9c3ee0009b9c396d6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260408">The electric motor is coupled to a ZF Marine reduction box and three Volvo D16 IMO III gensets (586kW @ 1800rpm). The EST-Floatech Lithium-ion battery bank (2 MW) provides a further level of redundancy and is mainly used to run a full hotel load overnight without generators and for peak shaving, but they can also power the 110kW Marelli bow and stern thrusters for silent, emission-free, electronic anchoring. &nbsp; &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261481/image/large-d7fd8b61c1cecf54586a63582c013506.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261481">Maritiem Elektro Zeeland (MEZ), a tried and trusted local partner of Damen Maaskant, is the engineering firm responsible for integrating all the electrical installations, including the propulsion, power management, automation, navigation, communication, entertainment and lighting systems. The hybrid system based on an AC and DC (back-up) grid can be monitored remotely and basically provides four sailing modes: battery mode with limited power and hybrid mode with one, two or three diesel generators that are always running at constant loads. A Dynapilot system from Alphatron Marine and based on DP technology provides full navigational control in all modes via a single joystick. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261477/image/large-526305ff73094c1c4e0065008c41da68.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261477">Unlike modern yachts, two-thirds of the hull is below the waterline and the vessel has a 40-tonne keel. During the conversion weight has been added (including over 20 tonnes of batteries) in order to maintain the design draft. All this translates into a stiff rolling moment, which precludes the need for stabilising mechanisms beyond the original bilge keels. &nbsp;The general arrangement is still in the last stages of refinement, but when finished the yacht will be able to accommodate ten guests on the lower deck in four double cabins and a full-beam owner’s suite amidships underneath the original hatch into the fish hold (the former hold also provides immense space for storage and a good-size laundry). The main deck features multiple interior, exterior and semi-open areas for relaxation. On the bridge deck the open wheelhouse is enormous for the size of vessel and the owner has reserved the aft section as a private office. The main tender will be stowed on the sun deck aft and there is a viewing lounge forward overlooking the foredeck.&nbsp;“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.4m (148'11&quot;)Scheepswerf Maaskant 1988">Scintilla Maris</a> has been thoughtfully designed as a home away from home,” he says. “The purposing of spaces, the flow between them and the designation between the private and crew areas reflects that. I want to feel at home instantly and when stepping on board and specifically don’t want to feel like a guest in a hotel when on my own boat.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260412/image/large-52f95d726732c7afe779d9efb91ee2d3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260412">ASK THE EXPERTSThe owner is well aware that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.4m (148'11&quot;)Scheepswerf Maaskant 1988">Scintilla Maris</a> is a highly personal conversion project that is probably more suited to long-range voyages in northern waters than cruising the Côte d'Azur. But his business instincts also tell him that expert advice can make all the difference if he wants to commercialise his investment through chartering and eventual resale.&nbsp;So we were not the only ones visiting <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.4m (148'11&quot;)Scheepswerf Maaskant 1988">Scintilla Maris</a>. He had also invited William Molloy, head of charter at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moravia Yachting (Company)">Moravia Yachting</a>; Roy Posthuma, charter and sales broker also with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/808" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moravia Yachting (Company)">Moravia Yachting</a>; and Pino Di Mora, senior project manager with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hill Robinson (Company)">Hill Robinson</a>. What followed was a lively and productive discussion about how the onboard amenities, especially the crew accommodation and services, could be optimised without incurring drastic changes to the existing layout. &nbsp; &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260413/image/large-4df9e25eb2d9ea5c97209b9722616c15.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260413">Some 16 years after her owner acquired her, the transformation of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.4m (148'11&quot;)Scheepswerf Maaskant 1988">Scintilla Maris</a> from beam trawler into luxury yacht is on track to be completed by spring 2023, which must be something of a record for a conversion project.&nbsp;“This has been such a long project primarily because taking everything I learned, both the good and the bad, and translating that into something approaching a spec list for the shipyard took an enormous amount of time,” says the owner. “But it’s been an unusual privilege to be able to do this at the yard where the boat was actually built, where there are still a number of people that built <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.4m (148'11&quot;)Scheepswerf Maaskant 1988">Scintilla Maris</a>. To have that intimate connection with the boat and these guys who have so much pride in their work has been an amazing experience.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261480/image/large-1662c33dc9992c94766b840b96d5daa9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261480">This article was originally published in September 2022 of Issue 1 of the How to Build It magazine. <a href="https://superyachttimes.com/api/download/how-to-build-it-issue-1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">You can download the entire magazine for free here</a>.

Build story of 45m Scintilla Maris

Justin Ratcliffe joins the owner of the 45m Scintilla Maris to discuss her conversion from trawler to yacht.

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The unlikely conversion of the 45m trawler Scintilla Maris 

Onboard 44m Hemisphere with owner 

The owner of the 44m superyacht Hemisphere spoke with SuperYacht Times about his experience onboard the world's largest sailing catamaran. 

Hemisphere: Onboard the world’s largest sailing catamaran with owner and diving enthusiast 

The 51-metre Feadship motoryacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a> has been enjoyed as a private yacht by the same owners for more than three decades. She was the first <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> designed with a comfortable range for Pacific crossings, and her owners took full advantage. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a> has made numerous circumnavigations, explored new destinations and travelled to many remote locations.Following the news that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a> has joined the market for the first time, SuperYacht Times’ Alexander Griffiths caught up with Nick Spence, her first Captain and project manager, to hear more about how this unique and trend-setting vessel came to be.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/254601/image/large-c33379c3537081822a5569b7d3ae84bc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/254601">What were the key elements in the design brief for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a>?My clients had owned smaller cruising yachts, but their dream was to have a fully customised superyacht that was designed for cruising the Pacific Ocean and fitted out for diving excursions. They wanted a yacht that was a luxurious residence, while being able to reach the more remote destinations of the world, in comfort and safety for both guests and crew.Key elements were that she had to achieve the lowest sound and vibration levels possible. She also had to carry a large exploration and dive tender that could be launched and recovered in lively conditions. It was then also important that she could carry enough fuel and stores to sustain herself and those onboard for months at a time.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/254595/image/large-f6be9d2c862ba0410e7474fddcb98d92.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/254595">The design had to provide a private residential deck, without compromising the normal traffic flow for other passengers and crew. With an emphasis on form following function and multifunctionality, this yacht was to be ergonomically designed from the inside out. For example, one of our requirements was that from the main deck up you should always see the horizon, whether sitting or standing!A great deal of time was spent in the pre-bid design development stage for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a>; can you share how these initial conversations went?Once we laid out our conceptual ideas, highlighting what we thought was essential and what would be nice to have, we then spent over 2 years scouring the used market while simultaneously interviewing the top builders in Europe, studying the evolution of their projects and their management.In the used market, we had a chance to see what worked and what did not! Sadly, we observed many design deficiencies in the used market and in new builds, the causes stemming mostly from rushed bid packages developed only to conceptual levels before going to contract.We heard horror stories of massive, expensive change requests and realised we had to do our homework to provide the builder with proven engineering and material studies. To ensure that both builder and clients could make informed decisions, the clients gave me the greatest gift of all…. time and a substantial research budget to develop the ultimate design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84699/image/large-ed1ed8d8fcbc309b2b132a68b9c1788b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84699">We could not find anything in the used market that even came close to the brief, so we commissioned a feasibility team of the top superyacht subcontractors in the areas of air conditioning, mechanical, electrical, structural and noise/vibration to provide us with the best design criteria.We were able to fully explore the options without the budget restrictions of a builder already working to a contract price. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/138" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Richard Hein (Company)">Richard Hein</a> orchestrated this detailed feasibility and engineering study with an overarching mandate for a highly ergonomic vessel. He was assisted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/42" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Glade Johnson Design, Inc. (Company)">Glade Johnson</a>, who defined the materials and ergonomics of the interior and red flagged any departures from the interior brief.The feasibility team did an excellent job of providing well engineered solutions to enable us to prepare a fully developed design. So with that stage completed, we felt confident going ahead with a large and detailed bid package of specifications, drawings and a materials list that would compare apples with apples and give the bidding builders greater confidence in pricing and execution.Glade Johnson of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5618" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seattle Yachts (Company)">Seattle</a>&nbsp;was enlisted for the interior design of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a> – what drove this decision and what headed the design brief?The clients wanted a modern superyacht that was durable, elegant, comfortable, and easy to maintain. We knew that choosing the right interior designer was critical so as not to waste the clients’ time. We had shortlisted down to four top firms who, once briefed by the family, did compensated proposals for the owner’s deck and main lounge. Funnily enough, at that time Donald Trump was doing the same for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/297" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kingdom 5KR86.0m (282'2&quot;)Benetti SpA1980">Trump Princess</a>, but as a competition and without payment except to the winner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/254597/image/large-10c6369bd6d32409887ca20611a1f650.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/254597"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/42" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Glade Johnson Design, Inc. (Company)">Glade</a> and his team were absolutely brilliant, took copious notes and hit a home run in understanding our needs and preferences. He focused on how to make our vision a practical reality and not on his reputation or ego.What led to the ultimate decision to choose <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> to construct the project?It was a process of elimination. We started with a short list of 6 yards. Feadship was not the cheapest but represented the least risk and we liked the DeVries Family. They were persistent. They were fair. We checked out their customers. There were few complaints. And many previous owners had second and third vessels built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>. That, in itself, was quite an endorsement!&nbsp;So, after four years of extensive research and development, we presented our detailed bid package to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> in 1991, signed the contract in July that year and saw her delivered in December 1993, for a maiden voyage to Antigua.&nbsp;How was the build process at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw (Company)">DeVries Shipyard</a>?To be honest, I felt that I had died and gone to Shipyard Heaven! We had given them detailed engineering and interior design data that was called “contract guidance drawings” to enable these amazing builders and architects to have a complete vision of what the end product was to be from day one.For example, we had negotiated very stiff conditions if we did not reach quite challenging noise targets, so workers were fanatical about installing all sound and vibration equipment perfectly. At sea trials, we averaged about 4Db below contract noise targets with a promise to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw (Company)">DeVries</a> never to disclose those excellent results. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235649/image/large-3bffed53467d17ee60de07c5603aebaa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235649">It turned out the build stage was quite anticlimactic, so I was able to focus on the nuances of the second and third level improvements, instead of dealing with basic design deficiencies that often lead to major change requests and stress!You must have some great stories from your times onboard as captain. Can you share some of your most memorable moments with us?As the owners have a real wanderlust, to say that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a>&nbsp;travelled the world in her 30 years is not an exaggeration. Each destination was unique because <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a> needed no base and rarely visited the same port twice. Japan was a phenomenal experience as we tracked the cherry blossoms from the South to the North of the country. From those remote islands and coastlines, we could enjoy the historical wonders of the Japanese seaboard and the energy of its thriving cities.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235647/image/large-abd35b721c309042fb35e30a653cb2c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235647">In Europe we enjoyed the rich history and culture of the Continent, in the Americas we partied in Cabo San Lucas, circumnavigated Newfoundland, and fished for Atlantic bluefin tuna off Prince Edward Island. Diving expeditions in the Red Sea, Raja Ampat, Papua New Guinea, Fiji and Micronesia were activities along with sportfishing, that I really enjoyed sharing with the owners.If I am going to rank my favourite destination, it would still be fishing in Alaska. It was a delight to be her captain for the first 8 years and to prove all our design ideas within the reality of wind and water.Have you considered or made designs for larger yachts in the past 30 years?&nbsp;Once you have built a successful yacht, if not physically, you certainly mentally are constantly building and rebuilding your next dream yacht. We actually went through a design study in 1999-2000 for a larger 79-metre vessel that could store a helicopter for remote cruising. However, the advantages of a 51-metre yacht that can dock in smaller marinas and our satisfaction with how well the crew and details of the existing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a> worked, could not justify going bigger. A decision we have never regretted!<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/254599/image/large-f684bac53f758e2a0c1e629f7338802c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/254599">Has she undertaken any significant changes since her launch in 1993?It was important to us to keep <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a> up with the times; as technology changed, we continually improved her electronic systems to keep her state-of-the-art, in particular with digital technologies and home automation systems. Mechanically, her engines have proven to be outstanding and continue to serve her well. We change her generators on an as-needs basis while maintaining the highest regulatory classifications.How do you crew a yacht like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993">Double Haven</a>?When we are hosting guests, we have 14 dedicated crew. The owners have been able to retain many of our senior crew for more than decades at a time, including our Captains, Chief Engineer and Head Chef. The last captain was with the yacht for 20 years, and the new captain has been with the yacht since 2007, as has the Chief Engineer.&nbsp;The crew have a long history with the boat, so there is a strong team commitment to the yacht’s maintenance and the well-being of guests, that will be of great benefit and comfort to a new owner.What drove the decision to sell her after all these years?The needs of the clients have changed. The older generation has become less agile and the younger family members have other priorities.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1436" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Haven51.0m (167'4&quot;)Feadship1993"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/254600/image/large-61c29357ab42bcac3787b67a2e334d8d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/254600">Double Haven</a> would suit an owner who wants a vessel designed with privacy and comfort in mind. She is designed for short and long excursions, entertaining and exploring locations that are harder to reach. She is designed for adventure, but without sacrificing creature comforts, and has proven herself to be deserving of all the design awards and accolades she won when first launched.This article was originally published in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-43-newspaper-launched" target="_blank">Issue 43 of SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>. To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

51m Double Haven yacht 

SuperYacht Times caught up with Nick Spence, Captain of the 51-metre Feadship motoryacht Double Haven

Captain's insight: Nick Spence of Double Haven

For any passionate sailor worth his salt, sailing aboard a classic J-Class yacht would be the pinnacle of their maritime career. For some however, life aboard the mythic J’s is not just a dream, but an everyday reality, and at times, an adrenaline overload. One of those rare few, is the Suffolk born Englishman, Will Gibbon, who has had the fortune to sail, cruise and live aboard not one, but two of these extraordinary vessels. Will is now in his fourth year as First Mate aboard the original 1933 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/192" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> J-Class, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>, but he began his career in the Class aboard the 41.55-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/792" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Danish Yachts (Company)">Danish Yachts</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a>, a Spirit of Tradition J-Class which was built as an exact replica of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sparkman & Stephens, Inc. (Company)">Sparkman &amp; Stephens</a>' Ranger, launched in 1937. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/77147/image/large-d465539bc3e1937d189bed1804c5859f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/77147">SYT’s Francesca Webster, caught up with Will, an old friend and wildly unsuccessful (on her part) first sailing coach, to talk about his entrance to the close knit world of classic yachts, his life aboard the sloops, and his all time best experiences.&nbsp;In his late teens, Will worked on the U.K.’s east coast for sailmaker John Parker at his loft OneSails GBR. The international team at OneSails cut cloth for some of the biggest names in the industry, designing sails for superyachts, as well as classics and dinghies. It was here that Will, already an experienced small boat sailor, began sailing and racing more frequently, eventually meeting English comedian Griff Rhys Jones and joining the race crew of his 1948 Bermudan <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sparkman & Stephens, Inc. (Company)">Sparkman &amp; Stephens</a> yawl, Argyll. After three years as race crew, Will stepped up to the 19-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1110" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="William Fife (Company)">Fife III</a> sloop <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mariquita38.1m (125'0&quot;)William Fife & Sons1911">Mariquita</a>, joining the permanent crew as deckhand. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/21917/image/large-0b83c5c1372e2212f045eeb9db383f5d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/21917">In 2015, the news was announced that the entire existing J-Class fleet, minus <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>'s sister ship <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/621" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Endeavour39.56m (129'9&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1934">Endeavour</a>, would be coming together in a momentous event at the 2017 America’s Cup in Bermuda. His passion for classic yachts already ignited, it was Will's firm ambition to join one of the Class and compete in the once in a lifetime regatta. Eventually his dream was recognised, with the invitation to join <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a> as deckhand. “The mate at the time was promoted to captain, and he took me on and I worked through the ranks, which is the best way to learn these yachts. Even though <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a> has had a refit since I was last aboard, I am still familiar with both of the yachts, having spent so much time aboard.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195515/image/large-74bdf602eba6143a336b0fe716023033.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195515">For many sailors who witnessed the 2017 America’s Cup, the spectacular show of the J-Class competition stood out as a pinnacle of the event. Processing through Hamilton Harbour, gigantic flags billowing at their stern, the J-Class yachts truly put on a show, and for Will it was a top moment of his career. “Bermuda is definitely the highlight for anyone that has sailed aboard these yachts in recent years, it is easily the highlight of my career.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195513/image/large-ce1f6035c0d913dfafb3f22b12e18447.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195513">It was not all fun and games however, the regatta was a serious affair and every owner, captain and crew wanted to take the top spot during the races. Racing on a yacht coming toward its centenary isn’t without its difficulties, and Bermuda posed some additional challenges for the crew. With the water temperature considerably hotter than the Mediterranean, and the yachts being pushed to their limits, sometimes with only thirty minutes between races. There wasn't much time to catch your breath, “One day we did three windward-leeward courses, which for a J-Class is massive, especially in the small space within the reef in Bermuda. The legs were really short so you’re running everything as hot as possible and down in the engine room it got to about 45-degrees, everything was bubbling a fair amount!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195512/image/large-d61bcbf043ee8584ce98502e67664278.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195512">After Bermuda, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/432" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ranger41.55m (136'4&quot;)Danish Yachts2003">Ranger</a> wintered at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pendennis Shipyard Ltd (Company)">Pendennis</a>, and the following season, in 2018, Will joined the crew of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>, now as first mate. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> is one of the busiest yachts in the Class, competing year in, year out, usually participating in four regattas annually. As Will explained, many of the Class’ take a year out after big racing seasons like 2017 because the investment of time means less time for cruising, the other hugely rewarding part of owning a J-Class. The owner of one of the newest J's to the fleet, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/32" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Holland Jachtbouw (Company)">Holland Jachtbouw</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2632" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Topaz42.62m (139'10&quot;)Holland Jachtbouw2015">Topaz</a>, launched in 2015, fortunately shares the enthusiasm for racing clearly displayed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>’s owner, and the two yachts go bow-to-bow at almost every regatta. On the rare occasion that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> is the only J in the regatta fleet, she stands her ground on handicap against her contemporary counterparts, and in 2019 took the top spot at Les Voiles de St Tropez against the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros Armon (Company)">Astilleros Armon</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rambler32.5m (106'8&quot;)Astilleros Armon1982">Rambler</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/276" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="McConaghy Boats (Company)">McConaughy Boats</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/314" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leopard 330.0m (98'5&quot;)McConaghy Boats2007">Leopard 3</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/79974/image/large-b99c0d0e6faa8dddb4ea6cd2c95239e9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/79974">Watching these iconic vessels sparring, be it in the Caribbean or off the coast of Southern France, one is struck by their grace; huge black carbon sails towering over hulls which look like pencils in the water. Despite their classic aesthetic however, these yachts are high performance beasts, as Will noted, “we are always pushing to get every last bit out of the boat, our rigger often reminds us ‘you only have to win by a second’.” Today the entire fleet features carbon masts and sails, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> has hydraulic winches and Future Fibres rigging, a big upgrade from a few years ago. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/77148/image/large-2b46575ac18ba220f40e375346d82ea0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/77148">When they aren’t competitively racing, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>’s owner joins the yacht throughout the year, and cruising is some of the crew’s favourite time aboard. When asked if a particular moment had stayed in Will's mind, a cruise in Greece when they spotted the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/192" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> 1934 J-Class <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/621" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Endeavour39.56m (129'9&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1934">Endeavour</a>, the vessel which lost to the American defender Rainbow&nbsp;by Vanderbilt, Herreshoff and Burgess, immediately came to mind. The two yachts were sailing along the same reach and the crew from both put their minds to a race.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/94598/image/large-1744f1ef1e5d64f42ace47e5920f5c88.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/94598">With <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/621" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Endeavour39.56m (129'9&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1934">Endeavour</a> almost never competing, and only the permanent crew of seven aboard, it was all hands on deck for their 20-minute spar, “that was a lot of fun, sailing short handed is some of the most fun you have and when we are cruising you go to some amazing places.” Sardinia is also a top spot for Will, and the Rolex Cup is one of his favourite regattas. Life aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> also has the additional benefit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1480" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bystander42.18m (138'5&quot;)JFA Yachts2006">Bystander</a>, a 42.18-metre superyacht that accompanies the J. The superyacht, which was built by JFA Yachts and launched in 2006, carries additional crew, support and supplies and provides the accommodation for the owner after a long day of racing aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/198077/image/large-07d8e02f9c2d3ccd509f5eda7c490c64.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/198077">For any sailer who hasa spent time aboard the classics, it is impossible not to touch on the maintenance of these yachts, which is a constant hum going on behind the scenes. Unlike their modern counterparts, many of which are made of carbon and GRP with wooden veneers, classic yachts demand constant work to retain them in pristine condition. Last year, while the pandemic raged across the world, and regattas were set aside, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a>'s team took the opportunity to conduct her 25 year survey. When she was most recently rescued from the mud and restored, latterly in 1997, it was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/231" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southampton Yacht Services Ltd (Company)">Southhampton Yacht Services</a> that conducted the work. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/69138/image/large-f16e6c423018d56133aed37ba823be08.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69138">As for the future, Will has other dreams, but he can’t see himself stepping off of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Velsheda39.4m (129'3&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1933">Velsheda</a> any time soon, the possibility of an America’s Cup season in New Zealand, or perhaps the United Kingdom, is too much of a draw. After all, once you’ve conquered some of the most coveted super sailing yachts in the world, how can you tear yourself away...This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news/superyacht-times-newspaper-issue-39" target="_blank">Issue 41 of SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>. To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

Interview with J-Class Velsheda First Mate

SYT sits down with Will Gibbon, professional sailor and First Mate aboard 1933 J-Class Velsheda. 

Velsheda: Life aboard a Golden Age J-Class

Despite being built in Indonesia, the 46-metre wooden hulled schooner <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mutiara Laut 46.0m (150'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2009">Mutiara Laut</a> has truly European roots. Constructed by a deeply passionate Dutch owner named Leendert “Leo” Van Oostenbrugge, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mutiara Laut 46.0m (150'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2009">Mutiara Laut</a> was the realisation of a lifelong dream to build his own sailing yacht, himself, from the keel up. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226472/image/large-4247ffbfe622433e6a4766057a28472b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226472">Born in Rotterdam, Leo made his career navigating the oceans at the helm of cargo ships before swallowing the anchor and heading to shore to manage marinas back in the Netherlands. Locally he became well known for building small sailing yachts but on his retirement he and his wife moved to the balmier climes of Bali, where he set about the construction of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mutiara Laut 46.0m (150'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2009">Mutiara Laut</a> or “Pearl of the Sea” in Indonesian. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226486/image/large-7f27a5ee73386f900fff211d48768781.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226486">As the months went by, Leo began to struggle with his health and turned to a fellow Dutch expat Kees Groenendijk, who’d recently emigrated to Bali with his family. Together Kees and Leo ran the yacht, with Kees managing the charter sales and Leo overseeing the maintenance and management of the yacht. When Leo suddenly died only seven months later, Kees was left in a bind – to retain the yacht, or to sell… “I was thinking, what should I do? I didn’t know a huge amount about boats and had only really been involved on the business side for a few months but I’d loved the time I'd spent onboard and she had a lot of potential as a popular in the charter market so I thought, why not?” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226475/image/large-7c0799c70fc581484452ffd196c47d4d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226475">Kees found some local people with yachting expertise to assist and began to work closely with the crew, many of whom had been with the yacht since her launch six years earlier. With seven staterooms and the capacity to sleep as many as 18 guests, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mutiara Laut 46.0m (150'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2009">Mutiara Laut</a> was a clear win for the charter market, and as soon as he’d got to grips with the business Kees began advertising for charters again.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226481/image/large-3c6813894603256ccb5003ad4f51a74e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226481">“In the beginning we only did private charters, mostly adventure trips, sometimes with a dive instructor onboard. Then suddenly a dive boat company that had been working in the same office building lost their yacht but had already sold many charters for the coming months. We made an agreement with them and took over their charters and they provided dive masters and equipment to us. Of course it was no problem for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mutiara Laut 46.0m (150'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2009">Mutiara Laut</a>, she has a huge amount of storage and makes and has a big open deck which is perfect for diving charters – it couldn’t have worked more in our favour.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226483/image/large-8bde07fc3fc4d9ea133e2639dc309b74.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226483">After the success of the season, the yacht’s popularity in the charter market only increased. In 2017 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mutiara Laut 46.0m (150'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2009">Mutiara Laut</a> underwent a refit, and she will complete another this year that aims to modernise her interiors which have been only minorly modified since her launch. “Her current interior is very traditional which is lovely, but I feel she could use some additional colour. A designer came onboard in June and has already come up with some interesting designs and styling for her interior, which will be completed next year.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226482/image/large-a95a3a6602682dea76fa695e525b3d05.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226482">With a true family feeling onboard, Kees often joins his charter guests and acts as a guide during their charter. Over the years many unique and familiar faces have stepped onboard, most notably for Kees was Roger Taylor and Brian May of Queen who’d come out to Bali to witness a spectacular solar eclipse. The crew found a deserted island where they could relax in privacy and watched the solar eclipse just after breakfast – a truly once in a lifetime experience for Kees. “We woke them early at around 5am when we served them an early breakfast and then took them ashore to watch the eclipse. As soon as the eclipse had passed, two beautiful birds of paradise were spotted in a tree off the beach, which we almost never see here, it was incredible.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226479/image/large-e04f88146b02588ff80e41e6d140d58b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226479">Having an experienced, local crew onboard has been one of the most important things to Kees and his team. Many of them have been onboard since her launch in 2009 and know the yacht and the islands of Bali better than anyone, offering her guests more variety and exclusivity than many comparable yachts in the region. “The crew are brilliant, they do everything for the guests and they all have a real instinct for what guests are looking for. I do try and bring someone along that speaks the language of the guests because that can make people feel more at home and can save language barrier confusion and we also have a variety of dive masters from all over the world who work with us.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226476/image/large-d770c0e518fc31edf196349f22b39975.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226476">When guests aren’t onboard, Kees and his family make the most of their yacht, cruising around Komodo Island and enjoying life on the water. Despite not having had much experience when he took on the yacht, he is now firmly passionate about her and even has aspirations to grow his fleet to offer a variety of vessels to his clients. Currently speaking with potential investors, we may even see a larger vessel cruising alongside <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mutiara Laut 46.0m (150'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2009">Mutiara Laut</a> in the future. “It would take as much as five or six years to build a yacht like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mutiara Laut 46.0m (150'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2009">Mutiara Laut</a> in Indonesia, not only because of the skillset needed but also because of the materials you would need to build her.” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mutiara Laut 46.0m (150'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2009">Mutiara Laut</a> is a wooden hulled yacht but is also one of the last boats to have been built out of Indonesia Ulin, also known as Ironwood due to its high tensile strength and long growth time, with the oldest trees living for more than 1,000 years. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/22631/image/large-85921a98a8458371b3b28e40129f63b1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/22631">Ironwood originally came from Borneo, but now the exportation of it is illegal and the cost of any planked wood is extremely high. Kees has little interest in a steel vessel and so the most sensible choice will be to look into a used superyacht, and it is the Indonesian Pinisi which has particularly spiked Kees’ interest. Like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mutiara Laut 46.0m (150'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2009">Mutiara Laut</a> Pinisi’s are multi-masted wooden yachts with large deck spaces, and spacious interiors, making them excellent charter yachts. Whether or not <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mutiara Laut 46.0m (150'11&quot;)C.V. Mutiara Murni2009">Mutiara Laut</a> is joined by a fleet in the coming years, however, it is certain that she will continue to offer unique and exciting experiences to her many guests and owners for years to come.&nbsp;This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-42" target="_blank">Issue 42 of SuperYacht Times newspaper.</a>&nbsp;To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

Ownership: The 46m yacht Mutiara Laut

We caught up with the owner of 46-metre schooner Mutiara Laut, Kees Groenendijk

Ownership: Chartering yacht Mutiara Laut around Bali with her owner Kees Groenendijk

Many owner’s fall in love with boats as a child, and Luca Regusci, a semi-retired businessman and owner of the 31.75-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/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a>, is no exception. “I was practically born on the water!” he laughs, “As a Swiss, I was always near a lake, and next to the yacht rather than on it. So I've always had the passion to sail; since I was very young, I liked the water and the things that moved on top of it.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252378/image/large-9356e508d8f7b2180036b10fd95d2c4b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252378">Luca started off boating on Lake Lugano, Switzerland in his family’s classic wooden runabout, before later owning a string of vessels which gradually went up in size. In 2012, he became the owner of the new-build <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> Tradition 105 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a>. Her name comes from Northern Italian dialect and translates to ‘not bad at all’, as well as being a play on the words ‘mi ama,’ meaning ‘he/she loves me.’<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252373/image/large-526ee7c09839e12b883c7a46dc10c392.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252373">And <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a> is most certainly ‘not bad at all,’ as Luca Regusci and his wife Monica knew exactly what they wanted when they customised her. “The whole of 2011 was dedicated to the design and build process, and we were in Italy almost every week,” recalls Luca. “We worked with the yard and the designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/767" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Roberto Del Re (Company)">Roberto Del Re</a>, to introduce a lot of modifications to the interior layout. This involved some structural changes, so we gave <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> 20 months to complete the build as opposed to the standard 15 months or so.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252364/image/large-089f5314c65fc229935f495abcbb4c74.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252364">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> Tradition 105 model was built to their specifications with changes made to the staterooms layout, and her owners got exactly what they were looking for in the end; a true second home that they can live comfortably on for months at a time.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252363/image/large-0ec5277ec7e0d10f55c42cb0566fda17.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252363"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a> was launched in February 2012 in Viareggio, Italy and she spent her first summer cruising in Corsica and Sardinia. "I'm looking for what pleases me, which is the sea in fantastic locations with atmosphere; the countries, the people, it's all a bit of a discovery," comments Luca. The couple love to explore onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a> and spend up to three months aboard each summer, racking up 5,000 nautical miles a year. “I really like being in locations that are almost unknown. This is what intrigues me. Every season we discover regions that we know already, but from a different point of view.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252359/image/large-2e5c549d38949889367b8eb5faee14e3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252359">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> 105 yacht is the perfect vessel for Mediterranean style cruising– thanks to her moderate draft and compact proportions she is able to anchor close to shore, and dock in some of the most picturesque ports. Since her delivery, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a> has cruised extensively between the Italian mainland, Sardinia, Corsica, the Aeolian Islands, Greece and Croatia with many more adventures planned!<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252376/image/large-54b127e6351083b46a7f456e6aa5bab5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252376"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a> also benefits from an attentive crew of four, headed by captain Andrea Segato, alongside chef Sergio Pellungrini, stewardess Paola Valenza and mechanic-come-deckhand Cristian Diez. “I was introduced to Andrea during the build and we hit it off from the start,” says Luca. “Enthusiastic yet responsible, for me he’s the ideal captain and early on we established that prevention is better than cure. In the winter, we deal with the snag list of jobs to put right, so that we start each season with zero issues.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252391/image/large-b76191944112616bbcc622c89d5b319f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252391">When you are spending weeks at a time onboard a large yacht, it requires a good relationship with the crew, and the close knit relationship they have on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a> makes this a dream come true. “Our captain Andrea will arrange cultural and archaeological excursions well in advance, and our stewardess, Paola, who studied history and literature, also makes a great guide. By the end of the day we’re usually pretty exhausted and prefer to dine aboard, especially as we have an excellent chef. To enjoy the boat to the full requires trust, humility, compassion and understanding; you have to collaborate to make it work” says Luca.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252350/image/large-259df68a737e7af21fdb010f03ed3b4f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252350"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a> and her crew are well suited to the lifestyle needs of Luca and his wife Monica, and despite the fact that Benetti sometimes raises the subject, Luca is in no hurry to upgrade to a larger yacht. When he was designing his displacement yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a>, he was already determined to have a limit of 35-metres to suit all his requirements. “They say displacement yachts are for older people, but that’s not true: it all depends on what you want to do, where you want to go and the time you have available,” explains Luca.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252352/image/large-c66df3823383a4ba1f0d0fbe3733f911.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252352">The fact that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a> is fitted with stabilisers allows for a quieter, more comfortable experience when cruising, and also means she can make transfers at night and in weather that would stop a planing yacht from leaving the harbour. “Sometimes I think it would be nice to have room for a separate office or possibly even a small gym, but there is a critical size at which the boat is no longer suited to your needs,” Luca points out.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252375/image/large-fe521e2052c09e44fb9d05c7f59e86c6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252375">Luca Regusci certainly has a passion for sailing that has grown with him, alongside the size of the vessels he has owned. By gradually moving up in size, Luca has learnt more about the industry and its practices which make him truly appreciate his yacht Miamaa. “Coming back to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3891" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Miamaa31.75m (104'2&quot;)Benetti SpA2012">Miamaa</a> is like coming back to the security of a home, but a home that offers us something new every day. I realised what makes her so special is that you can always spot the smiles of all of those onboard.”This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-43-newspaper-launched" target="_blank">Issue 43 of SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>.&nbsp;To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

Owner Luca Regusci and his 32m Benetti yacht Miamaa

Sophie Spicknell spoke with owner Luca Regusci about his love of the ocean and his perfect semi-custom superyacht, Miamaa

A custom creation: Luca Regusci on his ownership of the 32m Benetti yacht Miamaa

In May of this year the Italian shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> unveiled its latest yacht, the innovative SP110, the first model of the shipyard’s new Smart Performance range, which has been created with a vision for high performance and maximum efficiency. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250650/image/large-4992582486ae75d2255cf85e23c39445.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250650">Thanks to a fractional propulsion system, the boat is able to move around using just one engine, a pair, or all three; thus allowing great flexibility, low consumption and differential autonomy depending on the desired speed. Massimo Perotti, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>, is the first owner to take delivery of an SP110 motor yacht and as he is always heavily involved in the development of new yacht projects, we caught up with Mr Perotti to find out more about the vessel, from the unusual perspective of both shipyard and yacht owner. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250646/image/large-18832677c619206548f392505500f566.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250646">How involved were you with the development of this yacht, both in terms of her design and the innovations she houses?I was very much involved, just as I am involved with all the new projects. Seeing a new yacht taking shape, sketch after sketch and then actually being launched gives me the utmost satisfaction. The team behind SP110 is the key factor to the success of this boat: under the supervision of Tilli Antonelli and Bernardo <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuccon International Project (Company)">Zuccon</a> for the exterior lines and Piero <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/78" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lissoni Associati (Company)">Lissoni</a> for the interiors, they have been able to create the perfect balance between style, elegance and performance. Innovations are at the very core of this yacht but, as always, within the tradition of Sanlorenzo. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250645/image/large-8ae6e20199b978a44beb4b5161c8a31d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250645">With solar panels and water jet propulsion both featuring, how important are sustainable solutions to you, both as a builder and as a yacht owner?SP stands for Smart Performance, two words that perfectly embody the essence of SP110. As I have said before, thinking of a new yacht project without keeping sustainability well in mind is no longer possible or practical. We have been building yachts for many years in Ameglia, surrounded by beauty inside a natural park, therefore adopting a sustainable approach is the only possible way of building. As an owner, I want to do whatever is possible to minimise the impact of my boat on the environment so all the new solutions that keep the CO2 emission to a minimum level, if not to a zero level, are always not only our, but also my, personal goal.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250644/image/large-776c215b3f0568328dbf1b257688fa8d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250644">Can you tell us a little about the hydro jet propulsion system and its benefits?Unlike propellers, hydro jet propulsion is not impacted by displacement and consequently it is an efficient propulsion form in all load conditions. This means that the yacht is extremely manoeuvrable, and the absence of noise and vibrations let me enjoy the rear cockpit in full comfort even at full speed. Last but not least, the very low draft (1.30-metres) which is necessary for hydro jet propulsion, allows the yacht to anchor very close to the beach especially in the Bahamas shallow waters<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/245528/image/large-ead29d484c8201a4a5af48d9cb1d3127.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/245528">With top speeds of 45 knots, how do you prioritise speed and comfort – how do you intend to use this superyacht?Due to the hydro jet propulsion, even at 45 knots, the boat is absolutely enjoyable and you really do not feel such a high speed. Therefore, there is no compromise on comfort. I will use the boat with my family and my friends; it is my place to relax and enjoy the sea in my element.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250641/image/large-1264cce612717da08819757377df20e5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250641">What are your favourite features onboard this yacht?This is a difficult question. The generous transom is an area that gives me total freedom and enjoyment: you have your toys and your sun lounges where you can sit with your friends so close to the sea and enter the water with no barriers. But there is another area which has been a very pleasant surprise! This is my first coupe and, to be honest, I was afraid that I would miss the flybridge, with its panoramic views and open layout offering the best breeze. In fact I do not miss it at all because when you sit on the main deck aboard the SP110 you have this wonderful sensation of being at sea, with a breeze flowing through the open doors and windows which lower all the way down – it is just like standing on the flybridge.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240059/image/large-4a02a81d9856eccea2a0589463177be8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240059">What about the SP110 are you most looking forward to enjoying?&nbsp;Sitting at anchor in a quiet Sardinian bay with my family, feet dangling in the water from the transom. I can not think of a better way to spend my evening.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250647/image/large-5a6ffa5576c4c03a4ff7c3c7815d038c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250647">This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-43-newspaper-launched" target="_blank">Issue 43 of SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>.&nbsp;To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

Massimo Perotti and his 33m SP110 yacht Almax 

Sanlorenzo CEO,Massimo Perotti talks to SYT about his 33m SP110 yacht Almax.

Ownership: Massimo Perotti and his 33m SP110 yacht Almax

When it comes to assessing the psychology behind human decision making, it is safe to say that the vast majority of us like to think of ourselves as complicated, unique individuals who are more than capable of making our own choices. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224019/image/large-5808cfd75aa0a666e983e5a00dbb3df3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224019">Although there is some truth behind this statement, numerous studies carried out by social psychologists from 1956 to the present day have shown the important role which a phenomenon called ‘social conformity’ can have on our decision making. Putting it simply, deep down, we are all looking for approval from those around us, and are all influenced, whether we like to admit it or not, by the behaviour, opinions and preferences of those around us.The invention of social media in recent years has served to widen both the sphere and impact of this influence – we are in contact with a far wider pool of other people than has ever historically been the case, meaning that we can have a considerable impact on those we have never met before through a well-timed tweet or Instagram post. Whether that is convincing them to undertake a new wellness regime, to travel to far-flung parts, or even to become involved in the world of yachting. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224025/image/large-adef3838a42095d631979ce6e8b16f73.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224025">And this is where Tarek Khalil comes in. Proud owner of the 2021-delivered 29-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ACE29.1m (95'6&quot;)Sanlorenzo2021">ACE</a>, the Egyptian-born businessman boasts an impressive 675k followers on Instagram for his @ace_of_egypt account and uses it to spotlight eye-catching and pictures and videos of his vessel in diverse locations all around the world which he has relished sharing with his family and friends, from El Gouna in the Red Sea, to Bonifacio in Corsica, to Portofino in the Italian Riviera to the Greek islands and many more. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224021/image/large-1d9e30977d32b55681a1a8b9f3a4e379.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224021">As he explains, the purpose of his account is to showcase the best of the yachting lifestyle to the uninitiated, especially those in the Red Sea region: “A lot of people love boats, but they don’t see many of these destinations properly, as you can’t access many of them by plane. Most people who visit Italy or Greece don’t get to see the islands from a yachting perspective, so that’s where I come in. I love visiting capital cities like London, Rome and Paris, but they do not represent the only beauty in the world.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224009/image/large-a5575be25ca52d830789ed3baf059b76.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224009">It is clear from talking to Tarek that his Instagram has played a key role in helping to develop the nascent superyacht industry in the Red Sea region. As he explains: “The Red Sea is a natural paradise, with its numerous islands, protected bays and coral reefs. Over the years, I have seen the number of local yachting enthusiasts grow substantially, and I would love to see more international yachting enthusiasts coming to visit our amazing locations such as Hurghada, El Gouna and Sharm el-Sheikh and to enjoy the best of what the area has to offer during winter.”He continues, “Many boat owners in the area were excited when they saw all of our adventures and wanted to do the same, so I helped them get in contact with good, reliable charter companies to make it happen. Some owners also wanted to buy new boats and start using them in the Mediterranean, because although the Red Sea is a fantastic destination, it gets very hot in summer.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224024/image/large-5d855f4571f86bf11e6da9ddcfffe111.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224024">In the interests of full disclosure, it is worth noting that Tarek has the role of Managing Director and owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Yachts (Company)">Princess Yachts</a> Egypt and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> Egypt – and thus has clear motivation for aiding the industry’s growth in the region. However, when speaking with this owner, it quickly becomes apparent that his passion for boating runs deep, and is personal, not just professional. Indeed, when Tarek came to buy his first boat – a 48-footer (14.6 metres) back in 2007 – he was working in other businesses, including the food industry, only adding yachting to his portfolio in 2009. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224022/image/large-2807cbf953a43bbdb4f301b79ab0bf68.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224022">Notwithstanding the rosy image of yachting splashed across Tarek’s Instagram, he is refreshingly frank about the less glamorous sides of superyacht ownership. “I’m a mechanical engineer by background. Things do go wrong on boats, so in order to be able to skipper my boat myself, and to take full responsibility for it, I also need to be able to resolve the problems which are associated with this hobby. Speaking personally, it actually adds to my passion for yachting.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224020/image/large-ad3259e6b210fdfd58ee4c5445818ed8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224020">Alongside his social media presence, Tarek’s influence in yachting is also evident in more subtle ways. As he explains, “I always pay a lot of attention to the crew quarters in the design phase of a new boat, as these can sometimes be compromised in the process of laying it out. I make sure these are as large as possible and have the most comfortable possible seating areas.” He continues, “Designers and shipyards design and build great boats, but they don’t use them, they only test them – and that’s the key difference. In my case, as I drive the boat myself, I am both captain and owner, so I know both what the crew wants and how to optimise the layout to make it fit. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> has always appreciated the value of these layout changes, and has sometimes even considered including these as standard options for their future builds!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224023/image/large-5816ae8a52434cf33c370d8521a31fb2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224023">That said, to quote the ever-wise Uncle Ben from the Spiderman films: “with great power comes great responsibility”. This is an adage which is taken seriously by Tarek, who makes a point of promoting sustainable and responsible yacht ownership.“I always tell potential owners, both friends and customers, to start with a small boat, then there is no major loss if you decide that this isn’t the hobby for you and don’t end up tied to a large asset. Start small and develop from there. Despite the cost, I think of yachting as an investment in pleasure. There are not many hobbies out there which you can do with all of the family – from kids to grandparents – and all the generations can have the most fantastic time together on board.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224011/image/large-c61cbc88175510bff8118008fa703c68.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224011">Furthermore, Tarek also ensures that he dots every ‘i’ and crosses every ‘t’ when it comes to owning and operating his fleet. He has obtained the necessary qualifications and certifications for every boat he owns, allowing him to operate the vessels independently and travel safely to far-flung destinations. He explains: “I want to promote the message that anyone who wants to take on owning and operating a boat should get the proper yacht licences and certificates first. This will add to your confidence at the helm and make your experience on the water even better!”Looking to the future, Tarek has one more <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ACE29.1m (95'6&quot;)Sanlorenzo2021">ACE</a> up his sleeve, with a 33-metre yacht under the same name currently in build at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> which is slated for delivery in the first quarter of 2023. As for where he’ll be taking the yacht on her first outing, it is clear that social media has also worked its magic on this particular owner. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224006/image/large-f8bb364e7abb848d16ff34eae4d7cdf7.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224006">“I always feel jealous when I see all of these pictures of the white sands and the beautiful little islands of the Caribbean, so I am determined to get there myself. I’ve only ever seen it on Instagram and in the movies, and so it will be an absolute dream come true to be able to take <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ACE29.1m (95'6&quot;)Sanlorenzo2021">ACE</a> there in 2023.”This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-42" target="_blank">Issue 41 of SuperYacht Times newspaper.</a>&nbsp;To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

Sanlorenzo yacht ACE owner Tarek Khalil

Georgia Tindale discovers how owner Tarek Khalil is driving the Red Sea’s rise in yachting

Acing it: Tarek Khalil on his ownership of the 29m Sanlorenzo yacht ACE

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Inmarsat plc (Company)">Inmarsat</a> has been acquired by the global communications company Viasat. The combined company enhances the scale and scope to continue to drive growth in the increasingly dynamic and competitive satellite communications industry. The employees of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Inmarsat plc (Company)">Inmarsat</a> will retain their roles under the new ownership, and Rajeex Suri and Andy Sukawaty, CEO and Chairman, will join the Viasat Board of Directors.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251466/image/large-5d9ca2aceec40452a7ab1bf77d737e3a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251466">The company’s assets, once fully integrated, are expected to increase the pace and scope of innovation in the global satellite connectivity sector, offering new and improved capabilities to customers that will address the ever-increasing speed, flexibility, reliability, coverage and security they demand.“We are thrilled to welcome <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Inmarsat plc (Company)">Inmarsat</a>’s employees, customers, shareholders and partners into the Viasat ecosystem,” said Mark Dankberg, Chairman and CEO, Viasat. “The combination of our companies brings together the people, technology, innovation, network assets, spectrum resources and global partnerships needed to help connect the world more affordably, securely and reliably. Together, we believe we are positioned to offer customers a multi-layered network that gives them the right connectivity at the right time, place and price.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251465/image/large-65250364f6dfbf29802d99a42e82cf83.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251465">“Thanks to all those who worked so tirelessly and thoroughly to complete this transaction,” said Dankberg. “I’d also like to thank the Viasat team and the leadership team at Inmarsat, especially the contributions of Rajeev Suri, Inmarsat CEO, and Andy Sukawaty, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Inmarsat plc (Company)">Inmarsat</a> Chairman. Rajeev and Andy will be joining the Viasat Board of Directors as representatives of the prior <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Inmarsat plc (Company)">Inmarsat</a> private equity ownership consortium. I look forward to their continued contributions to the company.”The combined company will continue to be led by Mark Dankberg as Chairman and CEO and Guru Gowrappan as President. Viasat also reconfirmed that its new global international business headquarters will be in London. Corporate headquarters will continue to be in Carlsbad, California. Further decisions regarding organizational structure and leadership will be determined as part of the ongoing integration process.“Our goal is to be the undisputed leader in satellite communications with a sharp focus on providing the best products and services for our customers,” said Gowrappan. “We are more than the sum of our parts. This combination broadens the global fixed and mobile services available to customers in an industry-defining moment. We intend to move quickly to bring the best from each company together in a way that creates much deeper value for our stakeholders and ensures we deliver on our synergy commitments.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/195034/image/large-e11ca4b857f5c9a2b385bfc4f99ce95d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/195034">“Satellite communications is a hugely significant and strategic global market for the U.K. space sector, now poised for an exciting next phase,” said George Freeman MP, the U.K.’s Minister of State at the Department of Science, Innovation &amp; Technology. “The combination of Viasat and Inmarsat creates a global leader in satellite communications here in the U.K. It brings significant investment, hundreds of new highly skilled jobs and will serve as a catalyst for substantial economic growth. Having met both companies, I look forward to working with them as we use the U.K.’s regulatory freedom and leadership to support advanced technologies to boost the space economy’s productivity, profitability and sustainability.”Under the terms of the purchase agreement, at the closing of the transaction, Inmarsat’s shareholders received an aggregate of $551 million in cash, subject to adjustments, and approximately $46.36 million shares of common stock. The cash portion of the purchase price was reduced from $850 million to $551 million after Inmarsat paid a $299 million special dividend to its shareholders in April 2022. The shares issued to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Inmarsat plc (Company)">Inmarsat</a> shareholders at the closing represent an aggregate of approximately 37.6 percent of the total shares of Viasat common stock on a fully diluted basis, with no Inmarsat shareholder receiving shares representing 10% or more. In connection with closing of the acquisition on May 30, 2023, Viasat drew down on approximately $1.35 billion of its committed financing package, including a $617 million secured term loan facility and a $733 million unsecured bridge loan. The lower financed amount reflects in part the reduction in the cash component of the purchase price.

Inmarsat acquired by Viasat

Inmarsat has been acquired by global communications company Viasat.

Inmarsat acquired by global communications company Viasat

The UAE-based property developer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7043" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nakheel Marinas (Company)">Nakheel</a> has announced a new marina, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7173" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nakheel Dubai Islands Marinas (Company)">Nakheel Marinas Dubai Islands</a>. The new marina can accommodate up to 13 superyachts, with 248 wet berths for yachts up to 47-metres and dry berths for trailers up to 20-metres. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251709/image/large-9e8da947f36c6ae5ba54c5398f12c52a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251709">Situated along Dubai’s northern coastline at Dubai Islands, the new marina offers 24 hour dock assistance, club car transfer, waste collection and free wifi, among other amenities. The Dubai Islands Beach is within walking distance from the marina.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7043" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nakheel Marinas (Company)">Nakheel</a> also owns the two Palm Jumeirah Marinas on the east and west sides of the Palm Jumeirah and the two marinas can accommodate yachts up to 40-metres. &nbsp;Over recent years, Dubai has seen a major investment in the yachting facilities, with the construction and development of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6804" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dubai Harbour Marina (Company)">Dubai Harbour Marina</a> and the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mina Rashid Marina (Company)">Mina Rashid Marina</a>. With this investment, many European and American companies have opened office in Dubai, including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons International</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a>, securing the region's position as a major player in the international yachting industry.In 2022, SuperYacht Times acquired the Gulf Superyacht Summit, and in November hosted the first edition of the event. To find out more about the summit, to inquire about partnerships and tickets, you can find all the information of the website here: <a href="https://www.gulfsuperyachtsummit.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">gulfsuperyachtsummit.com</a>

Nakheel Marinas Dubai Islands opened

Dubai property developer Nakheel has opened a new marina in Dubai Islands.

Nakheel unveils new superyacht marina in Dubai Islands

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a>, a key player in yachting innovation and a part of the renowned <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti Group</a>, presents its latest model, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12820" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY15024.06m (78'11&quot;)">wallywhy150</a>, at the esteemed Salone Nautico Venezia. The magnificent backdrop of the Arsenale sets the stage for the awaited unveiling of this new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a> model, which continues to redefine the boundaries of yacht design. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272305/image/large-b13ba5d8b03fdf95ea029f0076b49ad1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272305">Crafted by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a>-<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> engineering team, with interior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/289" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Vallicelli Design (Company)">Studio Vallicelli Design</a>, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12820" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY15024.06m (78'11&quot;)">wallywhy150</a> embodies unrivalled exterior spaces on the 24.06-metre yacht, revolutionising the concept of a raised pilothouse design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240969/image/large-6f2c8eaeed26d90f395d478ea8d3fc4d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240969">Stefano de Vivo, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally's</a> Managing Director, elaborates on the vision behind the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12820" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY15024.06m (78'11&quot;)">wallywhy150</a>: "Our objective was to anticipate market demands by developing a yacht that stays ahead of its time, drawing inspiration from the innovative features that made the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/10773" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY20027.03m (88'8&quot;)">wallywhy200</a> a resounding success. With its impressive 24-metre length and 150 GT, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12820" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY15024.06m (78'11&quot;)">wallywhy150</a> is a versatile vessel, ideally suited for experienced owners who truly appreciate the masterful utilisation of space, expansive living areas, and its unmistakable personality. For nearly three decades, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a> has been at the forefront of designing and constructing cutting-edge yachts, spearheading epochal changes in yacht design. We are confident that the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12820" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY15024.06m (78'11&quot;)">wallywhy150</a> will establish itself in diverse international markets."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240970/image/large-d53641cb85dba30603e3c40f5f2013fc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240970"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233568/image/large-d3f32291eb15820ba93695365be64ecd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233568">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12820" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY15024.06m (78'11&quot;)">wallywhy150</a> sets new benchmarks for its size with its unparalleled exterior areas. The upper deck offers expansive open space, providing an immense amount of protected area. Onboard, owners and guests can relish a complete dining setting on the sundeck, a sunbathing area, a shaded lounge, and much more – almost the entire length of the vessel is dedicated to outdoor leisure and relaxation. A noteworthy feature of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12820" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY15024.06m (78'11&quot;)">wallywhy150</a> is the floor-to-ceiling glass that dominates its design, enhancing the yacht's allure.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240971/image/large-836df6d7e40c3dea2f8922c27dcce133.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240971">Accommodation on the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12820" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY15024.06m (78'11&quot;)">wallywhy150</a> includes a forward master suite on the main deck, reminiscent of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/10773" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY20027.03m (88'8&quot;)">wallywhy200</a>, offering unobstructed 270-degree panoramic views and a striking grand "amphitheatre of the sea" design, courtesy of its unusually high bow. Additional accommodations are located on the lower deck, which can be configured as a VIP, a double, and a twin guest suite or as a two VIP cabin layout. All staterooms benefit from the ample natural light streaming through the vast windows, creating an airy and contemporary ambience onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233570/image/large-8fd9cede24495563e986f9969ea912c6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233570">Luca Bassani, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally's</a> Founder and Chief Designer, highlights the primary reason for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12820" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY15024.06m (78'11&quot;)">wallywhy150's</a> uniqueness: "It is the simplicity and accessibility of the layout that makes it immensely appealing to a wide range of clients – it provides the ultimate flexible platform for those seeking to expand the boundaries of traditional planing-craft usage. This vessel is the first to offer direct access to the sea at cockpit level without the need for stairs; it is effectively a floating loft on the water."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233571/image/large-f4a10353012d87bcea2a112e2b8faa33.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233571">The aft deck of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12820" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY15024.06m (78'11&quot;)">wallywhy150</a> presents a spacious and unobstructed platform featuring a hydraulic multipurpose ladder and a rising platform. Owners can customise this area according to their preferences, accommodating various water toys and a large 3.90-metre tender.Equipped with optional three IPS1350 engines, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12820" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally WHY15024.06m (78'11&quot;)">wallywhy150</a> can achieve an impressive maximum speed of 23 knots, while the standard propulsion of three IPS1200 engines ensures a cruising speed of 17 knots.&nbsp;

Wally debuts wallywhy150 at the Venice Boat Show 2023

Wally unveils the innovative wallywhy150 described as the “floating loft on the water,” at the Venice Boat Show 2023. 



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Wally debuts the wallywhy150 “floating loft on the water” at the Venice Boat Show 2023

The French electrical and electromechanical services company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)">Yachtelec</a> has been acquired by the ship repair and maintenance group AMARIX, the owner of MACOR and ETI Services companies. Amarix has acquired a 100 percent stake in the company which is based at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="La Ciotat Shipyards (Company)">La Ciotat Shipyards</a> in the South of France. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system" target="_blank">Yachtelec</a> was founded in 2007 and has worked on more than 700 major yacht projects, with major industry names including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272302/image/large-ea0546e0c00d33ed24f4d6320c131573.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272302">The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, is part of a wider strategy to increase the group’s market presence and to leverage the turnkey project capability of the company’s MACOR brand in the international superyacht sectors. MACOR specialises in the repair of mechanical and hydraulic systems and machinery, fabrication, and pipework. Since its formation in 1986, the company’s four business units has worked on more 3,000 vessels and represents some of the maritime industry’s market leading OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), operators and managers.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272303/image/large-e4cbb96766566bd6db8ae9ff0b316b1a.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272303"></a>“The acquisition of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)">YACHTELEC</a> makes complete sense and strengthens the group’s portfolio,” said AMARIX founder Nicolas Martinetti. “With <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)">YACHTELEC</a> joining the group’s MACOR and ETI Services brands we close the circle to provide a complete turnkey services solution, covering all mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, electromechanical, and electronic systems onboard. We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues to the AMARIX family, now counting 75 employees, and working with them to ensure a seamless transition for our new clients and customers,” he said.Commenting on the developments taking place in the luxury yacht market, Xavier Deval, Amarix Group's Business Director, said: “It is forecast that that the luxury yacht will grow by 8% in the next five years, with the trend being for larger vessels. We are already seeing some yacht refit yards invest in facilities to meet the demand for larger, longer tonnage. But owners are also looking for models with a higher degree of customisation and features, such as state-of-the-art lighting and audio systems. We can now meet this demand. The inclusion of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)">YACHTELEC</a> to our portfolio significantly strengthens our network, almost doubling the number of technical experts and specialists we have in the field.”&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtelec (Company)">Yachtelec</a> Director Remi Colace said: "The acquisition and integration in to AMARIX Group is a great step forward for YACHTELEC, ensuring brands continued development and growth trajectory. This makes us stronger and able to offer more technical packages and expertise to our superyacht customers and more."&nbsp;

Amarix Group acquires Yachtelec

The ship repair and maintenance group Amarix has acquired French electrical and electromechanical services company YACHTELEC. 

Repair and maintenance group Amarix acquires electromechanical services company Yachtelec

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6468" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Next Yacht Group (Company)">Next Yacht Group</a> has announced the launch of the 34.99-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maiora (Company)">Maiora</a> 35 Exuma yacht. The Maiora 35 Exuma yacht is characterised by her impressive performance and expansive interior spaces.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271066/image/large-c7249531e1b5d86d843b54275e5e6845.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271066">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maiora (Company)">Maiora</a> 35 Exuma yacht showcases a straight bow and fully open stern and is constructed from a composite material. She boasts sleek and stylish lines with a sporty exterior profile and a bespoke interior design.The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maiora (Company)">Maiora</a> 35 Exuma yacht has been customised to meet the needs of her owner, with her pilot house positioned forward on the main deck. A second pilothouse can be found on the upper deck, allowing the owner to control her, while surrounded by friends and family.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272292/image/large-2d84df21bffb9ac88fb075dc34d04b3c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272292">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maiora (Company)">Maiora</a> 35 Exuma can accommodate up to 11 guests in 5 staterooms consisting of a full-beam master stateroom, located forward on the main deck and four VIP suites on the lower deck. She also has accommodation for a crew of six.Glass has been used extensively on the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maiora (Company)">Maiora</a> 35 Exuma yacht with floor-to-ceiling windows in her main saloon and guest accommodations. Her upper deck features a 47 square-metre saloon, which can be easily converted into over 130 square-metres by opening a door, sliding the “moon-roof” open, and lowering the side glazed surfaces.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272291/image/large-d274b6d0a86d4cca227b2122c1a071d4.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272291">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maiora (Company)">Maiora</a> 35 Exuma yacht is able to store a 6.5-metre tender in the side garage, while a second garage located aft can fit a 3.5-metre service tender and countless toys. 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> 2,000 horsepower engines, which provide her with a top speed of almost 35 knots.

Maiora 35 Exuma yacht launch

Next Yacht Group has announced the launch of the 35m Maiora 35 Exuma yacht.

Next Yacht Group launches Maiora 35 Exuma yacht

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2973" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Moments (Company)">Yacht Moments</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/58" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luca Dini Design & Architecture (Company)">Luca Dini Design &amp; Architecture</a> have unveiled the renderings for a new 49.9-metre superyacht concept. The steel and aluminium motor yacht is a joint development and has been designed for those who want to experience sea life to the fullest.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272259/image/large-37e3b6c9fde660e58dc1de5ee8848de5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272259">The 49.9-metre superyacht concept is characterised by a sleek and sporty design with curved, soft and sinuous lines. She features interior and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/58" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luca Dini Design & Architecture (Company)">Luca Dini Design &amp; Architectur</a>e and takes inspiration from modern and futuristic silhouettes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272247/image/large-73cf166ab860fb1b3e4281aa0047c0fb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272247">The yacht features large open spaces and large windows to allow guests to enjoy the full view of the panorama. Attention to detail can be seen in her gunwales which have been hollowed out and reduced to a minimum, so that the view from inside encounters as few obstacles as possible.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272246/image/large-51589d376907446d0ebfddd4fa49f052.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272246">Her modern and futuristic interior features organic shapes with cutting-edge technologies. She uses high-quality materials such as Macassar ebony wood and high-gloss metals to create a play of light and a luxurious atmosphere.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272248/image/large-681ee2dc92818d3d3653e620767c2c8b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272248"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272255/image/large-92a7e4637e0e904fe3027bc4bbb0a823.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272255"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272252/image/large-5eb1df57f1933af3cb9b6740be997953.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272252">The superyacht can comfortably sleep up to 12 guests across six staterooms, as well as a crew of nine across five cabins.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272260/image/large-13f7ccecfe7141f0ceee13d48fa97407.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272260">Key features onboard the superyacht include her main deck aft cockpit, which was raised to maximise the height of the beach club below. The open terrace provides 180-degree views, with a large Jacuzzi and adjoining sunbathing area. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272244/image/large-a17c8b53f19743b482575d3641e4f629.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272244">From here there is easy access to the upper deck aft, which includes an alfresco dining and lounge area. A multipurpose platform is located beyond the wheelhouse and can be used as a sunbathing area with freestanding furnishings, party deck, and a touch-and-go helipad.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272245/image/large-3ffd16b8e2f25610ec39200f4558894f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272245">Her sundeck is home to a freshwater pool with Jacuzzi functions and a glass bottom. A second pool on the aft deck will also be equipped with glass bottom and Jacuzzi functions and will have a jet-nozzle to create a current for swimming.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272243/image/large-56e0e858b44376c67e3b830eb0500040.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272243">The superyacht features an extensive beach club with a moveable lifting system swimming platform. The area can be opened from three sides, allowing for a constant flow of air and light to create a multifunctional area.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272257/image/large-d82e1d5562cde902c6801993e3881ead.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272257">Her bow features a covered mooring area with adjoining garage for a tender and Jet Ski, and part of the deck can be lifted, thanks to a hydraulic system to allow the crew access to this area without any interruptions to her guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272242/image/large-3e97b1b406f4cb36476add10bd602151.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272242">In terms of propulsion, the 50m superyacht can be 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> or <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines which will provide her with a cruising speed of 14 knots and a top speed of 16 knots.

Luca Dini 50m superyacht concept

Yacht Moments and Luca Dini Design & Architecture have unveiled the renderings for a new 50m superyacht concept. 

New 50m superyacht concept with futuristic interiors and floating aft deck

Turkey-based shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4644" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AKYACHT (Company)">AKYACHT</a> has announced that they have signed a contract for a new 100 plus-metre superyacht. The steel and aluminium motor yacht will be the largest yacht built at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1452" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lloyd's Register (Company)">Lloyd's</a>-certified shipyard and has an expected delivery date of 2027.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272216/image/large-30ecf66582fba3fac855139b828ac216.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272216">According to the shipyard, the 100 plus-metre superyacht “combines uncompromised luxury, technology, engineering, and propulsion for a very-experienced client.” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4644" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AKYACHT (Company)">AKYACHT</a> are no strangers to large builds, with their first breakthrough project <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1591" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Victorious85.01m (278'11&quot;)AKYACHT2021">Victorious</a> measuring 85.01-metres.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1591" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Victorious85.01m (278'11&quot;)AKYACHT2021">Victorious</a> was delivered in 2021 and was one of the most show stopping yachts on display at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/97" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2021">Monaco Yacht Show</a> that year. She boasts exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/25" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Michael Leach Design Ltd. (Company)">Michael Leach Design Ltd</a>, with naval architecture by her builder.&nbsp;Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/54057" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Onboard AKYacht's magnificent 85m superyacht Victorious (2021-11-11 10:00:00 +0100)">Onboard AKYacht's magnificent 85m superyacht Victorious</a>With 2,291 GT of interior space, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1591" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Victorious85.01m (278'11&quot;)AKYACHT2021">Victorious</a> features interior design by <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> which have emulated the modernity and grace of a five star hotel. She is able to accommodate up to 24 guests across 12 staterooms, as well as a crew of 28.

AKYACHT 100-metre yacht

AKYACHT has announced that they have signed a contract for a new +100-metre superyacht. 

AKYACHT signs contract for new 100 plus-metre superyacht with 2027 delivery date

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5775" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo SY Refit (Company)">Palumbo SuperYachts Refit (PSY)</a> has announced that they will expand the company's commitment to sustainability in yachting by developing more sustainable measures. Members discussed the future of yachting and ways to make it more environmentally sustainable during a Julius Baer Sustainability Circle event on 4 May at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club de Monaco (Company)">Yacht Club de Monaco</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272210/image/large-1965c1dd5270b57f30a8f954065904aa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272210">The event discussed actions such as the installation of solar panels on key infrastructures, as well as renewable energy sourcing, ways to reduce emissions and research activities.“At <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5775" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo SY Refit (Company)">Palumbo SuperYachts Refit</a>, we believe we are in a good position, as we have always put the process at the centre of our philosophy, which has also meant for some time that we invest in the green transition of infrastructures and procedures in all the yards of the network,” explained Luciano Bregola, Marseille Yard General manager and engineer.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272211/image/large-5c29f2a6d374ad289d90efa6e65d1444.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272211">The event revolved around the future of yachting with the objective to address the challenges of the yachting industry, in regard to its environmental footprint and how this can be reduced. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1757" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo Superyachts (Company)">PSY</a> believes that sustainability starts from people's mindset and develops in the procedures in which yachts are built, managed, converted, and repaired. We acknowledge the importance of individual actions, since together we have the power to deliver a green boost to the market,” explained Luciano Bregola.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226398/image/large-eebaf16cba4bbfdac598e8698268ec06.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226398"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1757" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo Superyachts (Company)">Palumbo SuperYachts</a> already has several ongoing projects and developments to support more sustainable yachting. These include the improvement and expansion of green refitting procedures for yachts, such as eco-friendly paint and advanced water treatment plants. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226399/image/large-2e0a55e82cf6a21294548894f5e0b891.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226399">The company also uses more sustainable technology and renewable energy across boats, shipyards and related facilities, with LED lighting and solar panels. Palumbo SuperYachts has also committed to installing photovoltaic infrastructure across its facilities in the Mediterranean by 2025.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/226396/image/large-330aaaedb6ee254141840d21fbe54500.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/226396">As well as this, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1757" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo Superyachts (Company)">Palumbo SuperYachts</a> is currently working with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1457" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RINA (Company)">RINA</a> on research and development into lithium batteries, green hydrogen, and green methanol. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5775" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo SY Refit (Company)">PSY</a>, together with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1457" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RINA (Company)">RINA</a>, is studying the potential of new fuels that offer the possibility of reducing carbon dioxide emissions through the gradual replacement of fossil fuels by renewable energy,” added Luciano Bregola. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/54847/image/large-a5c62f6145b78682aefa08e81aecee8a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/54847">By expanding its commitment to sustainability, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5775" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo SY Refit (Company)">Palumbo SuperYacht Refit</a> aims to take on a leadership role in the building, refitting, converting and maintaining of superyachts. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5775" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo SY Refit (Company)">PSY</a> acknowledges that the yachting industry still faces different challenges in this area that it is important to tackle, and this is why the company will keep investing in facilities and in research and development activities, with the aim of making the future of the yachting industry greener,” concluded <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1757" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo Superyachts (Company)">Palumbo SuperYachts</a>.

Palumbo SY Refit expands commitment to sustainability in yachting

Palumbo SuperYachts has announced that they will expand the company's commitment to sustainability in yachting with more sustainable measures.

Dutch sailing yachts on the market

Discover the SuperYacht Times covets for Dutch sailing yachts currently for sale. 

Exceptional Dutch sailing yachts for sale

The 25.61-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1302" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kuipers Woudsend (Company)">Kuiper Woudsend</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4037" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Pearl25.61m (84'0&quot;)Kuipers Woudsend2000">Blue Pearl</a> sold in an in-house deal at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>, with Marco Fodale introducing the buyer and seller alongside James Nason.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228559/image/large-17dbce0e768220309170736a32e0253c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228559"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4037" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Pearl25.61m (84'0&quot;)Kuipers Woudsend2000">Blue Pearl</a> was delivered in 2000 from the Netherlands and features exterior and naval architecture from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a>. The pocket explorer yacht is believed to be the last 84 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1302" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kuipers Woudsend (Company)">Kuipers</a> Doggersbank yacht built that was personally overseen by Mr Kuipers.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228561/image/large-7dea575101907117539ddb7971def6dc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228561"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228562/image/large-a6e746422be6ade18286a75c7d784f7e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228562"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228564/image/large-eb693508c1ff296cf4cfbfa6d2d843ff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228564">With 120 GT of interior space and designs from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/31" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="John Munford Design (Company)">John Munford Design</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4037" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Pearl25.61m (84'0&quot;)Kuipers Woudsend2000">Blue Pearl</a>’s interior is finished with traditional wooden walls and cream carpets. She can accommodate as many as six guests between three staterooms, as well as a crew of three in two cabins.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228565/image/large-25cb6385ed6cbde8ade535bc04eb95f1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228565"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228560/image/large-e3843c94c99547b35e1d8c34ef9b9818.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228560">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4037" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Pearl25.61m (84'0&quot;)Kuipers Woudsend2000">Blue Pearl</a> has a top speed of 12 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots, powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines and offering a 4,000 nautical mile range. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4037" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Pearl25.61m (84'0&quot;)Kuipers Woudsend2000">Blue Pearl</a> had a last known asking price of $2,000,000.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/228566/image/large-bc89ff87e4beb7f28c7fe8b733f6379e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/228566">

26m Kuiper Woudsend yacht Blue Pearl sold

The 26m Kuiper Woudsend motor yacht Blue Pearl sold in an in-house deal at Fraser. She had a last known asking price of $2,000,000.

Owner Experience

Owner Feadship The Highlander comments on Ports of Cause