Peter Lürssen, CEO and Managing Partner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>, took the stage during the <a href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gulf Superyacht Summit - 2022">2022 Gulf Superyacht Summit</a>, with Merijn de Waard, founder and director of SuperYacht Times, to deliver the keynote interview of the event.Following the theme of the <a href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gulf Superyacht Summit - 2022">Summit</a>, the conversation began with a discussion on the Gulf as a growing superyacht destination, more particularly, a winter superyacht destination. Peter Lürssen then went into great detail about the current and future operations at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>, with a strong focus on how the shipyard is championing sustainability.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248709/image/large-b5e1cb0591a9f3c6f9a5fc54820f8af7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248709">Peter, you’ve been coming to this region for a long time now. What is your first memory of the Gulf?&nbsp;I’ve been coming to the region for around four decades now, and during those early days, we were building navy ships for Abu Dhabi. It was a great experience. One of my first jobs with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>, around 1988/1998 was working with our team building defence ships for the UAE.How important is the Gulf region for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>?It has shifted; we still do some defence work, but the UAE has been especially good for us as clients. As you know, we’ve built some very prominent yachts, such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4638" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azzam180.61m (592'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2013">Azzam</a>, and we have more under construction. It's a very important region because it has a good demand for large, fast yachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/176515/image/large-60f250126e5cc7d9346eb23a4aff8ef9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/176515">How in your view, can the Gulf attract more superyachts? And have you seen a change already occurred in the last 5-10 years?It has definitely changed over the years, and this current boom is the result of a number of reasons. But, critically, this region is attractive because it offers a lot of interesting destinations, not only the UAE but Oman, Saudi Arabia and the whole coastline of the Red Sea are beautiful cruising grounds. At the same time, places like the UAE offer a lot of attractions on shore.&nbsp;The whole region offers a fantastic package: beautiful waters, great diving, stunning museums and outstanding restaurants. It’s got theme parks and anything you could want – and this is what will attract, and has attracted yachts to come here.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/222566/image/large-fdb715b7de31010691203ba8a7c07df1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/222566">A number of shipbuilders have announced plans to build facilities in the region, is this something that&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>&nbsp;is considering? Or will Germany remain the main focus?&nbsp;The type of yachts that we build requires a lot of infrastructures. For the more traditional yacht builders, it doesn’t matter so much where they build from. For <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>, however, we are reliant on a huge number of subcontractors – and we would then have to bring not only the shipyard but also our large network of suppliers. &nbsp;And that is always something that has put an early stop to the ideas of moving up production to the other parts of Germany. With regards to maintenance, it's something that we always look at. But it would only make sense for us as part of a wider network.Has&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>&nbsp;seen an increased interest in fuel cell technology since it announced its first project last year?&nbsp;There has been a growing interest – but the biggest problem is knowing exactly how reliable these systems are. A lot of the projects and pilot projects I’ve worked on have seen great interest, but there has also been hesitation. I have had a lot of conversations with clients who want to go that way, after they’ve seen the first yacht with the new system in the water.&nbsp;The real jump in interest will come once people have seen the first yacht with a sustainable system with practical use. We have this fantastic owner who listened to the presentation and is very interested in technology. He proposed that if we can meet the conditions, he’ll share the costs. For a shipyard, this is great, as you have the first installation with an owner partially paying the costs. But like I said, once we see yachts in the water performing, that’s when we’ll see a jumpstart for a lot of this development.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248711/image/large-a175fb4f2e8a157807771b1a32fb7180.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248711">And what about fuel technologies, is there one currently ahead of the race?&nbsp;Nobody knows which direction the technology will move; we talk about hydrogen and methanol. But the EU talks about ammonia, which has other problems, and then there’s nuclear, which we can’t exclude at this point in time. It looks as though for the midterm future, methanol will make the race to practical use. A good indicator is the commercial shipping industry; Maersk has just ordered 19 very large container ships based on methanol combustion engines. And it signed a deal in the regions of €10 billion with Spain to produce methodology. Maersk has also signed a similar deal with Egypt.&nbsp;A combination of a methanol combustion engine and the methanol fuel cell caters for different profiles. If you're able to get green methanol, it's the most likely route if we’re to achieve zero emissions by the end of the decade.&nbsp;When can we expect to see a zero carbon emission superyacht?My estimate is by the end of the decade, but things always take longer than we think. We have a delivery for a methanol-powered superyacht at the end of 2024, beginning of 2025. If a client then says they want to go zero emissions based on this technology, then we’re nearly at the end of the decade, purely by delivery. A realistic goal, then, is the end of decade, which is when we should see a sizeable yacht with zero emissions. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248707/image/large-27714d7e2826a9c0a57f0c166a7c84e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248707">Would you say it’ll be easier on bigger boats because you have more space? &nbsp;As was highlighted earlier on at the Summit, yachts never have enough space and a methanol propulsion system takes up more space than a traditional system. For bigger yachts, the cost factor to get zero emissions, or very reduced emissions, is possibly, in relative terms less painful. The question of space is a valid one; I think for very small yachts the compromises a client would have to accept are relatively larger than those for a larger yacht.Do you find that clients and their families are getting more involved in green solutions for their yachts?&nbsp;Green solutions are demanded from a number of parties: firstly, there are the EU regulations and the bank. If you read the ESG questionnaire from the bank, you think about closing on the shipyard because it's not made for shipyards, it's meant for other businesses.&nbsp;Then you have the clients that understand that it's not only the yacht, but also the process to build a yacht. This includes their children and grandchildren who, to speak frankly, can ask some quite nasty questions. Over the past few years, the awareness of climate change and the need for a subsequent change of belief – this has spurred my children and grandchildren, as well as those from our employees and clients to ask questions. This is a permanent topic that we need to live with; and we accept the challenge. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248708/image/large-8741f33737758f08eff837d1f51fb421.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248708">In terms of the market, has this past year been good for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>? And can you say something about the strength of your order book?&nbsp;We have a very good order book and we’re planning to deliver, if all things go well for 2023, a 140-metre superyacht and a 90-metre superyacht. It’s been an exciting year for us, and we’ve been able to more or less refill our deliveries.&nbsp;Is the supply chain still a big challenge or is it already getting better?&nbsp;The supply chains are getting a bit better, but a lot of the equipment out of China is still very much delayed – and it’s getting complicated. But it is not as bad as it used to be at the peak of the pandemic.Another issue we hear a lot is inflation, is that something&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>&nbsp;has had problems with?Last month, I think Germany was running at around 10 percent. What helps us to offset that is the dollar has strengthened by 10 to 15 percent, which makes up a lot of the inflationary pressure. But we've seen extraordinary price increases not only in the raw materials, which are coming down now, like steel, but especially in components, systems, and such where we see more than the standard inflation as price increases.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248710/image/large-f92f2d0fabf9085f58f64f4c9d3e35bd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248710">Would you say that the market is becoming more normal compared to the crazy times of last year?Interestingly enough, in the year with midterm elections, the boat show in Fort Lauderdale is always quiet. But besides the midterms, I think everybody is expecting a recession. The question is, how long will the recession last? One, two or three years, your guess is as good as mine.&nbsp;We will see a slowdown in inquiries, and we've seen it ourselves. We have some very qualified clients that are still optimistic they still want to move on. But the easy buy of a yacht is getting more complicated, part of this is a result of increasing interest rates. Our clients have the possibility to refinance their yachts at very, very good rates. We are seeing the results in the real estate market already, and I think we will see results in the yacht market soon as well.Do you think a slowdown could be good so that there’s not so much pressure on the suppliers?&nbsp;The industry as a whole has not really reset after the pandemic to a normal working mode, in its totality. So maybe a slowdown will help the shipyards, the suppliers and everyone get back into a more normalised rhythm and capacity.&nbsp;<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h3-fbCH0Jx8?&amp;wmode=opaque" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>

2022 Gulf Superyacht Summit: Peter Lürssen’s keynote interview with Merijn de Waard

Azzam yacht by Lürssen in Cadiz, Spain

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Lürssen refit shipyard Germany

Peter Lürssen at the Gulf Superyacht Summit 

Peter Lürssen took the stage during the 2022 Gulf Superyacht Summit, to deliver the keynote interview of the event.

Rooted within a deep tradition of yacht building in the United States, yet far outliving many of its contemporaries, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor Shipyards</a> has expanded exponentially over the past 75 years since its foundation. Famed for its expertise in yacht building, with yachts such as the 85.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/28" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquila85.6m (280'10&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2010">Aquila</a> under its belt, as well as its knowledge for refit, maintenance and yacht repair, the company has built a reputation of excellence over the decades.Having grown from its original yard in New York, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/28" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquila85.6m (280'10&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2010">Derecktor Shipyards</a> now span the East Coast with four major facilities. Its most recent acquisition is the reputed shipyard in Fort Pierce in South Florida, which came under the management of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/28" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquila85.6m (280'10&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2010">Derecktor Shipyard</a> in 2019. The yard offers a totally unique experience for yacht crew during refit and maintenance. We spoke with Justin Beard, Marketing and Sales Development Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/28" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Aquila85.6m (280'10&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2010">Derecktor</a>, to find out a little more about this titan of American yachting. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251765/image/large-20e7c52020c060c2309484b9b543e89a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251765">What were the origins of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor Shipyards</a>&nbsp;and how has it continued after Bob Derecktor?When Bob was in high school, sometime during the 1930s, he designed a 26-foot sloop and built it in his family’s backyard in White Plains, New York – using oak for the frames, fir for the deck and pine for the mast. With the help of a friend, he sailed it to Nova Scotia for the summer.After a couple of years, Bob left college to focus on his passion. He built a 38-foot schooner and sailed it from New York to Baltimore, where he took a job at the Owens Boatyard, advancing quickly through the ranks to become foreman. Eventually returning to the New York area, he worked at the Edgar Johns Shipyard in Rye and Minnefords in City Island, building minesweepers designed to detonate underwater mines during World War II. Bob soon joined the effort himself, enlisting in the U.S. Navy in the early 1940s.&nbsp;During 1947, shortly after returning from the Navy, the young boatbuilder established Robert E. Derecktor, Inc. on Boston Post Road in Mamaroneck, New York. Surrounding himself with talented employees who would continue to grow along with the company, over the years he expanded the yard, following the ebbs and flows of the boatbuilding business — transitioning from wood to aluminium, from cruising boats to race boats, from sail to power, then to larger yachts and commercial boats.Today, four <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a>’s facilities span the Eastern Seaboard of the U.S. from Maine to South Florida, offering vessel owners and operators everything from marina space to superyacht construction. Over more than seven decades, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> has made a name for itself on the global yachting stage, highlighted by the launch of the motor yacht Cakewalk (now Aquila), which at 2,998 tonnes, is the largest yacht ever built in the U.S.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251762/image/large-edb6290204fc28da2a664f527cfda01c.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251762">How did the business evolve from those early days?Transitioning from wood to aluminium, from cruising boats to race boats, from sail to power, then to larger yachts and commercial boats, and now a leader in hybrid vessels… It’s quite the evolution over time. But more than that, from the beginning; has been the driving passion to create, to build, and to innovate - to do things in different and better ways.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251763/image/large-7b5036e878eb4014ff2d8eab901cb78c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251763">Why do you think&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a>&nbsp;has continued to succeed and expand while so many American shipyards have disappeared?Remaining flexible to shifting market demands has driven <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a>’s continued success throughout these seventy-five years. We take pride in the ability of our people to excel in multiple disciplines while continuing to deliver superior craftsmanship, whether working on an ultramodern superyacht or a rugged commercial vessel. This is evident throughout our history where <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> regularly adopted new and revolutionary ways to do things in different and better ways.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251772/image/large-ba7a9f9617057bc1fa1b2b7aa243871c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251772">How does the team manage the shipyards and marinas across the various states?&nbsp;Each <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> yard is uniquely different and structured to serve specific clientele under direction of knowledgeable general managers and experienced tradespeople. Paul Derecktor, President and CEO, works alongside our executive team setting our course for the future, while other business functions like business development, marketing, sales, accounting and purchasing are all centrally managed.The New York yard is a repair and refit hub for the region’s commercial fleet, along with power and sailing yachts under 40 metres. Additionally, the yard continues Bob Derecktor’s legacy of delivering innovative commercial vessels as a leader in hybrid construction and is ideally positioned to support the development of the nation’s emerging offshore wind farm industry. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> Robinhood in Georgetown, Maine, is a relaxing destination marina with a yard capable of accommodating sail and power yachts up to 34 metres.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251769/image/large-8459974c1b884b2fb60ea9ce56f4898f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251769"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> Dania, Florida, is widely recognized as a global leader in expert superyacht repair or complete refit. Our combination of experience, professional project management and never-ending attention to detail is renowned for producing unrivalled results and customer benefit. From our deep, protected 17-acre site to our 900-tonne mobile boat hoist, Dania is set up to handle virtually any project up to 65-metre with minimum stress and maximum efficiency.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> Ft. Pierce was specifically designed and developed with the 75-metre, 900-tonne and up fleet in mind. It’s home to the largest mobile boat hoist in the Western Hemisphere – a massive machine with a 1500-tonne hauling capacity. This new global port of call offers the same superior service and project management <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> clients have come to expect and is conveniently located 45 nautical miles north of West Palm Beach, FL, in the quaint beachside town of Fort Pierce. Situated directly inside Fort Pierce Inlet, the facility offers deep water access to the Atlantic Ocean with unlimited overhead clearance, it’s now an ideal choice for the global fleet of superyachts and large sailing yachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251770/image/large-2ed1e5c9d6494c35283f1b5367fe8e66.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251770">What are the plans for the new facility in Fort Pierce?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> has invested significant resources into Fort Pierce and is committed to creating a shipyard capable of rivalling any in the world. The MBH 1,500 and access to South Florida’s extensive network of specialised marine vendors and subcontractors is imperative, as is the community where captains and their crews will call home during their yard period. Fort Pierce, with its laid-back atmosphere and old Florida vibe, is a special place we believe everyone will enjoy. We welcome the yacht industry to come check it out, one might be surprised at what we have to offer.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251773/image/large-bdde7c5251b78a392a7c30479f6d081b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251773">Will the new construction sector continue to be a focus of the business – do you foresee this expanding as other shipyards close down?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> is more than capable of building a sophisticated luxury yacht, but committing to such a project would depend entirely on scope and yard capacity. Fort Pierce offers more flexibility in accommodating a wider variety of vessels and available workspace. While we haven’t launched a yacht since Cakewalk in 2010, we would certainly be open to discussing opportunities now or in the future. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> will remain an industry leader in the construction of commercial hybrid electric vessels. We are actively developing sustainable propulsion solutions for new build projects and the repowering of existing vessels.With eyes and minds firmly set on the future, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/36" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derecktor Shipyards (Company)">Derecktor</a> will continue to be a stalwart of the American yacht building industry and a reliable face for yacht owners arriving in the U.S. from the world over. We look forward to seeing them in their element this October at the <a href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show - 2022">Fort Lauderdale Boat Show</a>!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>.

The history behind Derecktor Shipyards

Bob Derecktor’s shipyards have been a stalwart of American yacht building for 75 years, we found out a little more about this historic company.

At the shipyard with Derecktor Shipyards: Born in the USA

As the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2023">St Barths Bucket</a> sailing regatta comes to a close,&nbsp;SuperYacht Times&nbsp;spoke with Graham Newton, Captain of two-time St Barths Bucket overall winner <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a>, about <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2023">St Barths Bucket</a> glory, the legacy of the regatta, and sailing in the island’s waters.&nbsp;Widely regarded as one of the finest cruising grounds in the Caribbean, if not the world, sailing in St Barths is a thing of beauty. Situated in the French Antilles, St Barths is one of a collection of islands famed for exemplary sailing conditions against a magnificent backdrop of bold, blue-green waters and pristine coastlines.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/28959/image/large-45b45ded11729e2ad9bb0299ca040bbf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/28959">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2023">St Barths Bucket</a>, one of the world’s most prestigious invitational sailing regattas that welcomes the finest sailors and vessels to the island’s waters, is the pinnacle event. First held in March 1995 and returning year after year, this year’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2023">Bucket</a> marks nearly thirty years of the legendary regatta.Read: <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/st-barths-bucket-2023-results" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">St Barths Bucket 2023: Nakupenda winner, with Red Dragon and Prana awarded special prizes</a>The 66.7-metre sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a> took home the win in the two most recent editions of the regatta. She was victorious in her class — Les Gazelles des Mers — and won the Overall Bucket Winner title in 2019. After Covid19 put the event on hold for three years, Hetairos returned to St Barths to repeat history in 2022, also winning an additional title of Best Starter, awarded in recognition of the yacht that executes the closest start over the course of the regatta.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/71811/image/large-69584f9a0dd3a99d386cb49ba0467feb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/71811">Captain Graham Newton has been with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a> since 2014 and captained her in her two-time Bucket wins. “The first <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2023">St Barths Bucket</a> I competed in was in 2002, and I have since done more on various different boats,” Captain Graham Newton recalled. He continued, “I have been with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a> since 2014, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2023">St Barths Bucket</a> is a highlight of our programme.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262012/image/large-8ca2c0bde90e6d6fc9b15d7397d9c7fe.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262012">The 66.7-metre ketch-rigged sailing yacht was brought to life by heavyweight <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic Yachts</a>, designed by the Amsterdam-based <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dykstra Naval Architects (Company)">Dykstra Naval Architects</a> in cooperation with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/521" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Reichel / Pugh Yacht Design (Company)">Reichel Pugh</a> across the pond in San Diego. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic Yachts</a> built a super lightweight vessel that gives <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a> her great performance and generates so much power,” Captain Graham Newton explained. Shortly into Newton’s time onboard, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a> underwent a rectification period at the Dutch <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters Shipyard</a>. “A lot of her systems and her hydraulics were changed. That time in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters</a> really transformed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a> into the reliable machine that she is today.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/56544/image/large-0ad7a6e288a9bad34d5cc67f7464f33c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/56544">According to her captain and her track record, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a> is a weapon on the water. “She is a powerful beast, and you have to treat her with a lot of respect. If you get it wrong, it catches you out pretty quickly, that’s for sure.” Her emerald green hull stands out against the water, both for its distinctive colour and long, regal waterline.&nbsp;“She is a big, powerful boat, with a long waterline,” Captain Graham Newton explained. “I’ve sailed a lot of miles on her now — probably about 120,000 — and she’s a fantastic boat to sail. She effortlessly eats up the miles, especially out on the ocean.” Indeed, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a> is the largest carbon composite ketch in the world and a force to be reckoned with out on open water. Her ketch rig and lightweight design allow her to cruise powerfully with an air of effortlessness. “She’s a wolf in wolf’s clothing,” laughed Captain Newton.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220440/image/large-0ba37b7249d9bcf1aad6899073675e2a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220440">A native to open water cruising, preparing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a> for a regatta takes effort and expertise. “We put a lot of effort into preparing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetarios</a> for the racecourse,” explained Captain Newton. “It takes us about three or four weeks to transform her from a proper cruising vessel to being race ready. This is a long process, we change the sails and remove a lot from the vessel and set up different systems.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/80402/image/large-467ee25945d9b0cae92db14063587e0d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/80402">Indeed, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a> is often almost double the size of her competitors and when she races must undergo intensive preparation to shift her compatibility from open-water cruising to regattas. “There is a huge amount of workup, training and time and effort put into trying to take home a win,” Captain Newton explained.But when put against more typical purpose-designed performance style vessels, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011">Hetairos</a> is victorious. “In our class, we race alongside other high performance boats. It is a really challenging class to win, and to then win the overall title is not easy. To do it twice in a row, is an incredible achievement,” Captain Newton reminisced. “Her owner had been chasing a grand victory with the boat for a while, so to be able to deliver that to them back in 2019 was fantastic, and then to follow that up with a win last year was pretty special.”<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/592" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hetairos66.7m (218'10&quot;)Baltic Yachts2011"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220437/image/large-3bf65e9b112b8897a9d3e97ee517a9f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220437">Hetairos</a> has 11 permanent crew members, and welcomes an extra 24 bodies exclusively for racing. “The core of the racing team have been with us for many years,” Captain Newton explained. “Having the core crew the same again and again makes such a massive difference. The race crew that we have are a really nice bunch of people who have a lot of respect for the permanent crew. There are no egos there, everyone is there on merit, and there is a fantastic camaraderie.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/220435/image/large-dfacd9d3d71d43c5a89f1866662c0563.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/220435">Camaraderie is the life force of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2023">St Barths Bucket</a>. Looking back to August 1986, one can observe the humble beginnings of the Bucket Regattas, the very first of which was a hastily thrown-together affair in Nantucket, Massachusetts. The originary seeds of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2023">Bucket Regattas</a> were sown in a spirited discussion that took place at a high-society birthday celebration between several yacht owners concerning optimal yacht design and individual sailing prowess.With undisputed bragging rights to last an annum hailed as the grand prize, the following day seven sailing yachts raced on a make-shift 15 nautical mile course around Nantucket Sound. However, participants soon learned that camaraderie formed at sea between like-minded individuals was the greatest prize of all. After a nearby bucket was deemed the perfect commemoration, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2023">Bucket Regatta</a> was born, and the spirit of camaraderie remains the beating heart of the regatta.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/29460/image/large-0ec115066e113aada7f13d410a0a338b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/29460">The course itself is demanding, spanning just over 23 nautical miles. “It is a challenging place to sail at times, especially when you go around the island on day one and three in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2023">Bucket</a>. Particularly last year, when it was very windy,” said Captain Newton. “Out on the eastern side of the island you get big seas and it is pretty breezy.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/29482/image/large-bedbc7adaa16fcaec8401eb16f2b4713.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/29482">For casual sailing, Captain Newton recommended, “The group of islands off the north coast of the St Barths make it brilliant for sailing, as there are some pretty interesting routes.” Here, sailors can find a rugged sailing ground home to a wealth of secluded bays and uninhabited islands and islets. “It is a pretty spectacular place to sail,” Captain Newton continued, “You get a mix of the flat water on the Leeside and big waves out to the east.”St Barths is a charming and flirty Caribbean island with a reputation for its luxurious feel and glitz-studded, lively atmosphere. “St Barths is particularly busy during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/163" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="St. Barths Bucket Regatta - 2023">Bucket</a>,” Captain Newton laughed. “It feels like the Caribbean French Riviera. The island is home to spectacular beaches and beach clubs, making it good fun.”

Hetairos yacht captain's interview

SYT spoke with Graham Newton, Captain of two-time St Barths Bucket overall winner Hetairos, about St Barths Bucket glory and sailing in St Barths

St Barths Bucket: Two-time winner Captain Graham Newton on the glory and the legacy of the regatta

Francois Zuretti is one of the elder statesmen of yacht design. In a rare interview opportunity, SuperYacht Times was invited to visit his home and studio in the south of France.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251947/image/large-a36ab6a395be1d60a171671d61215df0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251947">Modest, unassuming and a little shy, Francois Zuretti may be one the most prolific and distinguished names in the world of superyacht design, but he likes to keep a low profile. In fact, our recent video profile of the French interior designer was the first of its kind, period. Not that he is in need of the publicity, having worked with all the top shipyards on some of the largest superyachts afloat.Zuretti began his design career in the mid-‘70s with&nbsp;Triad Condas, a Paris-based company specialising in the interior design of Middle Eastern palaces, which led to him working for the King of Morocco. He set up his own studio in 1987, first in Geneva before moving to Nice to be closer to his yachting clients on the French Riviera. Interestingly, he chose not to relocate to Monaco, not least because he wanted his company to retain its distinctly French identity.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207091/image/large-d9a7f07880c0f54ee7b05372ceeb1db7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207091"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/13573/image/large-0c51f21446e9cbaee949065f50e04469.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/13573">Zuretti’s first yacht interior was for Eco (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/901" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zeus74.5m (244'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH1991">Zeus</a>), the iconic 75-metre motor yacht designed by Martin Francis and delivered by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blohm & Voss GmbH (Company)">Blohm + Voss</a> in 1991. While Eco was in build, he was also working on 46-metre Shamwari (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/532" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mistress46.0m (150'11&quot;)Benetti SpA1991">Mistress</a>), the first project in a string of collaborations with the Italian builder that culminated in 65-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/607" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ambrosia65.0m (213'3&quot;)Benetti SpA2006">Ambrosia</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>’s first diesel-electric superyacht in 2006.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/607" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ambrosia65.0m (213'3&quot;)Benetti SpA2006">Ambrosia</a>’s sumptuous Art Deco interior for a client in Hong Kong may be lavish by today’s standards, but at the time it was considered the height of luxury for its rare and expensive materials and exquisite craftsmanship. Zuretti’s personal tastes could not be more different and are best reflected in his own home, which he designed himself. Decidedly modernist and rational, the stunning building is set into the hills between Cap-d'Ail and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/174091/image/large-ad1b7760b6be3a55da0ed04ceb3dfb13.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/174091">“Tastes have changed over the past 20 years, but the market has changed more,” says Zuretti from a sitting room with stunning views of the coast through floor-to-ceiling windows. “New clients have brought new developments. Before my clients had a stronger relationship with the sea, the boats were smaller and people were closer to the water. Life aboard a 45-metre yacht is centred around the sea, but on a 150-metre superyacht you need other activities like spas and cinemas. We’re working on a project at the moment that has a full-size tennis court, for example. I’m not sure it’s all good for the yachting business, but it has certainly helped to develop new materials and concepts.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/223388/image/large-074e023730e2605abe0ba60d1240f0b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/223388">Zuretti started out with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> but quickly moved on to work with the leading north European shipyards, including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lurssen</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>. Sadly, most of these yachts are strictly private and the designer is unable to discuss them, but his studio has been involved in multiple projects over 100 metres. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a> is a more recent client and Zuretti devised the interior of its 78-metre custom project <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Energy77.8m (255'3&quot;)Amels2022">Energy</a> with exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/82" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Espen Øino International (Company)">Espen Øino</a>that left the shipyard last July. The studio describes the project as “the perfect combination of good production processes and bespoke design.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/174094/image/large-41a16e4a10044301f253ba0c6f1e6eff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/174094">Watch:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55899" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Video: At the studio with Francois Zuretti of Zuretti Interior Design (2022-09-12 14:00:00 +0200)">Video: At the studio with Francois Zuretti of Zuretti Interior Design</a>Zuretti is still the creative heart of the company that bears his name, but the daily operations are overseen by his general manager, Sebastien Gey, who is responsible for a 50-strong multinational staff that occupies an entire floor of a stately building in the Belle Epoque style close to the seafront in Nice. A civil architect and designer, but also a naval architect and passionate sailor, it is Sebastien’s job to manage a team that has up to a dozen superyacht and residential projects on the go at any one time.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261469/image/large-f07ee8303e98a7c24f4cbff8ad5e5c31.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261469">“To offer the best quality you need the best team,” says Sebastien. “We have very talented designers, architects and project managers. We create all our own renderings in-house, and we have the best people for that as well. Managing all these people and bringing them together to realise projects for our clients is challenging, but a talent we need to have as a company is to find the right people and build a good team.”The residential and yacht design teams worked in separate offices, but a few years ago it was decided to bring them together to encourage the exchange of skills and ideas (Zuretti explains, only half-jokingly, that the move also avoided petty in-house rivalries as the yacht designers were prone to think of themselves as a cut above their residential design colleagues). Since the beginning, however, the company has remained true to its name and avoided the temptation to expand into designing yacht exteriors. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261468/image/large-0a0c6af22bd2981b49240226df114d60.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261468">“The temptation is always there, of course,” says Sebastien, “but we are most successful when we work with the best exterior designers. We try to be the best for the interiors, so the combination means we can create the best project for our clients.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261467/image/large-9cc7a2078af026e6b7d4c7378fbbf676.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261467">A custom interior is the result of an owner’s personal taste and the designer’s creative vision, but whatever a client’s preferred style, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuretti Interior Design (Company)">Zuretti Interior Design</a>aims to bring to each project what Sebastien calls ‘veracity’, or a thorough understanding of the chosen style.“We’ve worked on very classic and very contemporary, even minimalist, interior designs,” he says. “In each case, you have to approach the project firstly with passion, but also with knowledge. So we thoroughly study a particular style to capture its reality. Of course, it may have to be adapted to suit the spaces and dimensions, but we’re always looking for veracity – this is very important.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261465/image/large-92fbebb785ce71627038cd6797c9d0b3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261465">One of Zuretti’s sons, Matthieu, works in the company as procurement director &amp; quality manager. His job was made especially difficult when Covid precautions made it more difficult to meet in person with suppliers, and the challenges continue post-pandemic at a time when supply chains are so unpredictable.“Two thirds of our meetings need to be face-to-face, because you have to see the materials and see how something works.,” he explains. “Pictures or videos can never give you the same feeling you get by opening the door of a cabinet, when you can feel if it works smoothly or there is something rattling inside. You need to be on site to control the quality.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261466/image/large-92717969b1d93f562038b141e8b30e38.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261466">After more than 30 years in the business and now aged 70, Zuretti is looking to take a step back and prepare Matthieu and Sebastien to take over the running of the business – by no means a straightforward task for someone addicted to design that finds it hard to delegate. A new office in Dubai has been tasked with developing the Middle Eastern market and the firm is growing its superyacht clientele in the Americas. Having designed so many custom furniture pieces over the years, the studio is also pondering its own branded line of high-end furniture. &nbsp;“I have so many stamps in my passport from around the world, but each of those represent a day or two spent with a client,” he says. “I was always too busy to explore the countries I’ve been to, so now I’d like to enjoy life a little more. I think I still have a lot to offer my team, but I have to learn to leave them alone to create the Zuretti of tomorrow. I’m already surprised sometimes at what a great job they do without me!”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>.

Interview with Francois Zuretti

In a rare interview opportunity, SYT was invited to visit his home and studio in the south of France.

At the studio with Francois Zuretti of Zuretti Interior Design

Valentina Zannier has spent the last 21 years at the Italian design studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a>, working her way up from junior assistant to her current position as Chief Interior Designer. Today Valentina works on some of the most coveted superyachts in the world – we met during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2022">Monaco Yacht Show</a> where the recently delivered 115-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahpo115.1m (377'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Ahpo</a> was demonstrating to the world exactly what the designer has to offer. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260405/image/large-656894b2bf2925e80648de81532b4bdb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260405">Having originally studied architecture at the Università Iuav di Venezia, her flair for interior design may be something of a surprise, but Valentina explains that art and design was always her passion. However, at 18 she followed her parents advice, shying away from art school at the last minute to take on a ‘more serious’ path through academia. Six years into a role at an architectural firm, one or her colleagues mentioned that their neighbour (a designer) was looking for someone who was talented at sketching by hand. The design studio turned out to be <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a>, and despite never having seen a superyacht, and suffering from interminable seasickness, she took the role, never looking back. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/204398/image/large-37dac33c78cf5e7d480b0d005876bd51.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/204398">In her two decades, Valentina has worked on some of the industries most recognisable yachts, and as the negotiations for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahpo115.1m (377'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Ahpo</a> began, Valentina and the team were in the final stages of delivering <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6426" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nord141.63m (464'8&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Nord</a>, the military-esque 141.63-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> which was launched in June 2020. Valentina explains, “The design and completion of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6426" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nord141.63m (464'8&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Nord</a> was an intense period for the studio, the owner’s had a singular vision for how they wanted their vessel to be completed and I worked closely with them for many years. It's a project we are all very proud of, and I hope we will be able to share with the industry one day!” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/257545/image/large-d758009f3b2febb498ff2d214d9c7953.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/257545">Like many designers of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a>’s calibre, it is a rare thing when owners allow the interiors of their yacht to be shared, with many of these larger superyachts remaining with a single owner for decades and operating privately. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahpo115.1m (377'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Ahpo</a>, therefore, offers Valentina a unique opportunity to showcase her style and the work of her team. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/257551/image/large-46df41a62f9211255742c9f6d882c1e5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/257551">“I had worked with the owners of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahpo115.1m (377'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Ahpo</a> on their previous superyacht, the 86-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3678" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Quattroelle86.11m (282'6&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2013">Quattroelle</a>, which they sold shortly after her launch in 2013. At the time of her sale the owner’s reached out to us and said they would return to the yachting industry and when they entered negotiations for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahpo115.1m (377'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Ahpo</a>, we were involved from the start. Her interiors [which were first unveiled earlier this year when she joined the charter market with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moran Yacht & Ship (Company)">Moran Yacht &amp; Ship</a>] are bright, open and romantic and truly encapsulate my personal style.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/257540/image/large-3b1bb9fecfe467d82a7c80480481151b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/257540">Organic forms and open spaces decked with opulent materials and furnished in a rich yet comfortable style define <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahpo115.1m (377'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Ahpo</a>’s expansive interiors, which become more formal the higher you go. Each deck is home to a distinct aesthetic, with sometimes surprising material choices that were really embraced by the owners. A perfect example of this is the winter garden on the upper deck which is home to a full rattan dining and lounge set by Italian designer Bonacina. Traditionally associated with English kitchen gardens, rattan is perhaps a surprising choice for a superyacht, but one which finds a harmonious place aboard this extravagant superyacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/257534/image/large-abe47563960f322611788d24d50dc10a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/257534">As Chief Interior Designer, there is always one project that dominates the studio’s attention, but fortunately for Valentina, creativity has always flowed freely. “Once I am comfortable with a project, I find that the creative elements come very easily to me. Of course we are occasionally asked to do things we don't agree with, but after 20 years at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a> and with many repeat owners, our clients truly trust in us and our advice, which is a wonderful thing.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/257527/image/large-58da62133418348a423e0cd3908cf44c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/257527">Projects like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahpo115.1m (377'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Ahpo</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6426" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nord141.63m (464'8&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Nord</a> and the 106.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a>, which was delivered in 2018, redefine the concept of custom. Not only are the yacht exteriors new and innovative, but every iota of the interiors are custom designed and created, from the furniture, to the carpet threads. With many projects in the pipeline and a number currently under negotiation, Valentina and her team are busy despite the finalisation of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahpo115.1m (377'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Ahpo</a>, but any spare time is spent researching and developing new materials and design motifs to be employed in future projects. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/103519/image/large-a565345fb3ac5d428369ec0a4127b345.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/103519">When it comes to impressive portfolios, that of Valentina and of the entire <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a> team really takes the biscuit. Valentina has built her career aboard some of the most impressive superyachts in the global fleet, and she is currently working on the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA</a> Sportiva 66-metre which is due for delivery in 2025, a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> project and two vessels under construction in Turkey. We certainly look forward to what comes next and make sure to view the entire interior shoot of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahpo115.1m (377'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Ahpo</a> on SuperYacht Times.&nbsp;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>.

Interview with Valentina Zannier of Nuvolari Lenard

Francesca Webster interviewed Valentina Zannier, Chief Interior Designer at  Nuvolari Lenard about how she built her impressive career. 

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Interview: Two decades of design with Valentina Zannier of Nuvolari Lenard

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a> is an Italian shipyard with a dynasty that spans the best part of a century. Despite being founded in 1945 in Limite sull’Arno to build and repair smaller yachts, by 1956 the yard was moved to Darsena Pisana as it had started signing projects too large for its facility.&nbsp;The shipyard has had an illustrious history, delivering more than 700 yachts &nbsp;– the largest of which being the 43.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1655" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cap de Quers43.6m (143'1&quot;)Cantieri di Pisa2006">Cap de Quers</a>. The 27.43-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nasima 27.43m (89'12&quot;)Cantieri di Pisa2012">Nasima</a> was the yard’s last build, and following her delivery in 2012 the yard closed and was finally sold.&nbsp;The shipyard was bought 18 months ago and is back in business, with a fleet of new projects under its new leadership. SuperYacht Times sat down with CEO Marco Massabò to hear all about it.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260833/image/large-8899422b8b6ae0ea4429c0654f8f493f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260833">What is your background prior to&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a>?&nbsp;Yachts have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My father was a wood master and started working at a shipyard in Imperia, Italy, 70 years ago. I love boats and have professionally sailed for many years, competing from the Optimist to the Maxi yacht regattas – I’ve had a long collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/758" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="North Sails (Company)">North Sails</a>.&nbsp;In 1992 I met Luca Bassani, founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a>, and worked alongside him for 20 years. The brand was missing a refit yard in Italy, so I bought and founded one (WS Shipyard) in Savona. It's been very successful. I then moved into consultancy around 2010, working with clients both in yachting and shipping.&nbsp;I was working with some major players – it was a nice life. But around a year and a half ago, Enrico Gennasio (president and owner of the Alfagomma group) told me he was going to buy <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a>, asking if I wanted to work with him.&nbsp;A great opportunity. I immediately got to work, spending time with naval architects and exterior designers, dreaming up the best yachts we can bring to market. The shipyard had great energy, and a number of great international designers came to visit us. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259110/image/large-dc2f2a0d48808d14b563a945716e4215.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259110"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a>&nbsp;is back building yachts. Do these new models reflect a new vision?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a> is an iconic brand. We’re not here to change the rules, we want to rewrite them. The yachts that we’ve started to build are different from what <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a> traditionally did. But we also want to be different from our competitors.&nbsp;Rather than starting from aesthetics, our primary interest is weight. We want to save as much weight as possible, to build and deliver some of the lightest yachts on the market. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a> yachts are fast, agile, and incredibly sleek and all have shallow drafts. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/258737/image/large-8913f6c24d1edd5383a600b3c775dbbb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/258737">The 25m 80 Veloce – the first&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a>&nbsp;yacht since 2012 – is scheduled for delivery this year. Can you say a few words about her?&nbsp;The 80 Veloce is our first yacht. We wanted to build something that embodies our new philosophy – and she’s crazy fast! She’ll be equipped with three 2,000 horsepower V12 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines that deliver a top speed in excess of 60 knots. The series has been well received and we already have clients signed for the second and third hull.&nbsp;She’s not for everyone though – which is why we’re about to present a Gran Turismo edition to the market. The 80 GT is based on the same lightweight hull yet with a more family-focused design. She’ll also be equipped with two engines, not three. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/258738/image/large-72d27a22a4c507d152fcab6398958f5e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/258738"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a>&nbsp;also presented the new Akhir series. Has this model line been well received and are you considering building on speculation?&nbsp;The Akhir series is a new design for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a> which is offered in three sizes: a 31-metre, a 37-metre and a 42-metre flagship. Much like the 80 Veloce the idea is to keep the weight down as much as possible. The series has a contemporary design and we’re in talks about whether to build the first unit on speculation – it might happen, but I can’t confirm either way at this moment in time. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259105/image/large-50b2769c2995a007591094d39d092014.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259105">Why is weight such an important topic for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a>?Any sailor will tell you the importance of weight – they just will. I’ve personally sailed around the world on some of the world’s most important and fastest boats, and every time their core attribute was weight. However, shipyards and designers rarely consider weight early on when they’re planning a new project. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a> does things differently, it’s my absolute credo. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259106/image/large-848f31e2855eb67f5df5c8156f48eba3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259106">Choosing to build light implies a commitment to delivering yachts with shallow drafts. How else are you trying to maximise this across all your series?&nbsp;We’ll equip both the 80 Veloce and Gran Turismo series with waterjets. Waterjets are the safest way to arrive at high speeds and they can go in really shallow waters. And to overcome issues of sucking up sand (a particular issue in Miami), we’ve added a special sea chest. It's a simple, not crazy innovation.&nbsp;Coming from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a>, I of course have taken inspiration from their model lines and I especially like what they’ve done with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a> 118 Power – the James Bond yacht. But I’ve also listened closely to my friend and naval architect, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1206" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Marco Arnaboldi (Company)">Marco Arnaboldi</a>, who designed many fast boats, including the CDP80 veloce. He’s one of the best in the world when it comes to waterjet technology. We decided to follow him on our design – there isn’t anyone better! <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259100/image/large-e738a900d681e7e9b00f4677cfafd4fd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259100">An automotive designer and America’s Cup engineer collaborating on your designs. How did this come about?It’s simple. We want speed and performance, so why not bring in the best? A typical motor yacht goes around 18 to 20 knots, yet a high-performance America’s Cup sailing yacht reaches speeds of up to 40 knots – it’s a big difference, even if you factor out the foils. At <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a> we want to use this knowledge to study the possibilities of reducing as much drag as possible with our yachts. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260834/image/large-1241be498043c5a2ee330d299e207c7c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260834">For the past 18 months,&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a>&nbsp;has focused exclusively on refits. Why?&nbsp;We weren’t ready for new builds until now, we needed to establish ourselves. When we took over <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri di Pisa (Company)">Cantieri di Pisa</a>, it hadn’t been operating for 10 years. We invested around €1.5 million to renovate the facilities and in the past 18 months, we have worked on 27 yachts, which brings a good level of return for the business: building capital and our reputation.&nbsp;Working as a refit yard has also put us in direct communication with many captains, which is great for our Research &amp; Development. For the past 18 months, we’ve been learning the trouble points and how to build a perfect yacht, designed for the captain.&nbsp;We’ve continued to invest and we’ll soon announce a new facility.&nbsp;

CEO Marco Massabò on the return of Cantieri di Pisa

Cantieri di Pisa is back – and it's back with a number of new projects. SYT sat down with CEO Marco Massabò to hear all about it. 

Bigger, better, faster: The return of Cantieri di Pisa with CEO Marco Massabò

Today (8 March 2023) marks International Women’s Day, a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality in all industries.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227489/image/large-17c5e1deaf6f19225da98b84465e4c31.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227489">A 2021 report conducted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6715" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="She of the Sea (Company)">She of the Sea</a> into diversity within the yachting industry found that of 1,800 crew members employed by contributing management companies, only 28.7 percent of them were women. Even more shocking is that only 1.9 percent of these female crew members were captains.&nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="International Day for Women in Maritime 2022: How the tides are turning for women in yachting (2022-05-18 15:45:00 +0200)">International Day for Women in Maritime 2022: How the tides are turning for women in yachting<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260776/image/large-54de2a551f40fdfba32775b819bcfdd2.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260776"></a>Across the industry there are women thriving on the challenge of changing these statistics. One of those is world-renowned captain and star of Bravo TV’s reality hit show Below Deck Mediterranean, Captain Sandy Yawn. “Looking back, I was never offered any career advice, I actually answered an advertisement in the newspaper under the jobs section. I didn't even know that there was a maritime school for people like me who did not graduate high school, until I heard about Maritime Professional Training in Fort Lauderdale.”&nbsp;Over the years, Captain Sandy Yawn has worked hard to prove her worth in a male-dominated industry. “In the past I was turned down for a new-build because the owner was from another country and didn't think a woman could be in command. That one made me laugh out loud! I would love to see more women take the helm and show the world that we are capable of taking command.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260781/image/large-a78356721ca8e8be38b32146d70c8cfe.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260781">Captain Sandy Yawn has built a name for herself and is well-known in both the maritime industry and from the American reality television series, Below Deck Mediterranean. The Below Deck franchise has grown in popularity and is currently on season seven, with Captain Sandy Yawn at the helm of the 49.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5959" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Home49.8m (163'5&quot;)Heesen Yachts2017">Home</a> in the pristine waters of Malta.The show continues to highlight the job roles for women in the industry and is finding new ways to inspire them to want to learn more. “They are reaching millions of people and I am so happy to be on the show,” commented Captain Sandy Yawn. “It shows little girls and women all over the country and the world that they can have a life at sea!”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/48219" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="International Women's Day 2018: Inspiring women in yachting (2018-03-08 14:30:00 +0100)">International Women's Day 2018: Inspiring women in yachting<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260762/image/large-443c3e685ed41251fb4979bd56bfdf5a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260762"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a> Sales Broker, Annie Avery took up sailing from a young age with her family and brother-in-law Fred. “After a year of private sailboat cruising with my family in the Caribbean I decided I wanted to be a captain to really learn about responsibility,” reminisced Annie Avery. “I confided in Fred that I was uneasy about putting myself out there as a captain as I was worried about the machinery on a charter boat. He put his arm around me, swooped his other across the harbour in St. Thomas and said, ‘Annie, do you think all those guys on that boat went to Detroit Diesel School? No, I said. ‘That’s right and you’re going to learn just like they did,’ he reassured me.”Annie eventually traded her sea legs to become one of a handful of female yacht sales brokers in the world working with powerhouse Northrop &amp; Johnson. “As a yacht broker, my experience as a yacht captain prior gave me a good foundation for knowing the product I was selling and I have had wonderful advisors and cheerleaders along the way– which have been mostly men!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/219126/image/large-206b550a22422538d353d3e1d1b64044.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/219126">Over the years, Annie has seen the industry start to evolve with more women involved. “Progress is definitely being made, more women are now brokers, naval architects, captains, and managers than when I first started,” explained Annie Avery.“The first company that did hire me confided one of the reasons they did, was because they passed over a woman, one of the very first, who became a very successful yacht broker. I have also been in situations where assumptions were made about me as a woman. I considered it a good opportunity to intentionally stand in my own authentic power. I always remember Eleanor Roosevelt’s quote: “Nobody can make you feel inferior except by your own consent.”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/49663" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Super yachting females on International Women’s Day 2019 (2019-03-08 10:30:00 +0100)">Super yachting females on International Women’s Day 2019</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260758/image/large-d114845098d9a706f89986d98c42100b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260758">The yachting industry is constantly changing with more women stepping up to the plate to take on managerial positions. One of those is Giovanna Vitelli, former Vice President of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Azimut|Benetti Group</a> who was recently appointed Chairwoman of the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/azimut-benetti-group" target="_blank">Group</a>.Commenting on the appointment, Giovanna Vitelli said, “I would like to thank my father infinitely for his trust and the teachings of a lifetime, as well as all the people who have made and will continue to make the history of our Group”. &nbsp;The shipyard stated, “The path forward of continuity in the family, strongly desired by the founder Paolo Vitelli, guarantees the stability necessary to seize all the opportunities of the future.”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57093" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Giovanna Vitelli named Chairwoman of Azimut|Benetti Group (2023-03-07 15:15:00 +0100)">Giovanna Vitelli named Chairwoman of Azimut|Benetti Group</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260756/image/large-7a29c7bb12f0ed57baa2fd9404a7187a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260756">Based in Fort-Lauderdale, Florida, interior designer Destry Darr Pethtel of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2524" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Destry Darr Designs (Company)">Destry Darr Designs</a> draws on her family legacy to provide a comprehensive menu of yacht interior design services. “I always had an artistic and creative eye but was also very analytical as a child,” commented Destry Darr Pethtel. “In school, I was always drawing – anything from Barbie dolls, to crazy hybrid fantasy creatures, to stylised renditions of yacht exteriors and very technical drawings of lighthouses and building facades. At a very young age, I thought I wanted to be an architect.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260775/image/large-7170215367ea40988422bb9882dee971.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260775">Prior to founding her firm in April 2004, Destry refined her skills as an interior designer for several world class, well-known yacht interior design firms. “LIke so many women, I juggled the responsibilities of raising a family and growing a business at the same time, but I have been blessed with tremendous help and support along the way - from my parents, grandmother and aunt, to my husband, Rodney, who left his own career to join me as our business took off.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260773/image/large-b67a6fdceedb6234a1757379417985d0.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260773">“My philosophy is work hard, hone your skills, pursue what you love and figure out how to be the best at it. I’ve always operated with a vision of what I want for my business in the future and have seized the opportunities and taken the risks necessary to achieve these goals,” added Destry Darr Pethtel. “Building a strong reputation through this journey has been instrumental in our success as well. Taking a risk might be scary but it can come with a big payoff.” Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/52809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ione Astondoa: Carving a space for women in the yachting industry (2021-04-29 15:00:00 +0200)">Ione Astondoa: Carving a space for women in the yachting industry</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/52809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ione Astondoa: Carving a space for women in the yachting industry (2021-04-29 15:00:00 +0200)"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260760/image/large-b38f4461d79d96020f16ef126adc1226.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260760"></a>Like Destry Darr Pethtel, many women choose to pave their own path in the industry and a great example of that is business owner and Development Consultant of Onboard Monaco, Marcela de Kern Royer. “I faced many hurdles on my journey as I am an immigrant to Europe, so I needed visas and work permits to get started. On top of that English was not my first language so I worked hard as both a woman and a Latina to set up my business.”&nbsp;Monaco-based resident Marcela de Kern Royer combines a passion for yachting with a strong international academic background, along with her past experiences in asset management. She has gained excellent exposure to all facets of the industry, starting as a supplier and having experience in new-build, refit, brokerage, and yacht management.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260761/image/large-822c6f306d21c5327096e1c7bed8f814.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260761">“I was inspired by the role models of my parents as both of them were entrepreneurs and very successful business people. I combined what I love doing, with my inspiration from other powerful women from not just this industry, but all walks of life.”Marcela started in the industry at the age of 18 and has seen a shift in the roles of women since she began. “There are a lot more women in higher positions now than when I first started. I had to work through the career ladder to get to where I am today. Being a woman in this industry turned out to not only be my strength, but my superpower and because of that I am grateful to all my previous bosses, who were men. They all helped me get to the position I am in today, as they believed in me every step of the way.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260783/image/large-000e3ba5928e5d4613b24f1e7ae7ff58.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260783">As an influential person in yachting, Marcela de Kern Royer has created a powerful online community for yacht owners and professionals and operates a very impressive platform, but it has not been without its challenges. “As both a mother and a businesswoman, I have had my fair share of struggles to balance this lifestyle. But it is important to not give up and to remain resilient and persistent in everything you do.”"As Franklin D. Roosevelt said "A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor," so cast off the lines and let your adventure begin,” concluded Annie Avery.

International Women’s Day 2023: Women in yachting

Today (8 March 2023) marks International Women’s Day, SYT takes a look at the inspirational women at the helm of change in the yachting industry.

International Women’s Day 2023: Women at the helm of change

Carinthia VII superyacht history and refit 

SYT investigates Carinthia VII's refit and looks into her full history. 

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An art collector's heirloom: The redesign of iconic Carinthia VII 

Yachts at Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023

With the Palm Beach International Boat Show quickly approaching, SYT takes a look at some of the yachts attending this year’s event.

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The largest yachts attending Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">Tillberg Design of Sweden</a>, the titan of maritime design, is weighing into the superyacht sector with a newly formed yacht division – and it’s nothing short of exciting.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">Tillberg Design of Sweden</a> – aka TDoS – is a formidable force. Its prowess is well respected in the cruise industry, with a portfolio exceeding 300 major luxury projects. The studio has been steadily fortifying its presence in the superyacht sector in recent years – and it’s here to stay.&nbsp;Following the release of a number of astounding superyacht designs, and news of a merger with the Italian design studio, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a>, we thought it high time to catch up with Daniel Nerhagen, Yacht Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>, to learn more about this powerhouse from the cruise sector.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260362/image/large-9eb51267dae054d3bf8152d199ce214c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260362">What is&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>’ origin story?&nbsp;We were founded in 1964 by a true pioneer in the cruise industry: Robert Tillberg. The studio was initially eponymously named but quickly blossomed with a growing team, it was only apt for the name of the studio to encompass this change; hence, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> was born.&nbsp;I’m lucky enough as a designer to have worked with Robert for a few years in the late 90s, but my experience isn’t unique in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> studio. We have at least six or seven designers that have been working at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a> for more than 20 years now, and we’ve also seen a number of second generation designers join the studio. It is remarkable.&nbsp;This longevity of our studio is not only found in the team, but also with the principles that we stand behind. Sustainability is one such principle, and we’ve kept it as a lodestar since at least the early 2000s, as such I was slightly taken aback when I first came into yachting and I kept hearing that we need to change, when the commercial sector has been on this train of thought for many, many years now. Our in-house design team has spent years, if not decades, researching and developing green solutions.&nbsp;Even though cruise ships have predominantly been our forte, we have built a portfolio of exterior and interior designs of yachts over the years. Some of our first sailing yacht designs hit the water as early as the 1970s and we’ve had our yacht designs (exterior and interior) launched well into the 2000s.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260365/image/large-4b4011da67beba38853bfcc7b587f3d1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260365"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>&nbsp;now has a strong presence in yachting, what drove this decision? A few years ago we designed a line of boutique “yachts” for The Ritz-Carlton with the level of luxury synonymous with its brand. The series of small cruise vessels each accommodates up to 298 guests across 149 well-appointed suites, brimming with state-of-the-art and top tier amenities. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection was successful in its own right – but it also garnered a lot of attention from other companies. It opened the door, if you will, and led to a lot of round-table discussions in-house. We decided yachting may be a good move for us; and in 2018 we opened a dedicated yacht division at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>. A few years later when COVID-19 hit, the commercial sector pretty much ground to a halt, and we used this period to ramp up activities in this newly founded division. It was a busy period for us. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/253660/image/large-38b63f56e9041d7bf538b99c991b9acd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/253660">Does bridging the game between the commercial and luxury sector give&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>&nbsp;an edge? &nbsp;We’re experienced in designing vessels that may have around 5,000 guests onboard. We have mastered the logistics of embarking, disembarking and ensuring that the vessel is operational for that many people, which is extremely complex. Superyachts, on the other hand, have the luxury of time and can take a few days to prepare. Our experience and our designs will help streamline this whole process in new and novel ways.&nbsp;The commercial space also requires a keen eye for designing in the most cost effective way. Now, and this is important, we’re not talking about materials or the aesthetic here. We’re talking about the design and general arrangement itself. When you're building bigger boats everything that is expensive, exponentially explodes because you're building 100 suites instead of four suites. We then look at design in a different way.&nbsp;We’re a big studio with deep resources and we’re used to turning projects around quickly. We have a degree of versatility that small design houses can’t compete with. If a client approaches us for a new design we can always deliver, quickly. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/253657/image/large-112cb977ff4a705d79ecb2bdc1e22803.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/253657">Are there any new and exciting shipyards or suppliers that&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TDoS</a>&nbsp;can bring to yachting?&nbsp;This is an interesting topic because many of our longtime suppliers have two divisions in their company: one that focuses on high-end luxury and another that’s more commercial. We, naturally, work more closely with the commercial departments, but their colleagues are responsible for furnishing hotels, residentials and yachts. We have a strong network of suppliers built from the commercial space, but with access to top tier vendors.&nbsp;With the rate that yachts are growing in size, we’re moving into SOLAS territory – something that we’re very used to working with. The suppliers we use and the materials we source are SOLAS compliant and certified to meet these more stringent regulations.&nbsp;The commercial shipbuilders that we work with produce to the same standard as most yacht builders, if not a higher standard, as the vessels they produce need to be able to handle the wear and tear of 24 hours, 365 days of use – something unheard of in yachting. The quality of the materials aren’t to the same standard as what you’d find on a superyacht, naturally, but commercial shipyards have finessed the process to keep costs down. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224824/image/large-6b5bba40e3c9e3e7c47b5d72f45aaeb6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224824">What motivated&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a>’s acquisition of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a>&nbsp;and how will it be integrated into your business?After watching the market and looking at our core skills, we realised that we were lacking a key area if we wanted to deliver everything to our clients; the know-how about the 60-metre and below segment. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a> is extremely successful in this segment and the studio designs both custom and production yachts – the latter is something we have never done before. Hot Lab is also based in Italy and has a strong presence in Turkey – two markets which we haven’t yet entered.&nbsp;Joining the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a> has access to different markets, different clients and are given an opportunity to expand and add larger yachts to its portfolio. It was a win-win situation for both Hot Lab and us. With <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a> in its folds, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6755" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Viken Group AB (Company)">Viken Group</a> now offers yacht designs from 60-foot to 60,000 GT, and thanks to the recent acquisition of Thalia Marine it also offers naval architecture for this whole spectrum. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224823/image/large-798b566c622e2ca838de96e5adf73239.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224823">One of the first yacht concepts unveiled by your Yacht Division was Aegir 2.0 – can you tell us a little bit about this design?&nbsp;We champion sustainability and carbon neutral sailing – and with Aegir 2.0 we placed our best foot forward. The nucleus of the design came from the 106.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl </a>– which is one of the most efficient yachts on the market – and we wanted to not only meet, but surpass its commitment. We invited Derek Munro, one of the Product Managers of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a>, to deliver a lecture series at our studios, and we learnt a great deal.Aegir 2.0 was born out of this commitment, and also from the realisation that if we were to really push for carbon neutral sailing then designers need to pen sailing yachts. We stepped up to the plinth and designed a wind-powered trimaran with hydrolics and a hybrid wind-electric propulsion system that recharges all batteries when under sail. While sustainability is at its core, Aegir 2.0 doesn’t skimp luxury. For one, it’s incredibly beamy so it offers more living space than that of a monohull from its category. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260364/image/large-22e3f619757645832b859a4a3b856c91.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260364">Since Aegir 2.0,&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/809" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tillberg Design of Sweden (Company)">TSoD</a>&nbsp;has released a number of unique concepts, can you share some of the inspiration behind these designs?&nbsp;Our conversations are fluid and our designs have come from the dialogues we’ve had in-house, and with our clients. The designs we’ve launched are pretty versatile, and to name but three, we designed the 60-metre explorer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56716" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Introducing the 60m explorer yacht concept Mimer (2023-01-10 15:00:00 +0100)">Mimer</a> a few years ago, the 120-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55013" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Desert Pearl: An impressive 120m Custom Built new-build superyacht concept for sale (2022-04-25 09:30:00 +0200)">Desert Pearl</a>, earlier this year and also <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/54850" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Introducing Lycka: The 77m “happiness” superyacht by Nobiskrug & Tillberg Design of Sweden (2022-03-28 11:30:00 +0200)">the 77-metre superyacht Lycka</a> in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nobiskrug (Company)">Nobiskrug</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a>.&nbsp;As is the nature of the industry, most of our projects are wrapped in strict NDAs so I have to keep pretty guarded. But <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/54850" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Introducing Lycka: The 77m “happiness” superyacht by Nobiskrug & Tillberg Design of Sweden (2022-03-28 11:30:00 +0200)">Lycka</a> I can divulge a little more about. An opportunity arose with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nobiskrug (Company)">Nobiskrug</a> to do a design around one of its platforms. We took one of their technical platforms, which is already developed, and reimagined the general arrangement and added our flair to both the exterior and interior design. This project is being marketed by both ourselves and Nobiskrug, so we’re pretty excited about this one. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/221363/image/large-1ddd2c7dc4335ad8ddcd49b053d204eb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/221363"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/221365/image/large-d8074dfb2569abced922475fe7fea3cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/221365">How has the reception been so far about your concepts and have you had many serious conversations? I’ve spoken with many serious builders and it was pleasing to hear that they know our company and our work. But, it’s true, we’re a fledgling company in the yachting community, a community that is very protected. That being said, we’ve had a great reception so far and have cleared the first hurdles. Many new design studios have tried and failed to get into yachting – but we’re here to stay.&nbsp;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>.

Interview with Tillberg Design of Sweden

Interview with Daniel Nerhagen of Tillberg Design of Sweden.

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Tillberg Design of Sweden: A new heavy weight in superyacht design 

The SuperYacht Times Synopsis, brought to you by <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachting-intelligence" target="_blank">SYT iQ</a>, gives you a rundown of the top business stories from last month.News in brief&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/257498/image/large-94b2feadc55275bf108563ab3fc9b410.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/257498"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen’s 115m superyacht Ahpo for sale for the first time (2023-02-08 14:15:00 +0100)">Lürssen’s 115m superyacht Ahpo for sale for the first time</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahpo115.1m (377'7&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Ahpo</a> was delivered in 2021 and joined the market for the first time this month. She was built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> to a design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a> and was the largest superyacht at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2022">Monaco Yacht Show 2022</a>.<ul><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56947" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Video: 127m Oceanco Y721 superyacht Koru on sea trials (2023-02-15 13:00:00 +0100)">Video: 127m Oceanco Y721 superyacht Koru on sea trials</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56883" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="75m Damen Yachting support yacht Abeona delivered (2023-02-02 17:45:00 +0100)">75m Damen Yachting support yacht Abeona delivered</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56925" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="72m Giorgio Armani designed superyacht Admiral 72 unveiled (2023-02-12 12:00:00 +0100)">72m Giorgio Armani designed superyacht Admiral 72 unveiled</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56880" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN delivers 60m superyacht Comfortably Numb (2023-02-02 15:30:00 +0100)">CRN delivers 60m superyacht Comfortably Numb</a> &nbsp;</li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212643/image/large-ba2f96ab9f3c28bcf8c37fcf05a94801.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212643">Big five Business reads<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/258136/image/large-1a5b771835acfb06005cd285755181e3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/258136"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56938" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="KPS Capital Partners acquires equity interest in Princess Yachts (2023-02-14 11:30:00 +0100)">KPS Capital Partners acquires equity interest in Princess Yachts</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Yachts (Company)">Princess Yachts</a> has announced that KPS Capital Partners has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a controlling equity interest in the company.<ul><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57028" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ARES Shipyard announces entry into the superyacht industry with Lateral Naval Architects (2023-02-28 10:00:00 +0100)">ARES Shipyard to enter superyacht industry with Lateral Naval Architects</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57034" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CEO Ermanno Bellettini announces that Rosetti Superyachts remains fully operational (2023-02-28 17:30:00 +0100)">CEO Ermanno Bellettini announces that Rosetti Superyachts remains fully operational</a> </li><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57000" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Voly Group announces acquisition of Pinpoint Works (2023-02-23 10:15:00 +0100)">Voly Group announces acquisition of Pinpoint Works</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56933" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lengers Yachts obtains Prestige Yachts dealership for Belgium (2023-02-13 14:30:00 +0100)">Lengers Yachts obtains Prestige Yachts dealership for Belgium</a></li></ul>&nbsp; <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212643/image/large-ba2f96ab9f3c28bcf8c37fcf05a94801.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212643">Major Launches <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/257678/image/large-5fcda49727742a1da0f9b0f643060560.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/257678"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56901" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Video: 145m secretive Lürssen superyacht Luminance launched (2023-02-09 09:45:00 +0100)">Video: 145m secretive Lürssen superyacht Luminance launched</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> has launched the 145-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8262" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luminance145.0m (475'9&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2023">Luminance</a> in Vegesack, Germany. The top-secret project is the eighth-largest yacht to be built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> and ranks as the 15th largest in the world.<ul><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56926" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="90m Lürssen superyacht Project 1601 launched (2023-02-10 13:30:00 +0100)">90m Lürssen superyacht Project 1601 launched</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56873" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="60m Heesen superyacht Project Skyfall launched and christened Ultra G (2023-02-01 16:15:00 +0100)">60m Heesen superyacht Project Skyfall launched and christened Ultra G</a>&nbsp;</li><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57025" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="60m Royal Huisman Project 404 sailing yacht Sarissa prepares for launch (2023-02-27 16:45:00 +0100)">60m Royal Huisman Project 404 sailing yacht Sarissa prepares for launch</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56909" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="First 52m Baglietto T52 superyacht launched (2023-02-08 11:15:00 +0100)">First 52m Baglietto T52 superyacht launched</a> &nbsp;</li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212643/image/large-ba2f96ab9f3c28bcf8c37fcf05a94801.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212643">Gulf Superyacht Summit<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/249882/image/large-0a047e19507946c8eb36dc0249c76fc9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/249882"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57019" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SYT announces dates for the 2023 Gulf Superyacht Summit (2023-02-27 12:15:00 +0100)">SYT announces dates for the 2023 Gulf Superyacht Summit</a>SuperYacht Times is pleased to announce the dates for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/185" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gulf Superyacht Summit - 2023">Gulf Superyacht Summit</a>. The two-day event will take place on the 22 and 23 November 2023 in Dubai.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212643/image/large-ba2f96ab9f3c28bcf8c37fcf05a94801.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212643">Wanderlust: Travel Spotlight<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/257379/image/large-e68857146b6063090afbb29d88abde3f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/257379"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56915" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Where wealth meets water: Miami Travel Guide (2023-02-09 12:30:00 +0100)">Where wealth meets water: Miami Travel Guide</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Miles of beaches, endless shopping streets, an eccentric nightlife and a contemporary art scene with a strong, beating pulse are some of the city’s most iconic touchstones. But it is the glamorous chaos of Miami that makes it one of the USA’s coolest and most exclusive cities and a superyachting hotspot.

SuperYacht Times Synopsis: February 

The SuperYacht Times Synopsis, as brought to you by SYT iQ, gives you a rundown of the top business stories and market reports from last month. 

SYT Synopsis February: 500m+ of new superyachts added to global fleet

The 57.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/162" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Codecasa S.p.A. (Company)">Codecasa</a> superyacht C125 has been sold. Construction began on the superyacht in 2020 as a speculation project and the hull was first seen in August 2022. She is scheduled for delivery to her owners this summer. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/215992/image/large-a74ab5b9a8c0727150091015036cf585.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/215992">The yacht C127 features a design from her builder in collaboration with Italian studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5407" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="m2atelier (Company)">m2atelier</a>. C127 features a fast displacement hull optimised to reach top speeds of 21 knots, and has a steel hull and aluminium superstructure. She will be powered by twin <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/caterpillar-inc" target="_blank">Caterpillar</a> engines.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/215991/image/large-6c56e8b98b106b675ad14f4003634c69.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/215991">She has accommodation for up-to 12 guests across one master suite and five additional staterooms. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/codecasa" target="_blank">Codecasa</a> C127 superyacht will be equipped with a lift to easily access all of her decks, a large stern beach area with a folding door to open into a swim platform, a gym, and a swimming pool on her sun deck.

Codecasa yacht C127 sold

The 58m Codecasa superyacht C127 sold and will be delivered this year.

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Codecasa 58m superyacht C127 has been sold

The 82-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a> will go to auction if still unclaimed by the end of tomorrow. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/19769/image/large-f3ff428285955c4cde5cfee0f37ddbf0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/19769">The announcement was made by Antigua Port Manager Darwin Telemaque earlier this week, as the government made a final drive to clear the superyacht, which has been left “abandoned” in Falmouth Harbour in Antigua for more than a year.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/4163/image/large-6e92b74af61093e73b2f894af3c51b1d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/4163">The superyacht was believed to be owned by the sanctioned Russian billionaire Andrey Guryev, yet, according to Bloomberg, his lawyers and legal representatives have denied these claims. “As we have informed the Antiguan authorities Mr. Guryev neither owns nor controls the Alfa Nero and has simply used the vessel from time to time under commercial charter since 2014,” Guryev’s representatives explained to Bloomberg. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/4152/image/large-6bd7e17f6430c1a7ea478ccf7494d776.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/4152">Bloomberg goes on to report that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a> has cost the marina more than $500,000 in costs, covering fuel, electricity and food bills for the five-person crew.&nbsp;(Update 03-03-2023 17:30) Antigua and Barbuda Government moves to sell 82m superyacht Alfa NeroAccording to Caribbean Loopnews, The Antigua and Barbuda Government is taking steps to auction the 82-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a> which, according to Information Minister Melford Nicholas, has been “abandoned” in Falmouth Harbour since February 2022.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84288/image/large-49a73b04ae3761415076e0fafa0af537.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84288"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a> is believed to be owned by a sanctioned Russian oligarch and was blocked and subject to an official search last August, to determine who her ultimate beneficial owner is. The search was unsuccessful and allegedly&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a> has since been deemed a risk.&nbsp;Nicholas explained the Government is “trying to prevent a future hazard since the luxury vessel is not being maintained by its owner.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84285/image/large-152b2c43cd20092c4fd4ac30f6a9bcbb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84285"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84284/image/large-f864ab48d0634ae138e75dc4ea015da4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84284">Caribbean Loopnews reports that the sales notice will be placed in the media for 10 days to satisfy the requirements under the law for a forced sale. &nbsp;The note stated, “If the owner fails to claim the vessel within that time period, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, having declared the vessel a hazard to shipping and to the harbour where it is moored, will sell it to the highest bidder.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84289/image/large-7cf65094f9ef1d594510586a81c6d50c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84289">Antigua and Barbuda would have consulted with the US authorities prior to taking the action. But whether the money raised from her sale stays with the Antigua and Barbuda Government is unknown, Nicholas explained. &nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a> was delivered in 2007 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> and features an exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a> and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/37" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture (Company)">Azure Yacht Design &amp; Naval Architecture</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>. The task of curating her 2,500 GT of interior volume was entrusted to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/19" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Pinto (Company)">Alberto Pinto</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84293/image/large-687c3fe7ccd6b0fd8e4e18db14cf3119.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84293"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84294/image/large-290998123199d82be0b140fac2a68b5e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84294"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/84295/image/large-fdfafdcea1e7b5a2e20cbfc7aa9c7db9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/84295">She was sold in 2011 to her current owner with a last known asking price of 115,000,000. Prior to her being “abandoned”, she was well maintained undertaking many refit and shipyard visits over the years. She returned to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> in Alblasserdam, the Netherlands in 2020. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/57566/image/large-fe016568ff8ea3fc88d2dfc89cb3ddcd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/57566">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/54694" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Update on Russian yachts seized: US imposes sanctions on 89m Russian-owned superyacht Nirvana (2022-12-21 14:15:00 +0100)">Update on Russian yachts seized: US imposes sanctions on 89m Russian-owned superyacht Nirvana</a>The superyacht offers accommodation for as many as 12 guests across six suites, comprising a master, two VIPs, two doubles and a twin. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa Nero82.0m (269'0&quot;)Oceanco2007">Alfa Nero</a> can also host 28 crew. She has a long list of key features that include a hydraulically operated pool and a helipad on her aft deck.

Antigua and Barbuda Government to sell 82m superyacht Alfa Nero

The Antigua and Barbuda Government is making steps to auction the “abandoned” 82m superyacht Alfa Nero.

Update: Sanctioned Russian billionaire Andrey Guryev denies ownership of 82m Alfa Nero superyacht

For the past eight years, SuperYacht Times has been publishing <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/market-reports" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">The State of Yachting</a> the industry's foremost market report, which tracks the yachting industry through our data intelligence system SYT iQ. Excitingly, we will deliver our first installment of The State of Yachting 2023 via a live stream the with expert guidance by our Head of Intelligence, Ralph Dazert. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvH71Q4Abd4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Tune into the live steam at 4pm CET on the SYT YouTube channel.</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263654/image/large-af88c626b8a5e3f49541f2b67d0e8d06.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263654">With an in-depth analytical presentation and a reflective analysis, the SuperYacht Times team presents their opinions, highlight key trends, and makes informed observations on different segments and events in the superyacht industry. We will conclude with our forecast for future sales and completions of superyachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263659/image/large-9ec5557bc4bf836a930a175ba12b89d3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263659">We are also offering viewers a unique opportunity to ask compelling questions during the presentation, where we will host an interactive Q&amp;A with Ralph, who will answer your questions.Throughout the presentation, viewers are advised to download the free copy of The State of Yachting 2023, which can be found here. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263658/image/large-a9e7c9fa669b3dce060cbfe549fd0531.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263658"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvH71Q4Abd4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Tune in live to The State of Yachting 2023 here.</a>

The State of Yachting 2023

 Join The State of Yachting 2023 live stream and Q&A with Head of Intelligence, Ralph Dazert. 

Tune in for The State of Yachting 2023 Live Stream 31st March 4pm CET

Diego Luca, the Miami-based yacht broker, influencer and Founder of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6698" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DIEGOLUCA Yacht Group (Company)">DIEGOLUCA</a> has joined forces with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5812" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="FGI Yacht Group (Company)">FGI Yacht Group</a>, which was founded by Frank Grzeszczak Sr in 2020. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/225537/image/large-c569369845a176d8f2eeeb2da7e0eafb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/225537">Diego Luca started his career in the yachting industry 14 years ago in a private membership club in California, where he focused on providing exclusive access to luxurious cars, helicopters, jets, and yachts to discerning clients. However, it was a transformative experience aboard a yacht in the Sea of Cortez that ignited Luca's true passion. He realised that the vehicles he was selling were merely a means to an end - the real excitement lay in the world of yachts.Today, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6698" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DIEGOLUCA Yacht Group (Company)">DIEGOLUCA</a> caters to private clients in Miami, Mexico, Monaco, and beyond, where he brokers charters, sales, new-builds, and refits. Over the past three years he has also hosted renowned events for superyacht owners at the Miami Formula 1 and Miami Art Basel. In announcement by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5812" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="FGI Yacht Group (Company)">FGI Yacht Group</a>, the team announced;"We are excited to join forces with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6698" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DIEGOLUCA Yacht Group (Company)">DIEGOLUCA</a>. With our industry rapidly changing and a younger generation of Yacht Owners joining the World Of Yachting, it was the perfect time for us to look and find the influencer shaking our industry. Diego Luca dominates the forefront of Social Media Marketing, Yachting, Lifestyle, and Formula 1 Events in Miami &amp; Monaco.""<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5812" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="FGI Yacht Group (Company)">FGI</a> has a hard-earned reputation for breaking the mould and striving relentlessly to keep our clients fully informed and up-to-date on the latest market trends and opportunities. By joining forces with Diego Luca, we're taking forward thinking to an entirely new level, connecting with virtually untapped markets, which is, of course, to the tremendous benefit of our clients," says Frank Grzeszczak Jr., Vice-President of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5812" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="FGI Yacht Group (Company)">FGI Yacht Group</a>.&nbsp;Diego Luca's success lies in building lasting relationships: "Take care of clients, they’ll take care of you"

Diego Luca joins FGI Yacht Group

The yacht broker and influencer Diego Luca has joined FGI Yacht Group.

Broker and influencer Diego Luca joins forces with FGI Yacht Group

The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/162" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dubai International Boat Show - 2023">Dubai International Boat Show 2023</a> has reported that they welcomed over 30,000 visitors and industry players from across the globe to the Dubai Harbour from 1 to 5 March. The Middle East’s premier marine event highlighted the global appeal of the UAE and the rapidly growing success of the local yachting industry.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263619/image/large-2705c61d7fe4c2cf84f39adeec5275dc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263619">Al Rubban Marine, IMG Boats, Invincible Boats, Ocean Boats, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/955" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gulf Craft (Company)">Gulf Craft</a> and Victory Yachts were among the exhibitors that showcased their latest creations at the five-day event, with a focus on incorporating sustainable solutions.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263616/image/large-98b445d9d5316fc307e1d9a69b228e3d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263616">The show saw local manufacturers and distributors exhibiting alongside brands from 60 other countries, highlighting the diverse range of international markets.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263617/image/large-500eb4686d5d92355e4fbc7ae4ab2c2b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263617">Paurush Farouk.H, Sales Manager of IMG Boats commented that there is a strong market for Middle Eastern products outside the region; “In previous years, we primarily had interest from across the region, but this year we are receiving more serious leads from international markets, particularly Eastern Europe, and Australia.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260515/image/large-6aac2a26376d23359d610e39eee5c84a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260515">The global boat building market is expected to reach over $47 billion in 2027, at a CAGR of 7.5 percent, and the increasing demand for recreational boats in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is a significant factor driving growth.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260516/image/large-c027e70c598eed031d7d0f45d0a31ab4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260516">Abeer Al Shaali, Deputy Managing Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/955" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gulf Craft (Company)">Gulf Craft</a>, said: “At <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/955" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gulf Craft (Company)">Gulf Craft</a>, we understand that clients prioritise sustainability and durability, and we are committed to supporting the path towards a sustainable future. We are committed to making our yachts more efficient, lightweight, and practical, always with the user’s perspective in mind.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260048/image/large-4c6fdce012228ba70e2f6767d71a3f71.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260048">UAE-based builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/955" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gulf Craft (Company)">Gulf Craft</a> were a prominent exhibitor at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/162" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dubai International Boat Show - 2023">Dubai International Boat Show</a> where they presented the brand new 30.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nomad 101/0130.8m (101'1&quot;)Gulf Craft 2023">Nomad 101</a> and debuted the 34.1-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11985" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Majesty 111 #134.1m (111'11&quot;)Gulf Craft 2023">Majesty 111</a>.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57039" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nomad 101: Gulf Craft presents new 31m motor yacht at DIBS (2023-03-01 11:15:00 +0100)">Nomad 101: Gulf Craft presents new 31m motor yacht at DIBS<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/261521/image/large-34a23f7e6532b2874722c262f6f7de53.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/261521"></a>The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/162" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dubai International Boat Show - 2023">Dubai International Boat Show</a> annually continues to champion the UAE’s position as a top destination for marine enthusiasts and professionals and attracts leading brands and industry leaders from around the world. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263618/image/large-67b838dfebbf4eb3da6b1f94dcebbb80.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263618">The event plays an essential role in providing a platform for the industry to present its excellence to the international market. SuperYacht Times was a media partner for the event and a number of representatives attended the show.You can find the full roundup of everything you may have missed from this year’s show here.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/57084" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Everything you may have missed at the Dubai International Boat Show 2023 (2023-03-06 16:30:00 +0100)">Everything you may have missed at the Dubai International Boat Show 2023</a>

Dubai International Boat Show 2023 puts UAE on the global yachting stage

The Dubai International Boat Show 2023 has reported that they welcomed over 30,000 visitors to this year’s show.

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="METSTRADE (Company)">Metstrade</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7078" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Foiling Organization (Company)">The Foiling Organization</a> have announced a new partnership, launching the first ever Foiling Technology Pavilion. The pavilion will showcase manufacturers of foiling hardware and technology and will be featured during <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/184" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="METSTRADE - 2023">Metstrade 2023</a>, taking place in Amsterdam RAI from 15 to 17 November. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263602/image/large-c9f3b7e2d0d75fc5e3c81017f5be0648.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263602"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="METSTRADE (Company)">Metstrade</a> is the world’s largest trade exhibition for equipment, materials and systems for the global leisure marine industry. Its new partner, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7078" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Foiling Organization (Company)">The Foiling Organization</a>, is part of the We Are Foiling events ecosystem as an international association for the foiling industry and its professionals.During <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/184" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="METSTRADE - 2023">Metstrade</a>, the Foiling Technology Pavilion will showcase the impressive progress made with high-end racing technology across yachts and boats, with confirmed exhibitors such as Caponnetto Hueber, Foil Chemy and Vakaros. The pavilion will also provide helpful information to boat builders and designers, educating them on what is involved in employing foiling within sail and power yachts of the immediate future. The Foiling Technology Pavilion will also host a knowledge stage for discussion on all the trending topics in the sector.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263601/image/large-96234016a46ac7f684836bb26af48df8.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263601">“Foiling is changing the water mobility system. The decarbonisation targets set by the EU, the UN and the IMO, make foiling an almost obligatory choice for new leisure and commercial applications. The astonishing number of projects for the transport of people, goods and containers is there to prove it.” stated Luca Rizzotti, Founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7078" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Foiling Organization (Company)">The Foiling Organization</a>, and Founder and President of We Are Foiling events ecosystem. “I am confident that the Foiling Technology Pavilion will provide a major boost to accelerate innovation and economic growth in the foiling segment to the satisfaction of all of those who will have the opportunity to take part in this showcase.”Niels Klarenbeek, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="METSTRADE (Company)">Metstrade</a> Show Director, added, “With the Foiling Technology Pavilion we cannot wait to unveil the latest of our forward-thinking feature areas and we anticipate wide interest from visitors and exhibitors alike. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="METSTRADE (Company)">Metstrade</a> has been at the forefront of providing a significant knowledge platform to highlight the developments that will move our industry’s essential decarbonisation efforts from ambition to reality. It is a logical progression for us to take a leading role in partnership with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7078" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Foiling Organization (Company)">The Foiling Organization</a> to encourage the mainstream adoption of a technology that has such great potential to reduce energy consumption while increasing the pleasure of those who go afloat.”

Metstrade 2023 launches new Foiling Technology Pavilion

Metstrade and The Foiling Organisation have announced the launch of the first ever Foiling Technology Pavilion at Metstrade 2023, Amsterdam.

events-retrospectives#1

Brand new Foiling Technology Pavilion to launch at Metstrade 2023

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="EKKA Yachts (Company)">EKKA Yachts</a> has announced the sale of Hull 570 in the 25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> SL82 motor yacht series. The yacht sold with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="EKKA Yachts (Company)">EKKA Yachts</a> representing both the buyer and seller during the transaction.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/177460/image/large-2eace56fecc0b156f80630ed0aac1827.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/177460">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> SL82 was delivered in 2011 by the Italian shipyard which penned her interior, exterior and naval architecture. Standout features on board include her spacious saloon and her bridge deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/237723/image/large-e7f6e1f521b37754363e110a8588cac9.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/237723"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/237721/image/large-6a3a4101ca5e3f689dcd7863f226fe53.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/237721">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> SL82 is able to accommodate up to eight guests across four well-appointed staterooms, located on the lower deck. These include a master stateroom, VIP forward suite and two twin guests staterooms.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/237725/image/large-9ec455946c3ffe52bd8504e04aadd2b7.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/237725"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/237728/image/large-ba3f73d3851e482ae835a8f6ee1f7e1e.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/237728"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/237727/image/large-5a535145a5f9aec95c7915f230d7df0e.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/237727">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> SL82 yacht is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> diesel engines that provide her with an incredible top speed of 30 knots and a cruising speed of 25 knots. At the time of her sale, she had a last known asking price of €1,890,000.

25m Sanlorenzo SL82 motor yacht sold

Ekka Yachts has announced the sale of hull 570 in the 25-metre Sanlorenzo SL82 motor yacht series.

Brokerage firm <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a> has announced the appointment of Rebecca Cutter as Charter Manager. Rebecca, originally from England, brings over two decades of experience in the yachting industry to her new role. Rebecca will be based out of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">N&amp;J</a>’s Antibes office.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263552/image/large-efd17b872091b7ae39a1f7a3d2b08ca1.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263552">Rebecca's career in the yachting industry began in1996 while living in Antibes, France. She is now responsible for managing and promoting the booking calendars for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a> European charter fleet. Her primary responsibilities include liaising with fleet owners, captains, and retail charter brokers to provide exceptional yachting experiences to both new and existing clients.Rebecca spent 22 years with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/336" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system" target="_blank">Bluewater</a>, learning everything she knows about the industry, and is excited to embark on a new challenge with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news#managed-by-system" target="_blank">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>’s European team. As a Charter Manager, one of Rebecca’s favourite aspects of her job is being able to interact with yacht crew, who she holds in high esteem and believes play a crucial role in every successful yacht charter. Her diverse background instilled in her a drive to work hard and aim high, which she brings to her work at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>.

Rebecca Cutter joins Northrop and Johnson

Rebecca Cutter has joined Northrop & Johnson as Charter Manager.

Rebecca Cutter joins Northrop and Johnson as Charter Manager

The 57.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/418" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cammenga (Company)">Cammenga</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/431" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Meserret II57.2m (187'8&quot;)Cammenga1978">Meserret II</a> has entered the market. Built in 1978, the <a href="http://yacht%20Meserret%20II%20for%20sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Meserret II for sale</a> is currently located in Istanbul, Turkey.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263520/image/large-5eab5baaddd9934193f4351641d4e461.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263520"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/431" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Meserret II57.2m (187'8&quot;)Cammenga1978">Meserret II</a> has been meticulously maintained since her delivery, enduring a series of extensive refits and rebuilds in the past two decades. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Vries Lentsch (Company)">De Vries Lentsch</a> was responsible for her exterior design and naval architecture, while her interior was originally penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/17" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bannenberg & Rowell Design (Company)">Bannenberg &amp; Rowell Design</a> and restyled by Dimitri Koutoukos in 2004.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263501/image/large-7e467d520a3865ea8e7a5216157671a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263501"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263500/image/large-315bd95fba45dcf3488267fe9abdb6bb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263500"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263503/image/large-96b1068b83780f03087d90010caf98e6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263503"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/431" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Meserret II57.2m (187'8&quot;)Cammenga1978">Meserret II’s</a> interior is classic and tasteful, offering a large main saloon with sumptuous seating and vibrant decor. The saloon’s walls are covered in artwork and her tables and cabinets feature fun sculptures, bringing life to her interior. Separate to the saloon is a formal dining area that comfortably seats 12 guests. Guests can venture up to the beautiful sky lounge, where they can enjoy evening cocktails at the bar.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263505/image/large-c03e27797f05982db56653563903f550.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263505"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263511/image/large-6e2efdfaf2e3b91be4bdb6566f30e13f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263511"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263512/image/large-51de8e36cb005a7c318b261081de1012.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263512"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/431" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Meserret II57.2m (187'8&quot;)Cammenga1978">Meserret II</a> provides flexible accommodation for up to 16 guests across ten luxurious staterooms. The generously-sized master suite benefits from a private study, a dressing room, and a marble bathroom with a spa pool. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> also has space to accommodate 19 crew to ensure guests have a comfortable cruising experience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263506/image/large-0bbf37515a0b42eb44aff2358e41c3fb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263506"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263508/image/large-ac1b528aecc7916aa2c9376b578e502d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263508">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/cammenga/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Cammenga yacht for sale</a> offers all the necessary amenities for longer cruises thanks to her extensive outdoor spaces. Guests can dine alfresco at one of the outdoor tables, sunbathe on one of the sunbeds, or wind-down in the Jacuzzi following an intense training session at the gym. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263499/image/large-d5da1ba66b58c1e2c427936a64c6fa40.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263499"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263510/image/large-10a9e6c66aefaf804ad016db54a41394.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263510"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263514/image/large-3662207badd077c1a59c6a9d4c798876.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263514">Performance-wise, the 683 GT <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1629" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Paxman (Company)">Paxman</a> engines, giving her a top speed of 17 knots and a comfortable cruising speed of 13 knots.&nbsp;

57m Cammenga yacht Meserret II for sale

The 57.2-metre Cammenga superyacht Meserret has entered the market.

57m Cammenga superyacht Meserret II for sale

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2612" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Otam (Company)">OTAM</a> has sold its seventh bespoke version of its 25.5-metre 80HT model. Prized as the “most extreme and advanced 80-HT yet” thanks to the client's specifications. The sold <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2612" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Otam (Company)">OTAM</a> yacht has an expected delivery in 2025.&nbsp;The owner, who is not just “an expert owner but also has experience as a captain,” supplied the Genoa-based shipyard with customised specifications, including expansive windows to envelope the boat with natural light and a “detailed list of technical and aesthetic requests.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263522/image/large-77da9293d81bfb2529b9c143f8a9323d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263522">The custom-built 80HT comprises a hull and deck, which will be laminated in full Kevlar, while the superstructure is constructed from carbon fibre. The result is an exceptionally strong and rigid structure, which is also lightweight for higher performance in terms of top speed and fuel consumption. Although the hull lines by Umberto Tagliavini Marine Design &amp; Services and the twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> 2,600 horsepower engines coupled to Arneson drives are unchanged, nearly everything else has been re-engineered according to the experienced owner-specific technical specifications giving her an impressive top speed of 48 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263521/image/large-19c50839e7cbb2383f2f7ee5612acbfc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263521">“We’re always ready to introduce engineering and design modifications, but I can honestly say that this time we’re looking at the most extreme and advanced 80HT yet,” says Matteo Belardinelli, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2612" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Otam (Company)">OTAM</a> sales &amp; communication managerOther highlights of this innovative 80HT design include the increased side windows, which will provide additional ventilation and can be opened electronically. This additional design feature is complimented by a one-piece windscreen and reconfigured sliding sky roof.&nbsp;“The client came to us because he wanted to create something unique and exclusive and knew we would do what it takes to not only meet but also exceed his demands,” concluded Belardinelli. “From our point of view, we’re always looking to push our own boundaries, so you could say it’s a relationship made in heaven!”SuperYacht Times will be following the 80HT#007 project.&nbsp;

OTAM sold seventh version of its 80HT

OTAM has sold the most extreme version of its bespoke 80HT model thanks to the owner's customisations and experience as a captain. 

Seventh and “most extreme” custom 25m OTAM 80HT yacht sold

Germany

Based in Germany, Lürssen is the leading shipyard for large luxury yacht building.For four generations and since 1875, Lürssen has been cultivating the most refined skills and advanced technologies to create truly outstanding vessels. Their connection to shipbuilding is as deep-rooted and individual as only family bonds can be, the commitment is deep, the approach individual. When the company founder Friedrich Lürssen said, “Leading in quality and performance, that should be my company’s reputation,” he was expressing the values Lürssen continues to uphold to this day.The shipbuilding family can look back on a number of remarkable achievements. These include the world's first boat propelled by an internal combustion engine (1,5 hp) launched in 1886 as well as the world's largest motoryacht with 180 m and powered by 94.000 hp.A success story: from the modest producer of small working and racing boats to the leading producer of luxury yachts and high-quality specialized ships. From then to now, around 13,000 ships have left the docks of Lürssen. Each one a true original and a magnificent specimen of its type.Lürssen yachts are as individual as their owners – from experienced yachtsmen to newcomers, from 60 meters to more than 180 meters in length. The yachts developed by Lürssen hand-in-hand with the customers and the world’s finest yacht designers, span the full spectrum – graceful, bold, poetic, imposing, classic, innovative. Yet as diverse as these individual projects are, they all share one quality: they are shaped by the Lürssen family’s deep knowledge of - and commitment to - custom yacht building.Today, 29 of the Top 100 yachts in the world have been built by Lürssen (9 of the Top 20). The founder's dream to become one of the leading shipbuilders is still present in the spirit of Lürssen and all the people who work there.Lürssen is more than a shipbuilding company - Lürssen is a shipbuilding family.

Long Read

2022 Gulf Superyacht Summit: Peter Lürssen’s keynote interview with Merijn de Waard