They said it couldn’t be done, but Netherlands-based builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> proved everyone wrong in 1988 when they delivered <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a>, the 43.58-metre superyacht that topped the 50 knot plus barrier. Commissioned by American entrepreneur John Staluppi, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> defied the odds by reaching speeds of 53.17 knots and cementing her place in yacht building history as ‘the fastest superyacht in the world.’<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207205/image/large-f69bf6952f61ac9c8e6cd45d3c80fe35.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207205"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> has exchanged hands several times since her delivery. Over the years the alterations of her previous owners’, in addition to deferred service and maintenance caused performance issues that led to her top speed being limited to around 18 knots. In 2021, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> was sold to her new owner who appreciated the history and accolades the iconic superyacht had garnered over the years. As a result, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> was hauled to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2067" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lauderdale Marine Center (Company)">Safe Harbor Lauderdale Marine Center</a> in South Florida, USA. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6773" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Starboard Yacht Group (Company)">Starboard Yacht Group</a> was entrusted with the task of completing a major refit.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268504/image/large-004e3e29ea861e641dc3812a39a9d142.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268504">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55439" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen’s 44m ‘world’s fastest yacht’ Octopussy prepares for major refit (2022-06-28 17:45:00 +0200)">Heesen’s 44m ‘world’s fastest yacht’ Octopussy prepares for major refit</a>Once the fastest yacht in the world, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a>’s refit will see her attempt to claim a new title, “instead of speed, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> will focus on stability to become the most stable yacht on the planet,” commented Jake Stratmann. The refit will see her receive three <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2383" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seakeeper, Inc. (Company)">Seakeeper</a> 35s and Humphree's trim with stabilisation systems to ensure a smooth and comfortable cruising experience and over 100,000 nmps of stabilisation horsepower. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> will also receive a new propulsion system of twin 4,000 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Voith GmbH & Co. KGaA (Company)">Voith</a> Linear Jets, as well as a few structural changes to optimise her overall performance. Her owner had previously used the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6773" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Starboard Yacht Group (Company)">Starboard Yacht Group</a> for refits on some of his smaller vessels so enlisting the team at the Florida-based refit centre made perfect sense. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/110821/image/large-c67162b1b32ddc36af2fb684d68f48ba.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/110821"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/110820/image/large-c4b39570db72e2aba4688f65d114da57.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/110820">The yacht's interior prior to her new ownership, this interior is now being entirely remodelled in line with the new owner's styling.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988"></a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> already has such an iconic history with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, but this major refit allows the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6773" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Starboard Yacht Group (Company)">Starboard Yacht Group</a> to write a different route of innovation into her history. “The plan for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> is to combine a special lightweight efficient hull, with a three-and-a-half-metre beach club extension and a whole new level of stability to create the most epic dive boat for her owner!” added Jake Stratmann. During this extensive refit, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> will receive a complete interior refit from Fort Lauderdale-based <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Karen Lynn Interiors (Company)">Karen Lynn Interiors</a>.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6773" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Starboard Yacht Group (Company)">Starboard Yacht Group</a> will work closely with her original naval architect designer, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder Design</a> to make <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> better than before without compromising her iconic original design. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder Design</a> founder Frank Mulder has the original plans and some invested interest into <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a>, so we quickly got him and his son Bas Mulder, as well as their team onboard with the project,” added Jake Stratmann. “The idea is to achieve a 28 knots, 80 percent load cruise capacity and when working with the boys, they kept playing around with the whole design to get the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6875" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Voith GmbH & Co. KGaA (Company)">Voith</a> Linear Jets and shaft right alongside her extension.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/103477/image/large-cc99c3f473ffe6bf3f4afe29eda833f3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/103477">The new owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> is a keen diver, and her original design did not have a large enough platform to accommodate this. Her exterior design and beach club extension have been entrusted to Miami-based <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/283" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luiz de Basto Designs (Company)">Luiz de Basto Designs</a> who are extending her original <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder</a> design. “We needed to work out how we could create a new hydraulic swim platform while adding weight and still meet the owner’s intended use,” stated Jake Stratmann. “This previously wasn’t possible due to the positioning of her triple 3,600 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, so it was great that the owner was also keen on stability, rather than speed as our needs and expectations aligned very well.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268503/image/large-157358b030515def750ef3489bd22533.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268503">The refit process is underway at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6773" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Starboard Yacht Group (Company)">Starboard Yacht Group</a>, with the swim platform removed from her superstructure. Engineering has already begun to make way for all this new innovative technology and her twin 4,000 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines have already been ordered. For the most part, everything is going smoothly, and she is looking at a timeline of Summer 2024 for completion. Joe Seintz and Project Manager Jeff Vrana are currently working with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> crew and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6773" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Starboard Yacht Group (Company)">Starboard Yacht Group</a> team doing demos in preparation for the final designs to be approved by the owner. The refit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> originally started off as a swim platform and a paint job, but upon completion, she will be a pioneer for innovative technology.This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-44" target="_blank">Issue 44 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>.

Refitting Heesen superyacht Octopussy

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Octopussy yacht refit at Lauderdale Marine Centre

The iconic superyacht Octopussy is undergoing a major refit with hydrogen fuel cells, SYT found out more.

The refit of the iconic 43m Heesen superyacht Octopussy

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In recent years, the consensus within the superyacht industry has been that ‘biggest is best’, yachts are getting larger every year and superyacht news is dominated by the biggest names on the water. The tiny (by comparison) stars of the yacht construction industry, however, are the yacht’s model counterparts that take pride of place among their paramours and whose builders can hold their own against any of the yachting giants. Take a short walk along the dock at 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>, step into the studio of any designer or yacht club, and it is not only the on-water vessels that steal the limelight, it is also the models that represent them. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267544/image/large-04b01483d98697bc4faddb35c1eb3895.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267544">Historically, yacht hull models were used to help owners select their next vessel, and then they were used to commemorate the yacht on the water, displayed in pride of place within the homes of the owner or the club they raced with. While these uses still abound, today shipyards and designers use superyacht models to display their work, unveil new superyacht designs and to record previous models in perpetuity. We spoke with a few of the companies that pioneer within the yacht model industry, and experts shared their thoughts on the value and importance that the models represent.One company whose models become talking points of their own and which never fail to attract the crowds at any yacht show are <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s. The shipyard is known worldwide for its work on future yacht concepts, designed in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lateral Naval Architects (Company)">Lateral Naval Architects</a> and the craftsmen behind these extraordinary models are <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7126" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scale Models Weston (Company)">Scale Models Weston</a>. Based in Colchester, England, the model makers have been collaborating with the shipyard that is at the forefront of cutting-edge yacht design for years. Jason Shearman, Director of the company explained “The details and technology that we incorporate into the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> models always make for an interesting project and the models produced are a stunning replica of their design flair and showcase our skilled craftsmanship to its full extent.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267556/image/large-25ce98ba119ff6169fdeac1b30f6c52f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267556"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7126" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scale Models Weston (Company)">Weston</a> are a boutique organisation, with a permanent four man team, the craftsmen's ranks are bolstered during busy show seasons with freelance model craftsmen. One of the larger fish in the model-making industry is the Italian company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4884" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Model Maker Group (Company)">ModelMakerGroup</a>, and with over 30 craftsmen, the company builds nearly 400 models a year for top industry names across the globe. The sentiment shared by all of the experts that we spoke to is that yacht models have a vital role to play within the wider industry, bringing drawings to life and giving designers, owners and shipyards the opportunity to touch, feel and investigate a design before metal is cut. Giuseppe Capobianco of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4884" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Model Maker Group (Company)">ModelMakerGroup</a> explains, “Most of the yacht’s we model are yet to be presented to the market, meaning that confidentiality is a must. It also means that our workshops are filled with the vessels of the future, and a tour of our studios would give you a real sense of how the industry develops every year.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267545/image/large-12594031a04e3e845fa0752cd34d87d0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267545">While an onlooker may see yacht models as a toy, like a model car, yacht model construction is a painstaking process that takes months to complete and, as Jason touched on, can feature complex technology. Many of the models we see at yacht shows today are malleable, with parts that can be moved, removed, added to, some even including hydraulic features.Jason Shearman of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7126" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scale Models Weston (Company)">Weston</a> added, “Our models provide a focal point for a marketing stand at an exhibition, board room, or as pride of place on the actual vessel. I believe a model superyacht helps to ignite the imagination of the viewer and creates a visual representation of the lifestyle a real yacht could offer. The features included on some recent superyachts that we have produced have really helped to bring the space to life, from a spa with scent diffuser triggered when the door is opened, to a tiny HDTV installed in the seating area for movie nights under the stars, there is a huge scope in utilising technology to showcase what life aboard could really be like.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267546/image/large-3b111e9247cecc105e79f435223c370f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267546">Brian Klassen, who builds yacht models at his studio in Canada for the yachting and commercial ship building industries believes that models have a vital role to play in the wider industry, despite the improvement in rendering technology. “Models are extremely valuable because not everyone can understand drawings or visualize a new concept. Renderings and videos provide good presentations, but a scale model can be viewed from all angles by a single viewer or multiple viewers gathered around a real, tangible representation, not a screen.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267559/image/large-324a04fe016e2e09313dc7dc9ad5cba4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267559">It's not only within the models themselves that technology comes into play. Like the shipyards themselves, automation and advancing tech is shaping the way models are produced. Guiseppe Capobianco explains, “In almost 20 years of model making we have tested different techniques, invested in technology and researched new production practices. We introduced 3D printing 18 years ago and recently we introduced a new innovative 3D printer to reproduce more realistic details. This machine completely changes the way of designing intricate details within the models and enables us to go deeper into the superyacht design.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267558/image/large-9d1fbce5de10595a6b9481420b9f9723.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267558">The technology within the sector is increasing every year, and AR is becoming more commonplace both on superyachts, and their models. With the demographic of superyacht owners shifting to the next generation, the tech industry is melding with yachting and owner’s expectations for interactivity are changing. “The idea that we can seamlessly connect the real world with the virtual is intriguing and an area that I believe will enhance the model making industry,” explained Jason, “with the overall look and feel of the yacht to be found on the model and the finer details such as the cabins and décor to be overlayed in the virtual world, offering a fully immersive experience.”This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-44" target="_blank">Issue 44 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>.

Scale superyacht models and their makers

Scale models may be small, but they have a hugely important role in the yachting industry. We found out more.

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Small yachts, big impact: A closer look at the scale model industry

The Mediterranean has a new heavy-weight contender for superyacht refit and repair – and it’s located snuggly in arguably one of the most beautiful coastlines in the Mediterranean Basin. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6770" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic 42 (Company)">Adriatic 42</a> first opened its doors late last year and has already worked on some impressive projects, including 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> motor-sailor <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>.&nbsp;SuperYacht Times caught up with Friedrich Dreves, Chief Commercial Officer, to learn more about the shipyard and to hear what it’s got lined up. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267270/image/large-ae61e90cb78d8f790ed1b1365d3c1db5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267270">What’s the story behind&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6770" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic 42 (Company)">Adriatic 42</a>&nbsp;and why did you choose Montenegro?Montenegro has a rich history of shipbuilding and repair and the former Bijela Shipyard was its beating heart. The shipyard was founded in 1927 and quickly grew to become the largest conventional repair and maintenance centre in the southern Adriatic. Not only was it the largest operation, it was beautifully located in Boka Bay – one of the world’s safest natural harbours. Sadly, though, it hasn’t been fully operational for the last 15 years, leading to its complete closure. A key piece of the Mediterranean puzzle was missing.&nbsp;Riding off the great success of the multi-award winning <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1857" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Porto Montenegro (Company)">Marina Porto Montenegro</a>, we knew that it needed this piece more than ever. The former shipyard was acquired by PM Holdings LLC and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="DryDocks World (Company)">Drydocks World Dubai</a> and transformed back into a premium superyacht refit and maintenance facility. But this time in an innovative, modern and sustainable way.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267271/image/large-8cee98b562e723533e15d276570e6783.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267271">How much of the original Bijela Shipyard did you preserve?After 15 years of non-operation, the shipyard needs complete reconstruction and revitalisation. We restored and refurbished where possible, but many of the buildings are brand new and built to the highest safety and investment standards. It wasn’t enough to work from an old and out-dated facility: our goal is to be one of the cleanest and modern shipyards in the industry – everything had to be state-of-the-art.&nbsp;What services do you offer and what facilities do you have?Our mission is to be the most transparent and highest quality shipyard for yacht refit and repairs. We have an incredibly modern infrastructure that’s complemented by our large floating dock and 720 tonne travel lift. Even though our primary clients are 70-metres and above, we do also welcome smaller yachts.&nbsp;To champion transparency we have an app that our clients can download to their devices. Through this all, clients can see all steps of the project in real time, customs process, delivery, work progress 24/7. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267272/image/large-151af8a6aaa88f78be73f95923160dc4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267272"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl31.4m (103'0&quot;)Diverse Projects2011">Black Pearl</a>&nbsp;was a sensational first project for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6770" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic 42 (Company)">Adriatic 42</a>, but what’s next?&nbsp;Winning the bid to work on the 107-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> late last year was fantastic. We did a great service and the managers and captains of the yacht were incredibly satisfied; we’re sure they’ll return to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6770" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic 42 (Company)">Adriatic 42</a>.The project proved that the joint venture standing behind <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6770" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic 42 (Company)">Adriatic 42</a> is strong, reliable and trust-inspiring – even for the most demanding clients. It’s still early days for 2023 and we’ve already signed more than 40 superyachts between 30 to 150-metres for refit and repair. It’s a really positive start for us.&nbsp;This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-44" target="_blank">Issue 44 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 Friedrich Dreves, CCO, Adriatic 42

SYT sat down with Friedrich Dreves, CCO of Adriatic 42.

Friedrich Dreves, CCO of Adriatic 42: "A key piece of the Mediterranean puzzle was missing"

Despite an impressive resumé, designer Alessandro Massari has not always received the media attention he deserves. But his dazzling interior design aboard 88-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project X87.6m (287'5&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2022">Project X</a> that debuted at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2022">2022 Monaco Yacht Show</a> is set to change all that. We travelled to Fano on Italy’s Adriatic coast to discover more about <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1156" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Massari Design S.r.l. (Company)">Massari Design</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267334/image/large-8974174c5da65d057110295150a9d4d0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267334">Alessandro Massari trained as an architect and spent his military service as a &nbsp;superintendent of architectural heritage. So it’s not altogether surprising that the first thing he does is take me on a tour of Fano’s Roman wall and the historic Arch of Augustus, the triumphant gateway that marked the entrance to the ancient city. From there it’s a short walk to the elegant 17th century palazzo that houses the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1156" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Massari Design S.r.l. (Company)">Massari Design</a>, where we settle down to talk under frescoed ceilings. &nbsp;“I basically took over the business set up by my father, who designed his first yacht interior for Canados in 1964 and then worked as a consultant for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> before it became part of the Ferretti Group,” he begins. “He was the interior project manager on Gianni Agnell’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="F-10032.9m (107'11&quot;)CRN1983">F-100</a>, the celebrated yacht with exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/172" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gerhard Gilgenast (Company)">Gerhard Gilgenast</a>, and worked on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azzurra II47.8m (156'10&quot;)CRN1988">Azzurra II</a>, another classic <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> yacht, together with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/288" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Paola D. Smith & Associates (Company)">Paola D. Smith</a>. I guess you could say yacht design was in my blood from the start.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267336/image/large-e3fbc852f73e2bd6d600573cdaa95d55.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267336">The latter connection proved instrumental in the trajectory of Alessandro’s own career. Starting out as a young interior designer he realised he would need to perfect his English by seeking work experience in the US. His father put him in touch with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/288" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Paola D. Smith & Associates (Company)">Paola D. Smith &amp; Associates</a> and he ended up spending two years with the Florida-based studio. During that time he contributed to projects such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/149" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Christensen Shipyards, LLC. (Company)">Christensen</a>’s 49-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/174" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Carte Blanche48.77m (160'0&quot;)Christensen Shipyards, LLC.2008">Primadonna</a> and 39-metre Lady Halima (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Azul39.4m (129'3&quot;)Heesen Yachts2001">Lady Azul</a>) launched by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> in 2001.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/67434/image/large-b13cb93378761bccf1f7afe2f0415f10.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/67434">“Both interiors were very bespoke projects and from Paola I learnt how to tailor the design to the client’s wishes,” he recalls. “That lesson stayed with me and today as a studio we start the creative process by listening with almost maniacal attention to the client. After listening, we study and then propose, &nbsp;always in that order.”Alessandro returned to Italy, but his apprenticeship as a designer was not over: he had the technical knowledge, but not the hand-on experience his father considered an essential ingredient of the job.“So I went to work for a carpentry company designing onboard furniture for shipyards like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>,” he says. “That meant engaging with the tradesmen on the shop floor, where I learned how things were put together and installed.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/16441/image/large-6efab0734257b84b932a5096d6656858.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16441">That workshop was eventually taken over by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>, which opened another chapter in the designer’s career. Originally called in to help resolve issues with a client and his American interior designer, he ended up overseeing the interior shop drawings and outfitting of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>’s Classic and Vision series in composite.&nbsp;This led to taking on the interior design of larger steel and aluminium yachts from 59-metre Wind (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galkynys59.0m (193'7&quot;)Benetti SpA2007">Galkynys</a>) to 62-metre Bistango (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/512" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sorrento62.0m (203'5&quot;)Benetti SpA2010">Sorrento</a>). By 2010 he had contributed to the interior design of some 25 superyachts from half a dozen leading shipyards.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200434/image/large-9dc6bfedd312d6a0275e9e0bd8350bfb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200434">An important custom project was <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4386" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Forever One54.65m (179'4&quot;)ISA Yachts2014">Forever One</a>, the 54-metre motor yacht with exterior design by Horacio Bozzo that was launched by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA</a> in 2014 for owner Bruce Grossman. An artful demonstration of how an attention-grabbing exterior and a soberly classic interior can be gracefully combined, the owner spent months at a time aboard his yacht.“The owner wanted a very distinctive exterior, but our brief was for a casual and family-oriented interior,” says Massari. ““One of the most challenging aspects was his considerable wardrobe that included a valuable watch collection. He had very precise instructions regarding the dimensions of drawers and hanging space, so much so that he invited me to visit his homes to take measurements, which were reproduced exactly aboard the yacht.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267337/image/large-4c33ddfa796e8bea414adffbb150fdd7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267337">By this time <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1156" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Massari Design S.r.l. (Company)">Massari Design</a> was juggling a growing number of residential commissions with large yacht projects such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nobiskrug (Company)">Nobiskrug</a>’s 76-metre Halo and 101-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4152" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="I Dynasty100.8m (330'9&quot;)Peters Werft GmbH2015">I Dynasty</a> built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/195" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kusch Yachts (Company)">Kusch</a> in Germany, his biggest yacht interior to date.&nbsp;“I‘ve learned to be very precise in the design package we provide, because the more specific you are the less room for interpretation there is,” he says. “Of course, there should always be room for dialogue, but by removing the grey areas the whole design process becomes more fluid. I think the northern Europeans are much more advanced than us Italians in this sense.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/184240/image/large-4dee20403a33c1a3b74d7266df4ad637.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/184240">While working in Germany a chance meeting with Sheldon Adelson, founder of the Las Vegas Sands Corporation that owns a chain of hotels and casinos, led to another fork in the road for Massari. The American entrepreneur hired him to develop the interior concept for The Venetian, a massive resort and casino complex in Macau. Other Sands resorts followed as well as the refitting of 92-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/272" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Queen Miri91.5m (300'2&quot;)Neorion2004">Queen Miri</a> for Adelson at Amico&amp;Co in Genoa. Moreover, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1156" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Massari Design S.r.l. (Company)">Massari Design</a> oversaw the interior concepts for various passenger jets in the Sands Corporation fleet and worked closely with Boeing at the Citadel complex in Louisiana, the world’s premier provider of VIP interior completions for large airplanes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251187/image/large-83acb4b82ac1ed5c40d18c4d850a369a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251187">“For several years everything we did was residential, hospitality or aviation with no time for anything else, but I was keen to get back into yacht design,” says Massari. “Then three years ago I got a call from the owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project X87.6m (287'5&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2022">Project X</a>, who previously owned the 59-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/514" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Meamina59.3m (194'7&quot;)Benetti SpA2008">Meamina</a>, which was one of our interior projects for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> years ago.”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56525" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Onboard Project X: A first look at the interiors of the 88m Golden Yachts superyacht (2022-12-07 14:00:00 +0100)">Onboard Project X: A first look at the interiors of the 88m Golden Yachts superyacht<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/258987/image/large-7134c4bad836931a9d69f6058d9dbdae.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/258987"></a>With exterior styling by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/148" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ken Freivokh Design (Company)">Ken Freivokh</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project X87.6m (287'5&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2022">Project X</a> had begun life at shipyard in Chile, but construction stalled for over a decade until she arrived at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/778" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Golden Yachts Ltd. (Company)">Golden Yachts</a> in Athens, where her interior design was completely revamped by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1156" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Massari Design S.r.l. (Company)">Massari Design</a> (the studio is also developing the interior design for 77-metre O’Rea by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/778" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Golden Yachts Ltd. (Company)">Golden Yachts</a> due to launch this year).&nbsp;At almost 3,000 gross tons, it is difficult to describe the sheer variety and complexity of the interior design. The array of exclusive materials includes more than 40 types of leather, precious woods, marbles and onyx, and sophisticated finishes. Yet despite the rich aesthetic the effect is never ostentatious and each room is endowed with its own identity and personality.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252015/image/large-40798fc4db1e218fedd6b624eb86e3ec.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252015">“We set out to create a contemporary, refined and welcoming interior solutions that conferred uniqueness to each individual space, while ensuring perfect harmony with the others,” says Massari.A prime example of how Massari and his 10-strong team (which includes his wife Maurizia) think through every detail of the design process is the bar unit on upper deck. The façade is lined with dozens of undulating glass bottles filled with a special whisky-coloured fluid, but the studio also designed the spring-loaded, rubber-lined mounts so the bottles don’t rattle under way and can be easily removed for cleaning. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/237426/image/large-7115013fadbee633e9a23854046e5dd7.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/237426">At the same time as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project X87.6m (287'5&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2022">Project X</a>, the studio was working on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>’s 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10294" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="PrivateGG52.0m (170'7&quot;)CRN2022">Ciao</a> with exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a>. The interior aesthetic based on natural, earthy tones punctuated by flashes of vibrant red soft furnishings is totally different but equally elegant, consistent and refined.&nbsp;As well as a Darwin 86 and 130-foot Acciaio explorer at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere delle Marche (CdM) (Company)">Cantiere delle Marche</a>, one of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1156" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Massari Design S.r.l. (Company)">Massari Design</a>’s most recent projects is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2504" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wider s.r.l. (Company)">Wider’</a>s new production on Fano’s seafront that is now close to completion. Given his architectural sensibilities, Massari was at pains to make sure the ultra-modern design didn’t clash with what remains of the town’s Roman heritage.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251138/image/large-1ed4082c3a6411930d9c7c9df4de717a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251138">“It’s not easy to design something that is beautiful but also practical from an industrial perspective,” he says. “Our studio is just a few hundred metres from the site of the new shipyard, so like other inhabitants of the town it was very important for me that the building should look good and not be an eyesore.”This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-44" target="_blank">Issue 44 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>.

At the studio with Massari Design

Justin Ratcliffe sits down with designer Alessandro Massari of Massari Design.

Listen, study, propose: At the studio with Massari Design

First announced in early 2018 with a teaser line drawing that hinted at a sporty exterior, elongated bow and dramatic sheer, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a> was destined to be something unique for the Italian shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>. Featuring exterior design and interior architecture from Frank Laupman of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a>, the yacht, which was delivered in May last year, is an evolution of a design trait Laupman has been playing with for years. With interiors from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4774" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pulina Exclusive Interiors (Company)">Pulina Exclusive Interiors</a>, the yacht’s interior volumes are characterised by bright, light and beachy tones, bathed in light from the floor-to-ceiling windows which wrap around the superyacht’s decks. Here we take a closer look at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rio62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">Rio</a>, a fully custom superyacht which changed hands shortly before its completion and therefore one which shows a shipyard and designers ability to adapt to an entirely new set of desires in next to no time.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235402/image/large-e1a16ff327fc3ed9381a37796d345aff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235402">One of the most characteristic features of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a> is her extremely long bow and dramatic leaning profile that elongates the vessel and gives her the presence of standing high in the water. To accentuate this specification of the first owner, Laupman and his team deviated from the expected and pulled the mast head away from the centre and toward the aft of the vessel. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235415/image/large-9bf91717d387ece5d9fc255d9f4304b1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235415">Developing the yacht from these initial lines, Laupman and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> opted for a large amount of glass, with the aforementioned floor-to-ceiling windows exaggerated further by the low bulwarks on all sides. Utilising a trait from an inspiration series created by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> following the launch of the 73-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2749" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yalla73.0m (239'6&quot;)CRN2014">Yalla</a> in 2014, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a> incorporates a characteristic arch to the aft, sweeping from the superstructure of the owner’s deck to the transom. A dynamic tool, the arch not only unifies the hull and main deck, but also makes the entire superstructure appear smaller and more tapered than it really is, giving the entire vessel the sense of leaning direction. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235409/image/large-c8e29ca83611d51d65894fede12aedf1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235409">Laupman explained, “The risk with an arch in this position is that it could intrude into your view from the aft deck, which is why the arches are hollow, allowing the eye to pass through them, while still retaining this interesting disruption of the hull line that creates a unique and special appearance.” With echoes of this distinctive arch visible in other <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> designs, a dramatic example being the 65-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/3676" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Illusion65.0m (213'3&quot;)Heesen Yachts2013">Galactica Star</a>, now Illusion, it is clear to see how the motif has evolved over the years; on Rio this results in a more upright and angular feature. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235436/image/large-4bdbd06be6d583bc5f606c0f8b9e98f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235436"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235435/image/large-ff6fd4dad7ebd2954231e6c94bd4a872.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235435">Offering an elegant support for the owner’s deck aft, the archway has allowed Laupman to pull the overhang further aft and elongate it without visually impeding on the profile of the superyacht. This owner’s deck aft is home, as is custom now, to a large dining table, lounge chairs and sunbeds, while the foredeck features a private owner’s Jacuzzi and lounge area with an awning and table, utilising that elongated bow.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235434/image/large-5060b2bc586ee9d020bf646e3e509343.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235434">While the uppermost aft deck area is dedicated to the guests, the main access point is an external stairwell which leads from the owner’s deck. This is because the internal volumes are dedicated to the technical management of the yacht, with the interiors home to the emergency generator, captain’s cabin, first officers cabin, pantry and wheelhouse.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235413/image/large-fbd242d3e73f9226f8aa0b95cf67fd5c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235413">Laupman has unified the design of this technical deck with the entire form of the vessel with the use of a number of clever motifs. The wing stations on either side of the vessel have been defined as separate forms which protrude from the superstructure at graphic angles and catch the light. Laupman explained, “the wing stations are a hard form with a sideways angle which are integrated with the visors over the windows that accentuate the entire feeling of the yacht ‘tumbling home’.” These lines are then balanced by another, gentler arch at the aft of the upper deck glazing, which adds yet another dynamic touch to the yacht’s exterior profile.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235422/image/large-c19dfe91444942dc3920d242dc9e990d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235422">When it comes to her interiors, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7207" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RIO62.0m (203'5&quot;)CRN2022">RIO</a> has been carefully configured by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega</a> to emphasise a flowing sense of interior-exterior harmony, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4774" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pulina Exclusive Interiors (Company)">Pulina</a> have created an interior styling that brings to life the owner’s wishes for bright spaces and a happy atmosphere. Alessandro Pulina commented, “The concept of the yacht was Tropical Mood, as prevailing upbeat white tones forming a backdrop throughout are set off with lively pops of colour. We wanted to create a sort of colourful and exotic amusement park inside the yacht, with unique art selections and decorations, made to measure with the ever-changing experiences inside the vessel.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235423/image/large-e7e204566d38ecc7fa7fc7b9a42eaadb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235423"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> added, “The preferred woods are American walnut and white lacquered oak in staves, selected respectively for the floors and walls all through the yacht. Crema d’Orcia and Calacatta Vagli Oro marbles were chosen for the bathrooms, chiming with the predominant light hues. The most vivid notes come from other marbles: the blues of the Azul Macauba in the saloons and the mossy Irish Green in the outdoor bars light up the spaces with colour combinations that vaunt a decidedly marine vibe.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235444/image/large-f465bb43e7905145e9f3c680c7c572f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235444"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235445/image/large-7796ccf33d4784b54ae10491edba77ff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235445">Diverging from the standard saloon layout, guests enter from the aft deck sliding doors where they are greeted by a standing bar, the dining table and then the lounge area with a huge TV and integrated stereo system. The bar at the entrance to the interiors creates a sense of conviviality, by greeting guests with a social and welcoming atmosphere and acting as a bridge between the exterior and the dining area. This is then maximised by the bespoke round drum table that can accommodate as many as 12 guests. This opening decision sets the tone for the entire interior, which is truly focused on the entertainment of guests and the creation of unique spaces to enjoy with friends and family.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235442/image/large-0fbd5b301b4deffc937aa0226656e5a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235442"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235443/image/large-22b3267e48a0cee25fa40d9db67f46cc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235443">With six guest staterooms, including a full beam owner’s suite on the owner’s deck, a full beam master on the main deck and four lower deck staterooms, all with their own ensuite bathrooms. While the owner’s suite and master staterooms align with the bright and beachy style of the main deck and sky lounge, the lower deck staterooms have each been styled in playful tones and prints.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235429/image/large-d4df958ddb0be3944377aa2f4d504559.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235429"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235426/image/large-94b81ba6edc981a33666d4b51550def2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235426">A representative of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> explained, “The owner and his family were directly involved in the styling and design process of the staterooms, in fact each cabin was made to measure to meet personal desires of each guest; one of the owner’s express request was to have bright spaces and a happy atmosphere full of colours for the younger family members especially. For this reason each guest cabin has white lacquered-oak staved walls that are enlivened with dashes of colour. Each stateroom is finished differently, personalised with its own colour scheme – red/brown, green/blue and pastel green – for the wall panels, profiling and furnishings.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235446/image/large-c3c26641f9c4aa122d8e0f97d1e60522.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235446"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235447/image/large-fd2a510963844b87d6d99cfdf10556bc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235447">Alessandro Pulina highlighted some of the fully custom elements to the interior, noting, “An impressive detail would be the presence of 9,000 slats, used to create the walls of the yacht, together with interesting curve elements made by hand. Every wall is characterised by a linear led illumination which highlights all these slats continuously and accentuates the shadows and light. In fact, we wanted to convey dynamism through the combination of dualistic contrasts and expressive colour ranges.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235408/image/large-c184ac2c699ae87c98e717b3f5af043a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235408">Like the exterior design, the interior plays with shape and form and the result is a highly unified yacht with flowing interior and exterior spaces.This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-issue-42" target="_blank">Issue 42 of SuperYacht Times newspaper.</a>&nbsp;To read more stories like this one and to never again miss another issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper,&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>.

CRN yacht RIO onboard

 Francesca Webster went behind the scenes with the designers of the 62m CRN superyacht RIO, launched in early 2022.

RIO: A closer look onboard CRN's 62m superyacht

Every journey starts with a dream, and the 44.47-metre Mangusta Oceano 44 superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11815" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sagas44.47m (145'11&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2022">Sagas</a> goes beyond this to push the boundaries of imagination. Delivered in 2022 from Pisa, Italy, and making her official debut at last year’s <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>, the innovative motor yacht redefines the concept of floating architecture, to create a stunning home away from home. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263455/image/large-a4b39f78b810f6c1d4c7653a3f6a6778.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263455">From the first time your eyes meet her profile, the Mangusta Oceano 44 demands to be acknowledged. Her steel hull and aluminium superstructure feature a streamlined and elegant silhouette with the perfect blend of glass, charm and audacity. She retains the exclusive style typical of Mangusta’s DNA, but the new tri-deck model is much more than a mere evolution of previous series. This model was conceived as the successor to the multi-award winning Mangusta Oceano 43 series and like all Mangusta yachts, she boasts large volumes and generous spaces. The Mangusta Oceano 44 also adds a new flare to the philosophy of global floating architecture by offering guests an ultra-modern ‘sea loft’, making her an overwater villa for her owner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263472/image/large-dce0d19d58b4ebd1506ab1ac0120f33c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263472"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263456/image/large-4b0955f91590e7df94da3c6d60381850.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263456">What makes her stand out from previous models is the ideology behind her development to reinterpret the concept of life at sea. Developed jointly by the Group’s Engineering department, designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3025" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mancini Yacht Design (Company)">Alberto Mancini</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4331" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="P.L.A.N.A. Design (Company)">P.L.A.N.A. Design</a> of engineer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="PierLuigi Ausonio Naval Architecture (Company)">Ausonio</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11815" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sagas44.47m (145'11&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2022">Sagas</a>’ design creates a seamless connection between her interior and exterior spaces. “The Mangusta Oceano 44 project called for a new interpretation and an evolution of the Mangusta Oceano 43 project,” commented designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3025" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mancini Yacht Design (Company)">Alberto Mancini</a> who took care of both her exteriors and interiors. “An important challenge that I wanted to approach in a radical way, was how we could create a new, more modern and usable general layout, together with an exterior design that almost completely reduces the structural toe rail of the aft upper deck to obtain an infinity deck.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263440/image/large-3e6002158bb04ce7c7e4285eb9a87448.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263440"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263405/image/large-7f1f1054897d02838e999d7454dd62b9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263405">The ultra-modern design of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11815" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sagas44.47m (145'11&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2022">Sagas</a> is characterised by a harmonious consistency between indoor and outdoor areas. Her extensive use of glass is shown throughout, but notably the steel handrails and bulwarks have been replaced by glass surfaces mounted flush with teak that blend seamlessly with the surroundings. “I was inspired by a penthouse in Miami,” commented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3025" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mancini Yacht Design (Company)">Mancini</a>. “I wanted to obtain an effect of suspension on the sea, and dividing the character of the yacht into two distinct areas; a contrast between the high, powerful naval bow and the emptying of the superstructure.” This opens up a possibility of new perspectives and helps to achieve impressively generous areas that would normally be unattainable on traditional tri-deck motor yachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263399/image/large-ea31d8b1891324494a4dd0a7f11caa6c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263399"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263404/image/large-fe6d49664ca7df217297147133a5296f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263404"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263403/image/large-0cf5a400c1b74eb0db4b995e60b5cc51.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263403"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263402/image/large-70459098ef66e7184a07185fba932a90.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263402"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11815" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sagas44.47m (145'11&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2022">Sagas</a> has been designed with exploration in mind, so comfort is high on the priority list. Her interior is adorned with a skilful combination of warm and cold materials, lacquered surfaces, matt woods, marbles and leather. The result is a flawless interpretation of contemporary minimalism that allows guests to indulge in pure relaxation. The main deck saloon showcases Poltrona Frau sofas with Calacatta marble flooring and table tops to create a luxurious environment. The dining area, located towards the bow, has been fitted out with a table and onyx centre piece and seating for up to 12 guests, under the illumination of a custom-made chandelier.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263423/image/large-d02498cb9c50d1cbd9a1bf7f2bb5c64e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263423"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263421/image/large-0cd91d9485edeb1a307cb1213bbb0fb4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263421"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263424/image/large-0c6572d8d329faaeb8aebd9ed41ee463.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263424"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263425/image/large-ff1de5366ad5562373434e2e1798602a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263425"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263415/image/large-ccf2d4324d1a9ef939cc0aa141197081.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263415"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263408/image/large-3987b2fc1f184a89334d1125b5d2e2bc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263408"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263414/image/large-d9ae36cca9632e6bb9b1b3d34cf605ae.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263414">The owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11815" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sagas44.47m (145'11&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2022">Sagas</a> opted to adapt her interior layout to create a second master stateroom on the upper deck with an exclusive, private view of the ocean. The stateroom is accessed via an internal staircase from the main deck lobby and leads to the owner’s dressing room. Her master suite is located on the main deck and is connected to the upper deck by the skylights within the infinity pool above. These allow the natural light to shine through the stateroom filling it with mesmerising water reflections throughout. The stateroom also comes fully equipped with a mechanically-driven balcony, from which the owner will be able to enjoy their own exclusive view of the ocean or a private evening drink.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263427/image/large-ce84c885800b804b2879687b7bc10fee.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263427"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263428/image/large-175b842194a6722d3c15068c08e5a408.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263428"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263429/image/large-37283e248aecc5efb882311f3e8374d8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263429"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263435/image/large-7341c35b69e8e64f2646f177672df5d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263435"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11815" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sagas44.47m (145'11&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2022">Sagas</a> is able to accommodate up to 12 guests and her lower deck is dedicated entirely to their comfort. Guests will be able to choose between two VIP and two twin staterooms with the latter including a third Pullman bed. Each of her staterooms has been harmoniously matched to the rest of her interior with coordinating colour shades and materials.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263387/image/large-d081300a33bb94cee826788ff2278cd3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263387"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263382/image/large-f77ed8d138a0744bc46bfaa69afcbc6e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263382"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263381/image/large-33b9e48dc9fd1d310e5c1c9cb2cea6b2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263381"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263386/image/large-bd8d45d7a6e43821740c9c38322654fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263386">However, the most distinguishing feature of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11815" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sagas44.47m (145'11&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2022">Sagas</a> is ‘The Island’ located on the upper deck; complete with an infinity pool and easily accessed via a teak deck. “A complete walk around her exterior combines the aft infinity deck to the forward sunbridge where a small bridge, I like to call ‘the Tibetan bridge’ leads to 'The Island’ surrounded by the water of the bow infinity pool,” commented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3025" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mancini Yacht Design (Company)">Alberto Mancini</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263394/image/large-7bbbf7a6e6a79087b88a35bf0ee1b141.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263394"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263398/image/large-78b61def1a7f89f0571084082c237a6a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263398"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263390/image/large-3538542a83972a91ac8f7ac510c25222.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263390">The outstanding beach club of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11815" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sagas44.47m (145'11&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2022">Sagas</a> is the perfect example of the harmony and fluidity that floats throughout this vessel. It was created with the intention of being the heart of social life. The transom and folding side terraces open the space up to create a 180-degree marine environment that is flooded with natural light from the side openings and the partially glazed main deck. This results in the admirable space being an incredibly airy and yet very cosy area.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263471/image/large-ebf3cb44b7759bb388fa7ad148e64305.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263471"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263373/image/large-c3aec6d17d8798f075d05c36fff418c2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263373"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263389/image/large-5e6617b11bd37e82f7bcf27901a75104.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263389"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/263396/image/large-65eb4a6946910df8a970607b6170b4d8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/263396">The performance of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11815" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sagas44.47m (145'11&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2022">Sagas</a> certainly matches her aesthetic as she boasts an impressive range of 4,500 nautical miles with a cruising speed of 11 knots and a maximum speed of 15.5 knots. She also creates an unparalleled comfort by ensuring zero-speed and underway stabilisers.This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-44" target="_blank">Issue 44 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>.

Onboard the first 44m Mangusta Oceano 44 superyacht Sagas

SYT takes a look onboard the first 44m Mangusta Oceano 44 superyacht Sagas, following her delivery in 2022.

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Onboard Sagas: The first 44m Mangusta Oceano 44 superyacht

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

After attempting to meet up during a very busy boot Dusseldorf, we finally had the chance to sit down with Nick Gelevert, Founder and CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6127" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Boatsters Black (Company)">Boatsters Black</a> over Teams in early February. Nick comes from a long line of yacht brokers, his grandfather Hans Lengers founding the Netherlands’ first brokerage. Today Nick is both the CEO of the ‘first Dutch superyacht charter company’ <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6127" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Boatsters Black (Company)">Boatsters Black</a> with seven international offices and an impressive portfolio of pedigree yachts, and the Sales Director of brokerage firm <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/359" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lengers Yachts (Company)">Lengers</a>. With expansion always on his mind, Nick has much in store for the boutique charter firm. SYT found out more. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262239/image/large-028247e85db04278e4d7d6c2adfec517.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262239">With a legacy of brokerage in your family, was it always your plan to become a broker?I was born and raised in the midst of the yachting industry, and of course it came to my mind from a young age that I might work in the industry as well. My grandfather started selling yachts in the 1970s and there was also a boat building business within the family, so yachting is truly part of my family heritage. When the time came for me to start my first business however, I decided to break from the family tradition and I founded a company within the real estate industry. I think it was partly a youthful rebellion – I was only 23 – but I quickly realised that I’d made a mistake not following my passion for the yachting industry.I had been an active and competitive sailor from the age of eight, racing every week, and of course having grown up within my family, yachting was truly where my heart lay. So I &nbsp;decided to pivot the concept I’d created within the real estate industry, and do something similar within yachting. The business became <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6127" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Boatsters Black (Company)">Boatsters</a>; the first AirBnB for boats. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/69988/image/large-e5de394c61cf3a6b29fbcc9408e9bf14.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69988">So how did an AirBnB for boats transform into a superyacht charter brokerage house?In 2015 we launched the platform and were the first in the world to do so. There were some other early adopters but we grew very quickly, operating in 63 countries with 12,000 boats available for rent. It was a successful beginning but we quickly realised that in order to become a truly profitable business, we would need a huge operational network. Boats are nothing like houses; they need work, maintenance and expansive shoreside support.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/50182/image/large-00c42362b1bed144ada7b119cd9afc4f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/50182">Why do you think that the company has done so well – how do you stand out from the crowd?At the same time as I was having these thoughts, clients from Lengers were generating leads and asking questions about Boatsters and enquiring if I could assist them with yacht charter. From these leads came a very organic transition into <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6127" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Boatsters Black (Company)">Boatsters Black</a>, where we began to work with crewed yachts above 20-metres. Not long after this transition, we took Boatsters offline and I focused my energies on the development of the superyacht charter business. Since that decision we’ve opened international offices, are managing some very exciting yachts and expect to double our fleet in 2023. The company is positive and profitable and with the direction we’re currently going, we will be one of the top players in the charter industry within a few years.&nbsp;I believe that our approach is what makes us stand out. We are a boutique charter company, and we don't have aspirations to be the biggest, we want to provide the best service to a limited number of clients. We have regular contact with owners, we offer a personal concierge service for onshore support, we are incredibly active and make our clients really feel how much we value them. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/216778/image/large-e3b74dc8cf7cf04994e4b19dd6e7c678.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/216778">What has it been like breaking into an industry that has been dominated by long standing and large companies, such as&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>?When we set out we knew it would be like David and Goliath, but I have always enjoyed a challenge. My aspiration when we set out was to establish <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6127" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Boatsters Black (Company)">Boatsters Black</a> as the industry’s first Dutch charter house, just as my grandfather was the first Dutch broker. I am happy to say we’ve achieved that goal and now we are looking to the next challenge.&nbsp;The yachting industry has an obsession with being the biggest, with companies claiming ‘the biggest charter fleet’ or the most charters completed, but what does that actually mean for the client? Very likely it means an impersonal approach, with yachts being managed by a conglomerate rather than a person &nbsp;– we do not aspire to become that kind of business!&nbsp;What are your plans for the future for the business?The next stage is expansion. We’ve built a base from which the company can grow exponentially and my attention first will be to make sure that our services are the best they can be. We aren’t going to be accepting any and all boats to the fleet, but really making sure that the yacht is able to offer clients the best services, with a stable crew and good knowledge base.&nbsp;In 2022 we had a revenue of over €12 million and with an expansion into the full spectrum of services including crewing and management, I expect that to see a stable increase this year. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/216755/image/large-6c1f9a59bba24e5170d83edfc3039cf0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/216755">Finally, what advice would you give to an aspiring entrepreneur?Firstly, focus on an aspect of this industry and be the best at that aspect. There are so many generalists within yachting and what there needs to be is more specialists. Secondly, know your product better than your client, there are too many brokers out there who don't truly understand superyachts and that does a disservice to clients and dissuades people from remaining in yachting.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262241/image/large-7cb830fd8f9d3ab3775a8b19035afdb5.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262241">Nick GelevertAge: 32Nationality: DutchSales revenue last 36 months: €200 million&nbsp;Company founded: 2014This article was originally published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-44" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issue 44 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 Nick Gelevert of Boatsters Black

We interviewed Nick Gelevert, CEO of Boatsters Black, for the latest edition of our Entrepreneur in Yachting series.

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Building the first Dutch superyacht charter brokerage: Nick Gelevert of Boatsters Black

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. 

market-insights#3

Meet superyacht interior designer, Valentina Zannier

The 24.78-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burger Boat Company (Company)">Burger Boat</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laid Back 24.78m (81'4&quot;)Burger Boat Company1989">Laid Back</a> sold in a deal with Bill Powers of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2578" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="26 North Yachts (Company)">26 North Yachts</a> introducing the buyer and Pam Barlow of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/10" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luke Brown Yachts (Company)">Luke Brown Yachts</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233587/image/large-019d4589b7bf473c618927c9d490772b.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233587">Delivered in 1989 from the United States, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laid Back 24.78m (81'4&quot;)Burger Boat Company1989">Laid Back</a> is part of the 80’ Burger series. She was designed in full by her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burger Boat Company (Company)">Burger Boat Company</a> which were responsible for her interior and exterior design, as well as her naval architecture.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233594/image/large-f7ac9ec5f6e942e4bf106a232a9ef7eb.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233594"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233593/image/large-4a66247e9f3e93eda81d06c996a94bd9.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233593"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233589/image/large-f1773b2a07be5eff6a33b9f8fd99af88.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233589"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laid Back 24.78m (81'4&quot;)Burger Boat Company1989">Laid Back</a> features a three stateroom configuration, with accommodation for up to six guests. She boasts a classic interior design with a high use of woods to accompany her contemporary main saloon. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233592/image/large-f8516c68df1ab3dced8f707f3959420f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233592"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233596/image/large-dfc47880c70d767b13eff8d94866a6ff.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233596">In terms of propulsion, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laid Back 24.78m (81'4&quot;)Burger Boat Company1989">Laid Back</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines which propel her to a top speed of 21 knots and a comfortable cruising speed of 17 knots. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Laid Back 24.78m (81'4&quot;)Burger Boat Company1989">Laid Back</a> had a last known asking price of $1,195,500. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233591/image/large-dee8a0f556781988c2fd5e8a0365b626.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233591">

25m Burger Boat yacht Laid Back sold

The 25m Burger Boat motor yacht Laid Back sold with a last known asking price of $1,195,500.

25m Burger Boat motor yacht Laid Back sold

The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a> has announced a new reinvestment fund for the superyacht industry, aimed at ocean conservation. The Ocean Assist Fund plans to promote a new path into nurturing both ocean and human vitality.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273322/image/large-81c76517a9d6ab0a6ba06abc70e22e99.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273322">The Ocean Assist Fund will be used to select marine conservation and restoration projects to allocate funds granted by the yachting community. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a> will use appropriate criteria to determine which projects are selected and will ensure that support goes to the most urgent needs.“By prioritising projects and adopting scientific tools that are urgently needed to protect the oceans, the superyacht community can maximise financial and non-financial resources to support nature-based solutions and aid the global effort to mitigate ecological impacts,” said <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/237001/image/large-34661eb661037cedcc9fa816ea2839c9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/237001">Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56401" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation unveils YETI 1.0 to evaluate environmental impact in yachting (2022-11-17 16:45:00 +0100)">Water Revolution Foundation unveils YETI 1.0 to evaluate environmental impact in yachting</a>The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a> will work with an independent scientific advisory board composed of renowned ocean scientists to identify the projects that will have the greatest impact in preserving the ocean and will feed back their findings to the yachting community.“By investing in ocean conservation through this programme, the superyacht community can act as a significant force to solve ocean problems and make a positive collective impact, not only for themselves but for the planet as a whole,” commented the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/210814/image/large-2f97f065978c36e73e041f8b3df36273.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/210814">Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56155" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sustainable mooring: How to preserve the world’s largest lung? (2022-10-13 14:30:00 +0200)">Sustainable mooring: How to preserve the world’s largest lung?</a>The project aims to raise awareness and commitment within the yachting community, and will transform financial support for ocean conservation into a business proposition. The project will create a new age of regenerative development in the yachting sector, to help revive our invaluable marine ecosystems.&nbsp;“The Ocean Assist programme will enable yachting to contribute to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals – which seek to protect planet’s and human health, conserve biodiversity, combat climate change and improve livelihoods for everyone, everywhere,” concluded the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240105/image/large-08aa65fd6517d3cb3aafc9d8202ab996.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240105">

Water Revolution Foundation announces Ocean Assist Fund

The Water Revolution Foundation has announced the Ocean Assist Fund for the superyacht industry, aimed at ocean conservation.

Water Revolution Foundation announces Ocean Assist Fund for ocean conservation

Turkey-based yacht builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin Yachts</a> has unveiled a new 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 superyacht model, with two hulls already in-build. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 motor yacht uses innovative design elements with outstanding craftsmanship and builds upon the already successful <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 163 model.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272706/image/large-0c86f28182ca880acdb5367f9982e42e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272706">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 yacht showcases a collaboration between renowned exterior designer Emrecan Özgün of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4305" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unique Yacht Design (Company)">Unique Yacht Design</a> and esteemed interior design house <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a>. The Bilgin 170 differs from her sistership the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 164, with a larger and more traditional bow shape, to create an overall sleeker appearance.“The layout of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170-I remains identical to its sibling models, ensuring familiarity and ease of use for customers,” explained Emrecan Özgün. “The primary goal during the design process was to optimise the 50-metre models, achieving a more sporty and masculine look, while blending the design seamlessly to offer customers the ability to utilise both open and enclosed spaces under 500 GT.”The interior of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 has been skillfully designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a> to complement her striking exterior. She focuses on luxury, comfort, and elegance, while combining the interior functionality with refined aesthetics.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272707/image/large-39a30d39b7a0df128f0dcd7bc793e298.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272707">“The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 draws on the experience gained from the successful 47 and 50-metre projects and combines elegance with timeless lines. The 499 GT yacht is able to accommodate up to 12 guests and a crew of nine. She has an elegant exterior and interior as well as a unique beach club and outdoor spaces,” explained Berkay Yılmaz, Commercial Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin Yachts</a>.The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 features an elongated bridge deck aft, extending by 1.5-metres to amplify her living space and offer a spacious and shaded area for guests to unwind. Her beach club on the lower deck ensures plenty of natural light with expansive windows when all three doors are closed.&nbsp;“We are thrilled to unveil the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170, a stunning yacht that represents the pinnacle of design and craftsmanship,” said İsmail Şengün, the CEO at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin Yachts</a>. “Emrecan Özgün's innovative approach and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/908" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hot Lab (Company)">Hot Lab</a>'s impeccable interior design have resulted in a vessel that exudes sportiness and elegance, elevating the yacht experience to new heights.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272704/image/large-18023ad16112c054f42e20bf68c83c55.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272704">Key features onboard the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 include her classic bow shape which provides additional private seating and sunbathing areas once her rescue boat for the tender is deployed. Her swim platform also provides direct contact with the sea, as well as sun loungers for guests to relax.The first unit of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1414" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bilgin Yachts (Company)">Bilgin</a> 170 series is scheduled for delivery by the end of 2024, followed closely by the second unit, which is slated to be available in time for 2025.

New 52m Bilgin 170 superyacht model in-build

Bilgin Yachts has unveiled a new 52m Bilgin 170 superyacht model, with two hulls already in-build.

Bilgin Yachts unveils 52m in-build Bilgin 170 superyacht

The demand for very large sailing yachts is nothing like that for large motor yachts, but over the last few years there has been increased interest in very large sailing yachts. Some projects have been delivered, some are under construction and others are on the drawing board. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271922/image/large-b991006523bd905dbed9b749b4cd42e1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271922">We ask a panel of experts – Bart van der Meer (engineering sailing systems at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/458" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rondal B.V. (Company)">Rondal</a>), Rudy Jurg (sales manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/458" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rondal B.V. (Company)">Rondal</a>), Rob Doyle (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a>), Thys Nikkels (<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>) and Bill Tripp (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dykstra Naval Architects (Company)">Tripp Design</a>) – about the challenges of designing, building and operating a 100-metre sloop.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271904/image/large-0e8d661bb3efb5b36591b231f65ec1e7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271904">Is it possible to create the mast and rigging for a 100-metre sloop that is both safe and Class approved?&nbsp;Bart van der Meer: Yes, it is certainly possible to create a complete rig and sailing system for a yacht of this size. It does, of course, present some interesting challenges, but Rondal has built its reputation on resolving challenges.&nbsp;Rob Doyle: For a 100-metre sloop in terms of length overall, no, it is not possible. For a 100-metre spar height, yes, that is possible. If someone says ’yes’ to a 100-metre LOA yacht they are out of their depth and have not fully researched all the options involved. At RDD we have done a huge amount of research on this question and we are one of the few naval architects and design studios that have an understanding of the complexibility of such a big rig. Class approval would be difficult, but they will lean hard on the naval architect’s calculations, research and experience.&nbsp;Thys Nikkels: When we are pushing boundaries with any aspect of a design the answer is always ‘Do your homework!’ If you do not have experience with a certain size or configuration you have to do the necessary research and development to prove the design is feasible. Feasible in concept, safe in construction and safe in operation, only then can you tell a client that it is possible, and to do that you have to work with a team of researchers, material specialists, builders to find the required solutions for the challenges.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/108433/image/large-6f7ee4bb350c7e7604865e0774d55463.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/108433">Are there any suppliers who would take the risk of building such a yacht?Bart van der Meer: We have already built three impressive 70-metre-plus &nbsp;rigs and are currently planning a large rig for an 85-metre sloop, which will become one of the world’s largest.Rob Doyle: There are two really only two manufacturers that can build big rigs. Rigging would be another significant difficulty, along with winches, systems, furling, hull structures, regulations and more.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271932/image/large-fe57b0ec686c9fcbbe3f0f91922d0a1d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271932">Even if you could build it, would it be safe to operate for the crew?Bart van der Meer: Given the exceptional loads, risk factors for the crew are already an important factor in planning sailing systems for today’s largest sailing yachts, especially when racing. These loads and the sheer length and weight of running rigging do increase exponentially when looking at a rig for a 100-metre sloop. But we should keep in mind that, at this end of the superyacht fleet, only the most highly qualified and experienced crew would manage and trim the sail plan. They would do so with access to very sophisticated load sensors and safety triggers to ensure loads and risks remain within the design boundaries. There is also the possibility that these big rigs could be operated fully automatically. Especially as the cost related to fully automating a sailing system becomes smaller in comparison to the overall cost. However, this route could present new challenges of its own until fully proven.Rob Doyle: We will always design rigs with safe operation in mind, the numbers involved are huge and operation of a sail plan of this size would be very difficult, if not impossible. The size of the systems to control such a rig are significant and very detailed research is required, the sparmakers can build very big rigs – the limit is the yacht not the spar tube.&nbsp;Thys Nikkels: In the end, a large sloop will only work for the client if it can be safely and relatively easily operated by the crew. Otherwise the rig will never, or only sporadically, be used.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/236181/image/large-38e23873797382eff5e629953f24cb77.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/236181">Have you had any requests for such a large project and do you expect that one day a client will decide to build one?Rudy Jurg: We have already been introduced to enquiries and concepts of this size that for one reason or another have yet to progress. I have little doubt that 100-metre-plus rigs will be built in the future. The first one will be commissioned by a very ambitious and visionary individual with deep pockets. Once this client’s project is afloat, others are more likely to follow.&nbsp;Rob Doyle: Yes, we have had requests for such yachts a number of times. What we explain first is that the jump from 78-metre M5 to a sloop with a spar length of 100 metres is enormous. If you have not designed and built big rigs before, then a client is very exposed. At RDD we have designed more big rigs, both sloop and ketches, than many other naval architects, but the numbers are staggering when you present the research and the real build numbers. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272049/image/large-6060ad9c10f61da7535208d03e662ce4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272049">What are the cost implications of building a 100-metre sloop compared with a schooner of similar size?&nbsp;Bart van der Meer: One of the biggest cost implications is that most of the hardware needs to be designed from scratch for the sloop. Nothing on this scale is readily available on the market: no furlers, no toggles, no winches. And it needs to be designed not just bigger, but exponentially bigger. Take a runner winch, for example. From a 30-metre sloop to a 60-metre sloop, the retrieving length will double and the pull force goes from roughly 10 to 30 tonnes. If you want to be able to retrieve the runners at the same time, you’ll need four times more winch power to double the speed and more than double the force.&nbsp;When you recall it was considered doubtful if you could fly a spinnaker from the mast of a 100-foot sloop 30 years ago, we can see that the evolution of marine design technology has always innovated to address such issues. The expertise is there to make the rig of a 100-metre sloop happen, &nbsp;as long as it is accepted that substantial system development costs as well as the hardware manufacturing costs will bear heavily on the first project. For these reasons, it will certainly cost more than the rig of a 100-metre schooner or ketch.Rob Doyle: Hard questions because if you want to be the tip of the sword, a visionary owner that wants to reach for the stars and build the biggest sloop. But you may need to ask yourself: is the ketch a better option at the 100-metre LOA size?<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/236173/image/large-d089b6d8c8cd89662da7e3fc43a4f62c.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/236173">Given all the factors above and from your own experience, what is the ideal size for a super-sloop?Rudy Jurg: It is difficult to say there is an ideal size, though we do know that the ‘ideal’ size keeps on growing as larger yachts prove their reliability and their capacity to deliver exceptional lifestyle experiences and amenities to owners and their guests. Ultimately the ‘ideal’ will always be related to owners’ plans, their financial resources, their vision and ambition.Rob Doyle: I believe an 85-metre LOA sloop would be the limit, but there are different factors at play that have to be understood and it's more about the length/beam ratio than LOA, which would be a more suitable metric to start with. On the limit of tube lengths, you need to ask the spar maker for that number, but we are comfortable with the tube lengths we have spoken to clients and sparmakers about.This article was originally published in September 2022 of Issue 1 of the How to Build It magazine. <a href="https://superyachttimes.com/api/download/how-to-build-it-issue-1" target="_blank">You can download the entire magazine for free here</a>.

Ask the Expert: Is a 100-metre sloop feasible or even desirable?

SYT asked a panel of experts about the challenges of designing, building and operating a 100-metre sloop.


The 23.98-metre eponymous <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless Yachts (Company)">Timeless</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8491" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless23.98m (78'8&quot;)Timeless Yachts2018">Timeless</a> sold at auction with broker Arjen Hoeksma of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/9" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Valk Yacht Brokers (Company)">De Valk Yacht Brokers</a> and auction organiser Wim Schimmel of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6345" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="YachtBid.com (Company)">YachtBid</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273147/image/large-9cdf3e8827b28f7ea267985a8939a44e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273147">The custom-built explorer yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8491" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless23.98m (78'8&quot;)Timeless Yachts2018">Timeless</a> was built and launched in 2018 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless Yachts (Company)">Timeless Yachts</a> in Poland. The aluminium motor yacht is equipped with two decks of luxury and features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1993" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Studio Strawinski (Company)">Yacht Studio Strawinski</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259773/image/large-b5267efe59a0c30aa7a699a187b7d97e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259773"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259774/image/large-ab9b68e33c321344cb59fb6a8743d69d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259774"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8491" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless23.98m (78'8&quot;)Timeless Yachts2018"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259762/image/large-57d8a09a47d3724e8c7a7fce6d39f2cd.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259762">Timeless</a> can comfortably sleep up to eight guests across a four stateroom layout and offers a timeless interior design with a neutral colour palette. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273148/image/large-3609236d22317356cee5295f47d2664f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273148"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259759/image/large-aa11e0dc64737a8b5f7dce57ed28dd8b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259759">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8491" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timeless23.98m (78'8&quot;)Timeless Yachts2018">Timeless</a> is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1483" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cummins Inc. (Company)">Cummins</a> engines, giving her a top speed of 12 knots. At the time of her sale, Timeless had a starting price at auction of €1,000,000.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/259755/image/large-02ecfdb667ba2ce773a4ca8f5b226f4d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/259755">

Explorer yacht Timeless sold at auction

The 24m Timeless yacht Timeless sold at auction with a last known starting price of €1,000,000. 

24m explorer yacht Timeless sold at auction

The 29-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/886" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Intermarine Savannah (Company)">Intermarine</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5543" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lukousaurus29.0m (95'2&quot;)Intermarine Savannah2001">Lukousaurus</a>&nbsp;previously named Krishelle, has been sold with Matthew Martin of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> representing the buyer and Peter Jeisey of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Grand Isle Marina (Company)">Grand Isle Marina</a> representing the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273152/image/large-8bdac6b289c8e1c258b395ba718419e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273152">The flybridge yacht was delivered in 2001 and is the ninth-largest yacht built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/886" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Intermarine Savannah (Company)">Intermarine</a>. She features interior design by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/150" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pavlik Design Team (Company)">Pavlik Design Team</a>. Up to six guests are accommodated onboard the superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5543" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lukousaurus29.0m (95'2&quot;)Intermarine Savannah2001">Lukousaurus</a>, and she also has accommodation for three crew members including the captain. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273153/image/large-e19fce349a3584a61a2c665c9a9f1831.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273153"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273154/image/large-242b61559360d3226ed6fe6523d3c6fa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273154">The flybridge yacht is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, which give her a top speed of 22 knots. The yacht carries 15,991 litres of fuel onboard.Her last known asking price was $1,595,000.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/190630/image/large-ff93ff09df2c68c6b6c73caaba78150a.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/190630">

29m Intermarine flybridge yacht Lukousaurus sold

The 29-metre Intermarine flybridge yacht Lukousaurus has sold with Fraser representing the buyer and Grand Isle Marina representing the seller

29m Intermarine motor yacht Lukousaurus sold

The 24.73-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11965" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alin24.73m (81'2&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2010">Alin</a> has been sold in an in-house deal with Marco Fiorani of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4585" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Idea Yachting (Company)">Idea Yachting</a> representing both the buyer and the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218596/image/large-864486f9b85dfc9372a38a171aada1a7.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218596"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218588/image/large-4f519970c2f52d94910802cae0667114.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218588"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218589/image/large-bcdefded288920af83581702979a0482.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218589">The motor yacht was delivered in 2010 and features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuccon International Project (Company)">Zuccon International Project</a>, while her interior was also penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuccon International Project (Company)">Zuccon International Project</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti Yachts</a>. Up to eight guests are accommodated onboard the superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11965" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alin24.73m (81'2&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2010">Alin</a>, and she also has accommodation for four crew members, including the captain. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11965" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alin24.73m (81'2&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2010"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218586/image/large-4449acff63ccec040b780eff05b8cac6.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218586"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218600/image/large-45c738fb1fdab4085b2281a5faca0250.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218600">Alin </a>has a grp hull and grp superstructure. She is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines, which give her a cruising speed of 27 knots and a top speed of 30 knots. The yacht carries 6,750 litres of fuel onboard, and 1,320 litres of water.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/218603/image/large-4fd75083ae73aa12dd93762a1fd8522c.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/218603">Her last known asking price was €2,200,000.

25m Ferretti motor yacht Alin sold

24.73-metre Ferretti motor yacht Alin has sold with Marco Fiorani of Idea Yachting, representing both the buyer and the seller.

The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/176" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta - 2023">Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta</a> got off to a perfect start yesterday. A north-easterly breeze of about 7 knots intensified, as expected, to around 12 knots and rotated towards the southeast over the course of the day. At 1 p.m. the Race Committee sounded the start for the 45-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/476" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fitzroy Yachts (Company)">Fitzroy Yachts</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1684" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gitana45.0m (147'8&quot;)Fitzroy Yachts2009">Gitana</a> was the first superyacht off the line in the staggered starting sequence. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273210/image/large-1ca68fcebecb25729ddbe561c9b9ef4c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273210">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> division started their races at 1:30 p.m and the SW105 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10474" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SØRVIND34.59m (113'6&quot;)Southern Wind2022">Sørvind</a> quickly flew ahead of the fleet. Both divisions started in Porto Cervo before rounding the island of Monaci. After leaving the Monaci lighthouse to port, the superyacht division sailed up the coast of the island of Caprera and entered the Saline gulf, where they left a mark to port before returning to Porto Cervo via the Bisce Pass, for a total of approximately 20 miles.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273214/image/large-9e5198223ed71b0cf766b8e8ad9b612a.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273214">Until the first mark, the Wallycento <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V30.48m (100'0&quot;)Wally2017">V</a> remained at the back of the fleet, but took a close line around the Monaci island, jibbing ahead of the fleet and taking a steady lead on the race to the island of Caprera. The superyacht's lead steadily grew throughout the afternoon, with the rest of the fleet behind her. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273213/image/large-9cad2daf9a17b1b42df2cf63f9c4f266.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273213">The first day saw the 33-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/327" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baltic Yachts (Company)">Baltic</a> 108 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4749" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="WinWin33.04m (108'5&quot;)Baltic Yachts2014">WinWin</a> take victory in the Superyacht Cruising Class division, followed by another 108-footer in the form of Inoui, with owner-helmsman and regular participant in the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta, Marco Vogele, on board. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4020" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Inoui33.4m (109'7&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2013">Inoui</a> fought for most of the course with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5680" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pattoo33.0m (108'3&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2016">Pattoo</a>, another 33-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters</a> yacht which already has a win in Porto Cervo under her belt, when she was known as Missy. The Wallycento <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V30.48m (100'0&quot;)Wally2017">V</a>, meanwhile, claimed the top spot in the Combined Performance and Cruising Class, finishing the race by a 2 minute corrected lead, having started last in the staggered starting sequence.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273215/image/large-d39a3ba7e0942006f83c4c4454284d09.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273215">Ken Read, multi-award winning sailor and tactician on the Wallycento <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V30.48m (100'0&quot;)Wally2017">V</a>, declared: "We couldn't have asked for a better day here in Porto Cervo. Sunshine, flat seas and a gentle breeze of 12 knots, a perfect situation for these boats. The beauty of this place always amazes me and sailing here with these boats is a unique experience, they let me have a few moments in which to look around and smile, because honestly there is nothing more beautiful than all this."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273216/image/large-8fefcfc59674712fada243c28e3a3226.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273216">Results aren't drawn up for the boats taking part in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> Rendezvous, reflecting the particularly convivial atmosphere that reigns at this gathering, now in its 17th edition. The fleet sailed in a compact group and the owners were able to enjoy the same course as the Superyacht division. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273212/image/large-5876fe1fa0da0cc510c8beaa12159f3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273212">Racing continues today, 8th June, with a breeze similar to today's forecast. The start for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> Rendezvous division is scheduled for 11:30 a.m, followed by the Superyacht division at around midday. Organised by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (Company)">Yacht Club Costa Smeralda</a> with the support of title sponsor Giorgio Armani, the event is is now in its 16th edition.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273211/image/large-293abf27b8bbaa226731cc42ce1438a7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273211">

Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2023 day 1

The Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta began yesterday with wallycento V taking the day.

Wallycento V takes the first day at the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273033/image/large-666e4cc9afe6511029b40f19c9037df1.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273033">Spotted last week anchored in Antibes is the 91.5-metre Ice-Classed superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4018" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tranquility91.5m (300'2&quot;)Oceanco2014">Tranquility</a>. Previously known as Equanimity, the true world exploration vessel was delivered in 2014 as one of the largest vessels in the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> fleet. She features 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>, elegant exterior lines by her builder and an oriental-inspired interior penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Winch Design (Company)">Winch Design</a>. Onboard, the 2,998 GT superyacht can accommodate up to 18 guests and comes complete with a helicopter landing pad, a large swimming pool as well as a gym and wellness centre. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4018" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tranquility91.5m (300'2&quot;)Oceanco2014">Tranquility</a> is currently listed for sale with an asking price of €149,900,000. She's also available for charter with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a>. Take a closer look <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/53489" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Five coolest things to do on board Tranquility (2021-08-09 12:00:00 +0200)">onboard here</a>.

92m superyacht Tranquility in Antibes

The 92m superyacht Tranquility, built by Oceanco, is seen here anchored in Antibes.

The 60.96-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> has entered the market. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/samadhi/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Samadhi, for sale</a>, was commissioned by experienced owners and has been maintained to the highest standards, leaving her in turnkey condition for her new owner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273156/image/large-2c77f3d6b7f8fdd330e353849437c5d4.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273156"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> features exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/30" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Voogt Naval Architects (Company)">De Voogt</a> and has recently completed an extensive refit in May 2023. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> also boasts a contemporary interior design by the highly sought after French designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rémi Tessier (Company)">Rémi Tessier</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273158/image/large-daf86144ea0b19cb956ee874b7754b56.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273158"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273159/image/large-adec3172a22e865e28c8d3070c512713.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273159"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273157/image/large-1e3332a9b18c44c3df3d068ddc655e8b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273157"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> offers guests 1,036 GT of interior space, and her large main saloon is bathed in plenty of natural light, thanks to picture windows that line her port and starboard lengths. Forward of this area is her dining area with seating for up to 10 guests around her circular table.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273162/image/large-2d911aa5f2a0856d787122b4cb1aa167.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273162"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273177/image/large-264c62eef56c98f56303d6288e1989a8.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273177">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests across a six stateroom configuration, with her owner's suite located on the main deck. The master suite includes an office, handcrafted wardrobes and a luxurious marble ensuite bathroom with sauna, tub and shower.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273171/image/large-c621da269dc4ea50fb1c4dced4019861.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273171"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273174/image/large-84aec8bfe616f2046337931e5012c871.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273174"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273176/image/large-b596e1f6e6e7754e15b7c2280ec1019b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273176">The remaining guest staterooms are situated on the lower deck and consist of two double staterooms and two convertible twins, all with ensuite bathrooms. There is also an additional stateroom which is suited for children, or staff such as a nanny.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273160/image/large-e2c84bd8b93d3fe3b758bd7269e3ec1f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273160"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273163/image/large-612f41f03323e071ae2748d6a455233d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273163"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> features plenty of exterior spaces, perfect for entertaining or socialising. Her skylounge includes a cinema room, which connects to the upper deck alfresco dining area. Other key amenities onboard include a fully equipped gym and a packed toy box with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3030" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cayago AG / Seabob (Company)">Seabobs</a>, Jet Skis, a waterslide, trampoline and an assortment of diving and snorkelling gear.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273190/image/large-851a140faf30ccfb125082e9b96c2749.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273190">=<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273185/image/large-9531e439140a8edab685ed3224e3da9d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273185">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/feadship/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Feadship yacht for sale</a> comes equipped with a fleet of three tenders, including a 2022 VQ45 Vanquish Chase Tender, for making the most of shore excursions. Her large swim platform can be accessed via an elegant staircase from her main deck aft, providing direct access to the ocean.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273183/image/large-74464d8cd571349b577653afd6581fdb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273183"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273180/image/large-41386f76e1b27af67eff31db061e2466.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273180"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273186/image/large-24c36e7130e14a893e34b288b6cf4503.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273186">The upper deck of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> allows guests to relax with panoramic views, as well as shade from her hard top. Guests can also make use of her sun deck to top up their tans, or lounge in her raised Jacuzzi.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273193/image/large-8269ab0b4f2d5f0ec316199d0e6b7060.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273193"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273192/image/large-fd51a7a58b480155bd334683868986f3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273192">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samadhi60.96m (200'0&quot;)Feadship2006">Samadhi</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines allowing her to reach a top speed of 16 knots and cruise at 13 knots with an ocean-crossing range of 5,000 nautical miles.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/273196/image/large-20f17d6a3243cb9faa310ba269b1a045.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/273196">

61m Feadship superyacht Samadhi for sale

The 61m Feadship superyacht Samadhi has entered the market in turnkey condition. 

The 43.58-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> has been hauled to the Safe Harbor Lauderdale Marine Center in South Florida, USA in preparation for her stabilization refit. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6773" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Starboard Yacht Group. (Company)">Starboard Yacht Group</a> has been entrusted with the major refit, which has an expected completion date of the beginning of 2023.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232624/image/large-8136924762f4ae708b6d311e933c002e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232624">The yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> was delivered in 1988 from the Netherlands, and was commissioned by American entrepreneur John Staluppi, with the aim of breaking through the 50-knot barrier. She achieved this, and was once the fastest yacht in the world, topping out at 53.17 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232625/image/large-143b7bd225e13d924b43204da7fafcaa.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232625"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a>’s owner requested the refit in order to restore the vessel’s original performance, after her previous owners’ alterations caused the yacht the inability to go over 15 knots. The refit will include the installation of 3 Seakeeper gyro-stabilizers, Humphree’s trim and stabilizing system, and a new propulsion system.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232626/image/large-9086233c25de8623e455c40ec8b57f26.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232626"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6773" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Starboard Yacht Group. (Company)">Starboard Yacht Group</a> will be working closely with her original naval architect designer, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Design (Company)">Mulder Design</a> to make <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a> better than before without compromising her iconic original design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232623/image/large-b339136fccab3370cb8f130a382e4cc9.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232623">

Heesen’s 44m yacht Octopussy prepares for major refit

The 44m Heesen yacht Octopussy, which was once the world’s fastest superyacht, is preparing for a major refit to restore her to her former glory.

Newspaper

The refit of the iconic 43m Heesen superyacht Octopussy