Around 1000 kilometres from the shores of mainland Ecuador sits a rocky outcrop of islands that rupture the horizon, towering over the vast surface of the Pacific Ocean. Famed for its wealth of biodiverse species, volcanic origins and a history entangled with adventurers from Charles Darwin to the pirates and plunderers of yore, it is, of course, The Galápagos Islands. It’s an archipelago that the owner and crew of the 37.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Picchiotti (Company)">Picchioti</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1141" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Stella Maris37.8m (124'0&quot;)Picchiotti1987">Stella Maris</a> know well.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232298/image/large-f9c18e6198c75879bf552524f7013c56.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232298">The yacht, built in 1987, has spent decades chartering the island’s coasts. Her owner tells us, “We are a family-run business with a passion for both yachts and the sea.” Explaining, “We’ve been operating cruises in The Galápagos since 1980 and currently have a fleet of four yachts, with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1141" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Stella Maris37.8m (124'0&quot;)Picchiotti1987">Stella Maris</a> being the most luxurious.” When asked why The Galápagos Islands are such a special spot for chartering, her owner says, “The island’s natural habitat and UNESCO World Heritage site status make it one of the most prized vacation destinations in the world.” Explaining, “The flora, fauna, eco-systems and pristine landscape on each of the islands are unique and this makes for a breathtaking experience that can’t be compared to a yacht trip anywhere else in the world.”&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232297/image/large-eca505ce33d3d0d637de9fc955e0b6c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232297">If there’s one thing you should never forget to pack on a trip to these volcanic isles, it’s a camera and a solid pair of binoculars. Abundant with weird and wonderful wildlife in Instagram-worthy locations, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1141" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Stella Maris37.8m (124'0&quot;)Picchiotti1987">Stella Maris</a>’ owner has a hard time picking any one particular stand-out spot to visit. “It is very difficult to pinpoint my favourite place on The Galápagos Islands because each island really is a unique piece of paradise. Amongst my favourite places though, are Española, Bartolome, San Cristobal and the Isabela islands.”&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232306/image/large-80e300d216ceeb637ae1df864b95927d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232306">Simply cruising the outskirts of these islands makes for a memorable holiday experience, but according to her owner, that’s just the start. “You can enjoy the surrounding nature and wildlife by way of diving, snorkelling, fishing, trekking or hiking through wetlands, forests or to the top of an active volcano.” Other unmissable activities include meeting the locals and seeing how sugar cane and coffee are produced, or surfing on San Cristobal island. Historical landmarks like the Wall of Tears, where prisoners were sent in the 1900s, and Post Office Bay on Floreana Island, where sailors in the 1800s would leave letters for fellow sailors, add an air of intrigue to this diverse destination. As <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1141" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Stella Maris37.8m (124'0&quot;)Picchiotti1987">Stella Maris</a>’ owner explains, “Put simply, The Galápagos Islands are like no other place in the world.”&nbsp;What to do in The Galápagos IslandsSpot a giant tortoise&nbsp;The Galapágos Islands are home to a biodiverse bunch of creatures. Most famous, though, are the island’s endangered giant turtles. While you can find these curious-looking creatures dotted across the islands, make a point of visiting a tortoise hotspot such as the El Chato reserve on the island of Santa Cruz.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232307/image/large-b0b9a1c98f408c101426568b52f4a24a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232307">Climb up a volcano When visiting a volcanic island, climbing an active volcano is one experience you don’t want to miss. The Sierra Negra Volcano has the largest basaltic caldera —&nbsp;a bowl-shaped crater caused by the collapsing summit of a shield volcano — in the Galápagos.Go sealife spotting at Pinnacle RockDon’t forget to take your camera to Pinnacle Rock on Bartolome Island. You’ll want to photograph not just the impressive scenery, but also the local sea life which includes sea turtles, penguins, sea lions, starfish and anemones.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232305/image/large-d603647f4d9a84437875d00404a90110.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232305">Swim with sharks There are an impressive 33 species of sharks living in, and around, The Galapágos Islands, making any diving trip one to remember. Many can be tracked down around Wolf and Darwin Islands as sharks in the region are drawn towards the cold Humboldt current that runs through the area. Whale sharks are also abundant in the region from June until November, and manta rays can be spotted from December until May.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232304/image/large-dbb5295fe6fd35f3a5589ecc54ebaee6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232304">Visit pirate caves Nestled between trading routes from the Americas back to Asia and Europe, The Galapágos Islands were once a hotspot for sailors, pirates and whalers. Today, holiday-goers can visit spots such as Pirate Cove on Fernandina Island and the pirate caves on Floreana Island to spot historical graffiti and imagine what it might be like to discover long-forgotten treasure.

Stella Maris in The Galápagos

Stella Maris cruising

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Galapagos, Ecuador

Sea Turtle

St-Barthélémy Island, Galapagos

Giant Tortoise

The Galápagos Islands is famed for its natural beauty, marine species and stamp on scientific history. This is what it’s like to cruise there.

Travel spotlight: Stella Maris in The Galápagos

Richard Raper on his love of Hoek yachts, sailing and the 39m Atalante

Richard Raper, the owner of the 38.5-metre Claasen sailing yacht Atalante, discusses his experience as a sailing yacht owner. 

It is not unusual, when speaking with yacht owners, to find that very few spend more than a few weeks a year aboard their yacht, even now when superyachts are able to double as home offices and many have impressive autonomous capabilities. One couple that bucks that trend however, are the owners of the 40-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a>, who enjoy, not a few weeks, but almost a week per month for the entire Mediterranean summer aboard their semi-custom <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>. We recently sat down with the owners to hear more about the customisations made to their yacht, including the embroidered panels made by a collective of Vietnamese women, their love of adventure and passion for cruising in Croatia. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181215/image/large-c194f92d6c46f8bb1d84ce81077ad125.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181215">Tell us about your history with yachts and how you came to build a superyacht?Husband: It all started with our love of being in nature. Being outside reminds us of our place in the world and being on the water is really the epitome of the outdoors experience – enjoying the day from sunrise to sunset, swimming in the sea and exploring hidden islands. That passion drove us to our first yacht charters more than 15 years ago aboard 55 foot motor yachts, but we were always disappointed that by 2pm captains and crew wanted to leave the anchorages and head into port.&nbsp;We didn't get into chartering to sit stern-to in marinas. We wanted to wake up in private bays and jump straight into the water, but the crew had other priorities – which we also understood. We realised that to really have that autonomy and to go where we wanted to go, we needed our own yacht, so in 2010 we bought a 26-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Yachts (Company)">Princess</a> in Croatia, which was the moment we met Captain Boris and Chief stewardess Nicky, who are still with us today.Wife: Croatia became our second love and really offered us everything we could want in a yachting destination. By 2016 we were spending weeks at a time aboard and that experience really taught us what we loved (and didn’t love), eventually leading to the decision to build our own dream yacht. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/112577/image/large-c7aa374fb8078904f134f0fc0589f639.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112577">So in 2017 you acquired an in-build semi-custom&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>&nbsp;Classic Supreme 132, later to become&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a>, can you share some of those unique customisations?Husband: For us the sundeck is the best place to be throughout the year, with the great views and best sunshine. Most superyachts feature an open sundeck, but because we start using the yacht in April and continue through to October, it can get windy and chilly so we decided instead to close the central section to create a protected area which is unique for this series. It’s been such a success because it made that deck a lot more versatile and usable, and with heaters inside you have a great spot to sit whatever the weather. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181246/image/large-1cb99dcb8ba2dc6b9894edbe6fcd7007.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181246">The second thing is that most yachts have at least one dining table on every deck, as well as in the main saloon, but for us this just seemed like an unnecessary use of space. We decided instead to use the middle deck as a sporty, fun space where we could play games with friends and entertain. We had a self-levelling pool table and a foosball table made, added a bar with beer taps and this is the space that we use all the time when onboard – whether it's just the two of us or we have friends and it is also loved by our charter guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181233/image/large-10201c7c7d050b0f815cdfc433b1f15b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181233">Did you have charter guests in mind when you were designing the yacht, particularly as you designed the interiors yourselves?Wife: It was our dream to create an active boat where we could have fun, so these choices were really personal decisions for us, but it happens that they are also loved by charter guests, especially because she is quite unusual. The most important thing for us was to create a space that felt like home, whereas most boats are fairly neutral in their interior design but we wanted to add our spirit to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181236/image/large-911583c9ebfedd2ab95c636e65639637.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181236">I worked hard on her design because it was important to create something visually beautiful, but that fit with our life. We spent a long time considering the material choices, to make sure she was robust enough to withstand quite a bit of use, but also so that the crew had an easy experience with the boat. We really didn’t want to come aboard and spend our time worrying about spilling things on the floor, so the balance between beauty and functionality was very important.Husband: The interior configuration is also very tailored to our lifestyle, with the formal main saloon and then the more informal and entertainment area above. We have also created a massage room on the middle deck and have two therapists within the crew.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181240/image/large-fc551d86e69603f996acf976f05f7b3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181240">Can you tell us a bit about the embroidery panels that adorn many of the spaces?Wife: I am half Vietnamese and I travel there often for work on a foundation that I run, alongside my husband. This embroidery technique is deeply embedded in Vietnamese culture and over the years I have much admired the artistry of the work. During one trip some years ago I visited the women who created these panels and spent some days with them learning about their craft and I was deeply inspired by their commitment to their work. It takes around 10 years to qualify in this technique, but if they want to create a face, it is another five years of training. This is something truly unique and I wanted to share this heritage with our friends and the charter guests, so perhaps they can also be inspired by this incredible work. And actually even the embroidery materials have been specially selected for their resilience to salty air to protect them while onboard the yacht!<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314699/image/large-fb768483a6ea8a39b4ee22c94c5a53a4.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314699">What does a normal day onboard&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a>&nbsp;look like for you and your guests? Husband: We really use every part of this yacht, moving from deck to deck throughout the day and even sitting on the observation foredeck when cruising at night and taking in the stars. We love to listen to classical music in the main saloon, and rock music on the middle deck, while the sundeck is where we spend most of our time. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181247/image/large-2a725a2994f7c682a170ed38bc4de39a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181247">We also have the full spectrum of tenders and toys, including a 12-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5733" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Technohull (Company)">Technohull</a> Explorer 40 tender with two Yamaha 425 hp engines that we tow behind the yacht. We decided to go for a proper tender so that we can explore hidden bays during the day, pick up guests from beaches safely and easily and tow wakeboards and water skis. We also have two of everything you could need for fun on the water; Jet Skis, e-foils, kayaks and eight bikes (just to name a few). As you can tell we really do love being outdoors and having fun, and all of these additional things are brilliant for charter guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181245/image/large-0f208dd0a2882fab6a4e2a84e62217e1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181245">If it isn’t clear from all of the above, the owners of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a> take real joy in their yacht, working closely with their crew of 15 years and spending as much time onboard as they can. Croatia is their top destination and the yacht spends her time when not in use in the port of Trogir near Split. If you want to find out more about <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6994" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Happy Me40.24m (132'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Happy Me</a>, she is chartered exclusively with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>.&nbsp;This article is featured in&nbsp;Issue 49&nbsp;of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;You can find a full archive of all previous SuperYacht Times newspapers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper" target="_blank">here</a> and as a premium subscriber you can download archive editions at any time.&nbsp;

Happy Me yacht owner interview

Francesca Webster sits down with the owners of Happy Me, to hear more about what brings them joy aboard their yacht.

Owner insight: Croatia, customisations and the 40m Benetti superyacht Happy Me

It’s not often that you meet an owner aboard their yacht during a boat show. It is even less often that they’re happy to sit down and talk about their yacht. A clear exception to that rule is Beth Hamilton, owner of the 43-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Overmarine Group SPA (Company)">Overmarine</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6872" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanctuary42.3m (138'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2018">Sanctuary</a>, which Beth bought in the summer of 2022. Her first superyacht, Beth comes from the luxury hospitality industry and acquired <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6872" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanctuary42.3m (138'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2018">Sanctuary</a>, previously Eva. 4Eva, as a second offering to the spectacular villa she owns on the Greek island of Spetses. Elysian Villa, which is a stone’s throw from Spetses old harbour, was acquired by Beth five years ago and has since become one of the island's most coveted destinations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/313020/image/large-6bc0c2020f77489543e9ee9a0e469f6c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/313020">&nbsp;While she was a sailor in her youth, it wasn’t Beth’s grand ambition to necessarily own a yacht, she explains; “My USP is that I am the owner, and I am hugely passionate about the success of the client experience, and once clients realise that, they often want to have a direct connection with me. We offer a full service experience, so I organise everything from their helicopter transfers, VIP transfers through the airport, right through to organising the rest of their trip – which often transpired to be a yacht charter.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312506/image/large-c83618ad5f554b7e991688e1812ab12a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312506">It was this final element that eventually encouraged Beth to acquire a yacht of her own, so that she could offer clients the yacht, and guarantee the same level of service and excellence as she offered at the villa. The yacht was bought, therefore, with charter in mind and Beth felt she could bring a unique offering to the Greek charter sector from a hospitality perspective, while utilising the existing client base from the Elysian Villa.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/313022/image/large-0ab3f6ac6a4a5306e4901be12a06ca2f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/313022">Utilising her own experiences as a yacht charterer, and that of her friends and clients, Beth began to build a list of requirements and to understand what charter clients today are looking for. “Clients today are getting younger and younger, they are entrepreneurs, with young families and they want to experience adventure on their holidays. Of course we also have clients who want the beach club experience and we can deliver on that, but what we are offering is that bit of excitement. We also noticed that crew are vital to the success of a charter and so we worked hard to recruit each member ourselves.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312524/image/large-b4d3f08c227992d36d41dc8c0a0b153c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312524"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312522/image/large-f77c913d89e2ae222b8b4f6ab89f681e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312522">Beth originally worked in the recruitment sector, running her own business prior to the acquisition of Elysian Villa, so she knows people and how to find the best candidates for the yacht. Beth explained that every member of the crew had been hand selected for the yacht, a process that she oversaw personally. “For me, skills can be taught,” she explains, “I can teach them how to deliver the service we expect, but you cannot teach personality, character and empathy, and these are the skills that set crew members apart. Chartering is all about people. Good service doesn’t need to be stuffy and formal, and the experience we offer onboard is based on what I believe these clients are looking for.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312534/image/large-2388cf9055fac5cc451f09c9a71d0777.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312534">It is not only the crew that elevates the guest experience however. While touring the yacht, Beth showed a number of gifts that are offered to guests each night, totalling an impressive 25 during the course of a one week charter. Beth adds, “I am obsessed with hotels and resorts and over the years we’ve been collecting ideas from the best travel experiences we have had. Onboard Sanctuary we offer a selection of gifts that are unique to the guests – from Oakley sunglasses for the men, to a hair care kit for the women. It becomes part of the week and we often find guests talking about the nightly turndown service at dinner in the evenings.” &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312537/image/large-8f1cd648db841cfa12167a2ca0dbbb04.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312537">When it comes to the yacht herself, the interior spaces and variety of on deck areas were key to the decision process. Making minor amendments to the deck arrangements, particularly removing a large table from the upper aft deck, Beth has opened up the boat and ensured that there are plenty of versatile areas for guests to enjoy. The yacht has a unique foredeck infinity pool that is a particularly popular area when coming into a bay, plus she has been fully equipped with all of the latest tenders and toys. Beth has also acquired a 14-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anvera (Company)">Anvera</a> chase boat, which arrives this June, and which will support Sanctuary and offer another option particularly when taking guests on daily excursions to shore. The boat will also offer easier accessibility to older guests who sometimes struggle with boarding and disembarking from the superyacht at anchor. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312533/image/large-580240708ba27fde8ee4d22be73e1763.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312533">“When we were viewing yachts, we were looking for a particular feel. We wanted to find something that felt well built, bright and welcoming but also elegant and that could match the level of design that our guests from Elysian Villa expect. We toured a number of boats and some of them just felt cheap in terms of construction and interior outfitting. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6872" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanctuary42.3m (138'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2018">Sanctuary</a> is a good-looking yacht, with lovely lines and she is really quiet when underway which is very important.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312507/image/large-630ab3f17fea60d0e4920ae31dab631c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312507">When it comes to Beth’s personal experience as a yacht owner, the transition has been an interesting one, partly because she has faced some resistance to getting so involved in the management of her yacht. “I realise that I am an unusual owner, but having a good captain and a good charter manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> has been a huge benefit. If there is one thing you have to have it’s an honest relationship with your team and crew and only that will enable you to create a really exceptional charter experience for your guests.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312510/image/large-fffc176526a164db2e1cd415fdb9b3d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312510"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6872" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanctuary42.3m (138'9&quot;)Overmarine Group SPA2018">Sanctuary</a> is chartered in Greece and her captain has a huge wealth of experience. On his time off he explores the islands with a depth gauge to find new bays and hidden locations and to ensure that Sanctuary can anchor there comfortably, meaning he can squeeze the yacht into the most unexpected places. She also carries a Michelin star trained Greek chef, who ensures that the guests are eating the best and most local food available. Coming back to the crew, Anna Granlund, Head of Charter Management at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> adds, “The crew is really the heart of this yacht. International and highly skilled, they work as a team and blend together really well, offering the guests a level of service that I have rarely experienced aboard a yacht.” To find out more about Sanctuary, reach out to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> who are managing her charters in Greece this summer. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312505/image/large-4bf1c97ae62033dabf132c5b763a9afa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312505">

Beth Hamilton Sanctuary yacht

We sit down with yacht owner Beth Hamilton to hear about her yacht Sanctuary.

Owner insight: Beth Hamilton and her 43m superyacht Sanctuary

Frédéric Jousset is a pioneer in technology and art and has crafted an enormously successful career spanning several decades. Yet, after reaching the summit of Mount Everest, the businessman sought more nautical endeavours - a philanthropic 46.5-metre catamaran dedicated to providing art and culture for public audiences. It is an inaugural idea in theory but one that Jousset has mastered. Having grown up with two parents anchored in the world of the arts: his mother, chief curator at Beaubourg, and his father, President of the GEFIP and the École normale de Musique de Paris, Frédéric Jousset turned his business expertise and privilege to craft a floating public gallery.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302657/image/large-6fdcd93b1405b865d072232b4ea3e556.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302657">As the world's preeminent aluminium sailing catamaran, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a> heralds a new era for the yacht builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> after its acquisition by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">The Italian Sea Group</a> in 2021. A floating gallery of culture, the curated catamaran embarks on a globetrotting two-year journey with a mission to cultivate unique artistic experiences. French architect Axel de Beaufort has lent his vision to the yacht’s internal and external design, crafting spaces where art and the oceanic landscapes converse.&nbsp;Ahead of her 2024 expedition, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4509" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYacht Times (Company)">SuperYacht Times</a> Digital Editor Emma Becque sat down with owner and businessman Frédéric Jousset to learn more about the inspiring <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a>'s inception and riveting itinerary.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297395/image/large-ec63fb957d90f4d7630205e6d175d9da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297395">Please tell me a little about why you became interested in creating&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a>…You have to go back to my childhood. I felt privileged in my education and exposure to the arts in Paris. My mum was a chief curator, and my father worked at the École Normale de Musique. Art and culture are part of my childhood; I see a big divide between art and social structure when I think objectively. If you look at those who frequent museums, the opera, and other artistic sectors, it is clear there is a disparity between those who have privilege and those who do not. It is not a question of money. Most of the museums are free. As I see it, art is a bit like religion. Unless it has been handed down to you, it can easily pass you by. For example, it is improbable a person would find a sudden kinship with the arts later in life if they had not been exposed as an adolescent. So, I wanted to disrupt this notion, bring art to everyone and change this system with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a>, an immersive way to view and experience art and culture.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293363/image/large-722c1744b5d1cc7a763bc5e9e8d861da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293363">Why did you want to launch this project at this particular time? &nbsp;I came to this realisation when I reached the age of 50. During this time, I climbed Mount Everest and reached the summit. With this accomplishment, I decided to work in philanthropy with a particular focus on the arts and culture sector. Rather than be a passive investor or sponsor, I wanted to stimulate interest in everyone, regardless of the background or education a person holds or the remoteness of their location. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293358/image/large-4c385daa104a01ecf56c0a71c738d4e2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293358">Is there a philanthropic offering for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a>?There are two parts to this: the art and the catamaran. I thought, OK, if I set up a contemporary art museum, it would only attract the typical audience and would not attract my targeted audience. I threw myself into extensive research and read many surveys, which resulted in me finding out that people only go to museums if they are nearby or travelling. Another revelation was learning how most visitors find public art spaces uninspiring; the ambience is quiet and stuffy, and it’s hard to digest information unless you are already educated in that particular art genre. It is this stationary setting that I wanted to disrupt, with my goal being to bring art to everyone and make it an exciting revelation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293357/image/large-17276d15c26599176b837b293cf687b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293357">The second aspect of this project was the development of a yacht. This idea came about when I sailed last year with a renowned Dutch sailor. This specific trip made me think, isn't there a way to combine my two passions for a greater good? With 60 percent of the world's population living near the shore, why not create an accessible sailing yacht to bring art to everyone? I realised nobody has ever thought to use the sea to convey art and culture. Building a $40 million museum would be anonymous, but I could generate traction if I built a superyacht. It was my core belief that this platform would be naturally in the spotlight of many different organisations. We got support from the European Union and a grant since this project is nomadic and will impact several countries. It is exciting to reach untapped audiences, including many generations and cultures, during such a time of technological advancements enabling yachts to be publicly enjoyed and chartered.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293345/image/large-ef4cf7175f62b425717afc2fa218d452.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293345">As this sort of project has never been done before, how did you go about finding designers for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a>?The design is intertwined with the philanthropic offering. We started with the design of the boat. An underscore of this project was to help with biodiversity; therefore, it had to be a sailing yacht. Due to the number of people it had to hold, it subsequently had to be a catamaran - they offer significant amounts of space, and their draught means they can go pretty much anywhere. In my opinion, super luxury catamarans are the future of yachting. The big sailing catamarans offer the same light, space, and volume, making them more efficient while not sacrificing aesthetics.Regarding her design, we organised a big competition for which we received numerous applications from naval architects and designers. Axel de Beaufort was the most convincing, thanks to his timeless design combining elegant wood, solar panels, and curved glass. Once we had a designer, we found the shipyard and ended up with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a>. Initially, we were meant to work with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6292" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Admiral Yachting (Company)">Admiral Yachts</a>, but ultimately were lucky enough to collaborate with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> just before they were bought. This ensured me this would be a classical Renaissance heritage vessel to last a lifetime.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293337/image/large-d360021258b82cd7774a848aaa8d2de9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293337">Can you outline the planned itineraries for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a>, detailing the exhibitions and unique destinations you aim to showcase?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a> is a dedicated vessel where members of the public are invited to come onboard for free. Accommodating up to 40 people, visitors can expect to experience a unique interplay with art, culture and a sensory touch point with nature. For example, when stepping onboard the fantastic film ICONS by the Louvre Museum will transport those onboard through history.&nbsp;Within this same experience, visitors will be blindfolded as they step outside onto the expansive aft deck. Their lack of sight will enable them to embrace various soundscapes, including animal and native sounds, to create a truly visceral experience. The experience continues even when leaving the yacht. &nbsp;Visitors are encouraged to wear 3D virtual glasses, catapulting them into different worlds, such as historical Mediterranean terrain, ancient pyramids, the Alps, paintings, and sculptures. From 6pm onwards, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a> event showcases live performances and dances within an agora on land. This unique experience can be enjoyed across various destinations, making it unforgettable and a remarkable way to interact with art and culture.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293335/image/large-c2f019eb1c465e255af9f2b8a1e4a3dc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293335">Will there be opportunities to charter&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer&nbsp;</a>for private clients and events?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a> will begin her journey in 2024 in Malta on the 3rd of March, then in Italy for The Venice Biennale in the second week of April. She will then be in Cannes for The Cannes Film Festival in May, and finally, my team and I will be in Marseille for her big launch.One way to finance this wonderful project is through chartering. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a> can now be chartered by private companies and guests with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a>. Throughout July and August in the Mediterranean and then for winter sun in St Barths from December to January. What is interesting about <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a> is her agile versatility. Thanks to her impressive transformative walls, we can easily convert the yacht's internal spaces from an immersive museum to an impressive cinema projection of 200-square-metres high-definition cinema.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293309/image/large-533c08b4d04a1fd659d38162fe050adc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293309">What were the challenges in obtaining the rights and complying with copyright laws for the artworks and projects aboard&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a>?We didn’t have any copyright laws to contend with. It is more logistics in terms of travel than the content onboard. We partner with several museums and institutions who kindly lend objects and pieces to us for the bespoke experience on offer to the public. The most recent challenges we faced have been around the war. For example, the Israel and Arabic conflict meant we had to change our travel itinerary. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293306/image/large-636189921b4c11b816e755f542b57c11.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293306">With&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a>'s dual role, how will you balance allocating private and public spaces within the yacht?Whenever <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a> reaches a new destination, I will be there for the opening night. In terms of personal use, I will charter her for two weeks, ideally out of the twelve weeks available; with that being said, I will pay the total commercial price, given she is part of the foundation. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293303/image/large-24b0deb2b0f78b6e326163b9bf48e9f5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293303">What factors led you to select a catamaran sailing yacht for this unique art endeavour?Evidently, with the yacht being used for numerous people, there had to be two large hulls. The catamaran form enables <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a> to reach harbours while maintaining stability as a public space that will welcome hundreds of people daily. I also have to mention that I truly wanted a catamaran in the current climate. In terms of the yachting sector and when working closely with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">The Italian Sea Group</a> on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a>, I can foresee that the super luxurious catamarans are the industry's future. Look at the private jet industry, where activism is rife. Yacht designs must find new ways to maximise space without far less environmental impact - luxurious catamarans can do this. The large sailing catamarans offer the same light, accommodation and connection with the water but with little footprint compared to their motor yacht counterparts. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293301/image/large-38cf31eb4000f7fe2b2aafb32ff6fd34.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293301">The&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer&nbsp;</a>Festival in 2024Exciting opportunities to get up close and personal with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a> will feature at this year's <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11227" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Artexplorer46.6m (152'11&quot;)Perini Navi2024">ArtExplorer</a> festival, which contains an eclectic programme of exhibitions, performances, virtual reality immersions, speeches, film screenings, and concerts.&nbsp;As well as hosting exhibitions in the quayside exhibition pavilions, the ArtExplorer festival will showcase "Present", an immersive film experience on board the museum boat that aims to pay tribute to female figures in Mediterranean civilisations, which can be viewed on the aft deck.&nbsp;This year's ports of call for the museum boat include Valletta, Malta from 21-31 March; Venice, Italy from 17-23 April; and Marseille, France from 6-18 June.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293294/image/large-6f64fc1d31345d3e4c5e93488eec86c8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293294">

Interview with Frédéric Jousset

Emma Becque sits down with Frédéric Jousset, owner of the radically different, floating gallery and superyacht, ArtExplorer.  

Owner interview: Designing ArtExplorer with Frédéric Jousset

Mariacristina Rapisardi and her&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a>&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a>&nbsp;have braved the most testing waters in the world, Francesca Webster found out more.It is rare to find a sailing yacht owner that bucks the trend and chases the frigid adventures of the furthest poles. It is even rarer to see the elegant lines of a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> braving the ice and cruising amongst killer whales and polar bears, that is, however, par for the course for the owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a>, the 34.25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Huisman</a> yacht built in 1994. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297585/image/large-e4a00ff58cc9ad421505a5a664e038ca.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297585">Mariacristina Rapisardi is far from your ‘normal’ superyacht owner. Descended from a long line of mariners, the Italian lawyer has been a sailor from childhood, racing across Lake Como as a girl and owning a nine-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5255" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dufour/Locwind (Company)">Dufour</a> by the age of 10. By her late teens, Mariacristina had upscaled, owning two Sweden Yachts’ before her mid-twenties. Even from those earliest days, she was christening her sailing yachts Billy Budd.Named after a character from the eponymous Herman Melville book who was sentenced to hang from the mast for accidentally causing the death of a fellow crewman, Mariacristina was deeply inspired by the story as a teenager. “It symbolises the deep contradiction between law and justice,” she explains, “I first read the book when I was 18 and I think by then I already knew I was destined to be a lawyer. All of my yachts have been named Billy Budd, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Huisman</a> is the fourth.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297584/image/large-ec43f6a2a2498c2feab75c8cc345c134.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297584">With a great passion for the water, years were spent sailing yachts across the Mediterranean with her husband, children and often a dog by her side. A chance encounter with the infamous yacht owner, adventurer and author Skip Novak at a ski lodge in Courmayeur, however, sparked a hidden interest in the polar regions. The two sailors shared an immediate connection and it wasn’t long before they’d planned a joint charter to the Arctic onboard Novak’s Ice Class sailing yacht Pelagic. Then in 2003 they attempted the Northwest Passage, but failed due to the packed ice. By then, however, a passion for the region and the determination to sail the Passage had firmly taken root.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/278498/image/large-7b3dd43ae385e875cde8683d329dc23f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/278498">In 2004 it was time to upgrade her yacht once again and she set about the search for a vessel that could take on more intense conditions, specifically to cruise outside of the Mediterranean. The first yacht she built was the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> 72 Billy Budd, an ideal family yacht with a credible lineage and a solid construction that could take on more adventurous journeys. She ruffled feathers at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> shipyard in Ipswich by requesting a wood burner in the main saloon, putting her foot down when the team suggested it was impossible; the yacht remains the only <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> to feature a burner onboard.&nbsp;Aboard the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> Mariacristina and her family travelled both north and south, circumnavigating the world with friends and relatives. But by 2009 she had reached the comfort limit for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> and the Northwest Passage was once again knocking at her door, it was time to upgrade. In order to take on the Passage and cruise polar waters where the risk of being stuck in ice was a reality, she knew she needed an aluminium hull, and when she saw the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Saudade</a> it all fell into place.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/278497/image/large-90dd9d93858a29cff2c3ee9a27545bfb.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/278497">“She is a magnificent yacht, a true luxury superyacht first and foremost and an ideal boat for cruising with family and friends. Before we bought her, she’d enjoyed circumnavigations and years in the Mediterranean. She has a huge interior, is comfortable and most importantly, is technically very solid. Big bonuses for me are her dorades which, while aesthetically traditional, mean there is a lovely flow of air down below, she also had a good engine and generator and had been well maintained.”After buying the yacht, and customarily rechristening her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a>, Mariacristina set about a number of minor alterations to prepare the vessel for the Arctic and Antarctic. The second water tank was replaced with a fuel tank, the instruments were upgraded and vitally, all were built into individual circuits. She explains, “I had experienced a situation in Norway where one of the instruments froze up in the cold and because the entire system was interconnected, everything stopped working. We simultaneously lost our satellite, electronic charts and navigational equipment – that was a lesson you don't forget! Since then I ensure that all the electronics run independently and Skip Novak does the same with his yachts today.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297580/image/large-c656e6034c7ee26ae9d5dc470f7491ec.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297580">Aside from the installation of heaters, a heavyweight anchor and the construction of a viewing platform on the main mast to keep an eye on the ice, very little else needed to be done to the yacht. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Huisman</a>’s vessels are renowned for their excellence of construction, and the boat itself was sound. “The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Huisman</a> has a classic long bow and she cuts through the water beautifully, which is important in the polar regions where the ocean can get incredibly rough. One of the most attractive things about the yacht has always been her seaworthiness, first and foremost she is an excellent sailing yacht and while we’ve spent much time in the north, she is a wonderful world cruiser.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297581/image/large-3ce15960b8d0d5d3d3c06dd9b499adf9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297581">Mariacristina has built a reputation internationally for her love of the Arctic (an Italian journalist coining her ‘La Signora del Ghiaccio’), and her favourite place in the world is the desolate and icebound Devon Island in Northern Canada. Her family, however, are more excited about the warmer climes of the Mediterranean and so <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a> will spend the summer months cruising the coasts of Italy and Greece.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297578/image/large-b62b2ee2bee1700bb4966e9bf9222018.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297578">&nbsp;“I have 10 grandchildren and we manage to host them all aboard the yacht in the summer, it is a wonderful experience. We put four children in each of the guest staterooms and my husband and I are in the master suite to the stern. We have had so many wonderful times cruising together, exploring the Greek islands and having convivial evenings together onboard. All of the children have been organising the holidays for the upcoming summer and love to be onboard with their families.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297577/image/large-d7986079f4ccda235b672d3cf3003d54.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297577">Despite the evident love for the yacht, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a> is now on the market, and Mariacristina and her husband are looking to find something smaller and more manageable to sail together alone. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a> is a great family boat and has been a perfect yacht to take on all of our adventures, but it is time for us to downsize to something that we can cruise without crew,” she explains. “I want to take the helm and set off at will, and of course, I want to spend more time exploring the Arctic, for me it is the best place in the world!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297582/image/large-7ef66704b140b844f0cf731782790fb5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297582">When it comes to what's next, she explains, “I never go without a boat, so when <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2261" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Billy Budd II34.25m (112'4&quot;)Royal Huisman1994">Billy Budd</a> looks to be selling, we will find the next one,” and from my brief conversation with her it was clear that Mariacristina without a boat would be like a fish without water! The new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> 745 looks like a hot contender, so if you are cruising in the coming years and see an <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> named Billy Budd passing by, you’ll know you have just passed the famous Lady of the Ice!This article is featured in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" target="_blank">SuperYacht Times</a>&nbsp;newspaper. <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe now</a> to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

The Lady of the Ice: Mariacristina Rapisardi on her sailing yacht Billy Budd II

Mariacristina Rapisardi and her Royal Huisman Billy Budd have braved the most testing waters in the world, Francesca Webster found out more.

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“When I first chartered <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> (ex Happy Day) with our family two years ago, I immediately appreciated her timeless elegance,” explained <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II’s</a> owner. The 31.62-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> motor yacht boasts the classic <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> silhouette, with a modern interior design, which oozes opulence and sophistication.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280521/image/large-1e67af0f6611c7597719cf057280136d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280521"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> was delivered in 1969 from Italy and features exterior design and naval architecture from her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>. With 180 GT of interior volume, space onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a>&nbsp; has been optimised to allow guests to live in ultimate luxury.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280535/image/large-ce5ae9eb50d5fcccc15067e76b5af94a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280535">“I wanted a boat that would bring me back to the way of travelling of the past, yet with a contemporary feel. One quality that drew me to this particular <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> was the finish of her interiors, the warm oak wood, rather than the very classical mahogany,” her owner added. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> underwent an extensive refit in 2023 under the direction of interior designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anouska Hempel (Company)">Anouska Hempel</a>, with inspiration coming from her own 27.13-metre gulet Beluga One.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280538/image/large-bc1992e76b9442fb532eceeaa8604fa9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280538">“I have already collaborated with her on another project and absolutely love every aspect of her style. I wanted to incorporate the striking black details, the vintage trunks and leather baskets, her signature lampshades and black screens, and many of the exotic details that transport the viewer to far away places.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280537/image/large-20cb682fd672cad80ad561691434f603.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280537"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> exudes an air of elegance reminiscent of classic canoe-stern yachts, while offering all of the amenities of the latest superyacht. Her interior design has been carefully crafted with a ‘Beluga-esque’ style, while providing her with her own individual style that emulates refinement and grandeur.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291986/image/large-897408ac4a6aa3ec137b2e85516b18ee.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291986">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> is wonderfully unique, her design is where East meets West and I always enjoy playing with this cross over or cultures, history and design,” explained designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anouska Hempel (Company)">Anouska Hempel</a>. “ You have the traditional classical elements of truly beautiful Italian style with the folding in of discipline of an Asian influence. The symbiosis of both and the balance between the two make <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> truly magical.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280546/image/large-7a97e55932045e531e4ecb4defd0d7db.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280546"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> features a unique interior design that is coherent across each deck to portray tranquillity and relaxation. “The bird motif is a recurring theme throughout the design of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> and is best described as a crane that tries to free itself from the canvas by tearing it with its beak. I found it extremely poetic and inspiring for a family that wishes to travel with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> all around the world,” commented her owner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280536/image/large-5086db271d1a776da49d1d2cc298fcd4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280536">“The contrast of textures, the lighting, the balance of light and dark, it is all a dance, and it is so important that the balance is considered and correct. Materials, textures, light and dark are of the utmost importance,” remarked <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anouska Hempel (Company)">Anouska Hempel</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280566/image/large-5d74ee44ed3421e3b4eb155c2a149129.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280566"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280564/image/large-f6f1391c0e6c8a38dcafcab9ec757415.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280564">With a four stateroom configuration, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> can accommodate up to 10 guests, with each stateroom appointed in a similar style. Her master stateroom is located on the upper deck and benefits from direct access to the aft exterior lounge. A second master suite is situated forward on the lower deck, and she also features a VIP double and twin stateroom to aft. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280533/image/large-a1967e2b66ffe6d8f8594aa9919aaa43.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280533"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280532/image/large-da7cd314a7acce5da72adbc0d04efb36.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280532"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280528/image/large-651ac78f7d0fa7dfca861d9bb035431f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280528">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> features a wonderfully eclectic mix of drill, cane, Japanese screens, tassels, sudare blinds, herringbone tape, Louis Vuitton trunks, library lights and coolie shades,” commented Anouska Hempel. “Every material and texture is indicative of the crossover of the Italian classical style into simplicity and elegance – which is styled within an inch of its life!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280571/image/large-6cb33ab5ed11b0b249a5d56f0a18020d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280571"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> offers a range of exterior spaces which allow guests to bask in the sun and enjoy the yacht’s surroundings. “She has four different decks, with each one characterised by a different use,” explained her owner. “We use the upper sun deck for yoga in the morning, sunbathing with the best view during the day and it becomes an outdoor cinema for the kids at night.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280569/image/large-db35f6d057bc7a4fc5b1ee4aa0d2108c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280569"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280567/image/large-2bb26cc01dd5450394ef8af867855617.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280567">The forward deck of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> is perfect for a sunset aperitivo, while her circular lounge area on the aft deck is better suited to larger alfresco gatherings. “I wanted to create a large indoor dining area, as our family loves to cruise in the winter months,” elucidated her owner. “This allows us to live on the boat just as much indoors as outdoors, thus making <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> a floating house for our family all year round!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/292040/image/large-9a3dc34f2e662a4d3fcf805f2179c510.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/292040">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Volvo Penta (Company)">Volvo Penta</a> engines which propel her to a top speed of 13 knots and a cruising speed of 11.5 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280568/image/large-04c4c8c0f21ae02d6a4b069d710240c9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280568">“I have worked with the owners on their wonderful private residence in Lugano, they are wonderful clients and friends and we have been working together for years. The intention was to pull inspiration from my boat the Beluga and transform this beautiful <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>, with her lovely hull into a glorious statement gliding through the ocean. the result is a daring, different and delightful yacht, which is timeless and tantalising,” concluded <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anouska Hempel (Company)">Anouska Hempel</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291987/image/large-cb1bcba39d8d594adcfdc13cf0d8e882.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291987" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sounion II31.62m (103'9&quot;)Benetti SpA1969">Sounion II</a> is currently available for charter with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hill Robinson (Company)">Hill Robinson</a>. This article is featured in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-46" target="_blank">46th edition</a>&nbsp;of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe now</a>&nbsp;to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

Meet the owner: Historic Benetti yacht Sounion II

SuperYacht Times sat down with the owner and designer of  Sounion II yacht.

From refit to refinement: Onboard the 32m Benetti yacht Sounion II

First announced in 2022, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco yacht stands as a testament to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef Yachts</a>' commitment to eco-conscious yachting, without compromising on luxury. The 24.4-metre catamaran boasts a sleek and contemporary design, powered by renewable energy sources and is equipped with the latest in sustainable technology, including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a>’s signature solar skin. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280754/image/large-99266e5cfc391fa221aeab0fefcad355.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280754"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> is the newest <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco yacht to join the growing fleet. Launched as the third hull in the series, she joins her sisterships <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10963" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marie-Joseph23.87m (78'4&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2022">Marie-Joseph</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12967" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zeahorse23.87m (78'4&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Zeahorse</a> as a shining example of luxury and sustainability, co-existing in perfect harmony. SuperYacht Times joined her owner, designers, and sales representatives onboard for her launch event last month, surrounded by the owner’s friends and family.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284280/image/large-3695a9f6e9482e8fa801cfa26fd63eb4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284280">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> is a home away from home,” described her owner. “She offers sustainable luxury while sailing in silence, and that’s what really attracted me to the model.” As an avid sailor from his mid-30s, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a>’s owner wanted more space than his 13-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6072" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lagoon Yachts (Company)">Lagoon</a> 45 yacht. “We love sailing and as a family we spent more than a year living on the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6072" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lagoon Yachts (Company)">Lagoon</a> boat with our dog, crossing the Atlantic and exploring the Caribbean.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284272/image/large-4bd983b2a0a10969590b7c4a4386348a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284272">“On our previous yacht we discovered that on a sunny day we hardly had to use the motor or the generator, which we enjoyed as we were able to sail in silence. We soon needed a bigger space to accommodate everyone onboard and that’s when we fell in love with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a>’s concept of achieving sustainable luxury with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco.”<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a>’s owner worked with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Consult (Company)">Yacht Consult</a> in the purchase of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco yacht. The company was able to use their comprehensive expertise as not only sellers, but as experienced sailors to monitor the transfer every step of the way.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284260/image/large-cc4a42f91888f5d7d12fd9f973663d28.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284260">“We first met with the owner in Belgium during our presentation of the Sunreef 60 sailing yacht Valentine,” expressed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Consult (Company)">Yacht Consult</a> Sales Manager, Wouter Vanderelst. “About a month later the deal was made for the new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco and the final contract was signed two months later during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4556" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival (Company)">Cannes Yachting Festival</a>.”“The idea that the yacht sails in true silence and is eco-friendly was a key factor for the owner in choosing a new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco model,” added Wouter. Described by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef Yachts</a> as an eco-responsible luxury craft, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco yacht combines electric propulsion with reliable sailing performance and expansive living spaces.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284271/image/large-9df79b0cca96be54f8e050c80ebc1e5d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284271">The fully customisable catamaran offers infinite décor possibilities and each model has been designed to suit the needs of its owner. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> features interior design from Belgium-based design house <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="BALO Design (Company)">BALO Design</a>, which have created a tranquil and coastal feeling onboard.&nbsp; <iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/862329796?share=copy" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe> “In the past, we had already worked with superyacht owners to help give their boats a personal touch onboard. We were introduced to the owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Consult (Company)">Yacht Consult</a> to create a unique interior for this new yacht,” explained Bart Lodewijckx, founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7281" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="BALO Design (Company)">BALO Design</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284259/image/large-b146568fbd6b4120d83fdf32f600530d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284259">“After the technical floor plans and design of the vessel were finalised, we visited the shipyard to choose all the materials and colours for the fixed and structural elements. These decisions are an important guideline for our design team before they can create the overall mood of the yacht, regarding furniture and lighting.”The interior of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> has been designed as a haven of comfort, offering a luxury beach house on the water vibe. Her interior effortlessly blends nautical elegance with coastal chic to create clean lines and a minimalistic decor style. The use of a neutral colour palette also establishes a timeless and refined ambiance, eschewing any sense of ostentation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284261/image/large-f625b9167954959335ab82d539db081a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284261">“On numerous international yachts, you will find shiny materials, dark wood, and exaggerated fabrics. A beach house feeling on the contrary has the aim to get an instant relaxed feeling once you arrive,” described Bart Lodewijckx.“A palette of neutral tones was the base to design this vibe, with a balanced mix of rich fabrics and the right selection of high-end furniture pieces, to help finetune this idea. The light colours also make the interior look spacious and relaxed to live in.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284254/image/large-7750a2b8d8b904d87a8403f336808534.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284254">“We enjoy the idea of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> being a boat that highlights sustainable luxury,” explained her owner. “Although she is a luxury yacht, she uses sustainable techniques to create a more eco-friendly experience onboard.”“The high-end international brands we work with, are consistently improving their purchase and production processes. This helps to reduce their environmental footprint and increase their sustainability, resulting in furniture that will last longer, is easier to maintain and remains aesthetically pleasing,” added Bart Lodewijckx.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284251/image/large-36bdc9b77632b8060952d398016fe110.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284251"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> has been designed to host family and friends, which is why the main deck saloon has an abundance of lounging and dining space. Guests can relax on her sumptuous sofa, all while taking in the breathtaking views from her expansive windows. The use of fine woods, elegant furnishings, and soft lighting enhances the overall ambiance of the space.&nbsp;"<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> is truly the most beautiful <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 I've seen, with a high level of attention to design features and details,” added Manu Deceuninck, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5864" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Consult (Company)">Yacht Consult</a>. “You can see that the owner was involved in every decision, as even the napkins are beautiful!”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284252/image/large-de6d26f580f39b08156e042118a44afd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284252">As well as enjoying a beautifully curated interior, guests onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> are able to embrace oceanic surroundings, thanks to versatile and engaging outdoor areas. The highlight is her flybridge, which provides a panoramic vantage point for guests to take in the stunning vistas. This elevated space offers additional seating, sun loungers, and even a wet bar, making it the perfect place for sunbathing and enjoying refreshments.“When you look at the layout and the furniture used on the flybridge, you can see that it is not the standard layout, but a cosy and lounge feeling has been achieved, so for sure not a 'one-in-a-row' feeling,” added Manu Deceuninck. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284274/image/large-a953520787a12d372e2cb73b5beb6feb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284274">The foredeck of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> has been meticulously designed to offer a unique blend of relaxation and functionality. The primary feature of the space is her plush padded sunpads and forward-facing seating area, which enables guests to top up their tans. The raised tables allow guests to enjoy meals from a picturesque setting, all while remaining immersed in the soothing atmosphere around them.Despite all of this, the main feature of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> is her ultramodern solar power system covering a total area of 164 square-metres. The panels have been integrated with various composite structures of the yacht including the mast, boom, superstructure and hull sides. “I chose a distinctive grey metallic colour for her hull because not only does it reflect the water and the sun, but it better integrates her solar panel design,” explained her owner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284280/image/large-3695a9f6e9482e8fa801cfa26fd63eb4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284280">While under sail, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco recovers energy from the passive motion of the two propellers, thanks to an advanced hydro generation system. The energy obtained is used to power both the electric propulsion and house appliances.The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> 80 Eco yacht is fitted with a state of the art, ultralight battery bank that is around 30 percent lighter than the average batteries used in the nautical industry. With a density of less than 5.2kg/ kWh, they have been developed with weight efficiency and performance in mind. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280753/image/large-bd11d66140d2670d44e59af4a0d2c8b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280753">“For us, luxury flows down into the smallest details. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13091" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Apollo 9924.4m (80'1&quot;)Sunreef Yachts2023">Apollo 99</a> is spacious, luxurious and bright and offers excellent service from her crew. She offers a five-star service to everyone who steps onboard, but most of all, she is ready to seek out a lot of beautiful sunsets and adventures,” concluded Bart Lodewijckx.

Onboard the 24m Sunreef 80 Eco yacht Apollo 99

SYT takes a closer look onboard the 24m Sunreef 80 Eco yacht Apollo 99, following her launch event in August.

Apollo 99: A closer look at the 24m Sunreef 80 Eco yacht with her owner and designers

The 40.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuic Nautika D.O.O (Company)">Nuic Nautika</a> motor sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> has been launched. The gulet yacht began construction in 2022 in Croatia and has been designed for the avid sailor Spiro Rakuljic, who we interviewed for the SuperYacht Times newspaper. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuic Nautika D.O.O (Company)">Nuic Nautika</a> and boasts a luxurious contemporary interior design. She offers a six stateroom configuration for up to 12 guests, consisting of a full-beam master suite located forward on her lower deck. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284394/image/large-41b4ef2014c56ff0f0fbe9a63c377700.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284394">Her remaining guest staterooms include a VIP suite starboard, two double staterooms and two convertible twins. She also has accommodation on the lower deck for a crew of eight. Key amenities onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> include a sea water pool on the main deck aft, a bar, Jacuzzi and open-air cinema lounge on the sun deck. She can also carry a selection of water toys and accessories including two Seabobs, two e-foils, a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4162" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Manta Maritime (Company)">Manta</a> Jet Surf and a water slide.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284413/image/large-7de842d47500fcd27e05c7e2f591ed36.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284413"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284420/image/large-466e272757e7c646f73c501a89d53121.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284420">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</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, which provide her with a cruising speed of nine knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284392/image/large-76e1e4c87a27c7fa8dd7c7e25438bb75.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284392">Spiro Rakuljic’s family has been involved in the maritime industry for decades, building a fleet of mini ‘cruise vessel’ motor yachts in the Adriatic. He is now building his first private yacht, the 40.3-metre motor sailer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a>, so we sat down with Spiro to find out more about this new venture and to discover why the family is moving into the private charter business.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284398/image/large-f3bbf7d52b850f83821f0d0911cefbce.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284398"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284402/image/large-9ad54a21a7089478b18dcafd8d75ed4d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284402">How has nautical tourism grown over the years and when did you first get involved?&nbsp; Tourism began to grow in the Adriatic from around the mid-70s and the traditional wooden boats that were once used to export fruit were used to transport travellers to the islands. It was around this time that our family brough one of the largest wooden ships on the Adriatic, named it <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a>, after the grandmother, and began to reconstruct it.By 2020, our family had the largest fleet of mini cruise ships on the Adriatic. As a result of the coronavirus, we decided to focus on the market of smaller luxury yachts with six cabins for up to 12 guests, as there was a real lack of them on the Adriatic. It also forces us to extend the build time of the new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> to the 2023 season. We’re really looking forward to finally showing her to the world.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284403/image/large-ce85b1ed046fe764be4afb810d6c211e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284403"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284401/image/large-95276ebd668e171ed14eb00b0d8fbed4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284401">Can you tell me about the design of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a>, why you chose to build a motorsailer, who are the designers behind the project?We wanted to make a green transition with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> and a motorsailer seemed the right choice. The morning burin and afternoon mistrals – warm winds that blow during summer months in Croatia – also make for fantastic sailing. And with her sails unfurled <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> will take full advantage!The project is a collaboration between our family, Croatian naval architect Promardesign, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuic Nautika D.O.O (Company)">Nuić Nautika</a>, who were responsible for her construction. We were involved at every stage as we have extensive knowledge in shipbuilding, sailing, and the requirements to enhance the passenger experience and facilitate the vessel's management for the crew.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284414/image/large-259dd5ceec0c8feea88032387f85dbd4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284414"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284405/image/large-a8d2d07434722846381bd7fc14f548e8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284405">What is your goal with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a>, how do you see her fitting in with the broader fleet?We’re going to revolutionise the Croatian charter market with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> and propel our company to new heights of shipbuilding excellence. At 40-metres in length <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> is the ideal size and she features many distinctive features. She offers a perfect balance of comfort and convenience for guests and crew alike, and has been designed to navigate even the smallest and most secluded ports and bays that larger vessels cannot access, giving our clients an unparalleled and authentic experience.&nbsp;We are confident that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> will redefine the standard for luxury charters in the region and leave an indelible mark on our clients' memories.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284411/image/large-b916cfdc807e380e78fa81a3c8a411f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284411"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284409/image/large-9cc09f6bb4ff196a3cd79f1ffc8ca69e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284409">Can you share some of the yacht’s top features?The allure and need of being near the sea has never been stronger for charter clients, and Anetta has distinguished herself as the only luxury motorsailer in Croatia to introduce this innovative concept of living close to the sea. She has a beach club with a seawater swimming pool on the stern area that connects to the swim platform, creating extra open-air leisure space for charter guests to enjoy.&nbsp;She also has a large sundeck with a hot tub, open-air cinema and lounges. Notwithstanding her extensive list of water toys which includes a custom-made water slide.Numerous modern design features are integrated throughout her interior as well; her cabins exemplify the modern concept of open space, with bathrooms separated from the sleeping area by a glass wall that can be instantly blurred at the push of a button. Each cabin is also equipped with a smart room system, allowing the guests to customise the music, air conditioning and lighting. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284397/image/large-c3e83578da41f12b99c5850b19822123.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284397">As an owner/captain, you must have an extensive knowledge of cruising in Croatia, what do you think makes the region so special for sailing and cruising?The Croatian Adriatic Coast is unique, boasting a well-developed shoreline and a plethora of islands. Charterers can easily anchor in different bays and dock that are within just a few nautical miles of each other. There are many bays and harbours on both the south and north side of the island to explore. It’s a place of great diversity.Croatia has also undergone significant developments over the past decade. Many options now complement luxury yacht charter vacations, such as Michelin-star restaurants, luxurious villas/resorts, beach clubs – all conveniently situated on either the shore or nearby islands.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284421/image/large-65aaf691b1c96a5eca48bd3660843214.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284421">How does <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> fit within the Croatian history of yacht construction?Croatian shipbuilding is characterised by its competitiveness in terms of quality compared to Western European shipyards and pricing compared to East European shipyards. We embody this construction philosophy of building robust vessels with a high-quality finish that are easy to maintain –&nbsp;and Anetta is our flagship.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> showcases that Croatian shipbuilding can produce high-quality and luxurious products at a competitive price. Thanks to Croatia’s entry into the EU and Schengen, the Adriatic Sea is becoming increasingly attractive to foreign investors, which has prompted us to take over a small failed shipyard near Split. Together with our business partners, we are investing in the construction of a new production facility and travel lift for building and refitting vessels similar or larger than <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284422/image/large-ecbd8c8b3d872a4e1f6facc6d8d5106d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284422">What are your plans with the yacht once she is launched?We anticipate delivering <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> in mid-May, enabling us to complete the interior furnishing and carry out the necessary test drives ahead of our first charter in July. We are confident that the season will be a success thanks to our partner and charter central agency <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht IN (Company)">YACHT IN</a>. We look forward to introducing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anetta40.2m (131'11&quot;)Nuic Nautika D.O.O2023">Anetta</a> to the charter market and will do our best in providing our guests with a memorable experience through our attention to detail and exceptional service.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/284395/image/large-8f3f8a719b1d5c05210829515f4ded49.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/284395">

Owner interiview sailing yacht Anetta launched

The 40m Nuic Nautika motor sailing yacht Anetta has been launched. SYT spoke to her owner Spiro ahead of her launch to find out more.

Owner Spiro Rakuljic on the newly launched 40m sailing yacht Anetta

Francesca Webster sat down with Jim Glidewell, serial yacht owner and lover of Alaska, to find out more about his life with yachts.I joined Jim Glidewell aboard his 58-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/106" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Trinity Yachts, LLC (Company)">Trinity</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unbridled58.22m (191'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2009">Unbridled</a> at Rybovich Marina during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/164" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palm Beach International Boat Show - 2023">Palm Beach International Boat Show</a> this March. It was the second time I had the pleasure of meeting Jim, having first interviewed him under the same circumstances a year before, at that time to discuss his experience of yacht brokerage firm <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop and Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>, with whom he’d recently acquired the yacht. During this meeting however, it was Jim himself that was the topic of discussion.&nbsp;A highly successful businessman with a Dentistry empire and over 5,000 employees, Jim is a force to reckon with. Over the decades his love of yachting has led to the acquisition of more than 12 yachts, and he currently owns two other superyachts in addition to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/106" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Trinity Yachts, LLC (Company)">Trinity</a>, the 39.62-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/217" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Westport Yachts (Company)">Westport</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serengeti39.62m (129'12&quot;)Westport Yachts2002">Serengeti</a> and the 39-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/610" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northcoast Yachts (Company)">NorthCoast</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a>, both of which he retains between the USA’s West Coast and in the Bahamas. The larger yachts are then accompanied by a smattering of smaller boats, including a 63 foot superfast Baia Azzura called Parvina&nbsp;after his wife, and a number of fishing boats.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/283465/image/large-51c52abfc6c51babecd058aa24be7dbc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/283465">&nbsp;Jim’s love of being onboard began during the Vietnam War when, at the age of 18, ran a 40-footer delivering marines from warships to shore. “That’s where the passion for it really started. It was great fun, yes we got shot at a few times but only because I hadn’t paid my bar bill! I was born in Las Vegas – you can't get much more landlocked than that – so Vietnam was a real experience and working a boat really ignited my passion.” Returning from Vietnam to school in California, Jim moved to a house on the water with a boat dock and gradually his boats grew in size. From a 30 to a 40 foot, he in 1995 eventually graduated to the 28.6-metre Voyager from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, a contemporary of &nbsp;John Staluppi’s famous high speed <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/2547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Octopussy 43.58m (142'12&quot;)Heesen Yachts1988">Octopussy</a>.&nbsp;After Voyager, Jim unscaled to the 36.57-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/488" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Broward Marine (Company)">Broward Marine</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1219" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sovereign Lady36.57m (119'12&quot;)Broward Marine1991">Sovereign</a> (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1219" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sovereign Lady36.57m (119'12&quot;)Broward Marine1991">Sovereign Lady</a>). He then bought the 37.19-metre custom <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1093" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flagship (Company)">Flagship</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1793" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serenity37.19m (122'0&quot;)Flagship1993">Bon Bon</a> (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1793" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serenity37.19m (122'0&quot;)Flagship1993">Serenity</a>) at auction. He kept <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1793" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serenity37.19m (122'0&quot;)Flagship1993">Bon Bon</a> up until a few years ago, only replacing her with his current <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/217" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Westport Yachts (Company)">Westport</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1793" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serenity37.19m (122'0&quot;)Flagship1993">Serengeti</a> in 2013. Serengeti was built for the entertainer, Johnny Carson. Since then, Jim has owned the 49-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/106" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Trinity Yachts, LLC (Company)">Trinity</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zoom Zoom Zoom49.07m (160'12&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2005">Zoom Zoom Zoom</a>, which he sold in 2021, and the 47-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/570" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Admiral (Company)">Admiral</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/490" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Star Diamond46.93m (153'12&quot;)Admiral Marine Works1998">Star Diamond</a>, previously named <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/490" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Star Diamond46.93m (153'12&quot;)Admiral Marine Works1998">Ohana</a>, then <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/490" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Star Diamond46.93m (153'12&quot;)Admiral Marine Works1998">Rhino</a> and also sold in 2021.&nbsp;One thing that is conspicuous among the extraordinary list of yachts that Jim has owned over the years is that, bar the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>, they are American built, essentially representing a who's-who of American yacht builders. “That is an intentional decision because if you cruise in Alaska with a foreign flag they require that you take a pilot onboard for $3,000 per day, even if the yacht is American flagged now and used to fly a different flag.”For Jim, cruising in Alaska is the pinnacle of his time spent aboard and it’s one of the main places he charters <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serengeti39.62m (129'12&quot;)Westport Yachts2002">Serengeti</a>. “Straight from the airport in Juneau there's the glacier, salmon, bears, and that’s before I’ve even put people on the boat!” Members of the crew use drones to capture the charter weeks and Jim is clearly an enthusiast, also fitting <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unbridled58.22m (191'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2009">Unbridled</a> with drones that take off from the water. “The thing about having a drone onboard is that you’re creating immediate memories that my family or charter guests can take home with them. All of the charter guests are given a video at the end of the week and they love that, it's a nice touch, especially because we really want people to remember the time onboard and come back the next year.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/31931/image/large-27280f6c6c1dfe5d20bdf032a3756327.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/31931">When in Alaska himself, Jim and his family like to explore the islands and climb icebergs. “The kids take the pickaxes and climb the bergs with ice buckets and fill them up for our evening cocktails. My perfect week onboard with the family would be up there, hiking among the creeks, setting traps for Dungeness crabs and fishing for salmon, halibut and shrimp. We have a barbecue and fish smoker onboard and I've recently bought an enclosed ACI 32’ tender that is better for that region because you keep warm and dry.”Not only are Jim’s yachts American, they also tend to sit around the 40 metre mark, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unbridled58.22m (191'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2009">Unbridled</a> being the outlier at nearly 60-metres. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unbridled58.22m (191'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2009">Unbridled</a> is a brilliant boat, not only is she super spacious on the inside, but she also has this massive 36-foot beam and big decks so I can have big parties out here with all of our team. Actually before we found this boat I went to my broker Kevin Merrigan and said ‘look I want a 36 foot beam and I don't care how long the boat is’.”While <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/118" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unbridled58.22m (191'0&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2009">Unbridled</a> spends most of her time down in Florida and the Bahamas, she is also chartered up the East Coast to Nantucket and Newport, Rhode Island. Fitted with the full suite of diving gear, the yacht was originally built as a dive vessel and you can see that clearly from her deck configuration. The main deck aft is a tender deck, with a large open plan layout that lends itself to diving preparation, while the upper decks are used for entertainment with dining and lounge arrangements. Having injured his ears piloting his twin engine Aerostar plane a few years ago, Jim is no longer a diver himself, but the yacht is still fitted with oxygen and nitrox makers for family and charter guests to use.&nbsp;While Jim buys the yachts partially for charter, he also uses all them extensively himself with his family, as well as to share them with the many senior managers at his company Glidewell Dental.&nbsp;“In January 2021 we took <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zoom Zoom Zoom49.07m (160'12&quot;)Trinity Yachts, LLC2005">Zoom Zoom Zoom</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a> down to the Bahamas and chartered the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta Marine</a> superyacht Continental Drifter III (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fore Aces37.8m (124'0&quot;)Delta Marine2003">Four Aces</a>) for a week with our managers. It is a great thing to be able to offer the team and they really love being onboard the boat. Having 30 management people at one exotic location was something they will not forget. We actually keep <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a> in California and every other Friday we invite 120 Dentists onboard for a harbor cruise as part of the educational seminars that the team runs at the company’s headquarters in Newport Beach.” &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/193873/image/large-1c3bbae10efdfa1b7ee8f2ad600aa471.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/193873">As well as hosting dentists onboard every month, Jim uses <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a> weekly to enjoy drinks or dinner onboard with friends and family. Since buying <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a>, then <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Lady Kath</a>, in 2019, the yacht has undergone a major interior overhaul and is now decked out like an Imperial Japanese palace.&nbsp;Partly for fun and partly to make her a more interesting offering on the charter market, Jim’s reimagining of the yacht came in tandem with her name change. Like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shogun39.0m (127'11&quot;)Northcoast Yachts2002">Shogun</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serengeti39.62m (129'12&quot;)Westport Yachts2002">Serengeti</a>’s interiors are themed inline with her name and her saloon and staterooms are decked out in animal print with dark wooden furnishings.&nbsp;Jim has a big family, with three young sons and two daughters and when it comes to the yachts, the children all enjoy being on the water and spending time with friends onboard, whether it is fishing in Alaska or diving in the Bahamas. During the show Jim visited a number of boats with Kevin, looking for a larger replacement for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serengeti39.62m (129'12&quot;)Westport Yachts2002">Serengeti</a> to charter on the West Coast, which he will no doubt find in the coming months. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/283464/image/large-06c4b4d1848b68c78e7781912f2f49bb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/283464">“One thing that amazed me walking through the show is the size of boats we are seeing nowadays. <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> is sitting behind us at Rybovich, At 377’, &nbsp;it shocks me that people build yachts that size because where do they berth them? I tend to buy used boats that have lost about 60 percent of their value and at this point I &nbsp;wouldn’t look into building one because at the age of 77, I don’t have the patience to wait for four years, &nbsp;I like to perform refits, and customize them to my Wife’s desires!.”While Jim may never build a superyacht, there is no doubt that he’ll take over the ownership of many others, and I look forward to joining him again next year to find out more about his yachting adventures.&nbsp;This article is featured in the 45th edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/report/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Subscribe now</a>&nbsp;to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

yacht life with Jim Glidewell

Francesca Webster sat down with Jim Glidewell, serial yacht owner and lover of Alaska, to find out more about his life with yachts.

Life onboard the 58m Trinity superyacht Unbridled with owner Jim Glidewell

The 43.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/511" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tecnomar (Company)">Tecnomar</a> catamaran, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a>, captivated audiences at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/182" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2023">2023 Monaco Yacht Show</a> with her radical design, characterised by an asymmetric layout and a bold exterior. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a> is complemented by 600 square-metres of curved glass windows elegantly wrapped around her superstructure. &nbsp;Delivered in December 2023, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a> was conceived as a lifestyle superyacht for Tasos Papanastasiou, designed specifically for cruising the Mediterranean. She signifies an upgrade from Mr. Papanastasiou’s previous mono-hull vessel. Behind the scenes, Mr. Papanastasiou’s representative, Karolos Konstantinidis, oversaw the superyacht's development. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/286861/image/large-1f73f883058d33f1127c472a4f2c3000.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/286861"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a> exhibits naval architecture by the UK-based <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>, with her striking exterior courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/511" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tecnomar (Company)">Tecnomar</a>. The interior design, marked by bold geometry, is the result of a collaborative effort by Mattia Piro and Gian Marco Campanino from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">The Italian Sea Group</a>. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> engaged with her owner’s representative Konstantinidis in an in-depth discussion about <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a>, focusing on the owner’s vision and the innovative design choices incorporated. Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/58788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Onboard the radical new 44m Tecnomar superyacht This Is It with her designers (2023-10-09 14:30:00 +0200)">Onboard the radical new 44m Tecnomar superyacht This Is It with her designers</a>Could you elaborate on the decision-making process that led to the selection of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/511" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tecnomar (Company)">Tecnomar</a> brand for the construction of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This is It</a>? The choice to go with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/511" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tecnomar (Company)">Tecnomar</a> was significantly influenced by Mr. Papanastasiou's existing relationship with Founder and CEO of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">Italian Sea Group</a> Giovanni Costantino. Mr. Papanastasiou had complete faith in Costantino and his team's ability to not only meet but exceed his expectations, crafting something the yachting world had not seen before. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">The Italian Sea Group</a>'s track record is well-established, particularly highlighted by their collaborations with high-profile brands like Lamborghini and their portfolio of unique yacht creations. Their consistent demonstration of innovative and exceptional design capabilities made them the clear choice for constructing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a>.After several months spent reviewing various designs alongside interior designer Gian Marco Campanino, the catamaran concept was finally presented to Mr. Papanastasiou. The moment he saw it, he immediately exclaimed, “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a>, this is what I want to build!” and promptly signed the contract. This spontaneous declaration not only reflected his instant decision but also inspired the yacht’s name.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297396/image/large-9d01886e10d65effb1cbc3e37f31c2f1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297396">Can you provide insights into the factors that influenced your decision to opt for a multi-hull design over a mono-hull motor yacht or a sailing yacht?The decision to opt for a multi-hull design was influenced by several factors. Mr. Papanastasiou, having previously owned mono-hulls, recognised the growing appeal of catamarans in the market, primarily for their enhanced safety and stability over mono-hulls. With his intent to primarily cruise in the Greek seas, known for challenging winds and waves, a multi-hull design was seen as ideal for navigating these conditions. Additionally, space was a crucial consideration. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a> features a 750 GT and offers ample space, ensuring exceptional comfort and luxury for guests. Informed by his past experiences, Tasos Papanastasiou's vision was to create a yacht where guests could comfortably spend their entire day immersed in luxury without any inclination to leave.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281419/image/large-b79191de91a46795639266703cc1e2e3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281419">What were your primary day-to-day responsibilities once the construction of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This is It</a>&nbsp;was underway?As the owner's representative and manager of his family office, my primary responsibility during the construction of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a> was to oversee the project. We had a dedicated team on site in Italy, including four surveyors, the captain, and the chief engineer, to monitor the day-to-day progress. Our goal was to strike the perfect balance between comfort, luxury, and nautical correctness, ensuring the yacht would perform exceptionally well once it began cruising. Each team member, specialising in their respective field, contributed their expertise to the build. We held weekly meetings to discuss progress, address any challenges, and ensure that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a> met our high standards as a nautical vessel while also providing the utmost in comfort and luxury.Regarding her usage, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a> is primarily intended for chartering. While there may be occasions for personal use, her primary purpose is to be made available for charter. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281446/image/large-e0ee0723252e0616a7a05af524632eb1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281446">Given the growing focus on sustainability, were there specific measures taken during the construction to make <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This is It</a>, more environmentally friendly, and if so, what were they? In line with the latest environmental standards, we implemented several measures to enhance the sustainability of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a>. Firstly, we equipped the yacht with advanced filters to control emissions, significantly reducing its environmental impact. Secondly, the choice of a catamaran design contributes to greater fuel efficiency during cruising, especially when compared to traditional mono-hull yachts. Lastly, in our construction materials, we prioritised environmental friendliness by using aluminium instead of plastics or other less eco-friendly materials commonly found in yacht construction.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/286858/image/large-4a6a1c30a03b55569d5407105c3288e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/286858"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/286859/image/large-d601a1a43ee02c304ce1cf75e99745f3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/286859"> To what extent was the owner actively engaged in and influential during the design and build processes of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This is It</a>?In all his projects, Mr. Papanastasiou has always been actively involved, and this was especially true for the construction of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a>, where he closely followed every step of the process. We provided him with brief weekly reports, and he actively engaged in making decisions and modifications along the way. Some of the features now present on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a> were not part of the original design but were added as the construction progressed. The owner often suggested changes, such as adding specific elements or replacing others, drawing on his extensive experience in chartering and yacht ownership. His insights proved invaluable, particularly given his deep understanding of what guests seek in a charter experience, ensuring that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10542" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="This Is It43.5m (142'9&quot;)Tecnomar2024">This Is It</a> would offer the perfect yachting experience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289261/image/large-ea3635378655fb23692cc8ea84134e11.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289261"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289258/image/large-d120a596051a2b9c66e6be4b36046ad0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289258">Illustrating Mr. Papanastasiou's input, several notable features were added under his guidance. These include the glass installation in the galley, allowing the chef to be in full view of guests in the dining room, and a bar with an Arabian theme. A unique feature is the 'cinema under the stars' on the top deck, enhancing the entertainment offerings. The master stateroom, with its impressive 3.3-metre glass ceiling above the bed, offers guests a mesmerising view of the stars. Additionally, the yacht houses a versatile convertible room, adept at switching between a playroom and a guest room, thus offering flexibility in accommodation and enhancing the guest experience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/286294/image/large-6600cc03a4cb2e7ed882a6c5128e385e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/286294">

Building Tecnomar's 44m catamaran: "This Is It, this is what I want to build"

SuperYacht Times engaged with her owner’s representative focusing on the owner’s vision and the innovative design choices incorporated.

Owner Insights: "This Is It, this is what I want to build"

Designer Christian Leyk of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6643" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Coquine![design] (Company)">coquine![design]</a> has unveiled the renderings of the 60-metre superyacht concept Hippolyta. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329026/image/large-4e2c7788eba90a5fa084acf2c0aaeb51.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329026">This innovative project is the result of a pioneering collaboration between exterior design studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6643" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Coquine![design] (Company)">coquine![design]</a> and interior design studios <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7451" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acoya Design House (Company)">acoya design house</a> and KOJA. Together, they have crafted Hippolyta, which aims to harmoniously blend timeless aesthetics, with cutting-edge technology and sustainability.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329025/image/large-1a9255ac26dcbff61945d7faa878997f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329025">The name Hippolyta translates as 'she who unleashes the horses', deriving from two Greek roots meaning horse and let loose. This element has been incorporating into her design with a horse motif added to her superstructure.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329034/image/large-09e99036e10c28691f58dbfd0c8df2c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329034"> “Hippolyta’s design was never intended to be retro,” explained designer Christian Leyk. “We wanted to design a yacht that embodies the spirit of a particular era without directly replicating historical styles. Many of the yachts now considered timeless were, at the time of their creation, forward-looking in their design. We aimed to do the same by blending classic lines with contemporary flair.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329027/image/large-e2f2fb6f9f66b4a9ef318727ca7842b1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329027"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329028/image/large-1debc17362f954082893646d6307bdb4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329028">Spanning four decks, Hippolyta features a steel hull and aluminium superstructure and presents an exquisite blend of understated luxury and Scandinavian minimalism. Her interior design, led by Anja Carlsson of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7451" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acoya Design House (Company)">acoya design house</a> and Natalie Fogelström of KOJA Design, incorporates premium, eco-friendly materials such as responsibly sourced teak, mahogany, and recycled metals, underscoring the team’s commitment to sustainability.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329042/image/large-b4ea8a14c9072e56844c27f82262a46e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329042">“Hippolyta’s interiors have been crafted with a focus on creating spaces that are timeless yet functional, marrying elegance and comfort in a way that endures through the years,” commented designer Anja Carlsson of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7451" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Acoya Design House (Company)">acoya design house</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329044/image/large-deb905e79eca186cc59c74d58a4debc8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329044">“Our goal was to ensure that every detail in the yacht’s design contributes to an overall sense of balance, sophistication, and timeless beauty,” added Natalie Fogelström of KOJA Design. “Elegance, to us, is not about excess, but about selecting elements that complement each other in form, function, and proportion.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329040/image/large-f533e31b1d08d88a2e9ee575f4b10174.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329040">Hippolyta can accommodate up to 10 guests across a luxurious owner’s suite and four additional guest staterooms, alongside a crew of 16. One of the highlights is her spacious aft lounge and formal dining area on the main deck, which flows seamlessly into the beach club’s pool and lounge area through vintage-shaped panoramic windows.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329031/image/large-bc3bdd150f1929d27453aad891f611ab.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329031"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329037/image/large-392af024337444670b289a76975f0c8c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329037"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329036/image/large-c8ef9ee390f09f1a8e9c892c9b357286.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329036">Her sun deck offers an array of entertainment options including a Jacuzzi, while an indoor lounge and bar area provides the perfect setting for relaxed evenings with unobstructed views of the sea. Hippolyta also boasts a wellness area and ample storage for tenders, Jet Skis, and other water toys.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329032/image/large-8300f513712bd073be0d08299a0bbe5d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329032"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329039/image/large-9a40f5ddf5ba65b6e4d310bf58e0ade5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329039"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329038/image/large-0c6fc5ea0df11abb323f444b606a35d2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329038"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329035/image/large-ec1f85d2805582932f0a99696d15df5a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329035">“Hippolyta is not about size or volume but about creating an exceptional experience for its guests,” concluded designer Christian Leyk. “Hippolyta is its seamless integration between classic and modern elements creating a harmonious, calming, and luxurious setting where guests can unwind and immerse themselves in an unparalleled experience of supreme elegance and luxury.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329030/image/large-7e37b2b5afbdaaf3732685dde261d0dc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329030">

coquine![design] unveils 60m Hippolyta superyacht concept

Designer Christian Leyk of coquine![design] has unveiled the renderings of the 60-metre superyacht concept Hippolyta.

Hippolyta: The 60m superyacht concept from coquine![design]

The 47-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M47.0m (154'2&quot;)Sanlorenzo2024">M</a> is for sale exclusively listed with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a> and will make her world debut a next week's <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show</a>, on Quai l'Hirondelle berth H22. Built by the renowned Italian shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> and delivered in 2024, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M47.0m (154'2&quot;)Sanlorenzo2024">M</a> is part of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>’s 460-500EXP series. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328892/image/large-d5ce3b3341f7baf0c94277453e0ff65c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328892">This impressive <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> showcases sleek exterior styling by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/586" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Francesco Paszkowski (Company)">Francesco Paszkowski</a>. With naval architecture crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a>is constructed with a robust steel hull and an aluminium superstructure.“Our client was preparing for a world voyage and needed a yacht that could bring their dream &nbsp;to life,” says David Westwood, Principal Partner at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>. “We conducted thorough market research, and all paths led us to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> EXP500 series. It fully catered to &nbsp;their needs: a truly liveable interior for extended voyages, round-the-world capabilities, and &nbsp;the ability to support helicopter operations, carry a floatplane, and still have space for large tenders and water toys.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328956/image/large-76f6d1a367f0038a20c94d182f221cf5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328956"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328953/image/large-8f09b3ea3891c1ecb00d26304e9d42b3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328953"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328950/image/large-62bd58be943250dfcf91febc03607a89.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328950">Inside, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/sanlorenzo/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Sanlorenzo yacht for sale</a>’s luxurious interior design was penned by Studio Indigo. The modern and luminous saloon is home to rounded white furniture, which creates an inviting and cosy atmosphere. Dark woods and gold accents lend a sophisticated touch, while generous windows and recessed lighting offer ample light.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328947/image/large-e7df814e532e561df0f3a521bf4217bd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328947">Soft textures in the chosen fabrics onboard balance comfort and style, while white marble and lighter woods lend a bright and airy feel to the yacht’s spacious staterooms.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328948/image/large-ee5d54b08eee330547bfc96baad729c6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328948">With a beam of 9.6 metres, a draft of 2.75 metres, and a gross tonnage of 499 GT, M provides ample space and comfort for up to 12 guests. She also accommodates a dedicated crew of nine, including the captain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328981/image/large-bfbcd16a585c64fd6dff69f3f5780fe7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328981"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328980/image/large-cc84ac2f99f426bbd6964d5d11602088.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328980"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328991/image/large-53fcd8f422356d8559d5fe6a1b0aadf9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328991">Her light wooden decks are home to many convivial spaces, including a minimalistic bar, five pillowy sofas, and exterior dining areas. Swim platforms also create the perfect intimate space for guests to connect with the waves.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328965/image/large-6f8e11394e28868e9d6668383903127e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328965"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328961/image/large-0a553a5fa07a04c905198d10c5f26ae6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328961">Powered by two <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M47.0m (154'2&quot;)Sanlorenzo2024">M</a> achieves a cruising speed of 12.5 knots and a top speed of 15 knots. Her extensive range of 4,300 nautical miles at 12.5 knots makes her well-suited for long-range exploration and adventure.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328941/image/large-a02cabc1b6cdf6bf978d24cf61918b86.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328941"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328914/image/large-106d5c84f5615ff325a0d31c3b3e64e9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328914">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M47.0m (154'2&quot;)Sanlorenzo2024">M</a> has a rugged Landrover Defender-styled exterior that melts into a soft calming abode as &nbsp;soon as you step aboard,” says Westwood. “We dedicated a great deal of time planning the &nbsp;ideal general arrangement and layout plans to improve flow and liveability. The client &nbsp;mandated the London design house <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4664" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Indigo (Company)">Studio Indigo</a>, which in conjunction with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> interior department, delivered a truly spectacular interior. There is no doubt in my mind that &nbsp;the results they’ve achieved will be award-winning.” In addition to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="M47.0m (154'2&quot;)Sanlorenzo2024">M</a>, the yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11043" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alunya49.9m (163'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2023">Alunya</a> is currently for sale with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW</a>, offering further opportunities for those searching for their next luxury vessel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328993/image/large-23e5773a29f89a8e77eedf62d23fdd9d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328993">

 Sanlorenzo yacht M for sale

 Sanlorenzo 47m superyacht M, built in 2024, is now for sale with TWW Yachts. 


Sanlorenzo 47m yacht M to make debut at Monaco

The 49.99-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11043" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alunya49.9m (163'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2023">Alunya</a> has joined the market. The superyacht is offered for sale David Westwood of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a> and will be on display next week at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show 2024</a> on Quai l'Hirondelle berth H21 and will be available to view by appointment only. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295195/image/large-f8abcd5e451e1995e5ccce598ef39937.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295195"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11043" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alunya49.9m (163'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2023">Aluyna</a> is the sixth hull of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> B.Now 50m series, launched in 2023 at the shipyard's Livorno facility. She features exterior design and styling from British studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a>, while her naval architecture is the work of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="PierLuigi Ausonio Naval Architecture (Company)">PierLuigi Ausonio Naval Architecture</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295190/image/large-4d42e660c21229576b0335240de7abdd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295190"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295189/image/large-f0005807feae3ea292bac7506d7f70f8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295189">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> spans four decks in total, with a seamless indoor-outdoor layout, including a main saloon looking directly out onto the Oasis Deck, a revolutionary nautical design concept offering a convivial, sea-immersive onboard lifestyle with a 360 square-metre beach club.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295192/image/large-e9560589cfdd3af546a62aa05cc6522b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295192"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329006/image/large-c0996a481287bf28995b5a3d6aa529cc.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329006">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/benetti/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Benetti yacht for sale</a>'s aft deck opens out with hydraulic platforms to extend the width of the deck out onto the water. There is an infinity pool integrated flush into the aft deck, giving a feeling of being close to the sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295191/image/large-49e4db26360a9c0aec3493d83db5e0d6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295191">The main saloon houses two comfortable cream sofas, meticulously designed by <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/benetti" target="_blank">Benetti</a>, reducing the appearance of visible seams, creating a smooth finish. In addition, the saloon showcases a series of low-level tables crafted by <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/paolo-castelli" target="_blank">Paolo Castelli</a> and armchairs by Minotti and Cassina. <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/yachts/alunya" target="_blank">Alunya</a>’s main saloon has been customised to meet the needs of the owner, rather than featuring a formal dining area, the main deck is furnished with a lounge space, featuring an opulent back-lit Onice Miele marble bar unit with stylish low-level armchairs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295188/image/large-7166cd51c084e39050b9d400f1edc872.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295188"><a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/alunya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329010/image/large-98db0fb1edfbf5335d1bc17838260dc5.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329010">Aluyna, for sale</a>, can accommodate as many as 12 guests across five suites with a spacious owner's suite on the main deck, complete with a study area, large ensuite, and a private terrace. The remaining guest staterooms are situated on the lower deck, designed for comfort and privacy. The yacht also features six additional cabins for an 11-person crew, to look after guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/329007/image/large-4ad13316742b7d55131d0091568a4629.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/329007"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295182/image/large-7442ad952def18e8cbb71891823d185c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295182">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a>has a spacious upper deck, a large wheelhouse contains the helm station and neighbouring captain’s cabin. Walking towards the stern, she features a lounge area, featuring two fixed side tables and extensive windows define the space.“We have come out in force this year, and the yachts we are bringing to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show</a> are a true reflection of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>,” says David Westwood. “New build sales are a major part of our business, and as these three yachts showcase, we have proven time and again our expertise in refining already exciting platforms into dream yachts for their owners, &nbsp;which outperform on the charter market.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/295179/image/large-7c2c91fb992ee473fd2b44bca3f0f820.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/295179">“Our charter division, headed by James Graham-Cloete, was very active with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11043" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alunya49.9m (163'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2023">Alunya</a> this past year,” says David Westwood, Principal Partner at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>. “The charter itineraries &nbsp;were curated around the owner's needs, and we provided counsel on how to position <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11043" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alunya49.9m (163'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2023">Aluyna</a> for success. The results speak for themselves.”<a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/yachts/alunya" target="_blank">Alunya</a> is powered by twin <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/man" target="_blank">MAN</a> engines, providing her with a cruising speed of 13.5 knots and a top speed of 15 knots.

Benetti yacht Alunya for sale

The 50m Benetti superyacht Alunya is for sale with TWW Yachts.

Benetti 50m superyacht Alunya for sale and ready to view at Monaco

The 34.1-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/362" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leopard Yachts (Company)">Leopard</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/416" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Walindi34.1m (111'11&quot;)Leopard Yachts2006">Walindi</a> sold in a deal with Nikos Odysseas Papadakis of International Yacht Sales &amp; Charter&nbsp; introducing the buyer and Vesa Kaukonen of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6774" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Large Yacht Corp. (Company)">Large Yacht Corp</a> representing the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302099/image/large-105aa0785d7a55edaf7884495fa5fd78.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302099">Delivered in 2006 as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/362" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Leopard Yachts (Company)">Leopard</a> 34M series, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/416" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Walindi34.1m (111'11&quot;)Leopard Yachts2006">Walindi</a> features exterior design and naval architecture penned by Italian designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Andrea Bacigalupo (Company)">Andrea Bacigalupo</a>. Previously named Touchstone, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/416" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Walindi34.1m (111'11&quot;)Leopard Yachts2006">Walindi</a> showcases a sleek and contemporary aesthetic, with a sporty silhouette.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/416" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Walindi34.1m (111'11&quot;)Leopard Yachts2006"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302101/image/large-4ae6baf1c26ce8495d314e6a996cd9f9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302101"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302107/image/large-8f48611e102b0578246a2e2b46e2632b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302107"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302109/image/large-7b20c3f20caf12fa2a032eed40485efa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302109">Walindi</a> can comfortably accommodate up to eighty guests across a four stateroom configuration, with her full-beam master suite situated amidship on her lower deck. Her remaining guest staterooms consist of a full-beam VIP suite at the bow, a double and a twin.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/416" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Walindi34.1m (111'11&quot;)Leopard Yachts2006"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302102/image/large-95c682861be94cad449e0a1f10777ece.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302102"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302100/image/large-d2f84cdcf0c838f106a10593eeaa0d9a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302100">Walindi</a> boasts a large and vast sundeck, with plenty of exterior space onboard for alfresco dining and entertaining guests. Her bow and aft decks also offer the perfect opportunity to relax, thanks to oversized sunbeds and loungers. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/302098/image/large-c6effae96036f9fe0dd96b0558db8d7a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/302098">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/416" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Walindi34.1m (111'11&quot;)Leopard Yachts2006">Walindi</a> packs a punch with triple <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines which propel her to an impressive top speed of 43 knots and a cruising speed of 31 knots. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/416" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Walindi34.1m (111'11&quot;)Leopard Yachts2006">Walindi</a> had a last known asking price of €1,950,000.

Leopard’s 34m motor yacht Walindi sold

The 34.1-metre Leopard motor yacht Walindi sold, with a last known asking price of €1,950,000.

34m Leopard motor yacht Walindi sold

The Dutch studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/926" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design (Company)">Sinot Yacht Architecture &amp; Design</a> has shared the details of Inspire, a 138.38-metre superyacht concept centred around the “Power of Inspiration.” A 1,600-millimetre scale model of the design will be presented during next week’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show</a> in Port Hercule. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328812/image/large-6f4c4863f3e3c62d7286d645c0edaab2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328812">Inspire’s exterior silhouette consists of striking architectural lines, with a light blue-green hull colour allowing the vessel to blend in with the maritime environment. Floor-to-ceiling glass façades, multiple hatches, al-fresco lounge areas, and shaded exterior decks allow guests to take in the surrounding water and skies for inspiration.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328820/image/large-48e6ad67c5b732c0888ed908c55e52d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328820"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328813/image/large-1df93aea6e74e2e92016773daad8e46a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328813">As designer Sander Sinot states, “the marine environment has always inspired mankind; by its visual splendour of surging waves and endless skies, as well as its sense of wonder, tales of exploration and legendary voyages. Inspire builds on that legacy by providing unprecedented openness between the inside and out, vast exterior decks, and features such as a blue hole swimming pool and submersible Nemo room.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328811/image/large-ff05ffc2a03566f6a82b8e89664a89fd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328811">Spanning over six decks, Inspire’s&nbsp;top deck is entirely dedicated to the owner, while the upper deck contains a large lounge and open-plan wheelhouse, and the main deck includes guest staterooms, a restaurant, and central staircase lobby.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328823/image/large-6c57016389d0525237e04106bc117222.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328823"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328805/image/large-56a1dc2e3aebf0e9146d88d62afbb498.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328805">This deck is also home to a beach lounge with a blue hole pool, along with spacious areas perfect for “inspiration events”, according to the studio. Inspire’s&nbsp;lowest deck features a submersible observation room for unobstructed views of the sealife down below.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328797/image/large-d422d694260b018bbbda45d35b56fbf2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328797"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328796/image/large-07c132b2c29d0220092459e3cfb2f80e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328796">With a volume of 8,151 GT and a beam of 21.1-metres, the superyacht is capable of accommodating as many as 22 guests across an owner’s suite, two VIP suites, and eight guest staterooms. Inspire&nbsp;is also able to host as many as 51 crew members and the captain.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328822/image/large-52fedd16a6da98c4a988386a42ef1a72.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328822"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328800/image/large-2735890283ebe29cd1d69129bdb355c9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328800">Located on the top deck, the owner’s suite boasts 250-square-metres of living space, with an ensuite bathroom complete with a full-beam vanity, two dressing areas, and a private lounge. The owner’s lounge can be found on the aft of this deck, and is flanked by floor-to-ceiling glass façades with an inserted glass wintergarden. This space is optimised for a morning workout, yoga, or for admiring the morning views of the ocean. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328799/image/large-477ac8b36319020816aadfdff56355ac.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328799">Furthermore, eight guest staterooms are situated forward on Inspire’s&nbsp;main deck. Each stateroom is fitted with a built-in window seat placed in the vast windows, accentuating the connection between the indoors and outdoors.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328802/image/large-ca86739902b6a66948c238df9b464b68.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328802"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328803/image/large-821c8af771ef3a98a2f718bccafe6073.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328803"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328808/image/large-22c25dad2b93f2cf7ed375152fbf5be5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328808">One of Inspire's&nbsp;most standout features is the submersible Nemo observation room, located on the lowest deck, five metres below the sea’s surface. This amenity means guests can “experience intriguing and inspiring underwater life in a serene setting”, the studio explains.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328821/image/large-96b94d5c520ef15f91b27917c9b866b3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328821"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328816/image/large-033f7fb1d1dc9db3f289ffb0730815eb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328816">“We hope our holistic approach towards yachting will inspire owners, prospects, and industry. Just about anything is possible when you experience the Power of Inspiration,” Sander Sinot adds. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328809/image/large-bf5578f0ec59ecc4a692b35fd3722904.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328809">Regarding her performance, Inspire can reach a cruising speed of 11 knots and a top speed of 16.5 knots. When cruising at a speed of 11 knots, she has a range of 3,750 nautical miles. In terms of her storage, the superyacht has the capacity to store a two-by-13-metre limo tender, a one-by-9.5-metre tender, and various water toys onboard. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328806/image/large-bb824bd3c4be3f46ae71fa0151f499a3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328806">

Sinot’s 138m superyacht concept Inspire

Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design has shared the details of Inspire, a 138m superyacht concept.


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 Introducing Sinot’s 138m superyacht concept Inspire

The 142-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/9442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alibaba136.8m (448'10&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Alibaba</a> has successfully completed her sea trials. Launched in December 2023, the yacht began sea trials early last week near Brunsbüttel, Germany and returned to the shipyard earlier this week. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328851/image/large-663a4487341f8e95d852a0eb89354f24.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328851">Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/171" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="German Frers (Company)">German Frers</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alibaba136.8m (448'10&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Alibaba</a> features naval architecture crafted in-house by her German shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>, with interior design crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/153" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nauta Yachts S.r.l. (Company)">Nauta Design</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alibaba136.8m (448'10&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Alibaba</a> exhibits <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>'s signature an elongated bow, complete with angular contours and striking exterior elements.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328852/image/large-a050f0ffd8414773aba49162e2ba2ddb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328852">Boasting four expansive decks that fuse sophistication with a military-like edge, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alibaba136.8m (448'10&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Alibaba</a> features large exterior decks, with her aft deck spanning nearly half of her profile. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328853/image/large-b0de0c0b45328917472afdc8a3bbbd82.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328853"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alibaba142.0m (465'11&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Alibaba</a> garnered attention last year when a technical failure of the dock gate forced water out of the dock, pushing her bow into the dock curtain as a consequence. As a result of this, <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/yachts/alibaba" target="_blank">Alibaba</a> was prematurely launched by <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/lurssen" target="_blank">Lürssen</a> in December 2023.Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/59289" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="140m+ in-build superyacht damages Lürssen dry dock in Bremen (2023-12-07 18:00:00 +0100)">140m+ in-build superyacht damages Lürssen dry dock in Bremen</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326950/image/large-692c5a9315e6eca85d7c807f0b69f0a9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326950">"<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alibaba142.0m (465'11&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Alibaba</a> is a proud testament to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>’s ability to build yachts driven by the creative and challenging requirements set by our owners," added Peter Lürssen, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326951/image/large-e1932aed6c3a64ee1080b92f979c3f10.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326951">Regarding her propulsion system, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alibaba136.8m (448'10&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Alibaba</a> is equipped with a highly efficient Diesel-Electric Hybrid Propulsion Concept that combines diesel-propulsion technology with efficient modern electric propulsion systems.Her &nbsp;system consists of two diesel engines that drive two controllable pitch propellers through individual gearboxes, equipped with PTI/PTO units that can be used for either electric propulsion or generating electrical energy to operate <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alibaba142.0m (465'11&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Alibaba</a>.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alibaba142.0m (465'11&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Alibaba</a> is also equipped with an electric Azimuth Pod Drive, which in electric mode can be used either separately, or together with the other propulsion components to generate the top speed. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alibaba142.0m (465'11&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Alibaba</a> is scheduled for delivery later this year.According to <a href="https://sytiq.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Superyacht iQ</a>, other in-build superyachts by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> include the 134.2-metre yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11483" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Deep Blue134.2m (440'3&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2025">Deep Blue</a>, due for delivery in 2025, as well as the 114.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10233" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cosmos114.2m (374'8&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2025">Cosmos</a>, and 102.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11563" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="JASSJ102.4m (335'11&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2025">JassJ</a>.&nbsp;

142m Lürssen yacht Alibaba completes sea trials 

The 142-metre Lürssen superyacht Alibaba has successfully completed her sea trials in Germany. 

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142m Lürssen superyacht Alibaba completes sea trials 

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a>, a specialist company specialising in smart treasury and FX solutions, has officially launched, with a focus on providing bespoke financial management services for the yachting and luxury asset sectors. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328795/image/large-fe2a81fc2bbdbab892f995a97b7b507a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328795">Founded by Edward Majdalany, an industry expert with a background in fintech, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> aims to transform financial operations for yacht professionals, family offices, and high-net-worth individuals worldwide."My passion for the yachting industry goes beyond the financial management of vessels - it’s about building strong, trustworthy relationships with professionals and owners," explained founder Edward Majdalany. "At <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a>, we deliver bespoke, client-led treasury and FX solutions with an unparalleled level of service.''Leveraging over a decade of experience in the fintech sector, Majdalany previously led a prominent team responsible for managing treasury solutions for more than 1,600 yachts, with assets ranging from 24-metre vessels to over 100-metre superyachts.&nbsp;Under his leadership, billions in annual transactions were handled, giving <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> a foundation of strong industry partnerships and deep insights into the financial needs of yachting professionals. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207049/image/large-6efc7a17a9aca28d6b99061af9676bc1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207049">Strategic partnerships and tailored solutions<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> has partnered with Equals Group, a fintech company listed on the AIM market, to offer a comprehensive range of financial services. Through this collaboration with Equals Money, the B2B arm of Equals Group, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> provides secure, competitive financial products utilising advanced technology and expert support. These solutions are specifically tailored to meet the needs of yacht owners, managers, and other high-end clientele.The company has already made an impact within the yachting community, working behind the scenes with key clients, including a leading yacht management firm. “We chose <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> for their in-depth knowledge of the yachting industry,” explained the COO of the company.“They swiftly set up accounts with virtual cards for one of our clients, who owns a fleet of three yachts, in under a week—while other banks took over two months. We have another client who has just commissioned a new yacht and will be running significant FX through <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> for the purchase, as their rates are far superior to both our group-level banking relationships and the owner’s banking relationships in the US.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/209770/image/large-4b321c8a54d9583f4425593c9a55aac4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/209770">Comprehensive financial services for yachts and luxury assets<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> offers a full suite of services designed for the unique needs of the yachting industry and luxury assets, including:<ul><li>Platform and named IBAN solutions</li><li>Competitive FX and payments</li><li>Multi-currency, virtual, and debit cards integrated with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay</li><li>Expense management tools with receipt capturing and annotations</li><li>Zairos Connect, enabling seamless integration with accounting systems and mass payments for expenses such as crew salaries</li></ul>“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> consistently delivers quick, efficient service, helping us handle everything from large corporate expenditures to complex currency exchanges. Their rates and response times are always ahead of our global banking partners,’’ added the owner of a 60-metre superyacht and CEO of a major real estate property financing firm with over $2 billion in loans. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/208213/image/large-1afe5578fb09a7a6df7bf2e733fc1f96.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/208213">Focus on foreign exchange and hedging strategiesWith a specialised focus on foreign exchange, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> aims to help yacht owners and managers navigate the complexities of cross-currency transactions. The company employs institutional FX rates and advanced hedging strategies to minimise currency risks and ensure maximum value for clients engaged in buying or selling luxury assets across different currencies.James Simcox, Chief Product Officer and Managing Director International at Equals Group, commented on the partnership, saying, "We’re thrilled that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> has chosen to collaborate with us in delivering secure, efficient, and effective payments and FX services for managers and high-net-worth individuals."<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> will be attending the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show 2024</a>, where the company aims to engage with &nbsp;clients and industry professionals to demonstrate how their tailored financial services can support treasury and FX needs within the yachting sector.For more information about <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a> and its offerings, or to schedule a meeting in Monaco, please contact Edward at <a href="mailto:edward@zairos.com" title="">edward@zairos.com</a>.

Zairos launches financial services for yachting industry

Zairos has launched, offering smart treasury and FX solutions tailored for the yachting and luxury asset industries.

Zairos launches with focus on financial management services for the yachting industry

The 78-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/570" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Admiral (Company)">Admiral</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8722" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Platinum78.0m (255'11&quot;)Admiral2024">Platinum</a> has been delivered following her sea trials last month. The superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8722" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Platinum78.0m (255'11&quot;)Admiral2024">Platinum</a>, which is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/570" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Admiral (Company)">Admiral</a>’s flagship, is set to attend the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/203" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mediterranean Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show</a> next week in Port Hercule. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/322731/image/large-9ed9851a2725d60ae2a7367649b72b78.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/322731">“The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/570" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Admiral (Company)">Admiral</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8722" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Platinum78.0m (255'11&quot;)Admiral2024">Platinum</a> yacht is a masterpiece of design and elegance that will leave a lasting mark on the yachting landscape and represent a point of reference for large luxury yachts in the coming years. I would therefore like to thank the owner's team, represented by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7748" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Magnitude Yachts (Company)">Magnitude</a> company, who assisted us throughout the construction phase of this incredible jewel,” comments Giovanni Costantino, Founder and CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">The Italian Sea Group</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/322730/image/large-706780cc710329b9ddfc3644813f7398.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/322730"><a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/yachts/platinum-78m" target="_blank">Platinum</a>'s six-deck configuration boasts a large helipad at her bow, however the real eye-catcher is her swimming pool on her main deck aft. She additionally features identical staircases leading to her vast transom which provide aesthetic symmetry to her exterior design.&nbsp;<a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/yachts/platinum-78m" target="_blank">Platinum</a> showcases exterior design by <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/lobanov-design" target="_blank">Lobanov Design</a>, with naval architecture penned in-house by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/37" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture (Company)">Azure Yacht Design &amp; Naval Architecture</a>, and interior design from the drawing boards of <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/sinot-exclusive-yacht-design" target="_blank">Sinot Yacht Architecture &amp; Design</a>.In terms of performance, <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/yachts/platinum-78m" target="_blank">Platinum</a> is believed to be powered by <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/mtu" target="_blank">MTU</a> engines and has an estimated volume of 2,200 GT.

Admiral superyacht Platinum delivered

The 78-metre Admiral superyacht Platinum has been delivered to her owner by her builder. 


 78m flagship Admiral superyacht Platinum delivered

The 53.25-metre support yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Five Oceans53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2024">Five Oceans</a> has been delivered to her owner by her builder, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>, following her launch in March. The superyacht, which is the second of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> YS 53 support series, will be on display at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show</a> next week in Port Hercule. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328631/image/large-9bf1dcaa72d048b6e16bfda7d9d348ba.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328631">Characterised by an unmissable sky blue hull, the yacht’s interior and exterior design, along with her naval architecture, were all crafted in-house by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328636/image/large-31b22eb7464117a95ee212425d921966.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328636">At a volume of 499 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Five Oceans53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2024">Five Oceans</a> is capable of sleeping as many as eight guests onboard, while accommodation is also available for up to 10 crew members. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Five Oceans53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2024">Five Oceans</a> is characterised by her expansive aft deck stowage space. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328634/image/large-72348a4b6b8e7b1aa023e85d8fa5a238.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328634">In terms of her performance, the motor yacht, which has a beam of 9.2-metres and a draft of 3.05-metres, is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines that provide a cruising speed of 12 knots along with a top speed of 19 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328635/image/large-3eb9e03f8b6f9d9376269f1e85cdaead.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328635">“We are proud to have launched this very special 53-metre Yacht Support. Seeing her out in the open and ready for action is the start of something truly exciting,” comments Jan van Hogerwou, Commercial Executive at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328637/image/large-608c84c2c637b0735515f22b529cf1a0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328637">The superyacht, which is the second of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> YS 53 support series, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Five Oceans53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2024">Five Oceans</a> was constructed on behalf of an owner committed to preservation of the maritime environment. Following her delivery, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Five Oceans53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2024">Five Oceans</a> is now set to undertake an ambitious programme of maritime research. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328632/image/large-69044721873625e9d8f4a1023fec9407.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328632">Rob Dolling, Founder &amp; CEO at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2313" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Verpeka Dolling Yacht Brokerage (Company)">Verpeka Dolling Superyachts</a>, the Monaco-based yacht sales and charter company, commented, “Having been involved in several <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachtin</a>g new builds, it has always been a great experience from start to finish. This particular project has presented its own unique challenges as a stand-alone explorer, but Damen Yachting has met or surpassed our requirements at every turn. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12036" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Five Oceans53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2024">Five Oceans</a> is equipped to a very high level and more than ready to tackle the owner’s lofty desire for exploration, philanthropic endeavors, ocean conservation and research around the globe."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328633/image/large-3cffaa1cb9897932ef3dc1e8422e19e9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328633">

53m Damen Yachting yacht Five Oceans delivered 

The 53.25-metre superyacht Five Oceans has been delivered to her owner by her builder, the Turkey-based shipyard Damen Yachting.  

 Second 53m Damen Yachting YS 53 support yacht Five Oceans delivered 

New images have been unveiled of the 36.86-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/14" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RMK Marine (Company)">RMK</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a>. Launched earlier this year, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a> was designed for an experienced yachtsman, with world cruising in mind.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328623/image/large-1567def3bb907f6c196bb0bd79dba146.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328623">Launched in July 2024, the RMK120 yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a> features exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a>, while her interior was penned by Turkish-based studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6338" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Epikworks (Company)">Epikworks</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a> marks the sixth collaboration between Dutch design studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a> and Turkish shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/14" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RMK Marine (Company)">RMK Marine</a> and shares the same familiar heavy lines of a traditional trawler-style yacht, paired with the typical masculine capabilities that remain at the heart of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a>’s design DNA.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/61068" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="37m RMK Marine motor yacht Seven Seas launched (2024-07-31 10:30:00 +0200)">37m RMK Marine motor yacht Seven Seas launched</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328764/image/large-10ec05f843f786df2ae96e2adf770df9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328764"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328763/image/large-a67cb1cabad2c254ba64dd3827a5bef5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328763">“I define the RMK120 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a> as ‘the power of elegance’ and the ‘elegance of power’,” explained Cüneyt Okcu, Yacht Division Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/14" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RMK Marine (Company)">RMK Marine</a>. “Like many of our previous <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a> designs, you feel cosy and safe. You can truly feel the spirit of the sea in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a>.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328787/image/large-868786bec7e472794e3b6d2911c697b9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328787">Construction of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a> first commenced in 2020, with her designers describing her as a “pocket-sized explorer imagined on a grand scale.” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a> boasts long range cruising capabilities, and has been optimised for tender carrying capacity.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328788/image/large-e6fc845f19bcfcb426cf94c4bef0a4b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328788">In terms of interior layout, upon entering <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a>, guests are greeted by a large open-plan lounge and dining area, large sofas and seating arrangements and a dining table with seating for up to 10 guests forward.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328786/image/large-45eb53b25a97611f33998a3b2520b1cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328786"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328768/image/large-cba87c620bf9ce1785f09961197cab2d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328768"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328774/image/large-4dfcfaec8840d67002a80145cb41aa6f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328774">Seven Seas</a> showcases a five stateroom configuration for up to 10 guests, with her full-beam forward-facing master stateroom situated at the bow on her main deck. The remaining guest staterooms are located on the lower deck and consist of three doubles and a twin, all with ensuite bathrooms.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328748/image/large-0748f0f1ecab54da4f52ee5cc79dbd46.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328748"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328747/image/large-b238f73e58719cd452aaab5669daa2e8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328747">&nbsp;Her exterior design focuses solely on the owner experience, with areas enhanced for guest appeal and designed from the perspective of those spending long periods of time onboard. Her aft-facing seating area features a three-tiered mezzanine, which is perfect for gatherings.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328622/image/large-0051b1ae0b0e7a0fc0891face63e595b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328622">“The mezzanine seating is a cool alternative to a typical forward-facing layout found on an explorer,” commented Bart M. Bouwhuis, Co-Creative Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a>. “It creates a carefully elevated stepped deck that offers an easy entrance into the lazarette, more space for socialising and a real connection to the yacht’s surroundings.”This mezzanine space is nestled between a nine-metre wide swim platform and main deck aft dining area, creating a large space designed for both relaxation and entertainment, with views out to sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328620/image/large-0e44e6b499ed4f7d58e0a3fedc01969d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328620">The wheelhouse of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a> is divided into two spaces, with sun loungers, seating and dining spaces found directly in front of the bridge, while a stepped down technical area is placed at the bow.Her private top deck benefits from a partially shaded hard top, with a forward guest area, complete with a Jacuzzi, bar, sunpads and dining area. As well as this, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a> features a 55 square-metre aft tender deck and is equipped with a 7.5-tonne crane for lifting tenders and toys into the water with ease.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328628/image/large-a4ffd6aa2f36de87d1a195e39dcbe9cc.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328628">“It’s a smart exterior layout that gives the owner the outdoor living space and feel of a large boat on a compact 120-foot explorer,” added Bart M. Bouwhuis.Performance-wise, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</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. “By fashioning the luxuries of a superyacht into the DNA of an explorer, the RMK120 delivers low operation costs, more accessibility in remote areas, and all with a layout driven by life onboard,” concluded <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a>.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10750" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seven Seas36.86m (120'11&quot;)RMK Marine2024">Seven Seas</a> will be on display at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">Monaco Yacht Show 2024</a> and can be found at S21.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/328624/image/large-b79e73e515b245dd11751fffc2dde546.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/328624">

Owner Experience

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