By Mark de Jong, Marketing Manager of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thesuperyachtlifefoundation.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">The Superyacht Life Foundation</a>The sordid world of superyachts. Floating lairs for Bond villains. Yachts purchased with stolen cash. These are just a few of the headlines that habitually plague our industry. Whether splashed on the front page of the New York Times or the homepage of the Daily Mail, these stories are responsible for serious reputational damage.&nbsp;While other luxury goods are widely seen as aspirational, lofty ambitions for the fortunate few, superyachts are often perceived as being gluttonous or even immoral. An industry without a conscience.&nbsp;It’s time we asked ourselves: are we happy with the way our industry is represented on the global stage?&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/175547/image/large-a2d172c08b332348a451a78a5c3b6701.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/175547">(Above: the superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1596" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Planet Nine73.2m (240'2&quot;)Admiral2018">Planet Nine</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/tenet-yacht-planet-nine" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">starred in the this year's blockbuster film Tenet</a>&nbsp;and was owned by the 'bad guy'.)With more NDAs per capita than most industries put together and rather difficult-to-hide products, it’s no surprise that we’re an easy target. But that doesn’t mean we should take the blows lying down. There’s so much good within the industry that doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.&nbsp;From philanthropic owners to the innovative builders and designers, we’re an industry that’s not short on good stories. But without sharing these stories with the world, how can we expect to change the public perception?<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/176187/image/large-80ba6b36ced9503f7a39aef7f62ae41a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/176187">Fortunately, we’re not the first to ponder this and we can look outside the industry for inspiration. The Cruise Line Industry Association found success in recent years with their <a href="https://www.travelagentcentral.com/cruises/clia-launches-cruise-forward-program" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Cruise Forward</a> campaign, illustrating the benefits of cruising and advances in sustainable technologies.&nbsp;And, after a certain Leo DiCaprio-led movie about the dark side of luxury (no, not The Wolf of Wall Street) came out in 2006, the industry in question responded with <a href="https://www.diamondsdogood.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Diamonds Do Good</a>, an initiative to promote the positive impact that diamonds have on communities around the world.&nbsp;And, just like the diamond industry, the superyacht industry also makes a significant positive impact across the globe from wealth redistribution to onshore spending.&nbsp;This likely isn’t new information for the majority of people reading this. We know our industry is forward-thinking, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/51230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Insight: Sustainability training with Water Revolution Foundation (2020-05-01 12:15:00 +0200)">environmentally-conscious</a> and provides employment to many. But while we know this, does Joe Bloggs?&nbsp;We need to go beyond championing our worth in industry media and start showcasing to the world that we are an industry worth its salt. An industry made up of talent, innovation and good people doing excellent work. No longer should we be epitomised by tycoons and tyrants but instead unrivalled adventures, exceptional lifestyles and the people who make it all possible.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/99407/image/large-106ef47c6276375b8248672b27b3b4ec.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/99407">But these arguments are difficult to make for individual companies alone. That’s why <a href="https://thesuperyachtlife.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">The Superyacht Life Foundation</a> was established. We’re here to set the story straight; to blow our own trumpet until the world is sick of hearing about how amazing we are. A collective to promote the entire industry, with companies and competitors banding together in one orchestrated campaign, allowing the industry to put its best foot forward and showcase the lifestyle, people and places behind the superyachting good life.And there seems to be widespread agreement with this approach. In a recent <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/news/webinars" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times webinar</a>, an overwhelming 83% of the industry agreed that a closer collaboration was needed to promote yachting. But there are costs to running such a campaign – especially if we are to reach the right people in the right places. Disappointingly, a follow-up question during the same SuperYacht Times webinar showed that only 36% felt this should be funded by companies across the industry.&nbsp;But if not, who? We’re fortunate to have the support of some of the most forward-thinking companies in the business who understand that it is their responsibility to reinvest in the industry they profit from. But more support is needed to take our efforts to the next level.And there’s much to gain. We know that only a small number of those who can afford to engage in superyachting actually do so. We also know that there are some who are reluctant to engage for fear of being brandished across the Daily Mail. No owner should have to worry about the stigma that could come with superyacht ownership. Ownership is, in many cases, the apex of a dream; something that should be celebrated, not hidden. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/96960/image/large-1ad356054bfbae052c64dff3b5857ac5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/96960">If our clients, who invest such huge sums in our industry, are having to do so covertly, then we are failing them.We’re also facing choppy waters with the pandemic disrupting usual sales channels and decimating the short-term charter market. If we are to come out of this stronger than before, we need to do so with a reputation to match.As a collective, we can go beyond the individual brands, instead focusing on the qualities that attract people to superyachting in the first place. And there are many, from families coming together to explore the far corners of the world to the skilled craftsmen and women who work behind-the-scenes to enable these extraordinary voyages.&nbsp;You may have seen some of our stories on <a href="https://thesuperyachtlife.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">thesuperyachtlife.com</a>. These stories shine a light on all things good in the world of superyachting and are pushed to new audiences by way of digital advertising. But we want to do more with <a href="https://thesuperyachtlife.com/partners/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">our partners</a>. Events that introduce the superyacht lifestyle to those unaware. A true PR campaign that results in positive coverage across global top-tier publications. Market research to really understand what our clients want. As a collective, we can do all of that, for the benefit of the entire industry.It’s time to set the story straight. Less scandal and more sustainability. Less adversity and more adventure. But this is only possible with substantial industry support. Consider this a rallying call, a challenge for our industry to come together and raise our flag proudly. To say to the world, superyachting is inherently good.Let’s grow the industry together.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/177271/image/large-7c7a71a7c0ee93fd6d6b1e582e79dbdb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/177271">

Why ensuring balanced yachting press is the industry's responsibility

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Mark de Jong of The Superyacht Life Foundation

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Mark de Jong, Marketing Manager of The Superyacht Life Foundation, explains why positive yachting press matters. Read more on SYT. 

Opinion: Why superyacht bad press is all of our responsibility

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

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

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

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

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

Redesigning the 50m Feadship superyacht Emerald with owner 

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

Owner interview: Redesigning the 50m Feadship superyacht Emerald

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

Build story of 45m Scintilla Maris

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

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The unlikely conversion of the 45m trawler Scintilla Maris 

Onboard 44m Hemisphere with owner 

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

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

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

51m Double Haven yacht 

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

Captain's insight: Nick Spence of Double Haven

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

Interview with J-Class Velsheda First Mate

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

Velsheda: Life aboard a Golden Age J-Class

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

Ownership: The 46m yacht Mutiara Laut

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

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

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

Owner Luca Regusci and his 32m Benetti yacht Miamaa

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

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

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

Massimo Perotti and his 33m SP110 yacht Almax 

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

Ownership: Massimo Perotti and his 33m SP110 yacht Almax

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

Sanlorenzo yacht ACE owner Tarek Khalil

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

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

The 60.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7338" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusine60.4m (198'2&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Lusine</a> sold in a deal with Andrew Bond of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> introducing the buyer and Jonathan Hind of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a> and Luc Khaldoun from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6947" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kayz Marine (Company)">Kayz Marine</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243147/image/large-9bf8df40d263f16327f3a02550982333.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243147">Previously known as Project Falcon, the fully-custom motor yacht was delivered in 2022 from the Netherlands. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7338" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusine60.4m (198'2&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Lusine</a> features an exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a> with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/460" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Van Oossanen Naval Architects (Company)">Van Oossanen Naval Architects</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/241621/image/large-af24b745e5522ac98c09b33a2638a7b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/241621"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243145/image/large-77c71b609b346f6786c94e408e1d5a16.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243145"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243146/image/large-5fdea196587ce1e17bf525c49596bb56.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243146"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7338" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusine60.4m (198'2&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Lusine</a> is characterised by her striking exterior profile, and her most notable exterior feature, a ‘bird’s wing’ motif. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a> penned this detail to integrate her main deck, bridge and sun deck without interfering with the horizontal sweeps of glass.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243144/image/large-8a0d03ff13fc3e80d9c5139b4f98b5cd.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243144"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7338" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusine60.4m (198'2&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Lusine</a> features interior design from <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> with a nautical theme flowing throughout. Her main saloon is adorned with creams and blues, while her coffee tables replicate natural formations such as crystals or coral reefs.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/55951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="First look onboard Heesen’s 60m superyacht Lusine (2022-09-19 11:30:00 +0200)">First look onboard Heesen’s 60m superyacht Lusine<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243143/image/large-915ca713691a0be03c6ccde557f1a1f9.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243143"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243140/image/large-8cdec4ce3e931c244aa53188cce150ec.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243140"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243141/image/large-a8b6fa844782771d99f53e0f803d76e2.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243141"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7338" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusine60.4m (198'2&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Lusine</a> welcomes up to 16 guests across eight staterooms, all of which are ensuite. The owner’s suite and a VIP suite are located on the sundeck, while there are four twin staterooms on the lower deck, and a full-beam VIP with lounge and twin stateroom on the main deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/241623/image/large-9d2b661b08a11fceac7989073ea4b833.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/241623"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243127/image/large-e9b7fcb69529d638b5a8e79a92714146.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243127"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243134/image/large-92e58b923d2835cfa543993f36cd7a1d.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243134"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7338" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusine60.4m (198'2&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Lusine</a> spans three decks, boasts 1,079 GT of interior volume and is fitted with a number of stand-out features that include a touch-and-go helipad, glass elevator and a raised Jacuzzi. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243135/image/large-5f7881121c02ae24b20cd07b8fcf593d.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243135"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243130/image/large-82c9099bf8b829e8cc93c2f7a4c875b9.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243130"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/243126/image/large-5b5bfabd489ebd49608435081b6e24ed.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/243126"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7338" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusine60.4m (198'2&quot;)Heesen Yachts2022">Lusine</a> is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines that deliver a 4,200 nautical mile range when cruising at 12 knots, and a top speed of 17.5 knots. At the time of her sale, Lusine had a last known asking price of $82,000,000.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/242968/image/large-c33366fd6b35a15a8a09bb5dc693afed.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/242968">

60m Heesen motor yacht Lusine sold

The 60m Heesen superyacht Lusine sold with a last known asking price of $82,000,000.

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60m Heesen superyacht Lusine sold

The 41m Concorde sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/243" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Pure 241.0m (134'6&quot;)Concorde Yachts1992">Ocean Pure 2</a> sold in a deal with Maël Fiolet of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons International (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> representing the seller, in collaboration with Bertrand Vogèle from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6490" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Next Yachting (Company)">Next Yachting</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250766/image/large-dbecdc47b2acee688788f4faabbb5874.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250766">The custom-built sloop <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/243" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Pure 241.0m (134'6&quot;)Concorde Yachts1992">Ocean Pure 2</a> was delivered in 1992 from Thailand and combines all the luxurious amenities of a superyacht with the joy of sailing. She features exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/152" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Farr Yacht Design (Company)">Farr Yacht Design</a>, with interior design from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/443" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Derek Frost & Associates (Company)">Derek Frost &amp; Associates</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232905/image/large-a07b64b45f121239387100558bd73544.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232905"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/245563/image/large-5c3031d37f0ee3275438677dc915d11d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/245563"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/243" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Pure 241.0m (134'6&quot;)Concorde Yachts1992">Ocean Pure 2</a> underwent a multi-million euro refit in 2019 and now features a modern and refined interior adorned with leather, stone, and linen and accented with teak and stainless steel. She boasts three saloons and two dining areas, providing her guests with an abundance of spaces for socialising and entertaining.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/56180" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Redefining passion: The evolution of the 41m sailing yacht Ocean Pure 2 (2022-10-19 14:00:00 +0200)">Redefining passion: The evolution of the 41m sailing yacht Ocean Pure 2<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232907/image/large-fe8bd0eb0ac6620eee691185d6907c09.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232907"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232909/image/large-a26184c24659db1f077e83bb60eb2967.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232909"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/216788/image/large-37450b0eb6c2f71c68d6171d4470c534.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/216788"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/243" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Pure 241.0m (134'6&quot;)Concorde Yachts1992">Ocean Pure 2</a> can comfortably sleep up to 11 guests across five staterooms, including a master suite with a walk-in wardrobe, a VIP stateroom, two double guest staterooms, and a guest convertible twin stateroom with a double and a single bed.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/245568/image/large-198afdb45acff1d01433e3376b97ca6e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/245568"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250808/image/large-984cbc1fdeed4d381794e0cf8fe259e4.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250808"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/232912/image/large-fe0ee63be87e6091eade7b8d8c464ee0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/232912">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/243" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Pure 241.0m (134'6&quot;)Concorde Yachts1992">Ocean Pure 2</a> is equipped with a single <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1633" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lugger (Company)">Lugger</a> engine, providing her with a top speed of 12.5 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/243" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Pure 241.0m (134'6&quot;)Concorde Yachts1992">Ocean Pure 2</a> had a last known asking price of €4,400,000.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250765/image/large-ffb5107d2750250b5cf6336f829abd26.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250765">

41m Concorde yacht Ocean Pure 2 sold

The Concorde sailing yacht Ocean Pure 2 sold with a last known asking price of €4,400,000.

41m Concorde sailing yacht Ocean Pure 2 sold

Delivered in 1904, the 34.1-metre Camper &amp; Nicholsons sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> has entered the market. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/merrymaid/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht Merrymaid, for sale</a>, boasts an impressive history dating back over a century and has been refitted over the years, leaving her in perfect condition for her new owner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272093/image/large-3421ba6530b5040acfc8b808eb4d1164.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272093"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> was built as Yard No. 167 at the Camper &amp; Nicholsons Shipyard in Gosport, United Kingdom for Mr. T.A. Hardcastle. Constructed from carvel-planked teak on oak frames, with a teak superstructure and decks, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/sailing/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">sailing yacht for sale</a> amazed yachtsmen with her combination of speed and comfort.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/82521/image/large-6b69b48e814853874c4d41eabfae8883.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/82521">After many years of racing, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> received an engine and was re-rigged as a ketch in 1911 to be used for cruising. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> was laid up in Norway for the latter part of the First World War, and was subsequently acquired by Mrs. Elizabeth Workman.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272099/image/large-03ba9d592e8d48c7f6cb46e233d4f82b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272099">Mrs Workman restored her original rigging system and campaigned her in the Big Class where <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> raced against yachts such as Britannia and the 46.3-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1616" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lulworth46.3m (151'11&quot;)White Brothers1920">Lulworth</a>. During this time, her owner, alongside Charles E. Nicholson, worked on improving <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a>’s already impressive performance abilities.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272095/image/large-d6678ff1278a23a914cbaf44e386d84c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272095"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> was sold in 1929 to Sir Thomas Royden, chairman of Cunard, who raced and cruised her until the outbreak of the Second World War. Following this, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/camper-nicholsons-shipyard/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Camper &amp; Nicholson yacht for sale</a> was sold again in 1943, where her lead keel and rig were removed.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272100/image/large-67513098951d3aeabcce6e8455af007c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272100"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> was laid up in Tollesbury, Essex for many years before she changed hands twice more. She was then acquired by a family who kept her as a second home, before she was towed to Heybridge Basin, Essex in 1994 awaiting restoration.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272096/image/large-bb7b90f528b91734aa69876aaddb4835.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272096">The owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> conducted a complete rebuild by Southampton Yacht Service while keeping her original elements and interior style. Following this refit from 2006-2008, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> departed for a three-year voyage, before returning for a complete cosmetic and technical upgrade with Southampton Yacht Service.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272097/image/large-4801c9bd95c7ac83b1cb3ec83490e5b5.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272097"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> welcomes guests onboard with a sumptuous saloon area, complete with classic Chesterfield style sofas and a gas fireplace. The saloon benefits from a large skylight, which illuminates her bespoke coffee table, which can easily be raised to become a dining table.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272098/image/large-2fb3e14a3ccaa8643a8ada82e9727455.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272098">&nbsp;The pedigree yacht features accommodation for up to six guests across a three stateroom configuration. The master stateroom onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> is situated aft, while her remaining two staterooms are located port and starboard. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> is also able to sleep a crew of six.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272094/image/large-331d99620f31177d4bebb0a376d09603.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272094">The sailing gaff cutter yacht features a Martins Rigging and Contender Dacron sails spanning over 953 square-metres. Performance-wise, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5041" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merrymaid34.1m (111'11&quot;)Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard1904">Merrymaid</a> is equipped with a single 265 horsepower Perkins Sabre engine which provides her with a top speed of 12 knots and a cruising speed of eight knots.&nbsp;

34m C&N sailing yacht Merrymaid for sale

Delivered in 1904, the 34m Camper & Nicholsons sailing yacht Merrymaid for sale boasts an impressive history dating back over a century.

34m classic Camper & Nicholsons sailing yacht Merrymaid for sale

The 33-metre <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/custom-line" target="_blank">Custom Line</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11791" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Renewal 333.0m (108'3&quot;)Custom Line2022">Renewal 3</a> is for sale. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a> was launched in 2022 as part of the new Navetta 33 series. She features an exterior design from the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a>'s Product Committee, while the in-house atelier designed her interiors in collaboration with the yacht's first owner. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/241207/image/large-cce8d27b6259bfd51d5419d936ecb654.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/241207">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> features a four deck arrangement and her interiors feature contrasting woods, with grey and white wooden walls and furnishings and dark brown wood for the parquet flooring. Arabescato Carrara marble is also used throughout, lending the interiors an elegant touch.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/242962/image/large-9a5737fca9b4eab448cade8141037142.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/242962">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/custom-line/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Custom Line yacht for sale</a> can accommodate as many as 11 guests between five staterooms. A full beam master is located on the main deck and on the lower deck there are three doubles and one twin with pullman.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/242959/image/large-4bc8217eced16efbc9c4303d7985a7ff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/242959"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/242961/image/large-2904607cf6eff559f4935179ed0e947e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/242961">The model was designed by the team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuccon International Project (Company)">Zuccon International Project</a> and she features characteristically large windows throughout the main deck. She also features impressive external areas include a large, partially covered sun deck, main and bridge aft decks, extensive foredeck seating and sunpad plus a balcony off the main saloon.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/242960/image/large-581813cfa36a841a4f10432e3188fc62.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/242960">Her semi-displacement GRP hull, bulbous bow, electro-hydraulic stabilising fins with zero-speed function and the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2383" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seakeeper, Inc. (Company)">Seakeeper</a> gyroscopic stabilisers assure best-in-class stability and seaworthiness, with a maximum speed of 16 knots and range of approximately 1,200 nautical miles.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/224859/image/large-89bfc7f9c3991fb8295461a2660244a8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/224859">

Custom Line yacht Renewal 3 for sal

The 33m Custom Line motor yacht Renewal 3 is for sale. The yacht was launched in 2022.

Custom Line 33m motor yacht Renewal 3 for sale

Step onboard the impressive 26.95-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Beso26.95m (88'5&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2022">Beso</a>, where timeless luxury seamlessly harmonises with artisanal craftsmanship. The sleek vessel, delivered by renowned Italian shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti Yachts</a> in 2022, captivates with its exquisite marble-adorned decor and an array of leisurely amenities, such as a modern flydeck featuring a Jacuzzi.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260387/image/large-899db649abe9e5614c65118453ba61a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260387">The esteemed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Filippo Salvetti (Company)">Filippo Salvetti</a> designed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Beso26.95m (88'5&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2022">Beso's</a> exterior. Every inch of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Beso26.95m (88'5&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2022">Beso</a> has been thoughtfully curated to provide an unrivalled sense of refinement and comfort, from the marble-speckled bar nook, to the curved metallic and wooden detailing. The yacht's remarkable presence is further elevated by the contemporary interior design, meticulously crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ideaeITALIA (Company)">ideaeITALIA</a>.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260393/image/large-35a9c7acba5b9ed6eac10fd36999f804.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260393"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260403/image/large-5120f3e500009a3226e1494636a04729.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260403">Inside, the main saloon is airy and showcases a modern linen seating arrangement, including bespoke armchairs and a marble coffee table mirroring the round marble dining table, which can host all guests onboard. Sweeping white curtains reflect the relaxing atmosphere onboard and complement the marble accents adorning the splashback of the two-seat butlers bar, creating a versatile space for formal fine dining and more casual occasions, such as an after-supper drink. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260404/image/large-4057b9ce93ef79e8238efc7361313592.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260404">With a volume of 100 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Beso26.95m (88'5&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2022">Beso</a> can comfortably accommodate up to eight guests across a full-beam master suite, boasting a vanity/study area, reading nook, an ensuite bathroom with his-and-hers bathroom, and strategic ambient lighting. <iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/crV7T5htAfM?&amp;wmode=opaque" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe> Additionally, two VIP staterooms and a further twin guest suite, all elegantly furnished and equipped with ensuite facilities, provide a haven of tranquillity for guests to retreat to. Each bedroom showcases warming hues in the form of underlighting and wooden panelling. Details such as seamless metallic outlines and textured wallpaper are both functional and yet accentuate the timeless stylistic fashion adopted by<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ideaeITALIA (Company)">&nbsp;ideaeITALIA</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260401/image/large-40cf8e9c2015d2c1d9f54d6dc84cd523.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260401"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260394/image/large-e59785f3bc1cfdc157db7710a17c95ae.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260394">Not only does <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Beso26.95m (88'5&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2022">Beso</a> cater to the comfort of her guests, but she also ensures a seamless experience for the dedicated crew members onboard. The yacht's crew quarters feature two separate cabins with ensuite heads, allowing the crew to attend to the guests' every need while maintaining their privacy and comfort. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260397/image/large-107eda1343f986886d0b7ab2c459ef73.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260397"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260388/image/large-40ac8bdbe4e7b9d3f246de19a63f2d93.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260388">One of the highlights of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Beso26.95m (88'5&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2022">Beso</a> is her expansive flydeck, which serves as a hub for outdoor entertainment. Here, guests can bask in the sun-drenched surroundings upon the beige linen seating pads, while immersing themselves in the expansive Jacuzzi. Whether unwinding with a refreshing drink, or savouring a sumptuous meal alfresco style, the flydeck of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Beso26.95m (88'5&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2022">Beso</a> provides an idyllic setting for unforgettable moments with family and friends.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260400/image/large-d242bff3dbc005b58c11f8f33e0b4236.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260400"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260395/image/large-2d771cc7bce056c2001fb28e80a36384.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260395"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/260399/image/large-6c59f0626a0e004329a4846f8087a9a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/260399">Performance-wise, she is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines, delivering a cruising speed of 27 knots and a top speed of 32 knots. With a fuel capacity of 7,000 litres and a water capacity of 1,400 litres, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12222" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Beso26.95m (88'5&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2022">Beso</a> ensures ample range and self-sufficiency for extended voyages, allowing her guests to explore new horizons in unparalleled luxury.

Ferretti yacht Beso onboard

Onboard the 26.95-metre Ferretti yacht Beso, a timeless luxury is showcased throughout, including a marble-adorned decor and flydeck jacuzzi. 

Timeless luxury onboard 27m Ferretti yacht Beso adorned in marble

The 63.77-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/162" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Codecasa S.p.A. (Company)">Codecasa</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/265" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bash63.77m (209'3&quot;)Codecasa S.p.A.1990">Bash</a> has completed a major refit after a fire incident on the bridge deck severely damaged the superyacht. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/265" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bash63.77m (209'3&quot;)Codecasa S.p.A.1990">Bash</a>, previously named Jonikal and Sokar&nbsp;became internationally recognisable after images were published of Princess Diana sitting on her passerelle in August 1997. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212693/image/large-f383cb60713425615bbb43cd992d5199.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212693">The refit has restored the superyacht to her former glory, with the refit conducted at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5572" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adria Docks d.o.o. (Company)">Adria Docks Shipyard</a> in Trogir, Croatia. The refit began when the yacht was towed to the shipyard from Rijeka in 2021 and has been managed by the marine engineering and management company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7165" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Capax (Company)">Capax</a>. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272091/image/large-3f08fb01d7c5781dfe184085faf64526.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272091">Slovenian interior design firm <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bobic (Company)">Bobic Yacht Interiors</a> were hired for the design, production and installation of the yacht's new interior layout, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7165" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Capax (Company)">Capax</a>managed the installation of an entirely new bridge system.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/54188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A yacht fit for royalty: Owner Basim Haidar on his 64m Codecasa superyacht Bash (2021-12-27 11:45:00 +0100)">A yacht fit for royalty: Owner Basim Haidar on his 64m Codecasa superyacht Bash</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272113/image/large-bceb69696e72de52dc390735ca81d101.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272113">Prior to the refit, the yacht was extensively stripped, leading to the installation of entirely new penetrations of the bulkheads and bridge deck, and a new aluminium bulkhead on the wheelhouse to maintain the integrity of the fire divisions with current ABS rules. The yacht was extensively rewired and re-plumbed, demanding the disassembly of the yacht's interiors. The team also fitted new air conditioning and an integrated AV/IT onboard system.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272107/image/large-8abe069456aa0b05402fd23d80a95543.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272107"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272109/image/large-843b2afa9450e797670580b28f33e4f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272109">Teo Petricevic, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7165" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Capax (Company)">Capax</a>, added, "The bridge deck and sun deck areas are painted in white and light grey AWL Grip. Other parts of the yacht were also considerably improved such as installation of integrated Wärtsilä Navigation and Control System, Böning monitoring system fitting, the Techno leader power management system, NAVIS steering system with DP and Autopilot, upgrade of existing SKF stabilisers with ZeroSpeed, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TILSE Yacht Glazing (Company)">Tilse</a> windows, new deck jacuzzi equipment, and the Minimax sprinkler system.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272115/image/large-b1a1956c5042353393f216e3c17d8c5d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272115"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272114/image/large-368034a614876cd0ef668c77e1789ead.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272114">The entire refit was concluded this month, and the yacht is now being offered for charter. Petricevic added, “Getting to this point took a lot of hard work and required a lot of skill, but it was worth the effort. Our warmest thanks go to all those who contributed to the refit of the motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/265" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bash63.77m (209'3&quot;)Codecasa S.p.A.1990">Bash</a>.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272102/image/large-7aec6996b799dd8064391cd3cfd7a042.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272102"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272103/image/large-1edd1ee5e81e07822d9c2f3ebb46219f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272103">Launched in 1990, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/265" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bash63.77m (209'3&quot;)Codecasa S.p.A.1990">Bash</a> was originally designed by naval architect Vincenzo Ruggiero and the Codecasa in-house team, and later interiors came from the boards of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2 Yacht Design</a>. She features a spacious interior, able to accommodate as many as 12 guests in six staterooms, with a main deck master suite with a walk-in wardrobe, a private lounge, and office.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272106/image/large-5a76a5f8b8e6c445d80b11909753d147.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272106"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272104/image/large-e8159e04cc70695c38d88ab21087863d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272104">The additional staterooms are located on the lower deck, all featuring ensuite bathrooms. Top features of her interior are her spacious main saloon with a dining room, a bar, a hair dress room with a massage area, and gym area. Her decks feature two al fresco dining areas on both the bridge deck and the sun deck, various lounge seating areas, a jacuzzi, and a swim platform to her stern.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272101/image/large-1301d790bfd5e845dde1514efe9fea43.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272101">Performance-wise, Bash is built with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure and powered by Wärtsilä Nohab 12V25 engines giving her top speeds of 20 knots and a cruising speed of 13 knots. She has a range of 6,900 nautical miles at 11 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272092/image/large-2db3743978e2caddc00bb909f1e49778.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272092"><a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/owner-insight-basim-haidar-of-the-64m-superyacht-bash" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times interviewed her owner Bassim Haidar back in 2021</a>. &nbsp;

64m Codecasa superyacht Bash refit

The 64m Codecasa superyacht Bash has completed a major refit by Capax.

Famous 64m Princess Diana superyacht Bash completes major refit 

A new order 28.65-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon</a> E88 Sport yacht sold at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/174" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show - 2023">2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS)</a> in Australia. The motor yacht will be the fifth <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon</a> and fourth new-build for the experienced owner, whose most recent yacht is the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon</a> E75.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272087/image/large-f96767df7c75e3aa4edfbce918db5f3f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272087">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon</a> E88 Sport yacht features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/43" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cor D. Rover Design (Company)">Cor D. Rover Design</a>, with interior design and naval architecture by her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon Yachts</a>. The yacht features a single level design that can be operated by her owner and a unique pilothouse helm station.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272088/image/large-743c4d4b6b9c9767dcb968572ff48525.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272088">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon</a> E88 Sport yacht is able to sleep up to eight guests across a four stateroom layout consisting of two doubles and two twins. This model will also feature a tender garage and the capacity to carry up to 12,000 litres of fuel.

29m Horizon E88 Sport yacht sold

A new order has been placed for a 29m Horizon E88 Sport yacht sold during the 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. 

New 29m Horizon E88 Sport yacht sold at SCIBS 2023

The 42.98-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/84" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri Navali Nicolini Srl (Company)">Cantieri Navali Nicolini</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1044" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CD Two42.98m (141'0&quot;)Cantieri Navali Nicolini Srl1993">CD Two</a> sold in an in-house deal at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a> with Edouard Vignal introducing the buyer and Lukas Stratmann representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/202659/image/large-ee99d379f4e5e69b5e70b4e753ff78bc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/202659">Previously named Independent Of London, the motor yacht was delivered in 1993 from Italy. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1044" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CD Two42.98m (141'0&quot;)Cantieri Navali Nicolini Srl1993">CD Two</a> features interior and exterior design from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/85" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Claudio Zampetti (Company)">Claudio Zampetti</a>, with naval architecture from her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/84" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantieri Navali Nicolini Srl (Company)">Cantieri Navali Nicolini</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/202655/image/large-881a5aabb0184156f43d0a8940815797.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/202655"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/202657/image/large-0cd7e7566cdb3c3c81123aed22b6964e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/202657"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1044" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CD Two42.98m (141'0&quot;)Cantieri Navali Nicolini Srl1993"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/202654/image/large-e4c276820c0ca95bf57d77a96722a98e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/202654">CD Two</a> can comfortably sleep up to 13 guests across seven staterooms consisting of a master suite, three doubles and three twin staterooms. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1044" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CD Two42.98m (141'0&quot;)Cantieri Navali Nicolini Srl1993">CD Two</a> also has accommodation for a crew of 13 across seven cabins.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/202649/image/large-d93070904046f60518a081d02d3d03cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/202649"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/202651/image/large-24ede4a9911b70f9938e7e2918bd78e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/202651"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/202647/image/large-2e9cda744b8163b47f592db14bbc7e99.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/202647"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1044" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CD Two42.98m (141'0&quot;)Cantieri Navali Nicolini Srl1993">CD Two</a> has an abundance of entertaining spaces, with a Jacuzzi on her flybridge and a number of alfresco lounging and dining areas. She is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, powering her to a cruising speed of 14.5 knots and a top speed of 17 knots.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/202660/image/large-5fbd4b4499cb617e0aa28749bc448506.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/202660">At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1044" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CD Two42.98m (141'0&quot;)Cantieri Navali Nicolini Srl1993">CD Two</a> had a last known asking price of €2,950,000.

43m CNN motor yacht CD Two sold

Delivered in 1993, the Cantieri Navali Nicolini yacht CD Two sold in-house with Ocean Independence. She had a last known asking price of €2,950,000.

43m Cantieri Navali Nicolini yacht CD Two sold

The 34.4-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2528" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anadolu Shipyard (ADIK) (Company)">Anadolu</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4111" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ofelia34.4m (112'10&quot;)Anadolu Shipyard (ADIK)2000">Ofelia</a> sold in a deal with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6999" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azurine Yachting (Company)">Azurine Yachting</a> representing the seller. Previously named Urndline II, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4111" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ofelia34.4m (112'10&quot;)Anadolu Shipyard (ADIK)2000">Ofelia</a> was launched in 2000 from Turkey by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2528" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anadolu Shipyard (ADIK) (Company)">Anadolu Shipyard</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212403/image/large-837378afb9bde3d3f186be6806f28b18.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212403"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4111" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ofelia34.4m (112'10&quot;)Anadolu Shipyard (ADIK)2000">Ofelia</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/440" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Soyaslan Denizcilik Ltd (Company)">Soyaslan Denizcilik Ltd</a>, with naval architecture in partnership with her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2528" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anadolu Shipyard (ADIK) (Company)">Anadolu Shipyard</a>. The sailing yacht is characterised by her classical interior design with a focus on lacquered woods and a nautical colour palette.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212408/image/large-99a2fb267179d129b7dcbb584b8ac45a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212408"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212404/image/large-0be21acee3872c5db17a3c9202a3372d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212404"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4111" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ofelia34.4m (112'10&quot;)Anadolu Shipyard (ADIK)2000"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212412/image/large-5f97ff9f8e0544141700cff365e8deaa.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212412">Ofelia</a> can comfortably sleep up to 10 guests across six staterooms, comprising a master suite, VIP, two double, and two twins. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4111" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ofelia34.4m (112'10&quot;)Anadolu Shipyard (ADIK)2000">Ofelia</a> can also carry a professional crew of six across three cabins.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212411/image/large-e70da3767edc483569b43165091eb64d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212411">Built with a steel hull and steel superstructure, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4111" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ofelia34.4m (112'10&quot;)Anadolu Shipyard (ADIK)2000">Ofelia</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1483" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cummins Inc. (Company)">Cummins</a> engines. She comfortably cruises at 11 knots, and is able to reach a maximum speed of 13 knots with a range of up to 1,250 nautical miles. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212413/image/large-f9732ab2c5179efde963d2d8452e32d2.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212413">At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4111" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ofelia34.4m (112'10&quot;)Anadolu Shipyard (ADIK)2000">Ofelia</a> had a last known asking price of €3,000,000.

34m Anadolu sailing yacht Ofelia sold

The 34m Anadolu sailing yacht Ofelia sold with a last known asking price of €3,000,000.

34m Anadolu sailing yacht Ofelia finds new owners

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272089/image/large-ced1e833bc5c98681f9f0a1e6d9d6905.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272089">Seen here recently docked in London is the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/785" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hall Russell (Company)">Hall Russell</a> classic yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1894" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jura II36.58m (120'0&quot;)Hall Russell1963">Jura II</a>. Measuring 37 metres in length with a volume of 210 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1894" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jura II36.58m (120'0&quot;)Hall Russell1963">Jura II</a> was delivered by the Aberdeen-based shipyard in 1963. Originally built as Sea Crest and previously named Walanka, she features naval architecture and exterior design by her builder, while her interior was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1144" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Loro Piana Interiors (Misa Poggi) (Company)">Loro Piana Interiors</a>. Fully restored, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1894" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jura II36.58m (120'0&quot;)Hall Russell1963">Jura II</a> is powered by her two original <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2607" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kelvin Diesels (Company)">Kelvin Diesels</a> engines of 350 horsepower each, allowing her to reach a top speed of 12 knots and cover a range of 3,000 nautical miles while cruising at 10 knots.

Hall Russell classic yacht Jura II in London

The 37m Hall Russell classic yacht Jura II is seen here docked in London.

The superyacht industry is sometimes prone to ‘greenwashing’, or exaggerating how environmentally sound its products really are, and yachting journalists are often complicit in this. Part of the problem is the word ‘green’ itself, which is a handy but vague moniker. In the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/superyacht-times-webinar-2-recap" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times Webinar on the subject of green yachts</a>, I suggested it is better to talk about levels of efficiency or sustainability. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/114912/image/large-54d5241461fdb436bafc8a9c1e28a38a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/114912">On the webinar panel was Robert van Tol, executive director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a>, a non-profit organisation that is pioneering efforts to neutralise the ecological footprint of the superyacht industry and preserve the world’s oceans. A few days later I was invited to attend an online version of its course entitled Sustainability Training for the Superyacht Industry, which is organised in partnership with the Center for Sustainability &amp; Excellence (CSE), an international advisory organisation that includes corporations such as Coca-Cola, Nestlé and HSBC as clients.&nbsp;Other attendees on the course included an American professor of naval architecture, a Dutch engineering manager, a German senior project manager, a Taiwanese research manager, an Italian technical director, a French naval engineer and a British business development manager for a well-known design studio, which just goes to show that the sustainability subject is of interest across the entire industry.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/118914/image/large-ca5fffee3989056d81f67e4b7738924b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/118914">The first item on the agenda was definitions and key concepts. Understanding what sustainability really means, how it can create value and for whom, can be confusing as a whole new vocabulary and business culture have grown up around it. Lack of understanding among decision-makers is often why we see a corresponding lack of real action or true commitment.The first and most fundamental lesson I learned was that sustainability nowadays is defined within the wider concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the evolving practice of incorporating sustainable development into a company's business model from a social and economic as well as environmental perspective. This means achieving sustainability at industry level goes beyond merely complying with legislative norms or eliminating greenhouse gas emissions. We have to also take into account wider issues such as equal opportunities in the workplace, ethical procurement practices and local sourcing in the supply chain. These issues can be summed up as responsibility in the workplace, the environment, the marketplace and society, which our instructor referred to as the ‘four pillars’ of CSR. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/118915/image/large-b98dcb380d33c97bd4088b493a9b87dd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/118915">Adopting this holistic attitude to sustainability brings with it various benefits, such as enhancing brand value and stakeholder confidence, as well as boosting employee satisfaction and a company’s ESG (environmental, social and governance) rating – a common way for investors to evaluate companies in which they might want to invest. Ignoring it, on the other hand, can impact negatively on all these factors and more.Creating a sustainability strategy is not a simple process. It requires commitment and investment to create common understanding among staff, suppliers and stakeholders; it means integration in terms of identifying strengths, weaknesses and establishing an action plan; and it involves creating an effective communication programme. The superyacht industry has generally been quick to comply with mandatory measures such as the IMO’s pollution prevention treaty (MARPOL), because it has no choice. Some companies have also accounted for the social and economic aspects. But few have brought all the pillars of sustainability together in the form of an officially sanctioned sustainability report. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/100089/image/large-58b73d310c9c52d7504dd812abae1d58.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/100089">Three sustainability reports (from Grand Banks, Bénéteau and Akzo Nobel) presented during the course highlighted why this might be so. The three reports are included as a chapter in each company’s annual financial statements and make for very dry and dense reading. Making sense of all the data is hugely challenging, especially as there is no single reporting system or set of criteria. Pulling out the highlights, putting them in context and publishing them on the corporate website or issuing a press release would be a simple and effective way of communicating CSR to a wider audience. &nbsp;Sustainability reporting, like CSR in general, is not mandatory. Instead it is motivated by a desire to increase competitiveness, ensure efficient management and maximise the use of company resources. But it is also a useful tool for increasing transparency, rating a company in comparison with competitors and measuring the attitude of stakeholders towards it. To be most effective it would have to be adopted more widely in the industry, but consumers are taking a growing interest in the social responsibility of companies and this trend that will only increase in the uncertain environment created by the coronavirus pandemic. The superyacht industry cannot afford to take this expectation of accountability lightly.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/116778/image/large-96084f247d56dd964e3238af0b86d46f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/116778"> &nbsp;&nbsp;

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