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Superyacht A

A name plate

Motor Yacht A in the Caribbean 

A tender

Originally announced as a new 100m+ project in April 2022, we are now able to share the first exclusive images of the 114.1-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3779" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dörries Yachts (Company)">Dörries Yachts</a> superyacht Arwen, previously known as Project ELF. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308296/image/large-df4294744c97837442d77082628b4eec.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308296">Arwen features an exterior design from the owner's design firm, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7641" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pindaros (Company)">Pindaros</a> assisted by <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/andy-waugh-yacht-design" target="_blank">Andy Waugh Yacht Design</a> and interiors also from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7641" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pindaros (Company)">Pindaros</a> with assistance from <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/champeau-wilde" target="_blank">Champeau &amp; Wilde</a>, while her naval architecture has been created by <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/companies/azure-yacht-design-naval-architecture" target="_blank">Azure Yacht Design &amp; Naval Architecture</a>. The yacht, which is due for launch in 2026 is set to be a head-turner, with a sleek and modern exterior design and a highly technological specification. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308298/image/large-7c04707c75fad849d570f771f9286cf4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308298">Her exterior features a sharp, inverted bow and her profile is punctuated by bow to stern glazing on the main and upper decks that will flood her interior with light. With a 4,950 GT of volume, Arwen features a spacious interior including an owner's stateroom of 290 square-metres and a 190 square-metre main saloon. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308297/image/large-5d68650fdb983669ec90639d1f76032a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308297">Top features aboard the yacht include a 20-metre swimming pool located on her main deck, 13.2-metres of which can be hydraulically raised, transforming the pool into a deck area that is ideal for entertaining guests. From swim platform, the swimming pool can be seen through its glass aft and mirrored stairwells on either side lead up to the main deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308307/image/large-d4fc95305687c48ade3e0ed1c59b3ed3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308307"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308301/image/large-21cf852c0471165d33bab0e0ea46c3d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308301">The superyacht's main saloon features a 5.95-metre ceiling height and has been designed as a versatile club for entertaining. The styling is contemporary and warm and a mezzanine level offers access to the upper deck where the owner's suite is located. The owner's expansive suite includes a lounge, office, stateroom and twin bathrooms with adjoining dressing rooms. The owner's suite also has exclusive access to the foredeck which features a lounge and dining area. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308306/image/large-3a85d14dd397b6abd944f287eec19199.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308306"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308303/image/large-96391a2d498f1598934f05cb6b57ddb5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308303">Laurent Champeau, of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7642" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Champeau & Wilde (Company)">Champeau &amp; Wilde</a>, comments, "Arwen is a unique concept that is pushing the limits of technology in order to achieve a streamlined, yet rich design. Her fluid spaces use elegant materials that define a new approach to luxury. The rich contemporary design vocabulary is harmoniously developed throughout the boat from the bridge deck to the lower deck." <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308305/image/large-b9eaafed8d0238c9c76c0d0f400a4fec.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308305"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308304/image/large-52b3e290a378698bd12072f07b33a3df.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308304">In addition to the owner's suite, Arwen features six staterooms on the main deck, four doubles and two twins, each with a large ensuite bathroom. At the heart of the superyacht's design is a beautiful spiral staircase, located in a central atrium and offering access to the three main guest decks. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308299/image/large-34c5e922490d30b180f41e0164cbdef2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308299"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308302/image/large-cbafd3c3f7fb98eb99b440cb3b1dd8aa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308302">On the lower deck, guests can enjoy the use of the spa, massage room, hair and makeup salon, sauna and steamroom. The lower deck is also home to tender storage amidships, as well as crew accommodation of 18 cabins. The captain's cabin is located on the bridge deck where there is also a helipad designed for a H135 helicopter.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308295/image/large-93237e61a3464911a821f2c7e50f8ce4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308295">When launched in 2026, Arwen will be among the largest superyachts in the world.&nbsp;

Superyacht Arwen by Dörries

First images of the 114m Dörries superyacht Arwen. 

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Exclusive: Unveiling 114m in-build Dörries superyacht Arwen

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308362/image/large-868639f0902577c1887892633c756a17.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308362">Spotted recently docked in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, were the two superyachts <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">A</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8520" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Opera146.35m (480'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2023">Opera</a>, both over 110 metres in length. On the left side of the dock rests the 119-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">A</a>, initially named Project Sigma. Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/24" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Philippe Starck (Company)">Philippe Starck</a> and launched in 2008 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blohm & Voss GmbH (Company)">Blohm &amp; Voss</a>, the 5,500 GT yacht is recognised for her distinctive appearance. Powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> diesel engines, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">A</a> is able to cruise at a maximum speed of 23 knots. Registered under the Sierra Leone flag, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">A</a> showcases notable features including a glass-roofed swimming pool and a total of three pools located on the top deck, aft deck, and foredeck.&nbsp;Moored alongside <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">A</a>, is the 146.35-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8520" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Opera146.35m (480'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2023">Opera</a>. Launched by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> in February 2023, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8520" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Opera146.35m (480'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2023">Opera</a> ranks as the tenth largest operational yacht globally, with a 12,518 GT volume. With an interior and exterior design created by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Terence Disdale Design (Company)">Terence Disdale Design</a>, the motor yacht offers accommodation for up to 36 guests across 18 staterooms. Among <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8520" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Opera146.35m (480'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2023">Opera</a>'s standout features are her dual helipads, twin swimming pools, and an extensive beach club. Her twin diesel-electric <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines deliver a top speed of 22 knots and a cruising speed of 18 knots.

100m+ superyachts A and Opera in Dubai 

The superyachts A and Opera, each measuring over 100 metres, were seen docked in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. 

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/294497/image/large-d291bd3b8bc73495dc5c973ba5d27eb1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/294497">Spotted last week cruising here in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, is the 119-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">A</a>. Constructed in 2008 by the German shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blohm & Voss GmbH (Company)">Blohm &amp; Voss</a> under the project name Sigma, the motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">A</a>, designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/24" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Philippe Starck (Company)">Philippe Starck</a>, stands out as one of the most easily identifiable vessels on the water. Featuring an elegant neoclassical interior and powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> diesel engines, the yacht reaches a maximum speed of 23 knots and accommodates a crew of 42. Featuring distinctive elements such as a glass roof over one of her swimming pools, the superyacht boasts a total of three pools across her top deck, aft deck, and foredeck. The owner of the 5,500 GT superyacht is renowned for commissioning the 142.81-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4450" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sailing Yacht A142.81m (468'6&quot;)Nobiskrug2017">Sailing Yacht A</a>, completed in 2017 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nobiskrug (Company)">Nobiskrug</a>.

119m superyacht A in Dubai 

The 119m superyacht A, built by Blohm & Voss in 2008, is seen here cruising in Dubai.

The world's largest 100m+ yachts

SYT gives you an overview of the world's largest yachts ever launched. 

Top 50: The world's biggest superyachts

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/215917/image/large-89bf69b3cca6a5965578dea94d6fa3dd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/215917">Captured this week docked next to the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel in Dubai is the iconic 119-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">A</a>. Built by the German shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blohm & Voss GmbH (Company)">Blohm &amp; Voss</a> in 2008, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/24" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Philippe Starck (Company)">Philippe Strack</a> designed superyacht is one of the most recognisable yachts on the water and features a lavish neoclassical interior by the same studio. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">A</a> is powered by two 6,035hp <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> diesel engines propelling her to speeds up to 23 knots and operates with up to 42 crew members on board. She boasts an incredible range of 4250 nautical miles while maintaining her top speed. Her owner is well known for having commissioned the 142.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4450" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sailing Yacht A142.81m (468'6&quot;)Nobiskrug2017">Sailing Yacht A</a> which was completed in 2017 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nobiskrug (Company)">Nobiskrug</a>.

Blohm & Voss motor yacht A in Dubai

The 119m motor yacht A, built by Blohm & Voss in 2008, is seen here docked in Dubai

If you picked up a glossy brochure about a new sailing yacht and read about its “modern underwater profile with a fin keel incorporating a trim tab and a low VCG bulb keel with a balanced spade rudder”, you would be forgiven for thinking that it was the result of extensive innovation and the latest design thinking. It is actually a contemporary description of the 38-foot yacht Dilemma designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Herreshoff (Company)">Nathanael G. Herreshoff</a> and launched 130 years ago. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/23943/image/large-5b6d84cdb7fa55934bdba508308adc3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23943">“The combination of modern materials and improved sail plans have allowed some of the most innovative ideas of the late 19th century to finally become a reality,” says Mark Small, a naval architect at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3009" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rob Doyle Design (Company)">Rob Doyle Design</a>. &nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> unwittingly caused a bit of a stir in 2015 when it described 83.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5598" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Savannah83.5m (273'11&quot;)Feadship2015">Savannah</a> as “The world’s first hybrid superyacht.” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman Shipyard BV (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> shot back with the reminder that in 2008 it had launched 58-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ethereal58.04m (190'5&quot;)Royal Huisman Shipyard BV2009">Ethereal,</a> the ketch-rigged sailing yacht noted for her pioneering hybrid propulsion that could draw on 500 kW/h of stored energy in her Li-ion battery bank. &nbsp; <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/26772/image/large-300157fb6a5726426fb4bf052068b75e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/26772">The first diesel-electric (DE) ship was the Russian tanker Vandal in 1903 and hybrid-powered submarines have been around for well over a hundred years. Modern advances in AC drive technology and power management systems largely derived from the commercial and military sectors, together with demand for low emissions and noise levels and increased flexibility and redundancy, is driving DE and hybrid solutions for yachts. &nbsp;Pods able to rotate through 360 degrees gave rise to Dynamic Positioning (DP) systems for automatically controlling the position and heading of a vessel. Once limited to semi-submersible drilling platforms, oceanographic research vessels, cable layers and cruise ships, the popularity of the compact and user-friendly <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Volvo Penta (Company)">Volvo Penta</a> IPS system with individually steerable thrusters has meant DP capability is now available for smaller yachts under 30 metres in length. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/193496/image/large-b26d15d3df27b2557f09da4d17658e8e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/193496">The principles of hydrostatic stability for floating bodies, the basis of modern naval architecture, were first outlined by Archimedes around 250 BC. Boat builders have been looking for ways to enhance the stability of hull shapes ever since.The German engineer Otto Schlick was the first to suggest using a gyroscope to supply torque to oppose rolling motions and his system was installed on a torpedo boat in 1906. The concept was improved upon by the American inventor Elmer Ambrose Sperry and the naval transport vessel USS Henderson was the first large ship with gyro stabilisers in 1917. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/172811/image/large-ba5bf0ed552be640c1e308b4f7c85abb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/172811"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/187257/image/large-b7f6824988cd06a33da374517487549f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/187257">Significantly, all these innovations were introduced first on naval or passenger ships. Indeed, modern specialists like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/964" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Naiad Dynamics (Company)">Naiad Dynamics</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5020" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Quantum Marine Stabilizers (Company)">Quantum Marine</a> pioneered stabilisation solutions in the military and commercial sectors long before applying their know-how to superyachts.“Although stabiliser fins originated with the military, they are now standard on every superyacht,” says Erik Spek, Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/37" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture (Company)">Azure Yacht Design &amp; Naval Architects</a> in the Netherlands. “What gets me every time is that the order form of one particular supplier still asks us to specify the type of combatant vessel!” &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/32355/image/large-f0dd19709e818107561bcd791e0a3fbb.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32355"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/32349/image/large-cdce2d5b197edb51960eb79d0dec871c.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/32349">There are very few technical innovations that have migrated from leisure yachts to other sectors. Water jet propulsion is a rare example. The Italian inventor Secondo Campini unveiled the first functioning pump-jet engine in 1931, but it never became a commercial product. The first person to achieve that was the New Zealand inventor Sir William Hamilton in 1954. Hamilton never claimed to have invented jet propulsion, crediting Archimedes and his screw turbine, but he did refine the concept enough to produce the first modern, commercially viable jet boat. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/79583/image/large-594b4e721e8f5e6805676c14f626d707.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/79583">When scaled up in size, the performance, manoeuvrability and shallow draft of waterjets made them ideal for fast patrol boats and high-speed ferries. At this point, the flow of knowledge was reversed and any developments in the military and commercial fields were quickly picked up by superyacht builders. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1181" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hydro Tec S.r.l. (Company)">Hydro Tec</a> founder Sergio Cutolo, for example, began his career as a naval architect developing naval and passenger vessels, as well as fast yachts, for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a> and the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1486" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rodriguez Group (Company)">Rodriquez Group</a>.&nbsp;Even current trends in aesthetics seem to have trickled down from other sectors. The exterior lines of yachts such as motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">A</a> designed by Philippe Starck and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6018" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bold85.0m (278'10&quot;)SilverYachts2019">Bold</a> by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/82" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Espen Øino International (Company)">Espen Øino</a> were inspired by military designs, and modern explorer yachts take their styling cues from research and supply vessels. But it seems the tide could be about to turn.This article was originally published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/brexit-latest-in-superyacht-times-newspaper" target="_blank">Spring 2021 issue of The SuperYacht Times newspaper</a>. To receive all future issues straight to your door, <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/" target="_blank">subscribe to the newspaper here</a>.

Yachts vs Ships back to the future 

Innovation is a big deal for yacht builders. Defined as the introduction of new ideas, we take a look back at to the past.

Yachts vs. Ships: Back to the Future

<img src="/uploads/store/photo/104219/image/large-41b5d3ee6297f165b53024ad4920bab2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/104219">The iconic 119-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A 119.0m (390'5&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2008">A</a>, seen here in the Japanese city of Kanagawa as she continues to explore the Pacific, was built by at the German shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blohm & Voss GmbH (Company)">Blohm &amp; Voss</a> in 2008. Her divisive <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/24" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Philippe Starck (Company)">Philippe Strack</a> design makes her one of the most recognisable yachts on the water and features a lavish neoclassical interior by the same studio. She is powered by two 6,035hp MAN diesel engines propelling her to speeds up to 23 knots and operates with up to 42 crew members on board. She boasts an incredible range of 4250nm while maintaining her top speed. Her owner is well known for having commissioned the 142.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4450" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sailing Yacht A142.81m (468'6&quot;)Nobiskrug2017">Sailing Yacht A</a> which was completed in 2017 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nobiskrug (Company)">Nobiskrug</a>.

119m motor yacht A in Japan

The 119-metre motor yacht A spotted in the Japanese city of Kanagawa recently. 

The 119m motor yacht A in Kanagawa

Claydon Reeves is probably run by the most down to earth guys in the business. Founded by James Claydon and Mike Reeves in 2010 after a largely automotive design education followed by positions in some of Britain’s most prestigious yacht design firms, they are the first to admit that as the (relative) new kids on the block, the world of superyacht design has been an intensely competitive one to enter. With true passion for intelligent, innovative design, however, combined with a tangible faith in the quality of their own work, they’re making their mark. With three superyachts currently in the water bearing their credentials, and another on the way for delivery later this year, it seems inevitable that the nice guys will not, indeed, finish last. We caught up with Reeves in Monaco this year on board Delta One, who shone some light on the passion that powers the duo that is Claydon Reeves. &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24410/image/large-a009bc12b6e916273589923d08aea697.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24410"> Mike and James at SuperYacht Gallery 2017SYT:With the studio established seven years ago, tell us about the journey to Claydon Reeves.&nbsp;James and I met when we were both working at RWD, where James was largely heading up the exterior design department. Now, 2010 was probably about the worst time to start a yacht design company… but that’s when we had the great idea to start a yacht design company! We started a rather tumultuous few years where we pumped out concept work. It was this itch we had to scratch; we didn’t have a boat, we wanted to get a job, and it gave us a truly unique portfolio.&nbsp;SYT:After concentrating on establishing your name and creating your back-catalogue, what was the outcome?&nbsp;Well, we signed our first project &nbsp;- an interior on board a big sailing yacht - but I can’t tell you anything about it at all, sadly. The first real eureka moment for us was Solis built at Mulder. It was a new client coming into the new build custom yacht world, a shipyard who was stepping up massively from what they had previously done, and then us, stepping up from relative obscurity. It was the perfect storm and we won the World Superyacht Awards with her in 2016. That ultimately led to our latest project, the 36-metre Delta One. Solis came in at about 315 tonnes at 34-metres, and Delta One comes in at just under 300 tonnes. Another is also under construction for delivery in 2018.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24411/image/large-fe64b6af0cac2d0d202fa0fc99281f69.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24411"> The Mulder built Delta One SYT:Do you prefer to work on the smaller side of the spectrum?Interestingly in our careers we’ve been involved with a lot of large boats, but this size of boat is becoming more and more relevant. They are still boats; they’re not an apartment block. The connection to the sea is really evident when you’re on board. Now, you have to be really clever to set that apart from what has come before, and you have to search those little tricks to deliver something really different. On this one we have a transverse tender dock, so you get a six metre tender and a couple of jet skis in there, you get a beach club, full beam master forward, four cabins below deck, just six crew… it’s a tightly wrapped package! We like the big boats, don’t get me wrong, but there’s a real challenge with the smaller boats and we love that.&nbsp;SYT:Do you see yourself doing more of those larger projects?I hope so! We did a proposal for a 110-metre with Nobiskrug called Radiance, and it had a lot of the DNA we put into our boats. This one line sheer creating a graceful connection between bow and stern, interesting surfacing… a lot of boats now ultimately all look the same. There’s not a lot of snap to them. You need something that is intriguing, so for us, it’s this one line sheer with the concave surface above, and you get this pooling of light when it hits the hull. Our obsession with light is something that has come from our automotive background.SYT:Another sizable concept is the 90m Linea with Fincantieri. Tell us about that project.&nbsp;This came about from a meeting with Fincantieri a few years ago.&nbsp;Linea has the beauty of Italian design, the connectivity of the lines, but then a surprising sun deck sculpture on the top. It sort of straddles it like a spider, and it’s much more architectural than a usual mast - we turned it into something that crowns the boat. We also included a lot of folding balconies which we see often, but these are of an unprecedented scale. There is even one on the sundeck - I mean, why not? It’s totally feasible. There’s a little twist of playful joy in Italian design which we incorporated into the concept. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/24413/image/large-f98d6c0b90c74e9e5c0601d332cbedfd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24413">SYT:How difficult is it to really create something unique in terms of design?You can innovate in design terms by literally drawing something different, which is pretty simple… you just unhook yourself from the common thinking about yacht design. I think people are waking up to the idea that boats do not have to look the same as every other boat. If you get a client and a designer who click, these are the great moments where people redefine what is possible. Maltese Falcon, Venus… they’re game changers.&nbsp;SYT:How exactly do they change the game?I think these designs show people that it doesn’t have to be a certain way all the time. They open people’s eyes and let people know they can have their own little snowflake. This is why design innovation is important. Until people see it built and realised - like Jubilee or A - they just don’t want to do it.&nbsp;SYT:Should the superyacht industry invest more in R&amp;D?&nbsp;I think that as much as it’s necessary, people do invest in R&amp;D in this industry. The automotive industry has to invest in technological innovation because products and safety are constantly changing. Within yachts, they get a bit more efficient, a bit more effective: relatively small, incremental changes. Yachts are usually a one-off, so there isn’t as strong a need for that real boundary-pushing Tesla moment, where someone upsets the whole thing by introducing something so transformative to the industry. We can make smaller changes, and you can really innovate through design.&nbsp;SYT:Which Claydon Reeves projects are particularly unique in their design?Well, one of our main projects is the Aeroboat S6 powered by Rolls-Royce, which we created for our new brand Aeroboat. This is perhaps all of the things we’ve talked about in terms of innovation. It’s the ultimate 65’ day boat for the 21st century. People who own even the largest yachts also quite like day boats. They can be owner operated and if you just want to go out with your friends for a day, you don’t necessarily need your big yacht. The idea we’re pursuing is so far above the current standard.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24412/image/large-9cd0a089a53656a2ba4cf7adc5d87258.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24412"> Aeroboat S6's Aerostairs platform fully deployed SYT:How so?Firstly, we’ve managed to incorporate Rolls-Royce engines, transmissions and waterjets, into this boat. So we can officially market the boat as powered by Rolls-Royce, with the iconic double Rs on the boat itself, which is pretty special. We’ve raised the bar and hopefully, it will move the design language on and demonstrate that boats can be shapely, they can have sculptural spaces rather than just big spaces. Boats at 65’ are not usually made with this level of functionality or this degree of quality.&nbsp;A big part of the Aeroboat S6 has centred in the thinking that it’s lovely to come into a harbour on a beautiful boat, but when that tiny passerelle unfolds and everyone’s hanging on for dear life, it looks terrifying. On the Aeroboat S6, we have an incredibly intricate, very solid passerelle that unfolds, links up with a folding staircase, and gives you a very elegant transition off the boat.&nbsp;SYT:When will we see one hit the water?Summer 2019. It will form part of a bigger range, always with Rolls-Royce products in them. Currently, we have two V10 engines producing around 3,000 hp which equates to 48 knots which is faster than anything in its class, and we go up in size from that, offering something unique every time. We’re very excited about this project and can’t wait to see it become a reality!&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="/uploads/store/photo/23641/image/large-5807815e2703721ae6618b7a54d59cdb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23641">&nbsp;</a>This article was published in the Innovation Issue of the SuperYacht Times newspaper.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Subscribe now</a>&nbsp;to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Powered by passion: a closer look at Claydon Reeves

1. Into the Sun&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24299/image/large-d92627346d099e7fcfdb220a66a2c664.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24299">With the large flat surfaces in its design and the predominantly sunny cruising grounds that a yacht finds itself in, it is no surprise to discover that solar panels are making their way into the construction of yachts. Arcadia is one of the few builders, however, that has achieved this on a large scale and the Italian brand has become known for its environmental friendliness as a result of this, amongst others, unique feature.&nbsp;2. Construction&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/14173/image/large-1b33a88ccdc32c64d56b8d1bcd33e501.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/14173">As construction methods of vessels have improved over the years to deliver a better product in less time, so too have the construction materials themselves. The full aluminium build of Silver Fast is engineered and developed much like that of an aircraft. The final result is a sleek, lightweight and efficient contemporary yacht that is as tough as the deep sea voyagers that came before her.3. Cruising<img src="/uploads/store/photo/16836/image/large-c92982abf42e327f9daded181ebf8b9f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16836">Venturing outside the Mediterranean Sea or leaving the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean behind in search of new cruising grounds is nothing new to any experienced yachtsman or woman’s agenda. A new breed of dedicated support vessels, like Damen’s 6711, however, allows for extended cruising to take place even more impulsively and securely than ever before. The ability to cruise for extended periods with a range of additional toys and exploration craft to bring along, as well as added provisions and rotational crew members, adds great value to an owner’s experience at sea.4. Glass<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24300/image/large-6d5352a4cd7fe12330a7f355eafcb7c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24300">As glass has developed as a construction material on board yachts, so too have the field of yacht design been adapted to incorporate this diverse element in creative ways into the overall look of a yacht. Curved windows, large single-piece panes that stretch up to four metres in length and even windows below the waterline are all a possibility on board your yacht today thanks to innovations in this field.5. Hangar<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24304/image/large-35dd2cd22f7ca64519066562a58f2fe4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24304">Once reserved for naval fighter carriers, the modern large superyacht is not complete without its own helicopter storage facility. Ranging from hydraulic elevators for storage below deck, conventional garage spaces for easy maintenance or more complex solutions such as the 135-metre Project Thunder’s extending hangar seen here, the ability to now carry your own helicopter wherever you are on your yacht opens up a whole new world of discovery possibilities.&nbsp;6. Hybrid<img src="/uploads/store/photo/23606/image/large-3b125a9f7a9e4ccc27de9b180d3ee622.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23606">With owners becoming more and more environmentally conscientious by supporting clean-earth initiatives through their business and personal philanthropic backing, superyacht builders simply had to keep with the trend by exploring eco-friendlier alternatives to old-school fossil fuel power plants on yachts. Heesen answered this call with their hybrid motor yacht, Home that has the option to be powered by her two electric shaft motors alone to cruise at 9 knots with minimum noise and vibration levels while consuming only 45 litres per hour.&nbsp;7. Ownership<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24301/image/large-eeb3a6257f985c29704699b75f8c999d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24301">Mould-breaking owners have inspired change across the industry since the dawn of the yachting era, but as vessels keep increasing in size, these innovations are being felt on a much larger scale.&nbsp;&nbsp;8. Rigging<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24303/image/large-bc87ed3b9bd5f434d2e9ef4e684842d6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24303"> Over a decade after the Maltese Falcon first spread her wings, Dykstra Naval Architects’ innovative Dyna Rig is still considered one of the sailing yacht marvels of the century. Implemented on only one other vessel on earth, the Dyna Rig makes even the most modern of sailing yachts seem archaic compared to her webbed wind catchers that make the yacht appear to be moving effortlessly.9. Tenders<img src="/uploads/store/photo/9613/image/large-3e93b55a097bbb8baa7e8eda05885e4a.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/9613">The tender building scene has developed to become as customised as the motherships that carry them, and each owner today has the option to create a miniature version of their floating hotel to transfer their guests in comfort and style to shore. The 107-metre Ulysses took this philosophy to the next level with her impressive fleet of eight tenders, the largest of which is a custom built 21-metre craft designed to accommodate overnight guests and take her original owner on long-range fishing trips.&nbsp;10. Light it up<img src="/uploads/store/photo/24302/image/large-8050ad03a92d2af8349bfe6027f80163.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/24302"> Advancements in the field of light design and the ocean-proofing of these illuminating embellishments are offering an entirely new way for owners to express their unique identity through the exterior of their vessels. Although underwater lights have been around for a number of years, ship-wide LED accent lighting has slowly made its way onto some of the latest large superyachts. These colourful strips add a new personality to any yacht after the sun has set.<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="/uploads/store/photo/23641/image/large-5807815e2703721ae6618b7a54d59cdb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23641"></a> This article is featured in the Innovation Issue of the SuperYacht Times.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Subscribe now</a>&nbsp;to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.&nbsp;

Innovation in motion: Yachting’s revolutions captured in action

Another selection of five exclusive superyacht wallpapers for your mobile device is now available to download. Start your month with a new face for your phone by downloading these cool backgrounds to match your love for all things superyachts, for free!<img src="/uploads/store/photo/23517/image/large-efc1277933bad5c89620582fe1fed6a1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23517">This month’s selection includes the 72.25-metre Cloudbreak, the 119-metre M/Y A, the 85-metre Sunrays, the 90-metre Lionheart and the 52-metre Seven Sins.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/23513/image/large-086a03a811836721525c6ea6f00ea22f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23513">How it works:Step 1: click on the secure download link belowStep 2: select ‘Download everything’Step 3: transfer images to your mobile device (if downloaded on desktop computer)Step 4: set favourite image as your new wallpaperStep 5: share with friends!&nbsp;<a href="https://we.tl/flDlBeHKFH" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="/uploads/store/photo/15239/image/large-3e4070d7a5bd2fa5fa5191efd22a40eb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/15239"> </a><img src="/uploads/store/photo/23515/image/large-115f279fbec6b11205c258d6fb6cf14c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/23515">If you would like to us to feature any specific yachts in next month’s issue of Snapshots, please let us know at <a href="mailto:info@superyachttimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">info@superyachttimes.com</a>.

Snapshots: February’s superyacht wallpapers ready for download

In a fleet of over 5,000 superyachts, the numbers of yachts that are instantly recognisable are small. Traditional and practical designs reign supreme, but occasionally a yacht will come along that breaks all the boundaries. Take the Maltese Falcon, Yas, S/Y A, M/Y&nbsp;A, Ocean Pearl, Black Pearl, Venus, Nero and Adastra&nbsp;- to name but a few. Love them or hate them, there is no doubt that they play an important role in demonstrating the capabilities of design innovation and, in their own way, have an effect on the overall evolution of superyacht design processes. Whether by directly influencing other designs, pushing design constraints to their limits and forcing innovation or simply sparking the imagination, these designs should be celebrated.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/20967/image/large-71a5389ec3045bfc8b37b4bdb0b22507.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20967"> But how possible is it for innovation in superyacht designs to take place? Superyacht design is constantly evolving; with imagination and a willing owner, almost anything is possible within operational and safety constraints. That said, the creation of an innovative build will almost always come down to the owner, how much freedom they give the designer, and their willingness to do things differently. “Good projects come from good and demanding clients, and in the case of ECO, [her owner] Emilio Azcárraga was both,” says designer Martin Francis. With many owners aware that to build something ‘out there’ is a risky process, often impacting resale potential and inviting perhaps controversial opinions, playing it safe is often the more appealing route. “Very few owners are looking for innovation, I assume because of the risks that are inevitably involved,” says Francis.&nbsp;While building an iconic yacht is not for everyone, these yachts undoubtedly have had an important influence on superyacht design as a whole, with many people growing to love yachts they might initially have considered controversial. “This has been the case with Skat… People who didn’t like her at the time like her today, over time they’ve grown more comfortable with the design and they now like it,” says Espen Oeino. “What was initially considered an ugly duckling yacht has now become iconic, so perhaps iconic yachts do inspire others.”We take a look some of the most iconic and controversial superyacht designs and some of the thought processes behind their design.&nbsp;M/Y A and S/Y ADesigned by Philippe Starck, M/Y A and S/Y A turn heads wherever they go and divide opinions with their distinctive looks and futuristic designs. Both very different, albeit cut from the same cloth, M/Y A&nbsp;and S/Y A are bold statement yachts born from their owner’s desire to push the boundary of yacht design and create something unique.&nbsp;Starck was given total creative free rein when designing M/Y A after owner Andrey Melnichenko changed his mind on a commission from another designer. When Starck presented his designs, Melnichenko quickly agreed to them and the rest is history.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/20965/image/large-04c2df1c2c4c341f4231315fd2f8feb5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20965"> M/Y A&nbsp;features submarine-inspired styling and a smooth upside down hull form that leaves almost no wake even when powering at 25 knots. A favourite feature of Starck’s on board M/Y A is the cavern-like tender garage, that feels akin to a ballroom when you step into its huge spaces. With openings on three sides, this space ensures true on water living.&nbsp;On her launch, S/Y A demonstrated similar creative styling to her motor yacht sister. This radical yacht is the biggest sail-assisted motor yacht in the world and her sheer scale is colossal with masts towering over 100 metres high. A shard like sloping design, all exterior surfaces are completely flush. Seen under sail for the first time in 2017 she is a yacht like no other and has no less than eight decks!Ocean PearlDesigned by Lord Norman Foster and the team at Foster + Partners, Ocean Pearl’s design features an arched superstructure that creates a look that is a departure from traditional design. “For its unique appearance, we drew inspiration from many sources, including nature and the sleek movement of sharks and dolphins through the water – the superstructure is brought forward and the prow of the yacht is raised to evoke a similar effect,” says Angus Campbell, Senior Partner at Foster + Partners. “This is complemented by a smooth shape, which wraps the accommodation under a single skin.”&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/7545/image/large-8d770f82b495319c3871bc9a01bee6f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/7545"> The team took the concept of a traditional yacht layout and reinvented it, placing the owner's’ cabin at the bow of the boat, under the captain’s cabin with a ‘his and hers’ balcony on either side, which allowed the owners to have an unprecedented forward view from within their cabin. “We wanted to create a yacht on which 12 people can comfortably spend 10 days together at sea and Ocean Pearl has seven different external decks in a variety of scales, spaces where all guests can congregate, as well as more intimate, personal terraces,” says Campbell. “These are vital differences, so it is perhaps natural that this boat will also look strikingly different. Ironically, given she was designed to be different, Ocean Pearl is one of two identical sister ships.ECO&nbsp;On her launch, ECO (now named Zeus) represented a leap in superyacht design innovation with her striking aggressive lines, powerful performance and radically curved windows. Long, sleek and incredibly fast, she is widely hailed as a masterpiece of design. Despite this, “ECO was not recognised as ‘iconic’ for at least 15 years,” says her naval architect and designer, Martin Francis. The development of ECO’s design was a long process, and she almost wasn’t built with her owner nearly buying a secondhand build instead. “He [the owner] had faith in me as a designer but it took two and a half years before we came up with the final solution… there was no magic, just hard work.”<img src="/uploads/store/photo/20969/image/large-f051682a6cccded7d1824493db379c09.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20969"> Eco’s huge curved windows, reminiscent of French buses, were a true style statement, and help give the yacht her distinctive look, with Francis describing their development process as “a work of art.” Other controversies around her design include the positioning of the bridge on the main deck, with the owner wanting the views from the space typically occupied by the bridge for himself. Today ECO&nbsp;is as iconic as when she was launched with her speed credentials still as impressive as they were a quarter of a century ago.&nbsp;Skat15 years ago when&nbsp;Skat launched, she intentionally broke away from the norm. “I had a very specific brief from the owner, who couldn’t relate to traditional yachts, who was looking for an honest design that respected the materials it used,” says Espen Oeino, her designer. &nbsp;“The challenge the owner gave me was to use the building materials in their existing format and I remember walking away from that first meeting and thinking ‘this is going to be difficult.’” As it turned out, the owner instantly liked Oeino’s first concepts and the yacht we see today is almost identical to those first sketches.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/20966/image/large-f2bf74a7cb6ed0dc51797fb90ad46846.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/20966"> With her flat plates and profiles, grey colouring and slightly menacing appearance, “when Skat first launched there were a lot of people who were uncomfortable with the way she looked, they were generally never indifferent,” says Oeino. “People either loved or hated her and that’s fine. As a designer that is preferable to indifference!”Skat has undoubtedly had an impact on superyacht design as a whole, with her influences seen on many designs since her launch. “She was one of the very first superyachts to embrace stealth-style design and a linear design language, but today that style of the yacht is quite commonplace, so yes, perhaps she has been an inspiration to others,” says Oeino.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="/uploads/store/photo/13976/image/large-0479ea0b23567c145bad5ee46c7a49e8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/13976"> </a>This article was featured in the latest edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper. Subscribe&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">now&nbsp;</a>to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.&nbsp;

Yacht design innovation: breaking the mould 

Snapshots is a free monthly download made available by the team at SuperYacht Times for all superyacht enthusiasts, professionals, crew and owners. Five high-quality superyacht wallpapers customised to be used as your mobile wallpaper are released each month to add some daily superyacht inspiration to your on-the-go lifestyle.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/16978/image/large-25ade1bd46bb76fd358e40733a985385.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16978">&nbsp;This month’s selection includes the 123-metre Al Lusail, the 119-metre M/Y A, the 66-metre Vanish, the 70-metre Legend and the 50-metre motor yacht Ann G. All images are courtesy of the SuperYacht Times media team taken on our travels around the world.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/16979/image/large-2cd4d090a3484504abfe83956fdfbff1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16979">&nbsp;How it works:Step 1: click on the secure download link belowStep 2: select ‘Download everything’Step 3: transfer images to your mobile device (if downloaded on desktop computer)Step 4: set favourite image as your new wallpaperStep 5: share with friends!&nbsp;<a href="https://we.tl/U8lDF1VYuV" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="/uploads/store/photo/15239/image/large-3e4070d7a5bd2fa5fa5191efd22a40eb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/15239"></a> <img src="/uploads/store/photo/16977/image/large-de99e4a1f4be72893d51c7e2c6576e53.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16977">&nbsp;We hope you enjoy this month’s selection. If you would like to us to feature any specific yachts in next month’s issue of Snapshots, please let us know at <a href="mailto:info@superyachttimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">info@superyachttimes.com</a>.

Snapshots: November’s superyacht wallpaper selection out now

Visitors to Monaco this week are treated to a very special spectacle where the two industry-challenging yachts, Motor and Sailing Yacht A can be seen together in Mediterranean waters for the first time. Although vastly different vessels, both are the work of designer Philippe Starck and are owned by the same individual. These photos by Monaco-resident Raphaël Belly capture the clear styling differences between the two yachts and allow us for the first time to see the enormous 142.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4450" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sailing Yacht A142.81m (468'6&quot;)Nobiskrug2017">Sailing Yacht A</a> all set up and ready for the Mediterranean summer season.Photos by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/50105406@N02/" target="_blank">Raphaël Belly</a><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166705/image/large-85f2eb5bd880a82f24b99d434fae2b0e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166705"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166706/image/large-f5c40d012230f6f5b6a9ef1cc56eab5d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166706"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166707/image/large-29a66b6874c844e3b85cd49c153c2733.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166707"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166708/image/large-28bf81d948bfb1fbfa8cbbd97d2af2f4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166708"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166709/image/large-17f4b80f280615a768af9f4b3d7773e1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166709"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166710/image/large-f665695f5503d1289c9db885401319c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166710"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166711/image/large-ee1094191790b02bde87bf0b751efea5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166711"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166712/image/large-7d72629e3831ce9ed96e0368b920c421.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166712"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166713/image/large-de9b1cdd486102628a7d0af42f4d66b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166713"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166714/image/large-e10a4bb2bbe6dabdfd30f31a85af6c04.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166714"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166715/image/large-a2af27c530359b1546ec08ac77ba4919.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166715"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/166716/image/large-5b950fe402b393b9ef37a3935cd949e7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/166716">

In Pictures: Motor and Sailing Yachts A side by side outside Monaco

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/164465/image/large-2f41bf4a13d2d2306b86a827dcd373cd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/164465">

Mogambo in Dubai 

With Atlantis, The Palm in the background, the two modern superyachts Mogambo and M/Y A paints a picture of stark contrast against the almost ancient-like man-made city as a backdrop. Mogambo, launched at the German shipyard in 2012, takes her name after a classic adventure movie starring Clark Gable, Ava Gardner and Grace Kelly, set in the 1950s Kenya. She features a complete design by Reymond Langton Design. The 119-metre M/Y A has become a familiar site around the region having been spending time in cities such as Muscat and Abu Dhabi over the past few months.

Photo by Linus Kastner

Nobiskrug’s 74m Mogambo in Dubai

At SuperYacht Times we are renowned for our dedication to travelling the world to capture the best photos of the world’s most interesting superyachts. Here we take a look at just some of the exciting photographs we’ve taken over the course of 2016, with a behind-the-scenes insight from our photographer, Tom van Oossanen. Enjoy!

Lionheart

Benetti’s largest launch to date, the 90-metre Lionheart is pictured here off Monaco during the Monaco Yacht Show showing off her impressive curvy design and huge sundeck

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/163775/image/large-6c24993158f67f2179d1b29c28751df4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/163775">

Kismet 

As soon as we noticed the 95.2-metre Kismet heading north along the Dutch coast, we didn’t hesitate to jump in a plane and fly over the North Sea to capture this amazing superyacht in a completely different environment than her usual cruising grounds.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/163776/image/large-4ed290a675575cef627c9aff61ebc1b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/163776">

Dilbar 

Completed last year by Lürssen, the 156-metre Dilbar was captured here whilst undertaking her maiden voyage to Gibraltar. The conditions were challenging to say the least, with some serious wind and heavy seas. Taking to the skies and leaning out of the open door was worth it, however, and we managed to capture Dilbar in a way as unique as the boat herself. Her designer, Espen Oeino comments: “Dilbar is the largest motor yacht in the world by gross tonnage and one of the most complex and challenging yachts that has ever been built. I feel honored and privileged to have been part of this incredible voyage.”

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/163777/image/large-1f61a5445591d44d20c284496383b71c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/163777">

Aquarius

Feadship’s sixth launch of 2016 is the 92-metre Aquarius. Pictured here while cruising the North Sea, with exterior design by Sinot, her huge windows definitely stand out as a design feature.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/163778/image/large-736244cd82e5e526071248cfbaad72a7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/163778">

Aquijo

This amazing sailing superyacht by Vitters &amp; Oceanco, launched in 2015, was anchored off Monaco last summer. Whilst flying in helicopter over the anchorage we spotted the light on her blue hull and knew we had to capture it.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/163779/image/large-921ccb12aa4076340e1965fb743379ac.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/163779">

A 

After taking photos of the 119-metre A in a range of beautiful destinations - from Formentera to Monaco to beneath the Northern Lights in Iceland - it was unexpected that one of our favourite shoots would be in no other than the heart of the Netherlands. During her visit to Rotterdam, the light on her hull immediately caught our eye and this is certainly one of the most interesting angles of this unique superyacht.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/163780/image/large-8791230390fd34763a7e7c58a34e74a9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/163780">

Vertigo

Feadship launch number seven for 2016 is the 96-metre Vertigo. Her beautiful lines were designed by the renowned Redman Whiteley Dixon studio. Here she is at her launch in Makkum in November.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/163781/image/large-e41a948dbaec7c544547c6fee7f02d31.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/163781">

Alfa Nero 

The iconic 82-metre Alfa Nero was anchored outside Monaco during last year’s Monaco Yacht Show. There is definitely no shortage of photos of this Oceanco, so we wanted to do something a little bit different - with the help of the heli!

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/163782/image/large-8dcf3368a6ae78f84a6b3a6ef2c3044b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/163782">

Jupiter

On our first photo flight of 2017 we captured the 123m superyacht Project Jupiter from above. Her lines are unlike anything else the German shipyard Lürssen has launched to date and will certainly turn heads wherever she goes.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/163783/image/large-f8340c425d5060864540b66f48a2f1b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/163783">

For more information about photography with SuperYacht Times, or to purchase a professional photo from our extensive library, get in touch with our photographer, Tom van Oossanen at <a href="mailto:tom@superyachtcompany.com?subject=SYT%20Photography">tom@superyachtcompany.com</a>.

Behind the Lens: the best of SuperYacht Times’ photography

At SuperYacht Times, we are renowned for our dedication to not only the most accurate breaking news stories in the industry, but to travelling around the world to capture the best photos and videos of the world’s most interesting superyachts.

Here we take a look at some of our top moments of 2016, from capturing the 156-metre Dilbar on the North Sea, to spotting the unique M/Y A in beautiful Iceland, to significant launched such as Heesen’s Galactica Super Nova, Feadship’s Joy, and Lürssen’s 123-metre project Jupiter.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/11OLrnWVvMU" width="560"></iframe>

Video: The best of SYT in 2016

The SYT team is well known throughout the industry for our dedication to capturing some of the world’s most impressive superyachts in the flesh. From travelling through the Netherlands following the transport of superyachts such as Feadship’s Joy, to jumping in a plane above the North Sea to shoot Kismet on the last leg of her Atlantic crossing, to capturing unique shots of iconic vessels such as M/Y A in Iceland and the European boat shows - our photographer Tom van Oossanen is always ready to deliver clients and readers original content.

Here you can enjoy a selection of some of the best photos we’ve taken over the past few months.

 

Lionheart

During the MYS 2016 Benetti’s 90 metre superyacht Lionheart was anchored off Monaco. We didn’t hesitate to hire a helicopter to capture the only aerial shots of Lionheart at the Show.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162400/image/large-bb7c7ba18722d6f0c9c30a194a66fe13.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162400">

SilverFast

Taking photos of a superyacht as iconic as SilverFast will always be a special event. Her beautiful lines and special colour makes it a pleasure for a photographer to work with.

Here she is seen during the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix last year.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162401/image/large-5095c3efb16e580644a292545d3a6677.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162401">

Dilbar

The biggest superyacht in the world by gross tonnage, Dilbar is captured here on her maiden trip from Germany. It was a cold weekend in May when the SYT team took a car, then a ferry and then a plane to spot this beauty hitting the waves. A day later the team was again back in the plane, this time travelling to Iceland to capture another stunning vessel, M/Y A.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162402/image/large-4df509f941575558c41a1c098bfe6d56.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162402">

Kismet

Spotted by the SYT team while cruising the North Sea on a cold saturday at the end of March is this Espen Oeino designed superyacht Kismet. Her sharp lines and unique colour make her a favourite for any yachting enthusiast.

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162403/image/large-7817563a2bd442e09fbbf448539d3657.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162403">

Queen Miri

After an extensive refit at Amico in Italy, Queen Miri made her appearance during the MYS 2016 at anchor off Monaco. With her new paint job and extended hull and superstructure, she looks brand new once again. As quality photos of Queen Miri were limited,  the SYT team decided to get in the chopper and document her from every angle.

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162404/image/large-5efba9d28e70d75e53793831c9c4283a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162404">

Ulysses

This unique 107 metre explorer superyacht is a hot topic in the entire industry. With her story being followed by SYT from the early days of construction we don’t skip any chance to extend our database with unique photography of this stunning vessel. Here she was pictured from the air while helicopter operations were in full swing during MYS 2016.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162405/image/large-d8f57b35338a6b3b5eb0712fa7113258.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162405">

 

Quantum Blue

Delivered in 2015 by Lürssen is this 104 metre superyacht designed by Tim Heywood. A project closely followed by the SYT team from the very beginning, we again jumped into the helicopter during the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix to see her from every angle possible. A truly original series of photos was taken by SYT photographer, Tom van Oossanen.

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162406/image/large-dc637de81749515186fdaeb16013eaf2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162406">

 

A

Maybe the most photographed superyacht on the planet is the 119 metre M/Y A, built by Blohm &amp; Voss. Her exterior design is one of a kind and with her currently being up for sale, the interior has finally been released to the industry as well. SYT travelled to many locations to see her, Iceland, Formentera, Monaco, Amsterdam and Rotterdam and took photos of her of every angle which have been shared on social media worldwide.

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162407/image/large-e70254a75a43c60c5d4c9e35a117e3be.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162407">

 

For more information about photography with SuperYacht Times, contact Tom directly at <a href="mailto:tom@superyachtcompany.com" target="_blank">tom@superyachtcompany.com</a> or +31 (0) 657 3193 79. Tom will also be present alongside the rest of the SYT team at the upcoming edition of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Get in touch to arrange a meeting and hear more.

Vantage Point: SYT’s best superyacht photography

SYT can exclusively showcase the latest video footage of the 75 metre Blohm &amp; Voss built Enigma, currently listed for sale with Edmiston.

Photos by Jeff Brown / Breed Media

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BreBuNYswco" width="560"></iframe>

 

Originally delivered in 1991, Enigma is one of the most iconic yachts of the modern superyacht age. With her instantly recognisable convex glass and her warship inspired lines, Enigma is capable of 35 knots, with diesel and gas turbine engines producing 28,500hp. Equally, at 18 knots she can deliver a range of over 4000 miles.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162134/image/large-192608d7618bfeaf21ae1987533a3091.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162134">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162135/image/large-0fe7d2af579d26d5d34f872f4e8a6701.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162135">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162136/image/large-50b9d901eb5c71ce67f2db9cc4dd28fb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162136">

 

CEO at Edmiston, Jamie Edmiston, comments: “Alongside the likes of Pelorus, Limitless and A, Enigma is undoubtedly one of the defining yachts of the last 25 years. Her original owner was Mexican television tycoon Emilio Azcarraga, she was then bought by Larry Ellison who invested heavily in updating and maintaining her at the very highest level. Her current owner has continued to operate Enigma to these same exacting standards.

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162137/image/large-b3f4a2a001c81a0a2382d588819938d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162137">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162138/image/large-3c064ac11d4378993f211d22efbff0dd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162138">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162139/image/large-6a9c37b8615db4559da328c750e69e29.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162139">

Enigma is offered for sale with Edmiston with an asking price of €47,500,000. Viewings at the Monaco Yacht Show will be strictly by appointment only. To make an enquiry, head to Edmiston <a href="http://www.edmiston.com/luxury-yachts-for-sale/enigma-3874/" target="_blank">here</a>.

Exclusive: new video of 75m superyacht Enigma

<div>
	The month of August saw the SuperYacht Times team travel across Europe to bring you the latest news and cover some of the largest yachting events all the while capturing it in immaculate detail. Here we recap just some of the most exciting happenings at SuperYacht Company this month.
	 

	Motor Yacht A visits Rotterdam and Amsterdam
	 

	The 119 metre superyacht A is currently in the Netherlands, providing Photographer Tom van Oossanen, Online Editor Charl van Rooy and Database Manager, Aurelien Herman, the opportunity to take some fantastic, unique shots not only in Rotterdam, but also in our home city of Amsterdam.
	 

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162705/image/large-71238d18b3740d1d7280ec7e412510a2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162705">

	 

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162706/image/large-d4f0cdcdce754f60199d5c1743c07202.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162706">

	 

	Visit to Fast &amp; Furious at Damen
	  

	Tom and Charl also visited Damen to see the latest Yacht Support Vessel, the 55 metre Fast and Furious. She is the ninth Yacht Support vessel delivered or currently under construction with the Dutch brand and will make her debut in Monaco at the end of the month.

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162707/image/large-26fdcf9a84263b7a615924da2da87f7d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162707">

	 

	 

	Yacht spotting in Beaulieu Sur Mer and Calvi, Corsica
	 

	Tom continued his jetset lifestyle with another yacht spotting trip in the Med, where he captured two impressive superyachts: Valerie off Beaulieu Sur Mer, as well as Albatross in Calvi.

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162708/image/large-25ed567dd5a726978d70bd806429f5bb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162708">

	 

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162709/image/large-e3ba7b0275259e8dcf71fcbb82cfa6cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162709">

	 

	SuperYacht iQ 2016 Market Report
	 

	We’re excited to announce that after years of hard work and preparation, the very first SuperYacht iQ 2016 Market Report is ready to be published. <a href="http://www.superyachtiq.com/order-superyacht-iq-2016-report/superyacht-iq-2016-marketreport" target="_blank">Order your copy</a> now and witness the first step to setting new standards for the superyacht industry.

	<a href="http://www.superyachtiq.com/order-superyacht-iq-2016-report/superyacht-iq-2016-marketreport" target="_blank"><img alt="[no-lb]" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162710/image/large-e3a1e4d90180339dc148df264e0b53f5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162710"></a>

	Largest ever SuperYacht Times newspaper published 

	We also published the largest ever edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper. The Monaco edition marks our tenth issue, and features compelling interviews and features with some of the most influential players in the business. <a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe now</a> to receive your copy directly to your door.

	 

	<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank"><img alt="[no-lb]" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/162711/image/large-cc4f7c91bf9fe6517cbe274453a655a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/162711"></a>

	 

	 

	SuperYacht Company team day
	 

	With a rapidly expanding team including the addition of Sales Manager, Sofia Murashova, Database Manager, Aurelien Herman, and HR Manager, Helen Haacke - all this year - SYC enjoyed a team building day in Amsterdam.
	 
	September will be a busy month for the entire industry, and at SuperYacht Company this will be no exception. Our sales, editorial and intelligence teams will be present at both the Cannes and Monaco yacht shows this month. To schedule a meeting contact Charl van Rooy at <a href="mailto:charl@superyachtcompany.com" target="_blank">charl@superyachtcompany.com</a> or <a href="mailto:sales@superyachtcompany.com" target="_blank">sales@superyachtcompany.com</a>.</div>

<div> </div>

On Scene: SYT August recap

<div>
	The past few months have seen the 119-metre A cover great distances in her pursuit of some of the most off-the-beaten-track superyacht destinations. The 2008-built Blohm + Voss superyacht has been spotted in areas ranging from the French Riviera to the Nordic ice fjords. Here we take a look at some of the notable destinations visited by the odd-looking yacht over the past summer season.

	 

	Valetta, Malta

	In November 2015 A arrives at Palumbo Shipyard Malta for a winter period in the dry docks. A new coat of glistening white paint would prepare her for a busy summer season of cruising.

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161785/image/large-d78ab796b76e322966851e805f97e467.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161785">

	 

	Reykjavik, Iceland

	A’s summer season kicked off on a high when the Philippe Starck-designed yacht arrived in Iceland in April. Here she spent nearly a month cruising the remote fjords and icy waters around the island. SYT traveled to the capital of Reykjavik to capture her anchored amongst the peaceful and untouched surroundings.

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161786/image/large-8b90ff77017d298566131a36e5f12abd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161786">

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161787/image/large-e446be744f433c5b1ccf6fa3a07bd81d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161787">

	 

	Monte Carlo, Monaco

	The following month A was back in more superyacht-suited regions and made an appearance at the 2016 Monaco Grand Prix where she was anchored off Monte Carlo together with a field of other high-profile superyachts. SYT took to the sky to bring you a bird’s eye view of the event.

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161788/image/large-be25bdf20ef2392e5e0f39236b1c370e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161788">

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161789/image/large-fc0336398eb630cdfa56be71d19ed4c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161789">

	 

	Rotterdam, the Netherlands

	The past week saw A return to northern Europe where she made brief calls to ports in Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. Amongst these was the hip city of Rotterdam. A blended in seamlessly with the surrounding architecture and tying up alongside the historic headquarters of the world famous Holland America cruise line could not have been more fitting. 

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161790/image/large-50415c48e12207511cf7225dc4250606.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161790">

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161791/image/large-f51549a5d07c0a523c7805f5a7f52f4a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161791">

	 

	Kiel, Germany

	A then made history by traveling up the Kiel canal to meet her new sister, Sailing Yacht A, that is currently being completed in the German town. The visit gave us a first impression of what it might be seeing these two iconic vessels cruising side by side in the near future.

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161792/image/large-2cad2cc3e35f1b2673449fc6dacaeef5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161792">

	 

	Amsterdam, the Netherlands

	A became the largest yacht to ever moor in the Dutch capital when she arrived in the centre of Amsterdam yesterday on her second ever visit to Dutch waters.

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161793/image/large-cd190020f612a39978f4d11ee80c75e4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161793">

	<div>
		<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161794/image/large-f0f75846bbd5eac8c272e104a709c7aa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161794">
	</div>
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Cruising Special: The adventures of M/Y A

Photos by Andreas Schuster / Flycam Kiel

Seen here for the first time side by side are the two superyachts known simply as A. These exclusive images show Motor Yacht and Sailing Yacht A alongside in the German town of Kiel where the world’s largest private sailing yacht is currently being completed.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161729/image/large-6398f0a1f022d858bdbccdd0c7e7b321.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161729">

Sailing Yacht A has been in the process of being uncovered for the last few weeks following a complete repaint of her exterior. The new deep silver paint job is in stark contrast to the pearl white exterior the yacht was seen conducting her initial sea trial phase under, last year.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161730/image/large-979e77e058b72b7cf946b12c0509ae70.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161730">

In September last year it was confirmed that superyacht owner Andrey Melnichenko is the man behind the enormous 142.8-metre sailing yacht project, and is well known as the owner of the 119-metre Motor Yacht A.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161731/image/large-60a30ceccc0489fd6983b89429b0b466.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161731">

Photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/104700428@N06/" target="_blank">Thomas Hartmann</a>

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161732/image/large-0b1ee8645cd5cccafdcad0902e28785b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161732">

The location of Motor Yacht and Sailing Yacht A in Kiel, Germany earlier today - © Marinetraffic.com

Live from Kiel: Superyachts ‘A’ meet in Germany

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	SuperYacht Times’ unprecedented coverage of the 119-metre Motor Yacht A spending time in some of the coolest locations around the world, continues. The team travelled to the Dutch metropolis of Rotterdam to capture a yacht as cool and hip as the city itself. A blended in seamlessly with the surrounding architecture and tying up alongside the historic headquarters of the world famous Holland America cruise line could not have been more fitting. Enjoy these images of her taken by our own Tom van Oossanen.

	<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161638/image/large-7bfc8ae4ba476892171d1b0dcbb04701.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161638">
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<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161639/image/large-e3f152d4563e977679877397dddcc32a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161639">

 

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161640/image/large-71c163b93215eb19ee9f2a64862a684b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161640">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161641/image/large-b8234bf0ef192476af738124b578f4a8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161641">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161642/image/large-77528c79a87bd45e5dee6df9d78ff835.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161642">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161643/image/large-67e4b34d053e568cbbde13fe37772820.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161643">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161644/image/large-272ead4bb7d007a427c28357553edcf5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161644">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161645/image/large-660f07ce4a7a9c46543b9ce83a5866f3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161645">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161646/image/large-1810a597e8960df6925791217587b145.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161646">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161647/image/large-a33b3bd9b277f67af115ad31fe493d87.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161647">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/161648/image/large-048f90dfacf9b96de8d888b3578a6d2d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/161648">

In Pictures: Motor Yacht A in Rotterdam

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/159984/image/large-ee91eb89623d98402d4f8aaee219078f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/159984">

Superyacht A in Akureyri, Iceland

The iconic 119 metre superyacht A, built by German shipyard Blohm &amp; Voss in 2008 is currently spending time around the Nordic island of Iceland. Her Philippe Strack design has long since been an industry-wide topic met with mixed opinions about the end result. She is powered by two 6,035hp MAN diesel engines propelling her to speeds up to 23 knots. She boasts an incredible range of 4250nm while maintaining her top speed. Her owner has since commissioned a second yacht, named Sailing Yacht A. The new yacht measures 142.8 metres in length with three towering carbon fibre masts which will assist propelling the vessel.

Photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/126184405@N08/" target="_blank">Adalsteinn Svan Hjelm</a>

Superyacht A in Akureyri

The 119 metre Blohm &amp; Voss built superyacht A is currently hauled out at Palumbo Shipyard where the entire yacht will be covered and prepared for a new coat of paint. Other routine maintenance works will be performed over the winter period. Superyact A’s stern section was re-sprayed last year in New Zealand.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157384/image/large-e71a8536d7b53625490127e8b81cbdde.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157384"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157385/image/large-93a15c14aa4b07749e4d3e2900ce4734.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157385">In addition to A, Palumbo SuperYachts reports that a fleet of other yachts visited their facilities in Malta and Marseilles over the past season and will be making use of their refit services during the winter months. Maltes Falcon for instance is back in Malta where she will be prepared for her 10 year Lloyds survey.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157386/image/large-8840ee34f9f53c92aa86a35e5088ae1f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157386">At Palumbo’s ITM shipyard in Marseille, business has been good over the past season with visits from the 70m Skat, 55m Steel, 60m Slipstream and 71m Titania, who is currently in Abu Dhabi. The 74 metre CRN superyacht Yalla and 78 metre Royal Denship Pegasus VIII too made use of the yard’s facilities and expertise recently. The facility located in the south of France has become very popular thanks to its four dry docks ranging from 80 to 126 metres in length, and an overall surface of 1200 square metres.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157387/image/large-a73114721e8d82b9840a078ec9acb727.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157387">Palumbo reports that significant resources are going into the development of their facilities in Marseilles and Malta to make the experience more attractive for crew. Crew lounges, barbeque areas, gymnasiums and games rooms will soon be a feature crew can look forward to at the Marseille sfacility, as is already the case in Malta.By Charl van Rooy

Superyacht A hauled out in Malta

Following a busy summer season many yachts have now moved onto more suitable cruising grounds, while some have chosen to take some much needed down-time in shipyards where crew will no doubt work hard at getting their yachts back in shape. In the following feature we take a look at some of the latest, coolest and largest yachts in the world and where they are currently located.Lady Lara in Oslo<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157236/image/large-3be1875d35390a31bafc1bf5fcacfffa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157236">Lady Lara has left Lürssen’s Rendsburg facility in Germany earlier this week and is now moored in downtown Olso, Norway. The yacht was launched in April this year and embarked on her sea trials in July. Y.CO managed the build throughout and oversaw the past month’s final outfitting leading up to the delivery. The vessel’s interior and exterior was designed by Reymond Langton Design. Her exterior shape features grand sweeping curves and elegant proportions that resembles a feminine image, combined with masculine features such as defined lines and sculpted surfaces. Following her crew training trip in Norway, Lady Lara is expected to cross the Atlantic to cruise the winter season between Florida, the Bahamas and the Eastern Caribbean IslandsA in Malta<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157237/image/large-2b80b19c418b6243c3186eef858cb48c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157237">The iconic 119 metre superyacht A was built by German shipyard Blohm &amp; Voss and launched in 2008 at their facility in Kiel. Her Philippe Strack design has long since been an industry-wide topic met with mixed opinions about the end result. She is powered by two 6,035hp MAN diesel engines propelling her to speeds up to 23 knots. She boasts an incredible range of 4250nm while maintaining her top speed. She has recently been hauled out for end-of-season maintenance works at the Palumbo Superyacht shipyard in Malta.Venus in West Palm Beach<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157238/image/large-72a4764e760434cadf3dbfd0e6dfb689.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157238">Superyacht Venus, the 78 metre Feadship that was designed by Philippe Starck for the late Steve Jobs, has arrived in the USA following a 2 month maintenance period in La Ciotat, France, and is currently docked at the Rybovich yard in West Palm Beach. She is fitted with large cabin windows to fill the inside with an abundance of natural light, whilst in the main living area are forty feet long and ten feet high walls of glass further enhance a light and airy ambience for the total of 12 guests that she comfortably accommodates.Yas in Barcelona<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157239/image/large-2377c13b7a7e1a25b509ac6022edc4b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157239">Superyacht Yas has an interesting background story, and started out as a Dutch naval vessel, which was then later moved to Abu Dhabi where she was transformed by the ADM Shipyard. She features an interior by Pierrejean Studio in France, who also designed her exterior. She was spotted spending time on the <a href="#managed-by-application" target="_blank" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/44654">French Riviera</a> this past summer season and has since been spending time in Barcelona for maintenance works.Eclipse in Hamburg<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157240/image/large-8e96574d00ed51f9b5095df5a26e135b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157240">The world’s second largest yacht, Eclipse, is currently hauled at the German shipyard Blohm &amp; Voss where she is undergoing maintenance and rebuild work. The yacht has seen a very busy summer cruising season with destinations ranging from Norway, Scotland, Turkey and Palma de Mallorca and will spend the next few winter months at her birthplace according to local news sources. The huge yacht, owned by a well known Russian businessman, accommodates 36 guests and can carry up to 100 crew members. Some of Eclipse’s most impressive features include a massive 200m² swim platform, a large pool on the main aft deck and two helicopter landing pads.Kismet in Cabo San Lucas<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157241/image/large-8be40e17a9543d57ffc36eae3cb45ffa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157241">Superyacht Kismet became the largest yacht to enter Marina de CSL in the Mexican coastal town of Cabo San Lucas when she arrived here over a week ago. Certainly one of the German shipyard’s most recognizable creations, the 95m Espen Oeino designed yacht was launched in July 2014 and is characterised by her glistening golden exterior and striking Jaguar figurehead on the bow. She is currently exploring the west coast of Mexico.Ocean Victory in Malaysia<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157242/image/large-768052af6a9923b912d37f0825d38b65.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157242">Completed by Fincantieri Yachts in 2014, Ocean Victory is designed by renowned designer Espen Oeino with interior spaces created by the late Alberto Pinto together with Sessa Romboli. As with many other yachts of this size, Ocean Victory is packed with guest-pleasing features such as 6 pools spread out over her 7 decks, an internal floodable dock to house her 14 metre tender, and two heli pads. The yacht’s owner is known to have owned a 75 metre Feadship also named Ocean Victory, which is now called Ebony Shine. She has been seen spending time in Malaysia over the past few weeks.Octopus in Malaga<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157243/image/large-632714342b22b45bfd8b1d97e5893df9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157243">Octopus was built by Lürssen in 2003 to a design of Espen Oeino International and features an interior by Jonathan Quinn Barnett. She has a cruising speed of 17 and a top speed of 20 knots. Octopus has a large swimming pool on her bridge deck, a cinema, a basketball court, two helipads and two mini submarines. She is currently moored in the Spanish city of Malaga on the Costa del Sol.Al Said in Muscat<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157244/image/large-9b473ad54d5d5d0987c42d87c868cbbe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157244">Built by Lürssen in Germany under the project name Sunflower, Al Said was delivered in 2008 to her owner, the ruler of Oman. Currently listed as the 4th largest yacht in the world, it is interesting that Al Said is in fact far larger than the three yachts which surpass her in length, with a total volume of 15,850 tons. She is also one of the most powerful yachts in the fleet, with a total of 16,399 kilowatts. The yacht's exterior is designed by Espen Oeino, with an interior by Redman Whiteley Dixon. She is currently moored in her home berth in Muscat, Doha.Quattroelle in Dubai<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157245/image/large-3760c6f982efaae2f643d9c310f77367.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157245">Measuring 86.11 metres in length, pictured here in Dubai is Quattroelle, built by the German shipyard Lürssen Yachts in 2013 with both interior and exterior design by Nuvolari &amp; Lenard - the first superyacht the brand has designed for the shipyard. The name Quattroelle is Italian for "4 times the letter L" and the 4 L's representing Love, Life, Liberty and Luxury. On board she accommodates up to 12 guests, hosted in absolute style and luxury over six spacious decks. A crew of 28 are also accommodated for.By Charl van Rooy

Top 10 coolest superyachts in their current locations

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/157107/image/large-050b1c6fa954ed6132271d2808a87c6c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/157107">Superyacht A in VeniceThe iconic 119 metre superyacht A was built by German shipyard Blohm &amp; Voss and launched in 2008 at their facility in Kiel. Her Philippe Strack design has long since been an industry-wide topic met with mixed opinions about the end result. She is powered by two 6,035hp MAN diesel engines propelling her to speeds up to 23 knots. She boasts an incredible range of 4250nm while maintaining her top speed. A is currently underway cruising past Sicily today after spending some time in Turkey recently. Her owner has since commissioned his second yacht, named Sailing Yacht A. The new yacht measures 142.8 metres in length with three towering carbon fibre masts which will help assist the vessel.By Charl van Rooy, photo by<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/47726343@N00/" target="_blank"> Marvin von Almen </a>

The 119m superyacht A moored in Venice

Incredible drone footage displaying the 142.8m Sailing Yacht A underway in the waters surrounding Kiel in Germany have surfaced, revealing the giant sail-assisted motor yacht making its way under power while being closely watched by a following tug boat.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_ZZpaq8I8_Q" width="560"></iframe>The yacht is still spending her time at the Nobiskrug shipyard with brief voyages out into the protected waters outside Kiel for regular tests. The yacht is yet to set sail and cruise as a sail-assisted motor yacht, having so far only made use of her mechanical propulsion systems.It has been over a month since it was confirmed that Sailing Yacht A has been built for Russian yachtsman Andrey Melnichenko, owner of the iconic motor yacht A. Read all about Sailing Yacht A’s known details <a href="#managed-by-application" target="_blank" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/44776">here</a>.By Charl van Rooy

Drone footage of Sailing Yacht A on sea trials

New exclusive photos showing Sailing Yacht A with all three masts in place have surfaced, indicating that the attachment of the booms are likely to follow next. The new images leave room for speculation as to what on board features Sailing Yacht A will exactly have. Sailing Yacht A is currnelty underconstruction at the Nobiskrug shipyard in Kiel, Germany. Just last month the project was confirmed as the 142.8m Sailing Yacht A, built for visionary owner Andrey Melnichenko, owner of the iconic 119m superyacht A.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156120/image/large-1f2020fe79b1238a8c8d90f504457740.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156120">Sailing Yacht A will be powered using a custom diesel-electric propulsion system, utilizing two MTU 3,600kW diesel engines in tandem with two 4,300kW electric motors that are linked to a set of adjustable pitch propellers. This will allow her to reach an expected cruising speed under power of 16 knots with a range of 5,320nm and a top speed of 21 knots. Secondary propulsion comes from her 3 freestanding carbon fibre masts, constructed by Magma structures and delivered to the project in June this year. Delivery of the yacht is expected in 2016.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156121/image/large-c14b06b17936ed672fcf83f51bdd99a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156121">By Charl van Rooy, photo by Carl Groll / <a href="http://www.theyachtphoto.com/" target="_blank">TheYachtPhoto.com</a>

Update: Sailing Yacht A mast-setup nearly complete

The progress on the 142.81m super sailing yacht under construction at the Nobiskrug shipyard in Germany has been well documented here on SYT. The vessel has been confirmed as Sailing Yacht A; a new creation designed for visionary owner Andrey Melnichenko. As with his current superyacht, Motor Yacht A, Sailing Yacht A is set to captivate with her revolutionary style, on board features and state of the art cruising capabilities.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155959/image/large-9facef3cea012dbab1cae72e14388844.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155959">©Pascal Deis / Starck NetworkMelnichenko once again drafted Philippe Starck, the man behind Motor Yacht A’s iconic lines, to realise a revolutionary design. French designer Jacques Garcia was selected to design Sailing Yacht A after, in 2008, a team of 8 candidates were assembled to submit their best concepts for what would become the world’s most advanced sail-assisted motor vessel. The owner decided to make a change in direction in 2012 following concerns over design development. Some design cues from Motor Yacht A made their way over to sailing yacht A’s exterior, such as the iconic flush oval shaped side windows.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155960/image/large-d04fd14f8e5ab602df230d6a600aee3a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155960">©Pascal Deis / Starck NetworkClassed as a sail-assisted motor yacht (100A1 Passenger Ship Sail Assisted, Yacht Mono G6, LMC UMS), Sailing Yacht A is pushing the boundaries simply by her classification standards.Sailing Yacht A will be powered using a custom diesel-electric propulsion system, utilizing two MTU 3,600kW diesel engines in tandem with two 4,300kW electric motors that are linked to a set of adjustable pitch propellers. This will allow her to reach an expected cruising speed under power of 16 knots with a range of 5,320nm and a top speed of 21 knots. Secondary propulsion comes from her 3 freestanding carbon fibre masts, constructed by Magma structures and delivered to the project in June this year, and was stepped yesterday at the yard in Kiel, as seen in these exclusive images.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155961/image/large-6d9ef162d5f5eff26766d6a3ff022424.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155961">Making sure the vessel operates seamlessly under power and with her 4500+ sqm of sails deployed, is Dutch naval architecture company Dykstra Naval Architects, who worked closely with the engineering team of the Nobiskrug shipyard. Dykstra are also behind the design of the three masts, able to withstand bending loads of more than 40Mn; twice that of a Boeing Dreamliner wing.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155962/image/large-593825554dca9836f343527752222d56.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155962">At 142.81 metres, Sailing Yacht A’s beam of 24.88 calculates an overall gross tonnage of 12,700, with a fixed keel reaching 8 metres below the waterline. Sailing Yacht A houses a total of 8 decks, and can accommodate a helicopter on the aft section on deck six. A total of 54 crew members are accommodated for.The project is set to be delivered in 2016.By Charl van Rooy, photos by Olaf Eggert / <a href="http://www.theyachtphoto.com/" target="_blank">TheYachtPhoto.com</a>

Revealed: Sailing Yacht A 

The iconic 119 metre superyacht A is enjoying a busy summer off the western coast of Italy, and was recently captured anchored off the prestigious Amalfi caost near Positano. Completed at German shipyard by Blohm &amp; Voss in 2008 and designed by Philippe Starck, A has become known for her futuristic styling and sharp reverse bow. These images captures here radical shape perfectly, with a sneak peek into her large tender bay.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155898/image/large-c1fbaf8149d6fe8c5782ae36aeffba4b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155898"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155899/image/large-845f982ec9c82b6bec15ae8598a3442b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155899"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155900/image/large-4093c60a83d4ac2fb401a2385f9a9ff9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155900"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155901/image/large-15d4a688604aea307aef871ee045d2ce.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155901"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155902/image/large-c07c5cdb61eb36f06e9e35752803d0b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155902"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155903/image/large-95c55d90d7f20deed2b6f0d7bfcc0fbf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155903"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155904/image/large-6dc01d54c7431a286d86af4cbc45ab98.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155904"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155905/image/large-4b871470c6fc43f692ebbd8c818819c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155905">Photos by Mattia Ruocco

In Pictures: 119m superyacht A in Positano 

Recently spotted outside the small Italian fishing village of Portofino, is the iconic superyacht A. Completed at German shipyard by Blohm &amp; Voss in 2008 and designed by Philippe Starck, A has become known for her futuristic styling and sharp reverse bow. Here you can get a glimpse of what is on offer in terms of exterior amenities on board.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WC7oEywK02k" width="560"></iframe>By Charl van Rooy

Drone footage of 119 metre superyacht A

Few yachts are shrouded in so much secrecy as project White Pearl, the 140m+ sailing superyacht, under construction at Nobiskrug in Kiel. The yard has started to slowly dismantle the shed in which she is being built, giving us the first glimpse of this radical new yacht.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/153146/image/large-0b5758024753924276c453ce59023ca7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/153146">Although unconfirmed, we believe White Pearl is the replacement yacht for the owner of A. Judging by the windows in the yacht's hull, which are almost identical to those on A, we think this is a safe assumption.Details are still pretty much unknown, although we believe she has a gross tonnage of 10,000 tons.By Maarten Janssen, photo by Olaf Eggert/TheYachtPhoto.com

140m+ Metre Project White Pearl emerges

Unfortunately, as we predicted the drone video of superyacht Lionheart, which we published earlier this week, has already been removed from Youtube. Instead, we can now show you this drone video of superyacht A, one of the most extraordinary superyachts ever delivered. We can tell you all about her special features, but in this case, we rather let the video speak for itself!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/mX4AN1FdwAI" width="560"></iframe>

Drone video of the 119 metre superyacht A

The Top 100 largest superyachts in the world

Zaha Hadid’s collaboration to design a new superyacht with the renowned Hamburg-based shipbuilders Blohm+Voss has received remarkable interest from yachting enthusiasts throughout the Asia Pacific.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/147747/image/large-f7ac3cc7f4eec6ab523ba0286f0aa73b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/147747">To celebrate the collaboration, Zaha Hadid and Herbert Aly, CEO and Managing Partner of Blohm+Voss, joined guests from across the region at the SEVVA Club, Hong Kong yesterday evening.Based around the sculptural form of a master prototype conceived for a 128m yacht, The Unique Circle Yachts by Zaha Hadid Architects for Blohm+Voss is a family of five individual 90m yachts that creatively explore the design philosophies of the master prototype within the technical requirements of a fully-engineered yacht design.The overall design is informed by fluid dynamics and underwater ecosystems, with hydrodynamic research informing the design of the hull. The exoskeleton structure of the upper section is an interwoven network of supports that vary in thickness and lend a natural aesthetic to the yacht’s external appearance; evoking the organic structural systems found in natural marine formations. This exoskeleton connects the various levels and decks of the ship seamlessly via expressive diagonals. Whereas traditional yacht designs adhere to a strict horizontal order, Hadid has created an intense connectivity between the various decks and elements of the design. The fluid design language of the master prototype has been applied to subsequent variations of the Unique Circle Yachts 90m yacht concepts, creating a coherent design with the highest correlation between the various design options.The 90m JAZZ yacht is the first of the five Unique Circle Yachts that has been technically specified and detailed by the naval architects at Blohm+Voss. Its lineage from the 128m master prototype is evident, with further technical refinements to address the specifications required for ocean crossings.In addition to JAZZ, four further 90m yachts have been designed to fulfil the different requirements and individual requests of their designated owners. Each design will vary in layout according to the owner’s preferences.The design process was very much a collaborative one, with Blohm+Voss and ZHA working together to address the practical challenges of designing a yacht while remaining true to the strong iterative design language of the master prototype. The resulting designs are the synergy of Hadid’s design vision and the technical expertise of Blohm+Voss, allowing a flexibility and customisation in the eventual design of the yacht.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/147748/image/large-59b4fd82205e8066c2a0040b9c48deac.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/147748">“As a dynamic object that moves in dynamic environments, the design of a yacht must incorporate additional parameters beyond those for architecture – which all become much more extreme on water. Each yacht is an engineered platform that integrates specific hydrodynamic and structural demands together with the highest levels of comfort, spatial quality and safety.” explained Zaha Hadid.Blohm+Voss has the proven experience, the in-house technical expertise, and the capacities to offer tailor-made solutions for the most demanding buyers in the superyacht market. The naval architects of Blohm+Voss are forever pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation. In recent years Blohm+Voss has built many of the world’s most prestigious mega yachts. These include the groundbreaking 394-foot “A “designed by Philippe Starck , the “Eclipse”, designed by Terrence Disdale, which at 533 feet (162.5 m) is the world's second largest private yacht. Other Blohm + Voss superyacht projects include, the “Mayan Queen IV” and the “Palladium”.Dr. Herbert Aly, CEO and Managing Partner of Blohm+Voss says: “On an aesthetic level a superyacht is a great design task as everything is customised down to the last detail. A superyacht is by definition an exercise in total design, where every detail is looked at with attention and refinement. In the past, in the era of steam liners, there has been an attempt of utilising ship building elements in architecture. Zaha Hadid and her team have taken this ethos and created a bold new vision and a new benchmark in the design of superyachts."Aly adds: “The idea of the Unique Circle Yachts allows for variation of a genotype and its phenotypes, offering a range of possible solutions based on an cognate platform. As a result Zaha Hadid’s design is malleable to suit the very individual wishes and needs of a potential customer which lies at the heart of Blohm+Voss’ approach to yacht design. The strength of the design lies not just in its functionality and form, but also its effortless adaptability.”<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/147749/image/large-0a17b0dcac71387eab867f546fd7664a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/147749">Zaha Hadid Architects and Blohm+Voss have transformed yacht design; creating an innovative concept and developing this vision into a fully seaworthy design that offers dynamic new possibilities for naval architecture.Blohm+Voss +49 40 3119 1200 <a href="mailto:Yachtsales@blohmvoss.com?subject=B%20%26%20V%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">Yachtsales@blohmvoss.com</a> <a href="http://www.blohmvossyachts.com/" target="_blank">www.blohmvossyachts.com</a> Zaha Hadid Architects +44 20 7253 5147 <a href="http://www.zaha-hadid.com">www.zaha-hadid.com</a>

Zaha Hadid designed Superyacht for Blohm+Voss presented in Hong Kong

“Unlike Europe, marinas in Asia are more about safe berthing for your vessel as opposed to a destination in its own right”, reports Captain Nick Coombes, head of Asia Pacific Superyachts Malaysia based on Langkawi Island.“Very few marinas are located in popular tourist areas in Asia Pacific regions - thus the idea of sitting on your yacht and watching the world watch you, is not an option. As a result most Superyacht visitors and charters here never see a marina, but instead spend their entire journey cruising from beautiful anchorage to beautiful anchorage”, says Captain Nick; “It is a lot more about exploring the natural splendor of South East Asia, than cruising from town to town.”<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/147318/image/large-f59e993582b2eb0d176eb37dc9e99287.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/147318"> If you are interested in marinas in Asia Pacific - there are more options now, reflecting the rising affluence of Asia. “There are now world-class marinas and accommodation in nearly every sailing region”, notes Captain Nick: “There’s Phuket, providing hundreds of berths for everything from Superyachts to small cruisers. To the south Malaysia’s Langkawi Island is a popular winter destination as are the chain of facilities that run down the Malacca Straits to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and heading east into the vast Gulf of Thailand. And, coming on board with APS in 2013, is New Zealand, which can boast of excellent marinas and anchorage options in the Pacific region".There’s no doubt Superyachts are being challenged in finding places to stay as the world's fleet of Superyachts has ballooned in the past five years by 25 percent, to around 4,600, according to Marina Projects, a U.K. consultancy firm as excerpted from an article by Jason Chow in the Wall Street Journal Asia: “Owners of the world’s Superyachts are running into a new problem as they set sail across the crowded seas: finding a place to park. In the Mediterranean, which is where most of the yachts are located, there are an estimated 3,000 superyacht berths. Shortages in some countries mean opportunity for other aspiring yachting centers. But will boat owners want to broaden their horizons?”For those interested, Asia Pacific Superyachts New Zealand director Jeanette Tobin talks about specific places where Superyachts go and the berths she puts their boats onto in Auckland when they visit New Zealand. Tobin reports, “Two marinas for Superyachts, Viaduct Harbour Marina and Silo Superyacht Marina, are located in downtown Auckland and have full power and water. Vessels can clear customs and biosecurity in/out from both marinas and there’s easy access to all local contractors, chandleries, supermarkets and Auckland’s leading restaurants and bars.” “Viaduct Harbour Marina in downtown Auckland was built for the 2000 Americas Cup and is surrounded by leading bars &amp; restaurants. Viaduct provides: 1 x 60m side-to berth; 4 x 50m berths; 4 x 40m berths; 8 x 30m berths; and full power &amp; water facilities + Wi-Fi”, Tobin adds.500m west of the Viaduct Marina in the newly developed Beaumont Quarter is the Silo Superyacht Marina, a new facility built to cope with the growing demand from larger vessels and an area where new bars and restaurants have opened. Viaduct and Silo Marinas are near Auckland’s central business district where visitors can enjoy the entertainment planned throughout the summer which includes outdoor movie theatres, wine and food festivals, seafood festivals, music concerts plus much more… offering crew a real taste of New Zealand.Silo Marina announced it has increased its capacity to accommodate vessels. Jeanette notes Silo currently has M/Y’s “A”, Nahlin and Pacific enjoying the facilities. Construction has seen a new 90m dock added with a 1m freeboard, making it the biggest pontoon in New Zealand. Adjacent to the new pontoon, dredging has been carried out to provide ease of access to the dock and to open up access to a 64m berth adjacent to the new premises of Rig Pro which is an exciting feature of the new development - the improved ability to carry out mast stepping.In addition to the development on the southern end of the marina, a new extension is about to be added to the existing docks on the northern end to create two new 65m (213ft) berths. With the new developments, Silo Marina will move from 535 linear metres to 874 linear metres of available space, doubling capacity and creating 10 berths in total to make boat movements easier.Jeanette explains there’s a third option nearby, the Nelson Marina: “Port Nelson at the top of the South Island has a Superyacht berth for larger vessels. The Port has a 40m pontoon for Superyachts visiting the Port – and is in excellent, safe facilities and offers the attractions of the Nelson region. The marina's central location is in a sheltered area and one not subject to sea surges.”These marinas for Superyacht berthing in New Zealand come hand in hand with a wealth of information on stunning itineraries and anchorages from Jeanette Tobin and her team at Asia Pacific Superyachts New Zealand. They can take care of all your needs and arrange a truly memorable Superyacht journey in and around New Zealand.Asia Pacific Superyachts <a href="mailto:nick@asia-pacific-superyachts.com">nick@asia-pacific-superyachts.com</a> <a href="http://www.asia-pacific-superyachts.com">www.asia-pacific-superyachts.com</a>

Asia Pacific’s growing marinas

One of our readers has send us this photo of the 119 metre superyacht A, docked in Auckland, New Zealand. A currently has her stern tented up, and it looks like painting is underway. A recently became world news, when rumours were picked up by mainstream media about a previous paint job done elsewhere, that had gone wrong.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/147215/image/large-047e42d43ffb23fd2af421cf8dc7dcfc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/147215"> <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/147216/image/large-14e9d264324e1d70431049f6c2252bb1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/147216"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/147217/image/large-95f9f0db613973615bc57d5652d399a1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/147217">Designed by Philippe Starck, A is powered by twin 6.035hp MAN RK280 Diesels, providing speeds up to 23 knots.Photos by Paul Miller

Photos of superyacht A being refitted in Aucland

The Top 20 largest yachts ever built in Germany

One of our readers send in this photo of some very large yachts, currently in Auckland New Zealand, where work is being done on them. In this picture, from right to left, we see the 119 metre Starck designed superyacht A, docked next the to classic 91 metre superyacht Nahlin. Next to Nahlin you can just make out Belle Aimee, a 52 metre superyacht by Amels. Not in this photo, but also in the same port are also the 85 metre Pacific, and the Royal Huisman Ethereal.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/146353/image/large-83fb121a7e4034b2c3b23c549f0931cd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/146353">Photo by Paul Miller

Superyachts under refit in Auckland

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/145265/image/large-61be38cbf498ec0fbda546a8d00a9447.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/145265">Superyacht A at anchorYou either love her, or you hate her, but one thing is for sure, few yachts in the world are as extraordinary as superyacht A, designed by Philippe Starck. She measures 119m long, and is powered by twin 6.035hp MAN RK280 Diesels, providing speeds up to 23 knots. At her top speed, she has a range of 4250nm. Her long foredeck houses a large glass fronted rectangular swimming pool, and her aft deck features a second massive pool. A third and fourth Jacuzzi are located aft on her bridge deck, and on her topdeck. There is even a Jacuzzi inside the main saloon. By the way, we love her!By Maarten Janssen, photo by Benoit Donne

The 119 metre superyacht A at anchor

<a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a>, designed by Philippe Starck, measures 119m long, and is powered by twin 6.035hp MAN RK280 Diesels, providing speeds up to 23 knots. At her top speed, she has a range of 4250nm. Her long foredeck houses a large glass fronted rectangular swimming pool, and her aft deck features a second massive pool. A third and fourth Jacuzzi are located aft on her bridge deck, and on her topdeck. There is even a Jacuzzi inside the main saloon. Designer Starck also designed the interior, which he described as as "the elegance of intelligence". She was built at the Blohm &amp; Voss yard, builders of some of the world's largest yachts, such as <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/210">Savarona</a>, <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1">Lady Moura</a>, <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14">Palladium</a> and <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12">Eclipse</a>.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143522/image/large-0d86b7ec5b2cbfb6093e0ce6122a5c76.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143522"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143523/image/large-bbaeeb88d35b651ce60194b366c056e7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143523"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143524/image/large-98e24449ab75cc61ef169b8695244264.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143524"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143525/image/large-e84c19c3c6008b122ffa746303e43b46.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143525"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143526/image/large-73a5fb54199cc9c60837a506ed6ad2a6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143526"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143527/image/large-fefdd742a871365dfefe6b5abe4373b0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143527"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143528/image/large-f8d8569cac04e5e29d1afa225f806a8d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143528"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143529/image/large-fccdcef42725e4ff852d9b37c5ff6228.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143529"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143530/image/large-2eaae5b694c9c4079acf0bafd53fa9de.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143530">By Maarten Janssen, photos by Benoit Donne

In Pictures: The 119 metre superyacht A in St Barths

This week, I had the pleasure of interviewing one of the most influential designers in the world, Philippe Starck. The latest superyacht by his hand, the 78 metre Feadship Venus, built for the late Steve Jobs, left the traditional superyacht industry gasping for air. I talked with the French designer about his radically different approach to a superyacht. “From the beginning, I had complete carte blanche”, Starck starts out “The owner just gave me the length and the number of guests he wanted to accommodate, and that was it. In our very first meeting we had little time to speak, so I told him, I will design it, as if it is for myself. The owner replied that that would be perfect for him. This is how we were able to design the project so fast, in just two weeks we delivered the plans, and a ship model”. "The owner was very rigorous, but he rewarded me with the best gift someone can give a designer; he told me “it is better than in all my dreams”… Which for him was a lot! "<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/141654/image/large-4171c0d9cb7688d6fb00f51d12c5a054.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/141569">Looking back, Starck continues “We never retouched the project which means that from 2007, to the launch, it is basically still the same”. When asked about the design process, Starck explains “We spent just one day every six weeks, for 5 years, on refinements. Millimetre by millimetre. Detail by Detail”. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/141655/image/large-6866deb1bf8d1386b25a44919a891d28.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/141484">Starck explains the concept was based on the philosophy of keeping the design to a minimum; “The key word between the owner and me was honesty. There was no room for lies, or for fakes. The result was what we say in France: Dans les règles de l’Art”. Which roughly translates into: with respect to rules to perform a job or task in an methodical way. “Venus is exceptional “ Starck continues, “In the design, there is no reason for aesthetics, no reason for ego, nor for trends. We designed it by philosophy. And we stuck to that absolutely. As I said, the yacht’s design was finished in our first meeting. Then we did the details. We always wanted less and less, which was fabulous. With the design done, it was all about refining it. Re-polishing it. We came back on the same details until they were perfect. We had many calls about parameters, the result is the perfect application of our joined philosophy”. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/141656/image/large-35736dc16f554a20ed3a7b68f01138dc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/141483">When we look at the final outcome, it is clear both designer and Jobs had an exceptional eye for design and details. When I ask Starck about the effect this had on the shipyard, he smiles; “I am sure we made it very difficult for Feadship. We reinvented ways to think, as well as the way to do things. But Feadship executed our ideas so very well. The quality of the boat is astonishing”. Although we might never get to see the inside of the yacht, Starck describes what many of us already expected: “Inside, we used loose furniture, but left it very open. The owners have to live their own life, so it was mostly done by them. It is the minimum of everything. There is not a single useless item inside…. Not a single useless pillow, or a useless object. In that sense, It is the opposite of other boats. Other boats try to show off more and more. Venus is revolutionary. It is the extreme opposite.” <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/141657/image/large-fa4a10d3963f8bcb7d853c32fea62350.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/141657">Venus is by no means the designer’s first superyacht; “You know, in my company we are very precise, and always try to bring on a revolution. In our first yacht, <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4464">Virtuelle</a>, we worked with an owner who fell in love with his yacht, a most elegant sailing boat. That yacht was a revolution. It had almost nothing in terms of details”. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/141658/image/large-fa5fcec6481b22fba75f813b76114c9b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/141658"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/141659/image/large-5397ddfb3b3698a6e9d284bb4b623859.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/141659">“After that we started working on <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/57">Wedge Too</a>. That was not the same thing, as we took the project on when it was already underway at the shipyard. We had to work with what was already there. Our goal for that project, was to create a yacht that was not vulgar, it just had to be elegant. That was all”. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/141660/image/large-94a5f756815d66587ff59f9f6ae54823.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/140812">Then came <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a>,the 119 metre Blohm &amp; Voss. “Ah A, yes that was a real revolution. Today we can see many projects that are like children of A. A was all about being in harmony with nature. Harmony with the waves. About organic design. That, and a very good hull, that makes no waves, even at high speed. Only last week I was on board, and I can tell you it is an astonishing boat. And the owner is very very happy”. Getting back to Venus, Starck explains: “And now there is Venus. Another revolution, not in the same way, but then again, it was not built for the same goal. Venus was about the elegance of minimum.” <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/141661/image/large-9c91787a8f777a0fbe2c94fded7506d8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/141661">Looking at the future, Starck hesitates. “We now have other projects, with again other goals. But you know, everything is always a secret, and unfortunately I cannot speak about these new projects, but we are working very hard on another amazing project, which is almost finished. She will be the most astonishing boat in the history of sailing yachts. And we have others also…. “ <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/141662/image/large-0e760204636ecd17ed04635cfbeef3e5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/141662">“Superyachts are part of our business now. We work with people we love, people who share our values. When people ask us to do a project, and we are not on the same page, we won’t do it. But when people come along, like the owner of Virtuelle, the owner of A, the owner of Wedge and now the owner of Venus, it is fantastic. We helped realize their dreams...” Philippe Starck +33 (0)1 48 07 54 54 <a href="mailto:info@starcknetwork.com?subject=Article%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">info@starcknetwork.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.starck.com/">www.starck.com</a>  By Maarten Janssen, photos of Venus by Christo303

SYT interview with Philippe Starck about 78 metre superyacht Venus

Capri is a small island in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the Sorrentine Peninsula, on the south side of the Gulf of Naples in the Campania region of Italy. Every year, many superyachts gather around the island, and anchor off the Faraglioni, a collection of large rock formations off the island's South Eastern coast. Conny Vuotto took these photos for SuperYachtTimes.com. Enjoy! <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/140812/image/large-6a870758bb0c0fb73e775d0700342fbb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/140812"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/140813/image/large-a2c2ba494c5c841296c2f7d115476257.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/140813"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/140814/image/large-10dd72bef4ab5849fd572954d819118b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/140814"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/140815/image/large-b9eb83c97472024d8c9c829a9bb18640.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/140815"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/140816/image/large-5a44140d4f02acdc07e9ac10806e76b4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/140816"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/140817/image/large-0216082fbaf57d3b1d1679726ced2c52.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/140817"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/140818/image/large-7314038fe9c38d4175634f5fc7150287.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/140818"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/140819/image/large-d58b0be36d08d406d5ebb87098624c91.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/140819">By Maarten Janssen, photos by Conny Vuotto

In Pictures: Superyachts in Capri part 2

Silver Arrows Marine (SAM) is the name of a new company to compete in the exclusive world of luxury motor yachts, taking its cue from the legendary Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrows cars which dominated motor racing in the 1930s. The new 14 metre yacht is currently being styled by Mercedes-Benz Style. The “Silver Arrow of the water” will feature innovations in functionality and layout never before seen in luxury motor yachts. Visitors to Monaco at the time of the Monaco Yacht Show will get an exclusive first sight of the new yacht in concept form at a Silver Arrows Marine design presentation being held close to Port Hercules on 19-21 September 2012. “It will be unique in a number of ways,” said Jacopo Spadolini, Chief Executive Officer of Silver Arrows Marine. “Our design solutions will not only transform the quality of the on-board experience, but also result in a profile unlike anything else on the water.” Ron Gibbs, Chairman and one of the project’s backers, added: “By bringing together the best people and the best ideas we are creating a high performance motor yacht worthy of the illustrious Silver Arrows name.” Silver Arrows Marine involves not only Mercedes-Benz Style designers but also leading figures in naval architecture and marine engineering. They include Martin Francis, the architect whose innovations include the hull design of the superyacht A and the construction technique used to build the glass pyramid at the Louvre in Paris, and Tommaso Spadolini – with 200 yachts to his name, including the first to run at more than 70 knots. Other key figures include Guido M. Pedone (Chief Financial Officer) and Giorgio Stirano (Engineering Director) and Paolo Bonaveri (Global Marketing and PR Director). Silver Arrows Marine <a href="mailto:contact@silverarrowsmarine.com">contact@silverarrowsmarine.com</a> <a href="http://www.silverarrowsmarine.com">www.silverarrowsmarine.com</a>

Silver Arrows Marine to unveil Mercedes-Benz styled yacht in Monaco

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/136290/image/large-a01bbf523f8cdc1e3e32d1c9d354711d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/136290">A on the Capri Coast<a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a>, designed by Philippe Starck, measures 119m long, and is powered by twin 6.035hp MAN RK280 Diesels, providing speeds up to 23 knots. At her top speed, she has a range of 4250nm. Her long foredeck houses a large glass fronted rectangular swimming pool, and her aft deck features a second massive pool. A third and fourth Jacuzzi are located aft on her bridge deck, and on her topdeck. There is even a Jacuzzi inside the main saloon. Designer Starck also designed the interior, which he described as as "the elegance of intelligence". She was built at the Blohm &amp; Voss yard, builders of some of the world's largest yachts, such as <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/210">Savarona</a>, <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1">Lady Moura</a>, <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14">Palladium</a> and <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12">Eclipse</a>. By Maarten Janssen, photo by Conny Vuotto

The 119 metre superyacht A off Capri

International Marine Management has announced the opening of a repair base in Guadeloupe dedicated to Mega Yachts. IMM brings European-standard repairs in the heart of the Caribbean. In Guadeloupe, International Marine Management is able to welcome the largest mega yachts alongside their quay, which is clean, well-protected, safe and secure, meeting ISPS standards. There, IMM can provide any repairs afloat (painting, hydraulics, electronics, electrics, piping, tank/duct cleaning, interior work, etc.), and will also provide all necessary services for the Vessel, Officers and Crew (including customs/immigration assistance, conciergerie services, spare parts dispatch throughout the Caribbean, French food and wine provisioning, among other things). IMM has 300 meters of quay space available for alongside berthing, and 8 places with mooring buoys for yachts up to 130 meters. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/132381/image/large-e8bf3eedf3c50431a1ba44a415170c93.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/132267">Motor Yacht <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a> just spent two months alongside IMM’s Quay in Guadeloupe. IMM also announces that they have dry dock space available in Martinique (which can accommodate yachts up to 140 meters) for any work that requires dry docking the Vessel. IMM’s facilities in Guadeloupe are literally in the middle of where the multihulls will be arriving for the finish of the 2010 Route du Rhum race at the beginning of November. International Marine Management Norina Edelman <a href="mailto:nedelman@imm-yachting.com?subject=International%20Marine%20Management%20on%20SuperYachtTimes.com">nedelman@imm-yachting.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.imm-yachting.com">www.imm-yachting.com</a>

International Marine Management opens superyacht repair base in Guadeloupe

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/132267/image/large-a48eec602c6ea58a79b864f3bc6eba4a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/132267">A on the West Coast<a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a>, designed by Philippe Starck, is currently on a tour of the US West Coast, and she is causing quite a stir as she goes along. The eye-catching superyacht A measures 119m long, and is powered by twin 6.035hp MAN RK280 Diesels, providing speeds up to 23 knots. At her top speed, she has a range of 4250nm. Her long foredeck houses a large glass fronted rectangular swimming pool, and her aft deck features a second massive pool. A third and fourth Jacuzzi are located aft on her bridge deck, and on her topdeck.By Maarten Janssen, photo by bv fan

Superyacht A visiting the US West Coast

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/131694/image/large-4d4058ef8ef9f588e4c80efb9d1f513e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/131694">A in the Dutch Antilles<a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a>, designed by Philippe Starck, is without doubt the most eye-catching superyacht ever launched. A, 119m long, is powered by twin 6.035hp MAN RK280 Diesels, providing speeds up to 23 knots. At her top speed, she has a range of 4250nm. Her cruising speed of 19.5 knots, gives her a range of 6500nm. Her interior holds some real surprises, such as a Jacuzzi inside the main salon and revolving beds in the main stateroom and some guest staterooms.By Maarten Janssen, photo by Kees Bustraan

Superyacht A in Curacao

For weeks a buzz had already been going through the yachting community about a new project at Blohm+Voss, when in December 2004 the German yard announced that they indeed had signed a contract for a new large motor yacht : project Sigma, a.k.a SF99, construction number 970 : a 119 m design by Philippe Starck, to be delivered in 2007. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130502/image/large-4baa84d3fed4cad417c2d23c16c04680.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130502"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130503/image/large-28b72d3dcfd54a9be6f1da150bbe9afb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130503"> <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130504/image/large-cdcc123811c872d69e7367a6e15c3846.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130504">A rendering of an extraordinary design was forwarded together with the press announcement. It caused quite a stir: a futuristic vessel with an axe bow, a hull that made you think about a submarine and a superstructure that clearly resembled the lines of a sub’s conning tower. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130505/image/large-b5cca3db48b3602ac0230d13a24b9e85.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130505">Although project Sigma remained the talk of the town – her designer also contributed some parts of the puzzle in a few magazine interviews – silence reigned after the official press release. Until the 27th of December 2007... In the late afternoon, the doors of the giant shipbuilding shed at the HDW Shipyard in Kiel, part of ThyssenKrupp Marine opened to reveal a sneak preview of project Sigma and some onsite spotters were immediately at hand to spread the news around the world. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130506/image/large-6ba637acbafaae07bfbd1b04010af60e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130506"> <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130507/image/large-6981b6fa90d6673689dea4a67e52ff75.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130507">The pièce de résistance however was served on January the 3rd 2008 when the yacht was towed out of her cradle into the Kieler Förde and she presented her design to the world. The response was enormous and all yachting media, printed or digital, picked it up and announced the news. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130508/image/large-a94c18fd0e13d9d51b763932534c4df2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130508">Although it was obvious that the yacht was nowhere near finished that 3rd of January 2008, it was clear that after the landmark yachts as <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/210">Savarona</a>, <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2042">Katalina</a>, <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1">Lady Moura</a>, <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/191">Golden Odyssey</a> and the perennial design icon <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/901">Eco</a>, Blohm + Voss had once again pulled out all the stops on their project Sigma. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130509/image/large-331b97e50b7b36e7e7f1fa20dcb4662e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130509">Slowly, more and more of the yacht was revealed : on the 18th of February 2008 she left the shed for a second time and we got a first view of her stern and the aft section of her superstructure. About a month later, March 10th 2008, project Sigma left the yard for her first sea trials in the Baltic Sea heading for Rügen and bearing the name SF99 on her stern. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130510/image/large-e06d96f8c061b9a9f6c94b169a3c45e2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130510">After some more sea trials and some more work at the yard, an official press release in June 2008 announced that SF99, project Sigma would be named <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a>, that she has a LOA of 119 m, an 18.87 m beam and a 5.15 m draft. Her propulsion is conventional with 2 MAN RK280 1.000 rpm engines producing 9000 kW giving her a cruising speed of 19.5 knots and a full speed of 23 knots. A speed of 18 knots would give her a range of 6.500 miles. <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a> has accommodation for 14 guests , a crew of 37 and 5 staff members. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130511/image/large-f9d0f4190de5ce1553bd7b6f6559d11b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130511">This astonishing yacht was designed by Philippe Starck with naval design by Martin Francis and Dirk Kloosterman acting as the owner’s representative, was the Project Manager. <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a> was delivered, in the early summer of 2008, then the yacht went for a tour in Norway and later that summer entered the Med. After the summer 2008 season she returned to the yard for some more work and was re-delivered in early June 2009. Her first trip of 2009 brought A back to Norway where she visited Bergen and went up to Flåm; a trip that provided some of the most exceptional photos of <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a> so far. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130512/image/large-30282c1790926cfa98895c12687213cc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130512">Back in the Med, photographer Anja Wippich was asked to undertake a photoshoot of the remarkable interior of the Starck masterpiece. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130513/image/large-4878f8c5d55d8c7efbd75f344bfb798e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130513">Superyacht Times is proud to present you with these interior photos of <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a>. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130514/image/large-487e21d294bd8ad88bd90e6b2bd8b963.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130514">Pictures usually say so much more than a thousand words ever can, and therefore we can only advise you to sit back, relax and enjoy these images. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130515/image/large-55441fcc2d0814786877c3cc094f84a6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130515">Starck not only designed the exterior but he was also responsible for the interior of the yacht. Where the Feadship, <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/57">Wedge Too</a> revealed how different Starck’s approach to a yacht interior was, the interior of <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a> takes it even so much further : never before have we seen an interior like this. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130516/image/large-c653c60ac05af3b42c430b81bf49e1c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130516">He describes the interior design as the elegance of intelligence and the result is so surprising that yachting journalists were at a loss for words. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130517/image/large-77ba1e9bf2c469060a5028b31872ceeb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130517">You find remarkable things in this interior like a Jacuzzi inside the main salon, revolving beds in the main stateroom and some guest staterooms, lots of shiny metals and freestanding mirrors. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130518/image/large-e914f1ca1e66e9ce6dbb2ead96113216.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130518">As can be seen in many aerial photos, the yacht has two large water areas on her main deck : a glass fronted swimming pool in front of the superstructure and a massive whirlpool aft of the superstructure. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130519/image/large-3525fa27429bb1c7a57a6f7cc457348c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130519">Apart from the Jacuzzi inside the main salon there is another aft on the bridge deck at the spa and wellness area. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130520/image/large-227f61b03081d007dbadf1f6f172d1a3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130520">Of course a yacht like this also needs tenders and these were also designed by Starck : two 10 meter custom tenders by Vaudry Miller from New Zealand : and open tender and a limo version. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130521/image/large-a9a5901ab14ca0fa55c10b1d7b7f3e5b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130521">An exceptional yacht and a future icon for certain. Enjoy this online world exclusive. This website and its content is copyright of SuperYachtTimes.com © 2009. Information or photos taken from this article, may not be used to reproduce any article by any form of media, without the written consent of SuperYachtTimes.com. All rights reserved By Chris Suffeleers / SuperYachtTimes.com Photos by Anja Wippich (interior) and Guillaume Plisson (exterior)

SuperYacht of the week: the astonishing 119m superyacht A

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/130261/image/large-ea4a93a36197499025b856f025600105.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/130261">A anchored off St Barth<a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a>, designed by Philippe Starck, is without doubt the most eye-catching superyacht ever launched. A, 119m long, is powered by twin 6.035hp MAN RK280 Diesels, providing speeds up to 23 knots. At her top speed, she has a range of 4250nm. Her cruising speed of 19.5 knots, gives her a range of 6500nm. Special features on A, are her stern and side hatches. Through innovative engineering and design, the stern hatch opens up as a huge swim platform over the sea, whilst several side garages host tenders, including the 11m main guest tender, designed by Starck. Photo by Benoit DonneBy Maarten Janssen

Superyacht A anchored off St Barths

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/128630/image/large-f87f30bf446ef271ff93075c20bad856.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/128630">A off Dubrovnik<a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a>, designed by Philippe Starck, is without doubt the most eye-catching superyacht ever launched. As with Starck's previous superyacht project (<a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/57">Wedge Too</a>), you either love it, or you hate it. The name A derives from the first letter of both owners first names. A, 119m long, is powered by twin 6.035hp MAN RK280 Diesels, providing speeds up to 23 knots. At her top speed, she has a range of 4250nm. Her cruising speed of 19.5 knots, gives her a range of 6500nm. All this on 757.000 liters of Diesel fuel. Go to <a target="_blank" href="http://www.superyachtphoto.com/">SuperYachtPhoto.com</a> for more photos of A. By Maarten Janssen

The magnificent A off Dubrovnik

Motor yacht A, launched by Blohm &amp; Voss in 2008, returned to her German builder after her initial summer season. She was relaunched only a few days ago, and German photographer Carl Groll went out to photograph her, during her recent sea trials, off the coast of Germany. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127349/image/large-1c7f40c986f10da07bb6c4a8901f52f4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127349"><a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a>, designed by Philippe Starck, is without doubt the most eye-catching superyacht ever launched. As with Starck's previous superyacht project (<a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/57">Wedge Too</a>), you either love it, or you hate it. The name A derives from the first letter of both owners first names. The left (curved and feminine) side of the huge A on the stern resembles her, the right (angular and masculine) side resembles him. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127350/image/large-9e4948ec101e7ed83f0a09928abadc8b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127350">Due to strict confidentiality agreements, little information is released on the yacht. What we can tell you, are some of the technical facts. A, 119m long, is powered by twin 6.035hp MAN RK280 Diesels, providing speeds up to 23 knots. At her top speed, she has a range of 4250nm. Her cruising speed of 19.5 knots, gives her a range of 6500nm. All this on 757.000 liters of Diesel fuel. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127351/image/large-3b7e740de3e55d5cd97358de1a8169b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127351"> <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127352/image/large-28a28a88908a05f2a6f8ea6b20f0a96b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127352"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127353/image/large-f264b1ebcfcb9492f5fade4e0a8743db.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127353">Special features on A, are her stern and side hatches. Through innovative engineering and design, the stern hatch opens up as a huge swim platform over the sea, whilst several side garages host tenders, including the 11m main guest tender, designed by Starck. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127354/image/large-b30f6e4fa499ed6de9a3200a9dee0617.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127354"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127355/image/large-8fbf1ce5d3aae483865b354566ff47be.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127355"> <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127356/image/large-954cd5009e28fa376d2849e55dc7a1aa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127356">Another interesting feature on board A, as seen from these aerial shots, are her three pools, on the top-, aft-, and foredeck. The latter is the biggest of the three, and is positioned at an angle on the foredeck. It is equipped with a waterjet, that creates a current to swim against. The top deck pool is the smallest, whilst the aft deck pool has an organic and highly unusual shape. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127357/image/large-ac7c53d9f6dc1a708d59252960b73608.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127357">At first sight, A seems to lack a proper aft deck space for a yacht this size, this is however not entirely true. Decks 4 and 5 (the bridge- and owner's deck) feature deep balconies, whilst deck 3, what could be called the main deck, features a clean and spacious aft deck, which features a pool, as well as a covered seating area. The main deckspace however, is the large open foredeck, which is accessible from the main salon. High bulwarks provide security, although when traveling at 23 knots, this area might get a bit too windy to be used by guests. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127358/image/large-9cb6eae87d5bcccb9a09990e290404c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127358"> <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127359/image/large-9f88e26d79f90a52a59e4e8ecd9ed3e2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127359">Forward of the 'cockpit area' there is a touch and go helipad, set in what is otherwise a clean and open space.By Maarten Janssen, Photos by Carl Groll

SuperYacht photo special: A

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/127139/image/large-00d702fba314d7fb2ec0954494bed277.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/127139">Superyacht A in VallettaThe 119 metre Philippe Starck designed A (previously known as Project SF99/Sigma) seen in Valletta, Malta on 27 September 2008. Built by HDW in Kiel, A was delivered in time for the 2008 Mediterranean Summer season and is now back at the German shipyard.For more photos of M/Y A visit <a target="_blank" href="http://www.SuperYachtPhoto.com%20">www.SuperYachtPhoto.com</a>By Merijn de Waard

Superyacht A in Valletta

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/125404/image/large-edbf617ff1022186d829d7546f3c21e9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/125404">Starck designed superyacht A arrives at the Cote d’AzurMotor yacht A left Germany in July of this year and after a short cruise in the Baltic she cruised to Palma de Mallorca. The Philippe Starck designed superyacht spent a few weeks around the Spanish island before she sailed to the South of France. Since her arrival at the Cote d’Azur she has been in Nice, Cannes, St Jean Cap Ferrat and Monaco. Here, A is pictured off Cannes on 30 August 2008. Photo by Remi van der Deure. By Merijn de Waard

Starck designed superyacht A arrives at the Cote d’Azur

German photographer Carl Groll went out with a small plane this morning to take aerial photos of A (previously project Sigma / SF 99) after she had left her building shed again. The most notable change is the new color of her funnels, sporting a silver color now. On this new photo we can also clearly see the heli platform on the bow as well as the large pool on the aft deck. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124735/image/large-ac317f702b6873a7003f4b9a6c308b17.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124735">More to follow, stay tuned!By Merijn de Waard

A (project SF 99 / Sigma) seen from the air

Wednesday evening the much anticipated 92m Blohm &amp; Voss Mayan Queen IV (project Safari) was launched. The yacht is designed by Tim Heywood for a Mexican owner who previously owned a Feadship. It appears that her hull is painted in two different tones of grey/silver, as we have seen before on the 72m Heywood designed Kogo. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124752/image/large-a7d15349bc16722e2ac89c5145f0b6da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124752">After the launch of the 123m <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">A</a> (project Sigma / SF 99) in January, Mayan Queen IV is the second yacht in a new series of contracts for Blohm &amp; Voss, after they had ceased superyacht construction in the early nineties. Next up will be the 94m hull 971 in 2009, followed by the 162m <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12">Eclipse</a> in 2010. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124753/image/large-181332db5a636533957ae78347d2e66a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124753"><a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13">Mayan Queen IV</a> will conduct sea trials soon, stay tuned and <a href="http://www.superyachttimes.com/pages/contact/">contact us</a> if you have new photos or more information on Mayan Queen IV. By Merijn de Waard

Blohm & Voss launches Mayan Queen IV (project Safari)

On Monday 10 March early in the morning Sigma (SF99) left the shipyard of HDW in Kiel. The Starck designed yacht cruised through the Kiel Fjord, under the guidance of the tug Kitzeberg, heading Northwards to the Baltic Sea. By entering the open sea she continued on her own and passed Femern Bælt (the waterway between Germany and Denmark) at 14 knots, on her way to Rügen. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124248/image/large-402119e5f2dc23b3ecb119ab1c1ae986.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124248">The 123 meter <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">SF99</a> was launched from the HDW shipyard in Kiel on Thursday 3 January, only to disappear in the sheds again a few days later. Almost six weeks later she left the covered shed again and performed short trials in the waterway in front of the shipyard.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124249/image/large-027f4b3f484593dc88f04ed3733cac8a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124249">In preparation of her first sea trials most of her protective covering was removed last week, showing the definitive lines of this striking yacht. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124250/image/large-76417445733f7feb9266fb3725f9e32b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124250"> <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124251/image/large-9a77d7fa636103685841bb1e74f2bd34.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124251"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124252/image/large-a5488c66f69baf0bc840220beac8ed3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124252"> <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124253/image/large-630718198cd209623cb7e2320ca7061f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124253">During the trials she will sail under her project name SF99, which is visible on her stern. Her definitive name, which will be short, will be revealed just before delivery. By Merijn de Waard

Sigma (SF99) leaves Kiel for first sea trials

For the second time this year, Blohm &amp; Voss launched Sigma (Project SF99), and for the first time we can catch a glimpse of her stern design. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124107/image/large-3644a8a4bb85bb1198c4cfd519262a3f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124107">The yacht is designed by renowned French designer Philippe Starck, but for now little details are revealed. Sigma (SF99) promises to be one of the most spectacular yachts ever launched. SYT will keep you updated with new photos during the remainder of her construction .The following photos were made by Carl Groll. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124108/image/large-195f31456471716f1b5adcc7397fc4e3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124108"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/124109/image/large-e4338d9aea538a4e0e80281db7c4e533.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/124109">By Maarten Janssen

Sigma relaunched

Sigma (SF99) promises to be one of the most spectacular yachts launched ever and we will keep you updated with new photos during the remainder of her construction . Last night German yacht photographer Carl Groll went out to take the first night photo of <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">Sigma</a> at the HDW shipyard in Kiel. Boschuda also just send us the first photos of today, taken only 1 hour ago.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/123835/image/large-87e057be952f609922344b3f8790df69.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/123835"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/123836/image/large-6ef2164becbd2fcdf12fd7703ed5b740.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/123836"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/123837/image/large-1f8112ee02278d87c9b3c431a62f657b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/123837"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/123838/image/large-36d76205f166a4b8a66b6ba082163743.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/123838"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/123839/image/large-da4b0eafccd8e2e576d2f5fa5690cada.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/123839"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/123840/image/large-99b50b797f6c2dc5432aa8f10c2cc657.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/123840">Photo credit: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.superyachtphoto.com">Carl Groll / Yacht-Images.com</a> &amp; Boschuda

New photos of the Philippe Starck designed Sigma (SF99)

In December 2004 Blohm &amp; Voss announced the contract for a 118-meter motor yacht, project name Sigma (hull number 970). The yacht is designed by renowned French designer Philippe Starck, but no more details were revealed. The drawing, that was released together with the statement, however said more than 1.000 words. It showed a futuristic looking yacht with an axe bow and a small, tall superstructure at the aft end of the yacht. The Blohm &amp; Voss shipyard in Hamburg was too busy with other projects so it was decided to build <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11">Sigma</a> at the HDW shipyard in Kiel, which is also part of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems. Since the statement in December 2004 the project name of the yacht seems to have changed to SF99 and there are rumors that her length increased to 130-meter although this has not been confirmed. After almost three years of silence Sigma was launched today! The following photos were made by Carl Groll.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/123828/image/large-d8d83f330717c6195a393aa8ef98fdb4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/123828"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/123829/image/large-f1c081977c514b18ace43971de98465c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/123829"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/123830/image/large-16fe3c3ec96f6774c2fc55fb8bfb27ff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/123830"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/123831/image/large-713f60fa45f5cbf21c8f5c1cadab2f00.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/123831"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/123832/image/large-bebf525e765f29017ee62a37ef920267.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/123832">