RoMEA Yacht News & Events

RoMEA

With a career spanning more than two decades, an exceptional line up of yachts to his name and more than 300 metres of yacht launched last year alone, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4540" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vickers Studio (Company)">John Vickers</a> is a man worth speaking to. Starting his career as one of the first designers at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">Redman Whiteley Dixon (now RWD)</a>, John cut his teeth on the myriad of major projects that the studio underwent in its foundling years and by the age of only 27 he was project managing the interior design of the 155-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Al Said155.0m (508'6&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2008">Al Said</a>. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291899/image/large-83211a262a6c8863d1ef91e856500bc0.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291899">Originally destined for a life onboard, John has a deep love of classic yachts but realised quite quickly that he needed an injection of creativity in his life to keep him excited. Having studied design in the UK, he returned to shore and applied for a job at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a>, becoming the now 60 person strong company’s fifth employee and learning from the three founding partners. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291014/image/large-499e0b3afc4caa64349fca334def7003.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291014">Thrown in at the deep end and eager to learn &nbsp;John quickly began to take on some major design projects, the award winning 55.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> Twizzle (now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mary A55.5m (182'1&quot;)Feadship2005">Mary A</a>) and 73-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/69" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ilona82.0m (269'0&quot;)Amels2004">Ilona</a> and of course the aforementioned <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Al Said155.0m (508'6&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2008">Al Said</a>, the largest volume yacht in the world at the time. “It was an amazing experience being in my 20s, learning from talented designers and working on projects like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Al Said155.0m (508'6&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2008">Al Said</a> involved the full breadth of design processes. I was running creative teams, CAD drawing teams, visualising teams, and building systems to run all of these design elements in tandem, which became formative for later projects.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/72312/image/large-e4a7c4f1e57157c00ce106ef28187a9f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/72312"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/72305/image/large-0cf888e903bbec0fdc91ff6ec83d517d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/72305">John worked with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a> for seven years, before joining the London-based architecture firm <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/423" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Candy & Candy (Company)">Candy &amp; Candy</a> which was in the process of setting up a yachting arm to the business. John built the team and together they worked on the design of the 62-metre Candyscape II, now <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/418" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sealion62.0m (203'5&quot;)VSY2009">Sealion</a>, completing the interior and exterior design in only four months and going on to win the best superyacht awards for the first build of a brand new Italian shipyard. After leaving <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/423" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Candy & Candy (Company)">Candy &amp; Candy</a> in 2007, John was asked to join the studio of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Terence Disdale Design (Company)">Terence Disdale</a>, one of the industry’s most well respected and longest standing firms. Specialising in the design of general arrangements exterior and interior configurations, John worked on a number of major projects, such as 162.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eclipse162.5m (533'2&quot;)Blohm & Voss GmbH2010">Eclipse</a>, 147.25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3962" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="A+147.25m (483'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2012">Topaz</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/44" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeking & Rasmussen (Company)">Abeking &amp; Rasmussen</a> sisterships 81-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4094" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Grace81.0m (265'9&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2014">Kibo</a>, now Grace, and 81.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/69575/image/large-9bbec295f2af1f9eb74914cec63c8ed6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69575"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/69578/image/large-e721f09de3a6f3f049e105812230477a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69578">Wanting &nbsp;more creative freedom and a clear focus on the client's story John set up his own studio with his wife Gemma in 2015. After several years overlooking the Thames the studio escaped the city to a barn conversion studio near Chichester harbour on the UK’s beautiful south coast. The passion from the studio is obvious with the level of detail and care taken with the owners' dream projects. John loves to listen and create unique designs with creative layers in each pen line and shape. “We love to perfect the exterior in conjunction with the layout, which also gets the best results for the interior design. Having solved so many interior design problems, we find that often the interior designer gets brought in last for a project, in reality they should be involved right from the start helping create a really spectacular layout. We do interiors, exteriors and layout styling of the whole yacht, &nbsp;which gives us the opportunity to really achieve spectacular results from inside it to out.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/186990/image/large-84aa03a7ceee1701fce134d9828c5369.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/186990">“We really like to discover the passions and history of a client which we include into a yacht's DNA, creating complete design personalisation.” This John feels has to be the ultimate luxury. It has meant that the majority of his new-builds have won superyacht awards, even when not building at top tier shipyards. “It’s not something you can ever guarantee, but we have seemed to do it fairly regularly’; something that might be of interest to shipyards and clients wanting this level of top industry recognition. In the last eight years, many have been semi custom and refits tailored meticulously to very varied tastes and styles of the client”. However, John’s personal aesthetic direction includes yacht style such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6037" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue II55.99m (183'8&quot;)Turquoise Yachts2020">Blue II&nbsp;</a>or elegant beach house vibes like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6172" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Calypso I36.0m (118'1&quot;)Mulder Shipyard2019">Calypso</a>. His preference would be clean stylish simplicity, however, he is equally at home creating ‘wow factor’ interiors, such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6595" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanbird53.0m (173'11&quot;)Sanlorenzo2021">Oceanbird</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291307/image/large-8fe2db3e479378f4eadf7f3ec59c724a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291307">One of John’s many strengths is to turn around major design projects to a very tight schedule, building the team and putting systems in place in the earliest stages. It is a strength which has been particularly important over recent years with the increase of refit projects and a much higher demand for short new-build completions. In 2022 alone John’s team completed the refit of 75-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Meserret III75.0m (246'1&quot;)Peene-Werft GmbH1992">Leander</a>, 88.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4794" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Infinity88.5m (290'4&quot;)Oceanco2015">Cloud 9</a> and 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6595" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanbird53.0m (173'11&quot;)Sanlorenzo2021">Oceanbird</a>, as well as the new-build interior design of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> 56.5-metre Alma and they are adept at working on an array of complex projects simultaneously.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/291302/image/large-edcda66b5f582287fa165d634a2a5320.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/291302">“Because of my 23 years experience we have become specialists in producing a lot of quality design work to a very tight schedule, and also coming into difficult projects late and turning them around under pressure. We recently did a very demanding and detailed refit on the 52-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6595" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanbird53.0m (173'11&quot;)Sanlorenzo2021">Oceanbird</a>, we expanded the team to 15 strong and produced 24 visuals and 50 CAD drawings in less than four weeks, and for the 75-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/218" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Meserret III75.0m (246'1&quot;)Peene-Werft GmbH1992">Leander</a> we completed full layout redesign with complicated interior joinery creation all for a very experienced owner on four-decks in only eight weeks.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/237702/image/large-0ed4b3794019bf9b0d5c2d5d4a5ce007.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/237702">Over the coming year he hopes to further expand the portfolio of projects, with his team of design experts and with two refits and a number of new-builds already underway.

Interview with John Vickers yacht designer

Francesca Webster sits down with designer John Vickers, to discuss an extraordinary portfolio of yachts and his passion for creative customisation.

design-at-the-studio-slider#0

Custom creations: In conversation with yacht designer John Vickers

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/252893/image/large-455cc222e91d14cc2e3a2f12c976d043.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/252893">Seen here anchored off the Lerins Islands during summer 2021 is the 81.8-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a>. Built by German shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/44" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeking & Rasmussen (Company)">Abeking &amp; Rasmussen</a> and completed in 2015, she features both exterior and interior design by the British studio of <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>, who was also responsible for the design of her sister ship, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4094" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Grace81.0m (265'9&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2014">Grace</a>. Powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> 3516C engines, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> is fully stocked with everything required to spark the adrenaline of all those onboard. Her impressive array of toys and three tenders – including a 9.9-metre Limousine and two windsurfers – are put into action by her crew of 23. Her 5,750 nautical mile range means that nearly any destination is within reach for her 12 guests.

Abeking and Rasmussen superyacht RoMEA in the South of France

The 82m superyacht RoMEA built by Abeking & Rasmussen, is seen here at anchor in the South of France

Abeking & Rasmussen superyacht RoMEA in the South of France

The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6557" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jeddah Yacht Club Marina (Company)">Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina</a>, the first along the Red Sea Coast that can accommodate over 100 yachts and superyachts up to 120 metres, has opened. As an entry point to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the yacht club and marina is located in a key and strategic location of customs and immigration services for all vessels entering the region. The event took place this weekend at the beginning of the inaugural Saudi Arabia Formula 1 Grand Prix, though the official opening will take place in March 2022, less than a year since the project began. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212919/image/large-253acb3eca3f00dd615751d06eedd514.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212919">The opening of the marina will offer visitors access to the Jeddah Yacht Club, its boardwalk and surrounding restaurants and retail outlets. The vision of the yacht club and marina are tied to the goal of the kingdoms transformation under Vision 2030 – creating economic growth and more opportunities for Saudi nationals while promotion culture, entertainment and sport.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212918/image/large-3c1b59d41c4dbb32eb13e82fe58b17c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212918">SELA, the company behind some of the more ambitious projects including the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6557" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jeddah Yacht Club Marina (Company)">JYC Marina</a>, announced that the marina had welcomed its first yachts into berth ahead of the F1. The new event took place from 3rd - 5th of December at a circuit on Jeddah's North Corniche, the fastest F1 track in the world. Mohideen Nazer, Director Parks &amp; Resorts, SELA, commented,"We're delighted that the world of yachting now has its first home address on Saudi Arabia's Red coast. All the teams have worked very hard to give birth to this great Marina and magnificent Club House in record time. This is a small step in our contribution to the realisation of Vision 2030 for the Kingdom, but it is nonetheless a major first step to turn the Red Sea Coast into a compelling destination for yachting aficionados to enjoy our amazing cruising grounds".<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212922/image/large-6516f9351b5a7f5e4ed0934f3f99dbaa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212922"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212916/image/large-cc2c3d8740e94787ac555fa49e44971f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212916">Guests aboard superyachts such as like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="O'Pari95.0m (311'8&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2020">O'Pari</a>, 95m, built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/778" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Golden Yachts Ltd. (Company)">Golden Yachts</a>, the 85m <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/101" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunrays85.47m (280'5&quot;)Oceanco2010">Sunrays</a> and the 82m <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/44" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeking & Rasmussen (Company)">Abeking &amp; Rasmussen</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a>, were joined by a fleet of over 40 superyachts and smaller vessels to take part in the fun, for what is going to be an adrenalin-packed weekend, just a stone's throw away from the JYC Marina.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212917/image/large-7b8d47106e3b99c1ee3cc3c126007309.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212917"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212914/image/large-f939d5d140cfda2785b6c21f2f5f0666.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212914">The marina offers arriving vessels all the necessary supplies of electricity, water and fuel bunkering facilities, in a spectacular modern and functional environment. It has an on-site helipad to make it convenient for guests to arrive and embark or disembark discretely. There will also be repair and refit facilities at the shipyard. Oliver Rees, General Manager Jeddah Yacht Club &amp; Marina (from January 2022): "JYC Marina and the Jeddah Yacht Club will be a perfect home port for private yachts, but also a great place to meet, enjoy sailing and water sports and revel in the quality of services we have on offer. It will also be a gateway to the wonders of the Red Sea, and we are confident that this fantastic new facility will rapidly become a prime waypoint on the global yachting map."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212921/image/large-e3549877f342d3f0c9caec4501f370e8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212921">The JYC Yacht Club, which will also officially open next March, features a mast-and-sail-themed 5,000 metre-square club house, located by the entrance channel of the Marina, is a beacon, and a lighthouse that welcomes visitors to Jeddah’s shores. In addition to panoramic views of the city, the Jeddah Yacht Club boasts a feast of facilities for its members, which include restaurants, a wellness centre, a business centre, lounges, concierge services, sailing and nautical activities.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/212928/image/large-fef103e807fbf01b7d93058305a4bacc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/212928">

Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina opens in Saudi Arabia

The Jeddah Yacht Club and Marine, the first on the Red sea has opened ahead of the Saudi F1.

Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina opens ahead of first Saudi F1

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/204514/image/large-e1c80428a19353359f039bb8c2baac5b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/204514">The 81.8-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a>, built by German shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/44" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeking & Rasmussen (Company)">Abeking &amp; Rasmussen</a> and completed in 2015, is seen here enjoying the Lerins Islands this summer. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA&nbsp;</a>features both exterior and interior design by the British studio of <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>, who was also responsible for the design of her sister ship, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4094" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Grace81.0m (265'9&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2014">Grace</a>. Powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> 3516C engines, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> is fully stocked with everything required to spark the adrenaline of all those on board. Her impressive array of toys and three tenders – including a 9.9-metre Limousine and two windsurfers – are put into action by her crew of 23. Her 5,750 nautical mile range means that nearly any destination is within reach for her 12 guests.

Superyacht RoMEA in Cannes

The 82m superyacht RoMEA built by Abeking & Rasmussen, is seen here at anchor in Cannes.

After meeting Eric Lepeingle, it is easy to see why he has established a successful career. He is a thoughtful professional who started out in the yachting industry as a young Olympic sailor and has gone on to sell, deliver, advise and collaborate on an abundance of sizeable vessels. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial</a> invited Eric to join the company last summer, and with superyachts such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.5m (349'5&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2016">Amadea</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lili55.0m (180'5&quot;)Amels2017">Lili</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a>&nbsp;and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1255" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hokulani45.7m (149'11&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts2007"></a>on the books, he has certainly stayed occupied. Nevertheless, flying in from his home in Cannes to a sunny <a href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show - 2019">Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show</a>, Eric takes the time to catch up and tell me more about his role at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial</a> and, as we move into a new decade, what he finds valuable in the industry.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/112646/image/large-c56131dbccd591e80d0384670088cb8f.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/112646">How does&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial</a>&nbsp;stay ahead of the game and how can we ensure that the industry continues to grow?We have to ensure that we are always looking to the future with a global outlook. In our relationships with clients and within the industry, we are being pushed to develop more in certain areas of the world, so it is the time to do it. Especially as clients and their expectations are evolving. As everyone knows, the way of buying has changed and the new yacht owner’s generation is driving new ways of thinking and enjoying products and so the actual onboard experience is what, I think, should also drive our way of thinking alongside our capacity to continuously think to improve what we need to do tomorrow. In five years time, these boats aren’t going to be the same. It is not an easy job, but we should be building for the future.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/100113/image/large-c05992f1973329e9da397b620f18e6e8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/100113">Do you have any particular career highlights?I am always learning and so every day there are highlights. I had a blast when I first went on board <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> - this boat is something different. I was conducting a tour of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">Flying Fox</a> to show the guests the exterior lines and we were overlooking the 115-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/298" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pelorus115.0m (377'4&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2003">Pelorus</a>. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/100109/image/large-6b08c900eebdc573d81bf4bb5b6069b6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/100109">For some reason, that moment really resonated with me, with these two milestones in yachting side by-side. Another fond memory is a long time ago, I delivered a boat to a client in Porto Cervo and as we were entering into the harbour, he was there on the dock with his family, waiting for his new vessel. When he and his family entered the port, the smiles on their faces made me understand that our job in this industry is to bring happiness to people. We are 100% client-orientated and it is always an interesting experience. <img src="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/uploads/store/photo/82887/image/large-11588b0d46634a32693d2befd7c4897e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/82887">What are you going to focus on in your new role?I trust in long-vision management and in good profit - and that is not just in terms of capital, that is in the ways to bring in new and different ideas to maintain an element of adventure in business. I think the industry is driven by different values and everyone needs to find and identify their own.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="/uploads/store/photo/55401/image/large-6524e9c9dfc37e22bf131ecc39bea57e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/55401"></a> This article was first featured in The SuperYacht Times newspaper. <a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription">Subscribe</a> now to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

Q&A with Eric Lepeingle: Imperial’s Head of Sales and Charter 

In our latest broker Q&A, SYT catches up with Imperial’s Head of Sales and Charter, Eric Lepeingle.

Market Q&A with Eric Lepeingle: Imperial’s Head of Sales and Charter 

More and more of us want our time away from our normal day-to-day to be spent in the middle of nowhere, in a tranquil paradise. The peaceful Maldives is a place where only the sounds of lapping waves and charismatic species of marine life will disturb you. The Maldives is a repeat favourite yachting destination as guests find that they never tire of the secluded sandy beaches dotted with palm trees and colourful coral reefs drenched in delicious sunshine. &nbsp; <img src="/uploads/store/photo/17488/image/large-b2120d05b93be969d7d7597deadcd439.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/17488">For the 81.8-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> and her crew, this isn’t their first rodeo. Together since July 2015 when German shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/44" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeking & Rasmussen (Company)">Abeking &amp; Rasmussen</a> delivered the new superyacht, they have cruised around the world in style. Dubbed one of the most indulgent and luxurious charter yachts in the world, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> is fully stocked with everything required to spark the adrenalin of all those on board. Her impressive array of toys and three tenders – including a 9.9-metre Limousine and two windsurfers – are put into action by a crew of 23 who boast good energy, a wealth of watersports experience and knowledge of unique cruising grounds. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/5355/image/large-6aef80609eabbc498bf2eb8311c4dd08.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/5355">Up to 12 guests will certainly not get tired of her sweeping sun deck, large beach club, luxury spa, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Terence Disdale Design (Company)">Terence Disdale</a> interior during a week of fun in the Maldives. After burning some energy out on the water or exploring one of the many paradise islands, guests can reside in either the full-beam master bedroom with private study and two en-suite bathrooms, full-beam VIP cabin, or five additional staterooms which are all decorated in an exquisite blend of bronze, steel and glass, with stonework, rich leather and exotic woods. The bespoke, contemporary furniture is complemented by original artworks for a heightened sense of relaxed opulence whilst cruising between the 26 coral atolls that make up the Maldives. &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69549/image/large-11997b8e4049d53825e23b203879dcaa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69549">With a new itinerary specially curated by those at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial</a>, superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> is getting ready to charter in the Indian Ocean. Sharing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA’s</a> itinerary for the winter season, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial</a> has selected seven special destinations in the Maldives covering 160 nautical miles to help make for an unforgettable charter experience.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69548/image/large-97f5645c3bd66c139b6d14d2c4c6455c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69548"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/69578/image/large-e721f09de3a6f3f049e105812230477a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69578">Day one: MaléThe first day of your Indian Ocean adventure begins by touching down at the international airport in the capital of the Maldives, Malé. Unlike anywhere else in the Maldives, Malé is protected by a ring of seawalls and has a fascinating cityscape that stands out in contrast to the calm Indian Ocean. Work off the jet lag by meandering through the island’s narrow streets in awe of the surrounding mosques and colourful buildings. Head away from the hustle and bustle towards the harbour, where you can find a fruit market and a popular fish market offering the day's catch. Standing out from the crowd will be the superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a>, who will be waiting for you with a refreshing drink to welcome all guests on board and get ready for a week exploring this wonderful tropical nation.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/31707/image/large-8afc30a394575a82b958f6d8321b04b2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/31707">Day two: Huvafen FushiOnly 30 minutes away from Malé is the private resort island of Huvafen Fushi, the perfect spot for a day of ultimate glamour and relaxation. Approach the never-ending white sand beaches and spot the manta rays as they whirl around the hull in a feeding frenzy. Disembark <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> and head for the island’s number one attraction and the world’s first underwater spa where you can treat yourself to a morning of yoga and meditation, or sink into sensuous relaxation with one of the many first-class treatments with the sight of the local ocean creatures through the spa’s all-glass walls to keep you company.&nbsp;After a pick-me-up at the beachside bar, there is no choice but to take advantage of one of the best diving sites in the world for the rest of the day. The islet of Hembadhu is located just north of Huvafen Fushi and is home to over 600 species of exotic fish, including turtles, stingrays and the occasional whale shark. For those who are feeling daring, ask your experienced diving instructor to help you find the well-known shipwreck on one of the island’s many coral reefs. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/34505/image/large-89b6e9f0a3ee27f44c0edec48b22b533.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/34505">Day three: RasdhooEnjoy the short trip west sat on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA’s</a> upper observation deck whilst enjoying a morning coffee served by the crew - a perfect spot on board to take in the idyllic scenes of the surrounding ocean which is brimming with life. Upon arrival at the island of Rasdhoo, you will see how the area is comprised of a perfect ring of coral which forms the natural atoll of Ari. The almost rectangular formation of the islands covers an area of nearly 89 by 3km and boasts an incredible 37 dive sites. Have a go at spotting those that congregate around Ari Atoll’s beautiful coral, such as the unique stone and scorpionfish, white tip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, tuna, eagle rays and manta rays.&nbsp;After lunch back on board prepared by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA’s</a> celebrated chef, ask the crew to escort you to the island’s jetty for an afternoon picking up a few souvenirs at one of the island’s few shops before heading to the south of the island to relax on Bikini beach until sunset. The crew can pick all guests up from the beach for an evening winding down on board the main deck. After dinner under the stars, why not beam a favourite movie on the panoramic screen in the 5.1 cinema room to relax in preparation for the next day of high-energy activities. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/69567/image/large-78a8d667826334871d2a090c55fe69aa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69567">Day four: Landaa GiraavaruThe only UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in the whole of the Maldives can be found in the Baa Atoll. In this chain of islands is Landaa Giraavaru, which is home to the famous Four Seasons Resort and is a glittering highlight for the middle point of your week abroad. The resort has the Atoll’s vast natural lagoon right on its doorstep and the concierge will be able to organise a day of thrilling activities that are unique to the Maldives. Start by hanging out in amongst the jungle greens and admire the tropical vegetation. Here you can spot flora and fauna such as coconut palm trees and screwpines and many animal species such as butterflies, dragonflies, geckos, frigate birds, crabs and lizards. The resort’s important contribution to conservation and preservation of these animals can be seen best in their own Marine Discovery Centre where they have helped to rehabilitate sea turtles. Here you can also meet and learn from the several full-time biologists, scientific divers and researchers.&nbsp;Over a tropical lunch at the nearby beach club, make a booking for an afternoon trip in their Flying Triggerfish seaplane to get a birds-eye view of this buzzing atoll, or get inside the DeepFlight submarine for a different kind of trip underwater. Once back on land, relax on one of the many icing-sugar sand beaches that surround the lagoon and helps to shelter the area’s important hub of nature and biodiversity until the sun goes down. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/5342/image/large-8c00b1ef6047105262332ecf73212fa2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/5342">Day five: KanuhuraaWake up in the neighbouring atoll of Lhaviyani, a place where classical villas perch on stilts above the surface of the ocean. Anchor off the lovely island of Kanuhura to get involved in the area’s cool watersports scene for the day. Start on the beachfront, as it is ideal for learning to surf or spending time out on the paddleboard or kayak. Next, the superyacht crew can get you hooked up to the yacht’s Waverunners or jet skis for a more exhilarating ride out on the water. Go speeding out far enough to reach one of the next uninhabited islets, where the superyacht crew could catch you up with a hamper of refreshments and beach games to enjoy barefoot on the sand. &nbsp; &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/17489/image/large-ce89381dd3382ac05a9eb17916b3d94b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/17489">Recuperate back on board <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> and make use of the fully-equipped spa on the bridge deck, complete with a beauty salon and massage table. On the lower deck, guests can wander across the natural pebble flooring to the Finnish sauna before hopping into the Jacuzzi. After a cosy dinner, don your dancing shoes for a night at the Lhaviyani resort’s fancy nightclub.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/5353/image/large-0eb8d1ca2963682b460b47153b836acd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/5353">Day six: Kaashidhoo Island&nbsp;Further north, the island of Kaashidhoo is a lone Maldivian island and is the fifth largest in this tropical nation. Today will be spent getting to know the culture and history of the Maldives, starting with the island’s fruit plantations. Bananas, lemons and watermelons are grown here, so take the opportunity to buy as many as you like to be prepared and eaten for lunch that day. &nbsp; &nbsp;What makes this island so special is the excavations that have uncovered parts of a Buddhist monastery dating back to the 7th and 8th Centuries AD before the Islamic conversion. These monuments are being specially conserved, protecting them from erosion and weathering. &nbsp;Before the day ends, get on board the superyacht tender to get a new perspective of the area and lay of the land as the sun goes down, amplifying the island’s beauty and blue and green colours. &nbsp; &nbsp;<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69576/image/large-5f239b76b2bdf454cd8acbe7f577568f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69576">Day seven: DhiffushiNow back in the North Malé Atoll, wake up earlier to be one of the first people in the Maldives to experience the sunrise. As Dhiffushi is the most eastern inhabited island in the Maldives, those on the island get to witness sunrise first. Once the morning sun has warmed you up, take your snorkelling gear and have a refreshing dip along the few sandbanks around the island that offer some of the best snorkelling. Hours can be spent exploring the island's house reef, which is more than 10km long. On land, there are plenty of restaurants selling fresh produce and happy locals to get to know, or, take advantage of the last chance to pick up a few souvenirs from the tiny shops on one of the island’s shopping squares. After one last day in the sun, the slower, more relaxed island of Dhiffusi makes a fine charter refuge before a return to the happy mayhem of Malé.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69569/image/large-10f7b5841d03a1234f31d0029df5e6f6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69569">For the first time, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> is ready for charter the Indian Ocean with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial</a> this winter. For more information contact <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial</a> directly via the information found below. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/5354/image/large-65413e55f440a985f2cdf2069086951d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/5354">Top five tips&nbsp;<ul><li>Drop a line, find a deserted beach and enjoy a tropical sunset barbecue.</li><li>Dive the drop-off zone of the Ari Atoll for an astonishing encounter with some special sea life.</li><li>Visit the world’s first underwater nightclub on the island resort of Niyama.</li><li>Have a go and sample some of the world’s very best big game fishing.</li><li>Swim with dolphins, sharks, whales and turtles.</li></ul>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="/uploads/store/photo/55401/image/large-6524e9c9dfc37e22bf131ecc39bea57e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/55401"></a>This article is featured in the latest edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper. <a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription">Subscribe now&nbsp;</a>to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.

Cruising the Maldives onboard superyacht RoMEA

SYT breaks down the perfect itinerary for seven unforgettable days cruising around the Maldives on the 82m superyacht RoMEA.

Travel: Go back to the Maldives with superyacht RoMEA

As the year has passed its halfway point, this offers an excellent opportunity to pause, reflect on the past six months and to look forward to the remainder of the summer before the fabulous tumult of Monaco Yacht Show and the rest of the yachting season begins. To this end, we can introduce our July/August edition of The SuperYacht Times&nbsp;newspaper which is exclusively available<a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription">&nbsp;via subscription</a>. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/89060/image/large-7de5a100eccb7915afe1496378a68c42.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/89060">One owner who will be making the most of all that the warmer weather has to offer is the Swiss entrepreneur Clovis Défago who will be skippering his <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SanLorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo&nbsp;</a>108<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3911" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Skyline33.0m (108'3&quot;)SanLorenzo2014">&nbsp;Skyline&nbsp;</a>himself and cruising along the fabulous Croatian coastline down to Montenegro and back throughout the summer months. We learn more about this self-starter in our interview on page 40. Moving to the sailing side, Charl van Rooy catches up with the vibrant 80-year old Jürgen Friedrich, the proud owner of the stunning custom 60-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini&nbsp;</a>ketch <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4146" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seahawk60.0m (196'10&quot;)Perini Navi2013">Seahawk</a> during this year’s St Barths Bucket (p.38). <img src="/uploads/store/photo/89058/image/large-a6ef4f0aaa3d552703d53352e6db6b70.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/89058">The advent of summer also means, of course, that charter is the name of the game. Our cover star for this issue, the 136-metre Lürssen<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6424" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flying Fox136.0m (446'2&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2019">&nbsp;Flying Fox</a> is the largest yacht currently offered for charter in the world (admire her in more detail in our ‘In Pictures’ feature on pages 36-7), and we get the lowdown on what it’s really like to be a superyacht charter broker in our MYBA Charter Show interviews on page 46.&nbsp;In a first for The SuperYacht Times, this issue’s special section takes the form of our ‘Refit Report’ in which we approach this burgeoning market segment from various angles. Are we misusing the term ‘refit’ in the industry? Will Turkey become your next destination of choice for superyacht works? Why are yards investing so heavily in floating docks, synchro-lifts and new facilities? Discover the answers to these and more. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/89059/image/large-a09e11b13f788a3978de55645292019c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/89059">Finally, to get your fill of a truly beautiful big boat, turn to page 30 where we get up close and personal with the 85-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/778" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Golden Yachts Ltd. (Company)">Golden Yachts</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5958" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="O'Ptasia85.0m (278'10&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2018">O’Ptasia</a>&nbsp;- the largest superyacht from the yard to date and completed by the Greek builder in a record 28 months. Packed full of stylish, well-thought-out features, from her uncluttered beach house to her understated, modern interior by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/76" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Vafiadis (Company)">Studio Vafiadis</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5958" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="O'Ptasia85.0m (278'10&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2018">O’Psasia</a> is a yacht worth getting to know. For all of this, and much more, click the subscribe link below and get your copy delivered straight to your door.&nbsp; ALSO IN THIS ISSUE OF THE SUPERYACHT TIMES&nbsp;NEWSPAPER: &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Profile - Nick <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/293" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mulder Shipyard (Company)">Mulder</a> on keeping his family in the business Design Q&amp;A -&nbsp;Kicking back with Horacio Bozzo Travel -&nbsp;Get yourself to the magnificent Maldives on board <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA&nbsp;</a> The Interview -&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a> CEO Michele Gavino is a man on a mission &nbsp;... and much, much more.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="https://shop.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title=""><img src="/uploads/store/photo/55401/image/large-6524e9c9dfc37e22bf131ecc39bea57e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/55401"></a><a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription"></a>

New SuperYacht Times newspaper out now 

It's that time again - the July/August issue of The SuperYacht Times is now available. Find out what's inside!

Summer issue of The SuperYacht Times newspaper out now 

If you’re looking for the ultimate charter experience, it doesn’t get much better than<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">&nbsp;RoMEA.&nbsp;</a>Delivered by the German yard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/44" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeking & Rasmussen (Company)">Abeking &amp; Rasmussen&nbsp;</a>in 2015 and featuring interior and exterior design from the drawing boards of iconic British designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Terence Disdale Design (Company)">Terence Disdale</a>, this world-class superyacht combines luxurious, comfortable living spaces and a tasteful and functional interior with enviable performance and oceangoing capabilities, thanks to her range of 5,750 nautical miles and top speed of 16.9 knots. In other words, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> can take you anywhere in the world and will turn heads as she goes. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/69561/image/large-05ccb2e9ed4421a86a0f1a24180563d0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69561">Guests on board <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> can benefit from a wide range of amenities including her pool, sundecks, observation decks and al-fresco dining spaces complete with barbeque. She also comes equipped with a range of watersports equipment ideal for adventurous types who want to make the most of life on the water. To find out more about what makes <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> such a distinctive charter experience, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial</a>’s Julia Buklina, speaks with SuperYacht Times and reveals more about her time as a charter broker for this one-of-a-kind superyacht. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/69560/image/large-59e00f13b4ac1a6572994b1dc0207939.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69560">Tell me a bit about your background prior to joining&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial</a>&nbsp;and how you became involved in the yachting industry.I first started my career in private aviation. I am passionate about the beauties offered by the sky and so I decided to orient my professional path in this way. In 2009 I was granted the opportunity to join <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2208" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Imperial Yachts (Company)">Imperial,</a> which already had a fast-growing and dynamic reputation at that time, to develop the new Charter department. Thanks to my experience in private jets and my knowledge of UHNWI clients, this opportunity was an obvious choice. Here I’ve been let into a mysterious and fascinating world made of crystal-clear seas, endless oceans and unique yachts. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/69562/image/large-9c170f86e299c9c0dc516369c9cb3161.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69562">For the last 10 years, I’ve been in charge of all charter needs with my team, taking care of our central agencies such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> and offering retailing charter to our clients around the world as part of our services. From my point of view, I’m glad to have discovered the beauty of this world during the last 15 years of my career.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69557/image/large-d13992e111715ed33cf9198ce7a863b2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69557">What is your favourite thing about being a charter broker and why?&nbsp;This has to be the positive feedback from our clients. Receiving wonderful testimonials after their cruises helps us to maintain a positive mood on a daily basis. Charter is all about emotions: if the guests are feeling ‘at home’ on board on the yacht we centrally manage or a vessel we have found for them, it means that all our preparation work has been worth it.The charter broker is a very important part of the whole charter process: our main goal is to pair the right yacht in the right destination with the right client, making sure that their expectations will be reached and even exceeded. Sometimes it’s difficult to get a good idea of these requirements but it’s always exciting to push them as guests.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69563/image/large-3268e1be83c5f34659ebecaccf57921f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69563">When did you first meet&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a>&nbsp;and what were your first impressions?Our first meeting was right after her delivery in the summer of 2015. It was absolutely unique: she won me over with her pure style and incredible layout and amenities at the time - and she still does now!&nbsp;Her beautiful and traditional lines, her unique balance of harmony in every detail and her general atmosphere makes her a vessel on her own in her charter range. Every guest can find their own place in the small, magical world of this amazing superyacht. Working with such a vessel like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> as the flagship of our Imperial Central Agency Charter Fleet is still a pleasure after four years, and even now she continues to surprise me after every visit.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69567/image/large-78a8d667826334871d2a090c55fe69aa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69567">Tell me about some of the most exciting adventures guests have experienced on board&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA.</a>I can’t really pick one adventure: every successful journey on board <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> is the result of a massive team effort from our charter department, the Imperial operational team, and the professional, highly trained crew.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">&nbsp;RoMEA&nbsp;</a>has visited many interesting places between the Mediterranean, the Middle East and the Caribbean, exploring all the main island chains and cruising the coasts of Columbia and Mexico.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69550/image/large-1450d1b0287e0599f34815ee9e96cb66.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69550">Her captain is reputed for his knowledge and the impressive list of destinations he has cruised so far. He always does careful work on each and every itinerary so that the guests can see the most memorable places whatever the destination. If I had to pick one specific memory, the Christmas dinner we made on a remote island in the Caribbean around the Virgin Islands was an unforgettable moment that we offered to the guests on board.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69577/image/large-f74049493fbb5f34e357e9038f4ca3b0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69577"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/69576/image/large-5f239b76b2bdf454cd8acbe7f577568f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69576">Where, in your opinion, are the best places to travel on board&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA?&nbsp;</a>She can accommodate herself all around the world. With her technical facilities and luxury onboard entertainment, indoor and outdoor cinemas, spa area and beach club, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> is a great charter pick for any region. As part of her winter 2019/2020 charter plans, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> might visit the Indian Ocean for the first time. I am wondering what kind of surprises the crew will prepare for their guests in such interesting and in-demand area. <img src="/uploads/store/photo/69556/image/large-8ebc26dada2d580a46b099a259f1a847.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69556">What are the three things that make&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a>&nbsp;stand out as a charter yacht experience?Firstly, she has the most experienced, friendly and dynamic crew you could meet in the 80m+ charter range. They plan every detail for every charter to bring true happiness to their guests on board. We are proud to have built such a good onboard team, and the very positive feedback we receive from clients and brokers is proof that we are doing well.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69554/image/large-b4929936f5adb67e63f44ff57f7b154c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69554">Secondly, her expansive facilities, including a spa with exclusive products and fine treatments delivered by onboard specialists; the fantastic main deck saloon converting into a 5.1 cinema with a panoramic screen, built for ultimate relaxation, and of course her impressive selection of water toys that always provide huge enjoyment!<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69571/image/large-0a971a650bf633e72b6088af1c9b78bf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69571">Last but not least – her outstanding interior decorated with high-end luxury furniture from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Terence Disdale Design (Company)">Terence Disdale</a>. The atmosphere created by the British designer is really peaceful, warm and airy at the same time, making all guests feeling comfortable on board.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69578/image/large-e721f09de3a6f3f049e105812230477a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69578"><img src="/uploads/store/photo/69569/image/large-10f7b5841d03a1234f31d0029df5e6f6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69569">How is the upcoming season looking for&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA?</a>After her successful winter season in the Caribbean, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA&nbsp;</a>will head back to the Mediterranean at the end of April and she plans to visit the Adriatic, East and West Med this summer. It will be not possible to see these regions with the same eyes after having chartered on board<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">&nbsp;RoMEA.</a>&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA&nbsp;</a>will also be available for this year's Monaco Grand Prix and the Cannes Film Festival<img src="/uploads/store/photo/69570/image/large-422a60ed1d6fc4ab1ae3abdda9846a27.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69570">Is there anything else you would like to add?One of the main comments that always pops up in the feedback we receive from our clients is that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a> feels like a second home. After spending a journey on board, they want to come back again and again, it makes us very proud. As most of our clients say after their journey: “you don’t really know what a luxury superyacht is until you have spent a journey at sea with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RoMEA81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking & Rasmussen2015">RoMEA”</a><img src="/uploads/store/photo/69574/image/large-b965e87453825322ab70947d70f570d1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/69574">

On board superyacht RoMEA for charter 

SYT speaks to the charter broker of superyacht RoMEA to find out what makes this Terence Disdale-designed vessel so special. 

Roaming the open seas on superyacht RoMEA 

<img src="/uploads/store/photo/42445/image/large-b1b012b66ed4ca287d812722acc5b3af.JPG" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/42445">Seen here anchored on a rainy summer morning off Antibes is one of the largest custom superyachts built at Abeking &amp; Rasmussen, the 81-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4094" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kibo81.0m (265'9&quot;)">Kibo</a>. Terence Disdale is the designer of the yacht, and just like her sistership <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romea81.8m (268'4&quot;)">Romea</a>, is behind for both the interior and exterior of the project. The highly private yacht offers accommodation in four identical double guest cabins as well as a VIP forward on the main deck. One deck above is the owner’s stateroom, which offers 180-degree views forward.

The 81m superyacht Kibo in Antibes

<img src="/uploads/store/photo/31707/image/large-8afc30a394575a82b958f6d8321b04b2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/31707">Romea in the Bahamas&nbsp;Built by German shipyard Abeking &amp; Rasmussen and completed in 2015, pictured here is the 81.8-metre superyacht Romea enjoying the Bahamas this last winter. She is designed by the British studio of Terence Disdale Design, who was also responsible for the design of her sister ship, Kibo. Powered by twin CAT 3516C engines, Romea&nbsp;comfortably cruises at 14 knots and is able to reach a maximum speed of 16.9 knots. Her 5,750 nm range means that nearly any destination is within reach for her guests.Photo by Romea crew for Imperial

The 81.8m superyacht Romea in the Bahamas

<img src="/uploads/store/photo/16918/image/large-61f2d0e69e3162b2696aeccf8b21d2cd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16918">Romea was built by Abeking &amp; Rasmussen and delivered to her owner in June 2015. She shares a similar exterior design with her sister ship, Kibo, both designed by Terence Disdale. &nbsp;Some of her on board features include two cinemas; one in the main salon and another outside on bridge deck aft, and a spa saloon on the upper deck. Her grand deck spaces make her one of the finest charter yachts in her size range.<a href="https://www.instagram.com/danpiraino/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Photo by Daniel Piraino</a>

The 82m Romea in the Bahamas

Established in 2004, Imperial Yachts has rapidly grown over the past 12 years to be one of the most well respected full-service brokerage companies in the industry. Offering a 360 degree service to a number of high-profile clients all over the world, just some of their most notable new build projects over the past few years include the flagship of the Imperial fleet, the 82-metre Abeking &amp; Rasmussen-built <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4454" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romea81.8m (268'4&quot;)Abeking &amp; Rasmussen2015">RoMEA</a>, the 60-metre iconic Amels-built <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3670" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Event62.4m (204'9&quot;)Amels2013">Event</a>, and the 73.5-metre Nobiskrug-built <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1714" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dytan73.55m (241'4&quot;)Nobiskrug2012">Flying Fox</a> (ex: Graffiti).<img src="/uploads/store/photo/22315/image/large-a4c645f89bd69b7ca71c846649ec1d70.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/22315">Imperial have tantalisingly commented that the superyacht deliveries they have scheduled for the foreseeable future are certain to constitute some of the major launches of this decade - ensuring a busy period ahead for the 50-strong Imperial team in both Monaco and Moscow. Here we talk to CEO, Evgeniy Kochman, and Director, Julia Stewart, in a rare candid interview about the philosophy of the Imperial Yachts brand, their insights into the state of the superyacht market, and why Imperial are confident that the future of superyachts lies in the 200+ metre segment.Imperial Yachts is a family owned business. Tell us more about how the responsibilities are split between you.Evgeniy: Being family-owned is an important element of Imperial, actually. For our clients, it gives another element of trust to what we’re doing. With a family business, you’re putting your name on the line, and responsibilities are all yours, together. I’m CEO, and Julia is the Director and is responsible for the legal part of the company. Julia is the tough one.Julia: I think the most successful family business is a business where all responsibilities are ultimately divided between everyone. It’s a more productive business model. So I deal mostly with the running of the Monaco office which is the heart of our operation. We deal a lot with the legal structures, the contracts, the issues of the VAT, the import, the exports, and the relationships with the banks, which are hugely important. We also deal with recruitment and other new trends.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/49201/image/large-dea89e31689441d1f686019576c03709.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/49201">Tell us the Imperial Yachts story.Evgeniy: We started in 2001 in Russia with much smaller boats. From the start, we experienced quite a lot of success, because when we opened our doors there was a growing market in the country. We opened up with the Regal yachts from Azimut. In just a couple of years’ time, we were selling up to 30 boats per year. It was really booming and we were in a unique position.I then decided we needed to develop our business of yacht distribution in Russia, so we looked at Princess. In Russia, something produced or manufactured in the UK holds more weight that Britain's neighbouring countries. We started distributing Princess’ yachts, and we quickly became one of the biggest distributors in the Princess family. In the best years we were selling up to 40 quite big boats.In 2005 we had grown so much that we had to develop our business to meet our clients’ needs. We decided to offer a full management service, and that’s how Imperial was born. We’re different from other companies in this way, as we’re actually more of a management company, with brokerage as part of the service we offer.Imperial Yachts is quite mysterious to the average industry professional. Do you like to keep it that way?Evgeniy: Yes, well, this is the first interview we’ve ever taken actually. I don’t really like interviews…Julia: And, of course, discretion is key in the business. But people know that we have a wonderful reputation and that we’re one of the best brands on the market, the mystery is the who, how, what and why behind that.If we look at Imperial’s track record, there are a lot of new build projects and brokerage sales were you represented the CA. Is new build something your clients are typically very interested in?Evgeniy: Yes - we grow with our clients like parents with babies. They do tend to like new build projects and that is reflective of one of our strongest qualities, the fact that we have a lot of knowledge regarding construction and that we competently manage these boats once they’ve been delivered. In the past 12 years, only two clients have left us for another well-respected company. They returned to us after a short while - they know the difference in service is insane!<img src="/uploads/store/photo/31707/image/large-8afc30a394575a82b958f6d8321b04b2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/31707">You have sold a lot of Amels projects. Is the Amels model of building on speculation particularly interesting to you because of these demanding requirements from you clients?Evgeniy: Damen and Amels both have a great business model in which they build very good, very high-quality yachts. We’ve focused on Amels because we’ve visited the yard and in terms of price, quality and delivery times, they’re one of the best shipyards out there. We have excellent relationships with all Dutch and German shipyards.Superyachts are getting bigger and bigger each year, and there has been a substantial amount of talk regarding the development of 200+ metre projects. What’s your view on this size range becoming a reality?Evgeniy: We’ve seen that our clients are definitely growing, and yes, the market in general is growing. If somebody told you 10 years ago that you would see the amount of vessels that there are on the market today, they wouldn’t have believed you, but these deals are happening. The middle-sized yacht has jumped from 60 to 90-metres. In 10 years or so there will be a lot of deals happening in the 200+ metre market.Do you think that is realistic?Evgeniy: Yes, I will make it happen. That is our target - we’ll make sure we invite you to the first launch of the 200-metre Imperial yacht! But seriously, we are finding more and more clients who are seriously interested in going to this size, so yes I do think it’s realistic. We have a target to make this a reality within the next 10 to 15 years. We need to move the world towards another direction.Lürssen is the obvious choice, but are there other shipyards where you would consider undertaking such a project?Evgeniy: In regards to infrastructure and the ability to manage a project of that size, I think that, at the moment, Lürssen is the only yard truly capable of executing such a project. We’ve worked with them since 2009. Peter Lürssen has this incredible energy and could definitely manage yachts of these sizes. Of course, many yards in Italy could also say that they could do it, but I don’t think I would advise a client to go anywhere but Germany for this scale of a project.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/63029/image/large-c467dcb8bb952dcf2204fe6ea0e2822d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/63029">Is the 100+ metre market difficult?Evgeniy: I don’t think it’s a difficult market. These days it’s a good investment, and the very wealthy people who purchase these boats do not want to wait. If it’s the right project with the right shipyard and the right design and specifications, you will be successful. Look at the recent sale of the Fincantieri boat, which after four years of usage was sold relatively quickly. The owner did not want to wait for five years to enjoy his new boat.Do you think some shipyards should build 100+ metre projects on speculation?Evgeniy: I do not think that many of these shipyards have the financial resources to really put that into action. So no, I would not recommend it. I would tell them to use Imperial Yachts!With your extensive knowledge of yacht construction, would you ever consider starting your own shipyard?Evgeniy: I can tell you, more or less every client of mine has said to me, ‘Evgeniy, let’s run a shipyard. You are doing so well, let’s do it.’ Running a shipyard is a very difficult business with a huge financial risk which is determined by the state of the economy, which will go down again eventually. It’s obviously nice to buy yards when the economy is growing, but we see that the worldwide economy is not so good currently.So at the moment, we’re not ready to be a shipyard. We need to concentrate on what we are doing, and there are some areas of improvement - which of course is natural. If anyone ever tells you they are the best, run.<img src="/uploads/store/photo/65180/image/large-d515196d2c65a4d6365cf6fbf8195055.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/65180">Where do you see the superyacht market headed in the next five years?Evgeniy: I think from an exterior design perspective, we’ll see some very interesting projects. Ten years ago everything looked the same, more or less. Now we see some real stand-out exterior design features. It’s very niche when something is so different to the others. Sizes of the projects will also definitely be bigger. There’s a trend we’re seeing at the moment from a certain group of people in larger and larger gross tonnage.Can you shed light on some of the projects that are currently underway at Imperial?Evgeniy: We’ve got a lot of projects in Holland at the moment and we have a few projects in build which will be coming very soon… actually, every year for the next five years. They’re all big projects of 110-metres and upwards.

Behind the scenes with Evgeniy Kochman from Imperial

Evgeniy Kochman, the founder and CEO of Imperial Yachts comments on the superyacht industry and provide us with unique insights.

Insight: behind-the-scenes with Imperial's CEO: Evgeniy Kochman

The state-of-the-art superyacht Romea has been roaming the seas since her delivery at the Abeking &amp; Rasmussen shipyard in July 2015. She soon after made her world premier at the prestigious Monaco Yacht Show where SYT were invited on board to experience her generous living spaces and tasteful and functional interior first hand.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160810/image/large-32c7b6d1d9463d5d6c910b2fdbad4b87.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160810">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160811/image/large-33726e36733d45c5408a45f057c1d808.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160811">

As with her sister ship Kibo,Terence Disdale is the man behind the yacht’s interior and exterior design. Her purposeful and masculine lines demand attention where ever she goes and leaves a lingering sense of gracefulness and elegance as she cruises out of the Monaco port with nothing but the glistening moonlight reflection in her wake. Her sea worthiness and ocean going capabilities are testaments to the fine build quality that the German shipyard offers, but also the immense attention to detail and guest comfort that the British design studio approach their projects with. Romea is created to feel as in place cruising the tranquil Norwegian fjords as she is crossing the Bering Sea.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160812/image/large-c4aa6410e4ab74b9a5d5bea3d0c8d904.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160812">

The fun starts on the sundeck where guests can choose between two separate outdoor areas that is divided by a single indoor space that houses the grand central staircase that leads one down to the main deck three levels below. The forward section is reserved for sunbathing and relaxing in the oversized pool while sunset cocktails can be enjoyed from the comfort of the aft sundeck area.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160813/image/large-5483a5d0f955a8a8830a928022e30863.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160813">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160814/image/large-c026e91544312099acb9b30ba0813584.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160814">

Guests can enjoy a late night movie experience while relaxing in Romea’s outdoor cinema on the bridge deck aft.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160815/image/large-bde1fe3ae5de1884e5dc90b71f627730.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160815">

The upper observation deck below is the ideal area on board for large family dining experiences. The deck provides ample space for entertainment with various social areas where guests can relax while enjoying the spectacular view from three levels above the waterline.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160816/image/large-2aa8a070d3a8c2a45ddd60d966d328fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160816">

Disdale’s true handiwork becomes all too evident the moment one steps inside Romea. Guest areas are cladded in an abundance of natural surfaces each with its own unique texture, shape and form. Exotic woods, rare masonry, metals and leathers are combined to create a luxury home-away-from-home experience that perfectly suites the stretched dimensions of each living and accommodation space on board that makes Romea so perfect for hosting family-sized groups of guests.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160817/image/large-98f688698d6127ff1912f4e70edb8ead.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160817">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160818/image/large-637a2256a24902d199807e7832ac8c9d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160818">

The main deck saloon is characterised by oversized custom furniture pieces that is symmetrically aligned and leads one through to the dining area and on to the grand staircase ahead. Original artworks and adds a touch of colour to the otherwise cream-toned leather and upholstered areas.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160819/image/large-047b2b98bd84e9b8ddeb28bb8ad9764a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160819">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160820/image/large-ede4901cf82faac26be3fc5690a51877.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160820">

The grand staircase spirals around the on board lift that connects the four guest decks all the way to the sun deck outside.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160821/image/large-bd31641643ca111eb7bae4d99236046d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160821">

Romea’s dedicated spa area takes up prime on board space where it is located on bridge deck aft. Often placed on main deck or in the beach club at water level, this wellness centre is at the heart of the Romea experience and its primary location proves just that.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160822/image/large-3198d9d67418dde869223ed1718a483c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160822">

Twelve guests are catered for on board Romea across five lavish guest staterooms on main deck with the ultimate owner’s penthouse apartment forward on the upper deck. A dedicated children’s cabin forms part of the owner’s apartment along with a private study area and two separate, enormous en suite bathrooms for him and her.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160823/image/large-d52b38654fb6164a5269fa907f1d997b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160823">

Guest staterooms are richly furnished and form ideal retreats for close and extended family members by creating a luxurious and private area to relax or attend to some office duties from on board their new floating home.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160824/image/large-4c284101069f6114f51955de97098874.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160824">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160825/image/large-edad5904d8e0e92731fca720faf92df9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160825">

The outdoors will soon be calling however and Romea’s beach club is the on board spot for guests to receive their daily dose of fun and adventure. Her crew efficiently prepares an exciting day out on the water with activities including a high-speed trip on one of the four jet skis, a leisurely sail on the Laser Pasco sailboat, cooling down in the floating swimming pool or going on an underwater adventure by making use of the on board SCUBA diving sets. A 5.9 metre sports tender is on standby to take guests on a high speed tow on any of the numerous inflatable toys in stock. Getting to shore is a stylish affair, with a 9.6 metre limousine tender and an 8.5 metre beach lander making sure guests always arrive in style and comfort.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160826/image/large-3f9ce90f4435c77b8efa217f852241ff.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160826">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160827/image/large-eeeccd1c5280ff387a4826b1d7d50bc4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160827">

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160828/image/large-51cf189574212e9177867a52d337801e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160828">

Powered by twin Caterpillar 3516C engines, Romea comfortably cruises at 14 knots and is able to reach a maximum speed of 16.9 knots. Her 5,750 nm range means that nearly any destination is within reach for Romea. Her zero-speed stabilisers make life on board a real pleasure no matter the weather.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160829/image/large-7b78a7d01afc0fa29a312239f659c259.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160829">

The stunning Romea is now exclusively available for charter through Imperial at a weekly rate of EUR 875,000. To learn more about the yacht, visit them <a href="http://imperial-yachts.com/yachts/romea/" target="_blank">here</a>.

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/160830/image/large-d24036c270787e06a69e7273e6f28a80.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/160830">

Superyacht of the Week: the majestic 82m RoMEA

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156677/image/large-d3fb8bd364b1648187b6236b8ec8012d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156677">Superyacht RoMea in Monaco The 81.8m RoMea was built at the German shipyard Abeking &amp; Rasmiussen and delivered in June this year. She shares a similar exterior design with her sister ship, KIbo, both designed by Terence Disdale Design Ltd. Her 12 guests are accommodated across 6 guest suites and a forward facing full-beam owner’s suite on the upper deck. Some of her on board features include two cinemas; one in the main salon and another outside on bridge deck aft, and a spa saloon on the upper deck. RoMea is for charter through Imperial Yachts, with weekly charter rates starting at EUR 875,000. Here she is seen entering Monaco’s Port Hercule ahead of the 2015 Monaco Yacht Show.By Charl van Rooy

81.80m Abeking & Rasmussen superyacht Romea in Monaco

As the official superyacht Data &amp; Intelligence media partner, SuperYacht iQ, the new intelligence division of SuperYacht Company, has analysed the 121 exhibting superyachts that will be on display at the Monaco Yacht Show later this week.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/156250/image/large-5f94c953ba2d890c132ff17347e20147.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/156250">Of the 121 yachts present, 104 are motor yachts, with 17 sailing yachts. The total length of all yachts on display is 5.7 kilometres with an average length of 47 metres. The yachts have been built in no less than 16 different countries by 68 different shipyards.Lürssen’s 85.10m superyacht Solandge will again be the largest yacht on display at this year’s show, followed closely by the 81.80m Romea, delivered by Abeking &amp; Rasmussen earlier this year. The newly launched 43.13m Sea Eagle by Royal Huisman will be on display with the largest sailboat at the show, the 57.49m Twizzle, also built by the Dutch shipyard.The total value of all the yachts on display this year is € 3 billion, with an average value of € 25 million per yacht. If we compare the motor yachts to the sailing yachts; the average length of a motor yacht attending the show is 48 metres, while sailing yachts have an average length of 39 metres. There is also a difference in value, with the average motor yacht value coming in at € 26.6 million, while the average value of a sailing yacht is € 14.6 million.By Merijn de Waard

MYS Exclusive: € 3 Billion worth of superyachts on display

Imperial Yachts, the management company in charge of the charter operations for Abeking &amp; Rasmussen’s latest delivery, Romea, has released the first images of the yacht, displaying a tasteful interior decorated using a mix of natural and contemporary materials throughout her vast guest areas.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155966/image/large-28b4c5ac78349558f15517488fe0a15c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155966">Launched in February this year, Romea is designed by Terence Disdale, and shares a similar exterior design with her sistership, superyacht Kibo. The same British design studio created her interior spaces which can be seen for the first time in these images.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155967/image/large-02f2d76caabada135ff240c989055b0e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155967">She accommodates 12 guests in her full beam owner’s suite, and 6 staterooms. Some of her on board guest features include two cinemas; one in the main salon, and another outside on bridge deck aft, and a spa saloon on the upper deck.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155968/image/large-5877c35d8faf3eb69d44fb7dbaac7979.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155968">She is well equiped for exciting days on the water, with a wide selection of watersports equipment, managed by her professional crew, and a grand beach club fitted with its own sauna.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155969/image/large-7339e2e1fe3453f9af2b2803db49a476.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155969"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155970/image/large-5d0442c50009abaf3a855515458c8bc6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155970">Romea is for charter through Imperial Yachts, with weekly charter rates starting at EUR 875,000.By Charl van Rooy

First look onboard 81.8m superyacht Romea

Superyachts Romea and Aquila were spotted together last month in the UK, when both yachts made a stop at the Isle of Man. The yachts were seen together in Douglas Bay, where the brand new Abeking &amp; Rasmussen 82 metre Romea anchored out, and the 85.6 metre Aquila was in the port, following her Atlantic crossing. The Isle of Man has seen an increasing number of superyacht visitors, Tatoosh was one of her more recent visitors. Aquila has now made her way to the Pendennis shipyard, and Romea is in the South of France.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155154/image/large-e2f3778d05045be7551890e51bb0ee3f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155154"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155155/image/large-88bb2a9b9841f209fe998219286080be.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155155"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155156/image/large-975d0551bbb3e2c385418f5db81dda91.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155156"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155157/image/large-34099931b9d8f27c314860577ea2fa91.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155157"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155158/image/large-df77339f2a4fb030ddd63a9270e8cef3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155158"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155159/image/large-9ecaf6fad724e2ddf9e0760999082a3d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155159"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155160/image/large-9c72337bf64f91db3eef7445b7629770.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155160"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155161/image/large-332b2694e865274781b54cc7049f9281.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155161"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155162/image/large-b3ca36aeb708971ef427c5114c070ecd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155162"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155163/image/large-2d1bf38f6f9ecb96921006edabb5d22f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155163"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155164/image/large-4161f95aecd0ca3bf923522bbc388ec2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155164"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155165/image/large-5c1b343094543ffa18300b15f7ff344a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155165">By Maarten Janssen, photos by Nick Horsthuis

In Pictures: Romea and Aquila in Douglas Bay, Isle of Man

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/154800/image/large-05f9b37891adc25ce5ef41657ff9addd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/154800">Superyacht Kibo in the South of FranceOn Friday, we reported that superyacht Romea was delivered by Abeking &amp; Rasmussen. She is a sistership to superyacht Kibo, seen in this photo, taken in the South of France in the summer of 2014. The 81.8 metre Kibo is designed by Terence Disdale Design and at the moment is the third largest yacht that has been delivered by A&amp;R. Kibo offers accommodation in four identical double guest cabins as well as a VIP forward on the main deck. One deck up, is the owner’s stateroom, which offers 180-degree views forward. It is still unknown if her sistership Romea has the same layout.By Maarten Janssen, photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/julien_hubert" target="_blank">Julien Hubert</a>

Superyacht Kibo underway

The 81.80 metre five deck superyacht project Dartwo, built by German shipyard Abeking &amp; Rasmussen and launched early February, has been renamed Romea, and she is currently cruising in Norway, which means she is most probably delivered to her owners, although this has not yet been confirmed. The yacht left Germany yesterday.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Se86qxSyBgI" width="560"></iframe>The yacht features both exterior and interior design by the world renowned studio Terence Disdale Design Ltd, and is a sistership to the 81 metre Kibo which was launched in 2014. She has been constructed with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, and has a gross tonnage of 2,300 GRT. Specific details about the yacht are still being kept private for the time being.By Maarten Janssen

81.8 metre superyacht Romea delivered

Pictured here are two new photographs of the 81.80 metre five deck superyacht Dartwo. Built by German shipyard Abeking &amp; Rasmussen and launched early February, she features both exterior and interior design by the world renowned studio Terence Disdale Design Ltd.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152911/image/large-432623920e333da6c59ae9816c79ae09.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152911">Dartwo is a sistership to the 81 metre Kibo which was launched in 2014, and is the largest yacht the shipyard have ever produced.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/152912/image/large-5d6467a6c5043b3c17266fc37333818c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/152912">She has been constructed with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, and has a gross tonnage of 2,300 GRT. Specific details about the yacht are still being kept private for the time being.By Gemma Fottles, Photos by Martin Fischbacher

New photos of superyacht Dartwo

Abeking &amp; Rasmussen have launched hull number 6498, a sistership of hull 6497, the 81.8 metre superyacht Kibo. The new yacht, named Dartwo, is also designed by multi-award winning Terence Disdale Design, and was successfully launched earlier this week.<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="4" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;">
<div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"> </div></div>
<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://instagram.com/p/yjk6kSk4wi/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_top">Een foto die is geplaatst door Gunnar Behncke (@gunnarshoot)</a> op <time datetime="2015-02-01T10:52:43+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">1 Feb 2015 om 2:52 PST</time>
</div></blockquote> Details of Dartwo are still being kept under wraps.

Abeking & Rasmussen launch 81.8 metre Dartwo

A large new superyacht hull was seen at Stahlbau Nord in Bremerhaven in Germany, ready to be transported to Lemwerder. We believe the hull is of a 80m+ superyacht, to be finished at Abeking &amp; Rasmussen.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143495/image/large-4e556f27676b09761273e961d4ce7c85.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143495"> <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143496/image/large-d7cece7a3ce84962dda3f01db33d3491.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143496"><img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143497/image/large-d3435450e9c051ad01d018b47f954382.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143497"> <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/143498/image/large-647fb450d4cbd9cf6af3b2fc07ac039b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/143498">Abeking &amp; Rasmussen currently have two 81 metre yachts on order, hulls 6497 and 6498, both scheduled for delivery in 2014, although it is not confirmed this particular hull is either of these two orders.By Maarten Janssen, photos by Martin Fischbacher