The New York Times has named the owner of 134-meter Serene to be Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia's deputy crown prince. Serene was previously owned by Russian billionaire, Yuri Shefler who sold the megayacht to the crown prince in the summer of 2014. According to an associate of Mr. Shefler and a Saudi close to the royal family, Prince bin Salman had first spotted the 440-foot yacht whilst vacationing in the south of France. Interested in the megayacht, he dispatched an aide to buy the ship and the deal was supposedly done within hours at a price of near €500 million with Mr Shefler moving out of the yacht on the same day according to the New York Times.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) received an emergency call from 37m yacht, Masteka 2 at 5am on October 1st. According to the Maritime Herald, the vessel started getting water ingress and lost steering gear near New South Wales, Australia. Six people were on board at the time of the incident. The cruise ship Carnival Spirit, which was en route to New Caledonia, responded after the alert came in. The passenger vessel evacuated two crew members from Masteka 2 using their fast rescue boat. Engineers from the cruise ship assisted the rest of the crew in the salvage operation and stopped the water intake. The yacht was stabilized and under control, waiting for local authorities to dispatch a tug to tow it to the nearest harbor.
The Daily Mail has shared the pictures of 142m S/Y A on her sea trials. The vessel, owned by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko, was built at Nobiskrug in Kiel. At the end of August Mr Melnichenko came to the German shipyard and the two A has finally met. With masts taller than Big Ben, she is worth an estimated $450million. During the sea trials, S/Y A has built up a speed of 20 knots despite of the fact that her three sails have not yet been revealed.
On 27th October 2016 Lurssen launched 123m Project Jupiter at its facility in Bremen, Germany. She features a very sporty and aggressive look similar to the owner's first yacht. With exterior design by H2 Yacht Design and interiors by March & White the yacht is scheduled for delivery in spring 2017. For both design teams this is their first Lürssen yacht, and the collaboration between all parties, including Winterbothams technical services and Y.CO Management team, has worked extremely well. March & White have designed a contemporary interior throughout the vessel defined by timeless styling, nautical details and highly innovative bespoke finishes.
With a beam of 20m her interior atrium opens up the center of the yacht to pull natural light deep into the yacht.
As you might know, The New York Times has recently named the owner of 134-meter Serene to be Saudi Arabia's deputy crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman. Russian billionaire, Yuri Shefler had commissioned Serene from Italy-based Fincantieri back in 2006 according to Italian media. In 2014, Fincantieri launched its second megayacht, the 140-meter Ocean Victory which was commissioned by another Russian oligarch, Viktor Rashnikov. Prior to its launch in December 2014 however, Fincantieri was ordered to pay €20.9 million to Serena Equity Limited (the company controlled by Shefler that owned Serene) by London courts. Shefler's main claim was that Fincantieri had used Serene, on which the billionaire says he holds intellectual property, to develop Ocean Victory which he says is a near sistership.
When reading about megayachts, it is easy to forget the actual scale of these vessels, often comparable with that of military and cruise ships. Here are a few images that show just how enormous these yachts are.
If you've ever been to the MIPIM real estate show or the Cannes Lions advertising festival, you've probably seen some of the most famous brands such as MailOnline or Yahoo chartering a superyacht to act as their local headquarters. Booked up to 9 months in advance, according to Bespoke Yacht Charter Broker, Alexander Coles, event charters offer a myriad of advantages for such companies during these trade shows. Synonymous with wealth and power, the yacht itself can act as a canvas for a company's brand, significantly increasing its standing during the show through the use of banners, flags, custom carpets and lots more.
The latest edition of the Monaco Yacht Show came to a close 6 days ago after 4 action-packed days for the Principality, writing the 26th chapter of a story full of ups and downs. The Monaco Yacht Show was initially created by Maurice Cohen, head of Media Plus and creator of several other shows. The French entrepreneur however later sold the rights to the show in 1994 to IIR, a show management company that, at the time, owned a competing event, the Superyacht de Nice which has since slipped into oblivion. By 2002, the show boasted 65 yachts, half of the number of yachts in Port Hercules this year, with the 62-meter Lady Lola as a headliner. 300 onshore exhibitors had already taken up booths by this 12th edition and spanned over an area of 4,500 square meters, attracting near 15,000 visitors.
Dutch Yachting has shared the new photos of the latest Oceanco sailing yacht Y712. 106m superyacht hit the water for the first time at the Keppel Verolme shipyard in Rotterdam on September 19. She is Holland's largest yacht to date as 110m Project Jubilee is currently under construction at Oceanco. Nuvolari Lenard Design is responsible for both the exterior and interior design and Oceanco & Dykstra Naval Architects for the naval architecture. The three DynaRig masts will power the 2,700 GT full-rigged sailing yacht to more than 20 knots.
Earlier this week Chinese conglomerate, Lai Sun Group acquired 49.9% of Camper and Nicholsons International for €13 million in what became the latest deal in a series of yacht-related acquisitions led by Chinese beneficiaries. The deal turned out to be a major financial success for Camper and Nicholsons' majority stakeholder, Colosseum Services, a Swiss luxury-goods company that had acquired the brokerage firm for a mere sum of €1 million following the liquidation of Rodriguez Group in 2014. It didn't however become the first time a struggling company in yachting was saved by Chinese behemoths.
Camper & Nicholsons has announced the exclusive listing of the Benetti yacht New Waves for sale. Represented by sales advisor Maël Fiolet, this 42.00m is a Benetti Fast 140 yacht, delivered in 2015 and maintained in pristine condition by a private family. Designed by Stefano Righini, the yacht features a tri-deck configuration, blending quality construction with Italian design.The exterior offers ample space for various activities. The sundeck includes areas for dining, lounging, and a bar. At the aft, a beach club with a large swim platform provides easy water access. Additional exterior spaces include the main deck aft and a forward deck with sunbeds and a hot tub.Inside, the yacht features a bright and elegant interior designed by RWD, with enhancements by Wolterinck in 2017. The layout accommodates 10 guests in five cabins, including a full-beam owner’s cabin on the main deck with a private study and dressing area. The lower deck houses two spacious VIP cabins and two double cabins. The main saloon and upper deck sky lounge offer additional socializing spaces, with the main saloon accommodating dining for up to 10 guests.New Waves underwent a full repaint in 2024 following an extensive refit and has been regularly maintained and upgraded. The yacht complies with MCA LY3 commercial standards and is offered for sale with full EU VAT paid.Currently available for viewings by appointment in Palma, Spain, New Waves asking price EUR 16,500,000, with VAT paid.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
May 31, 2024
Ferretti Group and Flexjet have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at combined growth in the luxury segment. The agreement was announced at the Venice Boat Show, where Ferretti Group showcased a fleet of 10 models, including the world premieres of the Custom Line Navetta 38 and Pershing GTX 80.The partnership connects the expertise of Ferretti Group in luxury yacht building with Flexjet's leadership in private aviation. This collaboration targets Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWIs), offering them exclusive benefits and unique events. Both companies share a commitment to excellence in performance, design, and service.Under this agreement, Ferretti Group clients will have access to Flexjet's global fleet of over 300 private jets and helicopters. This includes the Gulfstream G650, Praetor 600, and Sikorsky S-76 in Europe. Clients will also enjoy access to Flexjet’s private terminals in key locations such as Teterboro, New York; Naples, Florida; and Van Nuys, California.Conversely, Flexjet clients will gain VIP access to global boat shows, private tours of Ferretti Group’s Riva shipyard, and preferential terms on Riva Brand Experience products and accessories. The partnership also promises shared presence at international boat shows and high-profile events, including Ferretti Group’s Private Preview in Monaco and Flexjet’s VIP viewing experience at the Palio di Siena.The collaboration will also see the creation of a Riva-inspired interior for one of Flexjet’s Gulfstream G650 aircraft, reflecting Flexjet’s bespoke LXi Cabin Collection interiors.Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group, remarked, "People who love cruising on Ferretti Group yachts expect standards of absolute excellence when they fly too, which is why I’m so pleased to associate our name with Flexjet, a partner that shares our same passion and desire to offer customers an increasingly rewarding experience. Venice is the ideal showcase to celebrate this important agreement."Kenn Ricci, Chairman of Flexjet, added, "This exciting partnership takes the decades-long expertise and luxury brand power from leaders in two complementary sectors, and combines them to present today’s UHNWI audience with a set of exclusive and unique advantages. I have been a huge admirer of Ferretti Group’s philosophy for many years, and we share a deep understanding of what it takes to deliver a truly exceptional luxury experience. I’m excited to see how this significant strategic alliance can lift our offerings to even greater heights of excellence."The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credit: Ferretti Group
May 31, 2024
The 70-meter superyacht, Project Thunderball, is now under construction, showcasing a collaboration between three industry leaders: Dutch design studio Vripack, Italian shipyard CRN, and Nauta Design. This custom yacht is designed for efficient and comfortable cruising, with features tailored for long voyages and regatta support.Vripack is responsible for the yacht's elegant exterior and naval architecture. The design includes an optimized hull, elongated bow, and a refined profile with classic elements. The yacht also features a peak shaving system to enhance energy efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. Nauta Design's interiors draw inspiration from the sea, incorporating geometric shapes that complement the exterior.Project Thunderball will be a steel and aluminum yacht with five decks, an 11-meter beam, and accommodation for 12 guests and 15 crew members. The yacht's design includes sharp entry lines and curved bilges, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency.Marnix Hoekstra, co-creative director of Vripack, commented, “Our focus was on delivering a yacht that guarantees highly economical cruising and a soft and comfortable ride, all of which is made possible by our most efficient hull lines to date and our sailing experience.”The yacht was sold by Y.CO in August 2022, with construction beginning in early 2023. Initial designs were developed as early as 2018. In May 2023, the yacht was transported to the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona, where a full hull 3D scan was performed. The build has now moved into the outfitting stage, which includes carpentry, machinery fitting, and installation of on-board systems and furniture. The exterior hull will also be primed and painted.Project Thunderball is scheduled for delivery in 2026. The yacht will serve not only as a luxury vessel for extended cruises but also as a support vessel for the owner's sailing yacht during regattas.Vripack is a yacht-design studio with a portfolio that represents over 7400 designs, made strong through its extensive naval architecture and engineering experience. From the moment they opened their doors in 1961, Vripack studio’s approach to design has been governed by the playful interaction between form and function.Credits: Vripack
May 31, 2024
IYC has announced a new partnership with Sunreef Yachts, appointing IYC as the Exclusive Commercial Agent for Sunreef Yachts in the United Kingdom. This strategic alliance aims to enhance IYC's offerings in the luxury yachting market and reinforce its commitment to providing exceptional yachting experiences.Raphael Sauleau, CEO of IYC, remarked, "This appointment marks a new chapter for our team in the United Kingdom. Sunreef Yachts is renowned for its superior craftsmanship and commitment to sustainability, and this partnership enhances our portfolio with some of the most forward-thinking and environmentally conscious yachts available today. We look forward to working with the Sunreef Yachts team of professionals."Francis Lapp, CEO and Founder of Sunreef Yachts, stated, "We are thrilled to announce our new exclusive dealership with IYC for the UK market. As we continue to strengthen our presence, it is crucial to have strong and experienced representation in such a significant market. IYC's expertise and dedication align perfectly with our vision for delivering unparalleled luxury and innovation to our discerning clients in the UK."Richard Gray, Head of Sales for IYC in the UK, added, "Our partnership with Sunreef Yachts marks another milestone for IYC's UK operations. Collaborating with one of the world’s foremost shipyards is not just an opportunity; it's a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality. This partnership opens up exciting new possibilities, and we look forward to supporting brokers and cultivating a growing client base of Sunreef Yachts enthusiasts in the UK."The partnership between IYC and Sunreef Yachts represents a significant development in the luxury yachting industry, combining IYC's market expertise with Sunreef's innovative and sustainable yacht designs.Sunreef Yachts was founded by Francis Lapp in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland. Since then, the shipyard has been designing and manufacturing luxury sailing and power multihulls. Credits: Sunreef Yachts
May 31, 2024
VisionF Yachts has announced the development of a new 30.7-meter supercatamaran, currently under construction at their Yalova shipyard. The hulls of this all-aluminium superyacht have already been completed and turned, with the superstructure also finished. The yacht features a GRP (Glass Fibre Reinforced Polyester) roof, a first for VisionF, aimed at reducing the vessel’s weight and enhancing speed.Named VisionF 101 Alu, the supercatamaran boasts nearly 400 square meters of living space, including a 30 square meter owner’s suite and a 140 square meter flybridge. Designed for both performance and comfort, the yacht is equipped with four Volvo Penta IPA1350 engines, producing a combined 4,000 horsepower. This setup allows the yacht to reach speeds over 20 knots, while its broad beam ensures stability and safety.The yacht is tailored for Mediterranean cruising, suitable for long crossings and coastal hops between harbors and anchorages. It includes expansive outdoor living spaces, such as a large cockpit, foredeck lounge, and a hydraulic bathing platform for water activities. The flybridge, covered by an elegant hardtop, offers various configurations for lounging, dining, and a whirlpool spa.Interior details are yet to be fully revealed, but the yacht will accommodate up to 12 guests. The designs for the first unit feature a modern style with neutral tones, emphasizing spaciousness and comfort. The VisionF 101 Alu is scheduled for launch in 2025.VisionF Yachts in Turkey was set up by Coşkun Bayraktar in Istanbul in 2019, but despite the shipyard’s relative youth it is a brand that is going places in the power catamaran world. In November 2020, VisionF Yachts debuted its first vessel, the VisionF 80. Credits: VisionF Yachts
May 30, 2024