The 47m high-performance cruiser Nilaya has departed from Royal Huisman’s facilities in Amsterdam following a successful series of sea trials on the North Sea and subsequent delivery to her owners.
Earlier this year, Royal Huisman's Project 405 made its way from the shipyard's state-of-the-art facilities in Vollenhove to prepare for its launch and the installation of its carbon performance sloop rig by Rondal. During an exclusive ceremony held at the national maritime museum, "Het Scheepvaartmuseum," in Amsterdam, the yacht was christened Nilaya, meaning "blissful home." As the first vessel to showcase Royal Huisman's innovative Featherlight™ design and production method, this highly anticipated Panamax superyacht marks a significant milestone for the shipyard.
Throughout the construction of Project 405, also known as Reichel/Pugh - Nauta 154, meticulous weight monitoring was implemented, resulting in an impressive 11% reduction compared to the typical advanced aluminum cruising yachts built by Royal Huisman. This achievement is a testament to the shipyard's commitment to optimizing weight without compromising stiffness or compromising on the renowned quality expected from a high-performance cruiser. The Featherlight™ method employed in the construction of this sailing masterpiece is not a singular process or construction technique; rather, it represents a comprehensive lightweight approach that integrates various aluminum and carbon fiber components, all working in harmony to achieve remarkable weight savings.
“For such a large yacht, the acceleration is exciting as she rapidly reaches high speeds,” says Nigel Ingram of MCM Newport, who served as owner’s project manager. “Twin rudders and the light, positive steering give superb maneuverability and she has reached all her project targets with ease. Rondal’s sailing systems enable fingertip control of the massive loads involved.”
Nauta Design created the general concept, the exterior design, and the interior design plan with the light, calm, contemporary décor that has been unpacked for the first time now that trials are complete. Mario Pedol, co-founder of Nauta Design, reports back from the sea trials of Nilaya: “A full day in beautiful sunny and windy weather in the North Sea off Amsterdam showed how Nilaya’s performance under sail is truly outstanding,” Pedol says. “By the time the mainsail was hoisted the breeze had built to a steady 18 knots. We sailed on a broad reach with the mainsail and Code Zero and rapidly reached a truly impressive 17 kt. boat speed. It was just the beginning of a great day of sailing with the owner and all of the main players of his and the builder’s teams.”
Royal Huisman CEO Jan Timmerman called the Nilaya’s departure bittersweet. “We are always a bit sad to see one of our yachts sail away; it’s a bit like a child leaving home. At the same time, we are proud to have delivered another unique vessel, especially one that advances innovative engineering and build technology. Nilaya is a milestone in composite superyachts in the truest sense of the word and another fine example of Royal Huisman’s ability to provide owners with the ultimate expression of personal freedom. We wish her owners and all onboard fair winds and following seas during both world cruising and many exciting regattas.”
Royal Huisman is a Dutch shipyard established in 1884 in Ronduite, building and refitting custom luxury sailing and motor yachts at its shipyard in Vollenhove, the Netherlands.
Credits: Royal Huisman
Dutch shipyard Icon Yachts has revealed its latest expedition yacht concept, Mission, at the Monaco Yacht Show. Designed by Bernd Weel Design, this rugged explorer boasts a modular design, capable of accommodating various tenders, RIBs, a three-passenger submersible, and even an Airbus H130 helicopter. Bernd Weel explained the concept's focus on experience-driven design. "The project embodies an 'experience-focused' design, meaning the vessel is designed to facilitate specialized expeditions, exploration, and yacht cruises," he said. The exterior design features strong, defined lines, drawing inspiration from products built for challenging expeditions and cargo-capable SUVs. The result is a robust, versatile design with a contemporary aesthetic.The vessel's innovative design revolves around modular elements that can be adapted and customized to suit different purposes. Icon's representative explained that "the use of containers allows owners or special charters to adapt the vessel to their evolving needs by incorporating modular areas within or onboard the yacht."These containers could serve various functions, from storing scientific research equipment to housing additional water toys and tenders. The vessel seamlessly accommodates both scenarios without compromising its primary purpose. These containers are ingeniously stored in the yacht's hexagonal-styled mid-section.With an impressive 1,800 GT, Mission can accommodate from 12 till 18 guests and can be used as private or commercial vessel.Mission boasts a cruising speed of 12 knots and an impressive range of 6,000 nautical miles, making it well-suited for adventurous voyages to remote and challenging destinations.Icon Yachts was founded in 2005 and is based in Harlingen, Netherlands. The facility can accommodate four 70m vessels simultaneously, or up to six 50m yachts, with a mast clearance height of 28m at NAP. Credits: Icon Yachts
September 27, 2023
Feadship has unveiled its latest concept design, Dunes' at the 2023 Monaco Yacht Show. This striking 83-meter superyacht not only boasts an eye-catching design inspired by sand dunes but also sets a new benchmark for sustainability in the luxury yacht industry.Dunes represents a significant step towards Feadship's goal of Net-Zero superyachts. It integrates various energy-saving features and innovative technologies, resulting in up to a 95% reduction in negative environmental impacts compared to superyachts meeting current minimum environmental regulations. These features include shading windows to reduce cooling needs, next-generation storage batteries, fuel cells, and a revolutionary propulsion system.The yacht's layout is a result of meticulous planning, incorporating six guest staterooms, a spa area, a beach club, an owner's private deck, and a pool. Dunes' asymmetrical superstructure ensures a unique design that eliminates large engine room air and exhaust trunks, optimizing the use of space and improving guest comfort.Studio De Voogt designed the yacht's exterior, drawing inspiration from the shifting contours of sand dunes. The design promotes adaptable, multi-purpose spaces, offering both open-plan areas and intimate spots, while shaded walk-around decks protect guests from the elements.To enhance sustainability further, Dunes features teak-free decking systems, relying on alternative materials like glass and stone chips sealed in transparent polyurethane resin. Additionally, the yacht utilizes treated timber for its Pavilion Deck, providing natural insulation without adding weight.Dunes also incorporates innovative features like a wind turbine hidden within its mast and a groundbreaking electric propulsion system known as ABB Dynafin™. This system mimics the thrust of a whale's tail, significantly improving hydrodynamic efficiency and reducing energy consumption.Furthermore, the yacht utilizes green methanol as a reaction agent for its solid oxide fuel cells, offering a more eco-friendly and energy-dense fuel option. Feadship also adopts low-impact steel and aluminum for construction, reducing CO2 emissions during manufacturing.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
September 27, 2023
The much-anticipated Amels 80, a pioneering 80-meter superyacht, has officially taken to the water. This marks a significant milestone for Damen Yachting and the Amels Limited Editions series. The Amels 80 is slated for delivery in 2025, aligning with Damen Yachting's commitment to rapid delivery, a hallmark of the Amels Limited Editions, with over 50 such yachts delivered to date.Each Amels 80 is characterized by its unique interior design, and this vessel is no exception. The visionary owner worked closely with Damen Yachting, design studio Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, and Burgess, the project manager, to create a truly bespoke interior. The result is a sophisticated, neutral palette with an emphasis on natural materials and personal customization. This approach ensures that the owner's personal style shines through in every aspect of the yacht's interior.Espen Oeino, the renowned designer behind the Amels 80's exterior, has crafted a contemporary, holistic design that promises to stand the test of time. With strong, modern lines and an impressive interior volume, this yacht embodies luxury and functionality. It boasts a spacious 200 sq. m sun deck, a waterside beach club that opens on three sides, a wellness and spa area, a dedicated owner's deck, and vast framed windows on the main deck, offering panoramic views.Notably, sustainability is at the heart of this next-generation design. The yacht incorporates sustainable materials and innovative hybrid technology, aligning with the growing demand for eco-conscious yachts in the luxury market.Damen Yachting, a division within the Damen Shipyards Group, was created in 2019. The division combines the pedigree and heritage of Amels yachts with a growing portfolio of SeaXplorer yachts and Yacht Support vessels.Credits: Damen Yachting
September 27, 2023
The 63rd Genoa International Boat Show concluded with a record-breaking 118,269 visitors, marking a 13.9% increase from the previous year. The event featured 1,043 brands, over 1,000 boats, and 184 premieres and new designs. Additionally, 120 conferences and workshops were held, attracting 1,316 accredited journalists and over 11 hours of television coverage. The show received notable attention from government authorities and institutions, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and other ministers. The show also benefited from international participation through a delegation of foreign journalists and buyers from 35 countries.The success of this year's show exceeded expectations and marked significant growth in the yachting industry. The 64th edition is scheduled for September 19 to 24, 2024, with ambitious plans to make it the world's leading industry event.Credits: Genoa International Boat Show
September 26, 2023
The 32nd edition of the Monaco Yacht Show has returned with an impressive lineup of yachts. As the largest yachting show in Europe and a pinnacle event in the superyacht realm, this year's show focuses on promoting environmental innovations and educational trends within the industry. Monaco Yacht Show 2022With designated hubs for design, innovation, sustainability, and adventure, the show offers a comprehensive experience. The spotlight shines on the 120 superyachts gracing Port Hercules, drawing yacht owners, charterers, buyers, and enthusiasts worldwide. Valued at around USD 4.3 billion, these yachts represent iconic brands and create a networking and exploration hub. Alongside, the luxury 'Car Deck,' showcasing classic and custom vehicles, helicopters, personal submarines, and more, turns this event into a billionaire's paradise, offering a splendid end-of-summer celebration.Here are the 15 yachts that can’t be missed. Leona 80mBilgin YachtsBilgin Yachts presents its 80m Leona. Its striking bright-scarlet hull, earning it the moniker "the Red Bullet," ensures it stands out even at Port Hercules. Unique Yacht Design handles the exterior, while H2 Yacht Design takes charge of the interior. As the largest debut at Monaco this year, Leona is a part of the Bilgin 263 series, sharing features like a lifting transom and a spacious beach club pool with its sister ship, Tatiana. A remarkable feature includes Greek statues adorned with fiber optics, creating the illusion of a starry night sky.O'Rea77.7mGolden YachtsThe O'Rea exterior design, created by Studio Vafiadis, showcases a powerful profile with muscular lines that exude strength. Her contemporary interior is a collaborative work of art by Studio Vafiadis and the Italian studio Massari Design. O'Rea features a sculpted and architectural hatch that resembles a gate, adorned with black and metallic finishes that lend a modern touch to the entrance of her beach house.Alchemy66m RossinaviThis yacht is a result of fine collaboration between the Italian shipyard and Philippe Briand, Founder of Vitruvius Yachts, who is responsible for the exterior design of the vessel and the naval architecture, and Enrico Gobbi, Founder of Venice-based practice Enrico Gobbi - Team for Design, who was responsible for interior and outdoor spaces styling. The three-deck yacht has enough space for all owner’s wishes, her green and efficient design saves both fuel and emissions. Entourage60mAmelsDelivered in early 2023, the customized 60m Entourage will be on show for the first time. As the second superyacht in the Amels 60 range, she features exterior design by Monaco based Espen Oeino International and naval architecture by Damen Yachting. Her interior design was made by the Canadian design studio Burdifilek.57Steel56.7mSanlorenzoThe 57Steel, despite its 1050 GT tonnage, exemplifies Sanlorenzo's hallmark elegance. Collaborating with Studio Zuccon International Project for exterior architecture and Piero Lissoni for interiors, it's a Monaco Yacht Show 2023 premiere that reimagines traditional layouts. The wheelhouse, usually on the upper deck, now adorns an extra deck, featuring the owner's 55 sq. m cabin with panoramic views from the owner's deck. Piero Lissoni's architectural vision blends spaces, vertical elements, and his signature staircase. This reshuffle also creates a full-beam VIP cabin on the main deck and an expansive 150 sq. m beach area. The bow garage accommodates tenders up to 7.5 meters, with a 30 sq. m gym and sauna.Baglietto T5252mBagliettoThe 52m yacht was penciled by Francesco Paszkowski Design. The interiors were also designed by FPD in cooperation with Margherita Casprini. The yacht is fitted with a hybrid propulsion system that will allow it to choose a more efficient cruising mode, curbing both consumption and environmental impact. When cruising in electric diesel mode, the T52 can indeed boast a range of up to 7,600 nautical miles, and remain at anchor up to 10 hours relying on the batteries only.Jewels 53mTurquoise YachtsThe 53m Jewels featuring a captivating sky-blue hull, is sure to capture attention wherever it sails. This unique exterior design stems from a debut partnership between the Turkish builder and Miami's DeBasto Design. Inside, it offers accommodations for 12 guests, crafted by the British studio H2 Yacht Design. With a substantial volume of 720 gross tonnes, and equipped with a spa pool, a bar, and areas for relaxation.Anjelif50mColumbus Yachts50-meter full custom aluminum superyacht Anjelif’s exteriors and interiors were made by Marco Casali of Too-Design while the engineering is by the Palumbo Superyachts team. A model tailored to the needs of her experienced owner and packed with technical and stylistic innovations like the hybrid, diesel-electric propulsion. She has a lot to offer – from open-air cinema to touch-and-go helipad and spa. Grey50mTankoaThe latest superyacht in Tankoa's successful 50m all-aluminum series with the exterior lines by Francesco Paszkowski and the interior design by Giorgio Cassetta. In addition to her features, the owner chose to incorporate an awe-inspiring outdoor home cinema screen, which is strategically positioned in front of the swimming pool lounge on the foredeck.Alunya49.9mBenettiAlunya ia a 50-meter yacht and the second in the B.Now family to feature the Oasis Deck™. This innovative solution transforms the traditional stern swim platform with hydraulic terraces spanning the entire deck width, crafting a vast 110 sq. m beach club. Offering a seamless 270° aft view, it boasts a glass-walled infinity pool and various social spaces.UV II45mISA YachtsThe yacht has a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. Her naval engineering was handled by Palumbo Superyachts; Enrico Gobbi – Team for Design designed the exterior lines, and Luca Dini Design & Architecture penned the interior design. UV II is powered by 2 CAT C32 ACERT engines, each delivering 1300 hp for a top speed of 15.4 knots and a cruising speed of 14 knots. This Is It43.5mThe Italian Sea GroupThis Is It is the latest addition to the Tecnomar fleet, a 43.5-meter motor catamaran with approximately 750GT. This innovative catamaran combines tradition and innovation, offering a lifestyle concept defined by over 600 sq. m of impressive glass windows. Its aluminum superstructure and optimized hull lines enhance hydrodynamic efficiency, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Complying with IMO Tier III requirements, it employs exhaust gas treatment technology to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. Inside, it boasts six cabins, a massage room, and a galley with polarized glass for events and show cooking.Fancy35m Nautor SwanThe Swan 108 Fancy boasts a full carbon hull and deck constructed with epoxy Sprint technology. Notably, it introduces a groundbreaking dual-acting transom door that expands the beach club area significantly without compromising interior space. The yacht's spacious saloon, illuminated by large potholes, offers a refined and intimate ambiance. Accommodating up to 9 guests, it includes a master suite, a VIP cabin, and two double cabins, one featuring an extra pullman bed.Sandbank34.1mGulf CraftThe Majesty 111 represents a harmonious collaboration between Gulf Craft and the Netherlands-based Phathom Studio. Phathom Studio's innovative exterior lines and refined interior design, combined with Gulf Craft's extensive yacht-building expertise, have given rise to a new generation of dynamic Majesty yachts. Featuring a unique 6-cabin layout and an expansive forward VIP cabin, this yacht redefines space utilization in its size category. It emphasizes seamless indoor-outdoor connections, offers panoramic views, a plunge pool on the foredeck, and integrates innovative energy-saving systems for efficient cruising and comfort. This yacht is a result of meticulous market research and trend forecasting for a global audience. Gulf Craft Announces European Debut of its Award-Winning Majesty 111 at Monaco Yacht Show 2023Sunreef 80 Eco23.8mSunreefSunreef Yachts presented the 80 Sunreef Power Eco, heralded as the world's most cutting-edge electric motor yacht. Pioneering green technology, including a groundbreaking solar panel system, powers this catamaran, setting new standards for eco-friendliness and energy efficiency. This four-cabin eco-catamaran showcases a smart energy management system, energy-efficient air conditioning, and sustainable linen furniture. Unique offerings include a bow deck hot tub, a concealed stern garage, and an alfresco gym.Credits: Amels; Bilgin Yachts; Gulf Craft; Nautor Swan; MYS; Sunreef; TISG; Yacht Harbour archive
September 26, 2023