Azimut and Volvo Penta Unveil Groundbreaking Hybrid Yacht at Cannes

Introducing the Otam 90 GTS Sexy Me, an exquisite 28-meter yacht that perfectly exemplifies elegance, balance, and timeless design, a hallmark of Otam's renowned craftsmanship. Making waves since its world debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival, this extraordinary vessel has achieved remarkable feats during sea trials, reaching an impressive top speed of 45.4 knots – well beyond its contractual 42 knots.The striking waterline is the result of collaboration among esteemed designers Umberto Tagliavini and Aldo Scorzoni of Marine Design & Services, while the sleek sporty profile is the brainchild of Giuseppe Bagnardi from BG Design Firm.“We celebrate our 70th anniversary with the Otam 90 GTS, and partnering with a client who had such clear and precise requests has been the best reward,” said Matteo Belardinelli, Otam’s Sales and Communication Manager. “It provided us an incredible opportunity to tackle the challenges of customizing a high-speed yacht, with even slight adjustments in weight making a significant impact on performance.”Uniting comfort, space, and style, this luxurious yacht is powered by two robust 2,600-horsepower MTU engines and features Arneson surface propellers paired with a hull that embodies the vision of its designers. The Sexy Me provides not just speed and agility, but also outstanding handling and seaworthiness, hallmarks of the Otam brand – delivered with a notable appreciation for smooth navigation even when loaded with crew.Design customization is a standout feature of the Otam 90 GTS, reflecting the shipyard's legacy. Each aspect of the yacht has been crafted with precision, showcasing artisanal craftsmanship that elevates this vessel in a market increasingly focused on standardization. The unique materials used – travertine and marble flooring, intricately designed parquet finishes, and elegant bronze details – create an inviting atmosphere, effortlessly blending luxury with ease.The sporty nature of the yacht is emphasized by the helm, designed to echo racing cars. It boasts a lightweight carbon-fiber structure that resembles the protective 'halo' system of Formula 1 vehicles, complete with an integrated cooling system for optimal performance. Air intakes and roof scoops reminiscent of high-performance vehicles reinforce the yacht's distinguished character.Belardinelli elaborated on the design ethos: “We focused on meticulous weight distribution and engineered the superstructure to eliminate support pillars, creating a stunningly open and airy interior space. With expansive windows and a spherical windscreen for unbeatable visibility, combined with generous ceiling heights, Sexy Me epitomizes luxury and spaciousness.”The yacht's distinctive hull, painted in metallic silver with bronze accents developed by Awlgrip, reflects its unique personality. Inside, Sexy Me features a fully customized layout, accommodating three ensuite cabins including a spacious owner’s suite. On the main deck, the convivial cockpit comes with an opening hardtop, while the well-appointed galley maintains a separate area from the VIP section. Crew quarters also benefit from generous space and independent access.The design allows for extensive customization options, from window heights to garage sizes, ensuring that the needs and desires of each owner are precisely met. This bespoke approach confirms Otam's dedication to meeting the evolving expressions of luxury and exclusivity in yacht design.Belardinelli sums it up perfectly: “This is a versatile series, available in three variants: GTS, HT, and T-TOP, each designed to endure through time while accommodating diverse client requests with an unparalleled engineering foundation.”With future iterations set to expand on the stunning aesthetics and performance principles of the Sexy Me, Otam continues to push the boundaries of luxury yachting, inviting owners to create unique masterpieces that reflect their individual style through the Otam CO Design Lab.As the yacht's debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival garnered widespread admiration, Belardinelli expressed heartfelt appreciation for the dedication of Otam’s artisans and employees, acknowledging their integral role in bringing this remarkable vessel to life.The shipyard’s history started in 1954 in Liguria. Its professionalism is what made it stand out, very quickly becoming the first authorized Riva yacht Service Center for the Med Sea. In the 80’s Otam fit around 25 yachts for an American builder before starting his own production of Otam 45’ and 55’, earning significant attention. Today Otam has produced around 90 yachts, becoming an Italian specialist, and, together with its custom range, offers a limitless choice between 45’ and 130’.Credits: Alberto Cocchi - Alessandro Guerrieri/Otam

Saxdor Yachts is poised to conclude an exceptionally successful European boat show season with its participation in the Olympic Yacht Show, scheduled for October 10-13, 2024. This event marks another significant milestone for Saxdor, showcasing a remarkable and diverse lineup of models while celebrating a season filled with new releases and industry recognitions.The Olympic Yacht Show caps off a strong start to the season for Saxdor Yachts, highlighted by the successful debut of the Saxdor 340 GTWA and the launch of the innovative MySaxdor app—a digital platform designed to enhance the boating experience for all Saxdor owners. The brand continued to build on this momentum with noteworthy accomplishments, including winning the Design Innovation Award for the Saxdor 340 GTWA at the 64th Genoa International Boat Show. Saxdor garnered significant attention and engagement at various events, thanks in part to the support of local dealers that helped achieve record visitor numbers and increased brand interaction. The brand’s presence at these showcases underscored its growing influence in the luxury yachting market, culminating in an exclusive partnership with Fraser that illustrates Saxdor’s expanding footprint within the industry.At the Olympic Yacht Show, Saxdor will feature an impressive lineup, including the 400 GTC, 400 GTO, 320 GTO, 320 GTC, 270, and the 200, in collaboration with its trusted regional partner, Thrace Labea. This event offers an excellent opportunity for enthusiasts to explore Saxdor’s innovative fleet up close, following its outstanding success throughout the European boat show circuit. Building on its warm reception at prior shows, the new Saxdor 340 GTWA will also make an appearance at the Athens International Boat Show in December.This event serves as the perfect finale to Saxdor’s European tour, as the brand continues to shine with its cutting-edge designs and commitment to excellence in the industry.Since its inception in 2019, Saxdor Yachts has experienced exponential growth, producing over 1000 boats and capturing the industry’s attention with their innovative approach. Now, with the introduction of the Saxdor 400 GTO, Saxdor Yachts aims to make waves in the 40-45 ft sport boat market, leveling up from the game-changing entry-level 200 and mid-range 320 models.Credits: Saxdor Yachts

ISA Yachts has introduced the Voyager 45, a 45-meter vessel crafted for those who seek a unique and adventurous sailing experience. Designed by Enrico Gobbi – Team for Design, who also created the interiors, this model showcases the shipyard's commitment to maritime exploration, complemented by its own naval engineering expertise.The Voyager 45 is a robust and dynamic yacht that retains the classic elegance inherent in ISA yachts. With a forward-positioned superstructure, it offers an open aft deck flexible for various setups. This thoughtful design accommodates a spacious 4.5-metre stern pool alongside a 6-metre tender and a generous relaxation area featuring freestanding furniture. Additionally, the tender crane is cleverly integrated into the side handrail, maintaining an unobtrusive exterior profile.Constructed with a steel hull and an aluminium superstructure, the Voyager 45 measures 45 metres in length, 9.34 metres in width, and has a draft of 2.60 metres, achieving a total tonnage of 445 GT. The design includes two stairways leading to an expansive beach club at the stern, outfitted with lounge chairs, hammam, gym, and a bathroom with a shower, all illuminated by a ceiling window that allows natural light from the upper swimming pool.The combination of the hull and superstructure colors – ranging from champagne to pearly white – paired with the charcoal grey roll bar seamlessly integrates with the wheelhouse, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. Noteworthy design elements include a glass wall in the lounge, flush floors and ceilings, expansive pocket-opening windows, and a sleek black frieze concealing cable guides, all contributing to a refined atmosphere.The interiors are enriched with light woods, leather accents, and hints of ocean blue. Intelligent design maximizes space utilization throughout the vessel. The main deck salon transitions into a comfortable lounge area with sofas and armchairs, leading to a spacious dining table that seats 10. The master cabin is strategically located at the forward end of the main deck, featuring an entryway office, a bathroom with dual sinks, and a shower. Below deck, there are four double cabins, each with a private bathroom.The upper deck serves as an entertainment hub, offering an L-shaped sofa, armchair, and large screen. Ascending to the sun deck reveals a welcoming area at the stern with sun loungers and a semi-circular sofa, alongside a dining area for 10 guests, complemented by a bar. Additional structural sofas are positioned toward the bow.The vessel accommodates an 8-member crew in four double cabins below deck, with the captain’s cabin situated on the upper deck adjacent to the wheelhouse. Powered by twin Caterpillar engines delivering 746 kW each, the Voyager 45 achieves a top speed of 14 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots, with a range of 5500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 10 knots.Palumbo Superyachts began to take root in 2008, when the Columbus Yachts brand was established, and in 2011 launched its first 54 meter superyacht, emblematically christened “Prima” (“the First”). Currently, Palumbo Superyachts comprises a representative office in Monaco and a logistics network of five shipyards in the Mediterranean (Ancona, Malta, Marseille, Naples, and Savona), and also operates the following brands: ISA Yachts, Extra Yachts, Columbus Yachts, Mondomarine and Palumbo SY Refit.Credit: ISA Yachts

After making waves at the Genoa and Monaco Yacht Shows, Catalan brand Maxim Yachts is excited to announce its participation in the first edition of the Port Ginesta Boat Show in Barcelona, taking place from October 10th to 13th. This event marks a significant opportunity for Maxim Yachts to showcase its flagship models, the Neo 43 Race and Neo 43 Comfort, which epitomize the brand's commitment to innovative design and high-performance daycruisers.The Port Ginesta Boat Show will feature a diverse range of vessels and offer extensive sea trial opportunities, providing a perfect platform for Maxim Yachts to connect with the local market. Both the Neo 43 Race and Neo 43 Comfort are engineered for those who seek speed and comfort on the water, boasting spacious relaxation areas both inside and out, top-quality materials, and exceptional maneuverability.Maxim Yachts specializes in customizable daycruisers, built using advanced technologies that guarantee top-notch performance and quality. Based in Costa Brava (Barcelona), the shipyard operates from a state-of-the-art 6,000-square-meter facility, supported by a dedicated team of 30 professionals.The Neo 43 Race features two double cabins, one of which can be adapted into a relaxation area, furnished in a stylish contemporary aesthetic. It allows for the installation of televisions in both cabins, catering to those who desire luxury along with performance. Powering this model are two 450-horsepower Mercury outboard engines, enabling it to achieve a remarkable top speed of 45 knots and a cruising speed of approximately 30 knots.In contrast, the Neo 43 Comfort is tailored for comfort and leisure on board. It also includes two beautifully appointed double cabins, crafted from premium materials. Equipped with dual 440-horsepower Volvo Penta inboard engines, this version reaches a top speed of 42 knots and maintains a cruising speed of 25 knots. Both models are equipped with a 1,250-liter fuel tank and a 300-liter water tank, promising an impressive range for extended navigation.Credit: Maxim Yachts

Ocean Independence, a leading brokerage firm based in Küsnacht, Switzerland, has solidified its position in the DACH region over the years, with established branches in Düsseldorf, Hamburg, and Constance that provide exceptional support to German clients in yacht buying, selling, chartering, and management.To enhance service for its growing customer base in Southern Germany, Ocean Independence has now expanded into Munich. This new presence is made possible through a partnership with Art of Travel, a luxury travel provider with over 30 years of experience in arranging high-end global trips. Situated in a prime location in Munich, Art of Travel will see Rachel Langebröker handle yacht charter inquiries and collaborate with the Ocean Independence team for execution. Additionally, Ocean Independence will have German-speaking sales consultants who will regularly be available in the Munich office.Peter Hürzeler, CEO of Ocean Independence, expressed his enthusiasm about this strategic move: “Our analysis of the customer base indicates a clear need for deeper engagement in Munich. I am delighted to partner with Art of Travel, providing our southern German clientele with another local point of contact. Our customers share a very similar profile.”Norbert Pokorny, CEO of Art of Travel, shared his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “Working with Ocean Independence opens up a new realm of opportunities in the yachting sector. We complement each other well, and I am eager to collaborate with such a renowned name in the industry.”Credits: Ocean Independence