Ocean Alliance has hosted a select group of international charter agents, travel designers and media representatives onboard motor yacht Oneworld to discover the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef. The outstanding feedback from the guests highlighted a greater appreciation of the destination, delight in its vibrancy and a desire to protect and celebrate this UNESCO World Heritage Listed location.
Among the six hand-picked guests were three representatives of world’s leading brokerage houses - Camper & Nicholsons (France), Northrop & Johnson (USA), and the Luxury Charter Group. Thanks to the growing interest for superyacht bookings in the travel agency world, the group included a representative from influential Australian high-end inbound agency, The Tailor. A journalist contributor to Forbes, Bloomberg and Michelin guides flew in from New York with Tourism Australia’s support, to join The CEO Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief.
Setting out from Hamilton Island, the five-day familiarisation trip took in the highlights of the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef from both above, on and below the water’s surface. The invaluable support received from Tourism Australia allowed guests access engaging experiences alongside Oneworld’s unique offering in the domestic charter market.
These wide and varied experiences included cuddling a koala; wandering along the iconic Whitehaven Beach on the south east coastline of Whitsunday Island (recently voted the best island in the world by Condé Nast’s 2018 readers survey); a trek to the heights of Hamilton Island’s Passage Peak to expansive views of the entire region under an iconic Australian crisp blue sky; undertaking a scenic seaplane flight over the islands and reef, spotting mantarays and turtles under the clear surface; diving into the depths from the aft deck during a brief yet memorable Outer Reef experience; and an adrenaline-fueled slide down the inflatable slide at Chance Bay.
“It was wonderful to experience first-hand the latest addition to the Australian charter fleet. Oneworld is a beautiful, well-equipped Majesty 100 that delivers a premium charter experience. The Crew and Chef were so professional and the service, the food and the ambience were exceptional. I have a renewed enthusiasm for the Whitsundays and the Reef, thanks to the amazing Oneworld charter. We were able to explore the region's picturesque islands, from the most remote and untouched bays to the 5-star luxury of qualia and the boutiques, restaurants and attractions of Hamilton Island,” said Jeni Tidmarsh of Luxury Charter Group.
The compact trip also included cruising out to the Great Barrier Reef, in a short 3-hour motoring passage, and taking the opportunity to dive on the reef guided by Reef Safari’s insightful Instructor.
“'I've dived in many places in the world and the clarity on the reef was exceptional at the Stepping Stones dive site. I was so excited to dive in the Great Barrier Reef, and my expectations were way surpassed. I was blown away. The team at Reef Safari were wonderful guides, pointing out different types of fish and, after our dive, giving a great mini lesson on the fascinating life of reef and coral,” said journalist Sophie Friedman.
The Stepping Stones are a unique feature of Bait Reef. They are made up of 18 or more flat topped, thus the name, coral pinnacles lined up in a row. At the Southern Face shallow waters are dominated by flat terrain completely covered by hard corals with the odd sand patch. Large turtles, manta rays and some pelagic fishes such as mackerel and barracuda are often seen cruising along the drop-off.
“I recently read a quote by renowned marine biologist, Sylvia Earle, where she said ‘Please get out into wild places…. And get under the sea. Look at creatures and how they live. It's hard to be reckless with nature if you have spent time in a wild place. So be a curious explorer!’ and without doubt, we now have six of the most committed ambassadors for the reef and chartering a superyacht in the Whitsunday Islands,” said Laurie Foulon, Charter Experience Manager of Ocean Alliance.
The familiarisation trip wasn’t all at sea as the group had the opportunity to discover Hamilton Island and its leading resort, qualia, for a private tour of its private pavilions and sumptuous hosted lunch. The final leg was returning to Airlie Beach on the mainland of Australia, whilst Tourism Australia’s representative Ingrid Sellarulo guided the group through the Signature Experiences program, followed by Captain Matt Baily who imparted his immense knowledge of the area and secret spots for beach BBQs and exploration.
Oneworld was launched onto the Australian superyacht charter market earlier in the year. Built to the exacting standards of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), the yacht is available for charter along the east coast of Australia offering guests a quintessentially Australian experience on a leading superyacht.
As superyachts are limited to no more than 12 guests, the impact of international guests discovering a destination as unique and sensitive as the Great Barrier Marine Park is very low. Whilst the tourism expenditure is high yielding, a recent Economic Impact study undertaken by peak industry body, Superyacht Australia, calculated that superyacht guests spend AUD$7500 per guest per day ashore.
“Our partners from this trip onboard Oneworld will return to their desk invigorated by the experience of cruising on a superyacht on the Queensland coast. Their recommendations will result in discerning travellers selecting the destination for their next holiday bringing tourism dollars to this regional centre not to mention a heightened awareness, appreciation and celebration of the reef. We see it often, guests return from a reef experience with altered perspectives and committed to the protection of the Great Barrier Reef,” offered Joachim Howard, Managing Director of Ocean Alliance.
Azimut has unveiled its new 38.2-meter Grande Trideck superyacht, marking a design evolution for the Italian builder's flagship series. The vessel features interiors by Milan-based studio m2atelier, implementing their "Barefoot Luxury" concept focused on informal sophistication.The exterior design by Alberto Mancini retains Azimut's characteristic sleek profile while incorporating new elements like a recessed foredeck pool with integrated chaise lounge. The interior architecture emphasizes clean geometries, with straight horizontal and vertical lines creating an expanded sense of space. Diagonal elements appear selectively to establish intimate areas within the open layout.Notable interior features include a signature "Unveiling Wall" in the main salon - a motorized panel of vertical wood slats that slides open to reveal a hidden television. Floor-to-ceiling glazing throughout guest areas maintains visual connections to the seascape. The owner's suite utilizes layered glass partitions to preserve sightlines while ensuring privacy.Custom furniture pieces designed by m2atelier and manufactured by Giorgetti follow the Integral Design approach, ensuring stylistic continuity throughout all interior elements. The Sky Lounge incorporates a convertible hi-lo table that transforms the space between lounge, dining area and media room configurations."Light becomes the invisible thread that connects every environment," explained m2atelier founders Marijana Radovic and Marco Bonelli. The lighting design uses concealed LED strips and strategic window placement to accentuate material textures and spatial volumes.The Grande Trideck represents the first of three new models in Azimut's redesigned Grande series, with two additional yachts scheduled for debut at the September 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival. Technical specifications including propulsion systems and performance data remain undisclosed at this stage.Azimut's Product Design Director Federico Lantero described the project as creating "an atmosphere that evolves with those who experience it" rather than focusing on traditional displays of luxury. The design separates crew circulation routes while maintaining visual openness in all guest areas.Azimut Yachts is an Azimut Benetti Group brand. With its Atlantis, Magellano Flybridge, S, Verve and Grande collections, Azimut offers the widest range of 10 to 40 meters.Credits: Azimut Yachts
July 28, 2025
Ferretti Group's Pershing brand has introduced the GTX70, the smallest model in its Sport Utility Yacht series, measuring 21.76 meters (71'4") in length with a 5.42-meter (17'9") beam. The yacht made its world premiere during Pershing's 40th anniversary celebrations in Capri, Italy.Developed through collaboration between the Ferretti Group Product Strategy Committee led by Piero Ferrari, Vallicelli Design, and the Group's Engineering Department, the GTX70 was constructed at the Ferretti Group's Plug and Mould facility in Mondolfo. The yacht represents a more compact interpretation of Pershing's GTX concept, combining sporty performance with increased livability compared to similar-sized vessels.The GTX70 is powered by three Volvo Penta D13 IPS1200 engines, each producing 900 horsepower. Preliminary performance data indicates a top speed of 36 knots and a cruising speed of 30 knots. The propulsion system incorporates Volvo IPS electro-hydraulic steering and is complemented by Humphree Interceptor trim control and Seakeeper gyroscopic stabilizers. The yacht holds CE Class A certification, the highest safety rating for vessels under 24 meters.Exterior spaces feature a two-level stern configuration with a 23-square-meter beach area that expands to nearly 8 meters in beam when side terraces are deployed. The swim platform utilizes dual linear lift technology, functioning both as a tender launch platform and an extended lounge area. The main deck offers 10% more interior space than comparable models, while exterior areas are 30% larger.Accommodations include three cabins for six guests: a full-beam master suite amidships with walk-in wardrobe, a forward VIP cabin, and a guest cabin with crosswise bed arrangement. Crew quarters forward contain two bunk beds and a separate bathroom. Interior design emphasizes spatial perception through mirrored surfaces and LED lighting strips by Altraluce.The 16-square-meter sportbridge divides into three functional areas: a sunbathing space aft, central dining section with L-shaped sofa and extendable table, and forward helm station. The area can be shaded by either a standard awning or an optional carbon fiber bimini top.Notable features include a main deck galley with retractable glass panel connecting to the cockpit, and a helm station with pillarless windscreen for 360-degree visibility. The bow area can be configured with either sun pads or a dinette featuring a convertible table.Construction utilized Pershing's plug and mould technology, with the hull and superstructure built at the Mondolfo facility dedicated to GTX series production. The yacht's design maintains signature GTX elements including the near-vertical bow and arch-shaped profile while introducing more compact proportions.The GTX70 joins the Pershing lineup as the brand's third GTX model, following the GTX80 and GTX116. Its debut coincides with Pershing's 40th anniversary year, marking the brand's continued expansion into the sport cruiser segment.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.Credits: Ferretti Group
July 28, 2025
Northrop & Johnson has listed the new-build 26.5-meter explorer yacht Project Mako Shark for EUR6,825,000, with Yacht Broker Deniz Kaymaz representing the sale. The steel-hulled vessel, designed by Rıza Tansu and built by Tufan and Yachting Co., features a naval-inspired design with a 7.63-meter beam and shallow 1.8-meter draft.Powered by twin Cummins X15 600hp heavy-duty diesel engines, the yacht achieves a maximum speed of 12 knots with a cruising speed of 11 knots. The propulsion system delivers an exceptional 4,500-nautical-mile range at an economical 8 knots, supported by 28,000-liter fuel tanks. Engine room insulation ensures quiet operation at 58 dB in guest areas during cruising.The interior showcases marine-grade oak paneling with matte finishes, complemented by tempered glass partitions and stainless steel accents. Guest accommodations include a full-beam main deck master suite with office area and marble-clad rain shower. Four additional cabins (two VIP doubles, one twin, and one convertible) feature en-suite bathrooms with anti-fog mirrors and teak flooring.Common areas utilize scratch-resistant synthetic leather upholstery and shock-absorbing decking materials. The galley is equipped with commercial-grade Miele appliances and corrosion-resistant fixtures.The yacht offers two layout options: a crew-operated version with upper deck helm station or an owner-operated configuration with private sky lounge. Exterior spaces include an aft deck dining area with weather-resistant furniture, a convertible foredeck lounge with sunbed padding, and an upper deck with non-slip teak surfaces.Project Mako Shark's classification includes RINA Comfort Class certification for noise and vibration levels. The vessel is currently available for purchase with delivery scheduled for Q2 2026.Credits: Northrop & Johnson
July 28, 2025
The 42.2-meter motor yacht Song of Songs has entered the market at EUR22,888,000 through Camper & Nicholsons, with Chief Commercial Officer Asia Julien Solari and Sales Broker Della Pearce representing the central agency. The vessel is also available for charter in Southeast Asia.Constructed in 2023 by Heysea Yachts as the first model on their Asteria 139 platform, Song of Songs was designed in collaboration with VYD Studio. The 431GT yacht features a semi-displacement hull powered by twin Caterpillar C32 ACERT engines, achieving a top speed of 19 knots with a 2,000 nautical mile range at 14 knots cruising speed.The yacht's layout accommodates twelve guests across six cabins, including an upper deck master suite with private aft terrace, a main deck secondary master, and three VIP suites plus one convertible cabin on the lower deck. Crew quarters provide for seven staff members.Notable amenities comprise a 120 square meter sun deck with hardtop-covered dining area and bar, a main deck beach club with transformer platform, and a forward lounge area featuring a hot tub. The contemporary interior design utilizes light oak joinery and marble finishes throughout the living spaces.With 26,300 liters of fuel capacity and average consumption of 320 liters per hour at cruising speed, the yacht is equipped for extended voyages. A 120KVA Kohler generator handles onboard power requirements. The vessel's design emphasizes indoor-outdoor connectivity through extensive glazing and multiple al fresco entertainment areas.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
July 25, 2025
Nautor Swan will field sixteen yachts in this year's Rolex Fastnet Race, representing nearly the entire production history of the Finnish builder. The fleet includes models ranging from classic Sparkman & Stephens designs to contemporary German Frers creations.The 100th edition of the 695-nautical-mile race begins July 26 from Cowes, Isle of Wight, with a record 451 entries from 34 nations. The course passes Fastnet Rock off Ireland before finishing in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, France.At a pre-race reception hosted by Nautor Swan Global Service at the Royal Air Force Yacht Club in Hamble, the all-female crewed Swan 46 Anne Bonny received the Spirit of Swan Award. The yacht is sailed by Belgian team "Swanne Bonny."Notable entrants include:Coco De Mer (Swan 62RS)Truwen (Swan 38)Galiana Withsecure (Swan 55)Miri (Swan 48)The participation follows recent Swan successes including ClubSwan 125 Skorpios' 2021 line honors victory and Swan 441 Best Buddies' dual handicap win at the Aegean 600. Simultaneously, the new ClubSwan 28 makes its competitive debut at Lake Garda.Nautor Swan was founded in 1966 in Pietarsaari, Finland. The builder entered the superyacht market in 1999. Since then, the yard has continued building high-performance sailing yachts in three different lines; ClubSwan, Swan Yachts and Maxi Swan Yachts. Credits: Nautor Swan
July 25, 2025