Luxury Yachts Luxury Yacht & Superyacht News

New Riva 63´ Virtus Yacht: The Biggest Riva Open is Born

February 03, 2012

Riva, iconic Ferretti Group brand, presents the birth of the new flagship of their open line, featuring racy exteriors with a strong personality, the Riva 63′ Virtus yacht. The luxury yacht Riva 63´ Virtus is the largest open boat created by the shipyard, represented by an unmistakable style and a distinctly Mediterranean character.

New Riva 63´ Virtus Yacht The Biggest Riva Open is Born

New Riva 63´ Virtus Yacht The Biggest Riva Open is Born

The new yacht Riva 63′ Virtus is the product of a close working relationship between Officina Italiana Design, the studio that exclusively designs all yachts in the Riva range, the AYT – Advanced Yacht Technology, the Ferretti Group’s naval research and design centre, and the team of architects and designers at Centro Stile Ferrettigroup. The new model has been designed as a sporty yacht, created for owners wishing to experience the sea first hand.

Riva reinterprets the concept of an open yacht with a model featuring a typical Mediterranean style which maintains the unmistakable elegance of all the shipyard’s models: class, refinement and clean lines. These are also found in and on the new Riva 63′ Virtus yacht, flagship of the Riva opens, a model designed to last.

Created following the lines of the 63′ Vertigo yacht, a classical, highly successful Riva model, Virtus recaptures the strong character of the Rivale, another Riva open boat which has marked the shipyard’s history, but uses larger spaces which guarantee excellent liveability and total on-board comfort.

The exteriors feature spacious areas which enable owners to enjoy the Riva 63´ Virtus yacht in the company of their guests, also thanks to two large sundecks, one at bow and one astern, under which the garage for the tender is located. This sociable aspect of the boat is also extended to the helm area, where the driving seat consists of a three seater sofa, enabling owners to share the pleasure of driving the yacht with their guests.

Riva 63´ Virtus Yacht

Riva 63´ Virtus Yacht

Moreover, it is protected by a large windshield with a double curve which ensures comfort while cruising. The cockpit is spacious, comfortable and equipped with a fridge, sink and – upon request – a grill. In the cockpit there are three sofas, one of which L-shaped, located on the port hand side, one astern and a third equipped with a system which slides and enables to move closer to the varnished teak table which has a flip up section. Moreover, the cockpit is covered with a large, electro-hydraulically operated bimini which can also be kept open whilst running.

Typical of Riva, the class and attention to fine detail is evident in the cleats and in the electric winches skilfully concealed to ensure aesthetic fluidity. Painstaking attention has also been paid to creating the functional, well-designed instrument mast in line with the style of all Riva open models.

The interior fittings have been studied in such a way as to attain the very best availability in terms of space and comfort, with a large salon which makes it possible to place a wooden table, able to accomodate up to six in this area, without having to reduce the size of the galley.

Riva 63′ Virtus is a yacht featuring contrasts of colour and materials: the alternation between the light shades of the oak and darker ones of the leather, and between the opaque and polished lacquering create a style which gives the new Riva 63′ Virtus a further touch of modern style without forgetting the traditional elegance of all Riva yachts.

The master cabin is located portside astern and set slightly lower than the other two, and has been enriched with a bed run around in leather stitching. The slightly lower position of the cabin makes it possible to use all the space available. The guest cabin, also located port-side midships, features bunk beds, set out in an L-shape which offer a pleasant panoramic view of the surface of the water. The master and VIP cabins, set at bow, both feature en-suite heads, whilst the day head is located opposite the guest cabin.

The harmonious profile and racy lines of the yacht are further emphasised by the large arrow-shaped side windows, which have made so many other Riva models successful and guarantee excellent natural lighting below deck. The unusual features of the hull and teak of the deck and part of the cockpit, together with the many details in stainless steel, contribute to making the yacht 63′ Virtus both modern and sporty.

TECHNOLOGY AND PERFORMANCE

The new Riva 63′ Virtus is also on the cutting-edge for her on-board technological equipment. Featuring twin 1360mhp MAN 12V engines, 1000 kW at 2300 rpm/min, the new yacht Riva 63′ VIRTUS delivers an excellent performance, with a top speed of 40 knots and a cruise speed of 35 thanks to the tried and tested hull equipped with direct shaft line tunnel propulsion. Her ease of handling and smoothness over the waves are also excellent for this category.

Technical Specifications of the Riva 63´ Virtus yacht:

ENGINES
2 * MAN V12 – 1360 power 1360 mhp / 1000 kW at 2300 rpm

Maximum recorded speed
Maximum speed:     40 knots
Crusing speed:     35 knots

RANGE (nautical miles)
Maximum speed:     230 m.n.
Crusing speed:     270 m.n.

MAIN SIZES
Loa = overall length (standard ISO 8666)     19,57 m. – 64 ft. 2 in.
Lh = Hull length (standard ISO 8666)     19,03 m. – 62 ft. 5 in.
Lwl = waterline length (boat fully laden)     15,62 m. – 51 ft. 3 in.
Maximun beam     4,80 m. – 15 ft. 9 in.
Depth under propellers (boat fully laden)     1,60 m. – 5 ft. 3 in.
Displacement, unladen     27,70 ton. / lb. 61068
Displacement, laden     32,30 ton. / lb. 71209
Maximun number of persons on board     12
Navigation category CE 2003/44     A
Certification modules     B + F + Aa (sound emission) RINA S.p.A.

TECHNICAL DATA
Hull type: 17° deadrise Monohedron hull with spray rails
H = Overall height from keel to Roll bar:     4,72 m. – 15 ft. 6 in.
Ht = Minimum transport height from keel:     4,28 m. – 14 ft. 1 in.
P1 = pulpit     0,52 m. – 1 ft. 8 in.
P2 = Platform connected to the hull     0,00 m. – 0 ft. 0 in.
Water tanks capacity:     3200 lt. – 845 US gal
Fuel tanks capacity:     660 lt. – 174 US gal

PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS
The performance is estimated at the following conditions:
standard version displacement of the yacht:     29,42 ton. / lb. 64851
at 1 / 3 liquid load, clean hull, 25°C air temperature, good weather conditions, 6 persons on board:
overloading the yacht by:     1,5 ton. / lb. 3307
top speed decreases of:     1 knot

Works in progress on the 60 Sunreef Power yacht and the Sunreef 82 Double Deck superyacht both with launch date in mid-2012

February 03, 2012

Commissioned in 2011, two new yacht models by the renowned Polish yard Sunreef, the motor yacht 60 Sunreef Power and the Sunreef 82 Double Deck superyacht are due to be launched in mid-2012. The hulls of both vessels are currently being prepared for vacuum infusion, scheduled for next week.

Works in progress on the sailing yacht 60 Sunreef Power and Sunreef 82 Double Deck superyacht

Works in progress on the motor yacht 60 Sunreef Power and the Sunreef 82 Double Deck superyacht

60 Sunreef Power Yacht and the luxury yacht Sunreef 82 Double Deck currently under construction by Sunreef

60 Sunreef Power Yacht and the luxury yacht Sunreef 82 Double Deck currently under construction by Sunreef

Sunreef working on the 60 Sunreef Power Yacht and the Super Yacht Sunreef 82 Double Deck

Sunreef working on the 60 Sunreef Power Yacht and the Super Yacht Sunreef 82 Double Deck

The moulds of the flybridge will be cut on a CNC milling machine and delivered to the shipyard in the coming days. The infusion of the wet deck for both models is set for mid-February. All interior design has been approved by the Owners, and it is now being created at the woodwork and upholstery departments. Both models, the 60 Sunreef Power yacht as well as the luxury catamaran yacht Sunreef 82 Double Deck will be premiered at the Cannes International Boat Show in September 2012.

Three version motor yacht Pacific Class by Monaco Yachting & Technologies

February 03, 2012

The luxury motor yacht Pacific Class, developed by the Monaco Yachting & Technologies yard, is a spectacular vessel, available in three versions: 22m, 27m and 30m. The compact Pacific Class superyacht incorporates highest comfort, safety and environmentally friendly electric propulsion technology.

Three version motor yacht Pacific Class by Monaco Yachting & Technologies

Three version motor yacht Pacific Class by Monaco Yachting & Technologies

Due to the unique double insulated engine-room and machinery arrangement the luxury yacht Pacific Class offers silent and vibration free operation no other vessel of similar size can match.

The MY&T super yacht Pacific had been engineered for unlimited world-wide operation and trans-pacific range. The hull design features a very stable and seaworthy naval architecture.

All Pacific Class yachts are as well equipped with a computerized Dynamic Positioning and Joystick system interfaced to the two azimuth thrusters and the bow thruster for enhanced operation in any sea condition.

New ISA 54.5m Motor Yacht Project Panorama due to be delivered in June 2014

February 03, 2012

The 54.5m motor yacht Project Panorama is the latest stunning concept, created by the Italian shipyard ISA. The Project Panorama superyacht features an elegant exterior by Horacio Bozzo, while her lovely interior is by Studio Massari. She is due to be delivered in June 2014.

Luxury Charter Yacht AXIOMA by ISA

Luxury Charter Yacht AXIOMA by ISA

10 guests can be easily accommodated on board the beautiful super yacht Project Panorama. She will offer 5 comfortable staterooms.

The ISA luxury yacht Project Panorama will be powered by twin Caterpillar 3512C engines, allowing her to comfortably cruise at 14 knots.

Horizon Motor Yacht CC105 and V74 Yacht Shipping to Florida East Coast for Palm Beach Boat Show

February 03, 2012

Horizon Group recently loaded the new motor yachts CC105 and V74 yacht on a transportation ship en-route to the Florida East Coast, where both yachts will be present at the Palm Beach Boat Show, held in March 22–25, 2012.

Horizon V74 Yacht

Horizon V74 Yacht

As a luxury explorer yacht, the super yacht CC105 features large interior volume, accommodations for 10 plus crew, and abulbous bow that helps maximize fuel efficiency.  The V74 yacht is the second to come to the U.S. East Coast market and is a true turn-key vessel, with an open three stateroom layout plus crew and enclosed pilothouse with dayhead.

The CC105 and V74 are inventory yachts for Horizon Yachts Inc, the U.S. East Coast sales and service office, and will reside in the Old Port Cove Marina adjacent to the Horizon office.

Roger Sowerbutts, head of Horizon Yachts Inc, said, “We are starting off our 2012 show season and 25th anniversary with two new Horizon yachts that are unparalleled in luxury, craftsmanship and design. Horizon is, and has remained throughout the years, committed to the U.S.market, and the CC105 and V74 are a great representation of the build quality and flexibility Horizon has to offer.”

Horizon RP120 super yacht MUSES and the P136 luxury yacht ANGARA Finalists in 2012 World Superyacht Awards

February 03, 2012

Horizon is pleased to announce that the RP120 motor yacht Muses and the P136 Angara superyacht are finalists in the 2012 World Superyacht Awards by Boat International Media, more specifically the Muses for ´semi-displacement raised pilothouse motor yachts´ category and the Angara for ´semi-displacement three-deck motor yachts´ category.

The RP120 luxury yacht MUSES by Horizon Yachts

The RP120 luxury yacht MUSES by Horizon Yachts

The RP120 MUSES
The Horizon RP120 super yacht Muses features a sleek style and voluminous living spaces, thanks to her generous 26’ beam and well-appointed accommodations. The layout options are only restricted by one´s imagination. The RP120 is a comfortable, spacious, elegant and truly sea going yacht that reflects Horizon’s continuous drive to improve upon yacht building technology.

The Horizon P136 super yacht ANGARA

The Horizon P136 super yacht ANGARA

The P136 Angara
Combining industry-leading design with advanced construction technologies, the Horizon P136 luxury yacht Angara is built, as standard, to DNV Classification. A true mega-yacht, the P136 is tailored to a lifestyle of enjoyment and layout – five or six staterooms, a tender garage and many other options are available to meet one´s yachting needs. Horizon is committed to ensuring comfort and quality in their yachts, which is why their goal is to build custom mega yachts that are as unique.

Now in its seventh year, the World Superyacht Awards honors the most elite superyachts over 30 meters in length that have been delivered between January  1, 2011 and December 31, 2011. This year’s World Superyacht Awards will be hosted on May 5th, 2012 in Istanbul, Turkey at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski, and Horizon is honored to have two superyachts among the finalists for this prestigious award.

92m Superyacht Mayan Queen IV by Blohm + Voss in Marlborough, New Zealand

February 03, 2012

The 92m superyacht Mayan Queen IV, built in 2008 by Blohm + Voss in Germany is currently cruising in New Zealand and was recently spotted anchored up in the beautiful Marlborough Sounds.  The impressive 92m (302 ft) motor yacht Mayan Queen IV is able to accommodate up to 16 guests and has a total of 24 crew members. The megayacht Mayan Queen IV was designed by superyacht designer Tim Heywood, with interior Design by Terence Disdale Design Ltd.

92m Mayan Queen IV in the Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand

92m Mayan Queen IV in the Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand

Spanning 6 decks, the Mayan Queen IV yacht is listed as the 33rd biggest superyacht in the world and is an impressive site. The yacht has been in New Zealand since September last year and was one of the superyachts berthed in the newly redeveloped Wynyard Quarter in Auckland during the 2011 Rugby World Cup.  The yacht remained in Auckland until early 2012, receiving some maintenance and servicing work.

One of the largest yachts to visit New Zealand in the past 6 years and certainly one of the largest megayachts to grace Queen Charlotte Sound, the M/Y Mayan Queen IV is owned by Mexican billionaire Alberto Bailleres.  Alberto Bailleres chairs Mexico’s second-largest mining company, Industrias Penoles, which one of the world’s largest silver miners.

Mr Bailleres reportedly has a net worth of US$11.9 billion and was ranked at number 66 on Forbes magazine’s March 2011 list of the world’s billionaires.

Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, owner of the Chelsea Football Club owns the world’s largest superyacht Eclipse, also built by Blohm & Voss which is an imposing 164m (538)  in length.

Superyacht Mayan Queen IV - Profile showing Owners stateroom balcony.

Superyacht Mayan Queen IV - Profile showing Owners stateroom balcony.

Before making her way to the Marlborough Sounds, the Mayan Queen IV yacht was also spotted further south in Dunedin, turning heads as it made its way up Otago Harbour to its berth,  having sailed from Fiordland, where it had spent several days before the weather deteriorated. Motor yacht Mayan Queen has now left the Marlborough Sounds and is berthed in Wellington. Hopefully those onboard will enjoy a sunny Waitangi Day and weekend in the Capital.

Nautor’s Swan enjoys a positive start to 2012 with 6 new yacht orders.

February 03, 2012

Nautor’s Swan, manufacturers of luxury yachts, has started 2012 on an incredibly positive note.  Following on from the success of the final quarter of 2011, they have finalised six new orders for Swan yachts due for delivery during 2012 and early 2013.

The six new orders are made up of one Swan 80 sailing yacht, three Swan 60s, one Swan 53 and a Club Swan 42 – a spread across the SwanLine from Swan Maxi through to the smaller cruising range and through to the racing oriented smallest Swan in the model range.

Positive Start to 2012 for Nautor's Swan © Nautor's Swan

Positive Start to 2012 for Nautor's Swan © Nautor's Swan

With three more Swan 60 sail yacht orders secured, the fleet continues to grow in numbers with nine scheduled to be sailing by the end of summer.  Using the latest technology, design and construction methods, the Swan 60 yacht combines a voluminous contemporary styled interior with spacious cabins, large cockpit, high righting moment for comfortable cruising with easy handling while offering racing performance potential.  Designed to enhance the cruising experience and benefiting from a practical cockpit layout and helm position, space for relaxation, sunbathing and unhindered movement around the boat at all times is assured.

In addition, the most recent Swan to the leave the yard in Pietarsaari, Finland, and the first for 2012 has been delivered for commissioning and test sailing in France.  The fifth Swan 60 to be delivered will be joining the Swan Maxi Class circuit taking place in the Mediterranean during the summer of 2012 before competing at the Rolex Swan Cup in Porto Cervo from 10 – 16 September.

Specifications and layout design details for the new Swan 100 continue apace with further meetings taking place during boot Dusseldorf to conclude details for the second hull of the new model, due to launch fall 2013 / spring 2014.

Enrico Chieffi, Managing Director of Nautor’s Swan commented, “I am delighted that our order book is so full as we start 2012 and our team of quality craftsmen in our yard in Finland are working at close to full capacity to deliver a series of fabulous Swan’s across the full range of our SwanLine.  We have a series of innovations and evolutions to the SwanLine that we will be launching throughout 2012 including the new Swan 100.  I am personally very pleased to be leading the team during this exciting time for Nautor’s Swan.”

Feadship superyacht Audacia refitted by Pendennis Shipyard in 2011

February 02, 2012

The 46.5 metre superyacht Audacia, originally built in 1987 by the prestigious luxury yacht builder Feadship, has received an upgrade by the UK based Pendennis Shipyard, last year. She was set to spend just nine weeks at the shipyard during which the primary objectives were to completely re-style the stern and install a new set of zero-speed active stabilisers alongside further stylistic improvements to the vessel. Allowing two weeks at the end to fair and paint the new works, and a further week for setting up and removing scaffolding and tenting etc, this left Pendennis with only six weeks in which to complete the project.

46.5 m motor yacht AUDACIA - Image courtesy of Pendennis shipyard

46.5 m motor yacht AUDACIA - Image courtesy of Pendennis shipyard

In order to facilitate this short build schedule Pendennis undertook extensive measuring and design work in Gibraltar before Adacia superyachts’ journey to the UK. The design brief was provided by Joanne De Guardiola Design who styled the modernised sweeping curves on the rear staircases to the aft swim deck and requested the forward fashion plate removal. Detailed instructions from the designer included inset handrail and curl around the front corner, width and angle of the stair treads, a thicker inside wall along with lowering of its height, and the outside stairwell’s softly rolled edge into the stairs as well as the elevation view of the ‘cut away’ of the stair walls.

Superyacht Audacia - Photo Marc Paris courtesy of Pendennis Shipyard

Superyacht Audacia - Photo Marc Paris courtesy of Pendennis Shipyard

This level of detail ensured that all plans were able to be finalised in advance enabling construction of both the grand pair of elliptical staircases and new swim platform prior to motor yacht Audacias arrival – the new swim platform had been cleverly designed to allow Pendennis to tie the new structure directly into the ship’s hull whilst remaining sympathetic to the existing Feadship Design.

Audacia superyacht - Photo by Marc Paris courtesy of Pendennis Shipyard

Audacia superyacht - Photo by Marc Paris courtesy of Pendennis Shipyard

Audacia yacht arrived in Falmouth on 26th January, at which point work commenced at a fantastic pace as the yacht’s structure was stripped away, cutting the existing swim platform back to the original hull.

To facilitate the short build schedule the project team devised a programme to allow trades to work alongside each other on different elements of the project. For example whilst the fabricators were taking the stern back to its original lines, the engineers were simultaneously dismantling the stabiliser system. Work commenced on preparing for the new double sweeping stairways to be fitted whilst another team worked in parallel forming the shell plating to precisely match the curves of the existing hull. At the same time the forward fashion plates on the main deck were cut out.

Superyacht Audacia swim platform being lowered - Image courtesy of Pendennis Shipyard UK

Superyacht Audacia swim platform being lowered - Image courtesy of Pendennis Shipyard UK

During the first few weeks of the project various options for a new foredeck crane were investigated as it became apparent that the existing davit crane was not able to meet the growing requirements of the yacht. The upgrade to this new hydraulic crane was also partly a stylistic decision – with the rest of Audacia eceiving a makeover it was felt that the new crane would enhance the improved aesthetics.

Feadship superyacht Audacia during her refit

Feadship superyacht Audacia during her refit at the Pendennis Shipyard in the UK

Additionally, it was decided that an improved air conditioning chiller plant would add to guest comfort hence the installation of a new more efficient A/C system. As is often the case when undertaking system overhauls the removal of existing equipment can reveal previously invisible issues. In luxury superyacht Audacia’s case once the existing AC system had been removed it was noticed that the underlying structure had undergone years of condensation corrosion so a substantial swath of the yacht’s structure had to be renewed and painted before the new plant could be installed.

Feadship yacht Audacia - Flood up - Photo courtesy of Pendennis Shipyard

Feadship yacht Audacia - Flood up - Photo courtesy of Pendennis Shipyard

On Monday the 4th of April, 2011, Audacia superyacht left the dry dock under her own power, just nine weeks after her arrival, with an impressive list of works completed with a very pleased Owner: “I have been extremely impressed by the professionalism shown by everyone at Pendennis during this project. The fact that Audacia left the yard within 24 hours of its originally scheduled departure with a job completed on budget and every task done according to very specific and demanding criteria speaks loudly to our complete satisfaction”.

Feadhip AUDACIA motor yacht refitted at the Pendennis shipyard - Image courtesy of Pendennis

Feadhip AUDACIA motor yacht refitted at the Pendennis shipyard - Image courtesy of Pendennis

The Owner’s designer, Joanne de Guardiola Design was also delighted with the partnership with the Pendennis team: “The outstanding finished product says it all. Audacia’s refit implemented a handsome design that updated her exterior and fitted seamlessly into her Feadship profile; it was done to the highest quality standards, on time and on budget. It was wonderful to work with Pendennis’ Naval Architects on all aspects of the new stern swim platform, stairs, fashion plates etc. Complicated design ideas were exchanged quickly and effortlessly over the internet supplemented by two in-person meetings whilst measurements, design details and a budget were completed before the yacht entered the yard. The entire Pendennis team delivered top quality professionalism. AND, Audacia looks fabulous!

Motor Yacht Audacia was delivered to her Owners before Easter, 2011, at which point she travelled down to the Mediterranean to be present at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival ahead of her busy charter season.

AUDACIA yacht at the Pendennis shipyard during her refit - Photo courtesy of Pendennis

AUDACIA yacht at the Pendennis shipyard during her refit - Photo courtesy of Pendennis

Summary of Work:

1. 2m stern extension to extend beach deck area including new teak decking on all of the stern section

2. New aft staircases linked to new swim platform

3. Underwater lighting on stern

4. Replace stabilisers with ‘Quantum’ zero speed stabilisers, including overhaul of the supporting structure and systems

5. Removal of forward fashion plate

6. Replacement of A/C chiller unit including improvements to the underlying structure affected by corrosion

7. New hydraulic foredeck crane

8. Modernise vessel whilst remaining sympathetic to the original Feadship Design

9. Fairing and painting of the new works

Audacia Yacht being moved to marina - Photo courtesy of Pendennis Shipyard

Audacia Yacht being moved to marina - Photo courtesy of Pendennis Shipyard

Audacia Specifications:

Original Builder: Feadship 1987

Original Naval Architect: De Voogt

Refit Naval Arichtect: Pendennis

Refit Designer: Joanne De Guardiola Design & Pendennis

Length Overall: 46.5m

Beam: 8.2m

Draught Max: 3.05m

Hull Material: Steel

Superstructure: Aluminium

Gross Tonnage: 424 tonnes

Guest Cabins: 6

Guests: 12

Crew: 9

Engine Manufacturer: Caterpillar

Number of Engines: 2 Type: Diesel HP: 775hp / 570kW

Speed: 14 knots

Oyster 625 Super Yacht Blue Jeannie on display at the 2012 Miami Boat Show

February 02, 2012

The Oyster 625 sailing yacht Blue Jeannie has just been chosen as the ‘Best Luxury Cruiser’ in the 2012 European Yacht of the Year awards, and the Oyster Marine shipyard is pleased to have the opportunity to showcase the beautiful Oyster 625 Blue Jeannie superyacht, designed by well-known Rob Humphreys, for the first time to a US audience at the 2012 Miami International Boat Show, held in February 16-20.

The Oyster 625 sailing yacht Blue Jeannie

The Oyster 625 sailing yacht Blue Jeannie

The increased performance and handling, options for a sportier rig, several interior layout options and increased space in the master cabin by utilising the fuller aft sections are just some of the special features of the Oyster 625 luxury yacht Blue Jeannie.

Oyster 625 Super Yacht Blue Jeannie - view from above

Oyster 625 Super Yacht Blue Jeannie - view from above

What better time to escape from winter and join the Oyster yard in the warm south Florida sun to see the latest that they have to offer? Their Newport, RI team will be on hand, and the Oyster looks forward to meeting the Miami boat show visitors and showing them how the Oyster 625 super yacht Blue Jeannie has truly raised the bar in the world of semi-custom, production sailing yachts.

Oyster 625 luxury yacht Blue Jeannie Interior

Oyster 625 luxury yacht Blue Jeannie Interior