Water Toys Luxury Yacht & Superyacht News

Aquariva by Gucci yacht tender

September 08, 2010

New Aquariva by Gucci vessel is the exclusive made to order boat created in collaboration between Gucci, Riva and Officina Italiana Design. Aquariva by Gucci boat is a model customised by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini. The model was designed to take part in activities marking Gucci’s 90th anniversary in 2011.

Aquariva Gucci

This unique collaboration between two of Italy’s most renowned design houses celebrates the era of La Dolce Vita, when a joie de vivre, glamour and elegance defined an attitude and a lifestyle.  In their respective sectors, Gucci and Riva have similar stories, each with a tradition of excellence in design and craftsmanship that has led to international notoriety.

Founded by Guccio Gucci in Florence in 1921, Gucci won ever greater attention and acclaim for the exquisite craftsmanship and eternal appeal of its products. Now, 90 years on, under the creative direction of Frida Giannini, the House continues to infuse its remarkable heritage with a contemporary fashion vision providing a unique combination of past and present.

Aquariva Gucci boat - Impecable details

Likewise, for Riva the values behind its almost 170-year success story were established at its birth in 1842 on Lake Iseo in northern Italy. Tradition and innovation combine to create authentic maritime gems that are an expression of pure Italian elegance and allure thanks to artisan workmanship and attention to detail, employing only the finest materials. For more than twenty years Riva’s design has been entrusted to the creative inspiration of Officina Italiana Design, which under the direction of Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta, focuses exclusively on the definition of the Riva style.

Frida Giannini, Gucci Creative Director, said, “Over the decades the iconic Riva boat has become without doubt one of the most evocative images of Italian style, sophistication and elegance.  It is a symbol of a glamorous lifestyle that sparks fond memories of La Dolce Vita – a golden age when both Gucci and Riva attracted an enthusiastic following among the international jet set.  It is therefore especially meaningful in Gucci’s 90th anniversary year to be able to recognise and celebrate the great traditions and values of both Gucci and Riva through the Aquariva by Gucci.”

Riva by Gucci accessories

Norberto Ferretti, Chairman of the Ferretti Group which Riva is part of, commented, “The Aquariva bears outstanding witness to Riva’s natural evolution from past to present in the sphere of boat styling, through an elegance and delicacy of line that in a span of 33 feet holds the same attention to detail and love of tradition inspiring the Forever Now spirit of Gucci. I can’t wait to see this Aquariva by Gucci in the water, a project that perfectly represents the balance between tradition and modernity, destined to become a symbol of Italian style and craftsmanship.”

Mauro Micheli, Chief Designer of Officina Italiana Design, added, “We had to absorb Riva history to create Aquariva, but also forget it in a certain sense, in order to propose a contemporary product which would go beyond the legendary Aquarama, the best-known nautical icon in the world. In Aquariva, cutting-edge technologies have respected and maintained the charm, softness and clean lines of the shapes which are typical to Riva. If Aquarama has always been an icon, Aquariva is perhaps, becoming one, and Frida Giannini’s enthusiasm for this model confirms this.”

Respecting the DNA of the original project created by Officina Italiana Design was paramount to Gucci’s design for Aquariva. Defining the Aquariva by Gucci is a  fiberglass hull and detailing painted in Gucci’s own hue of glossy white, while Riva’s signature use of mahogany with classic varnish finish – twenty coats in all, ten by brushing, ten by spraying – is also the signature material for the cockpit and walking decks and awning cover hatch. The waterproof fabric covering the seats and sundeck features the emblematic Guccissima print, while the bed upholstery is defined by the beauty of Gucci white cotton. The iconic touch is provided by Gucci’s green-red-green web detailing which edges the floating line, perfectly complementing the unique green crystal windshield. Completing the Gucci customization is a series of exclusive Riva by Gucci accessories.

Aquariva Gucci Tender from above

The innovative two-speed electronic gear reveals all the power of the two 380-horsepower Yanmar engines, ensuring an exceptional performance, with a maximum speed of 41 knots and a 150-mile range at cruising speed.

The Aquariva by Gucci vessel was unveiled at the International Cannes Boat Show on September 7th, 2010 followed by a special presentation on September 22nd 2010, the opening day of Milan Fashion Week.  A show boat will then travel the world visiting some of the world’s most prestigious boat shows and international destinations throughout 2011. The Aquariva by Gucci will be exclusively available on a made-to-order basis through Riva’s dealer network.

Gucci

Gucci, founded in Florence in 1921, Gucci is one of the world’s leading luxury fashion brands. With a renowned reputation for quality and Italian craftsmanship, Gucci designs, manufactures and distributes highly desirable products such as leather goods (handbags, small leather goods, and luggage), shoes, ready-to-wear, silks, timepieces and fine jewellery. Eyewear and fragrances are manufactured and distributed under license by global industry leaders in these two sectors. Gucci products are sold exclusively through a network of directly operated boutiques (295 as of June 2010) and a small number of selected department and specialty stores.

Riva

Riva, the iconic Italian boat-maker established in 1842 in Sarnico, is one of the oldest and most celebrated boat-yard in the world. In the 1950s, Carlo Riva created a celebrity persona for the brand based on the famous mahogany range of boats which became iconic. Riva’s Aquariva is the natural evolution of the Aquarama, a modern day icon which reinforced Riva’s reputation as the epitome of style and luxury. Since 2000, Riva has been part of the Ferretti Group, one of the world leaders in the design, construction and sale of luxury yachts with a unique portfolio of some of the most exclusive, prestigious brands in the nautical world.

Officina Italiana Design

Founded by Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta, Officina Italiana Design is the renowned boat design studio that for over 20 years has been officially appointed as Riva’s exclusive designers. Officina Italiana Design has given shape and perfection in every detail to the current Riva range, writing a piece of history of the international yachting design. Officina Italiana Design has won a number of international prizes and signed many important projects in the real estate and industrial design sectors, distinguishing from others by the aesthetic high impact of their works.

Protector yacht tender JET 20′

September 03, 2010

Protector USA released their new 20′ Protector – the JET 20′ yacht tender, as announced by the company. This leading edge tender JET combines the incomparable quality, performance, stability and speed features of the Protector, with the fun, power and safety attributes of Yamaha’s top line FX Cruiser SHO. The JET 20′ boat is custom built with Protector’s precision craftsmanship. The boat is engineered to leverage the best attributes of these two great product lines. Protector’s Jet can function as a yacht tender, a ski boat, or as a sailing coach/support boat, and has the capacity to serve as a multifunctional commercial patrol or safety vessel. The Jet’s handling, speed, comfort and safety features make it the highest performing and most versatile boat in its class.

Protector JET 20' yacht tender

“This boat is fun to drive – fast, comfortable, dry and maneuverable,” said Tiffany Shiebler, marketing director, Protector USA. “Powered by a personal watercraft instead of a traditional outboard with a propeller, our Jet is safe and functional in shallow water and around swimmers, skiers, kite-boarders and sailors.”

Designed with shock-mitigating, chambered hypalon tubes and a solid, hand-laid fiberglass hull, the Jet boat offers smooth, secure high-speed handling in any sea condition. The ultra-spacious vessel has a 3-person cruiser seat and is equipped with optional rear seating to transport as many as six individuals. Capable of reaching speeds of up to 50 mph, the Jet features a supercharged Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO 1812cc, 4-cylinder, 4-stoke engine with electronic fuel injection. The watercraft is also equipped with a cruise-assist no wake mode, remote ignition transmitter, an adjustable tilt steering station, reverse mode with traction control technology, a 70 litre fuel tank, and dry storage capacity of up to 26-gallons. The Jet yacht tender weighs 1700 lbs., and has beam that is 7’6” when inflated and 6’ deflated. All PROTECTOR vessels feature five-chambered hypalon tubes; UV and petroleum resistant color options; rubber “sure foot” flooring; and are protected by a 5-year structural hull warranty. The Jet tender’s optional accessories include rear molded bin seats with storage, a stainless guardrail for bin seats, a single axle trailer with surge braking system, lifting points for hoist launching and LED running lights.

New CHASE 23 yacht tender by NOVURANIA

July 26, 2010

Boasting generous amenities, the new luxurious tender CHASE 23 by NOVURANIA is an extremely well-executed yacht tender.

The 7 meter CHASE 23 tender is powered by the newly engineered VOLVO D3 220HP Diesel engine. This power package offers responsiveness at top speeds, precise steering and refined handling.

CHASE 23 Yacht Tender - Image courtesy of Novurania

When set out to deliver on its new CHASE tender, NOVURANIA engineers set on the ambitious challenge of improving upon its existing line: the CHASE 31 tender & Chase 38 tenders. The CHASE 23 foot tender NOVURANIA incorporates many of the same innovations that has set aside the CHASE series as the yachtsman’s 1st choice in yacht tenders. The high impact NOVURANIA exclusive PROTEX collar which wraps around the boat makes mooring alongside the yacht effortless.

CHASE 23 Tender Afte - Image courtesy of Novurania

Boarding steps and a side entry door allows for comfortable access to the tender from onboard the yacht. What does set aside the yacht tender CHASE 23 is that it is an imperiously elegant yacht tender: tasteful and with a powerful presence. Functionality though is certainly not forgotten as with all NOVURANIA’s – “A Passion for Detail” is evident in this design.

CHASE 23 - Image courtesy of Novurania

The low profile console equipped with carbon fibre panels, a full POD featuring complete digital instrumentation and electronics are the latest in technological advancement. A slide drawer refrigeration system for cold-dry beverages onboard and an owner’s locker compartment sets this tender aside from all others.

CHASE 23 Yacht Tender Close Up Image courtesy of Novurania

The interior includes such refinements as an opulent seating package available in custom leather style upholstery in a variety of color palettes to match the yacht. Aft is a full sunpad package that creatively pops up to convert to seating with backrests. A unique recessed bow dodger standard in all yacht tender CHASE 23’s allows for a comfortable and dry passenger ride. Teak packages, and recessed stainless railings throughout add to the overall appeal of a tender in a class all its own.

Novurania Yacht Tender CHASE 23 - Image courtesy of Novurania

NOVURANIA warns though not to be fooled by its exterior beauty, under the skin is a true workhorse, designed from the bottom up. Optimum use of materials add strength but ensure minimum increase of weight to strength ratio. Fit and finish are flawless and the usage of space is fully optimized for storage and seating.

NOVURANIA yacht tenders enjoy a sturdy reputation, this has been earned by NOVURANIA’s conviction for building yacht tenders that are versatile, of the highest quality and innovative designs. “When we speak of our ‘Passion for Detail’”, says Robert Collada company President, “this is an unequivocal statement of our philosophy and process.

Our clients are the most demanding in the world. Meeting their expectations drives us to constantly raise the bar in design, functionality, reliability and performance – Perfect example: the yacht tender CHASE 23.” Collada further notes that there is more to come – as always and as expected from NOVURANIA – look to us soon for the CHASE 18 & CHASE 27 models.

Vripack Solar Team’s great success at the Frisian Solar Challenge 2010

July 13, 2010

“Sunny Side Up II”, the solar boat of the Vripack Solar Team, finished in a clever and well-deserved second place in the final standings of the Frisian Solar Challenge 2010, the World Cup Solar Boat.

Vripack Solar Boat - Sunny Side Up II

Besides daytime designing and engineering of luxury yachts and commercial vessels, an enthusiastic team of 18 persons developed in the evenings and weekends during 1,5 years a very reliable Solar Boat which travelled at a very steady high speed. Where other boats sometimes overtook Vripack, the team members kept cool during this very long race and proved that haste definitely can trip over its own heels.

During the five race stages, which took place between 4th and 10th July, ‘Sunny Side Up II ” raced 220km passing the famous 11 cities of Friesland. She did this within 16.5 hours. During the race, the pilot communicated live with the mobile team on land, so continuous information was shared about the brightness of the sun and the intake of energy and also calculations were made of how far the finish was and how much power was available. Often “Sunny Side Up II” finished on her final drop of energy.

The Winning Team - Vripack Solar Team - Image courtesy of Vripack

Vripack’s “Sunny Side Up II” is powered by five solar panels and has a top speed of 19.2km (10.36kts) per hour. The maximum power available is 2400kW. The six meter (19.7ft) boat is propelled by a custom made 2 blade propeller mounted on a forward innovative POD which was then connected to an electric engine. The body consists of carbon fiber and epoxy glue. Inspired by the BMW Gina Light Visionary Model, the team managed to save weight and thus able to gain speed as some parts of the boat were manufactured from textile fabric. Of course, the Vripack Solar Team also paid much attention to the looks of this sun absorbing boat which resulted in a nice futuristic exterior.

“Sunny Side Up II” was developed entirely by the Vripack Solar Team which designed three different lines plans which were tested on scale by a self-built towing machine at the Vripack office. The wooden plug, 27kg composite hull and the entire POD propulsion system were also built by the team itself. What do you mean, computer nerds understand nothing about building boats?

Thanks to the support of Polem, Snijtech, Esthec, Adel Polyester, Marin, Fiftysix, Interlinie, Vripack Brokers and Vripack Naval Architects, the Vripack Solar Team managed to achieve this great result!

Reinterpreted Aquariva speedboat by Marc Newson in collaboration with RIVA to be launched in September 2010

June 14, 2010

In a highly anticipated collaboration, Marc Newson has partnered with Riva and their official designers, Officina Italiana Design, to reinterpret the ‘Aquariva’ speedboat. ‘Aquariva by Marc Newson’ will be launched as a limited edition of 22 units in September 2010, available worldwide through Gagosian Gallery.

Marc Newson Aquariva Speed Boat

“As a kid obsessed with designing and making things, post-war Italian design was a huge source of inspiration. I was amazed by the seamless ability of designers and industry to produce every conceivable type of industrial product, from furniture to automobiles. My own career has undoubtedly been influenced by the Italians’ ability to impact so many areas of design,” says Marc Newson. “That influence is fully evident in ‘Aquariva by Marc Newson’, my first nautical design project for the iconic Italian brand.”

Aft - Marc Newson Aquariva

Newson’s design for the Aquariva vessel is unique in its conception, as well as the materials chosen. A wood-like, textile-based laminate (phenolic composite) was used for the deck area and instrument panel. This material was developed in the first half of the 20th century, and was a precursor to fibreglass. While having an ostensibly organic feel and aesthetic, it is significantly more durable than wood. To give the exterior a more high tech look, Newson utilized anodized aluminium, a material not generally associated with boats; this lightweight material is used in lieu of stainless stee and chrome brass, yet remains contextual among Riva’s glamour and classical design.

Respecting the DNA of the original project created by Officina Italiana Design was paramount to Newson’s design for Aquariva. With this in mind, some of the changes he makes are truly innovative: the re-imagining of the transom (at the stern), the wrap-around, laminated glass windscreen, the split cabin door entry, the functionality of the lounge and dining area, and the re-introduction of separate driver and passenger seats. Aquariva by Marc Newson’s simplicity and functionality are what make the boat truly extraordinary. The end product of Newson’s design is an uprated Riva complete with a bow thruster and state-of-the-art electronic transmission.

Aquariva Speedboat reinterpreted by Marc Newson in collaboration with RIVA

“Aquariva by Marc Newson is a natural extension of the artist’s work with planes and automobiles. The result is a brilliant blend of form and function, looking back to La Dolce Vita of the 1950′s and 1960′s and forward to the latest trends in nautical design,” says Larry Gagosian. “I can’t wait until it is on the water.”

Australian born Newson’s aesthetic vision and uncompromising originality have won him the highest international acclaim. Working across a broad spectrum of disciplines, Newson has created furniture, interiors, timepieces, objects of all sorts, and sculptural work, as well as major projects in the transportation industry, particularly aviation and aerospace. Appointed a “Royal Designer for Industry” in the United Kingdom, Newson has received numerous design awards and academic honours. He has had solo exhibitions at major museums and galleries, with work featured in the permanent collections of the world’s most renowned museums including the Musée National d’Art Moderne, centre Pompidou, Paris, the Museum of Modern Art, New York, and the Victoria and Albert Museum, London. In 2005, Newson was named by Time Magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in the world.

“We are proud that Marc Newson has chosen the Aquariva, which we first created in 2001, as the vessel in which to express his vision for nautical design. His design will carry on Aquariva’s legacy as a timeless classic, continuing a thread that connects past to present, and tradition to innovation”, Officina Italiana Design comments.

Aquariva By Marc Newson

“Officina Italiana Design and Marc Newson represent the best in international design. It is an honour for me to witness this partnership, one I am firmly convinced will both win great approbation and mark the history of design,” affirmed Norberto Ferretti, Chairman of both Ferretti Group and Riva.

Fairline to launch the new 50ft SQUADRON

June 01, 2010

Luxury motor yacht manufacturer, Fairline Boats is adding to the latest generation Squadron yacht  range with the introduction of a 50ft model, scheduled for launch during summer 2011.

Fairline Boats Squardon 50 Series

With its cleverly designed interior layout arrangement, the three cabin, three en-suite Squadron 50 yacht provides an unsurpassed amount of living space in its class.

The master cabin of the new Fairline Yacht Squadron 50 provides the size of accommodation that would normally be expected on a yacht of 60ft plus. Panoramic hull windows and overhead glazing add natural light into the cabin, further contributing to the feeling of spaciousness. The two guest cabins each feature their own en-suite with full sized shower. An optional fourth-crew cabin with feature window is also available and can be easily accessed from the cockpit.

Fairline’s design trend towards spacious and light-filled living areas on the motor yacht Squadron 50 continues into the large saloon with its huge panoramic windows, available with optional powered opening section. Offering a new layout arrangement from Fairline, the galley has been positioned aft in the saloon, allowing easy access for al fresco dining in the sociable cockpit area. The glass patio door features an optional opening window ideal for serving guests in the cockpit.

New Fairline 50ft Squadron Yacht

The class-leading flybridge 50 foot Squadron yacht  is larger than previously seen on a boat of this size, providing plentiful areas for entertaining and relaxing, and the upper helm position has been located portside to enable an even clearer view of the rear platform when mooring.

Other key features of the Fairline Squadron 50 motoryacht include the innovative, patent-pending, concealed mechanised tender launch option at the stern platform for either a Williams 285 or 325 Jet RIB.

Since the first Squadron was launched in 1991 the passion to offer an exceptional level of luxury continues today with the latest generation Squadron flybridge motor yachts, which provide sophisticated and spacious living areas. The development of the Squadron 50 yacht series follows the success of the award-winning Squadron 55 and Squadron 65, which were introduced to great acclaim in 2008 and 2009, respectively. The latest model, a Squadron 41 is being introduced this summer and will make her first show appearances at the Cannes International Boat & Yacht Show and the PSP Southampton Boat Show, both taking place in September.

Contact CharterWorld for more information or if you are interested in chartering  a yacht for the upcoming season.

Southampton Sports Boat & RIB Show 2010

May 28, 2010

Hailed a great success, the 2010 Southampton Sports Boat & RIB Show at Ocean Village Marina finished last weekend (22nd – 23rd May) with organisers reporting a great Show with a relaxed and fun atmosphere, quality visitors and glorious weather. As testament to the success of the Show, two thirds of this year’s exhibitors have already committed to the 2011 Southampton Sports Boat & RIB Show, which will be hosted at the marina between 21st – 22nd May 2011.

Southampton Sports Boat & RIB Show 2010

Debbie Burns, Marina Manager, Ocean Village Marina enthuses, “It was a great weekend and we were delighted with the level of exhibitor and visitor interest in the Show returning to Ocean Village this year, with positive comments on the choice of the location as well as feedback on the good mix of RIBs and sports boats available for viewing. We wish to thank all who attended and made the event such a success and we look forward to welcoming many of them again at next year’s Show.”

This year’s Southampton Sports Boat & RIB Show was formally opened by one of the world’s best offshore sailors, Mike Golding OBE. The Show is now in its 6th year and offered an action-packed, free-entry event for boating fans and beginners as well as those looking for a great day out, with exhibits, on-water displays and even a fashion show of the latest Jobe beachwear and wetsuits.

RIBs

With the sun shining on Ocean Village throughout the duration of the event, the location provided the perfect setting for the on-water entertainment programme, which included action from the Freestyle Asylum team and the Thundercat Racing UK team. Visitors also had the opportunity to get involved and get out on the water themselves, with the RYA’s RIB driving taster sessions as well as the Sunseeker Experience taster sessions and Dave Mumford RIB Rides running the entire weekend. Also during the Show, the lucky visitor who won a Sunseeker Experience and the winner of a Sun Sport inflatable boat, courtesy of BARRUS, were revealed.

The Show was supported by the BMF’s ‘On The Water’ campaign, which amongst its goals aims to inspire people to go boating more regularly and, importantly, provide them with the information, resources, advice and ideas they need to achieve this. 

Post- Southampton Sports Boat & RIB Show exhibitor feedback includes:

Gary Greaves, Hockley Marine

“We had a superb Show and plan on exhibiting again. We were extremely busy throughout the duration of the weekend and were delighted with the response to the Cappelli boats we had on display, including the new Capelli 770WA twin berth cabin RIB.”

Edward Pedley, MRL

“Ocean Village Marina was an easy location to get to and the layout around the marina meant that visitors were able to view the boats from the spectator area above. We were pleased with the response we had from visitors towards the new 10m Stingher, which we had on display amongst a selection of other models. We have already sold a couple of boats as a result of visitor interest.”

A Jet Ski performing tricks

David Allen, Southwater Marine, UK Distributor for Monterey Boats “We were pleased that we exhibited at the Show once again. We have attended every single year so far and certainly hope to exhibit again!”

Roy Kinch, Sunseeker Experience

“The whole Show went really well for us. We were extremely busy and were virtually non-stop, taking visitors out on the Sunseeker sports cruiser, Enzo, for 1-hour taster sessions throughout the whole weekend. It was great to see sailors and motor boating enthusiasts as well as newcomers onboard.”

The Superyacht Tiara Yacht PADI Dive Center – a World First

May 18, 2010

Diving and superyachts: TIARA is now the ultimate dive yacht. The Dubois designed, Alloy Yachts built, luxury charter sailing yacht TIARA now has a full PADI dive center on board. In a unique partnership with Dive Butler Marine the TIARA yacht is able to provide expert guidance and exclusive care to charter clients wishing to experience a once in a lifetime diving opportunity whilst enjoying their luxury yacht charter vacation.

Yacht Tiara Sailing

Tiara - Swimming Platform

This means that sailing yacht TIARA has the first superyacht PADI dive centre on a superyacht. She is also therefore one of the best appointed dive yachts on the charter market. TIARA is used to world firsts, being the first mono-hull sailing yacht with a helicopter landing facility on her large aft deck. Built in 2004 she is a very a seaworthy, large and powerful ocean going sailing yacht.

Dive Butler International is available to manage specific charterer diving requirements and requests. The dive company also provides diving research, planning and then implements all aspects of the charter diving experience onboard yacht TIARA with private PADI instructors – anywhere in the world. The professional service standards of Dive Butler and superyacht TIARA’s crew together enable a seamless dive experience onboard one of the world’s most exclusive luxury yachts.

Swimming Platform

Superyacht Tiara’s decks are large, well flowing and spacious, and there are several areas for charter guests to sunbath, relax and enjoy the cruising experience. The fly bridge area accommodates a large dining table and is fully protected from the sun by an awning. The aft deck (which is large enough for helicopter landing) leads down, with a palatial stairway, to a fold out beach area at the transom. This ‘beach’ creates an ideal place to access the water for a swim, board the tender for a shore excursion, or tryout the various water sports toys. As well as offering extensive and spacious deck and fly bridge areas for outdoor entertaining and activities.

Yacht Tiara has a light and easy interior atmosphere styled in Art Deco fashion in flamed mahogany which was styled by John Munford. It utilises subtle use of leather, galucha, lacquer, and tasteful sculptures. She has 5 luxurious staterooms for charter guests, including an amazing owner’s suite spanning over two levels.

Yacht Tiara is available for select yacht charters for between 180 – 190,000 Euro per week, MYBA terms.

Please get in touch with CharterWorld – the yacht charter specialist – for more details on chartering Tiara or any luxury sailing yacht worldwide.

Yacht Tiara - cockpit

Yacht Tiara

Yacht Tiara - The Bedouin ForedeckTent

The Yacht Tiara Master Suite

Clare businessmen to jetski around Ireland for charity

May 14, 2010

Two county Clare businessmen will undertake a unique challenge next month hoping to circumnavigate Ireland on jet-skis to raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland (CFAI) and hopefully create a new world record at the same time.

Ennis car dealers Darren Hayes and Liam Cleary will set off from Lahinch in Co Clare on Sunday June 6th hoping to be become the first ever to travel around the whole of Ireland on jetskis. Both men, who are avid jetskiers, have been in training in recent months for the event and have undergone a special K38 Water Safety training course with an instructor from the UK. The pair, who operate separate businesses in Ennis, are confident that they can complete the challenge in about a week and set a new Guinness World Record.

Several attempts have been made to travel around the Irish coast line in RIB’s (rigid inflatable boats) with one person completing the challenge some years ago in 21 days. It is hoped however that Mr Hayes and Mr Cleary will become the first to circumnavigate Ireland on jetskis and raise funds TLC4CF (Tipperary, Limerick, Clare for Cystic Fibrosis). The pair expect to spend up to 10 hours a day riding the waves off the Irish coast under the watchful eye of their safety team lead by a qualified skipper.

While the pair consider safety as their primary concern and hope they can create a work record, they say raising money for Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is what it is really all about.

“I had done a 100 mile cycle for CF before and was looking for another challenge. I met Seamus Clancy (former Clare footballer) and I mentioned to him that we wanted to do something else for CF and we came up with this idea. We had toyed with just going from Malin Head to Loop Head but it developed from there and now we are going the whole hog and go right around the country,” Darren Hayes said.

The men, along with their water and land-based support teams, will leave Lahinch in Co Clare on Sunday June 6th and will stop off in Galway for the night. As many as 300,000 people are expected to visit Galway during the event where the 2010 Round Ireland Offshore Powerboat Race will also make a stop. The team will also be allowed hold collections during the event.

Liam Cleary said: “This is going to be a serious challenge. Physically we are well able for it but mentally, we know it will be tough. It will be hard to keep the mind focused when all you can see in front of you is wave after wave.”

From Galway the pair will travel to Killybegs on Monday (7th) and on to Bangor Co Down on the Tuesday. Following a rest day on Wednesday, the two will travel south to Dunmore in Waterford where they will take another well deserved break before continuing on to Fenit on Friday. The challenge will finish back in Galway on Saturday (12th) with the pair hoping to make stops at Kilkee and Lahinch in Co Clare en route. Personnel will also be on hand at all the stops to collect funds for the charity.

The total journey has been estimated to be around 1,500 kilometres and the men will come ashore every few hours to refuel. They expect to use up to 5,000 litres of petrol which they hope will be sponsored.

The money the pair hope to raise will go to TLC4CF (Tipperary, Limerick, Clare for Cystic Fibrosis) which is involved in a drive to collect €4.2m to construct an in-patient and out-patient facility at the Mid Western Regional Hospital in Dooradoyle in Limerick. €1.5m has already been collected for the unit.

U-Boat Worx Launch a new C-Explorer Submarine Line

May 13, 2010

U-Boat Worx has announced a new range of exploration submersibles certified for diving to depths from 100 – 1,000 meters. The new line is called C-Explorers, and are available in configurations for one to six passengers.

C-Explorer 2 (2 persons 100M-1000M)

The new C-Explorers, will be marked to luxury superyacht owners along with scientists, research organizations, private explorers and aquatic tourism operators.

The C-Explorers will share the same proven technology as the existing C-Quester models however will have a totally new design. The 2 product lines are complementary and will enable U-Boat Worx to provide clients with a comprehensive and economic alternative to submersibles currently on the market.

Bert Houtman, founder of U-Boat Worx says: “Our company has demonstrated that we are able to deliver certified subs at a more reasonable price than anyone else in the market, even when applying the latest technologies such as lithium-ion batteries. With the C-Explorers we are now looking into capitalizing on this concept by expanding our product line to be capable of diving to greater depths and also cater to a wider, more diverse group of end-users.”

The internationally recognized Germanischer Lloyd classification society has been appointed to oversee and approve the design, construction and testing of all U-Boat Worx submersibles.

C-Explorer 5 (5 persons 50M-1000M)

U-Boat Worx is currently manufacturing 4 C-Quester submersibles and has commenced additional construction on a C-Explorer 2 (the ‘2’ representing a 2 passenger vessel), rated to 200 meters. The C-Explorer 2 will be first shown to the public during the Monaco Yacht Show, 22 to 25 September 2010.

The new  C-Explorer model has a catamaran-style design concept with duel hulls for even better vision than the other subs offer. The design features a fully acrylic pressure hull and patented floaters which are flexible bags encased in a housing. The floaters automatically fold in when submerging creating minimal drag enabling easier navigation through the water.

The C-Explorer design by U boat Worx offers several optional accessories regardless of which model is chosen. Features such as robotic manipulator arms, underwater navigation systems, high-definition video cameras and an integrated remotely operated vehicle (ROV) that can be controlled from inside the sub are available.

Prices range from €280,000 for a 1 person model up to €840,000  for a 5 person model. U-Boat Worx will premier the C-Explorer 2 at the upcoming Monaco_Yacht_Show 2010 which runs from the 22nd to the 25th of September 2010 . At the show you can take a demo ride, or you can visit the company’s dedicated demo centre in Aruba.

It will be interesting to see how many superyacht owners add these to the selection of water sport toys and tenders available for charter guests on luxury yacht charters.

Below is a video of the C-Quester 3 Submersible in Aruba.