Yacht Industry News Luxury Yacht & Superyacht News

Riva Aquariva yacht tender by Marc Newson presented at the 36th Arte Fiera, Bologna, Italy

February 03, 2012

Riva, a brand by Ferretti Group, was present with the Aquariva yacht tender by Marc Newson at Arte Fiera, the contemporary art exhibition that was held at the venue of BolognaFiere in January 27-30, 2012.

Riva Aquariva Yacht Tender by Marc Newson

Riva Aquariva Yacht Tender by Marc Newson

The Aquariva yacht by Marc Newson was the special guest of Arte Fiera, the annual event that celebrated its 36th edition, making of Bologna the Italian centre for modern and contemporary art during the last week end.

The Aquariva project by Marc Newson is the result of the partnership of two of the greatest representatives of International design: Officina Italiana Design – the studio which has been designing for 20 years the style of the crafts by Riva, manufactured in the glorious shipyards funded by Pietro Riva in 1842 – and Marc Newson – the famous Australian designer who is the protagonist with his works of many collections, even permanent ones, in the greatest museums and art galleries in the world.

This artistic union led to the review of the historic 33-foot model featuring smooth and elegant lines, through which Newson expressed its personal view of nautical design. The result is the creation of an exclusive Aquariva model, a timeless classic, connecting the past with the present, tradition and innovation.

Riva Yacht Aquariva by Marc Newson

Riva Yacht Aquariva by Marc Newson

The Aquariva yacht by Newson is an extraordinary match of style and functionality, a glance to the period of the Dolce Vita of the 50’s and 60’s which looks towards the future, in line with the latest trends of nautical design.

This result has also been achieved thanks to the special materials chosen by the Australian designer: the wood-like textile-based laminate (a phenol composite, the forerunner of fiberglass), used for the deck area and the helm station; the anodized aluminum instead of steel and chrome brass, an unusual choice in the nautical sector which allowed giving a high-tech touch to the classic and elegant flair of Riva, a myth of the sector, a synonym for the exclusivity and luxury of the Italian style.

The exclusive Aquariva by Newson was launched last year as limited edition, 22 hulls only, and is distributed all over the world through the Riva dealers’ network.

New CMC Marine Website Now Online

February 03, 2012

With a range of innovative and cutting-edge products, the new website of CMC Marine could only be created to exalt and giving them a central position: in this way Stabilis Electra, the electric stabilizer fins, Stabilis Mechanica, the hydraulically actuated fins and the full range of thrusters, Dualis Hydro and Dualis Electra have a major role in the new company website to permit the visitors to access information easily.

New CMC Marine website

New CMC Marine website

Designed by Studio EffeErre, Milan, the new website, which consistently follows the CMC Marine corporate identity, is rich in content but still easy to navigate (a click is always sufficient to reach all the pages of the site) and aesthetically original with a graphic applicant, stylized waves, and the prevailing colors light blue and blue.

The website, as above mentioned, celebrates the product that is placed in a central location. The same role is given to the “News” that, for a dynamic company as CMC Marine is, are numerous and always interesting. Following a pragmatic philosophy, the site is full of useful sections such as the “Download” page to let the user have all the relevant documents about the company and its product, the “FAQ” page to get immediate answers to all the frequently asked questions or “Request for quotation” page through which the user can send the pertinent data necessary to get detailed technical and commercial information. Even the corporate menus, such as “Company”, “Reference” or “Contact” are designed to provide all relevant information in an immediate, concise and complete way. An effective, innovative in design but functional website, consistent to the corporate vision.

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.”

Superyacht Pavilion for the first time at Sanctuary Cove Boat Show

February 02, 2012

Exhibitors and visitors to the 24th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, held in May 24-27, 2012, will have one more marvel to admire, together with world and national launches, astonishing exhibits and excellent show deals. Brand new, not only to this year’s boat show, but the first of its kind in Australia, exhibitors will have a revolutionary new marquee that will serve as the Superyacht Pavilion.

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show 2011

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show 2011

While there are no changes to the footprint or layout of the area, the structure itself is entirely new, right down to the impeccably engineered new flooring system.

According to Tony Butler from Butlers Events & Staging, the marquee is similar to a “Meccano set” and specifically designed and constructed in Germany.

“This is purpose designed and built by Roder HTS in Germany,” he explains. “It has a curved roof – just beautiful – and the floor is made up of a cassette system, so it’s solid, stable and durable, during all kinds of weather. There are emergency fire doors and internal locks. The walls, glass windows, roof and floor all fit together.”

Another amazing attribute is the revolutionary “tite liner” ceiling, which is a new style of liner stretched taut between the rafters to give a seamless, snug fit, adding to the crisp, clean lines of the interior. “It is exceptional,” says Tony. “Exhibitors will be very pleased with their new pavilion and visitors will notice the difference too.”

The marquee had a test run during this year’s BMW Magic Millions Race Day at the Gold Coast Turf Club in January, where it was used as the VIP Marquee. “It stayed up for two weeks in total,” says Tony, “and had to endure all kinds of weather and activity. It’s really the new generation of structure, so it stands up to a lot and will look superb for years to come.”

Butlers have 40 years’ experience with events and staging, including most recently, the multi-million dollar staging requirements of The Big Day Out in Australia and New Zealand.

There are many more exhibitors and special attractions to be confirmed for this year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

New Owner of Blohm + Voss: Star Capital Partners

February 02, 2012

Blohm + Voss Repair sees excellent prospects in the growing offshore sector – a sector where the company already possesses important expertise. Its service portfolio not only comprises the complex and technologically requiring conversion of vessels and craft for oil and gas platform supply, but also services for vessels and platforms in the offshore wind power sector.

Hamburg´s Blohm + Voss Shipyard

Hamburg´s Blohm + Voss Shipyard

Its leading position in retrofitting and services for cruise liners and merchant ships will also be expanded to a similar degree. Blohm + Voss Repair also sees potential growth in retrofitting and modernization work for mega-yachts – a field in which the company has a long and distinguished record. Development of the Oil Tools unit will also be prioritized: a sector where Blohm + Voss Repair has also worked hard to acquire a strong market position.

Shipbuilding supplier Blohm + Voss Industries, one of the world´s market leaders within its segment, will also be expnading its service business to cover all of the key shipping markets worldwide. For decades, shipbuilders and shipowners have relied on the quality and reliability they can expect from components made by Blohm + Voss Industries.

Based in London, the new owners of Blohm + Voss, Star Capital Partners, specialize in the financing of capital-intensive businesses. The investment company was formed in 2000 and manages total funds of around a bilion euros. SCP provides promising companies in growth markets with capital in order to both finance ongoing activities and develop new business. Its objective is to achieve – or to secure – the acquired company´s position as the leader in its market.

“Investors Star Capital Partners are an excellent match for Blohm + Voss,” emphasizes Dr. Herbert Aly, in commenting on the change of ownership. “Their commitment will enable all three companies to continue to develop their business models, since we are not only active in booming markets but have a huge market potential. Thanks to SCP, the shipyard will be retained, and SCP also offers excellent prospects for our highly-qualified and dedicated workforce.”

Details of the London 2012 Olympic Flame lighting and arrival in UK

February 02, 2012

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) revealed yesterday the first details of the lighting of the Olympic Flame for the London 2012 Olympic Games on 10 May, and its arrival into the UK on 18 May. The Flame will travel around the UK for 70 days on the Olympic Torch Relay from 19 May to 27 July, presented by Coca-Cola, Lloyds TSB and Samsung.

Plympic Park. Aerial view of the Velodrome and the BMX track. Photo by Anthony Charlton

Olympic Park. Aerial view of the Velodrome and the BMX track. Photo by Anthony Charlton

•    Olympic Flame to be lit in Olympia, Greece on 10 May
•    8 day relay around Greek mainland and islands from 10 May to 17 May
•    Olympic Flame Handover Ceremony to be held at the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens on 17 May
•    Olympic Flame arrives into Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose in Cornwall on 18 May on board British Airways flight ‘BA2012’

Organised by the Hellenic Olympic Committee (HOC), the Olympic Flame will be lit mid-morning (BST) on 10 May using the sun’s rays at the Temple of Hera in Olympia, in a traditional hour-long ceremony among the historic ruins of the home of the ancient Games.

From the Lighting Ceremony in Olympia, the HOC will take the Olympic Flame on an 8-day relay around Greece before arriving at the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens on 17 May for the official Olympic Flame Handover Ceremony. During an early evening (BST) hour-long ceremony, the Olympic Flame will be handed over to a London 2012 representative.

Sebastian Coe, Chair of LOCOG said: ‘It gives me great pleasure to confirm 10 May as the Flame lighting date and RNAS Culdrose as the Olympic Flame’s arrival point into the UK. My team is looking forward to working with the Hellenic Olympic Committee, the Ministry of Defence  and our commercial partners to create exciting events to mark the Flame’s Greek provenance and its arrival to our shores.’

The Greek leg of the Torch Relay will showcase the beauty and history of the Greek mainland and islands to the world. The second Torchbearer on the first day and the penultimate Torchbearer on the last day of the Greek leg will be chosen by London 2012. Both Torchbearers will be inspirational people from the UK and their names will be confirmed nearer the time.

British Airways, the official airline partner of the London 2012 Games and Supporter of the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay, will carry the Olympic Flame on board flight ‘BA2012’ – a gold-liveried aircraft from Athens into the UK on 18 May. The specially chartered Airbus 319 will also transport the official delegation of UK representatives to and from the Athens Handover Ceremony.

As the Olympic Flame is classified as a symbolic flame it is permitted to be carried on board an aircraft subject to special authorisation from the Civil Aviation Authority. The Flame will travel in a ceremonial lantern that is secured in a specially designed cradle which is, in turn, firmly fixed to its seat on the plane using a secure holding device. The lantern is designed so the Olympic Flame can burn safely for up to 30 hours.

The Flame will arrive into the UK at RNAS Culdrose, near Helston in Cornwall early evening (BST) of 18 May. In addition to being close to the start point of the Torch Relay at Land’s End, the arrival at RNAS Culdrose acknowledges the vital contribution that maritime and coastal search and rescue services undertake for our island nation. RNAS Culdrose, home to most of the Navy’s Merlin and Sea King helicopter squadrons that are supporting operations around the world,  also offers a beautiful Cornish setting in which an estimated 1000 guests, media and members of the local community are expected to welcome the Olympic Flame.

Secretary of State for Defence Philip Hammond said: ‘I am delighted that Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose will be the first to welcome the Olympic Flame into the UK. It is a fantastic opportunity for the Armed Forces to be involved in such a unique event, and one they can take pride in for years to come.’

Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport, Jeremy Hunt said: ‘When BA2012 touches down in Cornwall carrying the Olympic torch it will be a hugely exciting moment. This kicks off our incredible Torch Relay right around the country and I’m sure the torch will spread ‘Olympic fever’ everywhere it goes.’

Captain Willie Entwisle, Commanding Officer of Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose, said: ‘We are honoured that the Olympic Flame will arrive in the UK by landing at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose. Our personnel, many of whom are currently supporting the Royal Navy on operations across the globe, are very excited that the build up to the London 2012 Olympic Games will start here. We are delighted to be playing such an important part in this once-in-a-lifetime event.’

On the morning of 19 May the Olympic Flame will then travel from RNAS Culdrose to Land’s End ready for the start of the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay. The Olympic Flame will travel 8,000 miles across the UK to within 10 miles of 95% of the population. 8,000 Torchbearers will carry the Olympic Flame for approximately 300 metres each, passing the Olympic Flame from torch to torch until it reaches the Olympic Stadium on the eve of 27 July.

Sevenstar Yacht Transport load and discharge first yachts in Australia in 2012

February 02, 2012

In 2011 Sevenstar Yacht Transport achieved 23 sailings for loading and discharge in Australia. Sevenstar is on its way exceeding this amount in 2012, already having two sailings bound for Australia into both Newcastle and Brisbane over the past week. Other ports to be called into this year are Fremantle, Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.

Sevenstar Yacht Transport load and discharge first yachts in Australia in 2012

Sevenstar Yacht Transport load and discharge first yachts in Australia in 2012

For 2012 – Sevenstar Yacht Transport has already had its first two sailings for the year bound for Australia calling into both Newcastle and Brisbane bringing a mix of both used and new vessels for local owners and boat brokers. “It’s an interesting time to be working within the marine transport industry” says managing director of Sevenstar Yacht Transport Australia – Mr. Dean Sharples “We’re seeing interest in both imports and exports of yachts with plenty of people taking advantage with the strength of the Australian Dollar.”

Just one and a half hours north from Sydney lies Newcastle City. Newcastle is the largest city within the Hunter Region of NSW and lies at the mouth of the mighty Hunter River. A City that is famous for its heavy industry as well as being one of the major coal export regions within Australia is now adjusting with the increasing culmination of yachts arriving on its doorstep. With the growing interest in yachts, Newcastle has become the gateway to endless possibilities for the yachting community. The region is becoming the embarkation point for those looking to cruise Australia’s shores or for those looking to ship their yacht overseas. This includes those eager to experience new cruising grounds abroad.

The ongoing arrival of Sevenstar Yacht Transport’s vessels, carrying dozens of yachts to and from the USA and Europe has seen this interest grow. Yachts, both power and sail, converge on the seaside city, bringing in work for the local marine industry. The managers at the Newcastle Yacht Club are kept busy with new customers and returning clients alike; all looking for somewhere to berth or engage one of the many local marine services in maintaining their pride and joy.

Sevenstar is currently planning for the next shipment of yachts for the end of February, loading in the USA and a March loading in the Mediterranean. As well as these sailings, the upcoming export loading of yachts from Australia across to New Zealand and back to the USA and Europe is closing in fast. The first of these shipments for the year will see a range of yachts loaded in Newcastle; local Australian builders taking advantage of selling on the international market; charter yachts looking for new opportunities of work in other regions and those looking for a new holiday experiences aboard on their own privately owned vessel. “The strength of the Australian dollar against the Euro and US Dollar is making holidaying on your own yacht in either the Caribbean or Mediterranean much more appealing.” says Dean. “And with the broad range of sailings that Sevenstar offers worldwide, now is a great time to see the world.”

Sevenstar Yacht Transport is the world’s leading provider of yacht transportation services on a lift-on-lift-off basis. A global network of destinations ranging from the familiar to the exotic, and its own fleet of around 125 independent carriers have propelled Sevenstar to the peak of its sector in just more than 25 years. Innovation, flexibility and competitive pricing have been the key to Sevenstar’s success. The companies’ customized approach and unique package of services is only set to increase as nobody else offers such a comprehensive service.

Astilleros de Mallorca opens second workshop at STP Global Building

February 01, 2012

Astilleros de Mallorca has specialized in the refit and repair of yachts for more than 25 years. The new office and workshop in the Global Building has been fully fitted with new machinery such as a lathe, milling machine, hydraulic press, welding bench as well as hydraulic test bench. As a result, the Project Managers can offer their clients a more rapid response inside the yard. The office, situated next to the 700 T travel-lift in the centre of the yard area, makes it easier for Captains and crew to drop by to discuss their service needs.

Yacht Painting at Astilleros de Mallorca yard

Yacht Painting at Astilleros de Mallorca

Rob Van Wieringen, Project coordinator for Astilleros in STP, comments: “As our first workshop quickly became too small, we have expanded with this new large mechanical workshop within STP in the Global Building. Our team of Project Managers has moved into their new offices directly above the new mechanical workshop and all operate from within the STP yard. The new location of the workshop and machinery allows us to be more efficient, always with the backup of the main yard when required. Now with both mechanical and metal workshops running on-site, plans are continuing for further expansion in order to offer more services.”

Cantalupi – THE Italian Yacht Lighting

February 01, 2012

Cantalupi, for decades THE leaders in yacht lighting, are based in Viareggio, Italy. To keep their leading position has been always very challenging and rewarding for them in terms of new technologies and patents developed, new concepts and designs introduced to the market and a unique lighting experience now available to the owners of the best yachts in the world.

Cantalupi - THE Italian Yacht Lighting

Cantalupi - THE Italian Yacht Lighting

Today Cantalupi delivers an environmentally friendly yacht lighting experience that take its clients well into the 21st century. Its services complement the lighting fixtures with lighting controls, lighting calculations and the engineering of the complete lighting project.

For Cantalupi, light is an instrument with two souls. The first is lighting technology. Over the years, they have been following closely developments in the field, studying each new technique carefully and adapting them specifically for use in yachts. The second soul is visual perception, affecting the sensory impressions linked to the illumination of a space.

Cantalupi - an environmentally friendly yacht lighting

Cantalupi - an environmentally friendly yacht lighting

Cantalupi´s mastery over the source of light lies in their control over these two components. And that´s what makes the difference between mere lighting and the design of light, a design that brings forth the best aspects of architecture.

The L.E.D. design

L.E.D. lighting comes from electronics. And electronics is at the heart of all Cantalupi´s lighting components, which is what they have studied, defined and programmed to perfection in order to ensure control of light.

Cantalupi´s long history has been marked by frequent cooperation with the most important shipyards both in Italy and around the world, such as Azimut-Benetti Group, Ferretti Group, Perini Navi, Sunseeker, Princess, Proteksan Turquoise, Royal Huisman, Oceanco, Feadship, Amels, Lurssen, Nautor´s Swan, Trinity Yachts, and many others.