Asia Brief

asia Luxury Yacht Charter & Superyacht News

Construction of Selene 92 Ocean Explorer Yacht well underway

May 24, 2013

The construction of the magnificent Selene 92 Ocean Explorer yacht by Selene Yachts is in full swing at Jet-Tern Marine in China. Scheduled for delivery to her American owner in Spring 2014, motor yacht Selene 92 Ocean Explorer is entirely designed by acclaimed Guido de Groot Design.

Selene 92 Ocean Explorer Yacht by Selene Yachts

Selene 92 Ocean Explorer Yacht by Selene Yachts

The client, Guido de Groot and the yard have had numerous consultations on the detailing of the Selene 92 Ocean Explorer yacht, and the designers again visited the shipyard in China a few weeks ago to discuss progress.

Selene 92 Ocean Explorer Yacht - Saloon

Selene 92 Ocean Explorer Yacht - Saloon

The hull, deck and superstructure of superyacht Selene 92 Ocean Explorer have since been completed and the yard has started preparations for the construction of various installations. The experienced interior craftsmen at Jet-Tern Marine have now also begun fitting the interior.

Construction of Selene 92 Ocean Explorer Yacht

Construction of Selene 92 Ocean Explorer Yacht at Jet-Tern Marine in China

Below is a choice of the beautiful charter yachts with design by Guido de Groot.

Ferretti Group attending Qingdao Boat Show 2013 with Pershing 82′ Yacht and Aquariva Super yacht tender on display

May 23, 2013

The Ferretti Group, one of the world leaders in the design, building as well as sale of motor yachts, with an amazing portfolio of some of the most exclusive and prominent brands worldwide, concludes its “tour” of the top boating and luxury shows in China: after Hainan and Shanghai, the Group is now participating in the Qingdao International Boat Show 2013, running at the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center from 23 to 26 May. The company is showcasing two of the most prominent models in its fleet: Aquariva Super yacht tender for the Riva brand, a 33 footer featuring soft and stylish lines, and the new motor yacht Pershing 82’, representing the Pershing brand, characterized by an even more streamlined and aggressive profile.

Ferruccio Rossi, Ferretti Group CEO, during the Group press conference

Ferruccio Rossi, Ferretti Group CEO, during the Group press conference

Taking part in these three important spring events in China has allowed the Ferretti Group to present its yachts at best in this region too – true works of art that epitomise the Group’s outstanding production skills and the entirely made-in-Italy process that has always characterised all the Group’s brands.

During the Qingdao Show a press conference was also held by Ferruccio Rossi, Ferretti Group’s CEO, and Mauro Frattesi, President and CEO of Ferretti Group Asia Pacific, who illustrated the Group’s development guidelines for the next few years to the owners and media of Northern China, where Qingdao is located. Also thanks to its strategic partnership with the Weichai Group, the Ferretti Group is indeed aiming to expand further in the entire Asia Pacific area – an important market for the future growth of the boating business -, with a special focus on Greater China, Thailand, Australia and Singapore.

In order to further develop in this region the Ferretti Group has thus decided to strengthen its presence in the area by establishing its subsidiary Ferretti Group Asia Pacific Ltd., based in Hong Kong. In 2013 the Group will also aim to create a strong local team as well as to open a series of commercial offices and show rooms in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Qingdao, Xamien and Sanya.

Just on the occasion of the first participation in a Chinese show of the Aquariva Super (the first model to be launched since Riva joined the Ferretti Group and the symbol of this brand), the exclusive book published early in 2013 and dedicated to Riva’s 170th anniversary was presented to a large number of guests representing the Chinese business world and to the local media. The book was introduced by its author and publisher, journalist Riccardo Sassoli.

Riva Aquariva Super Yacht Tender at the Qingdao Boat Show 2013 in China

Riva Aquariva Super Yacht Tender at the Qingdao Boat Show 2013 in China

“We are concluding our tour in China and are extremely satisfied with the results we have achieved, fully aware of the great distance we have covered so far, but also of the long way that still lies ahead of us. Our stands at the various shows we have taken part in have been visited by a large public, made up of pleasure boating enthusiasts, not only from China, but from all over the world, as well as by the media and by our partners, who wanted to show their interest towards a sector that is now gaining importance in this part of the world too”, stated Ferretti Group’s CEO Ferruccio Rossi.

“This is why our objective over the next few years will be to meet at best these expectations and the great interest we have perceived by producing more and more innovative models, designed taking into consideration the specific needs of this region, which is playing an increasingly important role for the medium-long term global development of the boating sector”.

THE NEW MODELS BEING PRESENTED AT THE QINGDAO INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2013

PERSHING 82’
Classy style and sporty features blend together to further boost the pleasure of yachting: superyacht Pershing 82’, the new model by Pershing created by Fulvio De Simoni in cooperation with AYTD and the Ferretti Group’s team of architects and designers, is 24.97 metres long, 5.50 metres wide, and guarantees excellent performances at sea, reaching a maximum speed of 45 knots and a range of 300 nautical miles thanks to two powerful MTU 16V M93 2435 mhp (1792 kW) engines and Searex SR140S drives with Rolla surface propellers.

Pershing 82′ yacht stands out for two main distinguishing features: the sundeck with retractable helm station, which makes the yacht look even more slender and offers an unprecedented height, and the carbon fibre staircase that can be automatically lowered into the cockpit by means of an electro-hydraulic control system and then retracted upwards when it is no longer needed. Liveability means contemporary style on this yacht, both in the standard version (4 cabins) and in the optional one (3 guest cabins and lounge-cinema room).

Pershing 82 Superyacht

Pershing 82 Superyacht

AQUARIVA SUPER
Aquariva has become the symbol of Riva’s style and contemporary elegance and successfully established its presence on all continents, just as the legendary Aquarama – which is now a cult-yacht for collectors all over the world – had done in the past. Aquariva Super is the result of the cooperation between Officina Italiana Design, the design firm that “signs” all Riva yachts, and the Ferretti Group’s team of engineers and designers.

The soft, stylish lines of this 33 footer convey the unique “taste” of tradition, and the fine woods used for the deck – mahogany with maple engravings – on this timeless model further increase the pleasure of yachting while ensuring unmatched comfort and emotions. The stainless steel details, like the air intake, are true design masterpieces; the bow is hand-shaped on every single yacht. The search light is a typical element on Riva yachts and consists of more than 200 components. The mahogany deck with solid maple engravings is protected by 18 layers of paint.

The electronic two-speed automatic transmission improves minimum cruising speed acceleration and optimises maximum speed performances. This innovative electronic two-speed transmission, which comes standard on this model, reveals all the passion and strength of the two powerful 380 hp Yanmar engines, resulting in outstanding performances: a maximum speed of 41 knots and a range of 150 miles at cruising speed.

Riva Aquariva Super Yacht Tender unveiled at Qingdao Boat Show in China

May 23, 2013

Having just celebrated its 170th anniversary, Riva, part of the Ferretti Group, is currently present at the Qingdao Boat Show as one of the key exhibitors, with a representative model, Aquariva Super yacht tender, on display. The lovely Aquariva Super boat represents the ‘Made in Italy’ quality as well as craftsmanship.

Riva Aquariva Super Yacht Tender at the Qingdao Boat Show 2013 in China

Riva Aquariva Super Yacht Tender unveiling at the Ferretti Group stand on display at the Qingdao Boat Show 2013 in China

Aquariva Super yacht tender, which represents the most natural evolution of Riva style from past to present, has been celebrated with a real unveiling as a star at the Ferretti Group booth.

With its modern elegance and style, Aquariva Super has confirmed its success on all continents, just as the legendary Aquarama superyacht tender – now a cult yacht for collectors all over the world – did a few decades ago.

Aquariva Super is the result of a close working relationship between Officina Italiana Design, the studio that exclusively designs all yachts in the Riva range and the team of engineers and designers of the Ferretti Group.

“After the establishment of the Ferretti Group Asia Pacific Ltd., based in Hong Kong, and the participation at Hainan Rendez-Vous and China International Boat Show in Shanghai, we are very proud to continue our intense program of participation in major Asia Pacific events unveiling at the Qingdao Boat Show, Aquariva Super, the real ambassador of Riva all over the world,” said Ferruccio Rossi, Ferretti Group CEO.

Ferruccio Rossi, Ferretti Group CEO, during the Group press conference

Ferruccio Rossi, Ferretti Group CEO, during the Group press conference

Its soft, elegant lines reflect a taste for tradition, the valuable, beautifully carved wooden decks and leather trimmings of the dashboard and helm highlight the pleasure of sailing in a timeless classic offering unique, incomparable emotions and comfort.

The stainless steel details are master pieces of design: the air intake, the bow nose is hand-moulded on each boat. The search light is a hallmark of Riva made up of more than 200 parts. The mahogany deck realized with maple inserts obtained from solid wood is protected by 18 hands of varnish.

The automatic gear box with the electronic 2-speed control improves the acceleration at lower speed, cruise speed and optimizes the top speed.

The innovative, electronically-controlled, two speed gearbox reveals all the gritty passion of the two powerful 380 hp Yanmar motors featuring an exceptional performance: 41 knots of maximum speed and 36 of cruising speed.

First sea trial successfully completed by Horizon RP105 motor yacht AGORA

May 22, 2013

May 14, 2013, saw the Horizon RP105 motor yacht AGORA successfully complete her first sea trial in Kaohsiung Harbor, with the Horizon engineering team, owner’s representative as well as RINA surveyors present for the event. Superyacht AGORA represents the first luxury vessel by Horizon built to RINA certification.

Horizon RP105 Yacht AGORA

Horizon RP105 Yacht AGORA

Luxury yacht AGORA is based on the Horizon RP97 model (example is motor yacht Summer Wind) and with an almost 22-foot beam, offers a voluminous main deck with a main salon, formal dining area and fully-equipped galley; also found on the main deck is the full-beam master stateroom, which features a lower-level master head.

Below deck, the Horizon design team divided AGORA yacht’s layout into four spacious en-suite cabins forward and three crew cabins, and a sizable crew mess, aft of the engines. Of particular note on this raised pilothouse is the enclosed flybridge, which incorporates a pilothouse forward and immense salon mid-ship for more flexible entertaining options – she also includes an exterior cocktail bar and sunpads on the bridge deck, ideal for her owner and guests wish enjoy the alfresco experience.

Luxury motor yacht AGORA by Horizon

Luxury motor yacht AGORA by Horizon

With her twin CAT C32 1900 HP engines, motor yacht AGORA cruised at 17 knots and reached a top speed of 22.5 knots during her sea trial; in addition, she passed her RINA certification tests with flying colors.

Below is a selection of the superb charter yachts built by Horizon.

MIA conducts its first ever marina course in Taiwan

May 21, 2013

The Marina Industries Association (MIA) recently delivered its first ever marina operations course in Taiwan. The two day course was organised in partnership with Vincent Kuan, a Keelung based yacht dealer from YuYue Yacht Co.

MIA Course Participants in Taiwan 16-17 May 2013

MIA Course Participants in Taiwan 16-17 May 2013

There were 34 participants in the course from marinas, yacht dealerships, government and property developers. The syllabus included a detailed analysis of the marina industry both locally and overseas and there was a strong focus on the practical aspects of marina operations.

In the past year Taiwan has placed more importance on developing its marina and boating industry and is therefore seeking to educate marina managers and government officials in the marina industry.

MIA President Andrew Chapman said the course had been a resounding success and it demonstrated the commitment within Taiwan to strengthen its marina and wider recreational boating industries. “Throughout the two day course there was a high level of participation and enthusiasm. Vincent Kuan is to be congratulated for his excellent work. The success of the course provides a sound platform on which to sustain and grow the marina industry in Taiwan”.

As a result of the positive course feedback, discussions are already underway to conduct further marina courses and to establish a range of linkages between the Taiwanese industry, related government agencies and the MIA.

Marina at Keppel Bay – one of Asia’s top superyacht marina and lifestyle destinations

May 20, 2013

Positioned on the historic Keppel Island in the lovely Asian yacht charter location – Singapore, the award-winning Marina at Keppel Bay was built by international marina experts, Bellingham Marine. Launched in 2008, the marina boasts state-of-the-art floating concrete pontoons for 168 yachts, including megayachts of up to 280ft in length.

Marina at Keppel Bay positioned in the beautiful Asian yacht charter destination - Singapore

Marina at Keppel Bay positioned in the beautiful Asian yacht charter destination - Singapore

Marina at Keppel Bay is one of the main highlights of Keppel Bay’s premier waterfront precinct – the only residential development in Singapore to have its own world-class superyacht marina, on its very own private island. The marina has world-class berthing facilities, fine gourmet restaurants as well as beautiful architecture and landscaping on a 5-hectare private island linked to the mainland via the 245-metre Keppel Bay Bridge.

Awards and Accolades
Marina at Keppel Bay is acknowledged as one of the most-awarded marinas in the region with the following accolades:
- First winner of the International Marina of the Year 2013-2014 award, as well as the Winner of Best Environmental Initiative at the Marine13 Awards, presented by Marina Industries Association (MIA), Australia, in April 2013.
- Winner of Club of the Year 2012 award – a prestigious honour received during the Singapore Sailing Federation Gala Night for the Marina’s effort in promoting sailing regionally.
- Singapore’s 1st comprehensive, marina-centric iPhone App – ‘MarinaKB SG’ which was launched in 2011
- First recipient of the ‘Green’ Maritime Company 2011 award at the Asia Boating Awards in 2011
- First marina in Singapore awarded the BCA Greenmark ‘Gold’ 2011 award
- First marina in Southeast Asia to get a 5 Gold Anchor rating from the Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA) in July 2010
- Winner of Best Asian Marina of the Year 2010 at the Asia Boating Awards in May 2010
- First marina to win Best New Asian Marina/Yacht Club 2008 at the prestigious Christofle Asia Boating Awards
- First and only marina in Asia to be awarded a Clean Marina Level 3 certification in 2008 by the Marina Industries Association of Australia and was reaccredited in 2011
- First marina in Singapore to offer a reticulated vacuum sewer pump-out system
- First marina to offer an individual pontoon berthing system for superyachts
- First marina in Singapore to be fully designed and built by Bellingham Marine
- First marina in Asia incorporating the latest security technologies designed by Oneberry Technologies
- First marina in Singapore to be awarded the National Safety and Security Watch (SSWG) Award 2009 by Singapore Police Force and Singapore Civil Defence Force
- First marina in Singapore to have a RYA-certified Sailing Academy – Keppel Bay Sailing Academy.

Marina at Keppel Bay takes an active role in minimising hazards that could potentially impact the environment. City Reef at Keppel Bay is home to a diverse mix of coral reefs and marine life, testament to Keppel’s environmental focus.

Indonesia Yachts Show 2013 to start in less than one month

May 20, 2013

The inaugural Indonesia Yachts Show is set to open its doors in less than one month, running from June 8 to 9, 2013. All in-water display areas are now fully sold and the organisers are looking forward to welcome over 15 yachts in the in-water display area.

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International brands such as Princess Yachts, Aycer Yachts, Johnson Yachts, Prometheus, Yamaha, Suzuki, Gulf Craft and many others will be showcasing their yachts and boats at this event!

Luxury cars, such as BMW which is the event’s official partner, will also be promoting itself at this event with its luxurious lineup of cars!

Another interesting product will be a “live” demo of the “flyboard”! The visitors will have a unique opportunity to watch how they can become the comic hero “Iron man” in the water when watching the flyboard in action!

This exciting yachting and luxury showcase event will be hosted by the classy Batavia Marina in Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta, Indonesia.

Horizon releases new video tours of its E88, E56 and PC60 Yachts

May 17, 2013

Horizon recently partnered with Seattle-based Yachtvid to capture the interior as well as exterior beauty of the superyacht Horizon E88, motor yacht E56 and power catamaran yacht PC60. The two-day video shot took place along Palm Beach, Florida, which provided beautiful weather and an unbeatable backdrop. Each model has its own video, showcasing plenty of features and amenities found on board and providing an in-depth view of each of three yachts.

New video tour of the Horizon E88 Yacht

New video tour of the Horizon E88 Yacht

The Horizon E88 model (example is motor yacht Mechtilda) is a sleek and elegant motoryacht that provides a 21’ beam for a highly spacious interior layout – her main deck incorporates a large salon, formal dining, fully-equipped galley and country kitchen forward.  Four guest staterooms are found below deck forward, with additional crew quarters and mess aft, and her enclosed bridge offers a place away from the elements to pilot the yacht.

New video tour of Horizon E56 Yacht

New video tour of Horizon E56 Yacht

Also in the E series, the E56 motoryacht is a bit more sporty in design, with large salon windows that bring in natural light and a hi/lo swim platform for water activities; yet her interior is still comfortable, with a salon, dinette, lower helm, and galley on the main deck, and three staterooms below deck.

New video tour of catamaran yacht Horizon PC60

New video tour of catamaran yacht Horizon PC60

Last but certainly not least, the Horizon PC60 redefines interior volume for power catamarans with a 24’6” beam that provides the “wow” factor when entering the salon; she features an on-deck master with amazing views and a guest stateroom in each hull, not to mention her flybridge and expansive aft deck are perfect for entertaining.

Below is a new video tour of Horizon E88 Yacht, made by Horizon in partnership with YachtVid:

A very successful inaugural Singapore ‘APS Captains Party’

May 15, 2013

The first Singapore APS Captains Cocktail Party was sponsored and hosted by Asia Pacific Superyachts Singapore GM Scott Walker, following a great success of this year’s Singapore Yacht Show. The event was held at the Red Lantern Lounge on the rooftop of the Fullerton Bay Hotel.

The Fullerton Bay Hotel in the beautiful Asian yacht charter destination - Singapore

The Fullerton Bay Hotel situated in the beautiful Asian yacht charter destination - Singapore

Attended by a host of yacht crews from the show along with captains visiting Singapore at the time, yachting expert and long time Singapore resident Captain Scott in planning ahead, reported: “We had a great night at a fantastic place and we look forward to more gatherings like this in future years!”

The Captains enthusiastically agreed the Red Lantern Lounge was a fantastic venue as they viewed the spectacular panoramic views over the Singapore CBD skyline and Marina Bay precinct at one of the newest- and best- rooftop bars in Singapore. The luxurious hotel and rooftop bar is adjacent to the historic Clifford Pier on the Marina Bay waterfront in central Singapore. The bar takes its name from the original Chinese description for Clifford Pier – ‘Red Lantern Pier’.

The pier was the landing point for immigrants arriving in Singapore in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Red lanterns were used as a guide for the Captains… hanging from the pier and lighting the way for seafarers. Now, a century later, the site of the ‘Red Lanterns’ was once again the place for captains of international vessels to meet!

A very successful Singapore Yacht Show 2013 for Princess Yachts

May 14, 2013

The well known UK luxury yacht builder, Princess Yachts, has enjoyed a successful Singapore Yacht Show 2013. The company has received an award for ‘Best Brand Collection’ at the event’s VIP gala preview.

Helm Singapore Yacht Show Award for Princess Yachts

Helm Singapore Yacht Show Award for Princess Yachts

The Helm Singapore Yacht Show Awards celebrated the high quality of this year’s exhibitors and were presented during a glamorous gala dinner held at the W Singapore – Sentosa Cove hotel to mark the opening of the show.

This year’s show saw the largest ever display of Princess yachts to date, including the Asian debuts of the motor yacht Princess 52 and Princess 56 yacht, presented by the distributor in the region Princess Yachts South East Asia.

Princess Yachts at the Singapore Yacht Show 2013 - Photo credit to MCS Lifestyle Photography

Princess Yachts at the Singapore Yacht Show 2013 - Photo credit to MCS Lifestyle Photography

Princess Yachts South East Asia was formed in March 2013, amalgamating operations in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore, with the aim of becoming a leading centre of yachting excellence in the region and this award recognises their fantastic achievements in Singapore and beyond.