Asia Brief

asia Luxury Yacht Charter & Superyacht News

Busy Day Three at PIMEX

March 31, 2012

Third day at the Phuket International Boat Show was full of action in the marine and the Hall was filled with brokers chatting positively with appointment books in hands, while exhibitors in the Hall were kept busy.

The boardwalk was busy as people enjoyed the marina-side dining and entertainment, between exploring what was on offer at the Show.

Official TV Partner for PIMEX, Go Yachting, are onsite throughout bringing daily TV interviews to viewers.

On Day Three, Go Yachting interviewed:

Joshua Lee, Managing Director, Lee Marine, who talked about the market developments and the offerings of Lee Marine, including the largest boat on display at the Show, the Pershing 92 yacht.

Jeanette Hall, HD12 Group, introduced their range of water toys, including the first of its kind in Asia, the Jetlev Flyer – a James-bond-style water-powered jet-pack.

Bryan Jones, President, Fairline Boats Asia, who discussed Asia, market trends, and the brands success in Thailand with local dealership Derani Yachts.

Day Two at Phuket International Boat Show – PIMEX 2012

March 30, 2012

Day Two at the Phuket International Boat Show built on the successes of the first day with a number of potential clients coming back and deals looking good.

The searing heat didn’t put off the serious buyers as brokers sang in unison “quality over quantity”. The date change from January to March appears to have been a success with the quality of visitors being appreciated by the exhibitors.

Official TV Partner for PIMEX, Go Yachting, are onsite throughout bringing daily TV interviews.

On Day Two, Go Yachting interviewed:

Mario Zanasi, Country Manager – Thailand, Simpson Marine, who talked about the new offerings at the show and the diverse brands they represent in Thailand.

Tony Nixey, Managing Director, Go Boating Thailand, who talked about the success of Gulf Craft in the region and the development of the Thai market.

Alberto Perrone Da Zara, Direttore Commerciale, Ferretti Group, who discussed Asia, Thailand and successes with their local dealership Lee Marine.

Phuket International Boat Show 2012: Day 1

March 29, 2012

Asia‘s leading consumer Boat Show, Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX), opened today exhibiting USD250 million (THB7.5 billion) of yachts, varying in price from USD80,000 (THB2.4 million) up to USD14 million (THB420 million), the largest being the luxury motor yacht Pershing 92 showcased by Ferretti Group.

Opening of the Phuket International Boat Show 2012

Opening of the Phuket International Boat Show 2012

The ninth edition of PIMEX was officially opened by Phuket’s Vice Governor, Sommai Prijasilpa, together with PIMEX Show Director, Andy Dowden, and Bangonrat Shinaprayoon, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand Phuket Office.

Attending PIMEX for the first time was Robert Braithwaite, Founder and President of Sunseeker, who opened the Sunseeker display together with local dealer Max Marine Asia presenting a trio of boats – the new Manhattan 53, together with the motor yacht Manhattan 63 and Manhattan 73 yacht.

Following the opening, Braithwaite said “We are launching a number of new models in the near future  including the smallest boat we’ve ever built, the superyacht Sunseeker 40, together with the largest at 48 metres.”

“Thailand has been full of opportunities for us and Sunseeker Thailand is an important part of the Sunseeker family,” Braithwaite added.

This year’s date move from January to late March has resulted in an increase in the quality of boats displayed at PIMEX.

“The quality of the boats in the water this year is the best yet. It is second to none in the region with a large choice of luxury power and sail boats, down to smaller day boats and dinghies,” commented Show Director, Andy Dowden.

An international mix of visitors turned out on the first day with a number of exhibitors commenting on the improved quality of visitors together with strong interest from Russians, with activity both in the Exhibition Hall and the marina, and rumours of several  boat deals in process.

With a strong first day, exhibitors are hopeful for the rest of the Show. “We’ve had some good leads this morning,” commented Hakan Lange, Managing Director, Derani Yachts, adding “It’s looking good. I’m positive.”

PIMEX runs from 29th March through 1st April at Royal Phuket Marina on the island of Phuket, Thailand.

Ferretti Yachts exhibits at the PIMEX 2012 to futher build its Asia Pacific presence

March 29, 2012

Ferretti Group, a world leader in the design, construction as well as marketing of luxury motor yachts, exhibits two of its premiere yachts at the Phuket International Boat Show 2012, in order to further build its long established Asia Pacific presence. The shipyard, along with its local dealer Lee Marine, showcase at the Royal Phuket Marina the 22m motor yacht Ferretti 720 and the 28m Pershing 92’ superyacht as Asia Pacific premieres.

Ferretti 720 Yacht

Ferretti 720 Yacht

To celebrate this important event, the Group has also organised a private viewing to select clients and prospects, on Friday 30th March at the Grand Villa in Phuket, when the two new models will be introduced in one of the Phuket’s most beautiful and exclusive locations.

Phuket based Lee Marine International Yacht Brokerage is Ferretti Group’s multi-brand dealer. It represents the Ferretti Yachts and the Pershing brands since 2003 and the Riva brand since 2011. Lee Marine Managing Director, Josh Lee, said Ferretti Group’s commitment to the Asia Pacific boating scene correlates with growing interest at the Group’s brands in the region.

“We have a long standing relationship with Ferretti Group, in line with the company’s focus on the customer and the product. We bring our local knowledge to the sales and customer care functions in close co-operation with the company.”

Pershing 92 Superyacht

Pershing 92 Superyacht

Over the last few years the Ferretti Group has recorded a constant growth in the number of visitors at PIMEX from many other Asian countries, from Russia and Europe, South Africa, Australia and the USA, who choose Thailand as a travelling and holiday destination. Ferretti Group views its presence at the show is particularly important to meet the demand of the many participating visitors.

Ferretti Group considers Thailand, and consequently a show like PIMEX, as a real hub for South-East Asia as a whole, from which to extend its presence to neighbouring territories: Greater China, Oceania, Singapore, strengthening its presence also in India, Japan and South Korea.

Ferretti Group is a real “pioneer” in the boating sector in this area. In 2004 the Group set-up a specific Area Manager for the Asia Pacific area, then a representative and promotion office in Shanghai in 2005. More specifically, this office deals with promotion & development activities and manages the Customer and sales network.

Over the years, Ferretti Group have strengthened its presence by appointing two Asia Pacific Area Managers and subsequently creating an ad-hoc team in charge of constantly monitoring this strategic region. Over time, the Ferretti Group has been able to develop a dealer network across the entire area capable of representing its brands at best and ensuring effective assistance before and after the purchase, so that all Owners can always rely on a 360-degree service from highly qualified personnel.

Princess Yachts to attend the Asia Boat Shows 2012 in Phuket, Hainan and Singapore

March 29, 2012

Following a successful Yokohama Boat Show in early March, the prestigious UK shipyard Princess Yachts is preparing for the busy Asian boat show season with shows being held in Phuket, Hainan as well as Singapore.

Motor Yacht Princess 72 - Image courtesy of Princess Yachts International

Motor Yacht Princess 72 - Image courtesy of Princess Yachts International

Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX)

The new Princess 60 yacht will make her show debut at PIMEX and with her sleek and dynamic profile and an astonishingly spacious interior she is sure to be a popular model.

Also on display will be the Princess 72 yacht, Princess 42 and Princess V52 yachts.

The show takes place at the Royal Phuket Marina (RPM), Phuket between 29 March – 1 April 2012.

Hainan Rendez-Vous

The Princess 78 superyacht ( an example is the charter yacht Sabbatical III) and Princess charter yacht V85-S, the largest of Princess’ range of V Class sports yachts, will be on display at Hainan Rendez-Vous 2012.

The show is held at the Visun Royal Yacht Club, Sanya (Hainan Province) between 5 – 8 April 2012.

Princess V85-S Yacht Image Courtesy of Princess Yachts

Princess V85-S Yacht Image Courtesy of Princess Yachts

Boat Asia

The new Princess 60 yacht will also be on display for the first time at Boat Asia 2012, accompanied by the Princess 72 Motor Yacht, Princess 42 flybridge model and Princess V52 sports yacht.

Boat Asia takes place at Keppel Bay Vista, Singapore between 12 – 15 April 2012.

RP120 superyacht MUSES by Horizon Yachts arrives in Sanya for the 2012 Hainan Rendezvous

March 29, 2012

The RP120 motor yacht MUSES, launched by the prominent Taiwan-based shipyard Horizon in 2011, completed her 5-day journey on March 28 from Kaohsiung, Taiwan to Sanya, China, where she will host a private event for the owner on March 30th. Designed by renowned JC Espinosa, the Muses superyacht will be also exhibited from April 5th to 8th at the Hainan Rendezvous 2012, along with the Horizon CC110 luxury yacht Lady Gaga and the E54 yacht.

Horizon RP120 motor yacht Muses in Sanya

Horizon RP120 motor yacht Muses in Sanya

Horizon appreciates the kindness of the luxury yacht MUSES new owner for allowing them to exhibit his stunning new vessel during the luxury lifestyle rendezvous in Sanya Hainan.

Muses superyacht to be exhibited at the 2012 Hainan Rendezvous

Muses superyacht to be exhibited at the 2012 Hainan Rendezvous

During the Hainan Rendezvous, Horizon will be located at YCA and will host private VIP events onboard the superyacht Lady Gaga.

Trio of Fairline´s Luxury Motor Yachts to debut at PIMEX 2012

March 28, 2012

Luxury motor yacht Squadron 78 CUSTOM, Squadron 42 yacht as well as Targa 38 yacht, built by the well-known UK shipyard Fairline, will make their debut at Thailand’s premier marine expo, PIMEX starting tomorrow, on March 29th, at Royal Phuket Marina in Phuket. Fairline will be represented by Fairline Thailand, trading as Derani Yachts.

Phuket Inernational Boat Show 2012

Phuket Inernational Boat Show 2012

This will be the first time all three models have been shown in Thailand and is the second consecutive year that Fairline Thailand is represented through Derani Yachts at PIMEX. Now in its ninth year, the expo is an established event in the marine and leisure calendar with its 2011 edition attracting over 6,000 individuals and USD$20 million of product sold.

“The new dates set at the end of the season are more timely than previously as they allow dealers to place orders for new boats with delivery from September onwards,” said Hakan Lange of Fairline Thailand.

“In previous years, PIMEX has been at the beginning of the season when few owners are thinking of changing boats.”

Southeast Asia is one of Fairline’s most established territories with sales from Phuket particularly strong, as it becomes known as the hub of Asia’s new luxury boating “Riviera”.

Popular with the rich and famous, the region is also enjoying a currency benefit from the weak British pound.

PIMEX Show Director Andy Dowden believes growth will be fuelled by a “growing interest in buying into the marine leisure lifestyle among wealthy Russian, Chinese and Thai boating enthusiasts”.

In total, over one billion Thai baht of marina infrastructure development is expected in the ‘Andaman Marine Triangle’ up to 2017.

“Phuket remains entrenched in traveller’s minds as not only Asia’s most popular tourism island, but one of the most desirable leisure destinations for investors and entrepreneurs worldwide,” he said.

On display from Fairline will be the following models for first hand tours:

Squadron 78 CUSTOM

The elegant, award winning luxury yacht Squadron 78 CUSTOM draws on a 40-year heritage. From the well-proven hull to the exquisite furnishings and cabinetry, more than 12,000 Fairlines stand behind the creation of this peerless luxury motor yacht.

Fairline luxury motor yacht Squadron 78 Custom

The luxury motor yacht Squadron 78 Custom

As its name implies, a high level of customisation is available. Large, spacious entertaining spaces are in evidence throughout the Squadron 78, from the extensive saloon and upper deck areas, through to private staterooms, where light and space are combined.

The dining room and galley can be integrated with the saloon to create a light, sociable area. The magnificent master stateroom spans the entire width of the motor yacht and comprises an en-suite dressing room, as well as a bathroom with a large walk-in shower, or an optional whirlpool bath. The spacious flybridge is also comprehensively equipped. Further custom options include, but are not limited to, an additional long range fuel tank, fin or gyro zero-speed stabilisers, changes to bulkheads and furniture, and an additional staircase.

Quiet, smooth hydraulic power operates the hi-lo bathing platform as well as the transom gate between the cockpit and the bathing area.

Squadron 42

The Squadron 42 yacht boasts many of the design and technology advances pioneered in her larger sister ships with a unique flybridge and light and spacious interiors, all within a remarkably compact hull length.

Fairline´s Squadron 42 Yacht

Fairline´s Squadron 42 Yacht

One of her most celebrated features is the option of a concealed, cantilevered Tender Launch System built into the bathing platform. The system provides an effortless way of launching and retrieving a tender, providing a level of convenience in stern layout and facilities unprecedented on a boat of this size.

The cocktpit has an usually ‘open’ feel and twin transom gates allow easy access on either side of the comfortable seating area, which quickly converts into a unique, rear-facing lounger. Inside, the light-filled saloon features full-length windows and luxurious furnishings; the master cabin has feature skylights and a generous en suite, and the starboard guest cabin increases dramatically in usable size when its twin doors to the en suite are open.

Targa 38

Despite its compact size, the sleek award winning Targa 38 yacht punches well above her weight, offering more luxury accommodation and practical features than any other sports cruiser in her class.

Fairline´s Targa 38 Yacht

Fairline´s Targa 38 Yacht

The swept-back radar arch gives the flowing lines of the Targa 38 yacht a razor sharp finish, while the long, panoramic hull windows add to its distinctive, streamlined look. An extended bathing platform on the rear makes boarding easy with or without tender and the aft boasts plenty of seating.

Downstairs, the saloon is light and airy with a central entertainment panel and galley kitchen with storage and workspace. The two sleeping cabins are positioned at the fore and aft of the saloon with the master suite boasting a spacious en suite bathroom.

Fairline Boats is known as one of the most revered boat manufacturers in the world. The company designs and builds luxury motor yachts under two distinct brands: Squadron flybridge motor yachts and Targa express cruisers.

New E84 motor yacht Virginia by Horizon Yachts due to be delivered in March

March 28, 2012

The newest E84 motor yacht Virginia, built by the prominent Taiwan-based shipyard Horizon, has successfully completed her first sea trial. The Virginia superyacht is due to be delivered to her new owner in Hong Kong at the end of March.

Horizon E84 motor yacht Virginia

Horizon E84 motor yacht Virginia

The E84 luxury yacht Virginia, which measures 89ft-6in(27.3 meters) in length and 20ft (6.1 meters) in beam, is powered by twin MAN 12V 1550HP engines and has an 18 knot cruising speed with a top speed of 22 knots. The owner, who has a business office in Taiwan, was highly involved in the design of his new E84 and often traveled to the Horizon shipyard.

To meet the owner’s wishes for his new E84 superyacht Virginia, the Horizon design team moved the kitchen from the main deck to the lower deck, creating a spacious, comfortable salon and dining room that allows for more natural light and a better main deck view. The luxurious, modern interior features Maple, Birds Eye Maple and Wenge woods, and thewindow mullions with matched veneer pattern incorporated in salon, showcasing Horizon’s superior craftsmanship. In addition, the salon includes a high-end home theatre system with karaoke equipment and oversized LED TV, which has an additional touch-screen for selecting songs when enjoying karaoke onboard.

E84 Superyacht Virginia Interior

E84 Superyacht Virginia Interior

The forward main deck on the Virginia yacht has been designed as Mah-jongg room, with a Mah-jongg table that can be converted to a traditional table and a coffee bar that includes a Siemens fully-automatic coffeemaker and small under-counter fridge. Three staterooms with ensuite bathrooms are below deck, and the master stateroom is designed with an H-shaped window that is sure to attract attention at the dock.

On flybridge, the helm station is to port and sun pads are located to starboard, offering space for a large entertaining area with a dining table, wet bar, and BBQ. This E84 yacht has the flexibility for the dinghy to be located on the aft deck or the area can left for sunbathing with two hidden teak beach chairs, and Virginia also comes equipped with a hydraulic swim platform ideal for water sports.

Full comfort aboard the 27.3m luxury yacht Virginia by Horizon Yachts

Full comfort aboard the 27.3m luxury yacht Virginia by Horizon Yachts

Horizon sincerely wishes the new owner of Virginia many unforgettable cruising memories on board their new Horizon E84 yacht.

Jongert Yachts to attend the Hainan Rendez Vous 2012

March 27, 2012

The prominent Dutch shipyard Jongert is pleased to announce that they will be present at the most important luxury event of the East, the Hainan Rendez Vous in China, running from the 5th until the 8th of April 2012.

Jongert 500 LE Yacht

Jongert 500 LE Superyacht

The Hainan Rendez Vous is held for the third time and has already become Asia’s largest and most important yacht show. Around 15.000 visitors from all across greater China visit the event at the exclusive Visun Marina and will enjoy the world’s finest brands in luxury products, art displays, private jets and an amazing range of super yachts and mega yachts.

During the show Jongert will pay special attention to their new models; the motor yacht 500 LE X with all their latest innovations such as the diesel electric propulsion and telescopic anchoring systems. And the 42MY yacht that is introduced in China; the perfect combination between modern and traditional designs mixed into 42 meters of impressiveness. Both yachts are designed by Guido de Groot. Jongert cannot wait to finish the final drawings and kick off the production of both projects.

Jongert 3400M Yacht

Jongert 3400M Yacht

Furthermore, the three contracts that were announced earlier are currently being finalized and soon Jongert will have a full yard with the luxury yacht 44MY, 46.4 meter Dubois motor yacht and the 3400M yacht. Fortunately Jongert is well on track with the refit of the 2700M Vivid yacht, the project is right on schedule and she will be back into the water in May 2012, making place for new exciting projects.

Jongert will set sail towards Asia for the first time and will be hosting a stand at the show, located in the centre of the area at booth number H2.  Jongert is well excited and looking forward to a positive show and upcoming period of time.

Newly Completed Yacht Horizon V74 and E54 Yacht Scheduled for Sea Trial on March 19th

March 27, 2012

Horizon recently completed the new motor yacht V74 and the new E54 yacht. Taiwan-based shipyard has scheduled sea trials for both yachts on March 19th in Kaohsiung harbor with their respective owners.

Horizon V74 Yacht

Horizon V74 Yacht

The new V74 yacht is designed for comfortable cruising with turnkey amenities; the functional interior layout, spacious aft deck area and additional six feet of cockpit were all points of attraction for the new owner. The V74 is equipped twin Caterpillar C-32 1600hp engines, which allow for a top speed of 26 knots, and her new owner is eagerly anticipating his maiden voyage with his family.

Horizon E54 Yacht

Horizon E54 Yacht

The E54 yacht is the newest launch in the 2012 Horizon fleet, and her new owner placed his order immediately after viewing an E54 model at the 2011 Sanctuary Cove Boat Show. For this new E54, Horizon extended the length of the berths per the owners request, and when the new owners first stepped onto their new yacht they were very pleased with the interior volume as well as the headroom offered. Equipped with the latest Volvo IPS900 twin engines, the E54 has outstanding performance under full load, reaching a top speed of 34 knots that both Horizon and her new owner are extremely satisfied with.