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John Munford Luxury Yacht Charter & Superyacht News

British Excellence recognized at World Superyacht Awards 2013

May 10, 2013

Three British Marine Federation (BMF) as well as Superyacht UK (SYUK) members have been honoured with one of the most prestigious awards in the superyacht sector at the 8th annual World Superyacht Awards held in Istanbul. These members have been recognized for their expertise and excellence in superyacht design and construction.

Motor yacht A2 (ex Masquerade of Sole) after refit at Pendennis - Photo by Paul Warchol

WSA 2013 for motor yacht A2 (ex Masquerade of Sole) refitted by Pendennis - Photo by Paul Warchol

The Rebuilt Motor Yacht award went to the 47m motor yacht A2 which was refitted and exterior styling by Pendennis while the naval architecture was a combination of Pendennis and BMT Nigel Gee.

Toby Allies, Sales & Marketing Director at Pendennis said of the win: “A2 was a substantial project for Pendennis, with the vessel stripped back to her bare hull and rebuilt completely over her 16 month period in the Falmouth yard. Being awarded the World Superyacht Award for Best Rebuild is testament to the high level of excellence that is achieved by all our in-house trades and confirms our status as one of the leaders in the worldwide superyacht rebuilds market.”

The Judge’s Special Award for Performance was awarded to the 30m sailing yacht Hamilton, built by Green Marine. Marcel Muller, Managing Director at Green Marine said “We are very happy to have been awarded with this prestigious award. Hamilton is the first racing yacht that could convince the judges to have the qualities of a Superyacht.

WallyCento Yacht Hamilton launched by Green Marine - Image credit YCO

WallyCento Yacht Hamilton launched by Green Marine - Image credit to YCO

“We were lucky to execute this project with a great team of designers, engineers, project managers and builders for an owner who had a clear vision in mind. Only to mention a few of the key players: James Stagg as owners project manager kept the project on a very tight time line and Struik & Hammerslag did a fantastic job on the light weight interior.”

The dedicated award for Three Deck Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yacht went to superyacht Imperial Princess, Princess Yachts International’s first Princess 40M from their M Class range of 100ft yachts.

Imperial Princess superyacht by Princess Yachts

Imperial Princess superyacht by Princess Yachts

Chris Gates, Managing Director at Princess Yachts International, said: “We are extremely honoured that Imperial Princess has been awarded in her category at the 2013 World Superyacht Awards.  The standard of yachts within her class were exemplary and we are delighted to receive this internationally recognised accolade for our Princess 40M.  This is a tremendous achievement for all involved.”

Albert Levy, SYUK Chairman commented: “The consistent recognition of quality in design, construction, refit and engineering consultancy evidences a depth of experience and knowledge at the highest level. This enhances the attraction of the UK’s Superyacht Industry to all who work in it and more especially the owners who have entrusted their projects to, in particular the winners of the Awards, whose teams are to be congratulated for their singular efforts.”

Along with the success of the BMF and SYUK members further British accomplishments were recognised with Overall Motor Yacht of the Year and winner of the Raised Pilothouse Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yacht awards going to luxury yacht Loretta Anne, designed by Dubois Naval Architects Ltd and with interior design completed by Donald Starkey Designs.

47m Alloy motor yacht Loretta Anne designed by Dubois

47m Alloy motor yacht Loretta Anne designed by Dubois

Charter yacht Endeavour won Refitted Sailing Yacht with its interior design created by John Munford and Adam Lay while superyacht Mogambo took Displacement Motor Yacht of 1,300GT and Above with its exterior and interior design by Reymond Langton Design.

The World Superyacht Awards, in its eighth year, took place at the stunning Ciragan Palace Kempinski, Istanbul, Turkey on 4 May, celebrated the finest new superyacht builds delivered to their owners in the last 12 months. News broadcaster, Natasha Kaplinsky presented the coveted silver Neptune awards and five Judge’s Commendation prizes to the superyacht owners and industry professionals.

Classic Charter Yacht Endeavour

Classic Charter Yacht Endeavour

The UK superyacht industry is a significant contributor in the global arena, delivering revenue over £440million and employing around 3,550, according to the latest Superyacht UK statistics. The diverse nature of the UK’s offering to the superyacht sector has allowed the industry to continue providing excellent services thanks to its refit, broking, design, insurance and legal offerings. British excellence within the industry was highly recognised on the international stage at the spectacular awards event where eight British companies were acknowledged for their expertise and success in the industry.

Dykstra Naval Architects yachts honoured with 4 World Superyacht Awards 2013

May 08, 2013

Taken place in Istanbul, on May 4th 2013, the World Superyacht Awards ceremony was attended by plenty of Superyacht owners as well as Superyacht industry members. During the event, the prestigious Dutch luxury yacht design studio, Dykstra Naval Architects, received four Awards.

Royal Huisman Pumula Yacht designed by Dykstra Naval Architects - Cory Silken

Royal Huisman Pumula Yacht designed by Dykstra Naval Architects - Cory Silken

Dykstra Naval Architects has won ‘Sailing Yacht of the Year’ and ‘Best Sailing yacht in the 30m – 39m size range’ for the 37,3 m classic sailing yacht “Pumula”, Naval architecture and exterior styling by Dykstra Naval Architects, Interior by Rhoades Young design and built by Royal Huisman.

40 m J-Class superyacht Rainbow by Holland Jachtbouw

40 m J-Class superyacht Rainbow by Holland Jachtbouw

J Class superyacht “Rainbow” won the ‘Best Sailing yacht in the 39m+ range’, Naval Architecture and exterior styling by Dykstra Naval Architects, Interior by deVosdeVries design/Dykstra Naval Architects and built by Holland Jachtbouw.

Classic Charter Yacht Endeavour

Classic Charter Yacht Endeavour

The Award for Best refitted Sailing yacht went to J Class charter yacht “Endeavour”, Naval Architecture on the refit by Dykstra Naval Architects, exterior styling by Jon Barrett Associates and interior design by John Munford/Adam Lay Studio.

Maltese Falcon -  (2)

Maltese Falcon - (2)

Tom Perkins received the Legacy Award for his achievements, one of them was building charter yacht “Maltese Falcon”, naval architecture Dykstra Naval Architects.

Great success of Yachting Developments at World Superyacht Awards 2013

May 07, 2013

Yachting Developments is proud to announce their success at this year’s World Superyacht Awards, taking place in Istanbul, Saturday 4th May. The prestigious NZ builder was presented as the winner in both the Refitted category for their outstanding refit of the legendary J Class charter yacht Endeavour JK4, as well as Judges Special Award for Catamarans, for their new build, the 100-foot sailing catamaran yacht Quintessential (Q5).

J Class charter yacht Endeavour refitted by Yachting Developments

J Class charter yacht Endeavour refitted by Yachting Developments

It is easy to see why luxury yacht Endeavour has been awarded the best Refitted yacht, the extensive 18month refit of Endeavour JK4 included the replacement of the complete weather deck, new deck equipment, relocation of steel deck framing, reconfiguration of the accommodation forward and new interior. The main engine, electrical system, electronics, air conditioning, hydraulics bow thruster and winches were all replaced. A new carbon fibre mast was built by Southern Spars and the new interior was built in house by Yachting Developments tradesmen. Dykstra & Partners Naval Architects, have been instrumental in the design of the new sail plan, deck layout, and structural engineering. The interior was collaborated by John Munford and Adam Lay Design Studios to ensure the originality of the boat was maintained.

Care was taken throughout the refit to preserve as much of the vessel as practical, yet still enhance performance and improve functionality.

30m sailing yacht Q5 Quintessential (hull YD 66) by Yachting Developments

30m sailing yacht Q5 Quintessential (hull YD 66) by Yachting Developments

Superyacht Quintessential is a 100ft composite sailing Catamaran, built in house at Yachting Developments Auckland, New Zealand. Not for the faint hearted, this superyacht was built with the main purpose to be to entertain friends and family, this superyacht has a very welcoming feel and is definitely a luxurious home away from home.

Yachting Developments teamed up with Auckland based Superyacht Interiors New Zealand (SINZ) in creating a stunning traditional teak interior and spacious outdoor entertainment/bar area. Naval architecture and exterior styling is by Warwick Yacht Design and Yachting Developments, interior design is by Redman Whiteley Dixon and Owners representation has been provided by Newport based Marine Construction Management (MCM)

The carbon fibre mast was built by Southern Spars NZ and stepped at Yachting Developments yard at Hobsonville prior to launching, sails were custom built by Doyles NZ.

Inaugural Palma Superyacht Brokerage & Charter Show increases its area

March 29, 2013

Due to an overwhelming demand from companies wishing to showcase their yachts, the inaugural Palma Superyacht Brokerage & Charter Show has been forced to increase its area. To take place within the Palma Boat Show from May 1 to 5, the event now provides more than 60 moorings available to display yachts for both sale as well as charter from 24m in length.

Luxury sailing yacht CANICA to be exhibited at the Inaugural Palma Brokerage & Charter Show - Photo credit Baltic Yachts

Luxury sailing yacht CANICA to be exhibited at the Inaugural Palma Superyacht Brokerage & Charter Show - Photo credit Baltic Yachts

“We were surprised by the demand from brokers that wanted to exhibit their yachts at the show. However this really just enforces our conviction that there is definitely a market for this show in Palma”, commented Marc Händle, vice president of the newly formed Balearic Yacht Brokers Association, (BYBA) who is organizing the event.

An impressive range of yachts will be on view. Confirmed is the 44m sailing yacht Canica, built by Baltic Yachts with a Judel/Vrolijk design pedigree. This fast performance sailing yacht, constructed using the best lightweight materials, reaches speeds of over 20 knots and has an interior design by renowned John Munford.

Also confirmed is the 36.5m motor yacht Gin Tonic which offers accommodation for 12 guests and a large exterior area. Her spacious al fresco dining areas also provide plenty of room for guests to enjoy the spectacular surroundings at sea.

To compliment the show there will be a large tent that will house a champagne bar, a chill out area as well as a bar where visitors can relax and enjoy a gin and tonic of a different kind. Each evening will see live music played around sunset to round off the perfect day.

The RSYC’s annual Fitting Out Supper attended by the world’s top yacht designers

March 26, 2013

Taken place on Saturday, March 23, the Royal Southern Yacht Club‘s annual Fitting Out Supper provided the club’s members with a rare opportunity to participate in a unique question and answer session with three world-class yacht designers.

Gentlemen. Your presence is requested....Photo by Sheelagh Cohen

Gentlemen. Your presence is requested....Photo by Sheelagh Cohen

Following dinner, 150 members of the Hamble-based Club that celebrated its 175th Anniversary in 2012, welcomed Bill Dixon, Rob Humphreys and John Munford, each of whom gave a short presentation based upon their most satisfying project.

Yacht designer Bill Dixon chose the design process of the Moody 45DS as one of his most challenging and satisfying projects liking it to ‘Marmite’, as in some might like it whilst others might not. Dixon highlighted the design that allows the twin benefits of fast passage under sail and advantages of motor sailing whilst featuring excellent visibility and control of a unique design of cockpit and deckhouse saloon on its single level.

Rob Humphreys gave a short synopsis of many projects including an Oyster 885 (example is sailing yacht Lush), an Elan 350 and Ermis2, a custom build posing a real technical challenge that had made it particularly interesting and enjoyable. As a project deemed most satisfying, Humphreys settled on Apriori, a custom wooden sailing yacht which started life by winning RORC Yacht of the Year twice and has enjoyed the same ownership for some 27 years.

John Munford featured his design of Archimedes, noting particular challenges as being fireplaces and mosaic floors. Munford likened his projects as being ‘strawberries for breakfast, irrespective of where and when’.

Whilst each designer opted for quite differing projects, the trio agreed that design is an art form, the use of computers being mere tools to make life easier.

Pendennis Refit: The 49m Feadship charter yacht TELEOST designed by De Voogt

November 23, 2012

Measuring 49 meters in length, the splendid charter yacht Teleost visited Pendennis Falmouth yard early October to start her six-month refit. Designed by De Voogt, Teleost superyacht was built by the respected Dutch shipyard Feadship in 1998. She provides luxury yacht charters in the popular Mediterranean as well as the fabulous Indian Ocean.

Teleost Profile

Teleost Profile

Luxury yacht Teleost previously visited the UK facility in 2008. She will now be undergoing her 5-year survey as well as a substantial upgrade to her interiors, originally designed by renowned John Munford. She can comfortably sleep up to 12 charter guests in 6 lovely staterooms.

Teleost Master Cabin saloon

Teleost Master Cabin saloon

Special rate for the New England charter yacht AXIA by Palmer Johnson

August 17, 2012

Sailing yacht AXIA is a 37,5 metre Palmer Johnson built luxury superyacht currently available for charter in New England for a special rate of US$ 59,000 per week plus expenses, for charters taking place in August and September. In addition, you will receive two more free days with a one week booking! Built in 1990, with numerous refits and continuous upgrades, charter yacht AXIA is an exceptional yacht accommodating 6-8 guests aboard.

AXIA

AXIA

Axia Main Saloon

Axia Main Saloon

Created in perfect collaboration between her naval architects of Sparkman & Stephens, John Munford for interior design and Palmer Johnson as yacht builder, superyacht AXIA will take you around New England in comfort and style, guaranteed by her professional crew of 5.

Axia Pilot house

Axia Pilot house

Take some time of to relax in the expansive main saloon or enjoy a great meal in the dining area featuring Munford teak fielded panels and polished brass accents. AXIA yacht has a classical nautical style and graceful elegance that benefits her name, which in Greek means ‘Worthy’.

Axia Aft Deck

Axia Aft Deck

Axia Mater Suite

Axia Mater Suite

For alfresco entertaining and dining, luxury yacht AXIA boasts a spacious cockpit area with a large dining table and settees. Furthermore, her large aft deck features teak lounge chairs for relaxing under the sun, stars or in the shade of the awning.

Axia Study

Axia Study

Accommodation for eight charter guests aboard includes a spacious and elegant full-beam Master Stateroom situated aft, boasting sumptuous Italian Frette linens, a dressing table, generous wardrobes, as well as a settee, which can be converted into two bunks for small children. Her large en-suite bathroom boasts a bathtub, toilet and bidet with Italian Calcutta golden vein marble throughout heads. There are two beautifully appointed port and starboard guest staterooms, both featuring twin beds and en-suite heads with shower, toilet and bidet. The Family Room contains a desk, entertainment centre and sleeper sofa for 1 additional charter guest, who would need to share head with one of the staterooms.

New England Yacht Charters

New England Yacht Charters are beautiful in their diversity, offering an incredible amount of places and cultures to discover. The six states: Rhode Island, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, can be all experienced in one week charter, however you might be tempted to discover each one of them in depth and spend your entire charter holiday in just one particular location.

Village in Portland - New England

Village in Portland - New England

An excellent location for luxury sailing yacht charters, New England offers a wealth of maritime history, spectacular rocky coastline, lovely towns with restaurants offering tasty fresh seafood dishes.

If you are interested in chartering AXIA yacht in this spectacular charter location, please contact our charter brokers here.

4 Dubois designed superyachts confirm their participation in the 2012 Newport Bucket Regatta

May 23, 2012

Four wonderful Dubois designed vessels, including the 44.7m sailing yacht Lady B, the 42.9m luxury yacht Drumbeg, the 49.7m superyacht Zefira as well as the 44.8m Timoneer superyacht have all confirmed their participation in the 2012 Newport Bucket Regatta, running from August 24 to 26.

44.7m sailing yacht Lady B

44.7m Vitters sailing yacht Lady B - Image courtesy of Dubois Naval Architects

Lady B
Winner of the World Superyacht Awards 2011 in the ‘Judges’ Commendation’ category, the 44.7m sailing yacht Lady B is a magnificent sloop, delivered by the prominent Dutch builder Vitters Shipyard in 2010. With naval architecture as well as exterior styling by Dubois Naval Architects, the Lady B boasts lovely interior by respected Rhoades Young Design and offers 4 beautiful staterooms to 8 guests, looked after by an impeccable crew of 6.

42.9m luxury yacht Drumberg by Vitters Shipyard

42.9m luxury yacht Drumberg by Vitters Shipyard - Image courtesy of Dubois Naval Architects

Drumberg
Launched by Vitters Shipyard in 2004, the 42.9m superyacht Drumberg (ex Nelson, ex Gimla) is a fast, exceptionally elegant and very comfortable sloop. Dubois designed Drumberg features modern interior by Rhoades Young Design, providing 5 stunning staterooms for a total number of 10 guests.

49.7m Fitzroy superyacht Zefira

49.7m Fitzroy superyacht Zefira - Image courtesy of Dubois Naval Architects

Zefira
Winner of the both World Superyacht Awards 2011 as well as the ShowBoats Design Awards 2011, the 49.7m luxury yacht Zefira is the largest sloop Dubois Naval Architects has launched to date without a flybridge. Delivered by Fitzroy Yachts in 2010, Zefira’s elegant and comfortable interior by Remi Tessier easily sleeps 8 guests in 4 beautiful staterooms.

44.8m sailing yacht Timoneer by Vitters Shipyard

44.8m sailing yacht Timoneer by Vitters Shipyard - Image courtesy of Dubois Naval Architects

Timoneer
Measuring 44.8 metres, the Timoneer superyacht is a luxury ketch-rigged sailboat, launched by Vitters Shipyard in 2001. With splendid interior by John Munford Design, the all-aluminium Dubois designed Timoneer provides 8 guests with the utmost in luxury in 4 comfortable staterooms.

The first interior images of the 130ft J Class charter yacht ENDEAVOUR refitted by Yachting Developments

May 22, 2012

The first interior images of the newly refitted 77 year old J class sailing yacht Endeavour have now been revealed. Following the 18 month refit at the renowned Auckland-based shipyard Yachting Developments, the luxury charter yacht Endeavour is now simply magnificent.

130ft J Class charter yacht Endeavour - Image courtesy of Yachting Developments

130ft J Class charter yacht Endeavour - Image courtesy of Yachting Developments

More than 100,000 man hours have gone into the project and in excess of 40 tonnes of material was removed and replaced on the J class luxury yacht Endeavour during the refit.

There has been a long term philosophy of longevity and serviceability throughout the refit, ensuring the 130ft superyacht Endeavour will remain the historic icon she is today for future generations.

Superyacht Endeavour - Polish

Superyacht Endeavour - Polish Image courtesy of Yachting Developments

Through the use of 3D modelling it was possible to accurately create a space saving but serviceable layout in the under floor engine room and service areas. The refit included removal and replacement of the complete weather deck including all deck equipment. Steel deck framing has also been relocated to accommodate the new load paths of the new deck layout.  The number of deck winches was reduced from 28 to 14 and all dorades were removed in keeping with her original appearance.

Luxury sailing yacht Endeavour - Saloon

Luxury sailing yacht Endeavour - Saloon Image courtesy of Yachting Developments

Dykstra & Partners Naval Architects, were instrumental in the design of the new sail plan, deck layout and structural engineering.

Accommodation forward of the mast has been reconfigured by John Munford and Adam Lay and the new interior has been built in-house by Yachting Developments tradesmen.

130ft sailing yacht Endeavour - Hallway

130ft sailing yacht Endeavour - Hallway Image courtesy of Yachting Developments

The main engine, generators, hydraulic systems, winches, electrical system, electronics, bow thruster, and air conditioning have all been replaced.

The new carbon fibre mast was built by Southern Spars in Auckland and features EC6 standing rigging.

J Class luxury yacht Endeavour - Galley

J Class luxury yacht Endeavour - Galley Image courtesy of Yachting Developments

Absolute care has been taken throughout the refit to preserve as much of the vessel as practical while taking advantage of twenty first century sailing systems, enhanced performance and improved functionality.

The owner’s project management is by Jon Barrett Associates whom have had over 25 years experience in this role with the Endeavour yacht.

Endeavour superyacht - Engine Room

Endeavour superyacht - Engine Room Image courtesy of Yachting Developments

Recently the St Barths Bucket Regatta held in the Caribbean, hosted four J Class vessels. Indeed it was the first time ever that the 130ft charter yacht Endeavour,  the 138ft sailing yacht Hanuman, the 136ft charter yacht Ranger and the 129ft superyacht Velsheda had lined up and raced against each other in the same regatta. Endeavour’s refit was quickly validated with an outstanding performance and end result.

110ft Palmer Johnson sailing yacht Keewaydin has arrived at Dennis Conner’s North Cove

May 11, 2012

Luxury superyacht marina, Dennis Conner’s North Cove, is happy to welcome the 110ft sailing yacht Keewaydin in New York City. Constructed by the respected US shipyard Palmer Johnson in 1996 and refitted in 2010, the Keewaydin superyacht boasts naval architecture by John G. Alden Design, with beautiful interior by John Munford.

110ft Palmer Johnson superyacht Keewaydin in NYC

110ft Palmer Johnson superyacht Keewaydin in NYC

Palmer Johnson luxury yacht Keewaydin has traveled throughout Europe and the Caribbean.  She has 3 staterooms and cruises at 11 knots.  The crew has been busy aboard cleaning and polishing to get ready for the summer boating season.