Spain Brief

Spain Luxury Yacht Charter & Superyacht News

Marina Port Vell – Sponsor of Conde de Godó Regatta and Sailing Control Yacht

May 23, 2013

Positioned in the lovely Spanish yacht charter location – Barcelona, Marina Port Vell (MPV), set to become one of the world’s most elite superyacht destinations and, with phased marina completions throughout 2013, the pre-eminent home port in the Mediterranean, starts sponsorship of the 2013 Regatta Conde de Godó today, on May 23. The race takes place through Saturday, May 25.

Marina Port Vell Sponsored Sailing Control Yacht in Port

Marina Port Vell Sponsored Sailing Control Yacht in Port

2013 marks the 40th edition of the Regatta which features 60 boats from 9m-40m with a growing international race roster. Marina Port Vell supports the event in a number of ways: by providing mooring for 20 of the boats for 2 weeks; by sponsoring the real time race tracking program; and, in sponsoring the Soto40 yacht Sailing Control.

The regatta tracking program, Sailing Control Tracking, provides tracking solutions and covers nautical events from professional needs to social events. The Soto40 class (like others such as Tp52, Farr 40 or Open 60) brings together a group of vessels of the same features and designed to extract full power. It has two permanent competitions—one in South America and one in Europe—and a world championship.

Marina Port Vell Sponsored Sailing Control Yacht Racing

Marina Port Vell Sponsored Sailing Control Yacht Racing

Marina Port Vell is proud to be participating as a supporter of this noteworthy annual sailing competition.

Mobilona confirms plans for €1.5 billion initial investment for ‘space hotel’ and superyacht marina in Barcelona

May 23, 2013

Jerome Bottari, Global CEO of Mobilona, confirmed his company’s plans for a €1.5 billion initial investment for the development of Barcelona Island as well as construction of more than 2,000 hotel suites and luxury residences.

PR-Picture


The company will finalize the initial design proposal by Barcelona-based architect Erik Morvan so ‘Mobilona Space Hotel’ will meet the requirements of one of the four municipality candidates. The development will include the world’s first Covered Superyacht Marina, a 24-hour ‘Space Mall’ and a ‘zero-gravity’ spa off the coast of Barcelona. Mobilona also plans to build green energy plants to supply Barcelona Island and the people of Barcelona with electricity.

“In order to be open and transparent in the process, we give the four selected municipalities an equal opportunity to compete for the project,” says Mr. Bottari. “Local government, Catalunya and Spain will all play an important role in the creation of a Special Economic Zone called ‘Barcelona Island’.”

Mobilona, a California company, has also chosen Barcelona as its European headquarters for an Immersive Technology Center on Barcelona Island to develop the next generation of smart building and hotel technology. For this purpose Mobilona will hire local talents and do business with outstanding local companies.

Along with its hotel development, Mobilona will create well-paid technology jobs so the next generation in Barcelona and Spain is able to enjoy a modern lifestyle and buy homes with the latest smart technology.

“Barcelona is one of the greatest cities in the world and we welcome everyone to work with us to turn Barcelona Island into Europe’s new hotspot,” says Jerome Bottari.

About Barcelona Island by Mobilona

Barcelona Island will be an out of this world experience for all guests of ‘Mobilona Space Hotel’ who wish they could travel to distant galaxies. The man-made island off the coast of Barcelona will be built by a multinational consortium under the leadership of Mobilona’s Global CEO Jerome Bottari and represents an initial investment projected at €1.5 billion. Mobilona is committed to improving the climate by operating Barcelona Island with zero carbon emissions and by producing green energy for the people of Barcelona.

About Mobilona

Mobilona Space Hotels™ in Barcelona, Los Angeles and Hong Kong will be constructed by a multinational consortium under the leadership of Mobilona’s Global CEO Jerome Bottari and represent an estimated value of over $6 billion. Mr. Bottari also established Mobilona Immersive Technology Centers™ to create surround experiences in buildings. Gigantic immersive displays replace conventional walls and windows and provide hotel guests and residents with lifelike views of anything they desire.

Latest 55m motor yacht QUARTZ concept by Luiz de Basto

May 22, 2013

Luiz de Basto is pleased to introduce his latest 55m motor yacht Quartz concept. The magnificent Quartz yacht concept has been developed to provide a luxurious and exclusive yachting experience of maximum visual and physical contact with the water as well as nature. In order to achieve that, some old pre-conceived ideas about how a yacht looks like needed to be challenged.

Latest 55m superyacht Quartz concept introduced by Luiz de Basto

Latest 55m superyacht Quartz concept introduced by Luiz de Basto

Luiz de Basto was interested in exploring the relationship between the hull and superstructure and avoid the generic look we see in so many yachts today. However, to him yacht design is never a matter of style, it’s a matter of architecture and technology working together seamless, achieving the type of results we can appreciate on a samurai sword or an iPhone. With this approach in mind there’s no space for the cosmetic or superficial, everything has a function to fulfill, or even two, and its beauty comes from the correct use of technology.

Glass technology for instance. Today it’s possible to use this material in the nautical world in ways not obvious just a few years ago. As opposed to other previous designs that Luiz de Basto developed using curved glass, this time he has decided to use high performance flat glass in order to lower the cost, engineering and construction time, and use some existing off the shelve products available today.

55m superyacht Quartz concept - aft view

55m superyacht Quartz concept - aft view

For instance, the use of double glazing with an air cushion separating the glass panels and the insertion of venetian blinds in the gap to control the light and privacy. A metallic film is applied to the glass layers to reduce glare and UV penetration and with thermal proprieties that reduce the heat for more than 65%.  In addition, radiant walls and floors can be used for heating and cooling. Also the use of privacy glass which can be dimmed, allows for a total control of AC loads and privacy.

So why not make floor to ceiling outside walls like in the modern skyscraper and residences? That’s how the upper deck volume was created, with its pavilion like shape, which then was suspended from the deck to provide for a wave breaker in the front. Then using the gap for natural light, creating an upper window below in the main deck was a natural result, which increases the headroom below to 3 meters (10 feet) completely unusual on yachts of this size or even larger. This upper window runs all the way around under the pavilion, going from the main salon to the owner’s stateroom in the front area, below the pilot house.

55m motor yacht Quartz concept

55m motor yacht Quartz concept

The pilot house windshield uses structural glass and also goes from floor to ceiling, with the console designed as a piece of free standing furniture, placed exactly where the headroom becomes too low for standing. Two doors on each side provide access to the crew.

The side glasses are mounted on tracks and, combined with handrails placed on the inside, can slide to create balconies. The aft deck, thanks to this feature, can be completely enclosed for protection on a windy day or completely open.

Luxury yacht Quartz concept - upview

Luxury yacht Quartz concept - upview

Because the shaded area is part of the raised pavilion, the difference in level creates a natural separation and layout organization for the upper aft deck.

From the upper aft deck, two stairways on each side lead up to the covered flybridge, with handrails also in glass. A bar is placed just forward of the mast and a relaxing seating area is in the front, to enjoy the sun and views during navigation.

Motor yacht Quartz concept

Motor yacht Quartz concept

The base of the mast encloses a day head and is the support for a suspended roof overhanging in all directions, like a giant umbrella, with no pillars around the perimeter to spoil the views.

Also from the upper aft deck, two stairways lead down to the main aft deck.

55m Quartz Yacht Concept

55m Quartz Yacht Concept

Luiz de Basto believes all this features are already interesting enough to define a rather striking design and achieve views in all directions. However, a close physical contact with the water was still missing, so using my previous experience with a smaller design, the 63′ Top Deck now in construction by Astondoa in Spain, he decided to apply that concept on a larger size and make the aft deck to open completely with hinge down panels. Under navigation the transom is completely enclosed, no swim platform or stairways, a good security feature on itself, but upon arrival at your destination, it can be completely flipped down to be used as a deck and revealing the stairways for normal use.

Moreover, the aft sides of the hull can also be flipped down as well to reveal a beach club, from port to starboard. This provides a unique living space at the water level. To increase even more the additional space the flip down panels include the bulwark above leaving behind, when open, a fixed handrail installed separately. Of course the beach club area is completely waterproof and can also be used to store water toys, such as jet skies, kayaks, small sail boats, etc. The transom and fold down panels combined extend the deck areas by 65 sq meters or 700 sq feet when open. Any of them can be used as a deck space or embarkation areas, stairways are provided on each side.

Quartz Yacht Concept - front view

Quartz Yacht Concept - front view

The tender garage is located forward, right below the swimming pool on the fore main deck which is also covered by teak panels when not in use. The garage has door on both sides which open upwards, it’s partially divided by the pool and can accommodate a 6.5 meter tender and 3 large wave runners. Worth of mention is the service stairway that runs just forward of the garage, from the main deck recessed fore area with the anchor windlasses to the lower deck crew area. With this feature there’s a complete separation between crew and guests and a safe operation is guaranteed.

The current layout provides four staterooms down below with discreet access to the crew, with the owner’s on main deck forward just aft the garage. Galley is also on main deck port side with direct access to the crew down below.

Quartz Yacht Concept - side view

Quartz Yacht Concept - side view

The overall result is a striking different look combined with cutting edge technology but perfectly feasible yacht with a cost not to exceed conventional designs of the same size, however to be built only by a very experienced and capable yard. No doubt the amount of glass and movable parts are a demanding engineering challenge but that’s what sets this design apart and that’s exactly what can provide a luxurious yachting experience to a very special owner and his happy family.

After developing the concept and looking for a name Luiz de Basto thought Quartz to be a perfect one. Although the hull shape and configuration look normal at first sight, they are not as we just saw, the upper deck is a geometric shape wrapped in glass that reminds a quartz crystal for its edges and transparency.

55m superyacht Quartz concept - Exterior

55m superyacht Quartz concept - Exterior

On a final note, it’s of course possible to apply the 55m Quartz superyacht design and its features to a smaller or larger size.

Superyacht Cup Palma 2013: Sponsors announced and participation of 19 yachts confirmed

May 21, 2013

Set to take place from June 19 to 22, the Superyacht Cup Palma is very delighted to announce return of sponsors Claasen Shipyard, Marina Port Vell as well as Rondal. Now in its 17th year, The Superyacht Cup is a popular annual 4-day regatta in the Bay of Palma, drawing attention of some of the most beautiful sailing superyachts in the world, coming to enjoy competitive sailing as well as a relaxed and informal social programme.

Superyacht Cup Palma annually hosted by the popular Spanish yacht charter destination - Palma

Superyacht Cup Palma annually hosted by the popular Spanish yacht charter destination - Palma Photo credit to Claire Matches

As builders of several of the participating yachts, Dutch yacht builders Claasen Shipyards are returning as Silver Sponsors for 2013. The yachts they have built competing in this years regatta include the stunning J Class yacht Lionheart, the F Class sailing yacht Firefly and the 27m classic charter yacht Atalante. This impressive range of beautiful yachts highlights their world-class skills and craftsmanship.

Organisers offer a warm welcome to returning Silver Sponsors, Marina Port Vell. Located in the heart of the Spanish City of Barcelona, a favorite vibrant cosmopolitan destination for yachts of all sizes, the Marina is currently undergoing a huge transformation to create 162 fully serviced berths for sail and power yachts up to 180m. The significant investment in state-of-the-art infrastructure and new seven-star services will position the marina as one of the leading superyacht destinations in the world.

Based in the Netherlands, Rondal is a powerhouse of the superyacht industry, serving a global clientele. Modern engineering skills, excellent craftsmanship and a constant emphasis on ingenuity are the hallmarks of a company that believes above all in forward thinking. They have had a long-standing relationship in supporting the Superyacht Cup Palma and building relationships with their clients participating in the event.

Superyacht Cup Palma 2013, June 19 - 22

Superyacht Cup Palma 2013, June 19 - 22 Photo credit to Claire Matches

The highly experienced race team at Real Club Nautico de Palma headed up by Gaspar Morey will again manage the all so important racing. The Superyachts will be using the new ISYR rating system, which was well received at the recent British Virgin Islands regatta and the St Barth’s Bucket, whereas the J Class yachts will fleet race in their own class under their JCA rules.

The SYC Dock is now at full capacity with 19 entries and a few places remain for yachts who shall be accommodated in close proximity. As in previous years the yachts will be berthed stern-to at Moll Vell (formerly Pier 46) and STP and a central tented area will be the base for the post-race social programme. The Prize Giving Evening will be held at Es Baluard Museum overlooking the Paseo Maritimo and the yachts in the Port of Palma with live music from Groov Collectiv.

Port Tarraco to become first Mediterranean superyacht marina with 6.6 kV onshore power

May 20, 2013

Port Tarraco, one of the Mediterranean’s only marinas with nine meter draft, making it perfect for deep water berthing of superyachts as well as megayachts, is proud to annouce that it is currently upgrading its onshore power system to 6.6 kV.

Port Tarraco Panorama

Port Tarraco situated in the popular Mediterranean yacht charter location - Spain

This latest standard in onshore power provides 6,600 volts, which is the system used by new giga yachts. This is backed up with Port Tarraco’s existing 1250 amps at 400 volts onshore power, making Port Tarraco now one of the only Mediterranean ports able to offer commercial and merchant marine standard power systems, which are becoming more commonly used on super and mega yachts.

The availability of stable, high power systems from the shore means that yachts in the marina can operate using single cables connected to shore power rather than running on-board generators while in port. The indication is that in the near future there will be European directives requiring that yachts and merchant vessels in port use onshore power rather than generators.

Sales and Marketing Executive at Port Tarraco, Margarete Kalinowski, says the installation of 6.6kV onshore power ensures Port Tarraco is prepared for forthcoming legal requirements and is ahead of the trend, which will see more mega and superyachts using 6.6kV power systems.

Located at the heart of the residential area of Tarragona on the Catalonian coast of Spain, this luxury marina can accommodate up to 64 yachts between 30 and 160 meters. Its significance as a safe and deep water port is well documented. The port dates back to 2,000 BC when it was a strategic port in the Roman Empire, and the city of Tarragona is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its Roman ruins and historic buildings make it a popular city for owners, captains and crews alike. Its proximity to Barcelona International Airport (40 minutes) and Reus International Airport (seven minutes away) which can land private jets and aircraft as large as 747s, makes Port Tarraco the ideal location for transient or long stay yachts.

Port Tarraco benefits from 150,000m2 of surface water area. Thanks to its long entry channel, it is safe from water surges or swell, and its perimeter glass wall, combined with security cameras and on site security guards ensures it is a safe and secure area at all times.

For the captains and crew, Port Tarraco offers the highest standards in yacht services and facilities including black and grey water discharge directly from each berth, fresh water connections, and plenty of storage areas and spaces for containers. There are high quality and luxurious offices available for use, with upland facilities for captains and crew, which is especially welcomed as many yachts berth for long periods with the crews using Port Tarraco as a home base for many months.

But above all, one of the key features of Port Tarraco is its dedicated customer service team which is on hand to provide total support for the captain, crew and owner. The team, who are fluent in five languages, are experienced at organising everything from on-the-spot guest itineraries to evening entertainment and local tours, through to medical issues or family support for those staying in the marina.

Port Tarraco is 95% owned by Qatari Diar and 5% stake is held by Marina Barcelona 92 (MB’92) which manages the marina. Mourjan Marinas IGY has been selected to handle the international sales and marketing of Port Tarraco marina.

PlanetSolar arrives in St. Martin and breaks her own record speed for solar-powered transatlantic crossing

May 20, 2013

After leaving Las Palmas in Spain on April 25 at 11:00 pm (local time), the largest solar boat in the world, PlanerSolar, arrived in Marigot, St. Martin in French West Indies, on May 18 at 6:32 am (local time), 22 days later. It is a new victory for the MS Tûranor PlanetSolar who smashed her own world record speed for a solar-powered transatlantic crossing, set in 26 days during her trip around the world.

PlanetSolar reached St. Martin

PlanetSolar reached St. Martin

This new achievement is part of PlanetSolar’s commitment to pushing the limits of technology even further during her 2013 missions, and above all, is a confirmation of the ship’s improvements following maintenance and optimization work. The ship will remain docked in the idyllic Fort Louis Marina in Marigot from May 18 – 22. She will then head for Miami (United States), where she will begin her “PlanetSolar DeepWater” scientific expedition along the Gulf Stream.

During the trip around the world (2010-2012), the MS Tûranor PlanetSolar sailed for 26 days from one side of the Atlantic to the other, thereby claiming the world record speed for a solar-powered transatlantic crossing and her first entry in the Guinness World Records™. It hasn’t been broken since. It was not until 2013 that the largest solar boat in the world repeated the trip to realize a new global accomplishment: 22 days, 12 hours, and 32 minutes.

Having left from Las Palmas (Spain) on April 25, 2013, the ship sailed 2867 miles (5310 km) across the Atlantic Ocean at the average speed of 5.3 knots before reaching Marigot (St. Martin, French West Indies) on May 18th. This new record is currently undergoing an authorization process at Guinness World Records™.

PlanetSolar in St. Martin

PlanetSolar in St. Martin

During the transatlantic crossing, the crew encountered phases of substantial cloudiness for several consecutive days, and regularly had to optimize their route. The MS Tûranor PlanetSolar’s captain, Gérard d’Aboville, explains that “it was necessary to make a significant deviation to the south, which increased the travelling distance by 7%, but enabled us to avoid winds and unfavorable swells.” Furthermore, the ship’s energy consumption had to be carefully managed in order to maintain an efficient speed and reach St. Martin in less than 26 days.

It is with great pride that the crew set foot on dry land after 22 days at sea: “Once again, the boat provided a brilliant demonstration of solar energy’s potential by breaking its own speed record for a transatlantic crossing set in 2010, improving it by 4 days, 6 hours, and 38 minutes. It is difficult to compare the two crossings because they were conducted at very different times of the year.

But it is certain that in light of the lessons learned during the trip around the world, the major maintenance projects carried out last winter—particularly to the propulsion system—have greatly improved the ship’s performance. She will now travel to Miami to begin her second life as part of an exploratory mission along the Gulf Stream current conducted by the University of Geneva,” said Gérard d’Aboville.

The arrival of the largest solar boat in the world was also cause for celebration in St. Martin. In preparation for her arrival, PlanetSolar was able to count on support from the Fort Louis Marina as well as from the St. Martin Tourism Office. Upon her arrival, PlanetSolar received a welcome as warm as her destination.

“PlanetSolarDeepWater”, a scientific expedition on the route of the Gulf Stream
After this West Indian stopover, the solar catamaran will head to Miami (United States) to begin the “PlanetSolar DeepWater” scientific expedition. From June to August 2013, a team led by Professor Martin Beniston, climatologist and director of the Institute of Environmental Sciences at the University of Geneva (UNIGE), will sail along the Gulf Stream ocean current, one of the most important regulators of the European and North American climates, covering over 8,000 kilometers from Miami (United States) to Bergen (Norway), by way of New York (United States), Boston (United States), and Reykjavik (Iceland).

A continuous series of physical and biological measurements will be taken in the air and water to study the key parameters of climate regulation, especially atmospheric aerosols and phytoplankton. Powered by solar energy, the ship does not emit any polluting substances that could distort the data collected.

The scientists’ objective is to understand the complex interactions between physics, biology, and climate, eventually enabling them to refine climate simulation, especially as it relates to energy exchanges between the ocean and the atmosphere. Furthermore, the project will raise the general public’s awareness of climate issues by developing educational activities and resources.

Piet Brouwer opens new office in Palma de Mallorca

May 15, 2013

Due to the continuous expansion of its business in the Mediterranean region, Piet Brouwer Electrotechnology has recently inaugurated a new, dedicated office in the popular summer yacht charter destination – Palma de Mallorca in Spain.

The fabulous Spanish yacht charter location - Palma de Mallorca

The fabulous Spanish yacht charter location - Palma de Mallorca

Based on the island of Urk in the Netherlands, the company has achieved global renown for designing and delivering quality electrical, navigation and alarm systems onboard superyachts and commercial vessels. Recent examples include the high-tech systems installed on the 47-metre charter yacht Lady Dee, the 49-metre motor yacht Nassima and a 46-metre Vicem yacht Vulcan (ex Caprice V) from the Vulcan Line series.

To ensure the quality of the delivered systems and provide a comprehensive service to customers, Piet Brouwer Electrotechnology has an extensive and highly experienced service department. This division provides worldwide service for the electrical systems installed on yachts and commercial vessels. Service is provided for electrical installations delivered by Piet Brouwer Electrotechnology, and maintenance and service work can also be carried out on other vessels.

The service engineers stand ready to provide 24/7 assistance wherever needed, and can fly across the world in no time to give support on request. They have a wealth of experience in both yachtbuilding and commercial shipping & fishing, which the engineers deploy to quickly solve complex problems and keep downtime to a minimum.

New dedicated office of Piet Brouwer in Palma de Mallorca

New dedicated office of Piet Brouwer in Palma de Mallorca

The office and workshop in Palma de Mallorca will offer services related to maintenance and service, as well as measurements, inspections, modifications, alterations or even complete refits. Upgrades to existing systems can also be carried out to ensure that onboard comfort remains optimal. This new facility, which permanently hosts engineers and management in Palma, was a logical consequence of the increasing amount of work available in Palma for the Dutch company.

The office and workshop are located on the Carrer Monseñor Palmer, within walking distance of many of Palma de Mallorca’s marinas. This is also the location of the warehouse, from where common items are delivered directly from stock. The new location allows engineers to quickly be on site whenever assistance is required.

Thanks to the short communication lines with the headquarters on Urk, backup is always available and flexible deployment assured. First-class support for engineering, panel installation, inventory and logistics is also guaranteed along with more engineer manpower when required.

The new establishment allows Piet Brouwer to deliver the finest quality and service, making it ‘Your best partner in electrical engineering’ on Mallorca and throughout the Mediterranean.

The Overmarine Group | Mangusta opens new office in the Balearic Islands

May 09, 2013

The Overmarine Group | Mangusta service for Yacht Owners in the western Mediterranean has been additionally reinforced with a new office, inaugurated in the lovely Spanish yacht charter destination – Palma de Mallorca.

New Mangusta Office in Puerto Portals

New Mangusta Office in the Puerto Portals superyacht marina

Last Saturday, 4th May, Michl Marine, Group’s partner in promoting Mangusta in the Balearic Islands and in providing assistance for those clients who visit these waters regularly, inaugurated the new office in Mallorca which flanks the one already in Marina Ibiza.

There were many Mangusta enthusiasts present to celebrate the elegant new location, situated strategically in Puerto Portals, a glamorous superyacht marina with a unique atmosphere just a few kilometres from Palma.

This is an important reference point for Mangusta Owners in the Spanish archipelago, where Michl Marine offers a fast, high quality service, 7 days a week to both current and new owners.

Below is a gallery for the spectacular charter yachts built by The Overmarine Group – Mangusta.

Mangusta (Overmarine) Charter Yacht Images

ZEUS - Foredeck
ZEUS - Foredeck
ZEUS - Aftdeck
ZEUS - Aftdeck
ZEUS - Underway at Speed
ZEUS - Underway at Speed
ZEUS - Dining Room
ZEUS - Dining Room
ZEUS - Aft Alfresco Dining
ZEUS - Aft Alfresco Dining
ZEUS - Saloon
ZEUS - Saloon
More: Mangusta (Overmarine) Image Gallery

A very successful Palma International Boat Show 2013

May 07, 2013

Having closed its doors on Sunday, May 5, the 30th edition of the Palma International Boat Show hosted an impressive number of around 37,000 visitors. Amongst them was the King’s only son, Crown Prince Felipe, the first time in 30 years that a member of the Spanish royal family has attended.

Palma International Boat Show 2013

Palma International Boat Show 2013

A keen sailor, even competing in the 1992 Olympics as part of the Spanish sailing team, Crown Prince Felipe paid a surprise visit to the Show to present the Marcial Sanchez-Barcaiztegui Award, the first of its kind to recognise those who promote sailing. Sanchez-Barcaiztegui was one of the most respected and loved personalities in the sailing world and played a fundamental role in the promotion of the sport throughout Spain.  Having paid tribute, Prince Felipe spent more than an hour walking around the Boat Show, greeting both exhibitors and the public.

Director of the Palma International Boat Show, Chema Sans, was delighted at the event’s success, “This was a completely different Show from 2011. Most notably, it has grown a lot, the number of exhibitors was up 25% and the sea-based exhibition area up 76%, largely due to the crucial addition of a Superyacht Brokerage & Charter Show – a venture that makes a good deal of sense for the Balearics.  Last year Monaco reported a record attendance of 33,000, we know for sure that we have beaten this figure and certainly had many more sailing superyachts on display. In total 47 superyachts over 24 metres lined the quayside of Moll Vell marina and, based on this year’s runaway success, I envisage this expanding to 65 or more for 2014.”

Palma International Boat Show 2013 attended by 37,000 visitors

Palma International Boat Show 2013 attended by 37,000 visitors

Chema continued, “All the exhibitors I have spoken with seemed to be happy having gathered quality contacts and conducted serious business. Those promoting smaller craft may not have sold ten boats at the Show, as could have been the case a decade ago, but have had their expectations exceeded considering the difficult economic environment. Many are already thinking about next year, discussing their stand and berthing requirements. And, with the all-new eight million euro Moll Vell due to be complete and open for business by spring 2014, the Show can only build in importance and quality.”

Palma International Boat Show 2013 hosted by the popular Mediterranean yacht charter destination - Palma

Palma International Boat Show 2013 hosted by the popular Mediterranean yacht charter destination - Palma

For the 30th edition, public and private sector worked together to remodel the Show into a nautical week with TapaMar gastronomy, the Gaastra PalmaVela regatta and Maremostra Ocean Film Festival running alongside the more traditional boats, accessories and services. The intention was to promote the Islands, in particular Palma, and confirm their strategic importance in tourism and yachting – giving impetus to the economy and job creation.

Speaking exclusively to nautical channel NTVE.TV, Jose Ramon Bauza, President of the Balearic Islands who declared the Show open on 1 May, said, “It is absolutely necessary for our economy, because now we want to improve our economy, we want to give opportunity for unemployed people and we want to be very proud of our industry in this nautical sector because they say we are the best all over the world.”

Luxury yacht tender builder Chris-Craft at the Palma International Boat Show 2013

Luxury yacht tender builder Chris-Craft at the Palma International Boat Show 2013

Quotes from exhibitors:

Paul Allan, Portbooker: “This is the Show that Palma has been missing.  The Superyacht Brokerage & Charter Show in particular has given us a great platform to launch our brand new 40 metre plus website, and we’ve generated keen interest from marina partners and end-users over the past five days. We’re a global business but with strong local representation in the Balearics and we recognise these Islands as the leading nautical destination in the Med.”

Jimmy Blackburn, Fairline South Mallorca: “The weather has been fantastic and Mallorca is a great place for our customers to come and see us – a touch point to build relationships. We’ve gathered good leads, via previously known customers and new business, and it’s brilliant that we’ve been allowed to bring both new and used boats to the Show, priced between 200,000 and 1.4 million pounds.  We will return in 2014.”

Stuart Bray, Bray Marine International: “At long last they’ve got it right. We’ve had a very productive five days, busy with customers.  We will be back next year.”

Jamie Collins, Oyster Yachts: “Compared with 2011, the Superyacht Brokerage & Charter Show has brought a new dimension to the Palma International Boat Show. Inter-broker cooperation is key to business existence on the Island and it has worked well. Footfall has been impressive, aided I am sure by three non-working days, a bank holiday and the weekend. Our Oyster 100 superyacht Penelope has been received well on her debut and it has been nice to see yachts of a similar size and usability alongside her. A large mix of nationalities from Russian to British, German to Italian, have come on board for a viewing and all been impressed. We’re very pleased and keen to participate again next year.”

Peter Franklin, The Islander magazine and NTVE.TV: “We were thrilled to have been awarded a contract by Show organisers to handle international promotion of the event. To then see it become such a great success has delighted the whole team. Part of our contract was to provide internet-based and local terrestrial TV coverage of the whole Show. To focus our programming we awarded ten ‘Captains Lounge Best in Show’ prizes which included six yachts across the size range – motor and sail – now viewable on our website. We look forward to being involved in an even bigger Palma International Boat Show in 2014.”

Marc Kelly, Palma Refit: “The revamped Show has been well received and feedback positive. Without the Superyacht Brokerage & Charter Show we would not be here, as superyachts are our main target market, and in my opinion it’s been a long time coming. Not only have we been able to network and generate leads, but we’ve also been able to reinforce our image in the marketplace. We will be back next year.”

Salvador Sancho, Marina Estrella: “With last year’s Show postponed, it gave the event the opportunity to start again with a new format and of course the new agreement with the Superyacht Brokerage & Charter Show. Overall this has brought more international clients to the Show, many of them serious boat buyers. We have sold our motor yacht Azimut 88 to a Portuguese client who travelled from Vilamoura, our Minorchino 42 to a British client who will berth her in Torrevieja, a Hanse 415 to another British client, an Azimut 55S to its new owner in Cascais and finally a Cobalt 242. Many enquiries also came for the Hanse 630 and 575.  Not bad given we were expecting a quiet Show.  The emphasis was on quality rather than quantity which was a blessing as it allowed our sales team to invest time in their clients and conduct sea trials without being under pressure.  Next year we will certainly return, with at least ten boats, and feel positive that we are with the best yachts and businesses that Palma has to offer.”

All-new WallyCento sailing yacht MAGIC CARPET3 makes her debut at Gaastra Palmavela regatta

May 07, 2013

Excellent performance marked the premiere of the all-new WallyCento sailing yacht Magic Carpet3. Just two weeks after her launch, Magic Carpet 3 yacht participated in Gaastra Palmavela regatta, running in Mallorca, from 1-5 May, out-matching all races in real time. She crossed the finish lines between five and 20 minutes ahead of the closest competitor.

WallyCento Yacht Magic Carpet3

WallyCento Yacht Magic Carpet3 competing in the Gaastra Palmavela regatta - Photo credit to Jesus Renedo

“I’m highly satisfied with the outcome of this groundbreaking project, that engaged myself and my team for over two years,“ enthusiastically says the Owner and helmsman Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones. “Magic Carpet3 is precisely what I wanted and expected her to be, totally fulfilling my goals and briefs. She is the natural evolution of my breed of yachts: very fast, beautiful, comfortable, technologically advanced, and easy to sail.”

WallyCento, the new generation of sailing cruisers
Developed by Reichel Pugh naval architects with the exterior styling and interiors by Wally, she fully exploits the WallyCento box-rule to create a fast seaworthy sound cruiser-racer that benefits from the latest performance technology, respecting the Wally spirit.

“Cruising in comfort at the speed of the fastest maxi racer and racing at the highest level of competition is the dream of every passionate yachtsman – says Luca Bassani Antivari, Wally Founder and CEO – WallyCento is the first and only super yacht making this dream come true, and Magic Carpet3 truly reflects this concept.”

“We are thankful to Sir Owen-Jones who actively contributed to the definition and development of the WallyCento box-rule – continues Bassani – and gave Wally the opportunity to produce such an innovative super yacht carrying the unmistakable Wally pedigree.”

Luxury yacht Magic Carpet 3 is a step forward in yachting evolution: she embodies the new generation of high performance sailing cruiser, setting new higher standards in naval architecture, systems, equipments, and construction technology.

“As a truly passionate yachtsman and lover of performance and technology, the starting point of the development of Magic Carpet3, that is my third Wally, was the brief to design the fastest cruiser-racer in the World, with no limitations or other requirements,” explains Sir Owen-Jones. “We selected Reichel Pugh because they have great experience of designing very high performance maxi racers. They successfully interpreted the WallyCento box-rule and produced along with Wally, an explosively fast boat on all points of sail and in all wind conditions.”

Luxury yacht Magic Carpet3 - view from above

Luxury yacht Magic Carpet3 - view from above - Photo credit to Jesus Renedo

Maxi-racer performance
Fully equipped with all the cruising amenities, her performance are closer to those of the fastest maxi racers (only -2% than Esimit) than to those of a traditional Wally 100-footer (10% faster on a windward-leeward course, and 25-30 % faster reaching).

Superyacht Magic Carpet3 is very fast in all conditions: in light air she behaves like a light yacht, in strong air she is so stable and powerful, to resemble an aircraft carrier! She shows incredible acceleration, and after a tack she is back to full speed after just 20 seconds.

During the sea trials in Saint Tropez, Magic Carpet3 yacht exceeded 21.5 knots of speed reaching in 20 knots of true wind speed. In the transfer to Palma de Mallorca, the Captain Danny Gallichan steadily sailed at 18 knots of speed with the small jib only (no mainsail), in 25 knots of true wind!

Sailing yacht Magic Carpet3 is the new “yacht to beat” in the Wally Class circuit as well as in other divisions of the Med regattas, and she will engage epic duels with Hamilton yacht, the first WallyCento that was launched in 2012 and showed the potential of this new type of yachts.

Ultra light displacement
The 100-foot cruiser, Magic Carpet3 yacht, is the epitome of Wally DNA, combining the latest and most advanced technology and design to produce a fast, easy and beautiful yacht. The quality of the construction of WallyEurope, using high/intermediate modulus carbon and female moulds CNC machined to limit the fairing, along with the extreme attention paid to each component and detail throughout all the construction, produced a breakthrough super yacht, very balanced and in perfect trim.

Characterised by the reduced displacement (only 50 tons), she is the lightest cruising yacht of this size ever built: compared to that of the previous 100-foot Wallys like charter yacht Y3K and luxury yacht Indio, the construction weight of Magic Carpet3 is 40 % lighter!

Superyacht Magic Carpet3 at full speed

Superyacht Magic Carpet3 at full speed - Photo credit to Jesus Renedo

Cruising in comfort
As well as being a racing thoroughbred, superyacht Magic Carpet3 is first and foremost a very comfortable cruising super yacht featuring the latest easy-sailing systems, big interior volumes and large open-air living areas.

On deck, the social cockpit seats up to ten guests for formal dining. Large flush areas forward and aft, are fitted with sunpads for relaxing and enjoying life onboard. The twin-helm station is aft the social cockpit, where all the manoeuvres are concentrated enhancing safety for children and guest not involved in sailing.

The self-tacking jib simplifies sail handling with reduced crew when cruising. The teak laid slim coachroof is camouflaged with the rest of the deck, and the two minimal coamings are mother-of-pearl painted.

The colour scheme is a continuation of the previous two Magic Carpets: navy and white, that have become the distinctive mark of this series of yacht.

Down below, the salon with dining and lounge areas plus navigation and office, separates the service area aft from the guest accommodation that includes two double guest cabins with en-suites and the forward owners’ stateroom with ensuite separate head and shower rooms.

The large forepeak serves as an additional crew cabin when cruising, and is converted into sail locker in racing mode. To enhance the cruising capability, the aft lazzarette is equipped with an additional fridge and it increases storage capacity.

The interior style is bright, simple and clean, with teak and maple joinery combined with lacquered white ceiling and sides, and carbon details. The interiors are also built using lightweight construction technology. The overall aesthetics is innovative, elegant and timeless.

Never ending (re)evolution
With Magic Carpet3 yacht, Wally once again is far ahead in yachting development. “What attracts me about Wally is the development of the latest technologies and the continuous R&D to simplify sailing and improve performance, as well the Italian design flair peculiar to Wally that makes these yachts aesthetically unique and very appealing both outside and inside. And we have indeed achieved this result with my new Magic Carpet3,” concludes Sir Owen-Jones.

Main technical specifications of luxury sailing yacht Magic Carpet3:

type WallyCento
year 2013

length o.a. 30.47 m 100’ 0”
beam 7.20 m 23’ 7”
draught 4.40 m 14’ 5” keel up/6.20 m 20’ 4” keel down

displacement 49.95 tons 110,231 lbs
sail area upwind 640 sqm 6,890 sqft
sail area downwind 1,420 sqm 15,285 sqft
sail plan sloop, self tacking &108% jib, square head mainsail
mast height from deck 46.00 m 150’ 11”

accommodation 6 guests + 2/4 crew
owner’s stateroom 1 double bed, en-suite separate shower room and separate head
guest cabin 2 beds, en-suite head and separate shower
guest cabin 2 beds, en-suite head and separate shower
crew cabin 2 pullman beds, en-suite head and shower
crew cabin 2 2 bunks in the forepeak
saloon seats and tables for 10 people, navigation station, office desk

concept & development Wally / Luca Bassani
design Wally / Luca Bassani
naval architecture Reichel Pugh Yacht Design
engineering Reichel Pugh Yacht Design
styling & interior design Wally / Luca Bassani
construction WallyEurope, Italy
classification Germanish Lloyd Structural Design

construction type advanced composites PRE-PREG high / intermediate modulus carbon
deck finish teak & titanium
interior joinery Nomex Core
paint Awlgrip
speed (engine) 11 knots

mast and boom Southern Spars, super/high modulus carbon fiber,
swept back spreaders, V boom
rigging Southern Spars EC6
deck hardware Harken – #10 winches, blocks and tracks/Cariboni jib furler/Magic Trims for main and jib sheets/powered running back stays/main traveller/light weight tensioning devices

sails North Sails
hydraulics Wally Grand Prix light weight package
sail controls Wally push button system
electrical system Wally Grand Prix light weight package

engine WM 350 Hp
propeller retractable

generators 15kW, 50 Hz, 230 V
watermaker Osmosea100 l / hour – 26 US gal / hour
anchor windlass Maxwell

navigation & comm B&G H3000 WTP3
auto pilot B&G
GPS Hemisphere

air conditioning Frigomar 45,000 BTU
refrigerator Waeco

fuel 1,500 l – 396 US gallon
fresh water 1,500 l – 396 US gallon

VHF Sailor
3G Netgear
Sitcom Salior Fleet Broadband

entertainment Apple system
TV Samsung

galley Techimpex gas burner with 3 burners and oven, carbon sink, crew mess

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