yachtstyle2020, Author at Yacht Style

Ewa Stachurska, Hainan, Sanya, Free Trade Port, Boating Sanya, China’s Hawaii, Visun Royal Yacht Club, Serenity Marina, Shimei Bay Marina, Clearwater Bay Marina, Hainan Rendez-Vous, The Ocean Race, Clipper Race, Sanlorenzo SX76, Boating Sanya & Sanya International Wine and Spirits Fair, Beneteau, Oceanis Yacht 54, Antares 11, China International Consumer Products Expo, Hainan Expo

Ewa Stachurska on Hainan’s new era

Leaders / yachtstyle2020

Ewa Stachurska on Hainan’s new era

August 10, 2023
2:20 am

Having emerged as the mainland’s leading yachting hub with professional marinas surrounded by international hotels and resorts, ‘China’s Hawaii’ is now enjoying a wave of government and overseas investment as a Free Trade Port, with zero tax on imported yachts.

The following Column by Ewa Stachurska of Simpson Marine appears in Issue 72 (click to read).

Lagoon 46, Hainan

Hainan Island has been long known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests and sparkling blue waters, which have made China’s southernmost province a haven for Chinese tourists seeking a tropical getaway. Over the past two decades, most of the world’s leading hospitality groups have opened five-star hotels and resorts on the island, especially in and around the southern city of Sanya.

Meanwhile, the likes of Visun Royal Yacht Club (2005), Serenity Marina (2012), Shimei Bay Marina (2013) and Clearwater Bay Marina (2014) helped put Sanya on the yachting map, along with luxury lifestyle shows like the Hainan Rendez-Vous and high-profile visits by global sailing events like The Ocean Race and Clipper Race.

After encouraging growth, yachting activity started to flatten several years ago, but Hainan is now enjoying a second wave as a hub for local and international yachting enthusiasts. The recent uplift formally started on June 1, 2020, when Hainan was declared a free trade zone, subsequently renamed Free Trade Port, with policies designed to encourage foreign investors to enter the market.

Hainan’s Free Trade Port is the biggest among China’s 21 free trade zones, having overtaken Shenzhen and Shanghai’s Pudong. A total of 184 related policies have been implemented since 2018 and helped boost all industries, with a focus on science and technology, medical, high-end education, travel and retail sectors.

Clearwater Bay Marina, Sanya

Having seen the potential of the yachting market, among many other industries, the government has quickly helped develop the infrastructure needed to support its growth in Hainan, while also developing other complementary industries such as hospitality and tourism.

It has built new marinas and yacht clubs, expanded the port facilities and, most importantly, introduced zero-tariff yacht registration for imported yachts (and other products). Prior to becoming a Free Trade Port, Hainan imposed taxes and levies upwards of 38 per cent on imported yachts

– and such heavy taxes still apply for yachts imported into China’s other provinces.

The yachting industry in Hainan has had a positive impact on the local economy, creating jobs and bringing in much-needed revenue. Yacht charter and yacht leasing have been encouraged, with Hainan now acting as an example and a gateway to the rest of the mainland, where there remains immense potential for boats and yachts of all types and sizes. The country’s GDP could overcome USA’s by 2035, according to recent forecasts.

And China has long-terms plans for Hainan. The Free Trade Port’s development is still in Stage One entitled ‘Free and Convenient Trade & Investment in the Island’, which comprises four phases. Following ‘research and design’ (2018-2020) and ‘verification of the system effectiveness’ (2020-2022), the new policies are currently in the ‘stress test’ phase (2023-2025), with ‘full implementation’ commencing from 2025.

Atlantis Sanya Resort

Stage Two accounts for the following decade, so by 2035, the Hainan Free Trade Port should be offering a free and convenient flow of trade, investment, cross-border capital, people and transportation, as well as secure and orderly data transfers. Stage Three is focused on Hainan becoming a high-level Free Trade Port with a strong global influence by 2050.

SIMPSON WELL POSITIONED

Word has quickly spread among the yachting community, with Hainan’s appeal as a destination for boating lovers growing. The policies have encouraged yacht sales and services companies to increase their presence and operations in Hainan and most notably Sanya, where Simpson Marine operates its flagship China office in Serenity Marina.

Having operated in China for the past 15 years, Simpson Marine was particularly proud to successfully register Hainan’s first yacht imported under the new Free Trade Port policies. The brand-new Lagoon 46 sailing catamaran was delivered to Sanya in early 2021 and was followed by other yachts including two Sanlorenzo SX76 motor yachts delivered later that year to Chinese owners.

Today, yachts registered in Hong Kong and Macau can enter Hainan for 180 days tax-free and cruise in designated areas.

Sanlorenzo SX76, Hainan

Another major step was the opening this April of Sanya’s first public marina, the Sanya International Yacht Center, which then hosted the five-day Boating Sanya & Sanya International Wine and Spirits Fair to showcase locally based yachts and promote boating. Simpson Marine showed the Lagoon 46 and staged Hainan debuts of Beneteau’s Oceanis Yacht 54 sailing yacht and Antares 11 motorboat.

At the same time, in Haikou, our team was hosting a lounge at the five-day China International Consumer Products Expo, also known as Hainan Expo and renowned as the country’s biggest luxury products fair.

These are just two examples of how China is bouncing back after Covid and how Hainan is again a hub for major events, yachting and otherwise.

A few years back, an average boat purchase in Hainan required a pricy membership in one of the prestigious yacht clubs and a heavy import duty on the boat, which made it even more prohibitive for even wealthy buyers to own a yacht on the island. Today, the situation is changing and we’re eager to witness the long awaited and much talked about ‘yachting boom’ finally happening in this pioneering province.

Simpson Marine team at Haikou Expo 2023

And as the yachting industry in Hainan continues to grow, the island is poised to become a major player in the global yachting market. The province now allows brokerage yachts up to five years old to come and stay in Hainan, having previously only allowed such yachts up to a year old.

The new Sanya International Yacht Center along with Shimei Bay, Serenity, Clearwater Bay and Visun can all host FTP-registered foreign yachts, while the latter three have the facilities to accommodate superyachts up to about 60-70m.

Having operated in mainland China through its political and economic ups and downs, Simpson Marine has always hoped to see the mainland market thrive and live up to its potential. Furthermore, the increased connectivity between Hainan and Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area over the long term is encouraging for businesses in these areas.

With increasing world-class facilities and services, and stunning natural beauty, Hainan is the best place in mainland China for local and overseas yacht owners and enthusiasts to enjoy the yachting experience. And Simpson Marine is there to help you each step of the way.

EWA STACHURSKA

Group Marketing Director of Simpson Marine, Ewa Stachurska has worked in the yachting industry since January 2007, specialising in marketing, strategic partnerships and business development. Having worked in Poland, France and China, she joined Simpson Marine in August 2015, working in Shanghai for a year before moving to the company’s headquarters in Hong Kong. Ewa oversees Simpson Marine’s corporate communication as well as marketing campaigns for Sanlorenzo, Bluegame, Fairline, Aquila, Beneteau and Lagoon. She is a Council Member (Charter Sector) of the Hong Kong Boating Industry Association and volunteers as a role model at the Inspiring Girls charitable organisation.

ewa.stachurska@simpsonmarine.com

www.simpsonmarine.com

Benetti sells first B.Now 60M

News / yachtstyle2020

Benetti sells first B.Now 60M

August 10, 2023
1:42 am

The Italian superyacht builder has announced the sale of the first B.Now 60M, which follows sales of the 50M, 67M and 72M models in the RWD-designed series.

Soon after securing the first sale of a B.Now 72M, Benetti has sold the first B.Now 60M in collaboration with brokerage company SuperYachts Monaco. The Italian builder is now starting work on FB286, which features the Oasis Deck® and is set to be delivered in 2027.

Sebastiano Fanizza, Benetti’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “This is an extremely satisfying period, as the 60M with Oasis Deck® steers our owners towards a new way to experience the sea and completes the B.Now family, which now vaunts models from 50-72m.

“I’d like to say a special thank you to SuperYachtsMonaco for the outstanding professionalism and expertise they’ve brought to the sale of this Benetti world-cruiser.”

Benetti said the owner has a “desire to spend long periods on board a Benetti world-cruiser, in an atmosphere that unites home comforts with the freedom to live without boundaries in an intimate relationship with the water”.

The B.Now 60M’s generous volumes include a main deck offering 202sqm of living space, of which 131sqm is devoted exclusively to the Oasis Deck® beach area, while the yacht is also distinguished by sleek lateral lines and a long plumb bow.

Like all B.Now models, the 60M features exterior styling by UK-based studio RWD, while the interiors are by Benetti’s Interior Style Department.

Andrew Collett, Team Principal of RWD, said: “We’re very proud to be part of a successful line together with Benetti. The 60M completes the series of sales across the entire range.”

The series kicked off with the B.Now 50M, which has become the most successful superyacht in its size sector, while the first B.Now 67M was sold late last year with Northrop & Johnson. This year, Benetti announced the first of the series-flagship 72M in June and more recently presented designs for the 40m B.Now Limited Edition.

www.benettiyachts.it

Ferretti Group announces “very strong” H1 results

News / yachtstyle2020

Ferretti Group announces “very strong” H1 results

August 8, 2023
3:00 am

The Italian conglomerate announces an order intake of €573.8 million, with its order backlog rising to €1.4 billion.

The Board of Directors of Ferretti Group have reviewed and approved the company’s H1 consolidated financial results, citing “a very strong performance”.

Highlights including an adjusted EBITDA of €83.4 million, representing an increase of 20.9 per cent when compared to the first half of 2022. A margin of 14.7 per cent represented an increase of 120 basis points when compared to the same period last year.

Order intake reached €573.8 million, while the order backlog rose to €1.4 billion, up 15.8 per cent on H1 2022. Revenue of €580.8 million and net profit of €40.9 million represented increases of 8.6 per cent and 36.8 per cent respectively on the first half of last year, with the Group boasting a net financial position of €320 million.

Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group, said: “We continue to grow year on year and semester on semester on the strength of a steadily increasing order book, indicative of a commercial success that never ceases to reward us. We are demonstrating great efficiency by continuing to improve our margins, while proceeding swiftly in the development of new models and new projects.

“During the season of the major Mediterranean boat shows, we will present our new models, which further extend the product range, the driver of our growth strategy aimed at the ever-increasing satisfaction of our owners and shareholders.”

Revenue was led by orders for composite yachts (44.7 per cent) followed by made-to-measure yachts (35.8 per cent), superyachts (11.2 per cent) and other businesses (9.5 per cent). Geographical demand was led by the EMEA region (43.1 per cent) followed by the AMAS region (24.7 per cent) and the APAC region (12.7 per cent), with 19.5 per cent represented by ‘Other and superyachts’.

Made-to-measure yachts made up 35.7 per cent of the order backlog followed by superyachts (31.4 per cent), composite yachts (28.9 per cent), and other businesses (4.0 per cent).

Activities in the first half of 2023 included an agreement with Rosetti Marino for the acquisition of the 70,000sqm-plus Cantiere San Vitale facility in Ravenna (click for article). In late June, Ferretti Group successfully completed the first-ever dual listing (click for article) between Euronext Milan (Italian stock exchange) and HKEX (Hong Kong stock exchange).

The Group also made a big step forward in respect of the project in the 220,000sqm-plus former Belleli Yard port area in Taranto, where an industrial facility will be developed for the construction of plugs and moulds, as well as a research centre for advanced materials. All the public administrations involved approved the remediation and industrial development project.

www.ferrettigroup.com

Sunreef announces three world premieres for Cannes

News / yachtstyle2020

Sunreef announces three world premieres for Cannes

August 3, 2023
3:46 pm

Sunreef’s five-strong line-up for this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival includes three global debuts and four Eco models, while Galeon, Sanlorenzo, Absolute, Fairline, Beneteau, Invictus and Capoforte also reveal their line-ups.

CGI of Sunreef 70 Eco

Following the debut of the 80 Eco (click for Review) at last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, Sunreef Yachts is staging the world premiere of the 70 Eco sailing yacht at this year’s edition from September 12-17. Sunreef’s dealers in Asia include Hong Seh Marine in Singapore and Lee Marine in Thailand.

An 80 Sunreef Power Eco

The 70 Eco will be among three Eco models in the sailing zone in Port Canto, along with an 80 Eco for a second year and a 60 Eco. Eco sailing yachts feature a revolutionary composite-integrated solar power system, with solar cells integrated into the hulls, superstructure, bimini and mast (if requested), and can also include a state-of-the-art hydrogeneration system to generate power while sailing.

A 70 Sunreef Power

In Vieux Port, dedicated to motor yachts, the Polish builder will host the global debuts of the 80 Power Eco (click for article) and the 70 Sunreef Power, which is the only model among the five from the Polish builder that’s not part of it fast-growing Eco range. The 70 Sunreef Power is part of a motor yacht range that also includes the 60, 80 and 100 Power models.

Galeon 560 Fly

Fellow Polish builder Galeon, whose dealers in Asia include Asiamarine, will display seven yachts in Vieux Port, comprising the 375 GTO, 405 HTS and five Fly models: 400, 440, 500, 560 and 680. The 440 Fly and 560 Fly had their world premieres at this year’s Miami International Boat Show in February.

CGI of Sanlorenzo SX100

Among Italian builders, Sanlorenzo is displaying 10 yachts in Vieux Port including the world premiere of the SX100 (click for article). Represented in Asia by Simpson Marine, the builder will also show the SX76 and SX88, SD90 and SD96, SL78, SL86, SL90A and SL106A, as well as the SP110. Sister brand Bluegame is debuting its BGM75 multihull (click for article) alongside the BG72, BG54, BG42 and BGX63 (former BGX60).

CGI of Absolute 52 Fly

Absolute, whose dealers including Absolute Marine in Hong Kong, has announced an impressive nine-model line-up headed by the world premiere of its 52 Fly, which will show alongside its fellow 56 Fly and 60 Fly, five Navetta models – 48, 52, 58, 64, 75 – and the 48 Coupè.

CGI of Capoforte SX200

Invictus will display the GT370, TT420 and TT460, while sister brand Capoforte is showing the SX200 collection, SQ240, CX240 and SX280i. Both brands are represented in Hong Kong by NextWave Yachting.

Fairline Phantom 65

British builder Fairline, whose dealers include Simpson Marine, will have five motor yachts on display, comprising its Phantom 65 sportbridge, Targa 50 Open, 45 GT and 45 Open cruiser models, plus the high-speed F//Line 33 day boat. Powercat leader Aquila, also represented by Simpson Marine, will stage the European debut of the 42 Yacht flybridge model and show a 36 Sport outboard cruiser.

CGI of Beneteau Antares 12

Among French builders in Vieux Port, Beneteau will stage the world premiere of the Antares 12 (click for article), Antares 11, Flyer 10, Gran Turismo 41 and 45, Swift Trawler 41 and 48, plus the flagship Grand Trawler 62.

CGI of Beneteau Oceanis 37.1

In Port Canto, Beneteau will display the world premiere of the Oceanis 37.1 (click for article), Oceanis 51.1, Oceanis Yacht 54 and 60, and First 44 and 53.Sister brand Lagoon will display five sailing catamarans in Port Canto: the Lagoon 42, 46, 51, 55, Sixty 5 and Seventy 7. Simpson Marine represents both Beneteau and Lagoon.

www.sunreef-yachts.com
www.sunreef-yachts-eco.com

www.cannesyachtingfestival.com

Dufour delivers again with new 37

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Dufour delivers again with new 37

August 3, 2023
3:29 pm

Sometimes big things come in small packages as shown by the voluminous Dufour 37, with the French builder’s popular new model securing multiple sales in Asia.
Words: Zuzana Prochazka
Photos: Dufour

The 37 is among Dufour’s newest models with the 41 and flagship 61

Historically, cruising sailboats have been evaluated on two basic aspects – comfort and performance. If the builder dials in just one of these, the new model will likely sell well, but when they nail both, the sales orders really fly. That seems to be the case with Dufour and its new 37, a small boat with a big attitude that serves up fast sailing as well as easy onboard living.

When counting the Dufour 41 that premieres at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, the La Rochelle shipyard now has nine models in a series spanning 32-61ft, with the Dufour 37 sliding in above the brand’s 32ft entry model.

ALL-NEW DESIGN

Weighing in at close to seven tonnes, the 37 replaces the previous 360 with a completely new hull that’s just 33ft long, although including the bow sprit gives an overall length of 35ft 4in. Rounding up LOA numbers isn’t a new strategy for Dufour, but there are features that make this compact design seem much larger than her specs suggest.

The 37 is available in Easy, Ocean or Performance editions

Offered with two or three cabins, the Dufour 37 is beamier than the previous 360 and carries that width nearly all the way to the transom, which drops down manually to form a small swim platform.

Fuller sections forward increase her buoyancy as well as her interior volume. For improved performance, the forefoot has been made deeper to reduce pounding into head seas. The fractional Z-Spar rig was moved aft a foot to increase the size of the fore triangle and the headsail, also to reduce hobby-horsing.

The foredeck can be fitted with a sunpad for a secluded lounging area

The rig is also taller than her predecessor’s, with a higher aspect ratio and an additional 20sqft of sail area. A self-tacking jib is standard, but you can opt for a 108% overlapping headsail and tracks. When the jib is combined with the optional downwind screecher on a furler, you have just about the perfect sail plan for any wind direction and sea state.

Twin wheels on angled pedestals open the cockpit and command a single spade rudder, as is standard for Umberto Felci designs. Below the waterline is a 6ft 3in L-shaped fin keel with a bulb. That’s relatively deep for a boat of this size and it helps her point well.

PERFORMANCE

In our sea trial, hull two performed well on flat water in 9-12 knots of true breeze. In nine knots of wind, we sailed 6.5 knots on a beam reach, then inched up to 35 degrees apparent wind angle (AWA) where we still held on to 6.2 knots of speed.

The cockpit’s foldout table offers a lovely place for alfresco dining

The self-tacking jib makes it almost too easy, even when sailing short-handed, while the top/down gennaker gave us a boost in speed that we carried up to 70 degrees AWA.

In light gusts we stayed fairly upright, as the boat leaned on her hard chine to a maximum of only 18 degrees of heel. The helm was light and responsive, and we had to take care not to over-tack and leave S-turns in our wake.

A plancha grill and sink are below the aft bench seat

We came away from the sea trial pleasantly surprised by this little speedster. She tracked well, made good progress even in a light breeze, and although quick and agile, she never felt out-of-control or tender and that helps build confidence in all who take her helm.

ONBOARD COMFORT

As mentioned, this is a yacht that nails both performance and comfort. The cockpit is massive for a boat in this class, with a generous folding table and good handholds. Dufour’s trademark Eno plancha grill and sink have been incorporated into the transom to mimic her bigger siblings. There’s even space in the bow for a fitted double sunpad.

The transom shown in barbecue mode

Below deck, the boat looks deceptively long and wide, and that makes a great first impression from the foot of the companionway. A compact L-shaped galley is to port and has a double sink, two-burner stove, microwave and top loading refrigerator. Integrated wine bottle storage, a Dufour signature, is below the cabin sole as usual.

There’s one bathroom, to starboard, although its size and configuration depend on whether two or three cabins are chosen.

Forward view of the galley, sofas, foldable table and master suite in the bow

Four people can gather for a meal around the enormous drop-leaf dining table and an inflatable cushion may be tucked in at the settee to form an additional double berth. Light wood finishes and fabrics make the interior seem bright and inviting rather than buried in the hull and cramped.

You can really see the increased volume in the forward master stateroom, where two can now sleep with their heads forward instead of having to U-turn in the bed before tucking in for the night. The three-cabin layout has two aft guest cabins with aft-facing double beds.

Port view of the saloon showing overhead storage and windows

With the two-cabin layout, the aft guest cabin to port has a large inward-facing bed, while there’s space for provisions, tools and luggage in the aft starboard corner, a room also accessible via the opening cockpit bench above. Another benefit of the two-cabin layout is that the head becomes larger and a small navigation desk is added to the aft end of the saloon’s starboard sofa.

OPTIONS & IMPRESSIONS

The Dufour 37 is available in three versions or ‘packs’. The basics in the Easy Pack are a good starting point, but you may want to step up to the Ocean version for a more traditional layout or Performance for racing, where you get extra equipment like additional winches for easier line handling and an adjustable backstay.

Aft view of the galley, companionway and guest cabins

Standard propulsion is provided by an 18hp engine, although on our test boat we enjoyed the extra power of the upgraded 30hp Volvo Penta diesel that pushed us along easily at 6.5 knots at 2,100 rpm.

We topped out at 7.8 knots and 3,100 rpm, but that last knot is hard-won and guzzles diesel without great payback. An optional Side-Power bow thruster is available and can help new boaters really stick the landing.

The transom can be lowered to form a small swim platform

The Dufour 37 delivers greater comfort, more usable space and better sailing performance than her predecessor. As far as ‘improvement over time’ is concerned, Dufour got it right.

www.dufour-yachts.com

Paradise on Earth: The Six Senses Laamu, Maldives

Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

Paradise on Earth: The Six Senses Laamu, Maldives

August 3, 2023
2:41 pm

From crystal-clear turquoise waters to warm sand underneath your feet with a delightful ocean breeze, here’s how The Six Senses Laamu tantalises each of the five senses.

As I stepped off the seaplane onto the wooden dock, my heart skipped a beat with excitement. I had arrived at the Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives, and from the very first moment, it felt like I had stepped into paradise on Earth. The gentle breeze carried the scent of salty sea air mixed with tropical flowers, and I knew this would be an experience like no other.

Sight:

The moment I laid eyes on the resort, I was mesmerized by its beauty. My overwater villa stood above crystal-clear turquoise waters, and from my private deck, I could see colourful fish swimming gracefully beneath me. The lush green palm trees swayed in harmony with the ocean breeze, and the sunsets painted the sky in a breathtaking canvas of warm hues each evening. The sight of the endless ocean meeting the horizon was both humbling and invigorating, reminding me of the vastness of the world and the wonders it held.

Sound:

As I walked along the sandy pathways, the soft crunch of sand beneath my feet welcomed me to this idyllic haven. The gentle lapping of waves against the stilts of the villa lulled me into a peaceful trance. Each night, the soothing melodies of the resident musicians playing traditional Maldivian music by the beachside bonfire created a magical atmosphere. And when I submerged myself into the underwater world during a snorkelling adventure, the sound of silence below the surface was enchanting—a symphony of tranquillity.

Taste:

The dining experiences here were nothing short of divine. The resort’s culinary team skilfully crafted dishes using the freshest seafood and organic produce. Each meal was a delightful journey of flavours that danced on my taste buds. From the tangy burst of ripe mangoes to the creamy richness of coconut-infused curries, every dish was a celebration of Maldivian cuisine. The resort’s signature “Island Breakfast,” served on a secluded sandbank, was a feast of tropical fruits, freshly baked pastries, and sparkling champagne—a breakfast fit for royalty.

Touch:

Every surface I touched at the resort felt like silk against my skin. The softness of the cotton bed linens, the plushness of the beach towels, and the smoothness of the polished wooden furniture all contributed to the luxurious experience. The silky ocean water caressed my body during leisurely swims, and the warm sand moulded to the contours of my feet as I strolled along the shoreline. Even the spa treatments were a sensorial delight, as the skilled therapists eased away tension with gentle touches and aromatic oils.

Smell:

The scents of the Maldives surrounded me at Six Senses. The fragrance of frangipani flowers adorned my villa, infusing the air with a sweet and floral perfume. At the spa, the aroma of essential oils like lavender and ylang-ylang relaxed my mind during massages and facials. The ocean breeze carried the faint scent of salt, a reminder of the vast seascape that embraced the resort. Each inhalation was a sensory journey, connecting me deeply with the natural wonders of this tropical paradise.

In the embrace of Laamu, my senses came alive, and I found myself attuned to the beauty and magic of the world around me. This resort in the Indian Ocean truly transcended any expectations I had of a dreamy vacation, and it became an experience etched in my heart forever. The place where sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell combined in perfect harmony to create an enchanting symphony of sensations—a paradise on earth I will never forget.

For more on the latest travel, click here.

Nautique Wakefest returns to Hong Kong

News / yachtstyle2020

Nautique Wakefest returns to Hong Kong

August 3, 2023
2:27 pm

An impressive 160 athletes competed in the first Nautique IWWF Asia Wakefest Hong Kong in Tai Po since 2019.

Over 160 athletes participated in this year’s Nautique IWWF Asia Wakefest Hong Kong, the first time the event has been held in the SAR since 2019. Attracting hundreds of spectators, the event in Tai Po Waterfront Park included wakeboard and wakesurf competitions, with men, women and youth categories.

Nautique, represented in Hong Kong by Asia Yachting, title sponsored the event following five years of sponsorship from 2015 through 2019. This year, Nautique supplied new Super Air Nautique GS22 and Super Air Nautique G23 wake boats for the competition.

Competition was intense between the local and international athletes. Winners included Hong Kong duo Dawnee Kanjanapas in Open Women Surf and Kaitlyn Gemma Wong in Junior Women Skim, Japan’s Haruki Komatsu in Men’s Open Wakeboard, Korean Jeon Seobeen in Men’s Junior Wakeboard and Chinese Taipei for Best Team.

“We would like to thank the Hong Kong Wake Ski Association (HKWSA), supporting staff, volunteers and all the participating athletes,” Asia Yachting stated. “See you all next year.”

www.asiayachting.net

Day boat builders eyeing Asia: Part 1

News / yachtstyle2020

Day boat builders eyeing Asia: Part 1

August 3, 2023
12:51 am

As the luxury day boat market continues to grow internationally, more shipyards across Europe are looking to increase their presence in key markets in this region.

Invictus GT280

With the likes of Sunseeker, Galeon, Fairline and Jeanneau creating new series of luxury day boats in recent years (Issue 70 cover story), long-time specialists in the sector are making the most of the growing popularity of their models by taking a closer look at the potential of markets in Asia.

Earlier this year, NextWave Yachting was appointed as the Hong Kong dealer for sister companies Invictus and Capoforte, whose Christian Grande-designed models are built at the Aschenez shipyard in the Borgia province of Calabria, the Italian mainland’s southernmost region.

Invictus builds two series, GT (28-37ft) and TT (28-46ft), while Capoforte produces 20-28ft models across the SX, CX, FX and HX lines. Invictus debuted the TT420 at Boot Dusseldorf in January and will debut a Vogue White edition at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival from September 12-17.

Capoforte CX240

Yacht lovers in Hong Kong have the chance for an up-close view of Grande’s designs and the brands’ work, with five models arriving in the city this summer through NextWave, which was also behind The Next Wave beach festival in Discovery Bay from July 29-30.

One Capoforte SX200, two CX240s and an Invictus GT280 arrived in July, followed by a second GT280 in August, as part of the initial collaboration between NextWave and the Italian brands.

Frankie Chau, Chairman and co-founder of NextWave, said: “We’ve long admired Christian Grande’s design work and his distinctive design DNA is evident in all Invictus and Capoforte boat models. All their boats feature stunningly stylish exteriors and luxurious interior details.

“As the models range from 20ft up to 46ft, they cater to various needs and clients within the luxury day boat sector. They’re also competitively priced compared to their competitors.”

Fjord 53 XL

NextWave is best-known as the Hong Kong dealer for Sunseeker, but has a history of representing luxury day boat builders including Fjord, one of the sector’s most iconic brands, and Vanquish.

Founded in Norway in 1960, Fjord developed into a pioneer of centre-console day boats following its 2005 acquisition by Germany’s Hanse Group, with the brand passing the 500-unit mark in 2019. Its models start from the 38 Open and Express versions up to the 53 XL, which had its world premiere at last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival.

Tom Steentjes founded Vanquish in 2012 and built its reputation on high-performance aluminium motor yachts, starting from the VQ45 and stretching into superyacht territory with the recent launch of the blue-hulled flagship VQ115 Veloce, while upcoming models include the VQ70.

Vanquish VQ52

The Dutch yard’s composite models include the VQ11 and VQ16 Sports Line tenders, VQ40 Sports Line and upcoming VQ55 Sports Line. However, the brand – whose biggest market is the US – is distinguished by its aluminium series, with hulls close to 40 per cent lighter than comparable composite alternatives.

“We believe Vanquish has the potential to become a sought-after brand among discerning boat owners in Hong Kong, as many are used as day boats or tenders by superyacht owners,” Chau said. “As well as the style, the unique aluminium structures set Vanquish apart from other mainstream day boats, offering considerable flexibility in design and construction.”

MARKET LEADERS

Pardo has quickly become the luxury day boat sector’s most popular brand, building close to 200 models a year, while its dealers include Motor Field in Thailand, which recently received a P50 and has a GT52 on the way.

Pardo 50

Sister brand VanDutch builds about 35-40 customised models a year, having established an ultra-exclusive status that attracts celebrity owners and luxury brand collaborations. Based on Italy’s east coast in Forli (also home of Ferretti Group’s headquarters), parent company Cantiere del Pardo was founded in 1973 and is best known for its Grand Soleil brand of sailing yachts.

The Italian builder moved into the luxury day boat sector with the Pardo 43 in 2017 and three years later acquired VanDutch, founded in the Netherlands in 2008 but based in Italy since the takeover. With business booming in recent years, Cantiere del Pardo has acquired a second factory in Forli and added two more in Fano, one dedicated to VanDutch.

Currently celebrating its 50th anniversary, Cantiere del Pardo recently renewed its partnership with Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli and became an official supplier for the Italian challenger for the 37th America’s Cup, which will be held in Barcelona from August-October 2024.

VanDutch 48 for Luna Rossa

A VanDutch 48 – already available to the Luna Rossa team at its Cagliari base – and Pardo’s upcoming Endurance 72 (E72) will accompany the syndicate as it seeks again to lift the trophy, having finished runner-up in 2000 and 2021. Due early next year, Pardo’s E72 will be used for VIP hospitality, making the most of a 290sqft flybridge and both IPS propulsion and an eco-speed system.

Last year, Pardo launched its GT52, the first yacht in a new GT line that will also include a GT75, while its other models comprise the E60 and the P38, P43 and P50 walkaround boats.

VanDutch models drawn by Dutch studio Mulder Design include the 32, 40, 48 and new 56, priced in the region of US$2 million and the brand’s first model with IPS drives and a T-top option. Meanwhile, the VD 75 is in production and set to debut at the 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival.

VanDutch 56

“A VanDutch profile can be done in six or seven lines, which makes it a very clean, simple and timeless design,” says Rok Babarovic, Cantiere Del Pardo’s Business Development Manager. “It will always be beautiful.”

A magnet for brand collaborations, VanDutch has worked with the likes of Louis Vuitton, Dior, Hublot, McLaren, Stella Artois, Heineken, Red Bull and even Lady Gaga! Many celebrities own or have chartered VanDutch yachts, with many Hollywood and sports stars, musicians, DJs and models associated with the brand.

Rather than a dealer network, the brand focuses on ‘VanDutch Centers’, currently located in Lake Garda (Italy), Saint-Tropez (France), Ibiza (Spain) and Miami (US).

Interestingly, Babarovic says owners are more likely to switch from VanDutch to Pardo once they wish to spend more time on the water, with Pardo’s more practical features taking precedence over the more visual, emotion-led decision-making that lures people to the VanDutch brand.

Pardo 43

“Owners may still want an open boat, but they might prefer walkaround layouts, more sun protection and easier handling because of the IPS drives, which is what Pardo models offer but still with a sleek, elegant, timeless design,” Babarovic says.

“Looking ahead, Cantiere del Pardo is looking to maintain our leadership in the luxury day boat segment, both in terms of market share and positioning. With Pardo and VanDutch, we’re very confident we’ll be able to.”

Pardo’s upcoming plans include appointing dealers in key hubs like Hong Kong and Singapore then the likes of mainland China, Korea and Japan.

“The yachting markets in Asia are not as open to open boats as they are to enclosed boats and brands that have been present there for decades, so we’re trying to carefully select dealers that understand that and can introduce the brands in the right way.”

www.invictusyacht.com

www.capoforteboats.com

www.nextwaveyachting.com

www.pardoyachts.com

www.vandutch.com

Eva Orsi “making dreams come true” at Tankoa

Leaders / yachtstyle2020

Eva Orsi “making dreams come true” at Tankoa

August 3, 2023
12:31 am

President of family-owned Tankoa since 2018, Orsi has overseen the recent growth of the Genoa shipyard, which built its reputation producing superyachts by Francesco Paszkowski, but is now building and promoting 45-80m designs by a wide range of Italian designers.
Interview: John Higginson

Eva Orsi, President, Tankoa Yachts

Can you outline the brief history of Tankoa and your family’s involvement, after your father Guido bought and sold Baglietto?

After a marvellous experience at Baglietto, my father and some of his colleagues and friends decided to buy and create a shipyard. It was named Tankoa, which means ‘scorpion’ in Genoese dialect. The first yacht already had an owner, who was a family friend, an amazing person who unfortunately passed away.

Then the economic crisis began, which made it hard for Tankoa to survive. At the time, my brother Guido (Jr) was President. He and Euro Contenti (CEO) and Edoardo Ratto (General Manager) believed in Tankoa’s future. My father believed in them and has always been a silent supporter. The team managed to sell the first three yachts and since then we’ve proven to be the shipyard we are today.

A 2023 delivery, Grey is the fifth S501 and will debut at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show

I began as President in 2018 and for me it was a dream come true after growing up with my father and his passion for the ocean and yachts. My brother had different plans and decided to change work, but now we’re finally together and our aim is to maintain Tankoa as a boutique Italian shipyard.

Can you recall some childhood highlights of yachting with your family and whether any of the designs of your family boats have influenced designs at Tankoa?

Since I was a kid, I had the privilege of spending my summers on board my father’s yachts in the Mediterranean. His yachts gradually grew in size, but the common features were clean, linear exterior design and the importance of the furniture.

The Tankoa shipyard is by the Cristoforo Colombo Airport outside Genoa

Tankoa has since grown with Francesco Paszkowski, who has designed many of our yachts. I think he has always kept this in mind, being able to transfer with his hand a timeless feeling and clean lines.

Can you tell us about the Tankoa shipyard beside Genoa Airport, which is only 1-2 hours’ drive from the likes of Milan, Monaco and Nice?

Tankoa is situated in a strategic position, for us, workers and clients, close to Cote d’Azur and the expert workforce in Tuscany and Liguria.

Facilities include two 90m sheds, a 250m-long dock and a submersible 4,000-tonne-capacity dry dock

Our shipyard has two 90m-long, 18m-high concrete sheds plus three smaller sheds for the assembly of the superstructure and the completion of construction. We call building the hull and superstructure ‘dirty work’, so we’ve always preferred this being done in an external facility in La Spezia.

How did Tankoa’s first yacht, the 69m Suerte that debuted at the 2015 Monaco Yacht Show (MYS), help establish the shipyard’s reputation in a crowded superyacht market?

Suerte was our first significant milestone. The small ‘yachting world’ had doubts we would complete our first yacht, but thanks to the passion and knowledge of all our team, we managed to overcome a rough start and prove that Tankoa wasn’t only an idea but a new competitor in the superyacht market.

Tankoa’s 72m Solo (above) was launched in 2018, three years after the 69m Suerte

The owner decided to make it a commercial yacht. Luckily, or let’s say unfortunately, a client who chartered it for several months in the summer of 2016 liked it so much that they decided to buy Suerte and keep it in their private harbour.

How did the 72m Solo, which debuted at MYS in 2018, differ from Suerte and further develop Tankoa’s profile in the market?

Solo was our third delivery and remains a great source of pride for our shipyard due to its avant-garde technology, which led to it winning several awards and prizes including one delivered directly by Prince Albert of Monaco. It was further proof that Tankoa was able to build great superyachts. Not only did people recognise the build quality but the design was outstanding.

Francesco Paszkowski designed Suerte, Solo, the S501 series and the upcoming T580

How important is the Francesco Paszkowski-designed, all-aluminium S501 series to Tankoa?

In 2017, we launched Vertigo and two years later we delivered Bintador, our first hybrid propulsion yacht. After that, we launched Olokun in 2020, last year we delivered Kinda, our second hybrid yacht, and this year we handed over Grey. The S501 series has consolidated Tankoa’s presence in the market.

The five yachts to date all have similar exterior designs, but have different colours, while all the internal features and design have been customised to meet the tastes and needs of the clients. The sixth sister is under construction and incorporates several small upgrades, as we always want to deliver yachts with the best-possible features.

The black-hulled Olokun is the third S501

What can you tell us about other upcoming models?

Our real strength is having Italian designers representing Tankoa’s yachts. As well as the S501 series and the upcoming T580 (58m) by Francesco, I can’t wait to deliver the first T450 (45m) by Giorgio Cassetta and the first T55 Sportiva (55m) by Luca Dini. The 52m Vitruvius is a project a client brought to us, and I’m honoured we’re now producing it.

We also hope to realise designs including Alberto Mancini’s T760 Apache (76m), Hot Lab’s T500 Tethys (50m) and Enrico Gobbi’s T680 Fenice (68m). Every single yacht we design and produce has characteristics we’re proud of. I can’t wait to have a wide range of Tankoa boats navigating the world. (For recent sales news, click here.)

Two T450s by Giorgio Cassetta are in build

How closely do you work with your father and your brother, now Tankoa’s Marketing & Communications Manager?

What I like about Tankoa is that we consider it a family shipyard, not only because our father is a silent shareholder with a passion for yachts but also because my brother Guido and I work together and support each other.

Two units of the T55 Sportiva by Luca Dini are in build

Having different roles doesn’t change the way we feel about Tankoa. However, it’s not only because we’re siblings that there’s a connection; the whole atmosphere inside the offices has a family feeling. There’s a great respect and esteem for every single employee.

How has Vincenzo Poerio helped Tankoa since he was appointed joint-CEO (with Euro Contenti) in February 2020?

Since Vincenzo joined our family, not only have we had an internal change and growth but the market has perceived a difference. To me, he is a master, and we can all learn something from him. Over the last three years, he helped Tankoa grow faster than ever before. We’ve nearly doubled our workforce and tripled our yacht production.

Vincenzo Poerio, CEO, Tankoa

This was our objective, although not to grow too much that we lose the direct contact and relationship we have with our clients. What I most like about Vincenzo is that he truly believes in the next generation, giving younger employees the space and education that they need to be able to grow and evolve in their career. He’s able to transfer his passion to whoever he meets and works with.

What else should readers know about Tankoa?

I’d like to emphasise that Tankoa is a boutique shipyard with strong Italian roots. Producing custom yachts is our way of making our clients’ dreams come true, so our main priority is to maintain high quality with a competitive price.

Alberto Mancini’s 76m Apache design

We believe in future generations, which is why our approach is always more sustainable, both in our facility and on our yachts to safeguard the earth and protect the ocean so we can continue to navigate and explore our seas.

http://www.tankoa.it

EVA ORSI

President of Tankoa since September 2018, Eva succeeded her brother Guido Jr at the helm of the Genoa-based shipyard, which was founded in 2007 by her father, industrialist Guido Orsi, who formerly owned Baglietto. After studying Economics of Art, Culture and Communication at Bocconi University in Milan, Eva earned a master’s degree from IULM University in Milan, specialising in the promotion of Made in Italy. After stints with fashion brands Loro Piana and Ralph Lauren in 2007, she worked in the design and art sectors for a decade before joining the family business.

Ferretti Yachts Infynito 90 set for China

News / yachtstyle2020

Ferretti Yachts Infynito 90 set for China

August 3, 2023
12:20 am

Asia’s first Ferretti Yachts’ Infynito 90 will head to Shenzhen following a sale earlier this year.

The first Ferretti Yachts Infynito 90 in Asia is expected to arrive in Shenzhen later this year. Ferretti Group announced the new range of Infynito models in the third quarter of 2022 before sharing designs of the 90 at the start of this year.

The sale of the Infynito 90 in Shenzhen followed the Ferretti Group Privilege Day and Ferretti Yachts 1000 China Premiere (click for article). Held at Shenzhen Bay Marina Club and the Sea World Culture & Arts Center in May, the high-profile event featured yacht owners, VIPs and Ferretti Group management visiting from Italy and Hong Kong.

The Infynito series is being built alongside Ferretti Yachts’ class range of Flybridge models, which range from the 500 to flagship 1000. Like the new Flybridge models, the Infynito 90 (click for article) features exterior design by Filippo Salvetti and interiors by IdeaeItalia, and was designed with Ferretti Group’s Strategic Product Committee, chaired by Piero Ferrari, and its Engineering Department.

Notable features include a covered foredeck with jacuzzi, an enclosed skylounge and extensive use of eco-friendly materials. Engine options are a pair of 1,550hp or 1,800hp MAN V12s, the latter driving the yacht to a top speed of 22 knots and a cruising speed of 17 knots, based on preliminary data. With a new high-efficiency hull and 11,500 litres of fuel, the yacht has a range of 1,200nm at 12 knots.

www.ferretti-yachts.com

www.ferrettigroupasiapacific.com

Pearl celebrates 25th anniversary

News / yachtstyle2020

Pearl celebrates 25th anniversary

August 2, 2023
11:42 pm

The UK-owned motor yacht builder celebrated its silver jubilee with a rendezvous event in Spain.

Pearl Yachts, whose dealers in Asia include VP Yachts in Hong Kong, celebrated its 25^th anniversary with dealer Mallorca Marine Group by staging a red-carpet rendezvous in the exclusive Puerto Portals marina in Mallorca.

VIP guests mingled between the designer boutiques and gourmet restaurants during the three-day event, which was held in a festive atmosphere and boosted by the presence of Pearl 62, 72 and flagship 95 yachts. Guests were also briefed on the upcoming Pearl 82, which is due to launch in 2024.

The festivities were headed by Managing Director Iain Smallridge (click for Leader interview), who co-founded the boutique yacht builder in 1998, and Margaret Whittaker OBE, who has owned the brand since 2003 (with her late husband Tony, who passed away in 2021).

Whitaker said: “To see our efforts manifest over 2½ decades has put the whole Pearl family in the mood to celebrate. I couldn’t be prouder of the team, not just for where we stand today but also when I think back over the years.

“We faced challenges, defied the odds and carved out a new enclave in the yachting sector, which I can confidently compare to any brand on the market today. There’s no feeling like the creeping sense that what we’ve built is here to stay, that this dream isn’t going to end – and it’s because we dreamed it together.”

Pearl’s success in carving out a niche in the incredibly competitive 50-100ft flybridge motor yacht sector is also due to Bill Dixon, who has worked on naval architecture and exterior design since the Whittakers took over in 2003. Over the past decade, celebrity designer Kelly Hoppen CBE has handled the brand’s interiors, working exclusively with Pearl in the production motor yacht sector.

Smallridge said: “Pearl’s 25^th anniversary has come along at an important time in our history. There’s so much movement, and we keep taking risks, seeing results. The latest generation of Pearls is having such an impact because of the path we’ve taken to this point, and this event was the perfect opportunity to get together and show our appreciation, remember the past, and talk about the future.”

www.pearlyachts.com

www.vpyachtsltd.com

Cannes show introducing new exhibition area

News / yachtstyle2020

Cannes show introducing new exhibition area

August 2, 2023
11:04 pm

This year’s Cannes Yachting Festival will include an in-water display for about 50 boats from 8-12m in the main Vieux Port exhibition area.

Vieux Port

Cannes Yachting Festival organisers are expecting more than 650 boats, ranging from 5-55m, at this year’s edition, which will be held over six days from September 12-17. A major new feature of the 2023 event is the creation of an in-water area in the main Vieux Port exhibition area to accommodate smaller boats from 8m upwards, in response to exhibitor demand.

Sylvie Ernoult, Director of the Cannes Yachting Festival, said: “Thanks to the renewed confidence of our exhibitors, this 2023 edition is looking very good, with similar forecasts to the previous year, which had about 600 exhibitors, more than 650 boats and 140 premieres.

Vieux Port

“This new edition will highlight small units with the creation of a new area, a marina in the heart of Vieux Port, which will accommodate more than 50 motor boats from 8-12m. As the show’s DNA is to offer the most eclectic display possible, it seemed natural to us to move the smaller boats that have traditionally been displayed ashore on the Quai Max Laubeuf in a dedicated floating area.

“Once again this year, our visitors will enjoy discovering some real gems in-water and on land, boats of all sizes and types, equipped with ‘traditional’ or ‘carbon-free’ engines, with electric, hybrid or hydrogen power systems. As is the case every year, all our teams are mobilised daily to offer a memorable experience to our exhibitors and visitors.”

Port Canto

The largest yachts confirmed early for this year’s exhibition include Isa’s Granturismo 45, Benetti’s Diamond 44 and Oasis 40M, a Custom Line 140’ from Ferretti Group, Oceanic 143 by Canados and a Baglietto Dom 133. The show retains its format of showing motor yachts in Vieux Port, while Port Canto hosts sailing monohulls and multihulls, brokerage superyachts and water toys.

Many of the world’s leading yacht builders have already announced their line-ups for the Cannes Yachting Festival, while others are expected to confirm in the coming weeks. To find out existing announcements, search for ‘Cannes’ in the search bar on YachtStyle.co (click).

www.cannesyachtingfestival.com

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