yachtstyle2020, Author at Yacht Style

Majesty 100 Terrace: stately successor

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Majesty 100 Terrace: stately successor

April 16, 2025
5:47 pm

Gulf Craft’s new Majesty 100 Terrace – Yacht Style Awards 2025 winner for Best Superyacht 30-40m – enhances space and sophistication in a striking redesign of the line’s previous model.
Words: Andrew Dembina; Photos: Gulf Craft

The Majesty 100 Terrace debuted at this year’s Dubai International Boat Show

It may well have been hazy as the first hull of the Majesty 100 Terrace pulled out of Dubai Harbour the morning after this year’s Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) had closed, but the quiet, stable acceleration gently lured attention to the elegant detailing on board. The six-cabin yacht was one of eight global premieres in Gulf Craft’s 18-vessel display at DIBS and attracted constant viewing interest over the five days.

At 32.25m (105ft 8in) in length, the Majesty 100 Terrace’s thoughtful design and a pale, natural palette by Netherlands-based studio Phathom across decks and interiors carefully maintains a sense of spaciousness and continual view of the horizon through large picture windows, as walking from the open C-shaped sofa at the cockpit’s aft, through the open glass doors of the saloon proves.

The main saloon has a drop-down ceiling TV

There, the indoor lounge area provided another ample gathering spot and would allow some of us on board the occasional glimpse, through shrouds of mist, of city landmarks, such as the full sail-like Jumeirah Burj Al Arab Hotel and the two world record-holders for tallness: the Ain Dubai observation wheel, and the Burj Al Kalifah.

If the mist thickens further or the urge strikes, there is also a drop-down TV concealed in ceiling panels that can be called to action at the press of a button.

Aft view of the dining area and saloon

Very open, the main-deck saloon lounge segues into the dining area, featuring a 10-person marble-topped table. To port is access to a generously proportioned, professional, kitchen-grade, stainless-steel galley.

On the starboard side, opposite the day head, is a glass-encased stairwell that connects with both the upper deck and lower-deck cabins, featuring an elegantly curving, pale oak-wood staircase.

The owner’s stateroom forward on the main deck

A few steps further forward is the entrance to the full-beam owner’s stateroom. This en-suite cabin has a forward-facing, king-size bed with a headboard that extends to the end of a fitted two-person sofa that can be used as a daybed for one person.

Both face a wide window opposite the foot of the bed that, when curtains are opened, let daylight stream into the stateroom and allows a view of the covered bow terrace – the feature after which the Majesty 100 Terrace model is named. Recessed lighting in this cabin – as throughout the interiors on board – adds warmth to the decor.

The covered bow terrace has inset skylights and lighting in its ceiling

The bow terrace is fully covered by the sundeck above, and this ceiling is inset with glazed panels that act as skylights. The terrace sides are fully open to the elements, and it has sofa seating, a table and freestanding chairs. Access between it and the sundeck is possible via a staircase as well through the owner stateroom’s private doorway.

Ease of access is a recurrent theme on board, between one deck to another and between indoor and outdoor spaces. Entertainment areas have been maximised through rigorous R&D and design, resulting in what Gulf Craft says is a 20 per cent increase compared to the Majesty 100, which the new Terrace version replaces.

The sundeck’s aft dining area is covered by a hard top with slats

Drop-down cockpit bulwarks, a sunlounger area between transom and swim platform, and an enlarged upper-deck sundeck area account for a percentage of this. Notably wide side decks on the main and upper levels add to the feeling of luxury.

As in Asia, expansive social and entertainment spaces are often sought after by owners in the Middle East region. The sundeck’s freestanding dining suite comfortably seats eight – under a hard top with inset skylight glazing – and it can be stored to allow full use of the marine teak-floored area for events. To port is a wet bar.

The fore sundeck Jacuzzi, lounger, sofa seating and tables

Additionally, the skylounge is a mostly large open area, so offers an indoor haven in hot or inclement weather conditions.

At the fore of the upper deck are two tables with C-shaped sofa seating, and a Jacuzzi and sunbed zone. Also up top is the spacious wheelhouse, with a control console featuring three large monitors.

The skylounge looks out aft to the covered dining area

The lower deck double and twin cabins are generously proportioned and have Zen-like monochrome en-suites with good-sized shower stalls.

As with all Gulf Craft yachts, the hull is made of FRP (fibreglass), enabling lower vessel weight and allowing higher speed when underway. The semi-displacement hull was designed by Andrew Wolstenholme of UK-based Wolstenholme Yacht Design and brings less drag, equating to more fuel efficiency, more power when cruising, and faster reactions to changes in acceleration.

The wheelhouse on the upper deck includes three large screens

With the twin MTU 12V2000M96L engines installed, a top speed of 20 knots and a cruising speed of about 14 knots is possible, and a range of 1,050 nautical miles can be achieved at a cruising speed of 12 knots. Two other engine options are available.

For the 100ft motoryacht segment, with its open-plan ease of passenger flow, light earthy palette, look and feel of pared-down luxury and attractive performance offered, the Majesty 100 Terrace

appears to be a serious new contender.

majesty.gulfcraftinc.com

Sunreef Yachts introduces Solar Skin 3.0

Leave a Comment / News / yachtstyle2020

Sunreef Yachts introduces Solar Skin 3.0

April 16, 2025
11:36 am

The luxury catamaran builder has revealed an upgraded version of its pioneering ‘solar skin’ that can be integrated into curved surfaces.

Sunreef Yachts has announced the development of its Solar Skin 3.0, a “smarter, stronger, more efficient” version of the Solar Skin 2.0 that has been integrated into the hull sides, superstructures, hard tops and even masts of its Eco yachts.

Sunreef’s patented ‘solar skin’ is a key component of the Eco series’ green tech, and had its public debut at the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival during the world premiere of the first Sunreef 80 Eco, commissioned by shipyard founder Francis Lapp.

The shipyard’s patented solar skin has also been well received in Asia. After the 60 Sunreef Power Eco won the ‘Power Catamarans Above 15m’ at this year’s Yacht Style Awards in Singapore, the Sunreef 60 Eco sailing catamaran had its regional debut at the third Singapore Yachting Festival.

The Eco series of yachts are based on Sunreef’s existing sailing and power models, and include the shipyard’s own 1mm-thick ‘solar skin’ system, ultra-light lithium batteries, ultra-efficient air-conditioning and hydrogeneration.

Solar Skin 2.0 has been recognised for its industry-leading performance, offering 24.8 per cent efficiency and exceptional thermal stability, capable of operating at temperatures above 100°C and compatible with dark paint finishes, according to Sunreef.

It also features impressive resistance to micro cracking, having been durability-tested over 20,000 load cycles. The flexible skin incorporates RFID chips in each panel for seamless diagnostics and maintenance.

The new Solar Skin 3.0 elevates this innovation even further by introducing intelligent yield optimisation, using advanced algorithms to adjust electrical output in real-time, especially in areas affected by complex shading from sails or rigging.

The layout of the solar system has been designed using machine-learning algorithms to optimise panel placement, ensuring maximum energy efficiency tailored to real-world usage.

Additionally, the bimini areas of the new catamarans are now equipped with next-generation photovoltaic cells specifically optimised for shaded environments, further enhancing energy generation even under less-than-ideal lighting conditions.

“Sunreef Yachts continues to lead the way in luxury and sustainability with the introduction of Solar Skin 3.0. As part of a broader design evolution across its new catamaran lineup, this cutting-edge solar system marks a bold step toward smarter, more sustainable yachting,” Sunreef stated.

“The launch of Solar Skin 3.0 builds on Sunreef’s legacy, delivering a refined and highly efficient solution that significantly reduces the carbon footprint of each vessel. This is more than just an upgrade – it’s a visionary leap toward the future of yachting.”

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

Adventure Boats 2025: Part 2

News / yachtstyle2020

Adventure Boats 2025: Part 2

April 13, 2025
12:11 pm

Yacht Style concludes its two-part feature on adventure boats by looking at other Finnish brands, historic Nordic shipyards and international builders targeting the growing market, including two revealed this year.

FINNISH BRANDS

Saxdor’s 340 GTWA is the Finnish brand’s first wheelhouse walkaround

Saxdor – represented by DCH Marine across Asia-Pacific – continues to emerge as Axopar’s most visible competitor, announcing over €100 million of turnover in 2024 and predicting €160 million for 2025, with almost all the year’s production already sold.

Created by Finnish designer Sakari Mattila – who earlier founded or co-founded Aquador, Paragon, XO Boats and Axopar – the company is the definitive ‘Covid brand’, having launched its Saxdor 200 in March 2020 as Finland followed many others by going into lockdown.

Headquartered in Helsinki, the brand has been a success from the start and continued to expand both its range of models and its production facilities in Elk, about 45km west of Augustow in northeast Poland, while also adding a 4,000sqm facility in Larsmo on Finland’s west coast. It has over 600 employees and produces over 500 boats a year.

Saxdor includes drop-down sides on the 320, 340, 400 (above) and 460 boat lines

After the Saxdor 200, it has added the 320, 270 and 400 lines, with the 320 and 400 available in open (GTO) or enclosed (GTC) versions, and both featuring drop-down sides. Last year, it also debuted the 340 GTWA – Saxdor’s first wheelhouse walkaround – and there’s much anticipation surrounding its upcoming flagship 460 GTC, with even larger models already in the plans.

Saxdor recently became the first boatbuilder outside the US to use the Fathom e-power system, an integrated lithium-ion auxiliary power-management solution that includes a generator function in the Mercury outboard engines. The Finnish builder has debuted the technology on its flagship 400 GTC, which was among six Saxdor models on display at Boot.

It’s also developing Saxdor AI, a digital experience allowing customers to explore the brand and its products through personalised, interactive conversations, as well as create and customise a boat, with a virtual showroom offering a photorealistic experience. After purchase, the AI can even assist with delivery, onboarding and ways to enjoy the boat.

Finland’s XO Boats recently debuted its flagship EXPLR 44 in two versions, both with 1,200hp of power

Mattila’s first two brands, Aquador (1994) and Paragon (2003), were sold to Nimbus Group in 2000 and 2007 respectively. In 2006, he teamed up with Erkki Talvela to create XO Boats, which is headquartered in Helsinki and produces hardy aluminium boats in Finland (Ähtäri) and Poland (Suwalki and Augustow).

At Boot Dusseldorf this year, XO debuted its flagship EXPLR 44 in two versions: in grey with two 600hp Mercury outboards and in metallic champagne with three 400hp versions.

Measuring 13.4m in length without engines, the 44-footer is a huge leap in size from its other models which include the EXPLR 9 and 10 Sport – enclosed models with vertical windscreens – as well as the DFNDR A8, 8 and 9, and DSCVR 9 Open and 9 T-Top.

The enclosed Cabin Tourer version of the Quarken 35

Quarken, a newer Finnish brand, was founded in December 2021 by designer Osmo Roukala, Jussi Hurskainen and CEO Antero Sundberg. It’s notable for using Yamaha engines and producing its boats in Finland, between the west-coast city of Kokkola – where it has its headquarters – and Savonlinna in the southeast.

Quarken produces two lines of boats, with the 35 available in Cabin Tourer, Sport Tourer and Grand Tourer versions, and the 27 in Cabin, T-Top and Open editions.

Other Finnish brands include Finnmaster, which was founded in 1990 by Niilo Seliö – father of two-time F1 powerboat star Sami Seliö – and whose Pilot series of enclosed cabin boats fits the ‘adventure boat’ genre.

ORIGINS NEARLY 60 YEARS AGO

Sargo could be viewed as one of the spiritual fathers of the adventure boat sector, having been founded in 1967 by Edy Sarin and now headed by his sons. Built in Kokkola, its models are as tough as they look, with the company also building for police and rescue authorities. For private owners, the family-owned shipyard produces the Sargo 28, 31, 33, 36 and 45, all available in Explorer editions.

Founded in 1968, Sweden’s Nimbus debuted its flagship 495 Flybridge in 2024

Nimbus, started in Sweden in 1968, is another historic Nordic boatbuilder and has a strong presence in Asia, through Asiamarine. Traditionally a builder of premium day boats, the brand was focused on inboard coupe models until responding to the recent popularity of outboard models by creating a new series that could be categorised as adventure boats.

Today, the brand’s most popular series are the Tender (open), Weekender (semi-enclosed) and Commuter (enclosed), which all share common platforms starting with the 8, 9 and 11, the latter featuring an overall length of almost 41ft. However, the biggest Nimbus is now the 495 Flybridge, which is part of its Coupe Cruisers line and debuted at last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival.

As well as the Aquador and Paragon brands founded by Mattila, the publicly-listed Nimbus Group includes Alukin, EdgeWater and Falcon, having sold the Bella and Flipper brands in January.

The semi-enclosed W11 weekender by Nimbus

Windy is another historic Nordic brand, founded in Norway in 1966. The company has a head office and a production facility for its bigger boats in Västervik on Sweden’s east coast, while all sub-40ft models are built in Poland (Ostroda and Slupsk).

Windy boats don’t typically fit the adventure boats mould, but the brand looks set to enter the sector with the SR40, set to premiere in Spain at this year’s Palma International Boat Show (April 30-May 3).

Featuring an exterior by superyacht designer Espen Øino and an interior by Design Unlimited, the SR40 has the option of inboard or outboard engines, and features dropdown sides, an aft sunpad that folds up to reveal storage for water toys, and a roof rack for kayaks, surfboards and paddleboards.

France’s Beneteau Group and the US-owned Brunswick Group, two of the world’s largest boatbuilding conglomerates, are among non-Nordic companies to enter the sector in recent years. Wellcraft, owned by the Beneteau Group since 2014, has been producing boats since 1955 and is best known for offshore fishing boats.

Wellcraft’s flagship 44 Explorer can be powered by three 350hp Mercury V10s

However, the American brand entered the adventure boat sector with the enclosed 38 Explorer in 2022 and 44 Explorer in 2023, followed last year by a 38 T Top. All three models feature concept and styling by Italian Camillo Garroni and naval architecture by American Michael Peters.

Brunswick Group moved into the adventure boat market with Navan, a brand that debuted its enclosed C30 and S30 with hard top at the 2023 Cannes Yachting Festival, built on the same twin-step hull and offered with single or twin Mercury Verado outboard engines.

Arksen, founded in the UK by Jasper Smith in 2017, produces its Arksen 28 and 30 models from its Adventure series in Poland and southern England, and has also added the Arksen 8, an 8m RIB from its new Discovery series.

NEWCOMERS

Highfield – whose Asia dealers include Simpson Marine – is one of the world’s leading aluminium RIB manufacturers, but has switched to GRP for its entry into the adventure boat sector. At Boot, Highfield attracted an Axopar-like crowd for the world premiere of the ADV 7 or Adventure Seven, a 7m RIB that was also unveiled indoors for its US debut at the Miami International Boat Show in February.

Highfield’s Julien Carussi, Steve Harrison and Mathilde Delfour at the ADV 7 premiere at Boot 2025

“This is the ideal moment for Highfield to introduce a bold new product,” said Julien Carussi, CEO of Highfield, which the Frenchman co-founded in China’s Shandong province in 2011. “The launch of the ADV 7 marks a significant milestone in Highfield’s ambitious growth journey. I’m thrilled with this first model in the ADV range, and I look forward to what is coming next.”

To date, Highfield has produced well over 56,000 RIBs in its 26,000sqm factory in the coastal city of Weihai. Its RIBs series comprise Sport – over a dozen models up to 30ft – and the commercial-quality Patrol line, while its portfolio includes a selection of Jet models, plus three Tender ranges (Roll Up, Ultralite, Classic) of small models ranging from 6-15ft.

For the ADV 7, Highfield worked for the first time with VOM Creations (exterior), Alpha Creations (engineering) and Justin Yacht Design (naval architecture), three Slovenian studios that have worked extensively with Saxdor.

Highfield has entered the adventure boat sector with the fibreglass ADV 7, with bigger models to come

The ADV 7’s deep-V fibreglass hull has a 22-degree transom deadrise and is powered by a 250hp outboard, while the design is also distinguished from other Highfield boats by a much thinner tube, which sits high off the water and acts more like a wraparound fender and spray deflector.

The 23-footer, with an almost 9ft beam offering 6ft 7in of internal width, seats up to eight people in twin helm seats below a T-top, an aft C-shaped sofa and seating in the bow, while a WC can be included forward of the windscreen. Highfield has stated that this is just the beginning of its journey into the adventure sector, with bigger ADV models already in the pipeline.

Just as notable at Boot was the global debut of Aiata, a new brand backed by an initial €15 million investment from Turkey’s enormous Anadolu Group. For its first models, Aiata has teamed up with Jarkko Jämsén, the Monaco-based Finnish designer who has worked with leading brands including Axopar and Swan.

Aiata staged its brand debut at Boot by showing three versions of its Wayfinder 38

At Boot, Aiata showcased its Wayfinder 38 walkaround in three versions – cabin, sun top (open) and fishing – to illustrate its emphasis on modularity, with the company stating that it has secured global patents for some of its design features.

Yutkun Tok, General Manager at Anadolu Motor, said: “With the Wayfinder 38, an open-deck boat can be converted into a closed-deck model and vice versa, even years later. Such flexibility is

unprecedented in this category.”

Aiata – Ay Ata translates as ‘Moon Father’ and is the name of a moon god in Turkish mythology – stated that it plans to build almost 40 units this year at its 20,000sqm factory in Cayirova, east of Istanbul, and scale up in the coming years. It’s also developing the Wayfinder 48 with Jämsén and his team at Navia Design, with plans to unveil the model at Boot Düsseldorf 2026.

Aiata’s Wayfinder 38 by Finnish designer Jarkko Jämsén is available in enclosed, open and fishing versions

“The enthusiastic feedback at Boot Düsseldorf this year reinforced our confidence in the Wayfinder 38’s potential to reshape expectations in this category,” Tok said. “Our modular approach and commitment to quality craftsmanship have resonated strongly with visitors, and this is just the beginning.”

highfieldboats.com

aiataboats.com

Singapore Yachting Festival 2025 launches

News / yachtstyle2020

Singapore Yachting Festival 2025 launches

April 11, 2025
3:02 pm

The afternoon after the Yacht Style Awards and the wrap-up of the Southeast Asia Yachting Conference, ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove hosted the third edition of the Singapore show.

Organisers expect about 13,500 people to attend the 2025 edition of the Singapore Yachting Festival, with more than 70 yachts on display at the spacious ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, set in lush surrounds in verdant Sentosa Island.

Arthur Tay, Chairman of SUTL and ONE°15 Marina, Singapore (pictured above), along with other organisers behind the annual event, officially launched the show at 3pm on Thursday, April 10, a sunny afternoon, despite forecasted rain.

As well as several notable Asia-Pacific yacht premieres. Some important visiting shipyard heads graced the earlier part of this show, which lasts until the evening of Sunday April 13.

Azimut-Benetti CEO Marco Valle and Gulf Craft Chairman Mohammed Alshaali were also among speakers this year’s Southeast Asia Yachting Conference (April 8-9), and both attended the following Yacht Style Awards gala dinner (April 9) in a busy lead-in to the third Singapore Yachting Festival.

The 56m Charley 2 powercat, built by Australia’s Echo Yachts and based in Singapore, is the largest vessel at the four-day show, with Chris Blackwell, Sales and Marketing Manager, Echo Marine Group & Echo Yachts also arriving to speak at the preceding conference. Charley 2 is one among about a dozen regional premieres.

Among superyacht brokerage houses, Camper & Nicholsons is exhibiting Azimut 116 Hye Seas II, a 26m Ferretti Yachts hull, and Horizon FD90 Tyee.

Azimut models displayed by dealer Marine Italia include the Seadeck 7’s Asia-Pacific premiere, as well as the Grande Trideck (125ft), Magellano 60 and Fly 53, while other Italian yachts include Absolute’s 52 Fly. Marine Italia is also showing the Aquila 50 Yacht, part of a strong line-up of catamarans at the event.

Simpson Marine’s display includes Sanlorenzo’s SL96A asymmetric planing yacht, SD96 semi-displacement model and SX88 crossover yacht, along with Bluegame’s BGX73 and its BGM75, the brand’s first multihull motoryacht, making its Asia-Pacific debut.

The regional dealer also represents Axopar in Hong Kong, mainland China and Indonesia, and its display will include the Finnish brand’s flagship 45 Cross Cabin.

Ferretti Group is staging the Asia-Pacific premiere of Wally’s spaceship-like wallywhy150 (79ft) along with a Ferretti Yachts 780 and a Rivamare (39ft) from Riva’s Open series. Hong Seh Marine is exhibiting a Boston Whaler 285.

Boat Lagoon Yachting, the Southeast Asia dealer for Princess since 1994, displays the British builder’s Y95, Y85, Y75, F65 and F55 flybridge motoryachts along with Jeanneau’s Merry Fisher 1295 Fly. Sunseeker is hosting the Asia-Pacific premiere of its 90 Ocean alongside a Manhattan 68 in a collaboration with DCH Marine, which will also show Saxdor’s 400 GTC, 320 GTO and 270 GTO.

Gulf Craft models include the Asia debuts of the Nomad 101 and Nomad 70, as well as a Majesty 62, all shown with dealer Magsubsea, which is also displaying Silent Yachts’ SY62 solar-electric power catamaran. De Antonio’s D50 Coupe motoryacht will be exhibited by Flow Yacht Club.

Derani Yachts is showing Greenline’s 48 Fly and Greenline 45 Fly (Hybrid) flybridge motoryachts, Axopar’s 37 Sun Top and its new 29 Cross Cabin, as well as a Selene 62 Ocean Explorer brokerage yacht.

In a strong show for multihulls, Leopard will again have a formidable display, including all three of the brand’s powercats – 53PC, 46PC and 40PC – while efforts are being made to stage the Asia-Pacific premiere of the Leopard 46 sailing catamaran.

Among sailing cats, Seawind is staging the global debut of the 1160XL, the solar-electric Sunreef 60 Eco will be making its Asia-Pacific premiere, and Fountaine Pajot’s Alegria 67 and Elba 45 will be shown by regional dealer The Yacht Sales Co. The Sky Walker S60, shown by Fantasea Ocean, and Rapido’s R500 Eco Power Cat are among powercats.

A Hanse 460 is the show’s only sailing monohull confirmed to date, the Noordic 28 by UX Marine is among electric motorboats, while water toy demonstrations will also be a highlight of the on-water activity.

On land, the show includes luxury car displays featuring the likes of McLaren, Porsche, Lamborghini and Ferrari, as well as an exclusive Aston Martin showcase. The Festival Market has been expanded to feature a wider range of alfresco food and beverage stalls, as well as lifestyle merchants.

The indoor pavilion is home to those displaying yachting and marina services, as well as lifestyle products and services – and not least of all: our Yacht Style booth. Do drop by and see us.

The new-for-2025 Superyacht Lounge is sponsored by Damen Yachting and supported by Rolls-Royce and Sevenstar Yacht Transport, while the VIP Lounge offers an exclusive environment for luxury lifestyle enthusiasts and industry leaders.

singaporeyachtingfestival.com

singaporeyachtingfestival.com/index/registration

Yacht Style Awards 2025: And the Winners are …

News / yachtstyle2020

Yacht Style Awards 2025: And the Winners are …

April 11, 2025
12:07 pm

The Yacht Style Awards 2025 saw 34 Winners presented with trophies on April 9 during a vibrant gala dinner.

An annual highlight of the yachting industry calendar, the Yacht Style Awards 2025 and gala dinner dynamically returned on Wednesday evening, April 9, at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, the night before the third Singapore Yachting Festival opened.

Held in the Constellation Ballroom, it featured an audience of more than 300 VIPs, yacht owners and prospects, and major personalities in the yachting industry.

Those in attendance obviously enjoyed the pre-event cocktail, catching up with an international yachting-minded crowd, engaging and enjoying the opportunity to be photographed against the Yacht Style Awards 2025 backdrop wall.

A selection of Singaporean boutique purveyors of premium caviar, oysters and specialty drinks at the cocktail added to the sense of occasion.

Divided into three sessions, a total of 33 categories of Awards were presented live onstage, with winners or their representatives gratefully accepting the accolades – some with emotional words regarding their being acknowledged.

Familiar faces to many in room, who might not have been expected to collect awards on the night included long-time Hong Kong resident Richard Allen, now relocating to Thailand, who collected on behalf of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club. And Trixie LohMirmand flew in from the UAE to collect Best Boat Show in Asia, as organiser of the Dubai International Boat Show.

Throughout the gala event and Awards-presentation sessions, a four-course dinner and drinks selection were served, and a live saxophonist serenaded attendees.

Award categories were devised to showcase excellence and creative flair in the industry both regionally and internationally.

Criteria for the yacht categories include innovation, design, build quality, environmental responsibility, owner experience, personal achievements and a focus on the Asia market. Category eligibility across Awards was firstly assessed on the period from January 2024, to March 2025. Any yacht-model nominee selected also had to have not been nominated for Yacht Style Awards 2024.

Gael Burlot, CEO and Publisher of Yacht Style, organiser of the Awards, said: “The Yacht Style Awards 2025 took a lot of deliberation about innovation, design, flair, durability, and – perhaps more than ever – sustainability.

“While the focus is on the extended Asia market, from Dubai to Australia and from Hong Kong to Indonesia, over 20 judges from around the world helped us to make the final decision, in 33 categories this year.

“I’d like to thank the sponsors of the gala dinner and Awards, including Maison 21G Paris, Brimoncourt Champagne, Voyager, Seakeepers Asia, SUTL / ONE°15 Marina, Sturion Caviar, and others who made this event very special.”

With the Nominees named from March 27, 2025 and Winners declared and awarded on April 9, 2025, we list all those presented below, under each Category:

Yacht Style Awards 2025 Winners

Motoryacht Under 10m: Axopar 29 (XC, ST, CCX)

Motoryacht 10-13m: Saxdor 400 GTC

Motoryacht 13-15m: Galeon 435 GTO/GTI

Motoryacht 15-18m: Absolute Navetta 53

Motoryacht 18-21m: Greenline 58 Fly – Hybrid

Motoryacht 21-24m: (joint winners) Azimut Seadeck 7, Wally wallywhy100

Motoryacht 24-30m: Princess S80

Power Catamarans Under 15m: Aquila 46 Coupe

Power Catamarans Above 15m: Sunreef 60 Power Eco

Sailing Yacht Under 20m: Beneteau First 30

Sailing Yacht Above 20m: Nautor Swan – Swan 88

Sailing Catamaran Below 15m: Leopard 46

Sailing Catamaran Above 15m: Lagoon 60

Superyacht 30-40m: Gulf Craft Majesty 100 Terrace

Superyacht 40-60m: Sanlorenzo 50Steel

Superyacht 60-70m: Benetti Kasper 7 (custom)

Superyacht 70-80m: Damen Yachting Amels 80

Superyacht Above 80m: Lürssen Dragonfly

Most Active Global Yacht Group: Ferretti Group

Builder in Asia: Cheoy Lee / CL Yachts

Phinisi Builder & Charter: Pacific High, Indonesia

Domestic Dealer in Asia: Tam Son Yachting, Vietnam

Regional Dealer in Asia: Boat Lagoon Yachting

Global Brokerage in Asia Under 40m: Fraser

Global Brokerage in Asia Above 40m: Burgess

Global Charter Company in Asia: Camper & Nicholsons

Asia-Based Charter Company: Asia Global Yachting

Marina in Asia: Ocean Marina Jomtien, Thailand

Boat Show in Asia: Dubai International Boat Show

Yacht Club in Asia: Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club

Sailing Event in Asia: Phuket King’s Cup, Thailand

Sustainability Leader & Organisation: Arthur Tay, Chairman of SUTL and ONE°15 Marina, Singapore

Legacy Maker: Mohammed Alshaali, Chairman, Gulf Craft

Note 1: For photos, download from here

Note 2: For the full list of Yacht Style Awards 2025 nominees, click: yachtstyle.co/yacht-style-awards-2025-presented-april-9/

yachtstyle.co

Sunreef Lounge opens in Shanghai

Leave a Comment / News / yachtstyle2020

Sunreef Lounge opens in Shanghai

April 10, 2025
6:23 pm

Francis Lapp, who founded Sunreef Yachts in 2002, attended the opening of the waterside Sunreef Lounge in Pudong.

Francis Lapp (second right) with his family and guests

Sunreef Yachts staged an entertainment-packed outdoor launch ceremony for the Sunreef Lounge in Shanghai, with the new location at the Sunch Yacht Club in Pudong marking a significant milestone in the brand’s global expansion.

Francis Lapp, who founded Sunreef Yachts in Poland in 2002, attended the opening of the Sunreef Lounge with his family. China-born Nina Lee Boudoul, Sunreef’s Asia-Pacific Director, was also among senior staff at the riverside event, which featured a dance troupe on stage.

The Sunreef Lounge in Shanghai marks the luxury catamaran builder’s second major new location in China, where late last year Lapp also attended the opening of the Sunreef Eco Club at the Citychamp Dartong Yacht Club in Fuzhou, almost 500 miles south of Shanghai.

The new Lounge in Shanghai is the latest example of Sunreef’s its growing presence in Asia, as well as its ongoing commitment to innovation and craftsmanship in luxury yachting.

“More than just a showroom, the Sunreef Lounge is a platform designed to foster meaningful connections and shape the future of luxury yachting in China,” the shipyard stated. “It serves as a meeting point for clients, partners and enthusiasts eager to explore the brand’s latest innovations and sustainable solutions in an immersive, refined setting.”

Sunreef has two shipyards in the northern Polish city of Gdansk and last year staged the official opening of its UAE production facility in Ras Al Khaimah, which is currently focused on producing the new line of Ultima powercats.

The Ultima 55, the line’s first model, had its world premiere at this year’s Dubai International Boat Show in March and the new Sunreef Lounge in Shanghai will include a focus on the popular new series.

“The Lounge will highlight Sunreef’s cutting-edge designs including the Sunreef Ultima line – a revolutionary concept blending speed, comfort and sustainability,” Sunreef added.

“With a focus on eco-conscious yachting, the Sunreef Lounge reflects the shipyard’s ambition to inspire a new generation of owners who seek both performance and responsibility. By merging its unique vision of luxury with local culture and sustainable values, Sunreef Yachts is setting the course for a bold and inspiring future in Asia.”

sunreef-yachts.com

Azimut stages APAC debut of Seadeck 7

Leave a Comment / News / yachtstyle2020

Azimut stages APAC debut of Seadeck 7

April 10, 2025
5:52 pm

The Italian shipyard and dealer Marine Italia hosted the Asia-Pacific premiere of the Seadeck 7 among a three-boat display at the Singapore Yachting Festival.

Azimut Seadeck 7

Following its US debut at this year’s Palm Beach International Boat Show in March, Azimut’s Seadeck 7 had its Asia-Pacific premiere at the third Singapore Yachting Festival, held at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove from April 10-13. The 71ft flybridge model, which followed the Seadeck 6, was first shown at last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival.

Designed to provide “a gentler way of experiencing the sea”, the Seadeck 7 enjoyed extra publicity in Singapore after it won the Motoryacht 21-24m category at this year’s Yacht Style Awards, which was held at the marina’s Constellation Ballroom on the eve of the Singapore Yachting Festival.

The Marine Italia dealership co-hosted Azimut’s in-water line-up at the four-day show, which also included the Magellano 60 and the Grande Trideck, Azimut’s 38m flagship, which already has two units in delivered in the region and another to arrive in the coming months.

However, it was the Seadeck 7 that enjoyed much of the attention, with the model honoured for its ‘Fun Island’ beach club, conceived by exterior designer Alberto Mancini, and eco-friendly materials selected by interior designers Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez.

‘Fun Island’ on the Seadeck 7

With an efficient dual-mode hull by NAMES, reduced weight due to extensive use of carbon-fibre, and Volvo Penta’s first hybrid version of its IPS (inboard propulsion system), the Seadeck 7 “allows an attentive owner to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40 per cent over an average year of use”, according to Azimut.

Enrico Chiaussa, Azimut Chief Commercial Officer EMEA-APAC, said: “The Singapore Yachting Festival is the ideal stage for us to present the Seadeck 7, an expression of Azimut’s ability to propose new lifestyles on board, through innovative layouts and collaborations with internationally renowned designers. Our approach freshly reinterprets traditional canons, placing wellness, experience and the relationship between people on board at the centre.

“Asia is now one of the most dynamic areas on a global level. Our owners in APAC demonstrate a strong bond with the brand’s values and a growing focus on proposals oriented towards greater sustainability. We are certain that this new model will be enthusiastically welcomed in a region where Azimut continues to strengthen its leadership by gaining new market shares.”

Upcoming brand activities in the region include the first Azimut Asian Rendez-Vous, which will be held in Tokyo.

azimutyachts.com

Highlights from Watches and Wonders Geneva 2025

Leave a Comment / Lifestyle / yachtstyle2020

Highlights from Watches and Wonders Geneva 2025

April 10, 2025
11:57 am

From stealth drops to technical flexes, Watches and Wonders Geneva 2025 delivered drama and a few quiet revolutions — with Rolex, Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin making the loudest noise in the most unexpected ways.

By Ashok Soman

Watch fairs like Watches and Wonders Geneva (WWG) are built around a measure of secrecy that can be difficult to understand but this year was a little different. Since there was an unprecedented leak from Rolex on most of its novelties, including the deeply consequential Oyster Perpetual Land-Dweller (see our brief post on that watch), plans for grand reveals went up like smoke – minus the fireworks. Brands flooded everyone’s inboxes with their news by midnight on day one of WWG 2025, with only a few staying their hands, notably Patek Philippe and Bulgari. We are not sure about the value of preserving mystique and the like, but one of the joys of a show like WWG is discovering watches for the first time on day one. It can even influence decisions on which brands to see first next time. On that note, the top dog of this fair was Rolex, leaks notwithstanding.

It is certainly a rare vintage year for the jolly green giant of Geneva watchmaking, with not only new models and new dials but also two new bracelets – just one of those would have been remarkable enough. Needless to say, when you throw the new calibre 7135 into the mix, this spells domination (in our opinion). With the Land-Dweller, Rolex has the most important watch of 2025. Yes, that means the entire year and includes all brands, not just Swiss ones and not just the 60 or so brands exhibiting within the Palexpo. The only brand that could challenge Rolex is Rolex, and that would indeed be something. With the world as it is, we are lucky in watchmaking that the most powerful force is indeed a force for good. We have it on good authority that the Land-Dweller is coming to stores soon, and it will not be limited to Bucherer, to cite just one example.

Overall, the fair was abuzz with good cheer from A. Lange & Sohne, Bulgari, Vacheron Constantin, Zenith and Patek Philippe. Since we gave over our entire first day coverage to Rolex, with the aforementioned watch, we shall lead here with Patek Philippe. Of course, we noted the new sizes for the Cubitus on social media but this is hardly the story at the great Geneva brand. Instead, what seems to have grabbed the most attention is Ref. 6196P, which is a successor of sorts to the discontinued Ref. 5196. For anyone who appreciates the Calatrava, this new model will be essential. The brand’s continuing commitment to good timekeeping principles is evident in the calibre 30-255 PS (new for this reference but introduced in 2021).

For something more complicated, there is a new split-seconds chronograph built into an existing calibre in ref. 5308G that features two special features. The first is an anti-backlash wheel to tackle friction when the chronograph wheel engages with the seconds wheel; the second is an isolation system that prevents energy consumption when the split seconds mechanism is stopped. If that sounds prosaic, that is because these are functional improvements that will not be immediately evident. This is because this reference is a quadruple complication, with minute repeater, split-seconds chronograph and instantaneous perpetual calendar. One reason that the new technical features will make themselves felt here is that the split-seconds chronograph is new – it was previously a mere chronograph.

For cynics and realists alike, there is every chance that Patek Philippe is saving something for later in the year. This does not matter that much for this story because there are plenty of great watches fighting for your very valuable attention at WWG. Key amongst those will be the Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Solaria Ultra Grand Complication, which now has the honour of being the world’s most complicated watch (by number of functions at 41, if not the 1,521 component count) as well as the first grand complication to crown itself with the ‘ultra’ designation. We especially like that the watch manages to cram all of this horological excellence into a case clocking in at just 14.99mm thick (it is 45mm in diameter and has two faces, but this is irrelevant).

Interestingly, the Solaria Ultra was made by just one master watchmaker, whose identity has not been disclosed, much as the old standards were. Unusually, this watchmaker worked with the designer on the case; normally, aesthetics are a domain that does not concern the movement developer and thus we wonder if there is a secret signature somewhere here that points to the identity of the maker, just as was the case for Jean-Marc Vacheron back in the day. Yes, the Solaria Ultra might be the most sought-after yet completely inaccessible watch of its kind. It certainly helps that Vacheron Constantin is making just one of this model, although we fully expect that it will be hugely consequential for releases in the coming years. For evidence, just look to the 250th anniversary watch and what happened there.

From the supremely complicated, we move to a simple expression of precision with the Zenith GFJ. Clearly, another anniversary we are paying attention to is over at Zenith, which celebrates its 160th birthday this year with the aforementioned new GFJ model. Just as the Skyline was at its debut, this is now the only full collection that exists with pure time-only properties. Collectors will no doubt hanker for a chronograph and it may already be on the way but for now, we get to enjoy this new collection as pure tribute to precision timekeeping. Calling attention to itself with a massive balance wheel, the reissue of the manual-winding Calibre 135 looks like a straight recreation but it is anything but. The unique brick-style decoration on the movement plates indicates that much, and it will only be in play for this anniversary edition. A key technical feature of the GFJ is its 72-hour power reserve, which is highly contemporary (and an improvement over the original’s 40-hour or so rating). What is the accuracy of this tribute to on-point timekeeping then? The brand says it is chronometer-level, meaning +/-2 seconds per day.

Looking at broader trends and the like, it is probably best to wait a few weeks to digest all the information. For those who insist on gleaning whatever they can, we will simply say that case sizes continue to become more demure even as dials embrace all manner of novel decorations, materials and colours. If you thought we hit peak colour with the bold Rolex Oyster Perpetuals of a few years ago, well think again. Even Chanel is joining in, with its advertising reading “It’s not black; it’s not white. It’s Bleu.” We will be brining you more on this front and the remarkable J12 Bleu soon but we must return to those broad strokes we mentioned. To avoid ending on a sour note, we will sneak in a reference to the ongoing tariff wars, which of course impact watchmaking too.

To be blunt, there are much more important consequences to the tariffs than will be felt in Swiss watchmaking at all levels. The US is an important market for Swiss watches – the number one market in fact – so there are likely to be shocks but it is the wild west out there and no one knows how this will pan out. Uncertainty is the new normal as the stock market presents the cash-rich youth with opportunities to build wealth like their parents did. In fact, this should read ‘stock markets’ because there is hardly one that has not taken a dive.

We will end, for now, with a note about the watch industry’s commitment to making every shape possible, so long as those shapes are round. WWG 25 did not reveal any changes here, nor did it indicate that brands were in the mood to experiment with forms. The most exciting form watches this year are still from brands with established legitimacy here, including Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Bulgari, which is a fresh entrant in the Palexpo. Of the bold bunch, led as always by Hublot, things were quiet as far as new developments go but there is optimism aplenty in the messaging. For the 20^th anniversary of the Big Bang, there are a lot of special editions to choose from, and every indication that the brand is holding back on a surprise or two. And that, we predict, is all we can expect from the world of watches in the second half of 2025: surprises.

For more on the latest in luxury watch reads, click here.

Adventure Boats 2025: Part 1

Leave a Comment / News / yachtstyle2020

Adventure Boats 2025: Part 1

April 10, 2025
3:22 am

‘Adventure starts wherever you are. We take you there.’ So states Axopar, which continues to lead the popularity of Nordic-inspired ‘adventure boats’, as revealed in the first chapter of a two-part feature.
Words: John Higginson; Photos: Shipyards

Axopar continues to focus on adventure with its boats and lifestyle products

Following Axopar’s 10th-anniversary celebrations last year – which included debuts of its AX/E electric boats and The Adventure Collection of watersports products – the Finnish brand kicked off 2025 in typically high-profile fashion by collecting two awards during the Boot Düsseldorf show in Germany.

One year after the Axopar 29 debuted in two versions at Boot 2024, the yacht won ‘Best Sportsboat up to 30ft’ at the 2025 Motor Boat Awards, while the Cross Cabin version was named European Powerboat of the Year in the ‘Up to 10m’ category.

Jan-Erik Viitala, Axopar’s Founding Partner, was delighted with the recognition of the 29, which represents the third generation of a model that began as the Axopar 28 – the company’s first boat – and was released in an upgraded Mark II edition in 2018.

Jan-Erik Viitala, Axopar’s Founding Partner, was named EY Entrepreneur of the Year in Finland for 2024

“We’re really humbled by the awards for the Axopar 29. With the launch of the third generation of Axopar, we genuinely believe we’re getting a good idea of what customers are looking for, and how we can continue driving innovation forward,” said Viitala, who has been the face of Axopar since the company debuted at the Helsinki International Boat Show (Vene Båt) in February 2014.

“At the same time, we remain true to our core DNA – creating boats that are easy to handle, easy to drive, and accessible for everyone, whether you’re an experienced boater or just starting out.”

As well as the enclosed Cross Cabin and open Sun Top versions, Axopar has launched further versions of the 29. It debuted the CCX crossover centre-console model at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2024, before introducing the fishing version of the 29 CCX at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in late October.

Axopar debuted the fishing version of the 29 CCX at the 2024 Fort Lauderdale show

During Boot this year, Axopar introduced the Mediterrana Edition upholstery on the 29 Cross Cabin and Sun Top models, while introducing Miami Blue and Platinum Grey hull colour options available through the ‘Brabus Line’ options, which also include upgraded engines. In fact, Viitala was proud to announce that the Axopar 29 was now available in over 300 different configurations!

“With our designers, we’ve been pushing the modularity and the functionality to extremes, and I believe the Axopar 29 is the most modular boat ever built. The 29 CCX alone can accommodate seven aft-deck variations,” he said.

“Across the three models, with the aft and foredeck variations, combined with the accommodation choices, we can offer 308 different configurations. We’ve been pushing modularity for over 10 years and now we really feel we understand it.”

The Cross Cabin version of the Axopar 29, which succeeded the iconic Axopar 28

In just over a decade, Axopar’s range of boats from 22-45ft has racked up 6,500 sales, dominated by the iconic 28 and the 37, which debuted at Boot 2015 and was succeeded by the Mark II edition in 2020.

In fact, the Axopar 37 was the brand’s most-produced model in 2024, with just under 500 units rolling off the lines in Poland. Demand was boosted by Axopar’s biggest single customer order to date, with the UAE government purchasing over 50 units. Axopar’s other models include the entry-level 22 introduced in 2021, plus the 25 and flagship 45 that both debuted the followed year.

Last year, the brand moved into electric models with the debuts of the AX/E 22 and AX/E 25 following a collaboration with Evoy, a leader in high-output electric propulsion systems.

Axopar produced almost 500 units of the 37 in 2024, with the UAE government ordering over 50 hulls

Axopar’s display at Boot this year showed the variety of its range with a 22 T-Top and AX/E 25 Cross Top, three versions of its 29 – CCX and the Mediterrana Edition of the Cross Cabin and Sun Top – as well as two 37s (Cross Cabin, Sun Top) and two 45s (Cross Cabin, Cross Top).

“Axopar boats are the epitome of versatility and functionality,” Viitala says. “Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced all-weather boater, a sailboat race captain, a movie star, or have just worked hard for years to be able to buy the boat of your dreams, we cater for them all.”

Axopar is now about more than solely boats. Its new Adventure Collection includes watersports products – such as inflatable kayaks and paddleboards, electric seascooters, life vests and dry bags – developed with Dutch-owned Jobe. The clothing line and bags developed in collaboration with Swedish company Sail Racing were unveiled at Boot 2025.

The Adventure Collection by Axopar includes watersports products by Jobe

“With this new collection, the adventure extends beyond what you can do onboard – it leaps into new territories,” Viitala said. “The gear is perfect for bringing along on the boat, but its possibilities are so much greater. Imagine packing an inflatable two-person kayak or SUP board into a backpack and unlocking a new world of exploration.”

Axopar continues to be profitable and debt-free, announcing positive EBITDA of €13.5 million and €190 million of turnover for last year, up from €166 million in 2023.

Now employing about 1,200 staff, the company produces 700-800 boats per year across two sites in Poland – at the Slepsk factory in Augustow, and in Slupsk, where Axopar is now the majority shareholder in the Markos composite-production facility.

Axopar also continues to grow and refresh its global dealer network, now with over 50 distributors around the world.

The Adventure Collection by Axopar also includes clothing and bags by Sail Racing

Last year, Simpson Marine was appointed to cover Hong Kong, mainland China and Indonesia, and this year it hosted the Axopar Adventure Day in Hong Kong. The regional dealer complements other Axopar representatives including Derani Yachts (Thailand), Europa Yachts (Philippines), Amal Yachting (Taiwan), Marineland (Korea) and Okazaki Yachts (Japan) elsewhere in Asia.

For Axopar, its increasingly wide variety of designs and configuration options across its five boat lines, as well as the new electric models and The Adventure Collection, means it can offer more fitting solutions to each of its customer’s needs.

“We have a variety of customers at Axopar and it’s amazing to know who are buying our boats and what they do with the boats. However, we’re not only producing boats; we’re here to create experiences,” concludes Viitala, who previously worked at Nimbus, Paragon and XO Boats.

“We’re now focusing more strongly on what we see as our responsibility to take people for their greatest moments in life, to help people enjoy big or small adventures, whatever they might be.”

Brabus premiered the Cross Top version of its flagship Shadow 1200 at Boot Düsseldorf 2025, a year after debuting the Cross Cabin edition

Brabus Marine – which offers upgraded versions of Axopar models – unveiled the Cross Top edition of its flagship Shadow 1200 at Boot this year. Based on the Axopar 45 and boosted by three 400hp Mercury Racing V10 outboards, the Cross Top model was showcased in the brand’s Black Ops Signature Edition, as it was for the Shadow 1200’s debut in its enclosed Cross Cabin version a year earlier.

Formed in 2017, Brabus Marine is an alliance between Axopar and German tuner Brabus. Its upgraded ‘superboats’ are produced 4km from the Axopar facility in Augustow and use higher-value materials, superyacht-standard paint-finishing processes, high-end detailing, and increased power and technology.

Along with the three Shadow 1200 versions, Brabus Marine also produces other Shadow models based on Axopar platforms, with the number indicating the boat’s total horsepower. The Shadow 900 and 1000 are based on the Axopar 37, the Shadow 500 builds on the Axopar 29, while the Shadow 300 upgrades the Axopar 25.

axopar.com

brabusmarine.com

simpsonmarine.com

derani-yachts.com

Moreau heads Aquila in APAC

Leaders / yachtstyle2020

Moreau heads Aquila in APAC

April 9, 2025
12:08 pm

Benoit Moreau has been appointed as the Asia-Pacific Sales Director for Aquila, a world leader in power catamarans.

Benoit Moreau, Asia-Pacific Sales Director, Aquila

Aquila has announced the appointment of Benoit Moreau as its Regional Sales Director for Asia-Pacific, to support the company’s growing dealer network and strengthen its presence across the region.

Moreau brings over 15 years of marine industry expertise throughout Asia. As co-founder of Cape-10 in China, he managed Beneteau Group brands before becoming COO and Brand Director of Tam Son Yachting in Vietnam.

“I am honoured to join Aquila Power Catamarans at such an exciting time of growth in the Asia-Pacific region,” Moreau said.

“With continued growing industry recognition, we’re strategically positioned to meet the increasing demand for premium power catamarans across these markets. My focus will be on strengthening our dealer network and ensuring Aquila’s innovative designs reach discerning buyers throughout the region.”

Moreau’s experience as a marine dealer in the region will be instrumental in supporting Aquila’s Asia-Pacific dealer network, which included the appointment of Marine Italia in Hong Kong and Singapore in early 2024. Aquila and Marine Italia staged the Asia debut of the Aquila 50 Yacht flybridge model at this year’s Singapore Yachting Festival.

Nick Harvey, Aquila’s Chief Revenue Officer, said: “I am delighted to welcome Benoit to the team. This is an important new step in our organisation as we continue to plan steady growth and network development for the coming years. Ben’s skills and passion for the industry will be ideal to manage Aquila’s dealer network, acquire new dealers, foster strong relationships, and drive sales growth effectively.”

Aquila powercats are built by Sino Eagle Yachts in China and include models from 28-70ft across Offshore, Sport, Coupe, Yacht and Luxury lines.

aquilaboats.com

Fanizza appointed CEO of Next Yacht Group

Leaders / yachtstyle2020

Fanizza appointed CEO of Next Yacht Group

April 9, 2025
11:39 am

Sebastiano Fanizza takes charge of Maiora and AB Yachts, having held senior roles at Benetti, Nautor Swan and Azimut.

Sebastiano Fanizza, CEO, Next Yacht Group

Next Yacht Group, owner of the Maiora and AB Yachts brands, has announced Sebastiano Fanizza as its new Chief Executive Officer. Fanizza has held the role since April 2 after joining from Benetti, where he was the superyacht builder’s Chief Commercial Officer for 6½ years, in his second major stint at the Azimut-Benetti Group.

A graduate in Mechanical Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Turin, the Italian began his career in the automotive sector at Iveco, before transitioning to the yachting industry by joining Azimut in March 2005, working for the Italian shipyard for almost 11 years.

Fanizza rose through the ranks to eventually become Azimut’s Sales and Service Director for the EMEA and APAC regions in 2013, having earlier spent 3½ years as Asia Pacific Area Manager based in Shanghai, China.

In 2015, at the invitation of Leonardo Ferragamo, he joined Nautor Swan as Commercial and Business Development Director, where he restructured the sales network and drove significant growth in the order book.

Joining Benetti as CCO in October 2018, he drove outstanding commercial results and now hopes to transfer his leadership skills to the Next Yacht Group, which was formed in 2021. It has since more than doubled its workforce and acquired the former Perini Navi shipyard in Viareggio in 2024, as it revitalises the Maiora and AB Yachts brands founded in 1980 and 1992 respectively.

“Taking the helm at Next Yacht Group is more than just a new chapter in my career; it’s a chance to shape the future of a company with extraordinary potential. I’m excited to work alongside a great team to bring new energy to two extraordinary brands like Maiora and AB Yachts,” Fanizza said.

“Together, we will continue to push boundaries, blending Italian craftsmanship with smart innovation to offer our clients something that truly reflects their vision of life at sea. From that experience, we are already imagining a new way of living onboard, beyond today’s conventions.”

Headquartered in Viareggio, where it has 11,100sqm of facilities across two sites, Next Yacht Group also has a 20,000sqm production site in nearby Massa and is currently building about two dozen 25m-plus yachts.

nextyachtgroup.com

maiora.it

abyachts.com

Luca Raumland joins Lürssen

Leaders / yachtstyle2020

Luca Raumland joins Lürssen

April 9, 2025
11:11 am

Celebrating its 150th anniversary, Lürssen has appointed Raumland as Director of Sales & Marketing as part of its succession plans.

Luca Raumland

Lürssen, the world’s leading builder of large superyachts, has appointed Luca Raumland as its Director of Sales & Marketing, based in Bremen in northern Germany.

Raumland started his career in boat sales at Lake Constance in 2004, at the age of 16, and most recently spent 3½ years with Bavaria and 7½ years with Greenline Yachts. At Lürssen, he will work closely with Michael Breman, who has been the German shipyard’s Sales Director since 1996.

“We are thrilled to welcome Luca to the Lürssen family,” Breman said. “His expertise and energy will be of great value as we continue to deliver exceptional yachts and experiences to our clients worldwide.”

Peter Lürssen, Managing Partner of the 150-year-old shipyard, said Raumland is part of Lürssen’s long-term plans and will collaborate with Tim Hamilton, who has been Director of Lürssen Americas since 2017.

“At Lürssen, we take succession seriously,” Lürssen said. “We have to make sure the future of the company is in good hands – and that means starting early enough to set up the right team. Together with Luca and Tim Hamilton, we are building the next generation of sales force that combines deep industry knowledge with fresh ideas.”

Raumland joins Lürssen after just over 7½ years at Greenline Yachts, where he was Head of Sales and Marketing, Chief Sales Marketing Officer then Chief Commercial Officer of the Slovenian pioneer of hybrid and electric motoryachts.

Last year, Raumland helped launch GX Superyachts with Greenline founder Vladimir Zinchenko and was Director of Sales for the new superyacht brand, which is building the first 42m GX42 in Turkey. Earlier this year, Raumland was listed as an Advisory Board Member of both Greenline Yachts and GX Superyachts.

“I’m incredibly proud to have been part of Greenline’s growth and evolution over these past years, and I’m beyond grateful for the passionate team that made it all possible. And of course, the biggest thank you goes to Vladimir Zinchenko, a great friend and mentor,” Raumland stated following his move to Lürssen.

“Now, a new chapter begins, one that, after more than 20 years in the nautical world, honestly feels a bit like a childhood dream. Working with legends like Peter Lürssen and Michael Breman is both exciting and a big responsibility. I look forward to learning from them and contributing to this iconic shipyard in any way I can.”

lurssen.com

Asia's leading yachting lifestyle media

yachtstyle2020

SHARE

Majesty 100 Terrace: stately successor

SHARE

Editor's Picks

SHARE

Sunreef Yachts introduces Solar Skin 3.0

SHARE

Editor's Picks

SHARE

Adventure Boats 2025: Part 2

SHARE

Editor's Picks

SHARE

Singapore Yachting Festival 2025 launches

SHARE

Editor's Picks

SHARE

Yacht Style Awards 2025: And the Winners are …

SHARE

Editor's Picks

SHARE

Sunreef Lounge opens in Shanghai

SHARE

Editor's Picks

SHARE

Azimut stages APAC debut of Seadeck 7

SHARE

Editor's Picks

Highlights from Watches and Wonders Geneva 2025

SHARE

SHARE

Editor's Picks

SHARE

Adventure Boats 2025: Part 1

SHARE

Editor's Picks

SHARE

Moreau heads Aquila in APAC

SHARE

Editor's Picks

SHARE

Fanizza appointed CEO of Next Yacht Group

SHARE

Editor's Picks

SHARE

Luca Raumland joins Lürssen

SHARE

Editor's Picks