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Galeon, Asiamarine, Tony Castro, 620 Fly, In Situ & Partners, Yacine

Galeon upgrades ‘beach mode’ on 620 Fly

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Galeon upgrades ‘beach mode’ on 620 Fly

February 19, 2025
8:22 pm

The asymmetrical Flybridge model offers three balconies on two levels, and a new interior collaboration with a Hong Kong design studio.

Tony Castro designed the Galeon 620 Fly

Galeon has revealed CGIs and details of its upcoming 620 Fly, which is scheduled to debut in the latter half of 2025, potentially at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September.

Featuring an overall length of 65ft 7in and a 20ft-plus beam, the model is part of the builder’s Flybridge series. It sits between the 560 Fly that debuted at the 2023 Cannes Yachting Festival and the 640 Fly, which was unveiled in its updated version at the Boot Dusseldorf indoor show this January.

The 620 Fly includes large beach platforms on both sides

However, the 620 Fly design by Tony Castro – who has worked with Galeon since 2001 – has given the brand’s iconic ‘beach mode’ a new twist. Instead of two balconies on both sides of the main deck, the new model includes three drop-down terraces: one on the starboard side of the main deck and two flanking the hydraulic swim platform.

The large port beach platform can even be accessed by a door from the full-beam master suite, which enjoys an open view of the water and direct sea access. The starboard beach platform is slightly thinner, but still completes a three-sided beach area by the water.

The flybridge has three separate social zones

The swim platform and beach platforms are accessed by steps from the cockpit’s starboard side, where further stairs lead up to an impressively large flybridge.

The top deck is backed by a large, three-sided lounging area that sits aft of a C-shaped dinette to port and a U-shaped wet bar to starboard. Forward is another C-shaped sofa, which accompanies the bench-seat helm station to port.

The main deck has only one side deck and balcony, to starboard

The main deck has an asymmetrical layout, with only a full side deck to starboard, where the drop-down balcony can create a bar over the water once stools are installed.

For the interior, Galeon is working for the first time with In Situ & Partners, a Hong Kong-based studio founded in 2011 by Yacine Bensalem. Design traits include rounded cabinetry, ambient lighting and integrated air-conditioning vents, while owners can choose from five décor themes – Ocean, Amber, Terra, Pearl and Ivory – each inspired by natural materials and colours.

The interior is by Hong Kong-based In Situ & Partners

The spacious saloon has a widebody design to port, featuring a C-shaped sofa and an adjustable table that can be lowered and covered with cushions to create a large lounging area. The sofa faces a long bar counter to starboard, where there’s also a retractable TV and an opening window that creates an open connection to the waterside bar.

Forward to port is an open galley with a central island, while to starboard are the lower-deck staircase and twin-seat helm station. Pantograph doors in the galley and by the helm both offer side access to the flexible foredeck, while the central windscreen can be moved to the side to create an indoor flow of air from bow to stern.

The full-beam master suite includes a door to the port beach platform

The lower deck can be configured with three or four guest cabins, including a full-beam master suite and a forward VIP. Aft, the crew cabin includes two berths, a kitchenette and a bathroom.

Asiamarine has represented Galeon since 2016 and covers Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand, while also managing a network of dealers in the rest of the region.

galeon.pl

asiamarine.com

AkzoNobel pioneers digital revolution in yacht coatings

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AkzoNobel pioneers digital revolution in yacht coatings

February 19, 2025
7:56 pm

The XpertEye headset, Virtual Reality Spray Gun and Awlgrip® 3D Color Visualizer all feature in AkzoNobel’s first Yacht Paint Application Center in Asia-Pacific.

Staff at AkzoNobel’s Yacht Paint Application Center in Australia

AkzoNobel’s Yacht Coatings portfolio, including the renowned brands Awlgrip® and International®, offers premium products, all supported by a first-class technical team dedicated to assisting applicators and boat owners worldwide.

Awlgrip® – which celebrated its 50^th anniversary in 2023 – has built a reputation for the highest-quality finish and performance in yacht coatings. Its extensive product range includes a wide selection of colours and effects, valued for their depth of image and proven durability. Backed by expert technical support, Awlgrip® ensures effective product use across the globe.

Similarly, the International® brand stands as a global leader in high-performance yacht coatings, and has become synonymous as the premium coatings brand for above and below the waterline by boaters and professionals. International® provides innovative solutions that protect, enhance, and improve the performance of all types of pleasure craft – everywhere, every time.

In 2024, AkzoNobel opened its first Yacht Paint Application Center (YPAC) in the Asia-Pacific region, providing world-class product and technical training with the latest digital paint application tools. The expansion to Australia increased AkzoNobel’s global training centres to five.

AkzoNobel’s Virtual Reality Spray Gun

Building on its commitment to innovation, AkzoNobel introduced several digital tools – including the Virtual Reality (VR) Spray Gun, XpertEye headset, and Awlgrip® 3D Color Visualizer – to further support the yachting industry.

Designed to enhance training for both experienced and new applicators, the VR Spray Gun simulates real-world yacht painting techniques without using any physical product. Applicators can use virtual versions of Awlgrip® and International® product systems to practise adjusting spray-gun settings, mastering application angles, and perfecting techniques for primers, topcoats and fouling control.

The VR Spray Gun provides users with instant feedback on their technique, which allows them to refine their skills before working with real coatings. The equipment is portable and intrinsically safe, allowing the AkzoNobel technical teams to transport it anywhere to help train distributor representatives, boatyard and applicators.

The XpertEye headset is among AkzoNobel’s new technology

For applicators and boatyards seeking remote technical support, the XpertEye camera headset is a safe, hands-free visual assistant tool that connects users directly to the AkzoNobel technical team for real-time technical support. Users can stream live video and capture images, enabling the AkzoNobel team to observe issues and provide immediate guidance remotely.

The software is compatible with both Apple and Google operating systems, and can be accessed via mobile devices, ensuring support is always within reach. This digital solution enhances access to AkzoNobel’s renowned technical team, enabling applicators to resolve challenges efficiently with minimal disruption to their work. By reducing delays, the XpertEye headset helps customers save time and money, ensuring projects are completed promptly and vessels can return to the water sooner.

The Awlgrip 3D Color Visualizer is an innovative and industry leading tool designed to empower boaters and applicators by simplifying their journey to find the perfect colour for their boat. Unique algorithms provide users with a visual representation of what a boat could look like in a 3D virtual environment.

Awlgrip® 3D Color Visualizer

Users have instant access to tens of thousands of colours from the extensive Awlgrip colour database. The launch of this tool reflects AkzoNobel’s commitment to enriching the customer’s experience when it comes to the important and often emotive subject of colour.

Through its continuous commitment to innovation and customer support, AkzoNobel is redefining excellence in yacht coatings. By combining industry-leading products, cutting-edge digital tools and world-class training facilities, the company is empowering boaters and applicators to achieve superior results with greater efficiency. AkzoNobel remains dedicated to driving progress in the industry, ensuring yachts look and perform at their best.

yachtcoatings.com

akzonobel.com

Sanlorenzo Group announces double-digit growth

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Sanlorenzo announces double-digit growth

February 19, 2025
7:49 pm

Following a year that included two major acquisitions, the Group announced significant growth in new yacht sales and EBITDA.

Following a fourth-quarter order intake of €230.2 million, Sanlorenzo SpA (‘the Sanlorenzo Group’) announced €930.4 million in net revenue from the sales of new yachts in 2024, representing a 10.7 per cent increase from €840.2 million in 2023.

The Group also announced a net backlog of €1,019.8 million, of which €623.1 million refers to 2025 and €396.7 million for subsequent years. The Italian company issued its preliminary consolidated results for the financial year as of December 31, 2024, following approval by its Board of Directors.

“Even in a challenging context such as 2024, Sanlorenzo SpA confirms its ability to keep collecting a significant amount of orders despite waiting lists extending up to 2028, thanks to the desirability of its product portfolio and brands – complementary and non-overlapping – each exclusively positioned at the top end of their respective market segment,” the Group stated.

Last August, the Group – which includes the Sanlorenzo and Bluegame brands – acquired the Nautor Swan shipyard, having acquired the Simpson Marine dealership in Asia-Pacific in March. The Group also established Sanlorenzo Med, bringing together new commercial offices in Monaco and Cannes – both opened in the second half of the year – alongside offices in Palma de Mallorca.

The Group’s net revenue from new yacht sales (‘Net Revenues New Yachts’) were driven by the excellent performance of Sanlorenzo’s Superyacht Division (+17.6 per cent YoY), and the consolidation of 2023 levels by the brand’s Yacht Division (+1.8 per cent YoY) and the Bluegame brand (+1.0% YoY), the latter despite the relative weakness of the sub-24m market.

Additionally, newly acquired Nautor Swan contributed €38.3 million in five months of consolidation, from August to December.

Geographically, a significant rebound was observed in the Americas (+58.4 per cent YoY), while the MEA region (+55.4% YoY) continued its strong development.

Europe (-0.9 per cent YoY) consolidated its 2023 level – up 38.3 per on 2022 – while APAC (-2.3 per cent YoY) “faired relatively well given the weakness of the market which in 2024 impacted the broader top-end luxury industry segment”, according to the Group.

EBITDA for 2024 was €176.4 million, which represented a 12.0 per cent increase on 2023 and a margin of 19.0 per cent on Net Revenues New Yachts. EBIT stood at €139.3 million, representing a 10.6 per cent year-on-year increase and a margin of 15.0 per cent on Net Revenues New Yachts, with limited dilution from the acquisition of Nautor Swan.

The Group also announced organic net investments of €49.3 million, of which over 88 per cent was dedicated to industrial capacity expansion and development of new models and product ranges.

Net investments related to changes in the consolidation perimeter for the inclusion of Nautor Swan and Simpson Marine amounted to €138.8 million, bringing total net investments for the period to €188.1 million. The Group also announced a net cash position of €29.1 million as of December 31, 2024.

Massimo Perotti, Executive Chairman of Sanlorenzo SpA, said: “Our solid growth trajectory, confirmed by achieving results both in terms of revenues and margins, highlights the effectiveness of our ‘Haute Couture’ business model and the ability of our team to successfully navigate global markets and close valuable acquisitions, even in uncertain times like 2024.

“We are steadily pursuing the Group’s long-term vision and executing the strategic objectives set out in our business plan, while maintaining a solid financial position and liquidity that allow us to evaluate and seize every opportunity to further strengthen our brands.

“In line with our Road to 2030 strategy, our spirit of innovation continues to permeate every aspect of the Group’s activities, from concept design to cutting-edge technological solutions, guiding a strategic path that reflects the company’s ambitions and vision as a pioneer in sustainable yachting technologies.

“On the commercial side, we are further strengthening our direct presence in key international yachting hubs, ensuring close proximity to our select clientele, strengthening our competitive advantages, and consolidating the pillars of excellence that define the Sanlorenzo experience.

“We look to the future with confidence, focusing on the execution of our projects while leveraging the values that have always distinguished us – desirability, scarcity and true sustainable luxury – supported by a strong drive for innovation that remains faithful to the brand’s heritage.”

sanlorenzoyacht.com

simpsonmarine.com

Benetti hosts 25th Yachtmaster

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Benetti hosts 25th Yachtmaster

February 18, 2025
1:12 pm

The Italian superyacht builder hosted its annual gathering for captains, surveyors and owner representatives in Morocco.

The Yachtmaster concluded with team-building activities in Marrakesh’s ‘old town’

The 25^th Benetti Yachtmaster was held in Marrakesh at the Fairmont Royal Palm Hotel, which hosted over 200 guests including captains, surveyors, owner representatives and other industry experts. The US edition of the 25^th Benetti Yachtmaster will be held in Miami from April 2-3.

In the two-day event in Morocco, the Benetti Yachtmaster – launched in 2000 by the late Paolo Vitelli – presented the shipyard’s latest products and sustainable technologies, and new customer-service offerings.

The first day was devoted to a coaching session in the style of a serious game. Sitting around a table, groups of 10 people used ‘conversation cards’ to stimulate discussion around work issues. Day two enabled participants to get a closer look at Benetti’s vision in terms of innovation and design, sustainability and assistance, with input by Lusben, the refit division of the Azimut-Benetti Group.

Marco Valle, Azimut-Benetti’s CEO, opened the plenary session by celebrating the 25^th edition of the Yachtmaster and its significance for relationships with stakeholders, while also analysing Azimut-Benetti’s 25^th successive year topping the Global Order Book for 24m-plus yachts.

Massimiliano Casoni, Benetti’s General Manager, focused on the collaboration between the shipyard and the leading players in the boat building industry. To consolidate these relationships, the shipyard conducted interviews in 2024 using the Net Promoter Score (NPS), a tool for measuring customer satisfaction and understanding customers’ propensity to recommend the brand. Together with other tools, the interview results helped identify Benetti’s strengths and areas for improvement.

Massimiliano Casoni, General Manager of Benetti

“Benetti’s success is based on constant dialogue with the various players, including captains, who play a key role in telling the yacht builder what the real onboard requirements are,” Casoni said. “This is an ongoing dialogue that’s far more than the mere delivery of a product. Benetti’s goal is to create made-to-measure yachts that meet the specific needs of owners, captains and crew, so guaranteeing an exclusive yachting experience.”

Daniela Petrozzi, Benetti’s Sales Manager, illustrated the order backlog up to the end of 2028, with 60 yachts under construction and on order totalling over 2.7km in length. Petrozzi broke down the backlog by geographical region – Europe (35%), MEA and APAC (33%), Americas (32%) – and thanked the captains, brokers and surveyors who contributed to 75 per cent of the contracts.

Sebastiano Vida, Benetti’s Head of Product, spoke about Benetti’s self-billed role as ‘The House of Yachting’. He also outlined the shipyard’s new initiative, ‘Perspective from the Bridge’, which enabled captains to explain their point of view at a roundtable focusing on topics such as innovation, sustainability and insights into owners’ ways of enjoying their yachts.

Gilberto Francesini, Benetti’s R&D Project Manager, and Marco Coiatelli, Custom Head of Engineering, presented the shipyard’s Green Route and anticipated future developments. Azimut-Benetti’s study of alternative fuels has led to the adoption of HVO biofuel, while green methanol from renewable sources may be used on Benetti yachts from later this year. A methanol engine room simulator (based on a new 68m project) will be installed in Livorno to help captains familiarise themselves with the functions, safety and management of this new solution.

Pierluigi Rago, Benetti’s Class Warranty Manager, and Luigi Spina, Custom Warranty Manager, illustrated the new assistance programmes serving owners and crews of the Class and Custom yacht lines, offering personalised support for the yacht’s entire life cycle. Every unit benefits from a dedicated Service Manager during the warranty period and a global network of service points in Europe, the Americas, Middle East and Asia-Pacific.

Ferdinando Pilli, General Manager of Lusben

Ferdinando Pilli, Lusben’s General Manager since September 2024, outlined changes in the refit division, as well as the new services and infrastructure following completion of the €12 million investment package in the three-year plan. He also spoke about future projects at the Livorno site to support captains and crews.

“The division’s recent results confirm that investments in infrastructure and personnel in the last few years are bearing fruit,” Pilli said. “We’re still investing to make stays more enjoyable for captains and crews and we’re sure that all this, along with the quality of our work, will enable Lusben to consolidate its role as the refit hub for the entire Mediterranean.”

Gianni Paladino, Lusben’s Sales Manager, announced that the company is managing Benetti’s after-sales service from 2025. A new five-year maintenance contract covers preventive and corrective maintenance, refitting services and integrated support for spare-parts supply, as well as technical documentation and consulting.

In the second part of the day, participants headed to the medina, Marrakesh’s ‘old town’, where they enjoyed team-building activities, underlining the Yachtmaster event’s focus on synergy and relationships.

benettiyachts.com

Azimut Fly 72 earns innovation award

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Azimut Fly 72 earns innovation award

February 18, 2025
12:32 pm

Designed by Alberto Mancini and Fabio Fantolino, Azimut’s second-biggest Fly model has been honoured at the Miami Innovation Awards.

The Fly 72 features exterior design by Alberto Mancini

Azimut’s Fly 72 (click for Review) won the Cabin Cruisers, Motor Yachts, Trawlers category in the 2025 edition of the Miami Innovation Awards. The awards are organised by the US-based National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Boating Writers International (BWI), and were held during February’s Miami International Boat Show.

The Miami Innovation Awards recognise shipyards and suppliers that introduce original and innovative products to the market. The jury, composed of seven BWI members who personally test products throughout the year, selected Azimut’s Fly 72 as a winner for multiple reasons.

“Pulling from fresh interior styling trends, the Azimut Fly 72 offers beautiful, functional spaces onboard that have been totally redesigned, from fluid lines, unique saloon and galley material selections, and well-thought-out accommodation spaces,” the jury stated. “The flybridge and bow are two spaces you’ll want to spend a lot of time.”

The Fly 72 is Azimut’s second-biggest Fly model

The second-biggest model in Azimut’s Fly Series of flybridge motoryachts, the Fly 72 features exterior lines by Alberto Mancini and interiors by architect and designer Fabio Fantolino, and had its world premiere at the 2023 Cannes Yachting Festival.

Mancini has designed most of Azimut’s current S, Fly, Grande (superyacht) and Seadeck models, starting with the S10 and S8 sport fly models that debuted in 2019. The Fly 72 marked Fantolino’s yacht-design debut, after the Italian built his reputation in residences and hospitality.

Founded in 1969 by the late Paolo Vitelli and part of the Azimut-Benetti Group, Azimut produces models from 42-144ft across seven series: Verve, Atlantis, Magellano, Fly, S, Grande and Seadeck. The brand builds in five production facilities in Italy (Avigliana, Fano, Viareggio, Savona and Varazze) and one in Brazil (Itajai), and has an international dealer network spanning 80 countries.

azimutyachts.com

Sunreef Ultima debuts in Dubai

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Sunreef Ultima debuts in Dubai

February 18, 2025
12:19 pm

Built in Sunreef’s UAE shipyard, the first Ultima 55 powercat is being used for the model’s world premiere at the Dubai International Boat Show.

The first Ultima 55 exits its production hall at Sunreef’s Ras Al Khaimah facility

Sunreef Yachts’ Ultima 55 will have its global debut at the 31^st Dubai International Boat Show, which is being held from February 19-23 at Dubai Harbour, the event’s host venue since 2022. Sunreef’s display at the Middle East’s biggest boat show also includes an 80 Sunreef Power and a solar-electric 80 Sunreef Power Eco showing at Booth MD-25.

However, the catamaran builder’s smallest model at Dubai Harbour could garner much of the attention, as the 55-footer is the first model from the Ultima range of power catamarans – and the first boat to be completed at Sunreef’s UAE production facility.

The first Ultima 55 embarked on sea trials in mid-February after leaving Sunreef’s shipyard in Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost of the UAE’s seven emirates. The coupe-style powercat has a beam of 18ft 4in and features an open aft deck with two sunpads and fold-down sides. The lower deck can include two or three double cabins plus a single cabin for either a guest or crew.

The Sunreef Ultima 55 heads for sea trials

Sunreef was founded by Francis Lapp in Poland in 2002 and has two shipyards in the north-coast city of Gdansk. It acquired its first overseas shipyard by signing a cooperation agreement with Ras Al Khaimah Maritime City and securing a 65,000sqm land reserve, where it developed facilities and began production in 2023.

In March 2024, Sunreef hosted the shipyard’s official opening, with guests of honour including His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, and Lech Wałęsa, the former Polish President and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate.

To date, the facility has been dedicated to production of the Ultima series of powercats, which include the 44, 55, 66, 77, 88 and 111 models.

sunreef-yachts.com

Unveiling of Veya Yachts marks new chapter in thoughtful design

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Unveiling of Veya Yachts marks new chapter in thoughtful design

February 13, 2025
3:28 pm

Currently being crafted by Fountaine Pajot and Couach Catamarans, the Veya 53 reimagines life at sea – as Miami International Boat Show 2025 visitors can discover.

Veya is a collaboration between Fountaine Pajot and Couach Catamarans

Fountaine Pajot and Couach Catamarans are currently introducing Veya Yachts, a joint venture born from shared expertise and a commitment to simplifying life at sea at the Fountaine Pajot stand at the Miami International Boat Show 2025, which opened yesterday and is on until February 16.

Under the co-guidance of Fountaine Pajot Deputy CEO Romain Motteau, and Asia veteran Brand Director Yvan Eymieu – now Managing Director of Veya, the venture has debuted its inaugural model: the Veya 53, a power catamaran designed to blend refined simplicity with purposeful innovation.

Veya is committed to simplifying life at sea, starting with the Veya 53

Formerly known as Code 07, the Veya 53 embodies a new era of intuitive engineering and timeless elegance, crafted for those who value calm over complexity.

Partnership rooted in purpose

Veya Yachts unites Fountaine Pajot’s visionary design ethos with Couach’s precision craftsmanship, creating catamarans that prioritise spaciousness, reliability, and effortless journeys. This collaboration brings a fresh perspective to yachting, redefining every moment on the water.

Veya aims to redefine the experience at sea and bring freedom on the water

Every detail of the Veya 53 reflects a commitment to thoughtful solutions, from its uncluttered layouts to innovations that quietly enhance life aboard. “With the Veya 53, we are redefining the experience at sea by combining elegance and practicality,” said Managing Director Yvan Eymieu. “Every detail has a purpose, bringing more comfort, simplicity, and freedom on the water. The horizon is always within reach – that’s the Veya philosophy.”

The Veya 53 offers uncluttered layouts and innovations that enhance life aboard

This launch marks the first step in Veya Yachts’ mission to create vessels that inspire exploration while grounding guests in tranquillity. Future models will build on this foundation, offering the same balance of sophistication and ease.

A New Standard, Quietly Set

“Veya Yachts avoids bold claims,” Eymieu said. “Instead, we let our craftsmanship speak: through catamarans engineered to endure, spaces designed to breathe, and journeys that feel effortlessly yours. We’re not redefining luxury – we’re reimagining what it means to truly belong at sea.”

The owner’s cabin of the Veya 53

Ahead of the VEYA 53’s official launch in 2026, the world premiere of the Veya Yachts’ brand at the Miami International Boat Show (February 12-16) let visitors engage with the team, discover the brand philosophy, place orders, preview upcoming models, and experience the future of maritime excellence through exhibits and detailed presentations showcasing the uniqueness of Veya.

veya-yachts.com

Dubai International Boat Show 2025 set for February 19-23, 2025

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Dubai International Boat Show 2025 set for February 19-23, 2025

February 13, 2025
3:11 pm

The 31st edition of DIBS, the largest marine and luxury lifestyle event in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is set to include a number of debut yachts from a cast of international brands from February 19-23.
Words: Andrew Dembina Photos: DIBS/DWTC and shipyards

DIBS will, once again, be enjoying a prominent location at Dubai Harbour for the 2025 edition

From next Wednesday, Dubai Harbour is bound to captivate visitors, just as DIBS has done in its 30 previous incarnations of this show, with more than 30,000 visitors expected, organisers said a week before it starts.

With a rise of 12.28 per cent in yachts visiting the UAE in the 2023/2024 season, DIBS underscores Dubai’s commitment to accelerating yacht tourism and furthering the city’s position as a top global destination for maritime activities.

An impressive in-water display of luxury yachts that includes quite a number of superyachts, from producers in the Gulf and from other corners of the globe is lined up, with full details yet to be released at the time of this article.

The yacht presentations and water sports demonstrations will be joined by onshore exhibits of cutting-edge marine technology, yachting toys and lifestyle displays that will include – as ever – some outstanding supercars, alongside purveyors of luxury goods and travel.

Visitors inspecting last year’s Azimut Yachts’ display – the Italian yachts are present again in 2025

Show visitors have the chance to connect directly with industry experts shaping the future of maritime innovation, with over 1,000 exhibitors taking part. Exhibition stands will include the presence of media partner Yacht Style (stand 105), alongside marina, charter and related services representatives.

“This year, we are introducing new avenues to expand opportunities for our audience – from a dedicated brokerage section, where buyers can explore a premium selection of pre-owned yachts through expert intermediaries, to an Innovation Zone designed to empower SMEs driving the future of marine technology,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre. “As the region’s leading platform for the yachting and maritime sector, DIBS remains at the forefront of innovation, investment, and industry collaboration.”

On February 18, the day before DIBS commences, the Annual Leisure Yachting Conference sets the stage for new standards and evolving expectations in the industry. Across design, technology, and destination influence, this year’s sessions reflect the unwritten codes shaping the next phase of yachting. Themes will include sustainability mandates, digital resilience and experiential ownership, every topic is linked by a drive to rewrite the rules of luxury at sea.

Mohammed Alshaali, Chairman of Emirati yacht manufacturer Gulf Craft said: “The Dubai International Boat Show has always been more than an exhibition for Gulf Craft – it is a celebration of the incredible journey Dubai has taken to become a global marine and superyacht hub.”

Presenting yachts as a key participant at DIBS since the show’s inception, Gulf Craft will show an unprecedented number of new launches: 11 new boats among its 18 vessels on display. Highlights include the anticipated Majesty 100 Terrace. While it was revealed at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September, DIBS marks the vessel’s international premiere. This delivery from Majesty is one of three new launches for the Gulf Craft line. Gulf Craft’s Nomad Yachts line will feature the 30m tri-deck Nomad 101, while the SilverCat series will introduce new models focused on space and versatility. The shipyard will also present a refreshed leisure line – a monohull collection that emphasises enhanced functionality and design.

Part of Gulf Craft’s DIBS 2024 fleet; this year the UAE yacht builder is to display 18 models. Photo: Gulf Craft

Sunreef, the Poland-founded catamaran builder, is showing its 80 Sunreef Power and solar-electric 80 Sunreef Power Eco.

Sanlorenzo brings four models: the SL90A – asymmetry applied to a yacht under 30m; the SD96, the semi-displacement line that blends classic and innovative solutions; the SX88 and SX112, from the crossover line that fuses classic flybridge and new explorer design.

Italy’s Ferretti Group showcases three of its brands. There is a Middle-East premiere of the wallytender48 from Wally; a Riva 82’ Diva; and a Ferretti Yachts 860.

Also from Italy, Azimut Yachts show four models. From the Flybridge line, the Fly 53, Fly 58 and Fly 68 will be shown; as will the second model from the Seadeck line, the new S7.

Yacht Vision GCC, representing Absolute Yachts, will display an Absolute Navetta 52.

Overmarine Group will be exhibitor of the 109ft Mangusta GranSport 33 on display in the water. And a blue-hulled Italian 35ft 5in Apreamare Gozzo 35 is to be displayed by local dealer Yachts Expert.

UK shipyard Princess Yachts will exhibit a show debut of the Y80 in its display, which made its world premiere at Cannes Yachting Festival in 2023, alongside X80, Y72, F55 and Princess V40.

Another UK builder, Sunseeker, presents its market debut of the Superhawk 55 luxury dayboat; the 74 Sport Yacht; and the 88 Yacht.

Some shipyards will represent their yachts at stands. Italian superyacht builder Benetti will show scale models of Benetti yachts, including B.Loft, with its loft-style interiors; and Project Life, an in-build 85m megayacht designed for versatile use, with plenty of social entertainment areas and adaptable gathering spaces on each deck.

Pearl Yachts, the UK builder, is participating through the new Pearl Gulf, with virtual reality viewings offered of the flagship Pearl 95; the Pearl 82; the Pearl 72; and this year’s new Pearl 63.

Five supercar Middle East show debuts are expected this year, from Koenigsegg, Pagani, Bugatti, Lamborghini and Mclaren

Besides the motoring and travel concierge aspects of lifestyle exhibits, expect property and fashion also to be displayed.

And for on-the-spot lifestyle attractions, culinary experiences will be on offer and VIP food and drink areas will also be available, notably at Nikki Beach.

Book tickets here.

boatshowdubai.com

Excess hosting Factory Tour in March

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Excess hosting Factory Tour in March

February 12, 2025
6:07 pm

Visitors can enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the Excess shipyard in France, and tour the brand’s smallest and largest sailing catamarans.

This year’s Factory Tour includes Excess 14 viewings

Excess Catamarans is hosting its annual Factory Tour from 10am-4pm on March 22, with clients and prospects able to request an invitation to the event by contacting their local dealer. Part of the Beneteau Group, the Excess factory is situated at Le Poiré-sur-Vie shipyard in the Vendée region in western France. Nearby cities include Nantes to the north and La Rochelle to the south.

Visitors can learn about construction methods

Excess created the Factory Tour “to reveal what goes on behind the scenes in the building of our catamarans”, so visitors can “discover the fascinating world of our production processes, from moulding to assembly, right through to our quality-control methods and pool testing”.

Pool testing at Le Poiré-sur-Vie shipyard

This year’s event will also offer visitors the chance to tour the Excess 11 and Excess 14. The 37ft Excess 11 is currently the smallest model in the builder’s range, while the Excess 14 is currently the largest model in the series. During the day, visitors can also meet Excess staff, partners and dealers from around the globe.

Guests can network with Excess staff and partner companies

Thibaut De Montvalon, Director of Excess, said: “The image that comes to mind is that the Excess Lab is the keyhole where you catch a glimpse of part of the boat construction, and the Factory Tour is about stepping through the door.”

excess-catamarans.com

Riva reveals Iseo Super

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Riva reveals Iseo Super

February 12, 2025
3:27 pm

The Italian shipyard has updated its smallest model, having already produced an electric version of the 27ft runabout.

Iseo Super can top 40 knots with 355hp Volvo Penta V8 petrol engines

A year after debuting the production version of the El-Iseo electric boat at Boot Düsseldorf, Riva’s world premiere at the 2025 show was the Iseo Super, an evolution of the brand’s original 27ft runabout launched in 2011 and still the smallest boat in the entire Ferretti Group portfolio.

Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta of Officina Italiana Design, the exclusive designer of all Riva yachts, penned the Iseo Super in collaboration with Ferretti Group’s Strategic Product Committee chaired by Piero Ferrari and its Engineering Department.

The 27ft runabout has an 8ft-plus beam

Exterior features include high-gloss striped mahogany – treated with 24 coats of varnish – on the deck and stern platform, steel detailing, an aquamarine waterline, plus a new hull colour, Vulcan Grey, which joins the brand’s exclusive palette.

Significant changes include a completely new windscreen, which features the typical counter-curvature that has become one of the most recognisable features of Riva boats.

The helm includes either a Volvo Penta chart plotter or Böning screen

The helm station is available with a 9in Volvo Penta chart plotter or 12in Böning screen in a central position between the analogue helm to starboard and port-side storage compartment, which includes a USB socket, an SD reader and the sound-system control panel. A drawer fridge is under the storage compartment, while a large locker for the fenders is beneath the plotter.

The new cockpit has a larger dinette featuring an elegant U-shaped sofa, upholstered in waterproof Sky fabric coordinated with the chosen hull colour. The sofa is integrated with an electric up-down table to starboard that can be hidden under the cushions when not in use, while the port side includes more storage.

The U-shaped sofa includes a hidden pop-up table

Aft of the sofa is the stowable, hand-operated bimini top. The sunpad in the stern – which covers the engine room – is upholstered in the same Sky fabric as the dinette cushions.

Iseo Super retains a traditional sterndrive propulsion system and is fitted with a hydraulic gearbox that reduces the engine sound by eliminating noisy gear changes. Standard propulsion includes a 300hp Volvo Penta D4 inboard diesel engine paired with Volvo Penta’s Aquamatic DPI Duoprop sterndrive, giving a top speed of 38 knots and a cruising speed of 33 knots, based on preliminary data.

The aft sunpad covers the engine space

Engine options include twin 305hp or 355hp Volvo Penta V8 petrol engines – paired with the Aquamatic DPS Duoprop sterndrive – for a top speed of 38 knots and 41 knots respectively. For stabilisation underway, the Iseo Super has auto-trim control for the sterndrive engine and a Zipwake interceptor for trim correction.

Options with the Riva Iseo Super include an automotive-inspired boat cover, which has a waterproof external layer to protect against the weather and a breathable wool inner layer that absorbs moisture.

riva-yacht.com

ferrettigroupasiapacific.com

Prestige M48 and X60 displayed in Thailand

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Prestige M48 and X60 displayed in Thailand

February 12, 2025
3:09 pm

Displayed by regional dealer Asia Yachting, the French builder’s first M-Line multihull made its Thailand debut alongside the second-biggest X-Line model.

Prestige M48 (left) and X60 at Phuket Boat Lagoon

Asia Yachting proudly presented Prestige’s M48 and X60 at a private viewing in Thailand, with both models on show at Phuket Boat Lagoon over a February weekend. The regional dealer declared the two open days “a tremendous success”, with over 80 guests attending.

The M48 multihull showed in Thailand for the first time

The Prestige M48 was making its Thailand debut, after the multihull motoryacht had appeared along with the M8 (65ft) at the Hong Kong International Boat Show at the end of 2024. The M48 was the first model in the French builder’s M-Line of multihulls and “her layout and design draw praise for being able to provide spaciousness without compromising on luxury”, according to Asia Yachting.

The Prestige X60 features only one side deck, creating more interior room

Three weeks earlier, the X60 had earlier appeared at the Thailand International Boat Show at Phuket Yacht Haven. At Phuket Boat Lagoon, the second-biggest model in Prestige’s groundbreaking X-Line made a strong impact on visitors. “With its sleek and modern aesthetics, the guests were impressed by the extra-wide saloon layout, giving it more room for social events,” Asia Yachting stated.

Asia Yachting hosts guests visiting the M48

The two yachts remain in Phuket, with Asia Yachting able to arrange private viewings.

prestige-yachts.com

asiayachting.net

Nimbus flagship wins European award

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Nimbus flagship wins European award

February 11, 2025
2:57 pm

The Swedish brand’s biggest motoryacht has enjoyed acclaim at one of Europe’s most prestigious powerboat awards.

The Nimbus 495 Flybridge has an overall length of 49ft 7in

The Nimbus 495 Flybridge was named European Powerboat of the Year in the ‘Up to 18m’ category, meaning the 49ft 7in model triumphed over competitor models up to 59ft long. The jury for the award comprised representatives of eight of the leading European powerboat magazines.

Nimbus, whose dealers in Asia include Asiamarine, stated that “the judges highlighted the meticulous attention to detail in the design of the Nimbus 495, including its high-quality craftsmanship, efficient use of space, and strong emphasis on safety and stability at sea”. The Swedish brand said the boat’s impressive fuel efficiency and environmentally conscious construction also contributed to the award.

The swim platform and enclosable cockpit

“We are very happy and grateful that the Nimbus 495 Flybridge has received this international award,” said Joacim Gustavsson, Head of Design at Nimbus Group, which includes Alukin, Aquador, EdgeWater, Falcon and Paragon. “With the 495 Fly, we want to magnify the coupé concept, while further consolidating Nimbus’s heritage from earlier and existing coupé models.”

Mats Jacobsson, Nimbus Group’s Technical Director, added: “This award is proof that our in-house design team can create a yacht in this world class from concept to production, and that our fantastic boat builders in the Nimbus factories can deliver the highest quality.”

The flybridge can be covered by a bimini

The 495 Flybridge is part of the builder’s Coupé Cruisers range, although Nimbus is best known in Asia for its enclosed Commuter, semi-enclosed Weekender and open Tender versions of the 8, 9 and 11 motorboat lines.

With an overall length of almost 50ft and a beam of 14ft 9in, the 495 Flybridge is a huge step up from the 405 Flybridge – currently the second-biggest model in the Nimbus portfolio – and makes it a direct competitor of models from some of the leading luxury motoryacht builders in Italy, UK and France.

Jonas Göthberg, Commercial Director of Nimbus, said: “We are extremely proud that our first entrance in this category dominated by big Mediterranean shipyards has won this prestigious award. The 495 Flybridge is a floating home, an ‘Island of its own’ that is both comfortable and safe, allowing you to feel embraced. It’s the perfect boat for extended voyages and easy to handle.”

The flexible dining area in the saloon

“The European Powerboat of the Year award is a prestigious honour that celebrates excellence in the powerboat industry, and the Nimbus 495 Flybridge’s win solidifies its place as a leader in the luxury motorboat segment.”

nimbusboats.com

asiamarine.com