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Simpson Marine, Bitcashier, cryptocurrency, blockchain technology, Richard Allen, Giles Whitby-Smith, Bitcoin, BTC, Ethereum, ETH

Simpson Marine partners with Bitcashier

News / yachtstyle2020

Simpson Marine partners with Bitcashier

August 2, 2023
9:42 pm

Asia’s largest yacht dealer is working with Bitcashier to enable cryptocurrency payment for yachts and charters.

Simpson Marine

Simpson Marine has announced a partnership with Bitcashier, an innovative cryptocurrency payment platform that can be used for yacht sales and charters. Founded in 2019 and already working with many other yacht brokerage firms, Bitcashier leverages the benefits of digital currencies to streamline transactions with no volatility of price.

By incorporating blockchain technology and catering to the growing demand for digital transactions, Bitcashier ensures secure, efficient, user-friendly and transparent payment processing for both buyers and sellers in the yachting sector.

Richard Allen, Group General Manager at Simpson Marine, said: “We are excited to join forces with Bitcashier and embrace the future of cryptocurrency payments in the yachting industry. This collaboration allows us to offer our clients greater flexibility and convenience, expanding their options for purchasing or chartering a yacht. By being Bitcashier’s first partner in the Asia yachting scene, we are elevating the experience for our clients and staying at the forefront of innovation in our industry.”

Bitcashier’s merchant tools will allow the implementation of crypto payments on the Simpson Marine website. Once a yacht has been selected for purchase, customers will be presented with a list of cryptocurrencies from the range of options supported by Bitcashier, including Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH).

Upon confirming the purchase or charter agreement, the client initiates the payment through Bitcashier’s secure platform. The platform calculates the cryptocurrency exchange rate in real-time and generates a unique payment address for the transaction. Once the payment is verified, Simpson Marine processes the transaction, finalising the sale or charter and the client can then enjoy their newly acquired yacht or charter experience.

Cryptocurrency payments eliminate barriers associated with traditional banking systems, enabling international clients to engage in yacht sales and charters without the limitations of traditional currencies.

Giles Whitby-Smith, CEO of Bitcashier, said: “We are delighted to be chosen as the preferred cryptocurrency solutions partner for Simpson Marine, a highly respected, well-established company with deep roots in the marine industry in Asia Pacific.

“Bitcashier has a growing presence in Asia Pacific and is looking forward to providing the cryptocurrency transactional services to enable Simpson Marine clients to use crypto to buy and charter yachts and services.”

www.simpsonmarine.com

Sanlorenzo to debut SX100 at Cannes

News / yachtstyle2020

Sanlorenzo to debut SX100 at Cannes

August 2, 2023
9:27 pm

The Italian shipyard is staging the world premiere of the SX100 at the Cannes Yachting Festival ahead of a unit’s delivery to Southeast Asia in early 2024.

Sanlorenzo’s display at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival (September 12-17) will include the world premiere of the SX100, which joins a range including the SX76, SX88 and SX112. A unit of the SX100 was sold to Southeast Asia shortly after her announcement at the Cannes show last September and is expected to be delivered in April 2024.

In 2022, the-then entire SX range – SX76, SX88 and SX112 – was delivered to Hong Kong in early summer, while new units of the SX76 and SX88 are due in other Asian markets later this year.

Nick Stratton, Sanlorenzo Asia Sales Manager, said: “It’s rewarding to witness the remarkable growth of the SX range and its rapid expansion in Asia.

“Sanlorenzo’s low production numbers ensure unique builds and ample customisation options – this strongly appeals to owners seeking to purchase a special yacht that reflects their own tastes and living philosophy. This new SX100 is no different and is sure to be another stunning bespoke Sanlorenzo build.”

www.sanlorenzoyacht.com

Custom Line launches second unit of flagship

News / yachtstyle2020

Custom Line launches second unit of flagship

August 2, 2023
9:10 pm

The Italian builder has launched the second hull of its flagship 140’ planing yacht at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona.

Custom Line has launched hull two of its 140’, after hull one was used for the model’s world premiere at last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival. Built for an owner based in the AMAS region, the second unit was launched in a ceremony attended by many of the Custom Line workforce.

Featuring a sporty exterior design, an overall length of 42.6m and a beam of 8.5m, the Custom Line 140’ is a design collaboration between Francesco Paszkowski Design and Ferretti Group Engineering Department, with the Custom Line Atelier working with the client on the interior design.

The furnishings and décor were designed according to the owner’s wishes and in collaboration with renowned design brands, making use of sophisticated, high-end materials. They include the Volga Blue ultramarine flake granite, a wide variety of marbles such as polished Matt Sahara Noir, polished Orobico and Calacatta Gold, as well as carbon-finish American Walnut.

www.customline-yacht.com

www.ferrettigroupasiapacific.com

NewGulf Craft superyachts on show

News / yachtstyle2020

New Gulf Craft superyachts on show

August 2, 2023
2:48 am

The UAE builder is displaying its new Nomad 101 and Majesty 111 at international boat shows from August through October.

Nomad 101

Gulf Craft’s new Nomad 101 will be on display at the the Sydney International Boat Show from August 3-6, having had a world premiere at this year’s Dubai International Boat Show in March.

The UAE builder has also confirmed that the new Majesty 111 – which also debuted at this year’s Dubai show – will be at the Cannes Yachting Festival (September 12-17) and Monaco Yacht Show (September 27-30). It then heads across the Atlantic for its US debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (October 27-30).

Two new units of the Majesty 100, Gulf Craft’s most popular Superyacht model, also left the UAE shipyard in July.

Majesty 111

Gulf Craft announced that its Umm Al Quwain shipyard is operating at full capacity and global order book remains full. Over the last five years, the builder has significantly expanded its global market reach with a network spanning Europe, the US, Middle East, Africa, Asia and the Pacific.

Mohammed Alshaali, co-founder and Chairman of Gulf Craft, said: “Our ongoing commitment to ‘Legacy in Motion’ and the ‘Global Expansion’ pillars have been instrumental in our exponential growth and success, which solidified Gulf Craft’s reputation as a trailblazer in the industry.

“As we projected at the beginning of this year, 2023 has proven to be a strong year, with the highest revenue of any previous year in the company’s history.”

www.gulfcraftinc.com

Galeon launches 450 HTC cruiser

News / yachtstyle2020

Galeon launches 450 HTC cruiser

August 1, 2023
3:00 pm

The Polish builder extends its hard top coupe line with the 450 HTC, which features a full-beam hydraulic platform, drop-down sides, two retractable roofs and two or three cabins.

Galeon, whose dealers in Asia include Asiamarine, has launched the 450 HTC sports cruiser, which is set to premiere at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show from October 25-29 through MarineMax, the Polish builder’s US distributor. The yacht has an overall length of 45ft 9in (14m), a beam of 13ft 8in (4.2m) and a draft of 4ft 3in (1.3m).

Bob Burke, Galeon’s Brand Manager for the Americas, said: “We’re ecstatic for the highly anticipated launch of the Galeon 450 HTC. Working in collaboration with designer Tony Castro, we’ve once again shattered conventions with this exhilarating and innovative new model.

“Building upon the success of the 410 HTC, the 450 HTC represents the pinnacle of our design expertise, a true testament to the fusion of customer feedback and our commitment to continuous innovation.”

Transformer features include a hydraulic full-beam aft platform that can be lowered into the water while remaining accessible by integrated starboard steps, while the platform can also be used for sunbathing or for the chef to cook at the flip-up, stern-facing grill aft of the cockpit.

The cockpit is covered by a retractable sunroof and features an L-shaped sofa to starboard and fold-down bulwarks on both sides, which expand the yacht’s beam by 7ft to 20ft 8in (6.35m). Accessed by two side decks, the foredeck offers an integrated sun pad with a fold-up backrest and small convertible sofa forward.

Inside, the saloon includes storage and a fixed sofa to port and a C-shaped dinette to starboard, where the aft backrest can fold forward to allow guests to face the cockpit when the sliding doors are open.

Forward and up two steps are the galley to port and bench-seat helm station with a door to the starboard side deck, while the sunroof can slide aft to create an open-air atmosphere. Below is an en-suite cabin in the bow with scissor berths, while midships is either a full-beam master suite or two guest cabins sharing a day head to port. A third option is a full-beam master, VIP in the bow and a bunk cabin to port.

“This remarkable vessel can be configured as a two or three cabin version, boasting our ever-popular Beach Mode innovation, a summer kitchen, retractable cockpit shade, sunroof over the lower helm, and a helm door, all while carrying the sporty yacht profile of a much larger cruiser,” Burke said.

“At Galeon, we continue to set new benchmarks in our size category with fresh and exciting models each year, and the 450 HTC is no exception.”

In February this year, Galeon staged the global debuts of the 440 Fly and 560 Fly at the Miami International Boat Show, while new models launched last year included the 375 GTO and flagship 800 Fly. Galeon’s ranges comprise GTO (grand touring outboards), HTS (hard top sedan), HTC (hard top coupe), Sky (skydeck) and Fly (flybridge).

www.galeon.pl

www.asiamarine.com

Sunseeker set for Sydney, Southampton, Monaco

News / yachtstyle2020

Sunseeker set for Sydney, Southampton, Monaco

August 1, 2023
3:28 am

The British builder announces two yachts for Sydney and nine for Southampton, plus three superyachts for Monaco.

Sunseeker 76 Yacht

Sunseeker East Coast Australia will showcase newly delivered Manhattan 55 and 76 Yacht models at this year’s 54^th Sydney International Boat Show from August 3-6. The two flybridge motor yachts are located at Marina M 157.

Brad Rodgers, Director at Sunseeker East Coast Australia, said: “We’re excited to showcase two exceptional Sunseeker yachts, built to a specification with the Australia market in mind. At this year’s Sydney International Boat Show, our guests can enjoy a luxury floating VIP lounge to relax and discuss their yachting requirements with our expert team.”

Sunseeker Superhawk 55

Sunseeker then has a busy September, starting with the Cannes Yachting Festival (September 12-17), where it will exhibit nine yachts (click for article) including a ‘Midnight Grey’ edition of the 100 Yacht along with the Superhawk 55 and 75 Sport Yacht that debuted at Boot Dusseldorf in January.

The Poole shipyard will have a similar nine-model showcase at the 54^th Southampton International Boat Show (September 15-24), where it will stage the show debuts of the Superhawk 55 and 75 Sport Yacht. Traditionally one of the biggest exhibitors at Mayflower Park, Sunseeker will also display a Manhattan 55, Predator 65, 65 Sport Yacht, Manhattan 68, 76 Yacht, 88 Yacht and 90 Ocean.

Sunseeker 75 Sport Yacht

Sean Robertson, Sales and Marketing Director at Sunseeker International, said: “We return this September to Southampton for the 54^th edition of the show with a fantastic line-up including two of our most recent launches – the spectacular Superhawk 55 and 75 Sport Yacht. We have models from across our range on display across the 10-day event, offering a fantastic showcase for our guests.”

Sunseeker has also announced that it will exhibit the 90 Ocean, 95 Yacht and 100 Yacht at the superyacht-focused Monaco Yacht Show (September 27-30), where the shipyard will be represented by its distributor, Sunseeker London Group.

Sunseeker 100 Yacht

“We’re delighted to welcome our clients, once again, to Monaco to see our luxury range of yachts and superyachts,” Robertson said. “Sunseeker’s presence at this first-rate event is incredibly exciting. It’s important for us to not only showcase the larger models in our range but meet clientele in the heart of Monaco for what promises to be another world-class superyacht exhibition.”

www.sunseeker.com

http://www.nextwaveyachting.com

Tried & Tested in Thailand: iAqua Sea Scooters, Part 2

News / yachtstyle2020

Tried & Tested in Thailand: iAqua Sea Scooters, Part 2

August 1, 2023
2:49 am

Concluding a two-part article on iAqua’s sea scooters, Yachting Pages’ Tried & Tested series evaluates the AquaDart Pro models in Phuket and declares the brand’s overall winner.

Note: To read Part 1 (AquaDart Nano range), click here.

Range: AquaDart Pro

AquaDart Pro is a cutting-edge, easy-to-use series of water scooters that has been created by iAqua’s design experts with swimmers, divers, adrenaline junkies and water sport lovers in mind. Priced from US$7,490-15,490, the models include the 680 Light, 680 Explorer, 720 Quest, 720 Max and 770 Xtreme, each available in a range of stylish colours.

Collectively, the Pro range meets a variety of different needs and abilities. Reaching powerful speeds of up to 23kmh overwater and 25kmh underwater, with thrust up to a whopping 770 Newtons (depending on the model), the performance is unrivalled.

The speed and endurance in this range means users can go further for longer, taking advantage of all the features it has to offer while using only one tank of air (if used when scuba diving). When used for scuba diving, weight belts can be added to counteract the buoyancy.

This powerful aqua scooter is also packed with safety features and can be set to a maximum depth and maximum speed, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride for all abilities.

Bright underwater lights are also a feature of the Pro range, allowing users to explore the depths of the ocean (up to 45m deep depending on the model) and the exciting sea life within it. The underwater lights are easy to toggle on/off and allow for a deeper exploration, no matter how dark it may appear.

With up to two hours of run time at cruising speed, the Pro can be fully charged and ready to enjoy again in no more than two hours. So, what did the testers say about the Pro range? “Very strong, sturdy and durable” … “Extremely fun” … “Very manoeuvrable for its size”… “An underwater Tesla!” … “Quite heavy” – child tester.

AquaDart Pro 680 Light

Despite being the entry-level water scooter of the AquaDart Pro range, the Pro 680 Light still has a lot of bang for its buck. Perfect for those starting to explore water toys and dive scooters, this model still reaches top speeds of up to 15kmh and has a thrust of up to 680 Newtons. Available in Artic White and Baltic Gray, it’s suitable for both first-time users and scuba divers.

Fun to ride and reaching depths of up to 40m, our testers thought the Pro 680 Light had just the right amount of speed. As the cheapest of the AquaDart Pro range, this model is an excellent choice for rental companies for onboard use.

AquaDart Pro 680 Explorer

Also available in Artic White and Baltic Gray, the Pro 680 Explorer delivers a similar performance to the Pro 680 Light, but packs a bigger punch with its endurance. It boasts a maximum operating time of 140 minutes and is great for those wanting to explore a little further and for a little longer.

Rating highly for its battery and impressive operating time, the Pro 680 Explorer delivered a fun experience for testers both with and without scuba diving equipment. Awarded ‘Best for Scuba Diving’, it has the right balance for slow scuba diving exploration, yet can still thrill the free-divers. It’s recommended that an iAqua buoyancy belt is used as it contains a knife, torch and pouches that add weight and counteract the toy’s positive buoyancy.

It proved stable and secure for users enjoying the scooter without equipment, regardless of experience. However, one trained scuba diving tester noted that it may not be suitable for beginner divers without a few lessons first.

Once mastered, it adds a whole new dimension to diving and offers a range of advantages for users, such as being able to go against the current without getting tired and being able to swim alongside mantas, dolphins and shoals of fish.

AquaDart Pro 720 Quest

The AquaDart Pro 720 Quest is also a strong contender, and rightly so. Available in a large selection of stylish colours, such as Flame Red and Bahamas Blue, this model can reach a top speed of 21kmh and boasts six power levels of up to 4.5kW.

With an operating time of up to 130 minutes and a thrust of 720 Newtons, it is a powerful and impressive dive scooter. This model also comes with the AquaDart Fast Charger.

Although it received mixed reviews about its weight, the testers (including the child tester) still found it to be sturdy and easy to control. With more power than other AquaDart Pro models, it proved to be great fun for zooming around.

AquaDart Pro 720 Max

For those wanting to explore the ocean a little deeper, the AquaDart Pro 720 Max is more than equipped. It can reach depths of up to a whopping 45m, allowing for a thorough exploration of the ocean and all it has to offer.

With highly powered 1700 Lumen Twin LED lights, even the darkest areas can be discovered. This model comes with the AquaDart Fast Charger and is available in a larger variety of colours, with nine options ranging from Lightening Yellow to Lizard Green.

Rating highly for speed and performance, the Pro 720 Max proved to be a hit with our testers. Although heavier than the Nano models, testers found that the Pro 720 Max was still easy to manoeuvre and quick through the water.

Awarded ‘Best for Yacht Charters’, it delivers just the right amount of speed for an adrenaline pumping experience, but is still easy enough for beginners to control. The addition of the AquaDart Fast Charger allows for quick charging in between uses.

AquaDart Pro 770 Xtreme

The AquaDart Pro 770 Xtreme was created with both thrill seekers and explorers in mind. As the world’s fastest and most powerful sea scooter, it can deliver an impressive thrust of up to 770 Newtons and speeds of up to 25kmh.

Made of carbon-fibre, reducing its weight and increasing the speed, this model can deliver an unforgettable, high-speed experience, as well as meet the needs of those looking to explore the deeper depths of the ocean. This model comes with the AquaDart Fast Charger.

Being the fastest underwater scooter on the market, the Pro 770 Xtreme ticks a lot of boxes when it comes to thrills and performance. Although our testers found it a little overwhelming at first, the strength and sturdiness of the model meant non-athletic users could also enjoy it.

Our testers found the top speed to be incredibly exhilarating, but they did discover that water gets into the nose if not covered when going at full throttle.

According to one of our experienced scuba diving testers, this model should only be used between 10-20 per cent of its maximum power when used for deeper exploration. If used at top speeds, the water pressure could force the mask off and press the purge button on the regulator.

For scuba diving use, a lower power model, such as the AquaDart Pro 680 Explorer, would be more suited and economical. For sheer exhilaration, however, the 770 Extreme is unbeatable.

Recommended Retail Prices*

AquaDart Pro 680 Light US$7,490

AquaDart Pro 680 Explorer US$7,990

AquaDart Pro 720 Quest US$9,490

AquaDart Pro 720 Max US$10,990

AquaDart Pro 770 Xtreme US$15,490

* RRP excludes local sales tax/VAT

Overall Winner: AquaDart Nano 620 Max

Each toy in both the AquaDart Nano (click for article) and AquaDart Pro series rated well with our testers. However, there was one standout product and that was the AquaDart Nano 620 Max. Cheaper than similar underwater scooters on the market, this toy is great value for money. While it’s light and easy to transport, the Nano 620 Max still reaches the same top speeds as the Pro 720 Max, which is impressive for a toy that weighs in at just 22kg. It can also be fully charged in just 50 minutes with the AquaDart Fast Charger.

The Nano 620 Max is unlike anything else currently on the market. With significant speeds and its advantageous size, it’s no surprise this sea scooter has taken the crown. So, what did the testers say about the AquaDart Nano 620 Max? “The battery life is super impressive” … “It was amazing, I felt like a fish!” … “Very easy to use as it’s much lighter and smaller” … “It’s super agile and easy to manoeuvre. I went really close to the rocks without touching them”.
www.iaquawatercraft.com

Superyachts lining up for Monaco Yacht Show

News / yachtstyle2020

Superyachts lining up for Monaco Yacht Show

July 27, 2023
3:07 pm

Two months out from the Monaco Yacht Show, organisers have revealed a strong provisional list of exhibiting superyachts from many of the world’s leading shipyards.

The 2022 Monaco Yacht Show featured 117 superyachts

Almost 90 yachts were confirmed for this year’s Monaco Yacht Show two months ahead of the four-day superyacht spectacle, which will be held from September 27-30. Last year’s show attracted 117 yachts inside Port Hercules and organisers expect a similar figure this year.

The early list of yachts published online by organisers included just under 50 exhibited by shipyards and another 40 or so by brokerage houses, with the latter figure set to increase in the coming months.

The 97m Carinthia VII by Lürssen

As of late July, the line-up is headed by the 97m Lürssen megayacht Carinthia VII and the German builder’s 95m Kismet, the latter exhibited by Cecil Wright & Partners, while fellow brokerage house Edmiston has booked a place for a 90m build.

The 80m Leona by Bilgin – one of three yachts being shown by the Turkish yard – and the 78m O’Rea by Golden Yachts are among new builds, while other 70m-plus yachts include the 83.5m Feadship Savannah, the 75m Kensho by Admiral of The Italian Sea Group, while Fraser has booked a slot for a 70m.

The Amels 60 Entourage is among new builds, while Camper & Nicholsons is displaying four brokerage yachts: the 55m Feadships Kahalani and Sea Huntress, the 52m Amels Were Dreams and a 50m to be confirmed.

Italian builder Benetti is set to show a 65m megayacht and the sixth hull in its B.Now 50M series (click for article), which is also the second in the line to feature the Oasis Deck® option. Sister shipyard Azimut is displaying its 38m flagship Grande Trideck, Grande 36M and Magellano 30M.

Pershing GTX116

Ferretti Group is exhibiting a Pershing 140 (43m), Pershing GTX116 (35m), Custom Line 140’ (43m), Custom Line Navetta 42 (42m) and Riva 130’ Bellissima (40m), while Wally’s wallywhy150 will also show after its world premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival earlier in the month.

Italian builder Sanlorenzo is set to stage the debuts of the 57Steel and X-Space (42m) as well as the SP110 (33m), while the builder’s 47m Lars is being exhibited by Lengers Yachts. Genoa shipyard Tankoa is showing the 50m Grey, the fifth hull of its S501 series.

Gulf Craft Majesty 111

UAE builder Gulf Craft is showing a Majesty 120 (38m) and the new Majesty 111 (34.5m), which had its world premiere at this year’s Dubai International Boat Show (click for article). British builder Sunseeker is showing a 90 Ocean (27m), 95 Yacht (28m) and 100 Yacht (30m).

Sailing yachts includes the world premiere of the Swan 108 (35m) (click for article) and the 39m motorsailer Sakin by Turkey’s Aegean Yacht, while the 46.5m Art Explorer by The Italian Sea Group will also make its world premiere as the world’s largest sailing multihull (click for article).

www.monacoyachtshow.com

Tried & Tested in Thailand: iAqua Sea Scooters, Part 1

News / yachtstyle2020

Tried & Tested in Thailand: iAqua Sea Scooters, Part 1

July 27, 2023
2:32 pm

Yachting Pages’ Tried & Tested series evaluates the AquaDart Nano sea scooters in Phuket, in the first part of a two-part series on iAqua’s sea scooters.

It’s not feasible for yacht owners, captains and engineers to try out a whole range of toys in a real world situation before making a purchasing decision, so we do the hard work for them. In this Tried & Tested, we joined forces with iAqua in Phuket to test its complete range of exhilarating dive scooters.

With over 25 years of design and manufacturing experience, and as a leader in lithium-ion battery safety, iAqua creates high-performance, technologically advanced underwater scooters that can be used with or without scuba diving equipment.

A team of experienced testers (including professional scuba divers) rated and reviewed the AquaDart Nano and AquaDart Pro series in line with useful metrics to help buyers determine which of the eight models is best suited to their requirements.

The following report runs through the pros and cons of each luxury scooter before revealing the overall winner. Without further ado, here are the reviews of Tried & Tested with iAqua.

RANGE: AQUADART NANO

Ranging in price from US$5,830-$7,490, the AquaDart Nano series includes the 450 Sport, 520 Explorer and 620 Max. Nano models are 50 per cent lighter than their competitors, 30 per cent smaller than AquaDart Pro models and easily transportable, all without comprising on their excellent performance. Even our child tester was able to lift the Nanos out of the water without help!

The market’s lightest sea scooter, the Nano weighs in at just 22kg due to its patented Dual-Jet technology, allowing it to glide through the water effortlessly and making it easy to store on board and move on/off the yacht or tender. Despite requiring less space, it still delivers outstanding performance, reaching 20kmh in just three seconds.

The Nanos are easy and safe to use, with single-operation control triggers and a bright five-inch display that’s visible even in strong sunlight.

Front and rear lights on all the Nano models allow for risk-free and enjoyable night-time riding, and with a system that intelligently manages the power level, it’s capable of delivering an excellent performance in any depth up to 45m without the fear of being caught out with a flat battery.

It can also be used for scuba diving with weight belts to counteract the buoyancy. With a run time of up to 100 minutes (depending on the model), the Nano models may not operate in the water for as long as the AquaDart Pro range, but make up for it with convenient weight and size. It can be used anytime, anywhere and by anyone.

So, what did the testers say about the AquaDart Nano range? “Much lighter and smaller” … “Very user friendly” … “More buoyant than the Pros” … “The battery life is super impressive” … “Although not as fast as the Pros, I felt much more comfortable moving it around the rocks”.

AquaDart Nano 450 Sport

Available in white, the AquaDart Nano 450 Sport is quick and nimble. Although it might not meet the speed and power levels of the other Nano models, it can be stored away easily and is extremely light when it comes to manoeuvrability. This makes it a great option for those looking for quick, easy fun with family and friends.

For convenient and effortless fun in the water, the AquaDart Nano 450 Sport rated highly with our testers for its smaller size and fun factor. Voted ‘Best for Children and Beginners’, it’s light and agile, and therefore easy for children to manoeuvre in and out of the water.

Its lower speed also reassures parents about their child’s safety, although the speed and depth can be restricted on all iAqua models. This model would not be the first choice for scuba divers looking to dive at night or in murky waters due to the lack of on-board gyroscope.

AquaDart Nano 520 Explorer

With a practical low weight ideal for transporting and storing, the AquaDart Nano 520 Explorer offers a unique experience, delivering a speed of up to 17kmh and a thrust of 520 Newtons. Although it may not be the fastest Nano model, it’s an excellent choice for those looking for a water scooter that boasts range and endurance. This model is available in white, orange, blue and silver.

The AquaDart Nano 520 Explorer was well received by our testers, who found it easy to use and fun to ride. This model is ideal for rental companies and great for those wanting to use it at the beach due to its convenient weight and size, as it’s easy to transport and move in and out of the water.

Although it doesn’t quite reach the speeds of the Nano 620 Max, it’s a great all-rounder. It’s also recommended that an AquaDart Fast Charger is purchased alongside the toy to allow for quick charges in-between uses.

AquaDart Nano 620 Max

The AquaDart Nano 620 Max is all about the speed, with six gears and a thrust of 620 Newtons. While it may not live up to the power of the higher-spec AquaDart Pro models, it certainly delivers an excellent performance considering its light weight.

This model can be fully charged from empty in just 60 minutes (10 minutes faster than the other Nano models) and has an extra five minutes of run time. This speedy dive scooter comes with an AquaDart Fast Charger and is available in white, orange, blue and silver.

Agile and easy to manoeuvre, the AquaDart Nano 620 Max was a hit with our testers due to its light weight and impressive speed. As it can easily be moved into the water, testers could still enjoy the pace and power it has to offer without compromising on convenience.

Awarded ‘Best for Yachts Less Than 20m (65ft)’, the AquaDart Nano 620 Max is small enough to be easily stored on board, but still fast enough to please those who want an adrenaline-pumping experience.

RECOMMENDED RETAIL PRICES*

AquaDart Nano 450 Sport: US$5,830

AquaDart Nano 520 Explorer: US$6,660

AquaDart Nano 620 Max: US$7,490

* RRP excludes local sales tax/VAT

www.iaquawatercraft.com

Note: Part 2 of the article reviews the AquaDart Pro models.

Sunreef begins building in UAE

News / yachtstyle2020

Sunreef begins building in UAE

July 27, 2023
12:52 pm

The Polish catamaran builder has begun operations in its 65,000sqm facility in Ras Al Khaimah, which complements its two Gdansk sites.

Sunreef Yachts, Ras Al Khaimah

Sunreef Yachts builder has shared images of its new waterfront production facility in Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost emirate of the UAE. The facility is still being developed and is based on a 65,000sqm (6.5 hectare) land site.

Now in an early stage of operation, the facility currently employs 120 people and is initially focused on the production of Sunreef’s new Ultima range of hybrid catamarans (click for article).

Sunreef Yachts, Ras Al Khaimah

The RAK facility features state-of-the-art machinery including the latest robotics and will be fully operational in September, according to Sunreef. The new shipyard works closely with the company’s new Dubai office (click for article), which was officially inaugurated during this year’s Dubai International Boat Show in March.

The Polish catamaran builder already has two production facilities in Gdansk on Poland’s north coast, where its original facility in the historic Gdansk Shipyard is complemented by a new, larger facility in Tarcice further east along the Martwa Wisla river.

Sunreef Yachts, Ras Al Khaimah

Together, the two Gdansk shipyards employ 2,400 people and cover 125,000sqm of land. The sites offer a fully equipped infrastructure for in-house yacht manufacturing including offices, an R&D lab, production halls, CNC hall, mast workshop, launching pool, ultramodern paint shop, and workshops for upholstery and carpentry.

www.sunreef-yachts.com

www.sunreef-yachts-eco.com

Caro wins 50th Rolex Fastnet Race

News / yachtstyle2020

Caro wins 50th Rolex Fastnet Race

July 27, 2023
12:36 pm

A record 430 yachts started the bruising 50th edition of the Rolex Fastnet, a 695nm course from Cowes around the Fastnet Rock and on to Cherbourg.

Caro in the 50^th Rolex Fastnet Race; Photo: Rolex / Luca Butto

The Fastnet Challenge Cup is awarded to the overall winner of the Rolex Fastnet Race on time correction. Success is dependent upon possessing the skills and ability to race one’s yacht at its full potential, whatever the weather or sea conditions. In a 695nm race, luck plays a part because the wind is not even across the course all the time.

Remaining focused and committed throughout takes passion, belief and determination. The Swiss entry Caro, a Botin 52, joins an illustrious list of yachts that have won this near 100-year-old race. Max Klink’s crew deserve their place in the history of this fabled contest, worthy winners at the 50th edition, setting themselves apart from the remainder of a highly competitive, record fleet.

Max Klink and the Caro crew; Photo: Rolex / Luca Butto

The Rolex Fastnet Race is always an examination of determination and endurance. The 2023 race has been no exception. Throughout the largest fleet to ever participate, 430 yachts, crews have faced a variety of conditions from the extreme and arduous to the benign and frustrating.

First held in 1925, the Rolex Fastnet Race is organised by the Royal Ocean Racing Club. Rolex has partnered the event since 2001 and the biennial offshore race is one of the foundations of the Swiss Watchmaker’s six-decade-long association with the sport of yachting.

– Quinag

www.rolexfastnetrace.com

Note: For a full review of the 2023 Rolex Fastnet Race, read Issue 73

Tankoa announces three superyacht sales

News / yachtstyle2020

Tankoa announces three superyacht sales

July 27, 2023
12:11 pm

The Italian boutique superyacht builder will display a new 50m yacht at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show, where it will announce the third of three recent sales.

Grey, the fifth S501 by Tankoa

Tankoa will exhibit the 50m Grey at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show, which will be held from September 27-30.

The fifth hull in the Italian shipyard’s Francesco Paszkowski-designed S501 series, Grey was delivered this year and features a spectacular outdoor cinema on the foredeck and interior design by Giorgio Cassetta. The Genoa builder describes Grey as “substantially different from her sister ships and heavily customised to meet her owners’ needs”.

Also at the Monaco Yacht Show, Tankoa will announce a major full-custom project, one of three recent sales that mean the shipyard’s delivery slots are full until 2026.

CGI of T450 designed by Giorgio Cassetta

The other two sales were for yachts being built on spec: the sixth hull of the S501, sold to a European owner, and a T450, for a South American owner, due for delivery in 2024 and 2025 respectively. The two superyachts are among at least eight projects that Tankoa expects to deliver in the next two years (click for article).

With a growing order book, Tankoa recently expanded its footprint by acquiring a site adjacent to its existing facility. The additional area includes around 3,000sqm of covered space that will be dedicated to specialist carpentry, painting, joinery and the production of custom Tankoa-branded pools.

In addition, the shipyard is building new administrative, technical and production offices, while plans include further increasing production capacity by reorganising two existing sheds so three yachts can be built simultaneously.

Tankoa shipyard in Genoa

The hulls and superstructures of its yachts are built in an external facility in La Spezia, but with Tankoa hoping to build four to five units a year, the builder continues to search for an additional production site.

Vincenzo Poerio, CEO of Tankoa, said: “It has been a very busy but rewarding few months for Tankoa with these new sales. They have created more pressure to expand our production capacity and we’re making good progress in that direction with the latest acquisition in Genoa and other opportunities in the pipeline.”

The shipyard’s scheduled next launch is the first T450 designed by Giorgio Cassetta, which could splash towards the end of this year.

www.tankoa.it

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