Reviews

CL Yachts, CLX96, Fort Lauderdale, Boat, Show, Florida, Jozeph Forakis, Sea Activity Vessel, SAV, Martin Lo, Director, Earl Alfaro, Albert Horsmon, Yacht Style, Z-Lift

CL Yachts embraces X factor on CLX96

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

CL Yachts embraces X factor on CLX96

October 14, 2022
10:29 pm

CL Yachts unveiled its pioneering flagship CLX96 in Hong Kong, where the Jozeph Forakis creation showed off its remarkable mix of inventive design and sturdy, working-boat heritage. Words: Guy Nowell. Photos: CL Yachts / Lightseed Studio.

CLX96 can top 25 knots at full load

YACHT STYLE was invited to view the revolutionary CLX96 in Hong Kong, where company principals showed off the superyacht soon after its launch from the shipyard and before its journey to the US for her world premiere at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in Florida.

“We recognised the need for a new category of yacht, designed to appeal to a new generation yet built to the uncompromising standards of our experienced owners. We call it a luxury performance Sea Activity Vessel, or SAV,” said Martin Lo, Director of CL Yachts, who spoke earlier in the year to YACHT STYLE about the evolution of the CLX96 design (click for interview).

Note the reverse-angle windscreens and plumb bow

The designer for both interior and exterior is Milan-based Jozeph Forakis, who brought to the project an entirely fresh approach, uncluttered by preconceptions, while Americans Earl Alfaro and Albert Horsmon handled naval architecture and structural engineering respectively.

Even before you step on board the yacht, there’s a strong impression of practicality, encased in a stylish profile. The reverse angles on the superstructure are practical in reducing internal heating and reflections yet are also a nod to CL Yachts’ expertise and relentless innovation in yacht building.

The spacious aft cockpit leads into the saloon

The plumb bow is an efficient use of waterline length to generate interior volume, but also reduces pitching, and the combined effect is of a no-nonsense vessel that can take you anywhere in the world and is ready to start 30 minutes from now. So, let’s go!

INTERIOR WITH A DIFFERENCE

Step on board straight into the aft cockpit, and a visitor is going to look straight through the internal social area and see that this boat is almost transparent. Indeed, from the cockpit through to the bow is one clear, uninterrupted line of sight.

The main-deck interior offers a clear view all the way forward

Forakis is extremely proud of this key design note. Many attempts have been made to ‘bring the outdoors in’, but few have succeeded so well. The main deck is a one-piece experience, giving an impression of a great deal more than 96ft of boat under your feet.

The interior begins with a lounge area, segues into the formal dining, passes seamlessly through the galley and bar, and concludes with the Champagne Lounge, before passageways outside lead to the circular-themed Piazza del Sole, otherwise known as the foredeck.

Aft view of the dining area and saloon

The divisions between each area are all the same height, giving the effect of one uninterrupted space, enhanced by the enormous side windows (truly floor to ceiling), opening three-panel glass doors on either side of the saloon, and the reverse-angle windshield forward.

A steeply raked window here would be pretty much standard, but would also project wasted space below it, and act as a sun trap – not so welcome in the tropics.

The Champagne Lounge uses space typically used by a helm station

You won’t see any clunky air conditioning cabinets in this indoor space, as the vents have been cleverly and elegantly incorporated into the window mullions, which are also a structural feature of the vessel.

PIAZZA AND TERRAZZA

There’s a watertight door forward and to starboard of the galley that provides easy access from the galley to the Piazza del Sole, which offers variable configuration seating and sunpads. It’s the perfect spot for ‘something cold’ before an alfresco lunch.

The Terrazza Portoghese and Piazza del Sole outdoor areas

It’s an elegantly presented space, and the plumb bow allows all the anchoring, windlass and line-handling equipment to be pushed forward and entirely out of the way. It is, indeed, efficient design.

Staying outdoors and returning to the stern, CLX96 incorporates a huge beach club deck that doubles as tender storage.

The enormous swim platform includes a Z-lift

The area also includes an ingenious hydraulic Z-lift system that can position a section of the aft deck above or below water with steps either up or down, becoming either a boarding platform when moored stern-to or a boat lift when completely lowered.

On the flybridge, you’ll find an impressively large Sky Deck with fixed and flexible seating, dining table, grill and bar facilities. With three large, electrically operated windows (port, starboard and aft) the Sky Lounge can convert from fully open-air to fully enclosed and weather-tight, so allowing the yacht’s single helm station to be located here and free up even more space on the main deck.

The Sky Deck includes the indoor Sky Lounge and sole helm station

But wait! There’s yet another social space, forward of the Sky Lounge. Called the Terrazza Portoghese, it’s named for its proximity to the forward-sloping windows of the helm station, shaded by the overhang of the Portuguese bridge. More flexible seating here invites guests to watch the sun go down, with a glass in hand, and the prospect of a quiet night in a secluded anchorage.

ROOMS WITH A VIEW

Speaking of which, CLX96 offers four en-suite cabins on the lower deck. Forward, at the yacht’s widest part, the full-beam owner’s stateroom has a huge skylight directly over the king-size bed and a 65in TV that connects to an external bow camera, so you can lie in bed and see where you’re going.

Located forward, the master suite has a king-size bed under a huge skylight

The VIP cabin midships is also full beam and has a virtual skylight with a ceiling-embedded screen connected to an external camera pointing to the sky. In fact, the VIP could easily be mistaken for a master on any other boat, while two doubles (or twins – they convert) complete the set.

Forakis is an accomplished interior designer. In common with the public areas on the main deck, the décor of the accommodation area is calm, restrained, immensely tasteful and absolutely first class. Every cabin or suite sports vast amounts of storage space. Ladies, take note. Feel free to bring extra swimsuits and more floaty dresses.

The full-beam VIP suite midships features a virtual skylight

CL Yachts has sold models into Asia, although its primary market is North America and it’s evident in the design of CLX96. Side decks, gangways, stairways and even the space between internal units are just that little bit wider, making moving around the boat easy and comfortable. And of course, the galley fridge is oversized and then some!

CLX96 is either a ‘bold departure’ from previous CL Yachts models or a ‘brave new start’ in a radically different direction: take your pick.

The widest part of the hull is forward

The important thing is that CL Yachts have presented an edgy but elegant yacht to appeal to a new generation of owners, but steeped in its parent company’s reputation for strong, seaworthy design, and quality engineering and construction.

http://www.clyachts.com

CRN’s 62m Rio offers rainbow living

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

CRN’s 62m Rio offers rainbow living

September 27, 2022
1:29 am

Built by CRN at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona, the 62m Rio is fun, colourful, breezy and bright – and among the standout world premieres at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show.

Omega Architects designed Rio’s exterior

Four decades after Duran Duran released the hit single Rio (“Her name is Rio …”), CRN launches a 62m yacht of the same name. Custom designed for an owner looking to “share the cruising experience with family and close friends”, Rio truly delivers.

She has spent her first summer season in the Mediterranean and more than lived up to her owner’s expectations ahead of the yacht’s much-anticipated world premiere at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show.

Featuring four social decks plus a technical deck, Rio offers plenty of space for up to 12 guests, with her outdoor and indoor areas similarly colourful, spacious and inviting.

Her name is Rio

Colourful cabins in an array of blues, yellows, reds and greens include a magnificent master suite on the upper deck, known here as the owner’s deck.

There’s a stunning full-beam VIP forward on the main deck and another full-beam VIP on the lower, where there are two more roomy doubles and a twin. And it’s quick and easy to get around Rio, with an elevator serving all levels.

OMEGA, PULINA STYLING

Built as Project C138 at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard, the 1,218GT megayacht was launched this January before being delivered and leaving Ancona in May.

The beach club includes a big swim platform

Dutch studio Omega Architects created the exterior of the sporty-looking looking steel and aluminium build, which features flowing hull lines and a near-vertical bow. The aft main deck profile shows Omega founder Frank Laupman’s signature arches, which protect the deck and assure privacy while framing superb views from the side and stern.

Outdoor areas include a bow lounge with a spa pool and clear deck space for exercise or parties, while the sun deck has a huge spa pool and cinema zone aft of the wheelhouse. However, we’ll start at the beach club, where the big swim platform can be dressed with outdoor furniture and toys.

The wellness lounge has a hammam, shower and racks of colourful water toys

Inside is the wellness lounge, which can be accessed from the swim platform through a rising central door or from the main-deck saloon by stairs.

As well as a hammam and shower, the wellness lounge has a range of water toys, a large TV that doubles as an interactive whiteboard for games and other entertainment, and a corner snug by the stairs.

The forward garage has double access

And if you’re looking for the big toys, an 8m Pascoe Beachlander tender, 4.2m rescue tender and two Sea-Doo Spark jetskis are stored high above the water in a garage towards the bow of the main deck, while there’s also a 14m Sacs Rebel 47 luxury RIB.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS

On the main deck, the aft cockpit offers an enormous covered lounging space with a wide aft sofa, smaller sofas on either side, coffee tables and fuschia-coloured poufs.

The aft cockpit offers an enormous lounging space overlooking the water

Like the beach club, it offers a hint of the lively colours that await behind the sliding glass door to the saloon, where the styling by Italy’s Pulina Exclusive Interiors is on show.

American walnut is used for the floors, while the walls are in white lacquered oak. However, the owner requested “bright, colourful spaces and a happy atmosphere for the younger family members to enjoy”, so white tones and natural materials are set off by pops of colour and vivid décor inspired by exotic motifs.

The saloon starts with a bar and leads to a formal dining area

The saloon starts with a stylish American bar, bar stools and lounge chairs, with the area acting as a chilled hangout zone before the room widens for the formal dining area and a large sofa facing an 83in TV. Full-height windows light up the dining and lounging area and offer spectacular views.

Further along, the central lobby features the elevator and an elegant staircase in bleached pickled oak, while white-leather wall coverings with continuous stitching give a smooth quilted look.

A TV lounge is forward of the dining area

A corridor leads past the large galley and to the full-beam VIP suite, grand enough to be considered a second master. The hallway leads past a huge walk-in wardrobe and into the main bedroom, featuring white tones and bright-blue profiling.

A forward-facing, king-size bed is flanked to starboard by a cosy coffee area, and to port by a desk; at the owner’s request, there’s a workspace in the three largest cabins. Forward are two symmetrical bathrooms.

COLOUR BELOW

Down from the main-deck lobby to the lower deck, there’s a fully equipped gym to starboard and four en-suite guest cabins, each with white lacquered-oak staved walls spiced up with dashes of colour for the wall panels, profiling and furnishings. Crema d’Orcia and Calacatta Vagli Oro marbles grace the guest bathrooms.

The lower deck includes one of Rio’s two VIP suites

Aft is the full-beam VIP, lit up by shades of red and brown, and featuring a forward-facing bed and a desk on starboard, while to port is a walk-through wardrobe leading to a twin-sink bathroom.

To port, playful pastel greens are the theme for a twin cabin with a Pullman bunk, a room ideal for youngsters. Forward are two identical double suites, each lined in green/blue with pops of yellow.

The twin cabin also has a Pullman bunk

All the cabins and guest areas include smart-automation technology allowing guests to control air conditioning, curtains, lighting (including brightness) and all AV equipment.

The spacious crew quarters are in the forward part of the lower deck and include a huge crew mess with seating for at least 15, a pantry and seven neatly finished cabins.

SKY LOUNGE & PARTY ZONE

The upper deck features the vast master suite and is termed on Rio as the owner’s deck, but it would be a pity to think family and friends couldn’t enjoy its three enormous and very distinct social spaces.

The upper deck offers alfresco dining aft

The partially covered aft deck features a full-beam row of sofas and chairs that face the yacht’s main alfresco dining area, where there’s a custom-made round teak table. To port is an American bar with barbecue in exquisite Irish Green marble with bright-green veining.

The area can also transform into an open-air party zone with DJ console, while a custom-designed RGB lighting installation completes the effect.

With the console connected to the ship’s Domotics system, the audio can be broadcast throughout the yacht, indoors and out, in a controlled way. The area is a natural hub, with stairs to both the main and sun decks, side walkways to the vast bow lounge and direct access to the most spacious interior zone.

The sky lounge is the most spacious room on the yacht

Automatic sliding glass doors unveil the huge sky lounge, which has masses of space between the sofas and chairs lining each side of the room.

Full-height windows offer breathtaking views and lots of natural light for this standout social zone, which can also be used as a cinema, games room or meeting room.

The master suite is forward on the upper deck

Forward, the hallway to the owner’s suite features hand-painted artworks depicting a jungle full of colourful animals, with the bespoke pieces created at the owner’s direction.

The blue-themed owner’s suite starts with a chaise longue and vanity desk to starboard, while there’s an antique-blue leather top on the shelves and storage running around much of the room.

The owner’s bathroom offers spectacular views

Calacatta Vagli Oro marble on the walls and Crema d’Orcia marble floors. Its unique feature is a spectacular tub by the windows for enjoying the view from the comfort of a warm bath.

Forward, the fully custom king-size bed features a white-leather headboard with a 3D effect from the vertical petrol-blue leather inlay. To port, the study area has a desk that can rotate 90 degrees into an L-shape, so a sea view is also on offer.

Forward of the owner’s suite is the stunning bow lounge

The owner’s suite also has a forward view of the striking open-air bow lounge. Offering 1,240sqft of deck space, the area is centred around a teak spa pool, which is recessed for privacy from the helm station and to be out of the wind when cruising. If required, a canopy can protect it from the sun.

Otherwise, this vast outdoor space can be dressed with poufs, chairs and sun loungers, cleared for yoga and fitness sessions, or provide a stunning dance floor under the stars at night.

The sun deck has an aft pool, sunbathing and lounging areas, plus a bar

Meanwhile, the sun deck or wheelhouse deck offers a spacious outdoor zone with a pool, integrated sun pad along one side, sofas and an American bar with a similar Irish Green marble top to the bar on the deck below.

Like most of the outdoor areas, the area is highly versatile and can become a fully equipped open-air cinema or karaoke lounge, with a big screen and projector that slide down from the ceiling.

At night, the sun deck can become a cinema

However, this yacht truly makes her mark in the day, when her light, bright interiors, knockout views, and lively outdoor zones make you realise why yachting is so much fun. So, if you’re looking for 62m of fun in the sun and colour all around you, head for Rio.

www.crn-yacht.com

Sanlorenzo’s SD118 is a remarkable balancing act

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Sanlorenzo’s SD118 is a remarkable balancing act

September 21, 2022
11:27 am

The Italian builder’s SD118 has already received multiple orders in Asia through regional dealer Simpson Marine, with the semi-displacement model offering enormous volumes and potential for customisation as well as clever use of asymmetric design.
Words: Clare Mahon

The Bernardo Zuccon design features an almost-vertical bow

Shown again at the Cannes Yachting Festival after her debut in 2021, Sanlorenzo’s SD118 balances a classic exterior design with a new interpretation of interior spaces that turns expectations for yacht interiors on their head. In fact, this 36m yacht is built in durable GRP and has an almost 8m beam and a volume of 290GT due to an innovative design solution that lets the skylounge steal the show from the main saloon.

Bernardo Zuccon, son of Gianni and Paola Zuccon who founded the Italian design studio Zuccon International Project, penned the yacht’s exterior. This second-generation yacht designer is more than a chip off the old block; he’s a talent in his own right as shown by his clean, horizontal lines for the SD118.

Note the two-level foredeck, with the lower area accessible from the master suite

Classic, but with modern verve thanks to an almost vertical bow, the yacht has three decks plus a sun deck that’s well integrated into the whole, leaving the yacht looking light. Zuccon remarks on how this yacht is a development on Sanlorenzo’s SD line of semi-displacement yachts.

“The SD118 project is a further step along the path that we embarked on with the SD96 and confirms my deep commitment to this type of navetta yacht. The term navetta calls to mind a romantic time when people headed off to sea for the pleasure of navigation more than for a desire to arrive in a destination, a time when people enjoyed the voyage and their onboard lifestyle,” he says.

“I wanted to stay true to certain aspects that characterise navetta yachts in general and the SD line in particular. However, I also wanted to continue my research into new ways of enjoying life at sea, which is why I chose to use an asymmetric layout aboard the SD118.”

The sun deck can be set up for sunbathing and casual dining

In fact, while the port side of the upper deck features a side deck that leads continuously from stern to bow, the starboard side is widebody. But more on this unusual yet very practical and space-maximising layout later.

APPEAL IN ASIA

Simpson Marine’s Nick Stratton, Sanlorenzo Asia Sales Manager, confirms that multiple units of the SD118 have been sold in the region, the first of which is due to arrive in the summer of 2023.

“Sanlorenzo is without doubt the top Italian yacht brand and the appeal to buyers here lies in their low production numbers, high quality and excellent service,” Stratton says.

Staircases are key to Sanlorenzo’s artistic interiors

“The SD range, while also being popular among new yacht owners, has a strong appeal to existing yacht owners. Characteristics of this range are economical cruising speed, long-range ability, wider beam and more interior and exterior volume. These tend to meet the demands of owners who have owned yachts before and have a very clear vision of what they want and how they will use the yacht.”

Boarding the SD118 from water level when it is at anchor is like conquering a private island. It’s also a very easy conquest, due to fold-out side terraces that open off the transom. With the terraces open, the entire stern area converts to become a 20sqm beach platform suspended just above water level.

The aft sides lower to form a three-sided beach club

The transom itself has a hydraulically operated central section that lowers into the water, so launching toys and other craft stored in the garage is quick and easy.

Beside the terraces, there are shelves for storing scuba gear, sunscreens and the like. From this very enjoyable platform area, symmetrical staircases lead up to the aft cockpit where the yacht begins to reveal her vocation for easy, relaxing life at sea.

INTERIOR CUSTOMISATION

The cockpit has a fixed couch that faces the saloon through sliding glass doors that open wide, but from there the possibilities for personalising the yacht become almost endless, as Stratton confirms.

The aft cockpit offers a large social zone with the option for loose furniture

“There are few limits to what can be achieved, especially at this size range,” he says. “As brand representatives, our enjoyment comes from spending time with owners, really understanding their requirements and then, through the design phase, bringing these ideas to life.”

Sanlorenzo’s customisation process foresees five stages through which the builder develops a personalised space plan that identifies the customer’s ideal number, size and type of cabins, while also delineating special-purpose areas for sport, entertainment or relaxation needs.

The saloon culminates in elegant, curved staircases to the upper and lower decks

“We have a variety of different SD118 layouts in the discussion phase, some with more cabins, some with less, or they have bigger galleys, Jacuzzis, gyms, spa rooms and so on,” Stratton says.

On top of the choice of layouts that Sanlorenzo offers, part of the beauty of the SD line is that there’s also a choice of top designers for interior fittings.

Photos show a Patricia Urquiola interior

Owners can opt for interiors by a wide range of designers including Bernardo and Martina Zuccon, Daniel and Michel Bismut, Guillaume Rolland from Liaigre and Patricia Urquiola, who has already collaborated with Sanlorenzo on the interiors of their SD96. Access to such world-class studios assures owners of beautiful, chic and customised results.

OWNER’S SUITE SUPREME

Fore on the main deck, past the galley and the lobby, lies the owner’s suite. With a large walk-in closet, this full-beam cabin has a walkaround bed placed slightly to port, leaving plenty of room for seating to starboard and an office area overlooking the water to port.

The main-deck owner’s suite features an inward-facing bed

The bathroom has separate toilet and shower compartments divided by a sliding glass door, while a central corridor leads to a private staircase that runs directly from the cabin to the forepeak.

Usually an out-of-the-way area used primarily by crew for storage, the forepeak is easily accessible and very enjoyable as an owner’s outdoor getaway that can be set up for reading, sunbathing or simply enjoying a priceless moment of peace and quiet. From the forepeak, owners can continue straight up to the upper deck where the yacht’s social spaces really hit their stride.

The office in the full-beam owner’s suite

SKYLOUNGE

On most yachts, the main-deck saloon is the largest space and the social centrepiece, but the SD118 has a skylounge that steals the show. Zuccon’s design for the upper deck has an innovative asymmetrical layout where a port-side passage leads fore to aft, but to starboard the interiors are built out to the side of the yacht.

Aft view of the skylounge and the covered aft upper deck

Zuccon calibrated interior weight distribution so the SD118 is well balanced, even though this large living space is asymmetrical. Add that the portside gunwale folds down to become a balcony and you have a skylounge that is extra-wide during navigation and feels practically infinite when the yacht is at anchor, with the balcony down and the sliding glass doors open.

An additional exterior foredeck lounge area in front of the bridge and an aft dining area shaded by the sun-deck overhang make the upper deck a space that invites all aboard to stay all day and well into the evening.

The skylounge on the upper deck has open doors to the portside walkway

The sun deck, with its breezy views from on high, is the icing on the cake of a yacht that already offers all the outdoor spaces, both private and convivial, that you could ask for. This area can be set up for sunbathing and casual dining under the hardtop.

LOWER DECK

Further guest accommodation on the lower deck includes two spacious VIP cabins and two doubles, all of which are en-suite and can be appointed to suit the owner’s taste and needs. In fact, as per Sanlorenzo’s customising options, these spaces can be set up as something other than cabins such as a massage room or a gym.

Lower-deck cabins can include two VIPs and two more doubles

The crew area, also on the lower deck, has cabins for up to five, enabling a two-to-one guest-to-crew ratio that assures comfortable, luxurious long-term stays. All work paths are to port so crew can go about their tasks without disturbing guests, a setup that assures privacy and the best onboard experience for all.

True to its navetta yacht typology, the SD118 was created to navigate at length in total autonomy. Combined with the MTU and Cat engine options, the efficient hull design developed by in-house by Sanlorenzo helps give the yacht a 3,000nm-plus cruising range at 11 knots.

The first Sanlorenzo SD118 in Asia will arrive in 2023

That creates broad horizons, anything from island hopping to getting away from it all, for owners that want to cruise to their heart’s content while enjoying all the comforts this yacht offers.

The Sanlorenzo SD118’s large interior volumes, top-notch roster of interior designers and long cruising range have made it a huge market success, proof that this asymmetrical yacht has balanced all the key elements that yacht owners are looking for. And soon, thanks to Simpson Marine, you’ll be able to see what’s so right about asymmetry with your own eyes.

www.simpsonmarine.com/manufacturer/sanlorenzo

Absolute 56 Fly: Flexible, functional … fantastic

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Absolute 56 Fly: Flexible, functional … fantastic

September 16, 2022
12:16 am

Absolute’s new 56 Fly debuted at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, but before that, Yacht Style jumped aboard the model’s first unit in Hong Kong, where it appeared to cover all the bases for most owners due to its remarkable versatility. Words: Guy Nowell.

The 56 Fly was among Absolute’s two world premieres at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival

Among Absolute’s two world premieres at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, the 56 Fly is a new offering from a company that lives halfway between Lake Garda and Genoa, and a long way from any navigable water. Never mind.

Absolute has been producing quality motor yachts with a dash of that much-vaunted Italian flair since Sergio Maggi and Marcello Bé founded the company in 2002.

Asia’s first Absolute Fly on the run in Hong Kong

Each Absolute learns from the model that went before. This is very apparent in the appearance of the boats and the 56 Fly is no exception, developing its pedigree from both the Fly and Navetta lines, and presenting something that is both ‘new’ and grounded in experience.

Step aboard, either via the slide-away passarelle or up the steps from the swim platform and there’s much to explore on all three decks, while there’s the option of driving from either the lower helm or the flybridge.

Absolute Marine represents the Italian builder in Hong Kong

On the move, the 56 Fly proves to be an exceptionally well-mannered boat. We were in the Tat Hong Channel on a beautiful calm and blue-sky day, so the biggest waves to contend with were our own wake, which we crossed and recrossed without even noticing, pushed along by a pair of Volvo D8-IPS800 engines.

In a tight turn, the boat shows no inclination to slip or slide. From a standing start, the boat planes at a little over nine knots, which translates into remarkably good fuel consumption. Absolute quotes 8.3 litres/nm at an optimum cruising speed of 19 knots and 2,500rpm.

The cockpit has a clear aft balustrade

For travelling in and around any of the regular near-metropolitan cruising areas in Asia, you’ll never suffer from range anxiety. Coastal cruising over longer distances is achievable too when your range is 550nm at 10 knots.

SUN AND SHADE

Starting with the outdoor areas, the cockpit is a big social space, with modular and movable furniture than can be configured as you wish, while it also benefits from the clear aft balustrade introduced on other recent Absolute models.

The flybridge has modular seating aft, a covered wet bar, dining table and seating, plus a forward sofa and sunpad

The next space to explore is the flybridge, which seems to offer everything. There’s modular movable seating aft, a grill/galley/bar unit immediately forward so that you won’t have to go too far for a refill, a covered table and sofa seating to starboard, even more sofa seating adjacent to the two-seat helm position, and forward sunpads, too. There are at least 15 places to sit or lie on the flybridge alone.

It’s hot today, so we head down, step inside and soak up some cool! The galley is immediately inside the saloon, properly positioned to serve both the cockpit and the lounge and dining areas, and is fully equipped with name brand appliances, and even a wine fridge under the pilot seat.

The interior has an aft galley with excellent storage, plus great views all around the saloon

The driving position provides excellent visibility for both helmsman and co-pilot, and there’s immediate deck access via a side door to starboard.

Social space on the foredeck has become an ever more popular feature on motor yachts. Once the province of the crew and the anchor windlass, the foredeck is now ‘usable space’ and constitutes a valuable contribution to onboard functionality.

The saloon has a full C-shaped sofa and a facing two-seat sofa behind the twin-seat helm

The pointy end of the Absolute 56 Fly offers sofa seating, casual dining and convertible sunpad configurations, with a shade sail that can be erected in mere moments.

In fact, if you count the all the seating and sunpads in the four social areas – cockpit, saloon, foredeck and flybridge – there are at least 30 seats and places to park yourself, and that’s just sitting or lying down. This boat could happily host a 40-guest function without even thinking about it, so it’s a party boat, too!

MASTERFUL CABINS

Right beside the helm is the companionway to the accommodation, and we are really unsure which is the master suite and which is the VIP. They are both sufficiently big and luxurious.

Situated forward and up a couple of steps, the master suite has a desk to port, a hanging wardrobe starboard and a large en-suite in the bow

In fact, the full-beam master is in the bow, where it’s apparent that the vertical stem design is not merely fashion; it is practical, too, allowing the suite to go ‘all the way’ forwards where a swept bow would have reduced the available space.

The master suite is the main beneficiary of the boat’s enormous hull windows, making the space the opposite of dark-and poky, and there are opening ventilation ports as well. The VIP suite is also full beam, with a practical separate shower/toilet arrangement, and in the space between the two suites is a further twin cabin and a third bathroom.

The full-beam VIP suite midships is like a master suite

The décor in the lower deck is restrained and elegant, with both dark and light wood tones echoing the finishes of the surfaces and bulkheads. The effect is delightful and stylish.

Absolutely every available space has been turned into storage, so bring luggage! A weekend on board could involve swimming, hiking, lazing, cocktails and formal dinners – and Mademoiselle can be ‘best dressed’ for every occasion!

DESIGN THEMES

Interestingly, interior spaces, including the suites and cabin, are designed on an uninterrupted flat surface. There are no steps, meaning you’ll never stub a toe, nor will you ‘miss a step’. It’s an important design feature, and very much understated.

Modular seats arranged as three two-seat sofas

There’s no doubt that Absolute build good-quality boats. You can tell by touch – the touch of the surfaces, and the touch on the helm.

They are built using Absolute’s Integrated Structural System, or ISS, which is a custom optimised modular process that ensures superlative quality control at all stages of construction, from hull to fit-out to interiors.

Cockpit seating arranged as two three-seat sofas

The exterior design of all their boats is highly distinctive, unlike many brands that use multiple designers. The oversized hull window panels are echoed in the saloon windows, which drop down to really “let the outdoors in”. The bulwarks have been replaced with railings which make the sides more visually transparent, and the cockpit sides are perforated for a similar effect.

At the end of the day, so much is a matter of taste. Ask yourself, ‘what do I want to do with my boat?’ because there’s no such thing as ‘perfect’.

The twin-seat helm benefits from the breeze and access offered by a side door

Sure, there are certain criteria that must be met – floating and moving are two of them – but if you’re looking for a day out on beautiful beaches, a coastal cruise, a weekend or overnight marine glamping experience, a party boat for sunset cocktails with umpteen friends, or even a quiet dinner venue – social or business – then look no further. And the Italian style is included!

www.absoluteyachts.com

www.absoluteyachts.com/en/absolute_dealer/absolute-marine/

Gulf Craft’s majestic new Tri-Deck

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Gulf Craft’s majestic new Tri-Deck

September 1, 2022
1:48 pm

As part of Gulf Craft’s 40th-anniversary celebrations this year, the UAE builder staged the premiere of its Majesty 120, which has sold multiple units on both sides of the Atlantic and features a fun-filled sun deck, a Cristian Gatto interior with three indoor lounges, and an energy-saving heat-recovery system.

The Majesty 120 officially debuted in 2022

After last year’s lavish premiere of the Cristiano Gatto-designed flagship Majesty 175, the world’s largest composite production superyacht, Gulf Craft was able to start the shipyard’s 40th anniversary in 2022 with the official debut of the Majesty 120 at this year’s Dubai International Boat Show.

The 37m tri-deck with an 8.1m beam was the largest yacht on display at the ‘Superyacht Avenue’ in Dubai Harbour, making its debut as host venue as the show was held for the first time since 2019. In fact, the first Majesty 120 was slated to premiere at the 2020 edition of the Dubai show, but plans were scuppered by the pandemic that led to a three-year gap between editions.

Gulf Craft’s in-house design team handled naval architecture and exterior

Despite the lack of boat shows reducing international exposure for the Majesty 120 over the past couple of years, five hulls have been sold, with three based in the Mediterranean and two more across the Atlantic in Florida.

Kostas Christodoulou, Gulf Craft’s COO, says the combination of the shipyard’s in-house design studio and the ongoing partnership with Italy-based Cristiano Gatto Design, responsible for the interior, has helped the Majesty 120 appeal to superyacht owners in various continents.

The aft garage carries a large tender and can be converted into a beach club

“The Majesty 120 has an incredibly detailed hull continuously studied through multiple CFD (computational fluid dynamics) simulations, so the vessel has a very low fuel consumption and increased speed. Meanwhile, our long-term partnership with the renowned Gatto Design team holds strong appeal for clients,” Christodoulou says.

“There’s a great synergy between Gulf Craft and Gatto Design where innovation, client satisfaction and refined luxury all come together to create a Majesty Yacht. Working with Cristiano underlines Gulf Craft’s push to reach more of a varied clientele with interiors that touch upon international aesthetics, rooted in Middle Eastern charm.”

OUTDOOR FUN

Gulf Craft handled naval architecture and the striking exterior of the Majesty 120, with the angular lines and reverse wheelhouse reflecting the new DNA of the brand’s superyachts and continuing design themes introduced on the Majesty 140, which debuted in 2019 and also features a Gatto interior.

The forward area of the upper deck offers a sofa and sunpads ahead of the wheelhouse

Built in GRP and carbon-fibre in Gulf Craft’s main facility in Umm Al Quwain, the 200-tonne Majesty 120 has an impressive volume of 290GT. Machinery includes twin 2,600hp MTU engines and Kohler generators, yet she only draws 2m, allowing her to navigate shallow waters.

Outdoor guest areas start aft, where the wide garage can become a beach club once the tender is moved to the water and furniture is put in its place. If more space is needed for water toys, two jetskis can also be stored in the foredeck and deployed by a crane.

The large sun deck features a jacuzzi and sun pads at the forward end

The aft cockpit on the main deck is completely covered and offers alfresco dining for 10 people around a large table, plus a wet bar to starboard by the saloon doors. Outdoor stairs to port lead up to the upper deck’s aft cockpit, which is only partially covered by the overhang. Again, portside stairs lead up and this time bring you to the outdoor social area on the Majesty 120 – the sun deck supreme!

Gulf Craft says the sun deck is 30 per cent larger than on yachts in its class and it’s easy to believe. It starts aft with a free area that can fit several sun loungers. The central area covered by the hard top includes a large L-shaped seating area to starboard, while to starboard is a long bar with three stools. The crowning glory is forward, where steps lead up to a jacuzzi flanked by large sunbathing areas.

The aft end is a clear area that can fit three sun loungers

There’s another outdoor area, forward of the wheelhouse on the upper deck, where there’s a wide C-shaped sofa and two tables facing a large sunbathing area.

INTERNATIONAL INTERIOR

For the interior, Gatto and his team worked to a brief that called for a minimalist design to cater to international tastes, resulting in a clean, contemporary look. The indoor areas include an upper-deck saloon, which has a large L-shaped sofa facing aft to a bar and TV on either side of sliding doors to the aft deck.

The upper-deck saloon has a large L-shaped sofa facing a TV and a bar on either side of sliding doors to the aft deck

On the main deck, guests are greeted by a large, carpeted saloon that can be symmetrically laid out with a chair, long sofa and curved coffee table on each side as well as an aft-facing sofa that includes a pop-up television in the backrest. Forward is the formal dining area, delineated by wooden flooring and both this area and the lounge are flanked by huge, one-piece windows that bathe the entire saloon area in natural light.

The door to port leads to the pantry and the main galley, which also includes a dining area for crew. The starboard door leads to the lobby and the sumptuous full-beam owner’s suite, which starts with a hallway flanked by a walk-in wardrobe to port and drawers below a big window to starboard.

Aft view of the main saloon, which features a forward sofa with a pop-up television

The main bedroom has a ‘floating’ forward-facing king-size bed and bedside tables, while there are sofas on both sides and a desk-cum-vanity table in the aft port corner. The bed faces an elegant, open-style bathroom with twin sinks and large mirror, while there’s an enclosed head to starboard and a large shower to port, both rooms finished in marble.

The lower deck has an interesting, asymmetrical layout, with the stairs leading down to a port-side guest lounge, a child friendly room that includes an L-shaped sofa under two hull windows facing a TV on the bulkhead as well as a desk-cum-vanity aft facing a window with porthole.

Forward view of the dining area, which is forward of the saloon

The guest lounge leads to the four en-suite guest cabins, comprising a twin to starboard, VIP stateroom in the bow and two double cabins side by side midships. The yacht also has accommodation for up to seven crew.

TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS

Aside from the engines and generators, electrical power is used for all onboard equipment and systems, whether it’s the fin stabilisers, thrusters and steering or the balconies and passarelle. The 120 is the first Majesty superyacht to have all-electrical systems, which reduces noise and maintenance, yet one technological advancement stands out.

The owner’s site has a ‘floating’ king-size bed, sofas on both sides and a desk-cum-vanity table in the aft port corner

The Majesty 120 is the first Gulf Craft model and first production yacht of her size to feature a heat-recovery system. On most yachts, heat produced by the air-conditioning chillers and generators is typically dispatched to the sea through heat exchangers, but on the 120 it’s used to warm water and even specific cabins when needed.

“On top of energy saving, the heat-recovery system on the Majesty 120 gives the opportunity to have more advanced temperature control in the cabins,” Christodoulou says. “With a closed circuit of hot water existing in parallel to the chilled water circuit, the fan coils can adjust individually the temperatures of any room either over or under the ambient.

The full-beam owner’s suite starts with a starboard hallway that accesses a walk-in wardrobe

“It’s a very important feature during late spring or mid-autumn in the Mediterranean or winter in the Middle East and parts of Asia, effectively expanding the cruising and charter season.

During those seasons, while ambient is about 23-25°C, some passengers like to have cooler cabins than this and others want warmer cabins. On the Majesty 120, this can be achieved with the minimum-possible energy.”

The lower deck includes a port-side lounge that accesses four guest cabins

The European debut of the Majesty 120 at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival will widen the audience for this key model from a thriving shipyard with a stated ambition of becoming one of the world’s top five superyacht builders by 2025.

majesty.gulfcraftinc.com

www.gulfcraftinc.com

Fountaine Pajot’s new Aura marks new era

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Fountaine Pajot’s new Aura marks new era

August 25, 2022
12:30 am

Debuting at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, Fountaine Pajot’s Aura 51 heads a new generation of eco-friendly models from the La Rochelle builder. However, it’s also notable for its performance, integrated cockpit and saloon, relaxing outdoor areas and remarkable accommodation options. By Emmanuel Van Deth.

The Aura 51 marks a new eco-friendly focus for Fountaine Pajot

The heart of the cruising catamaran market, hovering in recent years at the 45ft mark, now seems to be increasing a little in size. The 50ft sector, which can be sailed without the help of a crew, is becoming fiercely contested, as shown by the almost simultaneous launches earlier this year of Fountaine Pajot’s Aura 51 and the Lagoon 51.

In La Rochelle, we had the chance to discover hull one of the Aura 51, another design for Fountaine Pajot by Berret-Racoupeau, which succeeded Joubert/Nivelt about a decade ago, designing the Helia 44 launched in 2012.

Although relatively heavy, the Aura 51 performs well under sail in all conditions

The brand’s current generation, with its inverted bows, was led by the Saona 47 in 2017 and quickly bolstered by the Astrea 42 and Alegria 67 in 2018, the Elba 45 in 2019 and the Samana 59 in 2020, while last year the Tanna 47 was announced and the Isla 40 made her debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival.

The new Aura 51, set to premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival this September, picks up on all the same codes and is very successful because of that.

The control position is split on most Fountaine Pajot catamarans

The superstructures are lighter due to the pronounced deck camber, the coachroof with a cap that barely protrudes in front of the mast foot and the bimini, which is refined and covers practically the entire cockpit. The only notable evolution of this latest generation is the slope of the bows, now reversed.

MANAGEABLE BY A COUPLE

The 50-55ft range is where a cruising multihull not specifically designed with ‘short-handed’ sailing in mind can demand a professional crew. The Aura 51 retains the dual forward manoeuvring station and aft helm station used on all the manufacturer’s models from 42ft and above.

Manoeuvring station in front, helm station behind

From here, the helmsman remains in contact with those in the aft cockpit, even galley, as well as the flybridge. A flybridge means a raised boom. Here, the gooseneck remains anchored relatively low, but the cut of the mainsail raises the boom significantly at the clew end.

The cars for the sheets of the overlapping genoa sit on tracks set well inboard – the port sheet passes under a false deck to reach the manoeuvring station.

There are three winches and two banks of clutches. Halyards, sheets, traveller lines: everything can be adjusted from this station except the port gennaker (or spinnaker) sheet, which requires a dedicated winch on the deck, near the return block.

The flybridge has a C-shaped sofa and a double sunpad forward

The entire coachroof and flybridge are bordered by an impressive area of solar panels – up to 2,000W – which have been specially cut to cover the space. Otherwise, the flybridge is a great lounging area, offering a wide C-shaped bench seat and forward sunbathing area.

The foredeck also offers a large C-shaped seating and lounging area, plus two large trampolines. The chain locker is cleverly topped by a wooden cover, which serves as a small table. There are plenty of lockers forward of the mast, but their use is hampered by the upholstery.

The foredeck features lots of seating and a wooden table that covers the windlass storage

The two forepeaks offer very large volume and can be fitted out as crew berths. As for the side decks, they’re wide and perfectly clear.

The aft cockpit is particularly welcoming with a large table capable of seating 10 guests and surrounded by an L shaped sofa and a bench seat, while there’s also a day bed to starboard and a wide aft sofa with a gas grill to starboard, plus a compartment for the liferaft. The two sugarscoops link with a central hydraulic platform that can carry up to 200kg.

THAT FEELING OF GLIDING

The model we tested was equipped with the optional 75hp motors. These larger engines make manoeuvring even easier. It’s very straightforward to make a U-turn on the spot and to hold yourself alongside the dock or a pontoon with the help of a spring or bow/stern line.

Berret-Racoupeau handled the design

On clearing the harbour, we were picked up by an ideal 11-16 knot northwest wind. The Aura 51 immediately demonstrated her excellent capabilities under full mainsail and genoa, settling at a speed of 8-9 knots with the wind on the beam.

The Incidences D4 sail wardrobe – not included in the manufacturer’s options – and the folding propellers provided a welcome turbo effect. During a more pronounced gust, the GPS even indicated 10 knots. The sail plan adapts easily to sailing close to the wind, especially the overlapping genoa with its sheeting point set well inboard.

The Aura 51 performed well in good winds

At speeds below 5-6 knots, the relatively short skeg keels won’t eliminate all the leeway, but above a Force 3, you’re able to make a course a little sharper than 50° without stalling. Under gennaker, the Aura 51 was able to maintain an average speed of over 10 knots. These performances are excellent considering the displacement and the level of comfort observed.

Comparing the specifications of the Aura 51 and the former Saba 50, the displacement has increased 15 per cent from 15.7 tonnes to 18.1 tonnes, while the sail area has increased 9 per cent to 154sqm (1,658sqft). Despite the Saba’s higher sail-to-weight ratio, the Aura is certainly faster than her predecessor.

The aft platform can support a 200kg tender, while at anchor it serves as a beach club

The smoothness of the helm and the good view over the water and the rig obviously contribute to the sailing pleasure. You don’t feel any spectacular acceleration but rather an impression of power and serenity that invites you to continue heading offshore.

WIDE OPEN INTERIOR

In addition to the numerous solar panels that surround the flybridge, the main innovation to be found aboard the Aura 51 is the extra-wide opening between the cockpit and saloon that creates one large covered social zone.

The expansive saloon opening is among the Aura 51’s main innovations

The bay windows comprise three large panels that retract next to the helm station, offering a potential opening of 7ft 6in across.

On the port side, the galley unit extends outward and supports an additional window. Due to the central island design, the chef doesn’t get in anyone’s way and can work almost outside. This ‘inside/outside’ configuration works superbly. To top that, the galley is particularly well-equipped with storage space, while additional refrigeration can be ordered.

The saloon has good height and is well lit by large windows and skylights

The saloon is suitable for taller sailors, with over 7ft of headroom near the entrance, and is very bright due to big windows on three sides and large skylights. The finishing everywhere is neat, without playing the bling card. The saloon extends on the starboard side and features an L-shaped bench seat facing an angled corner sofa forward.

Our test model had a coffee table, but in the absence of a ‘proper’ chart table, the multi-function, electrically-operated high table option – including an extra bed – would seem more judicious, if only to provide a desk when needed.

The saloon has an L-shaped sofa and another corner couch

The watchkeeping and navigation aspects have been catered for by the shipyard using the central lounger, which offers a view of the sail plan as well as power outlets for plugging in a tablet.

CABIN OPTIONS GALORE

Down below, the accommodation options are truly impressive and can include a six-cabin version for 12 guests, comprising three doubles with en-suite bathrooms on each side.

The aft cabins, including the master suites in the Maestro versions, can access the cockpit via a hatch

Layout options also include three owner versions. The Aura 51 we tested had the Maestro five-cabin version comprising a master and double to port and three doubles to starboard.

Otherwise, the symmetrical four-cabin Double Maestro features a master and a guest cabin in each hull, while the four-cabin Full Maestro has a giant master occupying the whole port hull and three doubles to starboard.

All cabins have window-facing beds and en-suite bathrooms

In every layout, each cabin has a window-facing bed, an en-suite bathroom and more than 6ft 6in of headroom, while the aft cabin in each hull has access to the cockpit via steps and a hatch.

With well over 100 units ordered off plan, the new model is already assured of a strong commercial career and its popularity is well deserved.

Comfortable, carefully finished and boasting impressive performance, the Aura 51 is already established as one of the leading options in the increasingly competitive 50ft cruising catamaran sector.

www.fountaine-pajot.com

Fairline’s flagship Squadron 68 shows Asia appeal

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Fairline’s flagship Squadron 68 shows Asia appeal

August 18, 2022
3:57 am

The British builder’s upgraded flagship has already debuted in Asia ahead of the model’s official world premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September – when another hull is set to arrive in this region through Simpson Marine.

Asia’s first new-edition Squadron 68 in the Gulf of Thailand; Photos: Simpson Marine

Fairline was one of the first yacht builders to reveal its line-up for this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, announcing that it would stage not one but two world premieres from September 6-11. The British builder will unveil its all-new Phantom 65 at the six-day show, while its other debutant will be the upgraded edition of its flagship Squadron 68.

The Oundle shipyard displayed the original Squadron 68 at the last pre-Covid edition of the Cannes show, in 2019, when its other global debuts included the F//Line 33. Last year, Fairline released a reconfigured, hard top version of the F//Line 33, while this year it’s the turn of its flagship model to re-emerge new and improved.

The model features new hull glazing and a streamlined hard top with sliding sunroof

The 2022 edition of the Squadron 68 includes a modernised exterior, but the main changes are the hard top and sunroof, a fresh interior layout with multiple lower-deck options, as well as new materials and lighting.

Paul Grys, Fairline Yachts’ CEO, says: “Having taken onboard feedback from customers to further improve the Squadron 68, we’re confident buyers will fall in love with it as much as we have.”

The model’s Asia premiere was held three months before its world premiere, with Simpson Marine displaying the first unit in the region in Pattaya in June. The dealership then handed over the yacht to its owners, with the family-and-friends celebrations including a scenic cruise around islands near Pattaya, where the boat is kept at Ocean Marina Yacht Club.

Simpson Marine is awaiting a second hull in Asia

The Squadron 68 in Thailand tops 30 knots with the standard 1,150hp Cat C18 engines, a solid return for a yacht with a dry weight of 43 tonnes, while Fairline also offers 1,622hp Cat C32 engines for a couple of extra knots.

STREAMLINED RESTYLE

The new hull glazing reflects the design also seen on the Phantom 65, the first model of the brand’s new sportbridge line. A thin black line runs from the swim platform before widening around the midships hull windows before a thinner band of glazing continues to a forward point. The new shape of the glazing reflects better the shape of the superstructure and hull.

The Pattaya-based hull includes the aft electric sunshade integrated into the hard top

The new hard top does the same. Instead of thin struts, the hard-top mast features elegant forward-raked supports that extend the flow of the aft superstructure on the main deck, highlighted on each side by Fairline’s recognisable triple-fin signature.

The original Squadron 68 was a tall-looking boat, but the new glazing and hard top disguise the height with a sporty, dynamic profile that benefits from exterior lines going in consistent directions.

Its features become apparent as you board the hydraulic high-low swim platform, which has a 500kg capacity so can carry and deploy a Williams TurboJet 325, for instance. Symmetrical stairways lead up to the aft cockpit, which has a C-shaped sofa and teak dining table, plus two bar stools by the galley window, which can flip up into the ceiling.

The cockpit has a large C-shaped sofa, teak dining table, bar stools and new tri-fold saloon door

As we move along the starboard side deck, we’re shown the side door by the lower helm, a new and important option according to Howard Prime, Simpson Marine’s Country Manager for Thailand.

“The starboard side door is a key new feature,” Prime says. “It means you can ventilate the helm really easily, but also those at the helm can get out to the side deck far more easily than having to walk out the back first.”

KEEPING COVERED

The foredeck is an elegant and flexible social area, with a C-shaped sofa and a table facing a very wide sunpad area. The aft part of the sunpads contains a fold-up backrest that creates a two-seat sofa that faces the table for a more rounded social gathering. The unit in Thailand includes the optional sky canopy for the foredeck, a useful extra in Asia.

The foredeck sky bimini

The flybridge has always been a key highlight of any Squadron and the new 68 retains the excellent original layout. There are three separate social areas, starting behind the port-side stairs where modular seating can be arranged to face aft through the clear balustrade.

On the starboard side, there’s a wet bar behind a large three-sided sofa that’s cleverly angled to face across to the forward port corner, where there’s a similar but smaller seating set-up in reverse. The twin-seat helm station is to starboard.

The flybridge includes a central dining area (above) and forward lounge (below)

Hard top aside, the biggest change in the flybridge is above, where Fairline has replaced the slatted sunroof with a 3m by 2.3m sliding fabric sunroof, which offers much better ventilation and light when opened. An integrated electric sunshade can extend cover aft, while an optional sky canopy supported by poles can cover the entire aft flybridge.

SUMPTUOUS INTERIOR

The new edition also comes with the option of a tri-fold saloon door into the interior, where Fairline has changed things extensively while the wood options remain impressive.

The aft galley neighbours the dining area, which has a leather sofa and stools

The hull in Thailand features high-gloss walnut and maple, while other options include satin walnut and lighter choices like satin oak or high-gloss oak. Flooring is in oak and available in white, smoked and Nero versions, while interior mood lighting is among other options.

The beautiful timber flooring and hand-crafted cabinetry is seen as soon as you step inside. The galley on the port side has a new design that maximises workspace and increases the fridge/freezer capacity, while there’s the option of a dishwasher below the sink.

Aft view of the saloon, with woodwork is in high-gloss walnut and maple

The dining area is to starboard and includes an adjustable table, an L-shaped leather sofa and matching low stools, which fit under the table when not in use.

Walk forward and the switch from timber flooring to carpet signifies entry into a saloon dominated by a large C shaped sofa and a foldable, high-low dining/coffee table on a slightly elevated floor to port. This main lounging area faces a starboard two-seat sofa and a retractable television. Both saloon sofas are available in a range of fabrics.

The high-low saloon table is also foldable

The forward area includes the twin helm seats to starboard and companion seating in the form of a cosy, forward-facing corner sofa port side of stairs to the lower deck.

OPTIONS APLENTY

The steps arrive at the lower-deck lobby before a U-turn takes you to the owner’s suite midships. The full-beam stateroom features a king-sized bed, bureau and drawer storage to starboard, and a large port-side sofa.

The master suite has a sofa to port and bureau to starboard, while aft are the walk-in wardrobe and bathroom

Forward, the en-suite guest cabin to starboard has more width than in the previous model plus the option of an electric-bed conversion to switch between twin berths and a double bed. The VIP suite is in the bow and features hanging cupboards on both sides.

There are four options for the room port side of the staircase, including the utility room selected for the unit in Thailand. Alternatively, the area can be a day head, a fourth guest cabin with bunk beds, or even part of an extended VIP suite.

Fairline’s options list is immense, and Asia’s first unit is well specced, with tropical-strength air-conditioning plus television and movies running on a built-in wireless router. There’s also an integrated Sonos audio system with three Sub stages, flush-mounted speakers, roaming speakers, amplifiers and subwoofers, as well as mobile waterproof Bluetooth add-ons.

The en-suite VIP cabin in the bow includes wardrobes on both sides

Simpson Marine is already looking ahead to the arrival of a second Squadron 68, potentially as early as September, as the multi-brand dealership continues to build the profile of a shipyard it represents across Greater China and Southeast Asia.

“Each Fairline has a sleek, attractive exterior and features beautiful woodwork and attention to detail. However, they’re also well-built and very seaworthy, with robust hulls, so they get lots of compliments from crew and clients on their handling,” Prime says.

“Fairline is deservedly renowned as one of the top British builders and its range of models from about 30-70ft covers a very popular market segment and are great value considering the quality.”
www.fairline.com
www.simpsonmarine.com

Jeanneau’s new family-friendly flagship

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Jeanneau’s new family-friendly flagship

August 11, 2022
1:34 pm

A world premiere at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, the Jeanneau Yachts 65 is the French builder’s latest large, luxurious cruising yacht by the dream team of Philippe Briand and Andrew Winch, again offering a head-spinning variety of semi-custom options. By Geoffroy Langlade.

The Jeanneau Yachts 65 debuts at the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival

After the worldwide success of the Jeanneau Yachts 60 that debuted last year, the French manufacturer has raised the stakes by introducing the new Jeanneau Yachts 65 to its flagship range of sailing yachts. Succeeding the former 64, which sold more than 70 units, the new 65 heads a prestigious Jeanneau Yachts family that now comprises four luxury models including the 51 and 54.

The Jeanneau Yachts 65 is billed as an all-rounder that provides a safe, comfortable experience for a family, with many able to see her with their own eyes when the model debuts at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival.

Designed to offer enjoyable sailing even in winds of less than eight knots, the new flagship has a classic hull, once again designed by Philippe Briand, paired with a sleek, modern deck layout. With over 12,000 sailing boats built to his designs since the late 1970s, the vastly experienced French naval architect is convinced he’s helped produce another winner in a sailing market featuring a growing number of twin-hulled options.

Philippe Briand handled the naval architecture of the Jeanneau Yachts 65

“For owners looking for a family boat for extended trips, the Jeanneau Yachts 65 offers the best package on the market today. As a sailing yacht ideally positioned for the voyage market, it can access all marinas without any difficulties and offers a comparable surface area in the cockpit to that found on board a catamaran,” says Briand, who has studios in his native La Rochelle and London.

“In my view, the Jeanneau Yachts 65 offers a conclusive argument for why monohulls are a better choice for extended voyages than multihulls, as they’re more comfortable at sea, safer and more fun to sail. Indeed, the Jeanneau Yachts 65 is what we call une valeur sure or a safe bet for any owner.”

Those words rang through my head on a trip to the south of France as I tested the Jeanneau Yachts 65 in the Bay of Cannes with a strong east wind and a nice swell, which the yacht handled with ease.

The garage door lowers to access the tender and become a swim platform

The almost 68ft model comes with a 90sqm furling mainsail and an 80sqm self-tacking jib as standard, as well as a 175hp Volvo Penta D4-180 engine, which was well soundproofed, allowing the yacht to be manoeuvred discreetly with the aid of thrusters.

The two stainless-steel steering wheels are sheathed in leather, which is a nice touch, and helming is pleasant, allowing you to feel the responsiveness of the hull. The yacht is designed for use with a small crew and all the halyards and sheets return to the electric winches, which can be operated from the console.

A solid hard top with a sliding sunroof covers the cockpit, although one drawback is that it can sometimes hinder the skipper’s visibility during manoeuvres. Briand’s touches include redesigning the taper of the coachroof forward of the mast with a touch of automotive styling.

FLUSH DECK, FLUID CIRCULATION

Manufactured at Groupe Beneteau’s Italian shipyard in Monfalcone on the Adriatic Sea, the semi-custom sailing yacht is carefully built with a glued hull counter-mould and an infused deck and deck counter-mould.

The steering stations can be covered by a hard top with sliding sunroof

The Jeanneau Yachts 65 has a different deck layout and interior to the former 64 and shares a few characteristics with the CNB 66, which was produced at the same Monfalcone facility before the Groupe Beneteau brand was bought by Solaris.

On the 65, the circulation, access to manoeuvres, storage and comfort at sea and anchor have been thought out in minute detail. In the stern, the garage door folds down to reveal a built-in stairway that accesses the swim platform and the transverse dinghy garage.

The external social areas can be covered or opened depending on conditions

On deck, an optional bench seat aft offers fold-down seats either side for a skipper to use, while if you lift the cushions on the main section, you can access the flip-up outdoor galley, a similar feature to that on the 60.

Forward of the wheels are two large, low storage lockers that can be covered in cushions to form the start of enormous lounging areas on both sides. Each side of the cockpit has a C-shaped sofa and a long teak table that can be lowered electrically to further expand the sunbed lounging area.

Protected from wind even when the bimini is folded down, the cockpit feels very spacious

Circulation is very fluid due in large to the largely flush deck. With the gently sloping, step-free side decks, a cockpit with just one step up to the dining area and the external positioning of the shrouds and cap shrouds, movement from the stern to the bow is safe for crew members or young children.

FLEXIBLE INTERIOR

Inside, the Jeanneau Yachts 65 offers a new style and decor by Winch, the prolific British designer who heads one of the yachting world’s largest design studios. The decor has evolved compared to the previous models, and is somewhat similar in spirit and interior atmosphere to Jeanneau’s new generation of motor yachts.

UK-based Winch Design has designed a well lit, spacious interior

The teak or white oak woodwork, both in hollow pore, is harmonised with a choice of floor colours and a wide range of luxury leather upholstery. Light tones dominate the interior, which helps showcase the luxurious detailing.

The impression of volume is reinforced by the presence of numerous portholes and skylights above and on the sides, while we appreciated the good headroom, ease of movement inside and the large number of handrails.

The table is shown in the formal dining position

The saloon includes a flexible coffee-cum-dining table on the starboard side along with a C-shaped sofa that can accommodate eight guests, while there’s a facing settee on the port side. Aft of the dining area and starboard of the companionway is the option of a well-designed navigation station including chart table, or the area can instead be used for a cabin with bunk beds.

To port of the stairs, the three-sided galley is well ventilated and naturally lit by the portholes, and is nicely integrated into the main saloon. The standard version offers plenty of storage space, equipment (microwave, fridge, extractor hood, three-burner stove and sliding waste bin) and attractive Corian worktops. Good news: a wine compartment can be added!

The three-sided galley is in the aft port corner of the saloon

Owners can choose between two, three, four or even more cabins, with both the fore and aft areas able to be set up as one full-beam suite or two cabins. The option of an aft full-beam owner’s suite includes a king-size bed measuring 2m by 1.8m, with a sofa to starboard, corner desk to port and en-suite bathroom forward to starboard. The area can also be designed with an en-suite double cabin to starboard and a twin to port.

The forward night zone can be designed as a full-beam cabin with a forward-facing bed along the starboard side, sofa to port and en-suite in the bow. The area can also be arranged as two double cabins, each with en-suites, while Jeanneau has said a six-cabin charter version is being developed.

This hull features a full-beam master suite aft, with a sofa to starboard and a nice desk and vanity table to port

As with the Jeanneau Yachts 60, the new 65 is elevating the brand’s image as it pushes into the market of semi-custom yachts with a higher level of performance and a sleek, elegant and modern design. The cockpit is particularly user-friendly, and the number of options is large and appeals to owners looking to enjoy long cruises in the company of family and friends.

“This large semi-custom cruising yacht is a concentration of the technical know-how of Jeanneau, who are forerunners in terms of performance and well-being at sea,” Briand says.

Aft view showing the optional twin-bunk cabin starboard of the companionway

“The Jeanneau Yachts 65 is adaptable to its owner, with customisation designed and crafted in direct contact with the client, allowing them to create a boat that reflects their image.” www.jeanneau.com

Sunreef 80 Eco showcases green luxury

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Sunreef 80 Eco showcases green luxury

August 4, 2022
5:05 pm

Set to premiere at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, the 80 Eco showcases the builder’s groundbreaking green tech, from ultra-thin solar panels on the hulls, superstructure and mast to a hydrogeneration system, ultra-light lithium batteries and ultra-efficient air-conditioning. By François Trégouët.

Pictured sailing in Dubai, the Sunreef 80 Eco offers a silent, vibration-free cruising experience

In its 20 years of constructing high-end custom catamarans, Sunreef has built a unique and enviable place in the world of multihulls.

Founded by Frenchman Francis Lapp, the Polish brand has made a global name for itself for its large and luxurious catamarans – and is now combining these assets with eco-friendly technology. So, is the innovative Sunreef 80 Eco trying to solve an impossible equation? We went in search of the answer in the waters of the Gulf.

In the Dubai Marina district, near the artificial islands of Palm Jumeirah, Sunreef’s first Eco sailing cat fits perfectly into its environment. Everything in Dubai is about excess, whether it’s the length of the pontoons or the relentless heat, but we arrive at the 80 Eco in a small car – electric, of course.

Photovoltaic cells are integrated into the hull topsides, superstructure and mast

Lapp is the owner of the yacht, naming it Marie-Joseph in tribute to his parents, with his family travelling to the UAE from France for this special launch event. The catamaran is worth the trip, exhibiting electric propulsion, intelligent energy management and new solar panel technology.

The shipyard’s green tech is most evident in the photovoltaic cells integrated into the metallic navy-blue hull and superstructure, which shine like a thousand lights under the Gulf sun.

MONITORING ALL SYSTEMS

At either the lower helm or on the flybridge, the large touch screens allow you to control and monitor all on-board functions, from the two 180kW electric motors to the opening and closing of the electric curtains. The ergonomics and reactivity of the interfaces really are a credit to the shipyard.

The flybridge includes a helm station, loose seats and two treadmills

Lapp initially worked in Poland in electricity for the construction industry and his experience in the field has helped Sunreef pioneer onboard technology. Three years and six months after presenting the electric Sunreef 60 sailing yacht E in Cannes, we can see how successfully the technology has been mastered.

What’s more, operating everything is intuitive. Monitoring of the main battery bank, composed of five lithium units of 183 Ah at 600V each, is the cornerstone of the system. State of charge, discharge, temperature, voltage, consumption – all the information is immediately accessible and easily readable in figures or graphs.

Sunset on the flybridge

With fingertip control, you can switch to the page for the two electric motors. Like the batteries, whose compartment is air-conditioned, they’re monitored by thermal cameras that detect any abnormal rise in temperature. The interface also allows monitoring of diesel tanks, fresh water, waste water, pumps, lighting, navigation lights and so on.

Delivering a catamaran that’s both innovative and reliable was a major challenge. Many functions incorporate redundancy, with one piece of equipment in use and another on standby, but immediately available. This is the case with the inverter, working off the 24V batteries to power lighting, electronics and blinds.

The foredeck offers a full-beam outdoor terrace with sunken seating

Somewhat incongruously, the boat also has two generators as a safety backup, although they hadn’t been used so far, according to the skipper. In the event of the batteries’ amperage dropping too low, a generator would start automatically. Manually switched on for a demonstration, it’s inaudible in its double cocoon.

SOLAR COVERAGE

On board the Sunreef 80 Eco, the company’s engineers have managed to install 1,720sqft (160sqm) of solar panels and this is the first yacht featuring the technology across the hull topsides and around the carbon mast, which is conductive. It’s a real technological achievement, described as a revolution by the shipyard.

The huge hydraulic platform can be raised to cockpit level

In addition to covering an exceptional area, these panels have unique characteristics. They’re less than a millimetre thick, as strong as the composite hull, flexible, relatively light at 0.3 lbs per square foot (1.5kg/sqm) and efficient.

As no existing solar technology met such demanding specifications, Sunreef embarked on a new business by designing – and now manufacturing – their own photovoltaic cells. The connections, the installation, and the way to replace any cells in the event of damage are all jealously guarded secrets.

The aft cockpit makes the most of the almost 38ft beam, with a large dining table and a day bed to starboard

At anchor, when conditions are good during the day, the energy produced by the solar panels on the Sunreef 80 Eco can surpass the consumption of the boat, even with the air-conditioning on. The charging intensity, due only to solar energy, can theoretically reach 20kW.

HEADING OUT

As we come off the dock, the absolute silence and the total lack of vibration offer a new sensation on board. Instead, we hear the soft notes of a virtuoso pianist playing live in the immense saloon, the live music highlighting the yacht’s noiseless performance. Furthermore, a hydrogeneration system can add to the on-board charging systems.

The saloon is flanked by two huge C-shaped sofas and surrounded by huge windows, ensuring the interior is bathed in natural light

The 5ft 3in-high windows, the aft bay window opening to a width of more than 10ft and the cameras in the mast offering a bird’s eye view of the platform allow piloting from the lower helm station, which is on starboard side. But it’s from the flybridge that, with his fingertips, the skipper plays with the two motors and the bow thruster.

Heading out to the first anchorage under motor, we reached 10 knots at full power. More reasonably, the cruising speed is around seven knots. The consumption is then 30kW per engine and the electronic displays assure us we have 8hrs of full autonomy without any recharging.

A huge table can be set up to seat as many as 15 guests

Apart from the aft hydraulic platform, everything on board is electric, from the winches to the furling of the headsails and the cooker hobs.

Given that the most ecological way to travel is under sail, the fully-battened mainsail is traditionally mounted on batten cars and not a furler. The expected performance under sail in light winds is modest, but the waterline length ensures it averages above 10 knots if the wind exceeds 15 knots.

CUSTOM-MADE INTERIOR

As always with boats from the Gdansk manufacturer, the layout inside is entirely modular, both in the distribution of volumes and in the decor. With thick carpeting, noble materials and careful lighting, we are firmly in the world of luxury that seduces both celebrities – from tennis legend Rafael Nadal to F1 star Fernando Alonso – and more discreet owners.

Forward is the lower helm and a bar, as the main galley is in the port hull

Invariably, aboard a catamaran with the dimensions of a tennis court, the space and volumes are impressive, starting from the aft cockpit and into the vast saloon, which is flanked by two large C-shaped sofas. There’s enough space between them to set up a large dining table. Heading forward, you pass the helm and the bar on the way to the foredeck or forward terrace.

There are multiple options for the layout of each hull. On this unit, the galley occupies the aft end of the port side, while forward are a guest cabin and the owner’s suite, both accessible via a second companionway.

The cabins offer incredible levels of luxury

In the starboard hull, there are three cabins including one for the crew. The night zone offers controlled temperature, absolute silence, high-end bedding, marble in the bathrooms and a sea view through the large windows.

Up on the flybridge, the 360-degree view is impressive, and under way, the apparent wind is quickly noticeable. On the other hand, at anchor it will be particularly solicited.

Luxurious materials are evident in the bathrooms

Under its rigid roof (covered with solar panels), the flybridge hosts a helm, a saloon area for 10 guests, an outdoor galley, a lounge with modernist armchairs and even two treadmills. Too bad these run on electricity instead of producing it!

www.sunreef-yachts.com

www.sunreef-yachts-eco.com

Note: The original article was supplied by Multihulls World and appeared in YACHT STYLE Issue 66.

Ahpo’s Monaco debut reflects Chinese heritage

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Ahpo’s Monaco debut reflects Chinese heritage

July 28, 2022
5:36 pm

Lürssen’s spectacular 115m Ahpo makes her debut at Monaco Yacht Show in September and, if the syllables are separated to Ah Po, she may be more widely recognised as perhaps the first superyacht with a real Chinese name.
Words: Bruce Maxwell
Photos: Guillaume Plisson

Sleek, stylish lines are used to project a powerful profile, reminiscent of her 86m predecessor Quattroelle

The owner, an experienced yachtsman born in the Caribbean of part-Chinese descent, has told the world’s largest superyacht yard Lürssen that Ahpo is “the phonetic pronunciation of the Chinese pictogram meaning Grand Lady”. In Chinese dialects Ahpo can also translate as Grandma, and is used in various other Stately Lady senses.

Wealthy Chinese own a whole fleet of superyachts, kept in Asia-Pacific and elsewhere, but they began by calling them Asean Lady and Vanguard, and then a spectrum of names including White Rabbit, La Baronessa, Sea Shaw, Elysium, Saluzi and Zen. There are many other renowned vessels in Asia alone.

White Rabbit and Saluzi refer to fêted animals in Chinese folklore, but no private yacht owners, to our knowledge, have so far used an actual Chinese name for their vessels.

Nuvolari Lenard handled exterior and interior design

A prior connection to Ahpo’s present Caribbean-cum-Canadian owner is the Singapore and Malaysian developer David Eng, who back in 1998 built the 60m La Baronessa now Pearl in Wisconsin. It was the largest private aluminium motor yacht in the world.

His captain was the son of a Norwegian seafarer and a Borneo princess, who went barefoot on the bridge, and like David took up golf. I was among those who headed off into the Great Lakes, clutching our Smithsonian histories of the region. Also aboard was a handsome young man called Dan Lenard, representing the new naval architecture and yacht design outfit Nuvolari Lenard, based in Venice.

David presently owns the 52m Elysium, often cruising the azure Andaman Sea off Phuket in Thailand. It was previously called Quantum of Solace in John Staluppi’s long line of yachts named after James Bond films. The fledgling Nuvolari Lenard, meanwhile, rapidly climbed the ranks to become one of the industry’s highest-regarded designers.

A spacious salon

They later caught the eye of Ahpo’s owner, as did Lürssen, and at the 2013 Monaco Yacht Show all three presented an earlier combined effort, the 86m Quattroelle. She was immaculate, and the name again hinted at esoteric thinking. It means Four Ls, and those Ls were Love, Life, Liberty and Luxury.

Fast forward to 2022 and the new Ahpo, 115m overall, is the centrepiece of the Lürssen display at Monaco Yacht Show. Nuvolari Lenard are again the chosen exterior and interior designers. Ahpo is available for charter in the Caribbean in winter and the Med in summer, through Moran Yacht and Ship, the substantial American agency which supervised the build on behalf of the owner, with whom they have a long-standing relationship. The rate is a relatively attractive €2.5m a week.

She has accommodation for 16 guests in eight immense staterooms, and four staff cabins for security, a nanny, or other auxiliary staff. Altogether 36 crew are carried.

A lovely protected winter garden which can be arranged for summer or winter conditions

Notable amenities include a two-story owner’s apartment, and an enormous beach club, hammam, plunge pool, sauna, massage room and beauty salon. Her forward helideck is commercially compliant, and available for use in charters.

“For us,” says Peter Lürssen, “the task was to build a motor yacht for a repeat client, an upgrade from his 86m Lürssen. He has many years of owning and chartering yachts behind him, and required top-notch design and engineering as well as sea-going comfort for his family, guests and crew.”

The early brief for the interior was to link all the elements of nature, harmoniously balanced throughout the yacht, with a pallet of colourful and sophisticated materials. Flowers and plants are a distinct theme on board, a favourite of the owner’s wife. The outcome is a stylish, grown-up environment with beautiful bespoke pieces of furniture framed against a more muted, tasteful background.

Beach Club and Wellness Centre astern have imaginative layouts using contemporary mosaic tiles and premium woods

The 205sqm beach club and wellness area on the lower deck has real impact and is a fitting place for guests to step aboard. Beyond the transom door, a large bamboo grove is encased in backlit frosted glass, which forms a stunning backdrop to a stylish bar on one side and a luxurious massage room on the other.

In contrast to this zen atmosphere is an explosion of coloured mosaic tiles which make up the hammam and day head, as well as the jacuzzi and plunge pool that form the central focus.

When at anchor, an open sea terrace means guests can enjoy their own private living room at water level thanks to a contemporary sofa and coffee table set-up. Further forward is a luxurious 12-seater cinema, complete with proper armchairs and a bespoke wallpaper that replicates the mosaic design of the spa.

An 8m pool has counter-current flows for serious swimmers

Just down the hall is one of the yacht’s most pleasantly surprising areas, a glass walkway through the engine room. This futuristic addition allows the owners and guests to view the impressive engines and mechanical set-up.

Above on the main deck, a large conference room aft boasts as its centrepiece a beautiful custom table with an antique map of Jamaica engraved in bronze and surrounded by deep blue resin sitting under an eye-catching crystal chandelier. Sliding doors allow this to be a contained, private working environment. When desired, the doors open to reveal the main salon, an elegant, formal space with a self-playing Steinway piano.

Further forward, another set of doors open into the formal dining room. Having these three distinct areas together on the same deck means that as well as somewhere to relax and unwind, Ahpo is also a functional working environment where one’s business and pleasure can co-exist without crossing paths.

The grand staircase depicts an olive tree, and a striking crystal sculpture hangs from the ceiling

Also on this deck is the bespoke wine display with individual, walk-in sections that can be tempered accordingly. This was requested right in the initial layout, and provides an interesting talking point among guests.

The centre of the yacht is dominated by a grand staircase, accessible at all guest levels. The staircase itself represents a path and depicts an olive tree that grows up to the sky, surrounded by cranes and other nature-themed decor.

A striking crystal sculpture hangs from the ceiling, composed of falling feathers, each built by hand. The accent marbles change on each deck, acting as a subtle map of Blu Onyx, Green J’adore and Grey Lilac, with the floor always Calacatta Borghini and White Onyx for the petals, complemented by a bronze balustrade.

Extensive master suite is spread over two levels and can be kept completely private, even if guests are arriving on the foredeck helipad

The owner’s deck takes a different theme. Its informal lounge is contemporary and convivial, with a colourful interpretation of the universe in the carpet and a striking latticed wood pattern running throughout. Three white curved sofas create a focal entertaining space, while a bespoke bar and a games table caters to guests of all ages.

On the aft deck, an enormous custom 16-seater dining table stands proud within a winter garden that can be completely open or closed to the elements thanks to a complex set of sliding and folding glass doors. This ensures that the space can be used to entertain and relax with family and friends in any weather and at any time of year, ensuring one of the great joys of owning a yacht isn’t confined to traditional summer seasons.

Lots of greenery and rattan furniture is the theme, evoking a bygone golden era in a stylish and fresh way. Past the dining area and the second set of sliding doors is an area dominated by two semicircles of comfortable, informal sofas, providing ample space for everyone to come together after a meal and relax or take in the sunsets and sunrises.

Both bathrooms feature remarkable tubs, hers in rose gold and copper

Directly above on the upper deck is the swimming pool, and by no means a token one. At over 8m long and 1.2m depth, plus a counter-current system, it has been designed specifically for swimming, not simply cooling off.

For those who want just a quick dip, there is a self-contained jacuzzi on one side of the pool with large sun pad seating flanking the other side. A large bar and relaxed low-level seating make this a favourite for informal family days.

Also on this deck is full service gym, one of the largest on any yacht, with multiple machines and equipment and stunning views out over the water on both sides.

The final aft deck space, on the bridge deck, has been left unencumbered, making it a completely flexible area. Open to the sun, it can also be protected by casual fabric shades. Moveable furniture and sun loungers can be placed here or it can be left open as both a sunrise yoga platform and midnight dance floor.

Forward on this deck is the bridge itself. Rare to have this high up, it provides the crew with unparalleled views for manoeuvring the 115m-long, 18m-wide yacht. Designed more like a guest space than a traditional crew area with premium woods and leathers, it is smart and high tech.

Another elegant salon has a self-playing Steinway grand piano

The unique location also means the ship’s office and captain’s cabin can be together and away from the guest areas, and enables perhaps Ahpo’s most standout, innovative feature, the duplex owner’s apartment. This is made up of a large 245sqm master cabin on the owner’s deck and a 95sqm panoramic salon on the upper deck above, joined together by a grand, private staircase.

The owner’s cabin is spacious and cosy all at once. The master bed’s custom fabric headboard replicates the mosaic found in the master bathrooms and represents the maple tree leaves and blue birds which recur in the room décor. A custom-designed breakfast table in the same tinted lacewood timber as the rest of the room and mother of pearl sits at the front, while two reclining sofas flank either side of the bed.

The private deck space here is similarly cosy. A semi-circle sofa and coffee table face out to sea on recessed balconies on each side, cocooned into a quiet corner thanks to glass bulwarks.

Back in the owner’s suite, his and her bathrooms and dressing rooms up the ante with impressive and ornate mosaic patterns and bold marbles.

In both bathrooms, there are impressive freestanding tubs, crafted by hand and themed black and gold for his and rose gold and copper for her. Both bathrooms have crystal chandeliers which match the colours of the rooms.

An immaculate setting for more formal dining

The lobby of the master cabin also follows Ahpo’s distinct theme of trees and nature with two glass columns engraved with maple leaves and with a red maple tree inside flanking the entrance hallway which leads to the staircase and the salon above.

The panoramic salon is in the area traditionally given over to the master cabin, forward on the upper deck, and it enjoys 180-degree views over the bow. Two beautiful, custom desks flank each end of the salon, turning the room into a private office if so desired. This means that there is a clear delineation between places to work and places to sleep, if the owners want to have a private external meeting that it is kept separate from the sleeping quarters.

“The owners are extremely happy with this solution. It suits them and their lifestyle very well,” says Carlo Nuvolari. “It was an unusual design idea that we decided to implement and they are pleased with the outcome.”

There are seven guest cabins on board with two on the owner’s deck, four on the main deck and one on the lower deck. The two cabins on the owner’s deck are designated for specific family members and enjoy their own colour themes of pink and green, chosen by the family to distinguish the two.

“The owner was very interested in every detail, and was always close to the project,” says Peter Lürssen. “He visited the shipyard as often as he could and between his visits was kept up to date on progress by his representative at the shipyard.”

Paradise is subjective, but when there is so much thought and design put into each space, it is hard to argue that paradise hasn’t been found on a yacht such as Ahpo.

www.lurssen.com

Lucy offers sports car looks on a superyacht scale

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Lucy offers sports car looks on a superyacht scale

July 14, 2022
5:25 pm

One of the sleekest aluminium superyachts released in recent years, Tecnomar’s Evo 120 has proven a popular model in Asia and the newly launched Lucy is available through Camper & Nicholsons.

Lucy is the newest hull from the Tecnomar Evo 120 series

With its clients now including Conor McGregor, Tecnomar has been fighting hard in recent years to be front of mind when it comes to fast, sleek and stylish motor yachts. It has been working. The Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 – inspired by the Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 sports car – was a much-hyped partnership with the iconic Italian sports car brand.

And when the first hull of the 60-knot speedster was launched last year, McGregor announced he was the owner, just a couple of months after the motor-mouthed Irishman topped Forbes’ annual list of the world’s highest-paid athletes.

Two units of the Evo 120 have already headed to Asia

The 63-footer is a new addition to a portfolio that also includes the Evo 55, a 40-knot model with Volvo IPS engines that has come to Asia. However, the Tecnomar model that has recently made the most impact in this region is the Evo 120, with hull one touring multiple countries in Asia including Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand.

In fact, two units of the Evo 120 are in Asia, while Lucy (click for more details) was recently launched in Marina di Carrara, where Tecnomar is an anchor brand of The Italian Sea Group along with Admiral, while Perini Navi is a new addition to the TISG family.

STYLISH & STRONG

While not as fast as her smaller sisters, the Evo 120 is similarly notable for its astonishing exterior design by the shipyard’s ‘Style Centre’ (Tecnomar Centro Stile). Also inspired by the car industry, she flows elegantly from back to front with long lines and shallow curves, and extended swathes of glazing. It’s sports-car looks on a superyacht scale.

The foredeck includes a two-level lounging area, while a Williams jet tender is included

However, her slender, ultra-modern silhouette belies an 8m beam, which contributes to large outdoor deck spaces and 250GT of volume. Camper & Nicholsons is the Central Agency for the sale of Lucy, having already been appointed late last year to market Tecnomar and Admiral in mainland China and Hong Kong.

Carmen Lau, a Senior Advisor for the historic brokerage house that’s celebrating its 240^th anniversary this year, says the Evo 120 makes an impression wherever she goes.

“People always notice her futuristic exterior,” says Lau, one of Asia’s most successful superyacht brokers. “The Evo 120 is very popular in Asia because of the aggressive exterior as well as the many indoor and outdoor areas for entertaining guests.”

The flybridge jacuzzi is surrounded by sunpads on three sides

The Evo 120 is also distinguished by the fact its hull is made of aluminium, which is lighter than steel and stiffer, stronger and lighter than fibreglass, yet not often used on a 37m flybridge motor yacht and typically used for low production numbers. Lau believes the aluminium hull, which contributes to a shallow draft of just over 4ft, is among the model’s strongest assets.

“It’s rare to find a 120-footer with an aluminium hull. The biggest advantage of an aluminium hull is the weight and longevity. It’s about 30 per cent lighter than a fibreglass boat of a similar size, so this results in better performance and improves the fuel efficiency,” she says.

“Also, aluminium yachts have a longer lifespan, as they don’t wear out or deteriorate over time. A well maintained aluminium craft can retain its value for a long time.”

ENTERTAINMENT HUBS

It’s also clear that the Evo 120 is to be enjoyed. Her curved swim platform offers a nice place to laze by the water, while the almost semi-circular garage holds a Williams SportJet 435 tender and two jetskis that can be deployed by a 1,200kg-capacity crane.

The aft ends of the flybridge, main deck and lower deck are all curved

Shallow steps lead up to the aft cockpit, which features loose seats around an oblong table and a curved sofa, while aft is a large sunbathing area on top of the garage. However, the focal point is the stylish, rounded outdoor bar with fitted stools, which sits centrally before the saloon doors. There’s more outdoor lounging space on the foredeck, which is up a few steps and has a two-level sunpad.

However, it’s the flybridge that really underlines the yacht’s focus on entertaining in style. Starboard stairs from the cockpit lead you straight to the aft jacuzzi, a square design surrounded on three sides by angular sunpads.

The aft cockpit has a curved sofa facing the outdoor bar

The portside sunpads lead to a sofa facing a flexible table, while forward is an angular bar and wet bar with fridge icemaker and optional grills. To starboard is a large sofa, more for lounging than sitting, and it’s conveniently accompanied by a champagne glacette. Forward is the semi-raised pilothouse, cleverly concealed within the superstructure.

GRAND INTERIOR

Back on the main deck, the saloon is accessed by doors either side of the cockpit bar and welcomes guests to a calming, luxurious ambience. Top-of-the-range marble is among high-end materials and a special handmade silver-leaf ceiling exemplifies the sophisticated, detailed décor.

Forward (above) and aft (below) views of the saloon

The lounge starts with a forward-facing sofa and has longer sofas on each side, all with a good view of the 75-inch TV integrated into the forward bulkhead. Like the exterior, the custom furniture is inspired by automotive design.

The two side hallways lead to separate staircases – port to the flybridge, starboard to the lower deck – and both carry on to the formal dining room, which has a round dining table for 10 complete with ‘Lazy Susan’, designed to appeal to clients in Asia. There’s plenty of storage space on either side including for wine coolers.

Designed with Asia-based clients in mind, the formal dining room has a round dining table for 10

A starboard door leads forward to the galley area, which includes the crew mess, laundry and stairs down to the three crew cabins in the bow.

Guest accommodation on the lower deck includes the full-beam owner’s suite midships, which has an aft-facing bed and twin-sink bathroom to port and a roomy lounge area with vanity table to starboard. On the starboard side of the central hallway is a twin en-suite guest cabin with pullman bed and en-suite bathroom, and then there’s the VIP cabin, which has a forward-facing bed and large bathroom.

The full-beam owner’s suite midships has an aft-facing bed on port side

On the port side is another of the yacht’s distinguishing features: a spacious, custom-designed massage room that leads forward to an elegant sauna as well as a shower area. If needed, the massage room can be converted to a cabin, which enables the yacht to accommodate nine guests.

Lucy is offered for sale with a full two-year warranty and has an asking price of €15.6 million (about US$15.6 million), while cryptocurrency payment is also available.

A custom-designed sauna and shower room is to port on the lower deck

“Lucy is very suitable for an owner looking for a yacht with good entertainment areas, such as a separate dining area, a full massage and sauna room, a well-equipped sun deck with jacuzzi, and aft cockpit with a bar,” says Lau, who says the yacht is likely to spend at least the summer in the Mediterranean.

“Soon after she was listed, I received a lot of enquiries from the US and Europe. There’s only a handful of new yachts available in the market now, so Lucy is one of the few that allows a client to enjoy their yacht this summer.”

To see more details on Lucy on the Camper & Nicholsons website, visit: https://bit.ly/3yHacDU

www.camperandnicholsons.com

Bali 4.4 extends the winning formula

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Bali 4.4 extends the winning formula

June 30, 2022
3:03 pm

Designed by Catana Group boss Olivier Poncin with an interior by Lasta Design Studio, the new Bali 4.4 rounds out the French builder’s modern series of sailing catamarans, which range from the 40ft Catspace Sail and 4.2 to the larger 4.6, 4.8 and 5.4 models. By Emmanuel Van Deth.

The Bali 4.4 had her world premiere at this year’s International Multihull Show

With an overall length topping 44ft and a beam over 24ft, the new Bali 4.4 is in some ways a replacement for the 4.3 but more for the 4.5, the very first model in the Bali range. Aboard this catamaran, which is more than ever dedicated to comfort and family vacations, all the attributes of the Bali DNA are to be found – tilting door, opening side bay windows, rigid foredeck and large chilled capacity.

As a bonus, with the size of this model being closer to the 4.6 than the 4.2 among the current Bali range, there’s a forward door, a flybridge and aft platform. Acting as the rear façade of the deckhouse, the large ‘Bali door’ on the 4.4 is 11ft 6in across and 6ft 3in high – and opens electrically in under 25 seconds. The entire saloon is then open to the rear, while the door at the front leads to the foredeck.

The 4.4 fills out Bali’s modern range of six sailing models

Although the deck layout has been designed for relaxation with a maximum area of rigid deck space due to the integral foredeck and the high-low platform that extends to the sugarscoops, it remains functional, with fluid circulation everywhere. Furthermore, the natural ventilation is particularly effective – or at least it would be in warm weather.

Instead, we tested this new Bali in La Rochelle in sub-zero temperatures, which meant much of the time we didn’t enjoy the ‘open space’ mode, which is one of the big attractions of every Bali model. At sea, we kept everything closed, entering the boat via the door within the Bali door, yet the winter configuration proved very homely as the extra-large saloon and its big windows create a warm environment.

Like all Bali models, the 4.4 features a solid foredeck that expands social space

Underfoot, the composite sandwich is very stiff, proof of careful and generously sampled construction. Up front, the hard deck is entirely covered with sunbeds. It looks good and provides an immense amount of social space, although opening the lockers is more complicated with all the covers. The aft cockpit is home to a large, almost 9ft-wide bench seat, forward of the sugarscoops and the hydraulic platform.

SUITABLE FOR ALL SEASONS

We entered the Chenal des Minimes channel under engine, our model featuring the optional twin 57hp Yanmars. It was immediately apparent that the motors propel the boat with little effort, given we were up to about 7 knots at 2,150rpm aided only a little by the northeast wind, as we hardly noticed any difference when we turned and headed into it.

Up on the flybridge, accessible from both sides, manoeuvring is simple: everything happens from the helm station, which is offset to port and neighbours a raised L-shaped sofa to starboard. Aft is a lounging area surrounded by padded rails, while the designers wanted to limit the height of the boom. In fact, the lazy bag is easily accessible, and the mainsail area is larger.

Despite the cold, the halyards and sheets manage to run over their respective sheaves, round the winches and through the clutches. As soon as the mainsail was hoisted and the Code 0 unfurled, we trimmed the traveller and the sheets. With the wind oscillating between 8-15 knots on the beam, our boat speed was 7-8 knots with a few peaks at 9 knots during little gusts.

The Bali door raises electronically to connect the cockpit and saloon

When the main is set just right, you can clearly feel the Bali 4.4 is just waiting to be sailed. The Code 0, promoted by the yard, brings an obvious bonus up to about 70° off the wind. It won’t go higher because the sheeting angle logically passes outside the shrouds. To get closer to the wind, we rolled up the Code 0 and unfurled the self-tacking solent. This reduces the headsail area from 796sqft to 452sqft.

Despite a sail-area-to-weight ratio of 8.68sqm/t, which is more favourable than the 7.07 of the Bali 4.2, the difference in punch is clearly felt. When we came up to 50/55° off the true wind, boat speed barely exceeded 5 knots, leeway was noticeable, and the sail trim needed to be quite precise. In such conditions, not ideal for relying purely on sail, one or two of the engines can be used to help you maintain course.

OPEN SPACE IN AND OUT

During most of our day of sailing, we stayed warm inside, the perfect view over the water allowing us to keep a close watch and the autopilot remote control did the rest. Obviously, some changes in angle of the wind coming off the coast did force some of the crew up on to the flybridge to make adjustments.

The saloon has over 7ft of headroom in areas and the option of two lounge chairs to starboard

For the rest, we were able to taste oysters – the famous Marennes d’Oléron, of course – while making good speed towards the island of Ile-d’Aix. The level of comfort inside the saloon is enhanced by its generous headroom, which reaches up to 7ft 3in in places. Far from being exclusively reserved for tropical or summer use, the Bali ‘open space’ concept shows it’s also comfortable in less favourable climates.

The galley features a large L-shaped work surface complemented by a sideboard and a plus-sized fridge-freezer that is another Bali standard. The recess for the helm station is integrated into the whole, although the table in this area can be bigger on the four-cabin charter version. Forward, to starboard, a chart table is fitted.

The galley to port offers storage, cooking appliances, sinks and countertop space on three sides

The ‘Elegance’ finish on our test boat included upgraded upholstery, armrests, two club chairs and integrated bar and leather handles for the storage spaces, all nice touches on a model that featured the three-cabin owner’s layout downstairs.

AT HOME IN THE HULLS

The port hull is entirely dedicated to the owner and is accessed down five steps. The master suite includes a big double bed configured as an island bed, a dressing table/desk, a huge bathroom, large windows in the hull, two opening portlights, and numerous storage spaces. It has it all.

In the owner’s version, the master suite occupies most of the port hull

The companionway to the starboard hull has a sturdy handrail, which is very useful in choppy seas. The aft en-suite cabin has the same dimensions as on the port side, with a minimum headroom of 6ft 5in.

The 4ft 9in-wide bed in the forward en-suite cabin is a little narrower than at the stern and much higher, lying almost 3ft above the floor as opposed to just under 2ft in the aft cabin. Both rooms benefit from large hull windows, great ventilation and plenty of storage space. In fact, all three cabins are plus points.

Forward view of the master suite

Like most Bali models, the 4.4 is designed for boaters who want a platform for enjoying life on the water, a floating home that can be moved from anchorage to anchorage, and even from one ocean to another.
www.bali-catamarans.com

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