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Motoryacht, superyacht, sports yacht, AI, AB Yachts Maiora Yachts, Next Yacht Group, AB 110

Next Yacht Group launches AI yachting system

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Next Yacht Group launches AI yachting system

November 6, 2025
10:40 am

The parent company of AB Yachts and Maiora has debuted its new integrated AI system on the AB 110.

AB 110

Italy’s Next Yacht Group debuted its new integrated AI system on board an AB 110 at the 2025 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, where live demos showcased the new system and its partner apps, My AB and My Maiora.

Having demonstrated the technology on the 33m superyacht, the parent company of AB Yachts and Maiora has confirmed that the system will be rolled out across the Viareggio shipyard’s entire range of yachts by 2026.

Giorgio Mattei, Next Yacht Group’s Deputy Chairman, said: “For the owner, luxury means simplicity and control. With this highly innovative project, we are redefining the onboard experience.

“The AI provides verifiable answers, secure commands and deep integration with the yacht’s systems. In our development roadmap, we plan to introduce new features and services such as always-on voice activation with a dedicated wake word, and predictive maintenance.”

Created in collaboration with Italian firm AI Technologies and integrated with onboard systems by YES Group, the Next AI-Integrated System is a first-of-its-kind platform installed directly on board.

Described as a ‘digital concierge’, the AI assistant streamlines the yacht’s various systems and allows owners and crew to control on board settings such as lighting, temperature and entertainment. It also offers access to operational data such as fuel and water levels, energy consumption, alarms and maintenance schedules.

While connectivity is an option for remote access, the system can run fully offline, ensuring optimum security and reliability in any location.

Mattei explained: “We’re offering an assistant that works anytime, anywhere – even in the middle of the ocean, without internet – safely, continuously and reliably. It’s an Artificial Intelligence that belongs to the yacht and its family, not to the cloud. Our approach is local first: data, models and decisions remain on board.”

nextyachtgroup.com

Excess debuts in Thailand

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Excess debuts in Thailand

November 6, 2025
10:29 am

Represented by Primus Marine, the Groupe Beneteau brand has splashed in the Kingdom, as the country’s first Excess 11 set sail in the Andaman Sea.

Primus Marine hosted the Thailand premiere of the Excess brand in Phuket as a new Excess 11 catamaran set sail in the Andaman Sea following its arrival from France.

Primus Marine has represented Excess in Thailand since late 2024 and was meticulous in its preparation ahead of the event, which was held at Ao Po Grand Marina and attended by Hong Kong-based Cosmas Grelon, the catamaran brand’s Asia-Pacific Sales Manager.

The Primus Marine team invested a significant amount of manpower and resources to make the event a great success. Prior to the big day, final checks of the Excess 11 and a morning sea trial were conducted to ensure everything was ready to welcome guests for the Thailand premiere.

The landmark event began with local media photographing and videoing the Excess 11 in the marina in the morning. As guests arrived, the Primus Marine team busied themselves with showcasing the vessel’s amazing features. As dusk approached, guests boarded the Excess 11 to chase after the sunset, providing an excellent opportunity to experience the vessel’s performance at sea.

“Thailand is one of Asia’s top sailing destinations, featuring diverse sailing grounds, gorgeous beaches and warm waters, offering year-round sailing opportunities,” Primus Marine stated.

“Whether joining a charter fleet or sailing for personal pleasure, the Excess 11 is the ideal model for exploring the welcoming beach resorts or secluded islets in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. It is capable of serious bluewater cruising, and its compact design and versatile interiors cater to the hybrid sailing lifestyle of new-generation sailors.”

Over 200 units of the Excess 11 – the brand’s entry model – have been built at the builder’s Vendée shipyard, while in Asia-Pacific the catamaran has cruised in French Polynesia, Australia, mainland China, Japan and now Thailand.

In 2025, Excess launched the Excess 11 Hybrid version to meet the growing demand for silent cruising and reduced emissions.

In 2026, the Excess 11 in Phuket is scheduled to appear at the fourth Thailand International Boat Show, which will be held at Phuket Yacht Haven from January 15-18.

Later in the year, an Excess 13 and the Excess 14 – a world premiere in 2025 – are expected to arrive in Thailand to further boost the brand’s presence in the country.

excess-catamarans.com

primus-marine.com

Camper & Nicholsons trio turns heads in Hong Kong

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Camper & Nicholsons trio turns heads in Hong Kong

November 6, 2025
10:19 am

From circumnavigation capability to onboard submersibles, the three superyachts shown by Camper & Nicholsons at this year’s Lantau Yacht Club Boat Show in Hong Kong showed quality in a variety of styles. Senior Advisor Carmen Lau divulges some of their highlights.
Words: Andrew Dembina

Global at the 2025 LYC Boat Show; Photo: Lantau Yacht Club

Camper & Nicholsons broke new ground at this year’s Lantau Yacht Club Boat Show – Festa Nautica, leading a record in-water display. The global brokerage presented three yachts over 100ft, including the 67m Global – currently the largest yacht based in the city.

The 37m Zeepaard and 33m Mirae, the only MCY 105 Skylounge built by Monte Carlo Yachts, rounded out the impressive trio, each represented by Camper & Nicholsons Senior Advisor Carmen Lau.

“We were proud to have such a strong line-up on display this year,” said Lau. “It was exciting to see a Hong Kong yacht show gaining momentum and steadily moving toward the international arena.”

Global began her life in 1982 as a commercial workboat, before being transformed by Shadow Marine in 2007 into one of the world’s first true support vessels. She has a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, twin 1,300hp Caterpillar engines and a range of 10,000nm at 10 knots.

Carmen Lau (far right) with guests at Lantau Yacht Club; Photo: Lantau Yacht Club

“Global was the first ‘yacht support vessel’ in the world, before the term had been used,” Lau said of the blue-hulled vessel, which was updated in 2023.

As visitors were quick to see, the yacht features an enormous, open aft lower deck, which leads into a double-height, climate-controlled hangar. Above is a certified helicopter platform.

“When Global chartered in Florida, some people used to charter her and park about eight supercars on the deck, then cruise to provinces and drive around there,” Lau said. “After the sale of Global to the current owner, we cruised her from Fort Lauderdale to Asia.”

Global in Hong Kong, showing her double-height, climate-controlled hangar; Photo: Camper & Nicholsons

The aft deck includes a 35-tonne crane that’s used to deploy the yacht’s many toys. The current line-up includes two 25ft tenders and two U-Boat Worx submersibles, a Cruise Sub 7 and a Super Yacht Sub 3, which have capacities for seven and three people respectively, and can both descend up to 300m.

Linda Peute-Sollie, the Sales Manager of U-Boat Worx, was invited from the Netherlands to answer questions about the multi-million-dollar submersibles, which Lau said are the only such models in the Asia-Pacific.

“People were excited to talk about them, asking, ‘How can there be two submersibles, however large the yacht is?’” Lau said. “They even have robotic arms that can be controlled to take samples. The U-Boat Worx submersibles, the crane and the huge, temperature-controlled hangar are rare features on any yacht.”

Aft view from the saloon to the helipad; Photo: Camper & Nicholsons

Global has 1,303GT of interior volume and is arranged on five levels. The current owner runs the yacht with a crew of 13 who enjoy spacious accommodation in the tank deck, while aft is the airy engine room.

The guest areas are concentrated in the forward third of the yacht, on the lower, main and upper decks. The forward lower deck includes a day lounge, cinema/briefing room and gym, as well as the galley and crew mess.

The main deck is home to six similar-sized guest cabins, five with double beds, one with twins, and each with a balcony. The primary social area is on the upper deck – forward of the helipad – and incorporates a saloon, dining suite, bar and library, while Global is topped by a bridge deck featuring the pilothouse.

Zeepaard has a 7,000nm range; Photo: Camper & Nicholsons

Camper & Nicholsons’ display also included the all-aluminium Zeepaard, built by the JFA shipyard in France in 2003 and extensively refitted in 2011. Featuring a cream-coloured hull, the explorer-style vessel has a crew of eight, is powered by twin Caterpillar 475hp engines, and berths in Hong Kong and the Philippines.

“Zeepaard is known for its long cruising range,” Lau pointed out. “Underway at eight knots you can go more than 7,000nm with fuel consumption at about 80 litres an hour, which is impressive fuel efficiency for a 37m yacht.”

Sporting European classic and nostalgic aesthetics, Zeepaard has an 8.2m beam and five cabins, is equipped with two 25ft tenders at the bow, and appears very well maintained.

Mahogany-finished saloon on Zeepaard; Photo: Camper & Nicholsons

“With the previous owner, Zeepaard received a Voyager’s Award after going around the world in an extended trip over about three years. The journey covered some 50,000nm and 39 countries,” Lau added.

“When the previous owner let her go, he felt very emotionally attached to her as their family had many lovely memories on board. We then relocated Zeepaard to Southeast Asia.”

The 2011 renovations included a new interior styling, Lau explained. “Modern mahogany-finish fittings were a contrast from the previous walnut. The owner also hired Van Cappellen Consultancy from the Netherlands to check the calibration of the noise and vibration level, so he added special sound shields on the generators. This boat is extremely quiet.”

Mirae, the world’s only MCY 105 Skylounge; Photo: Camper & Nicholsons

Completing the trio was the five-cabin Mirae, the MCY 105 Skylounge delivered in Italy in 2023 and notable for its enclosed flybridge and light blue-and-silver hull.

Under her original ownership and in as-new condition, she has twin 2,217hp MTU engines and is equipped for global cruising with tropical-grade air-conditioning, a shore power converter and Seakeeper stabilisers.

Renowned for superyacht designs, Nuvolari Lenard penned the exterior, interior and a layout that maximises light and space, across a 7.1m beam, while incorporating the shipyard’s signature interlocking portholes.

Mirae has an enclosed skylounge (pictured) in addition to the main-deck saloon

“Mirae is a standout yacht in every sense. She’s the only MCY 105 ever built with an enclosed skylounge, offering the kind of volume and versatility you’d expect from a much larger vessel. Her Nuvolari Lenard design captures that perfect balance between Italian sophistication and relaxed, contemporary living,” Lau said.

“What I love most is how her spaces transition effortlessly from day to night – from open-air dining with foldable balconies on both sides on the main deck to the intimate-evening setting surrounded by wraparound glass on the upper deck.

“She’s ideal for an owner who values style, comfort and all-season usability without compromise. Mirae embodies the modern spirit of yachting – elegant, innovative and ready to cruise anywhere in the

world.”

camperandnicholsons.com

For more details on Mirae and other yachts for sale by Camper & Nicholsons, click here

Maiora unveils 36 Exuma

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Maiora unveils 36 Exuma

October 30, 2025
4:14 pm

The Next Yacht Group brand has debuted its 36 Exuma, which offers lots of interior volume and fun-filled outdoor areas, plus triple-engine power to reach well over 30 knots.

Photo: Leonardo Andreoni

Maiora, a sister brand of AB Yachts within Italy’s Next Yacht Group, has debuted its new 36 Exuma, designed by Studio Quartostile with interiors by ACube Design. The four-level yacht has an overall length of 36.9m, a beam of 7.9m and a volume of 300GT.

Giorgio Mattei, Next Yacht Group’s Deputy Chairman, described the Maiora 36 Exuma as “a perfect balance of design, technology, and Italian style” which combines “outstanding performance with exceptional onboard liveability”.

Photo: Gionata Xerra

“With the Maiora 36 Exuma, we confirm the ongoing growth and consolidation of the Maiora range, strengthening our vision of yachting as the perfect blend of luxury, comfort and innovation, supported by design and construction excellence recognised worldwide,” Mattei added.

The streamlined profile has been designed with a sharp vertical bow to increase efficiency on the water, allowing the 36 Exuma to hit speeds of 33 knots under the power of triple MAN V12 engines. At a cruising speed of 10 knots, the 36 Exuma offers a range of 1,150nm.

Photo: Gionata Xerra

Aft, a spacious beach club with a large, aft-facing sunpad offers direct access to the water. A teak design element above the sunpad offers continuity from the beach club to the cockpit and saloon, a signature element of Maiora designs.

The interiors, which can host up to 12 guests and five crew, have been styled with wood and marble finishes in a neutral palette. The full-beam master suite is on the main deck and has an en-suite bathroom, private study and panoramic views, while the lower deck is home to the four guest cabins including two VIPs.

Photo: Gionata Xerra

The main entertaining spaces are in the main-deck saloon and on the upper deck, where the infinity door system and retractable windows allow the skylounge to be either fully opened for alfresco entertaining, or completely closed for a climate-controlled area.

Forward of the wheelhouse, a spa pool surrounded by sunpads and a suspended net at the bow offer relaxation spaces, while there’s also an island sunpad on the roof of the skylounge.

Photo: Gionata Xerra

Two water toy garages – able to carry a 6.25m tender, a jet-ski and a crane – are positioned aft of the guest cabins on the lower deck to reduce noise from the engine room.

Following the debut of the 36 Exuma at the 2025 Monaco Yacht Show, Maiora has confirmed that it will debut its next two new models, the M|30 and M|38, in 2026. The launch of the Italian brand’s flagship, the 42 Exuma, is set for 2027.

maiora.it

The Honours makes FLIBS debut

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The Honours makes FLIBS debut

October 30, 2025
2:26 pm

Angela Abshier, Francisca Cortés Solari and Rosie O’Donnell all received The Bowsprit Award at Pier Sixty-Six in Fort Lauderdale.

Angela Abshier, Francisca Cortés Solari and Rosie O’Donnell

Angela Abshier, founder of Sail to Shelter (USA), Francisca Cortés Solari, founder of Fundación MERI (Chile), and Rosie O’Donnell, project lead for Yachts for Science (UK), were each presented with The Bowsprit Award at the third edition of The Honours.

The event was again organised by The Superyacht Life Foundation, although after two years in association with the Monaco Yacht Show, the third edition was held in the US on the eve of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, at the newly inaugurated Pier Sixty-Six.

Angela Abshier

Abshier, based in California, founded Sail to Shelter in 2020 after realising that the enormous, high-performance sails retired from superyachts were often destined for landfill. Her non-profit gives these durable materials a second life as shelters and shade solutions for communities in need around the world, with the first donation coming from M5, the world’s largest single-masted sailing yacht.

“The sails that once harnessed the power of the wind are now providing protection from it,” Abshier said. “It’s proof that even the materials of this industry have the potential to serve a higher purpose. I’m deeply honoured that Sail to Shelter has found a home within the heart of the yachting community.”

Francisca Cortés Solari

Cortés Solari, Executive President of Philanthropy Cortés Solari and a Patron of Nature with the IUCN, has built one of Latin America’s most comprehensive philanthropic ecosystems, advancing climate action, biodiversity conservation, and education for sustainability.

Inspired by her experiences aboard her Chilean-built yacht Cachalote – conceived as a floating laboratory – she founded Fundación MERI in 2012 to protect fragile marine ecosystems through pioneering research and community engagement.

“The sea connects us all,” Cortés Solari said. “Through Fundación MERI, we’ve seen how science, when combined with education and respect for nature, can inspire entire communities to become guardians of the ocean. This recognition honours not just one project but a collective effort to protect life on earth.”

Rosie O’Donnell

As project lead for Yachts for Science, O’Donnell has transformed the way private vessels contribute to global discovery. By connecting superyachts with scientists seeking research platforms, the British sailor and rigger has turned luxury into logistics for good, enabling expeditions that have uncovered new species, expanded marine sanctuaries, and advanced understanding of ocean health.

“It’s about unlocking potential,” O’Donnell said. “Every yacht can become a vessel of discovery. When owners, crew and scientists come together, what we can achieve is extraordinary. The ocean still holds so many secrets, and I’m proud to be part of a movement helping to reveal them.”

Dilan Sarac, Executive Director of The Superyacht Life Foundation, concluded: “Tonight we celebrated not only three extraordinary women but also the boundless capacity of this industry to do good. Angela, Francisca and Rosie are proof that passion and purpose can coexist beautifully. Their stories remind us all why The Honours exists – to show that yachting can make an impact far beyond the water.”

The 2025 edition of The Honours was sponsored by AB Yachts, Maiora, Delta Marine, Feadship, Global Marine Travel, Lürssen, Preciosa and Robert Allen Law.

thehonours.org

Van der Valk starts building new flagship

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Van der Valk starts building new flagship

October 30, 2025
2:06 pm

The Dutch shipyard has begun construction on the 48m Project Zen, which is scheduled to launch in 2028.

Construction has officially begun on Project Zen, Van der Valk’s new 47.83m flagship. Penned by Guido de Groot Design, the all-aluminium motoryacht is scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of 2028.

Bram Kooltjes, Van der Valk’s Technical Director, said: “Project Zen will be the largest yacht we’ve built to date and more importantly, will exemplify everything a Van der Valk stands for.

“Crafted to the highest Dutch standards, she will showcase our ability to deliver a true custom design, developed from the ground up in close collaboration with the owners. Throughout the process, we’ve adapted every detail to reflect their vision, resulting in a truly bespoke dream yacht.”

With Van Oossanen Naval Architects working on the hull, the design and build process included lengthening the yacht from its original 36m concept to creating the biggest yacht ever built by the Dutch shipyard. “As Guido de Groot began shaping the general arrangement, it quickly became clear that we couldn’t quite fit everything in,” Kooltjes explained.

The 499GT flagship has been designed as a family-centric superyacht, with outdoor entertaining spaces including a large sea terrace with three fold-down bulwarks, a bow lounge with a spa pool, and a split-level sundeck with an alfresco saloon, wet bar and grill. Two garages at either end of the vessel will carry the collection of water toys, jetskis and tenders.

Indoors, the main saloon leads to a dining area with a show galley, which designer Guido de Groot calls “the heart” of the yacht, where the owner’s family “will regularly gather to enjoy meals”.

Project Zen will also feature a full-beam wellness area complete with a gym and yoga room, which Van der Valk Project Manager Arno de Wit described as “a standout element of the yacht “and “one of the key reasons the yacht grew in length”.

The full-metallic finish and exterior lines of Project Zen are inspired by the owner’s love of sports cars, while Van Oossanen’s fast displacement hull form contributes to a top speed of 17.5 knots and a transatlantic cruising range of 4,000nm at 10 knots.

“Project Zen is built on an entirely new platform, developed with efficiency as a top priority,” Guido de Groot stated. “The owner wanted a hull shape that would support smaller engines and maximise range. As top speed wasn’t a concern, we focused on a long, sleek form that also supports the yacht’s elegant styling.”

Project Zen is due to be the 27^th yacht launched by Van der Valk, following the 40m Project Evo set to splash in 2026.

vandervalkshipyard.com

Early confirmations for Hong Kong show

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Early confirmations for Hong Kong show

October 30, 2025
1:50 pm

British shipyards will have a strong presence at this year’s Hong Kong International Boat Show at Club Marina Cove in December.

Hong Kong International Boat Show

The Sunseeker 100 Yacht is scheduled to be among Asia-Pacific premieres at the 26^th Hong Kong International Boat Show, which will be held at Club Marina Cove in Sai Kung from December 4-7. Admission is free for the four-day event, which is supported by the Hong Kong Boating Industry Association.

The 100 Yacht will be displayed by DCH Marine, which represents Sunseeker, Saxdor and Williams across Asia-Pacific.

Sunseeker 100 Yacht

Andrea Frabetti, CEO at Sunseeker International, said: “We are proud to be returning to the Hong Kong International Boat Show alongside our distributor DCH Marine. The team has achieved remarkable growth this year, expanding their presence with new offices across Asia-Pacific.

“Their success is a testament to the increasing strength of the Sunseeker brand across the region, and we are delighted to showcase the iconic 100 Yacht at this show.”

The DCH Marine line-up is also expected to feature the Sunseeker 90 Ocean Enclosed as well as three Saxdor yachts: the flagship 400 GTC, 320 GTO and 270 GTO.

Princess Y72

Newly named Princess Yachts Hong Kong, formerly known as SunAzure NextWave Yachting, is expected to display a newly arrived Princess Y72 and other yachts by the British shipyard.

The four-day show will again have a strong display of yachts in the marina, while this year’s edition will introduce a special zone for marine equipment exhibitors and service providers. The show is open from 10am-6pm each day.

Theo Loock: People before product

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Theo Loock: People before product

October 30, 2025
12:13 pm

Managing Director of Robertson and Caine, builder of Leopard catamarans, Loock focused on the shipyard’s philosophy of craft, care and collaboration in his keynote speech at the first African Boating Conference.
Words: Maryanne Edwards; Photos: African Boating Conference

Theo Loock, Robertson and Caine

When Theo Loock, Managing Director of Robertson and Caine, took the stage at the sold-out African Boating Conference in Cape Town, his message was clear: boatbuilding in Africa is not just an industry – it’s a story of skill, pride and shared purpose.

As one of the continent’s largest and most successful yacht manufacturers, Robertson and Caine has become synonymous with the Leopard Catamarans brand, exporting luxury sailing and power catamarans to a global market that spans the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Americas, Asia and beyond.

This year, the company celebrated a major milestone, the launch of its 3,000th vessel, an achievement that speaks volumes about South African capability and consistency on the world stage.

“For us, boatbuilding is more than a craft. It’s a reflection of our values: respect, responsibility, reliability, innovation, teamwork and excellence,” Loock said. “This achievement represents more than just a number; it’s about the 3,000 families who have chosen Robertson and Caine over the past 34 years.”

One Team, One Vision

At the heart of that success is a philosophy Loock calls ‘R&C One Team’ – a people-first approach that underpins every stage of design, build and delivery. With over 2,600 team members, the company functions as a “learning organisation”, investing deeply in training and skills development to ensure that every catamaran launched in Cape Town meets the highest international standards.

“We build people who build award-winning catamarans, safely and sustainably,” Loock said. “Our team is the real engine of this company.”

That focus on people and process has earned R&C a reputation for reliability and innovation. From the aerodynamic hulls of the Leopard 53 Powercat to the seamless flow and natural light of its sailing catamarans, each vessel blends performance and comfort in a way that reflects both global trends and local ingenuity.

Cape Town: The Perfect Port

Loock’s presentation, ‘Boatbuilding in the African Context’, highlighted why Cape Town has become a leading location for yacht construction. With its deepwater port, skilled workforce and strong support infrastructure, the city has nurtured a thriving boatbuilding ecosystem.

Theo Loock, Robertson and Caine

Facilities like the V&A Waterfront and the Royal Cape Yacht Club play a vital role in this network, offering berthing, commissioning and export support for local manufacturers.

“The V&A’s partnership with the marine industry demonstrates how strategic collaboration can fuel both industry growth and job creation,” Loock said. “It’s a model that shows how private enterprise and infrastructure can work together to drive blue economy opportunities for Africa.”

Local suppliers also feature prominently in R&C’s success story. Longstanding partners such as Seascape Marine Services – which has supplied over 5,000 Yanmar engines to the shipyard over the past 35 years -– ensure that world-class quality remains accessible within South Africa.

Meanwhile, homegrown manufacturers like NCS South Africa, producing advanced polymers and composites, underscore the industrial maturity that underpins the sector.

An Industry on the Rise

Robertson and Caine is far from alone in its achievements. Loock’s talk generously spotlighted other South African builders shaping the global market, from Southern Wind, known for its high-performance carbon sailing yachts, to Two Oceans, Nexus, Royal Cape Catamarans, Forty Knots, Gemini Marine, Jacobs Bros and Hammer Yachts.

Together, these companies are redefining what it means to build boats in Africa: not as a niche or emerging industry but as a world-class manufacturing sector driven by expertise, resilience and creativity.

“The most beautiful boats in the world are being built here — by African hands, in Africa’s most beautiful city,” said Loock, closing his presentation with quiet pride.

In that statement lies the essence of the message – that Cape Town is more than a production hub. It’s a place where craftsmanship, community, and coastline combine to create vessels that sail far beyond the shores where they were made, carrying with them the spirit of a continent on the rise.

The Personal Touch

African Boating Conference Director, Veda Pretorius, and I were privileged to be invited by Marguerite Vockerodt, General Manager of Quality and Customer Relationships at Robertson & Caine, for a personal cruise through the V&A Waterfront aboard one of the company’s latest catamarans, a sleek new model being commissioned and readied for shipment to the USA.

Veda Pretorius, Marguerite Vockerodt and Maryanne Edwards

What an experience, and what a vessel. It’s immediately clear why these catamarans enjoy such global popularity. The ride offered not only a glimpse of outstanding craftsmanship but also the pride and passion behind every Robertson & Caine build.

It was equally rewarding to see the company’s strong support for the inaugural African Boating Conference (ABC), with Theo Loock serving as keynote speaker and several senior team members, including Marguerite, in attendance. Marguerite’s depth of knowledge, professionalism and warmth make her an exceptional ambassador for the brand.

Veda was also delighted to receive a personal note from Theo after the event, congratulating her on what he called “a great conference”. He added with characteristic wit: “I think the ABC is missing a D – D for delightful.”

In many ways, his comment captured the spirit of the event: a dynamic, well-attended and genuinely uplifting gathering, where more than 200 industry stakeholders from across Africa came together to chart a new course for the continent’s boating future. With this kind of enthusiasm and collaboration, the African boating industry’s horizon looks brighter than ever.

leopardcatamarans.com

robertsonandcaine.com

africanboatingconference.com

Cantieri di Pisa reveals details of Super Polaris 70

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Cantieri di Pisa reveals details of Super Polaris 70 concept

October 30, 2025
11:23 am

A collaboration between Cantieri di Pisa and T Mariotti, the 70m explorer yacht features interior design by Pisa-based Pulina Exclusive Interiors.

Cantieri di Pisa has revealed further details of the Super Polaris 70, which was announced in September as the first project in the Italian shipyard’s new collaboration with cruise ship builder T Mariotti.

The 70m explorer yacht can be built at T Mariott’s facilities Genoa, but otherwise the project spearheaded by Cantieri di Pisa has its heart in the shipyard’s home city, which influenced the choice of Pulina Exclusive Interiors as the superyacht’s interior designer.

Marco Massabò, Cantieri di Pisa’s CEO, said: “Our story and ties to the local area are pillars of the shipyard’s philosophy. We’ve chosen a world-renowned interior design firm whose innovative spirit and willingness to experiment we appreciate, but which has its roots and headquarters in Pisa.”

Antonio Luxardo, Cantieri di Pisa’s Chief Designer, added that the new project will be “paying tribute to and respecting the stylistic hallmarks that have characterised the glorious history of Cantieri di Pisa at the same time as introducing stylistic and functional innovations resulting from the shipyard’s signature ongoing research and development, and from listening to the needs of contemporary owners”.

Alessandro Pulina, founder and CEO of Pulina Exclusive Interiors, described the Super Polaris 70 as “an ‘oasis of comfort’ that is perfect in any setting, from tropical seas to the North and South Poles”. The steel-hulled superyacht has been designed for extended voyages in adventurous destinations and has a 6,500nm cruising range at 10 knots, powered by a pair of CAT 3512 engines.

The four-deck superyacht is equipped with six double cabins, including a 95sqm owner’s apartment on the main deck, extended with two 20sqm balconies, as well as a 60sqm upper deck VIP cabin with two 5sqm balconies. As well as extensive guest accommodation, there’s also accommodation for 16 crew in 10 cabins.

Key features include a winter garden on the main deck for colder cruising, while the open stern area can be used as a volleyball, basketball or padel court in warmer climes. An impressive beach club spanning 180sqm offers a swimming pool with counter-current features, a private spa and a personal gym.

Interiors have been furnished in neutral tones, with walnut wood and travertine marble finishes. According to the yard, the modern interior design of the Super Polaris 70 “prioritises Italian craftsmanship”, with “raw local materials” used throughout.

“We tried to use the neutral shades of natural fabrics – linen and cashmere – with a nuanced palette of light colour shades plus a few contrasts in order to create a dreamlike environment when cruising,” Pulina stated.

cantieridipisa.com

UX Marine opens shipyard in China

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UX Marine opens shipyard in China

October 30, 2025
9:57 am

The builder of Noordic adventure boats is also introducing the Neptune’s Chest monitoring system on all its boats, starting with the Noordic 26.

UX Marine shipyard in China

UX Marine has opened a new shipyard in China that has succeeded its Cape Town facility as the main production hub for production and delivery of its Noordic ‘luxury adventure’ collection. The new facility near Qingdao in Shandong province marks a new chapter for the South Africa-based brand and reaffirms its growing commitment to Asia-Pacific, where two of the company’s owners are based in Singapore.

Known for its sleek, adventure-ready cruisers ranging from 16-28ft, UX Marine continues to design and develop its Noordic line in Cape Town under the leadership of General Manager Jean ‘JP’ Le Roux, formerly of Robertson and Caine.

However, the new shipyard in China will allow the company to scale production and strengthen logistics for faster regional deliveries, particularly to Singapore and other markets in Southeast Asia. Co-founder Eugene Mercado, based in Singapore, said the decision to move into mainland China eastward came after careful consideration.

“Cape Town will always remain our creative hub, but to keep pace with demand, we needed to be closer to our customers,” Mercado said. “China provides the precision, infrastructure and speed we need, without losing what makes our boats so distinct.”

Eugene Mercado and Captain David Romeril

The facility positions UX Marine within Asia’s developing marine manufacturing ecosystem, as it continues to emerge as a growing hub for boatbuilding.

Captain David Romeril, UX Marine co-owner and a Singapore-based superyacht skipper, added: “Asia is the new Mecca of marine innovation. From smart materials to automation, the quality and capability here are remarkable. We’re blending South African craftsmanship with Asian efficiency to build faster, better and closer to where our boats will live.”

Boats produced at the South Africa facility included the Noordic 28 and Noordic 23, while the first model to roll out from the China facility will be the Noordic 26.

Australia-based Mike Johnston, UX Marine’s CEO, said: “This move keeps our DNA intact but expands our reach. We’re not just building boats; we’re building a bridge between continents of craftsmanship.”

Neptune’s Chest

The Noordic 26 is also significant as it introduces Neptune’s Chest, UX Marine’s proprietary automation and control system designed entirely in-house. The system allows owners to oversee every onboard function, control all lights, instruments and systems directly from their smart devices, and monitor alarms.

The simple-to-maintain hardware is discreetly installed in an accessible central module. The system, which can also be manually overridden in emergencies, now comes standard on all Noordic models.

uxmarine.com

Princess Y72 arriving in Hong Kong

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Princess Y72 arriving in Hong Kong

October 30, 2025
9:37 am

The Y72 will be showcased at the Hong Kong International Boat Show at Club Marina Cove from December 4-7.

Princess Yachts Hong Kong has announced the arrival of a Princess Y72 this November. The flybridge motoryacht will be the first yacht to enter Hong Kong waters under the newly established representation of Princess Yachts Hong Kong, formerly known as SunAzure NextWave.

The Y72 will be showcased at the Hong Kong International Boat Show at Club Marina Cove in Sai Kung from December 4-7, offering prospective buyers and industry professionals an opportunity to explore its design, features and onboard amenities.

A standout in Princess’s Y Class range of large flybridge motoryachts, which range up to the Y95, the Y72 exemplifies the brand’s ‘Distinction in Detail’ philosophy. Designed and built in Plymouth, UK, the yacht features four elegantly appointed cabins, expansive social areas and advanced performance including a top speed of 34 knots.

Jeffrey Chan, Sales Director of Princess Yachts Hong Kong, said: “Hong Kong continues to evolve as a premier destination for luxury yachting, and the arrival of the Y72 reflects our commitment to this dynamic market. We’re proud to represent Princess Yachts and introduce this exceptional model to our clients.”

Princess Yachts Hong Kong has also announced the launch of the Princess Owners Club Hong Kong, an exclusive programme designed to reward and connect the brand’s owners with a range of exclusive benefits. All existing Princess yacht owners in Hong Kong are entitled to a complimentary annual check-up for their yacht, helping to ensure their vessel remains in top condition.

“We are committed to supporting all Princess Yachts owners and ensuring their yachts remain in excellent condition,” Chan said. “The complimentary annual check-up is our way of helping every Princess owner enjoy worry-free yachting.”

Members will also receive priority booking for concert tickets, allowing them to enjoy sought-after entertainment events. In addition, owners can take advantage of special dining discounts at Lamma House, the renowned seafood restaurant on Lamma Island, and enjoy trial access to Whale Club Central, an exclusive lifestyle club in the heart of Hong Kong.

www.princesshongkong.com

Sanlorenzo SHE blends past and present

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Sanlorenzo SHE blends past and present

October 23, 2025
2:52 pm

The Italian shipyard conceived the 25.5m motoryacht as “a tribute to timeless elegance where heritage meets high-tech”.

Sanlorenzo has unveiled SHE, an 84-footer inspired by iconic yachts of the 1960s. Short for ‘Sanlorenzo Heritage’, SHE has been conceived as an “exclusive production offering” and features exterior design by Zuccon International Project and interiors by Lissoni & Partners.

Based on a lightweight hull using sandwich lamination and bio-based resins, SHE is Sanlorenzo’s first model to use Volvo Penta’s hybrid IPS propulsion system, enabling silent electric cruising and intelligent energy management while reducing fuel consumption.

Two 1,000hp IPS30 units provide a cruising speed up to 20 knots in hybrid setting, while in full-electric mode, the yacht can navigate silently up to nine knots, suitable for entering and exiting marinas or anchoring. In addition, the yacht’s 3.95m, carbon-fibre tender is equipped with an electric propulsion system.

Massimo Perotti, President and CEO of Sanlorenzo Group, said: “SHE is a celebration of Italian yachting artistry and everything we believe in: elegance that doesn’t shout, innovation that respects, design that endures. Launching SHE during the 20^th-anniversary of my custodianship of Sanlorenzo is deeply meaningful. SHE is a bridge between what we’ve inherited and what we choose to become.”

Features include a reverse-angled transom, which opens to reveal a large sea-level terrace. The cockpit, accessed from the fold-out swim platform by starboard stairs, features loose furniture and is covered by the coachroof overhang.

As well as the beach club and cockpit, outdoor areas include clean, open space on the two-level sundeck, forward coachroof and the foredeck, which can all accommodate flexible sun loungers, sunpads and other loose furniture.

The yacht’s unconventional, three-level interior is accessed from the cockpit and includes a main-deck saloon with full-height glazing, while forward are a bar to starboard and a semi-enclosed helm to port.

A sculptural circular staircase leads forward to a mezzanine level that houses the dining area and is directly linked to the crew quarters forward, which includes the galley and two cabins for three crew. Guest accommodation on the lower deck comprises a full-beam owner’s suite, a VIP cabin and a guest cabin, all with en-suite bathrooms.

Piero Lissoni, Sanlorenzo’s Art Director and founder of Lissoni & Partners, said: “SHE is a gentle yacht. It reuses traditional elements and evokes the grace of the 1960s but leaps forward into 2030. It’s a modern yacht with many innovations, simply expressed through a softened aesthetic language.”

apac.sanlorenzoyacht.com