News

Awlgrip, Colour Visualiser, AkzoNobel, Jemma Lampkin, Matthew Anzardo

Awlgrip launches revolutionary 3D Colour Visualiser

News / yachtstyle2020

Awlgrip launches revolutionary 3D Colour Visualiser

March 15, 2024
11:37 am

The AkzoNobel brand launches revolutionary 3D Colour Visualizer for boaters and professionals.

Awlgrip®, the renowned yacht brand under AkzoNobel, has introduced a revolutionary 3D Colour Visualiser on its website:

https://www.awlgrip.com/colors. The innovative, industry-leading tool is designed to empower boaters and applicators by simplifying their journey to find the perfect colour for their boat.

Boat owners, applicators, boatyards and builders now have at their fingertips a cutting-edge 3D Colour Visualiser, offering instant access to tens of thousands of colours from the extensive Awlgrip colour database.

Whether it’s for a sailboat, sportfisher, motor yacht or a superyacht, users can select their vessel type and explore various colour options for the hull sides, deck, cabin and boot stripe, and including the fouling-control solution for their region.

Through AkzoNobel’s expertise in colour and utilising unique algorithms, boaters are now able to gain a visual representation of what their boat could look like in a 3D virtual environment, then download their project scheme to discuss with their retailer or client.

Unlike traditional ‘flat’ panels, the user can manipulate the virtual boat to view colours from different angles, providing a lifelike impression of how complex curves and angles will appear.

Jemma Lampkin, Commercial Director of AkzoNobel Yacht Coatings, emphasises that the tool reflects AkzoNobel’s commitment to enriching the customer’s experience when it comes to the important, often emotive subject of colour.

“This technology development is a testament to the digital innovation and passion that AkzoNobel and our yacht team strive to deliver to boaters and professionals every day. We’re truly excited to better assist our boaters and applicators in simplifying their journey towards finding the perfect colour and Awlgrip topcoat for their boats,” she said.

“Our customers want to find the right colour to make the boat look its best on the water. That’s why we’ve developed this industry-first solution to inspire them to make that choice of painting their boats easier.”

Matthew Anzardo, Global Segment Manager of AkzoNobel’s Yacht Coatings, said: “The introduction of our innovative 3D Colour Visualiser signifies another step in the way we use digital technology to support our customer experience.

“Extensive data analytics, investment in our colour portfolio and capability while adapting new trends and technology are key foundations that help us stand out when it comes to colour selection and performance in the boating industry.

“This is a 3D tool to help boaters gain a realistic representation of what their boat could look like, which is an important first step. Nonetheless, we still suggest working with your Awlgrip applicator to ensure that the colour choice is right for you.”

www.awlgrip.com/colors

Simpson Marine’s strong line-up for Singapore

News / yachtstyle2020

Simpson Marine’s strong line-up for Singapore

March 15, 2024
11:25 am

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Asia’s largest dealer has announced an exciting provisional display for the second Singapore Yachting Festival.

Sanlorenzo SL96A

Simpson Marine expects to display the Sanlorenzo SL96A and SX88 superyachts, Bluegame’s flagship BGX73 and BG42, and the Asia premiere of Fairline’s two-balcony Squadron 58 among potentially a six-model line-up at the Singapore Yachting Festival from April 25-28.

Preceded by the two-day ICOMIA Boating Industry Conference and Yacht Style Awards & Gala evening, the Singapore Yachting Festival could feature about 70 yachts in the water, water sports demonstrations, live music, as well as gourmet food offerings at a new on-land Lifestyle Festival.

Sanlorenzo SX88

Simpson Marine is planning a special surprise for its 40^thanniversary celebrations during the event and will welcome guests and yacht owners to its Southeast Asia flagship office and neighbouring Sanlorenzo Asia office in Sentosa Cove.

Following the finalisation of the company’s recent acquisition by Sanlorenzo, the Singapore Yachting Festival at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove will be Simpson Marine’s first appearance at a show in the region since it stopped representing Beneteau, Lagoon and Aquila.

Bluegame BGX73

Richard Allen, Chief Operating Officer of Simpson Marine, said: “We’re excited about our return to the Singapore Yachting Festival. In light of our recent acquisition by Sanlorenzo, our fleet will be more curated, highlighting larger vessels that encapsulate the elegance and performance intrinsic to our longstanding yachting heritage in Asia.”

Representatives of Simpson Superyachts, Simpson Yacht Charter and the company’s yacht brokerage, charter, management and registry divisions will also be on-site to provide advice and support to visitors.

“Whether you’re dreaming of a superyacht experience, planning a charter, or seeking professional management for your vessel, our team is poised to cater to all your yachting needs,” Allen said.

www.simpsonmarine.com

Camper & Nicholsons represents Nolimits in APAC

News / yachtstyle2020

Camper & Nicholsons represents Nolimits in APAC

March 8, 2024
11:36 am

The brokerage house is the exclusive Asia-Pacific representative of the Nolimits aluminium superyachts, which are offered with exclusive Pininfarina interiors.

CGI of the five Nolimits models

Camper & Nicholsons has announced an exclusive partnership with Nolimits to sell the brand’s all-aluminium superyachts in Asia-Pacific, with the option of exclusive layouts and interior designs by Italian studio Pininfarina.

Created by Italian shipyard Rossinavi, Nolimits offers five 30-45m, transatlantic-range superyachts designed by Fulvio de Simoni Yacht Design that combine the luxury attributes of superyachts with explorer-style features and range.

The models comprise the NL30, NL37, NL37+, NL45 and NL45+. The NL45 was the first model to be sold, two weeks after the brand’s online launch.

Pininfarina interior for the NL37+

Federico Rossi, Rossinavi’s COO, said. “We have representation in Europe and America, so we’re happy to be arriving in this part of the world. We want to show that we’ve put the same thought into the 30-45m Nolimits yachts as when we build yachts up to about 70m.”

Pininfarina has created interior options that include special dining and entertainment configurations and motif options exclusively for the Asia market. Matteo Fioravanti, Senior Vice President Design at Pininfarina Shanghai, presented interior concepts that included innovative stained-wood and coloured flooring options.

“Screens to divide interiors and the mirroring of a circular theme – from dining table shape to interior decoration – were designed with Asian preferences in mind,” he said, emphasising the full sea views from the aft-deck swimming pool to the transparent windbreakers offered on the open upper decks.

Pininfarina interior for the NL45+

“It’s important to give a panoramic view of the sea whenever we can. Providing these views is 50 per cent of our design mission.”

Julien Solari, Camper & Nicholsons’ Chief Commercial Officer Asia, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to partner the Rossi family in launching Nolimits to the Asia-Pacific market. The Rossis are leaders in the Italian superyacht industry, and their craftmanship, engineering and build quality are recognised by industry experts and experienced owners alike.

“The combination of sub-500GT volumes, with interiors penned by Pininfarina, a studio known for its extraordinary ability to create timeless designs, has resulted in very promising initial reactions from our clients. The quality of construction and semi-custom design, characterised by features typically found on larger vessels, present a fantastic opportunity for our clients.

Pininfarina interior for the NL45+

“The models’ transatlantic range allows owners to explore the extraordinary cruising areas in Asia and Oceania in confidence. And the extra space of the NL37+ and NL45+ models will allow more space, so more customisation possibilities to meet requirements of the Asian yachting lifestyle.”

– Andrew Dembina

www.nolimits.yachts

www.camperandnicholsons.com

Sunreef inaugurates UAE shipyard

News / yachtstyle2020

Sunreef inaugurates UAE shipyard

March 8, 2024
11:03 am

The Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and Lech Walesa helped officially open Sunreef Yachts’ newest shipyard, dedicated to the Ultima series of powercats.

Sunreef Yachts celebrated the official inauguration of its new state-of-the-art shipyard in Ras Al Khaimah on the day after the conclusion of the 30^th Dubai International Boat Show in the UAE.

Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, officially inaugurated the new facility and addressed the gathering, highlighting the significance of the company’s expansion in the northern emirate. The shipyard currently has close to 200 employees, a figure that could or triple by the end of the year, according to Sunreef.

Lech Walesa, the former Polish President and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, travelled from Poland to witness the event and delivered a speech. Other VIPs included the Ambassador of Poland, Dr Jakub Slawek, and Francis Lapp, founder and CEO of Sunreef Yachts.

The event attracted a distinguished audience, including VIPs, local authorities and existing customers. Guests were given an exclusive tour of the new production halls, witnessing the first Ultima 55 model – a modern hybrid catamaran – taking shape. The facility is currently focused on production of the Ultima series, which has received over 35 orders across its 44, 55, 66, 77 and 88 models.

Guests were able to observe the cutting-edge robotics employed in the construction process, and had the opportunity to explore two solar-electric yachts berthed by the facility, the 80 Sunreef Power Eco Athena Too and the Sunreef 80 Eco sailing catamaran Marie-Joseph, which were both among Sunreef’s display at the five-day Dubai show.

Set on a 65,000sqm land reserve, the new facility in Ras Al Khaimah marks a significant milestone for Sunreef Yachts by signifying their commitment to expanding their global presence beyond their two shipyards in Gdansk in northern Poland, which currently employ 2,400 people.
www.sunreef-yachts.com

Cruise with cryptocurrency

News / yachtstyle2020

Cruise with cryptocurrency

March 8, 2024
10:51 am

Cryptocurrency offers an exciting new option for luxury yacht transactions, as explained by Giles Whitby-Smith of Bitcashier, whose clients include Camper & Nicholsons, Denison, SuperYachtsMonaco and Simpson Marine.

The world of luxury yachts is synonymous with opulence, adventure and exclusivity. Yet there’s a subtle but significant transformation underway within this elite industry – the integration of cryptocurrencies.

Traditionally, yacht brokerage has been a challenging and competitive field, with brokers often funding their operations until that elusive first deal. The industry is characterised by self-employment, lack of basic salary or income certainty, and intense competition for affluent buyers.

Today, the clientele for luxury yachts spans various age groups, from traditional older yacht owners looking to upgrade their vessels to secretive business magnates seeking opulent escape options. However, a fascinating new demographic is emerging – young, crypto-native millionaires and billionaires.

Cryptocurrency, which has created significant wealth for many under-50s in recent years, is gaining prominence as a means of conducting high-value transactions. These individuals, wary of traditional banking systems, are turning to platforms like Bitcashier to purchase assets such as yachts, aircraft, real estate and luxury cars.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Using cryptocurrency to buy or charter a yacht is simpler than it may seem. It’s akin to a foreign exchange transaction. If you have euros and want to make a purchase in dollars, you use an FX platform to convert your currency. The process is comparable to dealing with cryptocurrencies.

Here’s a practical example: a buyer wants to acquire a US$10 million yacht and intends to use their cryptocurrency holdings for the purchase. The buyer informs the broker of their cryptocurrency preference, who, in turn, contacts Bitcashier.

After conducting Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks and wallet analysis, Bitcashier provides a cryptocurrency invoice to the broker and client, indicating the amount of cryptocurrency required for the transaction.

Once the buyer transfers the specified cryptocurrency amount, Bitcashier promptly converts it into the equivalent fiat currency and transfers it to the yacht broker’s account.

This process, completed within about 20 minutes, aligns seamlessly with standard contractual terms, ensuring the broker always receives the agreed-upon fiat sale price. Bitcashier facilitates these transactions by charging a fee to the crypto client, offering significantly faster transaction speeds compared to conventional bank transfers.

WHY CHOOSE BITCASHIER?

Bitcashier stands as a bridge between traditional luxury markets and the digital age, facilitating seamless, convenient and secure transactions. The platform’s commitment to innovation and transparency makes it the preferred choice for discerning clients in various sectors.

With its real-time exchange platform and extensive experience, Bitcashier successfully completed eight superyacht sales and six charters in 18 months. Its key attributes, including the speed of transactions and continuous operation – it’s available all day, every day – make it a valuable partner for businesses operating in high-value luxury markets.

In a world where cryptocurrency is gaining traction as an alternative financial asset, Bitcashier empowers yacht brokers and charter companies to tap into a previously untapped revenue stream. As a fully regulated, insured and trusted global partner, Bitcashier enables them to attract young, wealthy individuals who are increasingly turning to cryptocurrencies for their financial transactions.

In conclusion, the yachting industry, like many others, is adapting to the rise of cryptocurrencies. Bitcashier is at the forefront of this revolution, providing a secure and efficient gateway for cryptocurrency enthusiasts to access the world of luxury yachts and high-end assets.

Whether you’re a seasoned yacht broker, a charter company or an affluent buyer, Bitcashier is changing the game by making luxury more accessible through digital innovation.

GILES WHITBY-SMITH

A former investment banker in London, Whitby-Smith is CEO of Bitcashier, which he co-founded with Marc Dominic (CTO) in 2020. His strong experience in financial instruments and his successful entrepreneurial history have helped Bitcashier become a leading brand in the yachting marketplace for enabling crypto transactions. Bitcashier is a fully regulated, easy-to-use platform offering risk-free transactions for buyers wanting to use cryptocurrency to buy or manage their yachts or fleet.

info@bitcashier.io

www.bitcashier.io

Boat Lagoon Yachting hosts Phuket Rendezvous

News / yachtstyle2020

Boat Lagoon Yachting hosts Phuket Rendezvous

March 7, 2024
11:39 pm

Princess, Jeanneau and Sacs motor yachts were among the stars of the latest edition of Boat Lagoon Yachting’s annual Phuket Rendezvous.

Boat Lagoon Yachting continued its 30^th-anniversary celebrations with a lively edition of its three-day Phuket Rendezvous, where over 20 participating yachts included the new Princess Y95 and the X95 sister ship. Since its inception in 2011, the Phuket Rendezvous has become recognised as one of Thailand’s leading overnight yachting events.

Other Princess yachts in the fleet included an X80 making its Thailand debut after arriving from Singapore, a Y72, two units of the F55, and a wide selection of former models ranging from 64-88ft. Jeanneau boats included Cap Camarat models while a Strider 11 and Strider 15 were among maxi RIBS from Sacs.

Yacht owners, families, friends and VIP guests were welcomed on the first day by Vrit Yongsakul, Boat Lagoon Yachting’s Group Managing Director, as well as Alister Brunskill, Singapore Country Head, and Stephen Thomas, Head of Aftersales Service. Guests enjoyed a DJ and live entertainment as the Rendezvous began at Catch Beach Club on Bangtao Beach.

On the second day, the fleet gathered at Koh Mai Thon (Maiton Island) for a special event, with the release of 30 baby Bamboo sharks as part of the country’s ongoing marine-conservation efforts.

Vrit said: “As a company deeply connected to the sea, we’re passionate about preserving marine life. Whether you enjoy the sea by sailing, boating, diving or simply admiring it, supporting marine-conservation efforts is a vital step towards ensuring thriving oceans for generations to come.”

On the third and final day, the fleet cruised towards Loh Lana Bay on Phi Phi Don island, where yachts rafted up and guests enjoyed water toys including floaties and sea scooters.

Owners also enjoyed private guided tours around the Phi Phi islands on a Sacs Strider 11 and Cap Camarat 9.0 WA. The evening concluded with a breathtaking sunset cruise to cap off another successful edition of the Phuket Rendezvous.

“Thailand is an exceptional destination for the yachting lifestyle. The Phi Phi islands and Krabi area are globally acclaimed for their breathtaking scenery, clear waters, renowned diving spots and culinary offerings,” Vrit said.

“We were delighted to host clients from across Southeast Asia, while the event underlined Thailand’s reputation as a premier yachting hub in Asia, providing guests with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the yachting lifestyle.”

www.boatlagoonyachting.com

Sanlorenzo closes Simpson Marine acquisition

News / yachtstyle2020

Sanlorenzo closes Simpson Marine acquisition

March 7, 2024
11:04 pm

The Italian shipyard has formally completed the acquisition of a majority share of Asia’s biggest yacht dealership.

Massimo Perotti, Executive Chairman of Sanlorenzo

Sanlorenzo Group has announced the closing of the acquisition of 95 per cent of share capital of Simpson Marine Limited from Mike Simpson, for an equity consideration of US$10 million, plus an earn-out up to US$7 million calculated on the net profit for the 2023 fiscal year.

The payment of the equity consideration is provided entirely by Sanlorenzo’s cash on hand. In the first nine months of 2023, on a pro-forma aggregated basis in accordance with local GAAP, the companies in the acquired perimeter of Simpson Marine generated an EBITDA around US$6.5 million and a net income around US$4.5 million.

The final determination of the earn-out amount will follow the completion of the Simpson Marine 2023 financial statements auditing process, expected by April 2024. The Musumeci, Altara, Desana e Associati law firm assisted Sanlorenzo with the legal aspects of the transaction.

Simpson Marine Group, representing Sanlorenzo in Asia since 2015, has been operating for 40 years as a major yacht sales and service company throughout Asia-Pacific. It provides Sanlorenzo with ‘plug-and-play’ direct distribution in several key markets: Hong Kong, Singapore, mainland China (Shenzhen and Sanya), Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Taiwan.

Such a capillary network is strategic for the long-term growth of Sanlorenzo in APAC. The region is expected to witness the highest UHNWIs growth worldwide for the coming years, as well as a higher yachting penetration rate among the ultra-wealthy population, given the significantly lower starting basis compared to more historical yachting markets such as the Mediterranean and the Americas.

Ongoing public and private initiatives in the region, such as marina development projects along the southern Chinese coastline and the rise of Hainan as a new global luxury hub, reinforce optimism around the potential for a long-term wave of market expansion.

Simpson Marine is also expected to play a pivotal role in the further development of Sanlorenzo’s service offering at international level, as it offers extensive experience and expertise in a broad range of services, such as charter, refit, superyacht brokerage and yacht concierge.

www.sanlorenzoyacht.com

www.simpsonmarine.com

Dubai Harbour to continue hosting DIBS

News / yachtstyle2020

Dubai Harbour to continue hosting DIBS

March 7, 2024
9:00 am

The Dubai International Boat Show will continue to be held at Dubai Harbour, which has been the event venue since 2022.

Saeed Hareb (DIBS), Abdulla Binhabtoor (Shamal Holding), Mohammed Alshaali (Gulf Craft) and Trixie LohMirmand (DWTC)

Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of the Dubai International Boat Show, and Dubai Harbour have announced that the Middle East’s biggest marina would continue to host the Middle East’s biggest boat show. The show’s 31^st edition has been earmarked for February 2025, but without dates confirmed.

Dubai Harbour has been home to the Dubai International Boat Show since the event returned post-Covid in 2022, with the event held in an L-shaped, corner location for two years. This year, the location was a few hundred metres further away and offered expansive views of the Dubai skyline from its long, waterfront site on the other side of the road from the Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal.

Trixie LohMirmand, Dubai World Trade Centre’s Executive Vice President since 2005, said: “Dubai represents the new world and a new era in leisure yachting. Everyone speaks of the soaring energy in the city and in the boat show, where I heard it described as ‘the most beautiful boat show in the world’ many times this year. It’s easy when the Dubai International Boat Show is set in a world-class marina against the most glorious skyline of any yachting destinations.

“Dubai International Boat Show and Dubai Harbour are committed to accelerating this momentum and partnering with our international community to build the world’s next most outstanding, sought-after yachting hub. We’re proud to secure a long-term home for the show at Dubai Harbour, which gives investors the confidence to fast forward long-term development plans in the region.”

Mohammed Alshaali, Saeed Hareb, Trixie LohMirmand and Abdulla Binhabtoor

Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council and the Dubai International Boat Show’s Senior Advisor, has been involved with the show since its inauguration in 1992 and has seen it move around many venues.

“Dubai Harbour is a fitting venue for a city that’s increasingly making its mark in the global maritime space. The continued collaboration of Dubai International Boat Show and Dubai Harbour is great for the international yachting community, inspiring confidence to grow boldly with energy and enthusiasm,” he said.

“Having been part of the show since its inception, it’s incredible for me to see its growth and dedication to uniting the entire maritime industry. I’m greatly looking forward to seeing how the show will continue to develop in 2025, and beyond.”

Owned by Shamal Holding, Dubai Harbour opened in 2021 and has between 700-800 berths, a significant portion of over 4,500 berths in the emirate.

Abdulla Binhabtoor, Shamal Holding’s Chief Portfolio Management Officer, said Dubai Harbour’s marina occupancy is about 90 per cent, compared to 70 per cent in early 2023, and was delighted to announce that the show would continue to host the Gulf region’s largest marine festival.

“The Dubai International Boat Show is not only the region’s biggest marine show but has grown to become a major catalyst to the wider advancement of the maritime industry and a testament to Dubai’s growing status as one of the world’s maritime hubs,” Binhabtoor said.

The 30^th Dubai International Boat Show offered spectacular skyline views

“As Dubai Harbour continues to grow and evolve as a seafront destination for residents and tourists, we greatly value the partnership with the Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai International Boat Show, as well as the support of our partners and stakeholders.

“As the region’s largest marina and located in the heart of Dubai, we consider Dubai Harbour the

natural home for the Dubai International Boat Show. We’re committed to continuing to strengthen our partnership, contributing to Dubai’s thriving leisure maritime sector for many years to come.”

The announcement was well received by local and international exhibitors including Gulf Craft Group, the Middle East’s largest yacht builder. Having participated in all 30 editions of the show, the multi-brand builder continues to have the largest display at the event, this year exhibiting 16 boats ranging in size from a 20ft electric SilverCat prototype to the Majesty 111 superyacht.

Abeer Alshaali, Gulf Craft Group’s Deputy Managing Director, said: “We love that the Dubai International Boat Show is continuing its strong partnership with Dubai Harbour. This event has been growing and welcoming more and more visitors every year.

“The world-class infrastructure at Dubai Harbour will allow for continued growth and space to welcome even more visitors, boats, clients, suppliers and international maritime organisations from across the world.”

www.boatshowdubai.com

Lagoon appoints Asiamarine as new dealer

News / yachtstyle2020

Lagoon appoints Asiamarine as new dealer

February 29, 2024
6:05 pm

The world’s leading catamaran builder has appointed Asiamarine in key Asian markets following the conclusion of its long partnership with Simpson Marine.

Lagoon 40

Lagoon, celebrating its 40^th anniversary this year, has appointed Asiamarine as its new dealer in Hong Kong, Thailand and Singapore. Part of Groupe Beneteau, Lagoon is the world’s most popular pleasure catamaran brand, having built over 7,000 units since it was founded in 1984.

In March, the French shipyard is staging the private debut of the Lagoon 60, the third largest of its seven sailing cat models ranging from the Lagoon 40 to the Seventy 7, while the builder also produces the Sixty 7 and Seventy 8 powercats.

Eric Noyel, founder and CEO of Asiamarine, said: “At Asiamarine, we’re thrilled to announce this exclusive partnership with Lagoon, whose dedication to quality and innovation mirrors our own commitment to delivering the best to our customers. With the Lagoon dealership, Asiamarine also enters the very premium world of large, luxury power catamarans.

Lagoon Sixty 7

“This collaboration goes beyond selling boats; it’s about crafting unforgettable journeys and fulfilling the dreams of boating enthusiasts. We’re dedicated to serving all Lagoon owners throughout their journey and confident that our collaboration will contribute positively to the yachting industry across Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand.”

Asiamarine, whose new-yacht portfolio includes motor yacht builders Galeon, Nimbus and Axopar, takes on the Lagoon dealership in the three key markets following the conclusion of the catamaran builder’s long-standing relationship with Simpson Marine.

Thomas Gailly, Lagoon’s Brand Director, said: “Asiamarine was the obvious choice to take over Lagoon in these strategic markets. Their long experience with multihulls, their charter structure and the quality of their after-sales service were crucial in our decision. With Asiamarine as our new dealer, we’ll provide our owners and future owners the best possible experience.”

Lagoon Seventy 7

Lagoon had collaborated with Simpson Marine for 37 years, with the dealer eventually representing the brand in seven markets in Asia. The two companies agreed to part ways following Sanlorenzo’s recent acquisition of Simpson Marine, which sold over 300 Lagoon catamarans.

Richard Allen, Group General Manager at Simpson Marine, added: “It was with a heavy heart that we stopped the decades-long collaboration with Lagoon. It has been a pleasure to represent this world-leading brand with its Asia expansion. We are now committed to ensure a smooth transition and will continue to provide assistance to our Lagoon owners as per our customer promise.”

www.catamarans-lagoon.com

www.asiamarine.com

Dubai show shines in new setting

News / yachtstyle2020

Dubai show shines in new setting

February 29, 2024
5:41 pm

The 30th Dubai International Boat Show benefits from its new location within Dubai Harbour, with visitors enjoying views of in-water yachts backed by the city’s skyline.

The 30^th Dubai International Boat Show opened on Wednesday, with the five-day event now occupying the western stretch of Dubai Harbour, parallel to the cruise terminal, so giving visitors and exhibitors a direct view of the city skyline and iconic Ain Dubai Ferris wheel. For the past two years, the show has been held at the inside corner of the T-shaped Dubai Harbour development.

Organisers announced the participation of over 1,000 brands this year along with more than 200 boats, of which close to 90 are in the water in front of the main pavilion and a long row of exhibitor booths.

Superyachts on display include the 47.5m Aquamarina built by Italy’s ISA Yachts and represented by TWW Yachts, the 46m Baglietto Lucky Me displayed by Behnemar, and Afra, the 50m wooden motor yacht exhibited by Bush & Noble, a UAE-based brokerage.

Other 100ft-plus yachts include the 38m Indigo Star by Italy’s Siar-Moschini and the Numarine 32XP Masha from Turkey.

Gulf Craft Group’s 16-strong display includes the Majesty 111, Majesty 100, Majesty 62 and Majesty 60 world premiere, alongside the Nomad 101, 75, 70 and 65.

The UAE builder’s smaller boats include the Oryx 379, Silvercraft 32 WA and six SilverCat power catamarans: 34 HT, 34 CC, 40 CC, 46 WA, 46 Lux and surprise addition, a 20ft prototype with an electric outboard motor.

Among international brands, Princess has the largest display with six yachts led by the British shipyard’s flagship X95 and including the X80 and new Y72, as well as the S62, F45 and V40. Dealer Yachts1 also represents Cranchi and is showing the Italian builder’s Settantotto 78, Sessantasette 67, A46 and E30, while fellow Italian builder Sanlorenzo is showing an SX88, SL86 and SL78.

Poland’s Sunreef Yachts is displaying three large catamarans: an 80 Sunreef Power Eco (Athena Too) and Sunreef 80 Eco (Marie-Joseph) from the solar-powered Eco series, as well as a 60 Sunreef Power.

@Sunseeker

British builder Sunseeker is exhibiting five models, led by the 88 Yacht and including the Manhattan 55 and 68 flybridge motor yachts, 65 Sport Yacht and the Superhawk 55, which joined the line-up during the show.

Ferretti Group models include the Middle East debut of the Riva 82’ Diva, which had her world premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival last September, while the four-strong line-up also features the Ferretti Yachts 780 and the Pershing 70 and 8X (84ft).

Azimut is staging the Middle East premiere of the S7 sportbridge model along with the S6, Fly 53, Fly 68 and Grande 27M superyacht in cooperation with dealer Elite Yachts, part of Al Ameeri Group, which has participated in the show since its inception over three decades ago.

The SF Yachts dealership is showing a Riviera 72 Sports Motor Yacht and a Prestige M48 multihull motor yacht, Royal Yachting is exhibiting a Galeon 640 Fly, while a Sirena 88 and Absolute Navetta 52 are among other motor yachts on show.

A Lagoon 55 sailing catamaran, Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 sailing monohull and a Dragonfly 32 sailing trimaran are being exhibited by dealer Tan Services. Sailing monohulls include a Dufour 41 from France by Eden Yachting and a Dehler 38 SQ from Germany’s Hanse Yachts group.

UAE builders exhibiting boats include Hareb Marine (Sea Master 56), Riviera Boats (Integrity 55), IMG Boats, Emirates Boats and Al Fajer Marine, while Bahrain’s Al Dhaen is exhibiting following its display at the Thailand International Boat Show.

Alongside the main pavilion, exhibitor booths overlooking the water included Azimut, Ferretti Group, Sunseeker with Bush & Noble, Sanlorenzo, Sunreef, Princess and the Swiss Yachts charter company.

To the west, superyacht builders with booths overlooking the water included Lurssen, Amels/Damen Yachting, Feadship, Heesen, Oceanco, Benetti, The Italian Sea Group, Baglietto and Numarine, along with superyacht broker Behnemar and Royal Yachts, a UAE-based charter company.

Boats being shown on the hard included a trio of Saxdor motor yachts, the 205, 270 GTO and 320 GTO, exhibited by Seas & Deserts. As well as other boats, the hard stand area also included water toys, an impressive display of luxury cars, VIP hospitality and F&B outlets.

www.boatshowdubai.com

Benetti hosts 24th Yachtmaster

News / yachtstyle2020

Benetti hosts 24th Yachtmaster

February 29, 2024
2:59 pm

Held in Europe then the US, the 24th Yachtmaster was dedicated to exploring the customer journey and the Benetti lifestyle starting from the crucial role of the crew.

Hosted in the Hungarian capital of Budapest, the 24th Benetti Yachtmaster involved over 300 guests from all over the world including captains, owner representatives, surveyors, stewardesses and industry professionals. Marco Valle, CEO of Azimut-Benetti Group, introduced the programme for the 2024 edition, which was repeated in Key West, Florida, on February 28-29.

Valle welcomed the guests and emphasised the crucial role of the captains and their skills in building the yachts of the future, while also outlining how the designs of yachts reflect owners’ increasing desire for more informal, convivial indoor-outdoor settings, exemplified by decks extending over and beside the water.

Massimiliano Casoni, General Manager of Benetti, underlined how at the centre of the brand’s success is the product on the one hand and the customer and assistance on the other, which the shipyard can ensure wherever the yacht is located.

The aim of the shipyard is to offer personalised and easily accessible services dedicated to the owner and the crew. Furthermore, each Benetti yacht will have a service manager as a point of reference for any type of assistance.

Sebastiano Fanizza, Benetti’s Chief Commercial Officer, and Alessia Farci, Customer Experience Manager, presented the evolution of the owners’ concepts of luxury and lifestyle, which point to an increasingly personalised experience on board.

Following this, the theme of the Benetti lifestyle and the important role of the captains was explored to create a product that reflects the owner’s expectations. Captains can support the shipyard in understanding the customer’s needs in the various phases of the customer journey.

Sebastiano Vida, Benetti Head of Product, then examined how different lifestyles directly impact the design of yachts: the customers begin to share their desires from the first meeting and consequently the first sketches for a new project are born. The ability to promote new design concepts linked to a new onboard lifestyle can influence the modern owner’s decision to purchase.

An exceptional example is the Oasis Deck® concept, where the study conducted to expand the percentage of spaces outdoors contributed to the success of the Oasis line. Marking the pinnacle of this trend’s evolution will be the new Veranda Deck®, a true reinterpretation of the main-deck lounge, characterised by internal and external spaces connected without limits.

Just as design influences the lifestyle on board, functional aspects such as more efficient on-board systems and greater sensitivity to the environment also receive attention from the shipyard to improve quality of life for the owner and crew.

Ample space was dedicated to Benetti’s green path with the presentation of the most recent technologies introduced to reduce environmental impact: from energy management to energy saving, from technologies for reducing fuel consumption to HVO, the alternative biofuel that allows the reduction of well-to-wake CO2 emissions by up to 80 per cent.

Moreover, the system for drinking water on board avoids the use of plastic bottles and increases storage by reducing waste.

Anders Kurtén, CEO of the Fraser superyacht brokerage house owned by Azimut-Benetti, took stock of how owners have changed in recent years, and which features are the most requested on new yachts. Among them, greater spaces for wellbeing on board and highly specialised, competent crews stood out.

Caterina Oliviero and Alvise Tositti, Chief Commercial and Chief Strategy Officers of Acquera, a leading agency in the yachting sector, presented the new web platform to facilitate the captains’ ‘operations’ on board from a technical-operational and recreational point of view.

Gianni Paladino, Commercial Director of Lusben, presented the refit yard Lusben, a division of the Azimut-Benetti Group, underlining the integrated maintenance and refit approach as a fundamental contribution to maintaining the value of a yacht throughout its life cycle.

Furthermore, Paladino outlined the investment projects already underway to enhance the three sites of Varazze, Viareggio and Livorno and to improve the environmental efficiency and sustainability of the construction activity. He also announced that Lusben is an active member of ICOMIA with the aim of setting sustainability standards for refit yards around the world.

The second day featured training sessions and networking. After a morning dedicated to an exciting team-building mission to discover one of the most important collections of paintings in the world at the Museum of Fine Arts, the LH (Luxury Hospitality) company held a workshop on leadership culture for captains and crew members to set a path for professional development and the achievement of collaborative goals within a work group such as a crew.

At the end of the day, the guests, cruising on the Bel Danube for the ‘Moonlight Wonders’ Gala dinner, admired the beauty of Budapest in its evening guise.

‘Giga’ partners of the 24^th Yachtmaster comprised Acquera, Awlgrip, Kongsberg, Lusben, Viraver and Volvo Penta, while Asea, Boero, DYT, Fraser, Jotun, MTU, Rina Maxima, Saim Marine, Sanseverino, Sevenstar Yacht Transport, Slam and Telemar Yachting were ‘Mega’ partners.

‘Class’ partners included Aseanautica, Bluewater, CGT, CMC Marine, Firefly, Mimetika, Naiad Dynamics, Fincantieri NexTech, Quantum, Versilia Supply Service, Termodinamica, Videoworks and ZF.

www.benettiyachts.it

Asia Global Yachting represents C-Tender, C-Boat

News / yachtstyle2020

Asia Global Yachting represents C-Tender, C-Boat

February 29, 2024
2:06 pm

Headed by Mauro Corvisieri and Daniele Maschio, sister brands C-Tender and C-Boat specialise in heavily customised models ranging from 40ft to superyachts.

C-Tender 40

Asia Global Yachting has been appointed as the exclusive Southeast Asia dealer of Italian sister brands C-Tender and C-Boat in Southeast Asia. With head offices in Thailand and Indonesia, Asia Global Yachting’s new-yacht portfolio also includes Italian RIB brand Nuova Jolly and Persée, an Indonesia-based luxury wooden yacht builder.

Nicolas Monges, Managing Director of AGY (Thailand), said: “The collaboration with C-Tender and C-Boat epitomises AGY’s dedication to enriching our luxury yacht portfolio. This strategic alliance aligns seamlessly with our mission of delivering unparalleled maritime opulence.”

C-Tender 44

Frederic Perrochon, Sales Director of AGY (Thailand), added: “Being entrusted as the exclusive representative of C-Tender and C-Boat in Southeast Asia is testament to our shared values of uncompromising quality and luxury. We’re poised to introduce discerning clients to an elevated standard of yachting indulgence.”

Designer Mauro Corvisieri and CEO Daniele Maschio are the co-owners of C-Tender and C-Boat. Founded by Corvisieri in 2004, C-Boat specialises in steel or aluminium superyachts from 27m upwards.

C-Tender 60 Open

Founded by Corvisieri with Maschio in 2017, C-Tender produces heavily customised, open fibreglass boats based on a range of platforms including C-Tender 40, 44 and 53. The design portfolio also includes the C-Tender 60 and 74, which are each available in Open or enclosed Villa versions.

“Collaborating with AGY opens new horizons for us to showcase our luxury yachts in the vibrant waters of Southeast Asia,” said Maschio, who visited Asia Global Yachting at this year’s Thailand International Boat Show in Phuket and is a regular visitor to Asia. “Together, we are poised to redefine the luxury yachting experience for enthusiasts in the region.”

www.asiaglobalyachting.com

www.ctenderboats.com