News

Dubai Harbour, Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai International Boat Show, Shamal Holding, Gulf Craft, Saeed Hareb, Abdulla Binhabtoor, Mohammed Alshaali, Abeer Alshaali, Gulf Craft, Trixie LohMirmand

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.

© Gulf Craft

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.

© Dubai International Boat Show

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

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.

© Princess

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).

© Dubai International Boat Show

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.

© Dubai International Boat 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.

© Dubai International Boat Show

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

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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

Dufour 41 reaching across Asia

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Dufour 41 reaching across Asia

February 29, 2024
12:28 pm

Exhibiting at this year’s Japan International Boat Show and Singapore Yachting Festival, the Dufour 41 is set to sail in at least half-a-dozen Asian markets this year.

Following its global debut at last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival and Asia premiere at the Hong Kong International Boat Show, the Dufour 41 is set to appear at the Japan International Boat Show in Yokohama from March 21-24. The yacht has been sold by local dealer Active Marine, which has also sold several units of the Dufour 37, which had its global debut at the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival.

The Dufour 41 features an exterior by Umberto Felci of Italy’s Felci Yacht Design, which has designed for the French shipyard since 2002, and is the brand’s first model to feature an interior by Luca Ardizio of Ardizio Design, also of Italy.

The Dufour 41 will then make its Southeast Asia debut at the Singapore Yachting Festival, which will be held at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove from April 25-28. The model that will be on display arrived in Singapore in mid-February and was sold to a Singaporean by The Yacht Sales Co, which represents Dufour in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia.

A Dufour 41 also recently arrived in Taiwan, having been sold by local dealer Taiwan Marine Service Company. The yacht has been bought by a sailor who races regularly and will be based at the Kaohsiung Argo Yacht Club. Further units of the Dufour 41 are scheduled to arrive in mainland China and Indonesia later this year.

In early March, the Dufour 41 in Hong Kong will be used for a Sailing Experience Day attended by lifestyle media covering the upcoming Rolex China Sea Race, which will start from Hong Kong on March 27 and conclude in Subic Bay in the Philippines.

Designed to help lifestyle media better understand the sport, the Sailing Experience Day will be organised by Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club and Hong Kong dealer VP Yachts, which staged the Dufour 41’s Asia premiere at Club Marina Cove.

Kevin Corfa, Head of Dufour in Asia, said: “The Dufour 41 is really making some waves in the region. She is ideal for many Asian owners who seek a lot of space in a compact boat of 41ft.

“We also expect the new Dufour 44 that debuted in this year’s Boot Dusseldorf to make waves, as she pushes the design boundaries even further with space and comfort, while maintaining the performance Dufour is known for.”

www.dufour-yachts.com

www.vpyachtsltd.com

Saxdor appoints DCH Marine for Asia-Pacific

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Saxdor appoints DCH Marine for Asia-Pacific

February 28, 2024
1:51 am

The Finnish builder’s new APAC dealer plans to promote its expanded role by exhibiting two Saxdor models at the second Singapore Yachting Festival.

Adam Waters (DCH Marine) and Erna Rusi (Saxdor)

Saxdor Yachts has announced the appointment of DCH Marine as its new distribution partner for Asia-Pacific, covering Greater China, Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

Adam Waters, Managing Director of DCH Marine, and Erna Rusi, CEO of Saxdor, signed the agreement at Boot Dusseldorf, where the Finnish brand showcased five models ranging from the 270 GTC to the world premiere of the Saxdor 400 GTC, while announcing the development of a new flagship, the 460 GTC.

The official debut of Saxdor’s new Asia-Pacific dealership will be held during the Singapore Yachting Festival at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove from April 25-28. The show will also include the regional debut of the Saxdor 400 GTO, the first version of the current flagship, which premiered at last September’s Cannes Yachting Festival before showing alongside the new 400 GTC at Boot this year. DCH Marine also plans to show a Saxdor 320 GTO at the Singapore show.

Saxdor 400 GTO

Waters said: “Our growth at DCH Marine has always been driven by the desire to serve our customers better and to seamlessly manage the perfect yachting experience. Saxdor Yachts shares this vision, and with the world-class products currently available and planned, I’m tremendously excited to be joining hands with Saxdor on this journey.”

Formally established by Dah Chong Hong Holdings in June 2014 as a new business unit focusing on the luxury yacht market, DCH Marine is the parent company of Saxdor dealer Pacific Leisure Boat and will effectively continue representing the brand in Hong Kong, Macau, mainland China and Taiwan.

The company’s expanded remit includes key markets in Southeast Asia, where DCH Marine will oversee Saxdor’s existing dealers: Xtreme Machines in Singapore and Malaysia, Motor Field in Thailand and Tam Son Yachting in Vietnam. DCH Marine plans to start operating in the Philippines later this year and Indonesia in 2025.

Saxdor 320 GTO

The regional dealer also now represents Saxdor in Australia and New Zealand, where it already has sales points in Sydney (New South Wales), Gold Coast (Queensland) and Auckland (New Zealand), and is looking to open in Perth (Western Australia) and Melbourne (Victoria) later this year.

Following the new cooperation, Saxdor and DCH Marine will establish a service and sales structure together to provide connected ownership solutions and service throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

Rusi said: “This partnership and newly established agreement with DCH Marine accelerates Saxdor Yachts into a new phase of regional growth. Together with DCH Marine’s experience and, above all, their technical expertise and services standards, we’re certain that, as a team, we can satisfy the increasing demands of yachting enthusiasts in the Asia-Pacific region.”

www.saxdoryachts.com

Axopar 29 debuts in two editions

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Axopar 29 debuts in two editions

February 28, 2024
1:36 am

The Finnish builder has started its 10th anniversary by offering two versions of the new Axopar 29, which succeeds the iconic 28 that launched the brand.

Axopar 29 XC Cross Cabin

Axopar – whose dealers include Asiamarine in Hong Kong – has debuted two editions of its all-new 29, which succeeds the Axopar 28 that launched the brand in 2014 and its ‘Mark II’ version. At Boot Dusseldorf this year, the Finnish builder staged the world premieres of the Axopar 29’s XC Cross Cabin and Sun Top versions, developing upon the Axopar 28 Cabin and T-Top models.

The Axopar 29 has a 29ft hull with a 9ft 8in beam and a twin-step, 22.6-degree V ‘sharp-entry hull’, which includes recycled PET materials and is 30 per cent more efficient than the 28’s, according to the builder. The bow section is higher and has a more pronounced flair, while the boat’s symmetrical walkaround side decks are also wider than on the 28.

Aft cabin option

Propulsion options include a single 300-400hp outboard – offered with wider swim platforms – or two 200hp engines, which combine with the hull to give the Axopar 29 a fast cruising speed of 37 knots and a top speed of 48 knots.

The economy is also impressive. With a single 350hp outboard, the boat consumes just 1.6 litres/nm at speeds between 24-34 knots. Even with two 200hp engines, consumption at 26 knots is 1.8 litres/nm, so the boat has a 200nm-plus range with the increased fuel capacity of 400 litres.

Aft cabin option

The Axopar 29 has wide bumper rails aft, while the aft fender boxes and all storage units in the front and aft are bigger than on the 28. An appealing option is to configure the starboard fender box as a top-loading fridge, with a fresh-water faucet and sink.

Layout wise, the aft deck on the XC Cross Cabin can be left open or fitted with a wet bar or bench sofa. However, the most exciting option is a large island sunpad that can be lifted to access a cosy cabin, which can also act as a storage space for gear and equipment.

Aft cabin option

The pilothouse is topped by a higher, aggressively slanted roof that includes the option of forward solar panels. As well as more headroom, the interior includes a flat floor and greater legroom for occupants in the two helm seats and aft bench seat.

Full-width, wraparound screens forward and aft offer panoramic visibility and increase natural light, while the new location of the c-pillars makes reversing and mooring safer and easier. The sliding side doors are taller and wider than on the 28, allowing easier access.

Axopar 29 Sun Top

The Sun Top version of the Axopar 29 incorporates a new roof with a sliding canvas awning, which features on the Axopar 37 Sun Top and is offered with manual operation as standard and optionally with electric actuator.

Like the XC Cross Cabin, the Axopar 28 Sun Top is available with multiple aft deck options (open, wet bar, aft cabin), all fronted by a row of four forward-facing seats and a twin-seat helm station.

Axopar 29 Sun Top with U-sofa layout

However, the Sun Top edition is also available with a new U-sofa layout that increases sociability with a three-sided sofa around a large, foldable high-low table. The aft backrest has four different positions that can easily be changed to reconfigure the seating or lounging arrangement, with the table also lowering to help turn the sofas into a large sun bed.

On both the XC Cross Cabin and Sun Top versions, a new foredeck layout can seat up to eight people on a forward-facing bench sofa and optional U-shaped seating that wraps around the bow, where an optional high-low table can be lowered and covered with infill cushions to create a sunbed.

Foredeck with U-shaped seating in bow

Among the exciting options, the foredeck’s forward-facing bench sofa can be raised to allow access to a twin-berth cabin or storage area that can include an optional fresh-water toilet and sink.

The Axopar 29 boats are offered with the new Adventure Collection line, including special touches integrated in the boat, a clothing line designed with Sail Racing, and a water activity package created together with Jobe.

Bench sofa lifts to access cabin with toilet and sink

Jan-Erik Viitala, Axopar’s founding partner and Creative & Innovation Director, said: “We’re excited to see the Axopar 29s hitting the market, and our 10-year anniversary will be celebrated throughout the whole year with more news and a lot of cool things coming from Axopar in 2024.

“When we founded the company, I could not have imagined the scale and how far Axopar has developed in only 10 years. We’re proud of our worldwide community of ‘Axoparians’ and super excited about the next 10 years ahead of us.”

www.axopar.com

www.asiamarine.com

Galeon unveils GTO flagship

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Galeon unveils GTO flagship

February 28, 2024
1:22 am

Already displayed at boat shows on both sides of the Atlantic, the Polish builder’s powerful 435 GTO takes the Grand Touring Outboard series to a new scale.

Galeon has released its 435 GTO, which had its US debut at this year’s Miami International Boat Show following its surprise world premiere at Boot Dusseldorf. The yacht is among recent designs by UK-based Tony Castro, who has been designing for Galeon since 2001.

The flagship of the Polish builder’s Grand Touring Outboards series, the 435 GTO has been described as “GTO on steroids” and be fitted with two or three 600hp Mercury V12s, while there’s even an option for four 500hp versions.

The 435 GTO takes the bowrider design concept seen on the 325 GTO and 375 GTO, and expands it to an overall length of 44ft 9in, based on a 41ft 2in hull with a 13ft 6in beam. The width of the boat can be widened to a whopping 19ft 5in by folding down both drop-down sides, which are fitted with see-through inserts.

The engines are flanked by transoms, which lead to the aft cockpit, where a forward-facing sofa is fronted by a foldable, height-adjustable table, with the whole area able to be covered by an extendable sunshade. True to Galeon’s focus on flexibility, the sofa can slide forwards and backwards while the backrest can fold down to turn it into a sun pad.

Glass doors slide to allow access to the covered ‘indoor’ area, which includes a flexible table to starboard surrounded by seating on three sides. The forward sofa is adjustable backrest, so during navigation it can be lifted aft and the backrest flipped to form a second row of raised, forward-facing seats. Forward of it, the helm seat is to starboard and is accompanied by two identical companion seats.

The saloon’s aft sofa also has an adjustable backrest, which means it can be converted to face the cockpit. The sofa can also be turned almost 90 degrees to starboard to connect both the indoor and outdoor social areas into one common social space. On the starboard side is a large wet bar with a double grill, sink, fridge and storage, while just forward of it is a raised countertop and a fitted stool.

The large windows on either side of the saloon can electrically slide down into the hull to open the living area to the sea breezes, while the interior can also be opened to the sky by retracting a massive, tinted sunroof over the helm area.

Like the two smaller GTO models, there’s a single passage to port leading to the foredeck, which features foam decking and all-weather upholstery. An almost full-width forward-facing sunpad with headrests and armrests combines with a sofa that wraps around the starboard side and bow.

The space in the middle of the seating can be used for a table or filled in with cushions to create one enormous, sunken sunbathing area, accompanied by cupholders and an outdoor speaker system.

Stairs below the large windscreen lead below deck to an L-shaped galley with a sink and fridge, while to starboard is a bathroom with a large hull window, toilet forward and a large shower aft.

Forward is an elegant owner’s cabin with standing room at the entrance, a hull window to starboard, thinner windows forward and to port, and a skylight. There’s also a full-beam midships cabin with a low ceiling, double and single beds, and integrated storage on both sides. All downstairs areas are illuminated by recessed LED lighting.

Asia’s first 325 GTO arrived in Hong Kong in late 2021 through Asiamarine, while the dealer’s Singapore office is expecting the region’s first 375 GTO this April.

www.galeon.pl

www.asiamarine.com

Rossinavi creates Nolimits superyachts

News / yachtstyle2020

Rossinavi creates Nolimits superyachts

February 22, 2024
5:25 pm

The Italian superyacht specialist has created a new brand of full-aluminium, sub-500GT superyachts ranging from 30m-45m.

Nolimits offers five models

Rossinavi CEO Federico Rossi starred in an online video presentation to introduce the Italian builder’s new Nolimits range of semi-production superyachts, which comprises five full-aluminium motor yachts ranging from 30-45m.

Designed by the Fulvio De Simoni Studio, the models comprise the Nolimits 30, 37, 37+, 45 and 45+, with the plus sign representing an extra deck and including a raised pilot house. The Nolimits 37+ has an indoor skylounge with an all-around view on the upper deck, while the upper deck on the Nolimits 45+ has a VIP cabin and a private outdoor deck.

Nolimits 30

Built in Italy, each model has a transatlantic range, large fuel capacity and voluminous storage to allow for long passages offshore. The yachts include certifications for the Panama and Suez canals, and are designed to be ‘charter ready’.

Owned by the Rossi family since it was founded in 1980, Rossinavi is established as one of Italy’s leading builders of large superyachts. After more than four decades of operation, the Viareggio shipyard is now targeting a new market segment with the Nolimits brand, “offering a fleet with a high marine attitude midway between explorer and superyacht style, which frames Nolimits in the crossover category”.

Federico Rossi from the Nolimits presentation

Rossi stated: “After a long experience in building yachts from 500GT to over 2,000GT, it’s time to carry this kind of technical vision also into sub-500GT yachts from 30m to 45m. These vessels are suitable for long voyages and spending long periods offshore, while maintaining the same philosophy of luxury and functionality of a superyacht category.”

Common features among all five Nolimits models include a wide hull to increase stability and space, high panoramic windows and spacious sun decks, which offer different features – pools, American bars, barbecue areas, sunbeds – to appeal to guests at varying times of the day. The sun decks are also equipped with windbreakers, which allow for more comfort during navigation and high winds.

Nolimits 45+

Conceived as heavy-duty vessels and featuring 100 per cent aluminium hulls and superstructures, the Nolimits fleet focuses on space distribution, stability, comfort and safety, applying a ‘Pro’ philosophy that emphasises professional attention to details. Technical zones, crew areas and passages are designed to be spacious, ensuring comfort for all guests and staff even during long passages.

Technical equipment includes heavy-duty engines and generators, two independent rudders to increase manoeuvrability, a double stabilisation system to improve comfort at anchor and during navigation, powerful air-conditioning systems, and Zero Noise technology to reduce noise and vibrations on board.

www.rossinavi.it

Dubai show organisers expect over 200 boats

News / yachtstyle2020

Dubai show organisers expect over 200 boats

February 22, 2024
4:35 pm

The 30th Dubai International Boat Show could feature over 200 boats including close to 40 superyachts in Dubai Harbour.

The Dubai International Boat Show pre-event press conference

The landmark 30^th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show could feature more than 200 boats, according to show organiser Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). This year’s exhibitor list includes over 1,000 brands representing 55 countries including four for the first time – Austria, Finland, Sweden and Korea.

The show will be held from February 28-March 3 at Dubai Harbour, which is hosting the event for a third year. Inaugurated in 1992, the annual event is established as the Middle East’s biggest boat show and a key fixture on the global boat show calendar.

Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council and Senior Advisor to the Dubai International Boat Show, said: “As the Dubai International Boat Show embarks on a new chapter in its illustrious history for its 30th edition this year, the event continues to be a comprehensive platform for premiering innovations and welcoming new maritime companies and brands into the local industry.

Dubai Harbour will host the show for a third year

“Having been part of the show since its inception, it has been incredible to witness the show’s growth and enduring power to unite the global maritime industry in Dubai, which is now a magnet for global yachting tourism.”

Gulf Craft, the UAE’s leading yacht builder, will display models from its Majesty, Nomad, Oryx, Silvercraft and SilverCat ranges at Dubai Harbour, which is hosting the Middle East’s biggest boat show for a third successive year.

Gulf Craft plans to debut a new Majesty model alongside the Majesty 111, Majesty 100 and Majesty 62, as well as the Nomad 101, 75, 70 and 65 models. Smaller boats include the Oryx 379, Silvercraft 32 WA and five SilverCat power catamarans: 34 HT, 34 CC, 40 CC, 46 WA and 46 Lux.

Nouman Al Hakim (Al Ameeri), left, Brett Noble (Bush & Noble) and Abeer Alshaali (Gulf Craft)

Abeer Alshaali, Deputy Managing Director of Gulf Craft, said: “We’re looking forward to the 30th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show, which holds significance as our home show for Gulf Craft. This year, we are preparing to showcase a variety of vessels, including new launches and brand developments.

“The extended location at Dubai Harbour is an interesting change, and we anticipate it will attract a good number of spectators. We also acknowledge the growing interest in yacht tourism and buyers in the Middle East, which we hope will be reflected at the event. It’s a significant moment for Gulf Craft and the yachting industry in the region.”

The Middle East premiere of Azimut’s S7 sportbridge model and an Azimut 53 Fly will be among five yachts displayed by companies within Al Ameeri Group Holding, which has participated in the show since its inception over three decades ago and last year started collaborating with superyacht brokerage IYC, opening its Dubai office.

Azimut will be among global brands on show

“As exhibitors at Dubai International Boat Show since the very beginning, we recognise the impact the event has had on furthering the regional maritime sector,” said Nouman Al Hakim, COO at Al Ameeri Group Holding. “This year we will showcase five of our best-loved yachts.”

Among previous announcements, Princess will show six yachts (V40, F45, F55, Y72, X80, X95), fellow British builder Sunseeker will exhibit four models (Manhattan 55, 65 Sport Yacht, Manhattan 68, 88 Yacht), while Poland’s Sunreef Yachts will display three large catamarans: an 80 Sunreef Power Eco, Sunreef 80 Eco and a 60 Sunreef Power.

A Sanlorenzo SL86 and a 50m wooden yacht – built using traditional Emirati techniques and displayed by Bush & Noble – are among close to 40 superyachts, while there will also be a strong line-up of booths by members of the Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss) including new member Baglietto.

The show could include over 40 local, regional and global debuts

Organisers say this year’s line-up includes 46 debuts including world premieres from local builders. UAE builder IMG Boats is set to stage three debuts at the show, while fellow local shipyards Riviera Boats and Al Fajer are each preparing to premiere two boats.

Ferretti Group and Williams Jet Tenders expect to stage regional debuts, as does dealer SF Yachts, which represents Groupe Beneteau brands Prestige, Beneteau, Four Winns, Wellcraft and Scarab, as well as Australian shipyard Riviera and the Vripack design studio’s SF line of superyachts.

New exhibitors at the show include MTM Marine representing Sea-Doo jet-skis and the US-based Cigarette Racing Team, with visitors looking forward to an impressive in-water line-up at the region’s largest marina.

Saeed Hareb (Dubai Sports Council), left, and Abdulla Bin Habtoor (Dubai Harbour)

Abdulla Bin Habtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer at Shamal Holding, owner of Dubai Harbour, said: “We’re honoured to be celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Dubai International Boat Show and take pride in being part of its story. Our premier and multi-faceted district is the ideal home for the Dubai International Boat Show, the industry’s most established leisure maritime event.

“Anchored by the region’s largest marina, with the only dedicated superyacht marina, Dubai Harbour provides the perfect environment and superior facilities for yachting enthusiasts and investors from around the world.”

The show will also spotlight wider domestic and regional sustainability efforts including the pioneering Dubai Reef project, announced at COP28 under the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

The show attracts a large number of visitors

As one of the world’s largest marine reef developments, the initiative will contribute to Dubai’s sustainability goals as well as the ongoing acceleration of the emirate’s maritime sector and related sub-sectors.

On February 27, the show will again be preceded by the Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference, which features more than 100 industry leaders from across the globe diving into topics including innovation, regulation, sustainability and the future of the sector.

Trixie LohMirmand, DWTC’s Executive Vice President, said: “Our most transformative edition yet, this year’s Dubai International Boat Show will see a gathering of maritime investors, experts and enthusiasts looking to foster collaboration and further the regional maritime industry.

Trixie LohMirmand, far right, beside DWTC colleague Asma Al Sharif

“Honouring a milestone 30th edition, the show aligns with Dubai’s continued evolution as a worldwide leading yachting destination and evidences the emirate’s commitment to driving sustainable practices in the industry by spotlighting changemakers and providing a critical platform for innovation.”

www.boatshowdubai.com

Ferretti Group announces €1.1 billion of revenue

News / yachtstyle2020

Ferretti Group announces €1.1 billion of revenue

February 22, 2024
4:09 pm

The Italian owner of seven yacht brands has announced strong financial figures including a company-record adjusted EBITDA margin.

Ferretti Group has announced a record adjusted EBITDA margin of 15.2 per cent, after its Board of Directors approved the preliminary consolidated financial results for the year ending December 31, 2023.

The adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) of €169.2 million represented a 20.9 per cent increase on 2022, with a margin of 15.2 per cent, up 110bps (basis points).

The Italian company owns seven brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Custom Line, CRN, Itama and Wally. Other financial figures released by Ferretti Group included an order backlog of €1.5 billion, up 15.1 per cent on the previous year, while net revenue from new yachts rose 11.5 per cent to €1,110.9 million.

Riva 130’ Bellissima

Net income rose 38.0 per cent to €83.5 million, while its order intake of €1,120.4 million was in line with 2022. Ferretti Group had a net financial position of €281.1 million, down from €365.0 a year earlier.

Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group’s CEO, said: “2023 was an extraordinary year for Ferretti Group in terms of both the results and goals achieved. I’d like to emphasise the great importance of the listing on Euronext Milan in June and its very positive reception from the financial community.

“The results highlight remarkable growth in the main economic and financial indicators and two absolute records in our recent history: an order backlog of €1.5 billion and a margin of 15.2 per cent, confirming the solidity of the commercial and industrial strategy announced in March 2022.

Custom Line Navetta 42

“These extremely positive numbers will give substance and quality to a further strengthening of our brands, with investments in research, innovation and sustainability.”

At Boot Dusseldorf in January, Ferretti Group started the year with the world premieres of Wally’s wallypower50 and Riva’s El-Iseo, the brand’s first full-electric powerboat, which also launched the company’s new E-Luxury segment of yachts focused on sustainable technology.

www.ferrettigroup.com

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