Reviews

MCY 76 Skylounge: Raising the Game

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

MCY 76 Skylounge: Raising the Game

June 9, 2021
1:45 pm

Monte Carlo Yachts’ newest model offers an enclosed flybridge and expanded options in the main-deck interior, as well as all the winning design traits that distinguish the new MCY 76.

The MCY 76 Skylounge debuted late last year

When the MCY 76 Skylounge world premiere was held at the 61st Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show late last year, Monte Carlo Yachts was showcasing its biggest Skylounge model so far, following the 70 version whose first unit into Asia was sold in Hong Kong by Asia Yachting earlier this year.

The newest Skylounge model is based on the new MCY 76, which is the Italian builder’s newest open flybridge model and had its global debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2019.

The Skylounge version is based on the new MCY 76

Furthermore, the new MCY 76 is the updated version of the first-ever model launched by Monte Carlo Yachts, in 2010, and the biggest of the Monfalcone yard’s three ‘second generation’ flybridge models unveiled two years ago.

“The MCY 76 is among the best-selling models in Monte Carlo Yachts’ history and definitely the most iconic one, having been a game changer on the market since the first debut,” says Sergio Loiacono, Monte Carlo Yachts’ Sales and Marketing Director.

The foredeck offers large seating and sunbathing areas, and adjustable tables

Before profiling the MCY 76 Skylounge, it’s worth looking at the yacht it’s based on. Like the entire Monte Carlo Yachts range, the original and new MCY 76 models were designed by Carlo Nuvolari and Dan Lenard of Nuvolari Lenard, whose headquarters is just a 90-minute drive from Monfalcone.

For all second-generation models – which also include the MCY 66 and 70 – new hulls, decks, layouts and superstructures were developed to increase floor area on all three decks, including notably enlarged flybridges. On the lower deck, new propulsion systems and the integration of fuel tanks into the hull created significantly more space.

The only helm station is in the enclosed flybridge

There was also a large increase in natural light created by larger windows and other means such as lowering furniture, with many of the changes reflecting client feedback over the previous years.

SKYLOUNGE WORLD

The Skylounge models were designed to be able to be used year-round. The most obvious difference is the flybridge, most of which is enclosed so adds another indoor area that can be used in inclement weather. The 197sqft enclosed flybridge offers great headroom of 2.02m, creating a luxurious feeling of space that’s replicated in the main-deck interior (2.05m) and the owner’s suite (2.00m).

The enclosed flybridge features large windows and openable skylights

Made of carbon-fibre for its weight, strength and durability, the enclosed flybridge benefits from enormous windows and large, openable skylights, which increase the natural light and allow fresh air when wanted, an appealing option day or night.

The Skylounge was first announced as a model targeted primarily at the US, where sportfisher designs are popular. However, the design also holds appeal in some Asian yachting markets such as Hong Kong, where it can drop to single-degree temperatures for a couple of weeks a year, while the long, hot summers are incredibly humid and there’s a lot of heavy rain.

The area can be configured as an office, studio, lounge, children’s room or entertainment room

However, the Skylounge’s appeal in this region is also due to the extra privacy afforded by an upper deck that can be freely customised, like most interior areas on an MCY yacht. The owner of hull one, on show at Fort Lauderdale, uses the enclosed flybridge as an office, but it’s just one among a wealth of options such as a second saloon, an office, playroom or cinema.

“The Skylounge is ideal for cold weather but also for hot climates, as the enclosed flybridge offers an additional air-conditioned area, protected from the elements, that can be enjoyed all year round,” says Loiacono, who formerly worked in Asia.

The aft terrace is 60 per cent larger than on the MCY 70 Skylounge

“However, it’s not only a matter of extending the boating season. The enclosed flybridge offers further possibilities of increasing privacy and multiplying the living experiences. It’s a large, customisable entertainment area that can be turned into the owner’s private studio, a playroom or a second saloon with inspiring 360-degree views over the horizon, perfect for relaxing moments.”

The flybridge offers an outdoor aft terrace, which is accessed through sliding glass doors and can fit an open-air galley and loose furniture. This area, for one, is notably larger than on the MCY 70 Skylounge.

The aft terrace has seating and an outdoor galley

Another notable difference between the two Skylounge models is the position of the flybridge’s internal staircase, which is aft on the 70 and forward on the 76.

EXPANDED MAIN-DECK OPTIONS

The Skylounge’s second major difference from the standard range is that it has just one helm station, in the enclosed flybridge, which allows for significantly more social space in the main-deck interior and clear views all the way forward.

The wide cockpit is one of the four main outdoor areas

The main deck is proposed in two layouts – galley aft, as seen on hull one, and galley forward. Galley-aft offers a direct link from the galley to the aft cockpit, which shares the same design as on the standard MCY 76. A curved sofa, large dining table and space for loose chairs makes it a popular place for dining, as well as a hub before and after swimming and watersports.

The galley-aft layout creates space for not one but two lounges. As well as a lounge forward of the galley, with portside seating facing the TV to starboard, there’s a second lounge further forward and up a step, offering great views.

The main deck can be designed galley aft (pictured) or forward

The C-shaped sofa can be used as a coffee or cocktail corner when the table is folded and set low, or a dining area when the table is raised and expanded.

The other proposed layout uses the raised forward area for the galley, with a formal dining table midships and saloon aft, although owners can create their own arrangement.

The galley-aft layout allows for a lounge in the middle of the interior space

“The main deck offers many customisation possibilities and the configuration chosen by the first owner is just one example,” Loiacono says.

“There’s also a galley-forward layout, while others can be designed with the client to reflect their different needs and desires, as there are very few structural limits. In Asia, we could expect requests to customise the decks with business or entertainment options.”

The forward area can be used as a second saloon cum dining area

In the bow, there’s the iconic MCY foredeck featuring a central passageway flanked by huge sunbathing areas on each side around semi-circular teak tables. For outdoor dining, the tables can be electrically raised and then connected to form a large table, while a bimini can be set up for shade.

FURTHER FLEXIBILITY

Lower-deck plans are the same as on the MCY 76 and it’s a great layout for both guests and crew. The main-deck stairs to the guest cabins are forward to starboard and descend to a hallway that leads aft to the full-beam master suite, which is situated midships.

The owner’s suite has a 2m-high ceiling and many options for the furniture

It has a forward-facing bed in the centre, with the brand’s signature overlapping portholes on each side offering views and lots of light. Furniture on both sides of the cabin can be customised and options include sets of drawers, sofas and desks cum vanity tables. Aft of the bed is the en-suite bathroom to port and a walk-in wardrobe to starboard.

The hallway leads forward to guest cabins on either side – each with two sliding single beds – and a VIP in the bow, all with en-suites. One of the most remarkable areas is the crew quarters, forward of the engine room and accessed by stairs from the starboard side deck. The default crew layout offers single cabins on both sides and a shared bathroom.

On hull one, the owner extended the walk-in wardrobe for more storage and a laundry area.

However, even the crew quarters can be customised. On hull one, the owner extended his walk-in wardrobe aft – in place of the starboard crew cabin – for more storage and hanging space, and a laundry area. Other options for the crew quarters include a double cabin, bathroom, laundry and storage, or a twin-bunk cabin, bathroom, dinette and galley, which could prove popular in Asia.

As well as customisable layouts on all three decks, there’s a vast array of options for décor, furniture, furnishings, fabrics, marbles and mosaics. These include all of those offered at Nuvolari Lenard, where the extensive menu of exclusive materials on offer reflects the studio’s decades of creating custom-designed superyachts and megayachts for some of the world’s wealthiest yacht owners.

The master cabin’s en-suite bathroom

Typically, clients or prospects visiting the Monfalcone shipyard would also visit the designers’ studio, so during recent restrictions on travel, Monte Carlo Yachts has had to work hard to maintain this option.

“Luckily and thanks to a lot of organisation, we’ve been able to offer this unique experience to our main customers despite the different restrictions,” Loiacono says. “We’ve also organised remote visits and calls to involve the clients in the design process and set direct meetings with Dan and Carlo.”

The VIP suite in the bow

MCY models may be best known for their design inside and out, and the widespread customisation options, but the yachts also pack some serious hardware and technology. The MCY 76 Skylounge is offered with either two 1,550hp or 1,650hp MAN V12s, with the latter fitted on hull one and able to propel the yacht to an impressive top speed of 30 knots. The fuel and freshwater capacities are both 25 per cent larger than on the 70.

The large hi-lo swim platform can accommodate 800kg and carry a tender up to about 13ft (4m), which typically weighs 400kg or less. It’s an alternative to the garage, which can instead be converted to a storage and beach area. However, the real fun is choosing how you want each deck to look and be used.
www.montecarloyachts.it
www.asiayachting.net

New MCY 76 in Hong Kong
The MCY 76 is the newest flybridge model by Italy’s Monte Carlo Yachts and the first hull in Asia is available for quick delivery through regional dealer Asia Yachting.

Lagoon 55 links to the ‘Big Four’

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Lagoon 55 links to the ‘Big Four’

May 25, 2021
3:49 pm

Yacht Style attended the Lagoon 55 preview at Groupe Beneteau’s CNB shipyard in Bordeaux, where the brand’s third-biggest sailing cat cruised along the Garonne river before showing off her feature-packed outdoor zones and colourful, detailed interior. By Geoffroy Langlade.

The Lagoon 55 on the Garonne; Photos: Nicolas Claris / Lagoon

After a restricted year with few boat shows and sea trials, we were excited to be invited to the CNB shipyard in Bordeaux to see the first hull of the Lagoon 55, which is set to cause quite a stir this year as further units are unveiled and are distributed around the world.

The 55 is Lagoon’s third-biggest sailing model and follows last year’s release of the Sixty 5, which completed the brand’s new ‘big four’. This lofty quartet began with the Seventy 7 in 2016 and includes the Seventy 8 and Sixty 7 powercats released in 2017 and 2019 respectively.

The 55 project began two years ago, revealed Thomas Gailly, Lagoon’s Brand Director, who says it’s targeted at owners of models from 45ft upwards who aren’t quite ready to make the leap to the Sixty 5 or Seventy 7 but want to enjoy the upgrade in space and finishing that the ‘big four’ have added to the brand.

The Lagoon 55 sits below the Sixty 5 and Seventy 7 sailing cats

“We will be carrying out technical tests and sea trials before a world tour, which will start this summer,” says Gailly, a regular visitor to Asia, at least before Covid. “In this context of the pandemic, we’ll continue all the local initiatives of Lagoon around the world, including in the Asia-Pacific, which remains one of our key markets.”

The 55 also holds special significance for the brand as it’s the same name as the first-ever Lagoon catamaran, launched in 1987 when the brand was an offshoot of Jeanneau. Since then, with Groupe Beneteau buying Jeanneau and its other brands in 1996, Lagoon has built an astonishing 6,000 units, having established itself as the world leader in cruising catamarans.

LINK TO THE ‘BIG FOUR’

Today’s 55 not only provides a link to the new ‘big four’ but also provides a significant upgrade from the Lagoon 52, which will be phased out of production after a hugely successful run since its own launch in 2012.

The Lagoon 55 has a 9ft 6in beam, almost 6ft wider than the Lagoon 52

And this is no superficial upgrade. At 54ft 4in in length, the 55 is over 2ft longer than the model it’s succeeding but remarkably, its 29ft 6in beam makes it almost 6ft or 25 per cent wider. Furthermore, the 55 has a fully developed flybridge, which when combined with a significantly bigger rig and the overall increase in volume, means it’s over 23 per cent heavier than the 52.

As well as naval architecture by the world-famous VPLP design team founded by Marc Van Peteghem and Vincent Lauriot-Prévost, the 55 features an exterior design by Patrick Le Quément and an interior by Italy’s Nauta Design, which has been handling the brand’s interiors for over a decade.

Le Quément’s handiwork is the first we see when approaching the model, which is tied up on the Garonne river that flows in front of the CNB shipyard.

Features include a sliding window, adjustable foredeck table and forward sunpads on the flybridge

“The Lagoon 55 reveals a carefully created exterior design. All around, the deck bulwark lends the boat an elegant and refined profile, plus a protected promenade around the deck,” says Le Quément, who spent most of his career as a renowned car designer for the likes of Ford and Renault.

“The exterior design of the coachroof participates in the overall flowing appearance. Its integrated handrail contributes to slimming down the overall impression of height in the coachroof, as well as featuring the now identifiable Lagoon graphic signature – a roof in perceived levitation.”

STAIRWAYS TO HEAVEN

Like the ‘big four’, the 55 is distinguished by its wide circulation spaces on board. However, as well as the full flybridge, the model’s most distinguishing feature is arguably its redesign of the aft cockpit into what Lagoon calls “an open terrace on the sea”, inspired by motor yachts.

The “open terrace on the sea” has aft-facing seating and transoms cleared to become waterside hangouts

The steps from the two transoms have been moved inwards to free up space for sitting or lying by the water, or even cooking at the optional plancha to port side. Other options include a retractable bench seat to starboard.

Martina Torrini, Lagoon’s Product Manager, says: “The revolutionary and innovative character of the 55 begins with the access on board via the new steps, which allow the aft skirts or transoms to be completely cleared. These are no longer just passage areas but living areas, allowing us to offer new options on a sailing catamaran, such as an outdoor galley or retractable cushions.”

The extra-large covered cockpit covers 270sqft and includes a large dining area opposite a wet bar, aft-facing sofas on each side and a raised daybed to starboard.

The cockpit provides a covered dining and lounging area

“With the Lagoon 55, we have completely rethought the catamaran with a real terrace on the sea,” says Gailly, who has worked for Groupe Beneteau since 2004. “With this crisis, customers feel a need to escape, they feel a need to go far away, to sail and to spend time on board.”

COVERING THE OUTDOORS

The foredeck or bow terrace is nicely integrated into the architecture of the catamaran and offers a comfortable C-shaped sofa, with both sides big enough to double as sunbeds.

The built-in foredeck sunshade is raised into place to provide elegant shelter

Winning new features are the foldable table and more notably the foldable sunshade, a mini bimini that makes for an elegant and cosy sheltered area once erected. Unlike some of its competitors, such as Leopard and Bali, Lagoon doesn’t have a forward door connecting the saloon and foredeck, but has a large opening window connecting the two areas.

Lagoon has greatly increased the scale of the flybridge, which is accessed from portside, although additional steps on starboard side are an option.

The helm station is starboard, fully equipped with electronics, practical storage and cup-holders. All winches are well located next to the mast and the helm, while due to the Harken FlatWinder, all manoeuvres come back to the helm and make it easier to handle the boat alone.

The flybridge has a folding table and L-shaped seating to port, wet bar and helm to starboard, full-width sunbathing area aft and double sunpad forward

Compared to the 52, where the lounging areas featured sunpads on the coachroof, the 55 has a full flybridge, with an L-shaped sofa, foldable dining table and a full-width sunbathing area aft. There’s also a wet bar to starboard, aft of the helm bench seat. As if that wasn’t enough, a large sunbathing area for three or more people has been fitted forward on the coachroof.

BRIGHT INTERIOR

The welcoming interior on the main deck offers almost 300sqft of space. The version presented featured a fully-equipped L-shaped galley and bar area to starboard, navigation station to port and a comfortable saloon dominated by a large C-shaped sofa forward of the mast. The coffee table can be raised and folded out for dining.

The interior by Italy’s Nauta Design includes a flexible saloon table

The cockpit doors and the forward opening window create ventilation and through breeze, while overhead windows have been added to bring in even more natural light and increase the visual connection to the outdoors.

What’s most noticeable is that the detailing and finish reflect the upgraded interiors seen on the ‘big four’ and there are some elegant design touches like the built-in bookcase behind the sofa and below the window line, which adds a homely feel.

The large starboard galley with stylish bar

Accommodation options include a four-cabin version, all with en-suite bathrooms and double beds facing the hull windows, with the owner’s suite situated aft starboard. The cabins feature some of the finest detailing on the yacht and provide genuinely comfortable rooms to relax in, day or night.

The five-cabin version replaces the owner’s suite with two cabins, with the aft starboard cabin accessed from the cockpit. The six-cabin version offers the same such layout in both hulls, requiring a slight reconfiguration of the saloon to feature forward stairways on each side. Customised layouts are also possible.

The master suite (above) is aft starboard in the four-cabin version; the aft port cabin (below)

The Lagoon 55 was initially scheduled to be unveiled at the International Multihull Show at La Grande Motte starting at the end of April, so with the event’s cancellation, this private premiere was a major step in showcasing the brand’s newest gem.
www.cata-lagoon.com
www.simpsonmarine.com

Multihulls Special 2021: Lagoon leads the way
In the first chapter of our ‘Kings of Cats’ cover story in Issue 59, Yacht Style profiles market leader Lagoon, which recently passed the 6,000 mark for cruising catamarans.

Aquila 70 bridges best of both worlds

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Aquila 70 bridges best of both worlds

May 19, 2021
10:08 pm

Designed to be as sleek and fast as a monohull motor yacht, the Aquila 70 also offers the enormous living areas of a large powercat, while luxurious, semi-custom interiors and advanced technologies further open the doors to a new level of clientele.

The Aquila 70 is the brand’s new flagship

When charged with creating the Aquila 70, J&J Design was faced with an unusual challenge: design a new 70ft powercat that looked fresh, unlike anything on the water. It had to lose the usual boxy look of most big cats and instead have a sleek, contemporary profile that would match the yacht’s top speed of 27 knots.

The Slovenian firm, which has created new designs for more than 50 builders around the world, also had to make sure the new boat had a luxurious interior and smartly designed exterior.

J&J created a sleek, dynamic profile

J&J has been designing for Aquila since the latter was founded in 2012, with the brand’s other models including the 32, 36, 44 and the new 54, which was unveiled in February along with the 70. But the flagship had to be a special design, aimed at a much more exclusive client.

“The aesthetics and handling had to be the main drivers of this boat,” says Lex Raas, President of Aquila and co-founder of the brand with MarineMax co-founder Bill McGill and Sino Eagle’s Frank Xiong. “But we also needed to focus on a yacht-quality finish. At this upper end, you’re talking semi-custom rather than production, so you need to give the clients quality and choices.”

The Aquila 70 has a top speed of 27 knots

Owners do have the option of customising the 70, including choosing interior amenities and number of staterooms. Other choices include at least two completely different layouts for the main-deck interior, the galley up, down or both, and an open or enclosed flybridge.

MONOHULL PERFORMANCE

Aquila has strong competitors in the 65-75ft power cat segment including Sunreef, Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot, but Raas was really aiming at motor yacht builders like Azimut, Sunseeker and Princess.

“A lot of these powercats may only do 15 knots and have boxy shapes,” he says. “We surveyed the owners of those yachts and they told us that’s what they don’t like about big cats. We understood we needed performance and looks. They have to have a reason to change.”

The aft platforms provide a beautiful setting by the water’s edge

In profile, the 70 could almost be mistaken for a monohull, with the sleek shape, trendy window patterns and sharp forefoot. “Everyone is blown away by the lines,” Raas says.

With the twin 1000hp Volvo D13 inboards, the boat not only has a stated top speed of 27 knots but also proved it on a recent test off Clearwater, home to the MarineMax headquarters in Florida. On our short run into the Gulf of Mexico, which involved running a gauntlet of crab traps, the boat handled well, hitting 27.4 knots without hesitation. The friendly cruise is 21-22 knots at 2,000rpm.

The large foredeck can be accessed from the side decks or the flybridge

Running a cat feels different than a monohull, especially when it comes to sharp course corrections, but the Aquila felt solid in the minor chop.

It’s clear that much thought went into the exterior design, from the wide passages along the main deck to the bow, to the centreline steps from the bow to the Portuguese bridge and up into the flybridge itself.

The helm station in the enclosed flybridge

Aquila made sure the 70 can be navigated from multiple positions, so besides the full helm in the flybridge, there are wing stations with joystick controls on both sides of the Portuguese bridge as well as in the saloon.

The enclosed section of the flybridge, with three comfy Stidd helm seats, offers excellent visibility of the water, and there’s a lounge and dining table behind. The open aft section is also partially protected by the hardtop and has a Kenyon grill, Isotherm fridge and stainless sink, so is ideal for cooking and drinks before or after meals, with plenty of space for loose furniture.

The flybridge also has a dining area and an aft deck with outdoor galley

Aquila has even created its own tenders for the 70 as well as the 54. On the 70, the 14ft multihull tender fits in a special lifting platform at the stern, so it sits flush with the boat and above the tunnel, rather than hanging off the back on davits, like many tenders. This way, it’s more secure and won’t impact the performance.

The central aft platform carries and deploys a 14ft Aquila tender

Multihull specialists Morelli & Melvin, known for America’s Cup designs, created the tender, with greater buoyancy and carrying capacity than a same-sized monohull. When the tender’s out, the transom works as an outstanding multi-level beach club, with enormous areas for loose chairs and sunbathing right by the water.

REFINED INTERIOR

Of course, any cat’s secret weapon against a monohull is interior volume. In the case of the Aquila 70, its nearly 27ft beam gave the designers 300sqft for the main saloon.

The cockpit offers a covered outdoor area for al fresco dining

The luxurious interior is the yacht’s highlight, with the open saloon being the primary focus. The 9ft headroom and wide beam deliver a sense of openness, but Aquila did a fine job creating a spacious chef’s galley to starboard, then populating the saloon with a lounge, entertainment centre and eight-person dining table forward.

Combining top brands, such as a Gaggenau cooktop, oven, microwave, espresso machine and wine chiller, with details like a touchless faucet and leather-wrapped stainless handles, gives a sense of refinement.

The interior features Natuzzi furniture and Gaggenau kitchenware

The Natuzzi décor comes from the Italian designer’s Herman collection and includes the lounge seating, coffee table, bar chairs, dining table and chairs. Electric blinds, Denon HEOS surround-sound system and controllable LED lighting also add to the high-end sensibility.

Forward is another showpiece room – the full-beam master suite. The large windows and king-sized bed, along with a lounge, are the first signs that this is a special, private space. It just feels big, with two adjoining areas down steps either side taking advantage of the cat’s width.

The dining table is opposite the galley, which can be separated by a raised panel

On the port side is the ensuite bathroom, with two sinks, glass-enclosed shower and private head, while to starboard is a dedicated storage area with six pull-out drawers, cabinets and walk-in closet. The room’s overall storage area is equivalent to three walk-in closets, a big draw for owners who live or spend significant time on their yachts.

The four-stateroom design includes a VIP suite on either side, each offering a spacious, light-filled cabin and an ensuite bathroom, while there’s a surprisingly large rear crew cabin.

The full-beam master is a few steps down and forward of the saloon

Another big draw is the engine room. Aquila made it large and functional, with stand-up headroom and good working space around the Volvos, with equipment like Kohler generators, Marine Exhaust Systems underwater exhausts and Webasto Blue Cool V77 air-conditioning. These are part of a longer list of name-brand equipment chosen because of their worldwide service networks.

Insulated to limit noise and vibration, the engine room is accessed via a watertight door to the crew cabin and day head. A C-Zone Digital switching system sits in an adjoining room, next to monitors for engine functions and navigation. In short, it’s a serious, yacht-like setup.

Storage on the starboard side of the full-beam master suite

In the end, the Aquila 70 is a winner for Aquila and J&J Design, with the luxurious interior of a yacht, but also filled with thoughtful, useful details for real-world boating.
www.aquilaboats.com
www.simpsonmarine.com

Aquila premieres flagship 70
The semi-custom Aquila 70 is the new “king” of the fast-growing powercat brand, which is represented by Simpson Marine in key markets across Asia.

Damen Yachting’s SeaXplorer 77 La Datcha heads for Kamchatka

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Damen Yachting’s SeaXplorer 77 La Datcha heads for Kamchatka

May 6, 2021
4:18 pm

Available for charter, La Datcha is a purpose-built expedition yacht set to explore some of the world’s most remote and stunning locations, starting in Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. By Bruce Maxwell.

La Datcha is Damen Yachting’s first 77m SeaXplorer

Heliskiing and volcano visits on the Russian Far East’s Kamchatka Peninsula are among activities offered to charter guests aboard Damen Yachting’s recently-launched luxury SeaXplorer 77 La Datcha, described as “a unique project never seen before in the yachting industry”.

Availability is from July to December and the rate is €740,000 (about US$885,000) a week plus 30 per cent advance provisioning allowance. Bookings are reportedly brisk.

After that, La Datcha heads for Cabo San Lucas, a sportfishing mecca on the Pacific Coast of Mexico’s Baja California, and then, via Chile, to the Ross Sea in Antarctica.

Two master suites, two VIPs and two more 40sqm suites make good use of the vessel’s huge volume

Other exotic cruises, some working with EYOS Expeditions, are to include the Bering Sea and Alaska, the Northwest and Northeast Passages, Arctic Svalbard and Greenland, as well as remoter parts of Micronesia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. Southeast Asia, Maldives and the Seychelles are in the schedule, too.

Says La Datcha’s website: “The Mediterranean and Caribbean Seas and their islands are undoubtedly beautiful, but altogether they amount to only 5 per cent of the world’s coastlines. Most luxury superyachts never venture any further, leaving 95 per cent of routes unexplored. If you are willing to go off the beaten track, we are there for you.”

Each individual suite has a bathroom with bath or shower, and walk-in wardrobes

In Kamchatka alone, Marketing and Sales Director Dasha Tinkova talks of brown bears, tundra wolves, Arctic foxes, snow sheep, reindeer, moose and muskoxen. The 1,250 km peninsula almost encloses the Sea of Okhotsk, where La Datcha will position for some charters, and offers all six species of Pacific salmon, Arctic narwhales, beluga whales and walruses, plus superb diving.

Huge sea eagles soar overhead and this remarkable “land of ice and fire” has 160 volcanoes, 29 of them active, in a World Heritage Site. Klyuchevskaya Sopka at 4,750m is the highest volcano in

the Northern Hemisphere. Close offshore, the mysterious Kuril-Kamchatka Trench is 10,500m deep.

A chess nook is located in one of the lounges

To tackle such environments, a very special vessel is needed, so the owner’s team, project managers, designers, builders, EYOS and others combined to produce an ocean-going charter yacht reflecting Amels’ advanced superyacht outfitting abilities on a tried and tested Damen Yachting SeaXplorer hull.

Says Rose Damen, the builder: “The SeaXplorer is a design and concept that appeals to those who are excited by the idea of adventure and exploration, but are still looking for that crossover with luxury yachting. That is exactly where La Datcha’s journey began.

Backgammon is an option, too

“The owner wanted to bring a whole new approach to the explorer market. A yacht built for adventures in the far-flung corners of the world, without any compromise on the luxury experience, and with a commercial goal. This was to be a yacht intended for charter in both polar and tropical regions.

“With such a vision, our goal was to deliver the first purpose-built Explorer yacht in time to charter a few weeks after delivery. We took our SeaXplorer range as the build platform for this 77m vessel.”

Russian designer Vasiliy Shprits was asked to create a warm and natural interior, while still being chic and unusual

EYOS Expeditions was aboard from the outset, and Damen says it benefitted hugely from their operational know-how and experience. This was the key in achieving a level of capability “that cannot be found in traditional superyachts and conversion designs”.

“We incorporated hundreds of operational design features based on real expedition experience, and were able to customise and build to the owner’s brief, including many unique features which truly make her one of a kind.”

Casual lounges and different dining facilities are a hallmark of the vessel

That brief began forming in 2017, when the owner took an interest in an Amels 60 Limited Editions design, attracted by the clean vertical lines of the axe bow, but once he saw the SeaXplorer concept, this instantly became his designated project.

Azure Yacht Design was called in. They had created the SeaXplorer series exteriors for the Damen Group as a development of the latter’s famous Yacht Support Vessels, a hybrid that combined the strength of the Damen Sea Axe hull and lines with the more classic beauty and luxury of subsidiary Amels superyachts.

Look-alike 9.26m ‘mini me’ limousine tender doubles as rescue boat

Parent Damen is an enormous family-owned Dutch defence, engineering and shipbuilding group that has businesses in 120 countries, based at Vlissingen near the Dutch-Belgian border, with access there to the North Sea.

Erik Spek of Azure says: “The challenge was to make a commercial and potentially bulky-looking vessel look dynamic, yachtlike and well proportioned.

“As it was going to be a fully committed explorer-type yacht, we wanted to use a strong conceptual incentive to visually ‘protect’ guests on board. By wrapping the colossal bow around the superstructure, the exterior design both visually and literally created the yacht’s armour against the sea and ice.”

Three-person Triton 1650 submarine is likewise finished in custom La Datcha colours

Other exterior design features include an observation post in the bow for activities like whale watching or perhaps observing arctic scenery, and a ‘floating band’ in the profile continues forward of the panoramic interior observation lounge, providing an extra sense of security. There’s also a custom lifeboat cum limousine tender that is a replica of La Datcha herself, a sort of ‘mini me’, which when stowed, blends beautifully into the hull and its Saharan tan colour scheme.

The aluminium mast’s Crow’s Nest offers an extraordinary 360-degree viewing point, and the forward observation lounge on the upper deck likewise affords spectacular 270 degree vistas.

Two helicopters are carried by regulation in polar waters

La Datcha refers to a second home in Russia, also spelt dacha. Traditionally it is a small cottage in the woods, where Russian people spend their holidays and weekends. This floating cottage spans six decks and offers luxury accommodation for 12 guests in six suites, including two masters and two VIPs. Each comes with an ensuite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe.

The owner’s suite on the principal deck is an expansive 95sqm and on the upper deck it is 67.5sqm. This can be combined with a 35sqm suite to form an apartment-style set-up. The three other suites are 40sqm, the same size as VIP suites aboard an Amels 242 Limited Edition, so La Datcha really does deliver luxury volume within its 14m beam. Ceiling heights are 2.2m.

Jacuzzi pool on the upper deck is one of many places to relax and watch the scenery drift past

She carries a crew of 19 bolstered by up to six expedition-related staff such as helicopter pilots, heli engineer, and expedition guides for specific activities.

Initial Build Captain Darren Wakelam says: “La Datcha’s 6,000nm range and 40-day autonomy at sea gives us enormous capability to cruise to remote areas, which tend to be more rugged and offer more wildlife. Her voyage to the Russian Far East is sure to be fabulous. It is pretty much the end of the world. Hard to access, unspoiled, and very, very few yachts have ever travelled there.

Observation areas are custom created throughout

“Without doubt, she’s built to a high standard both externally as a ship and internally in the luxury spaces. She looks rugged and capable, and with a well-appointed interior, promises adventure. I have zero doubt that she will make good on that promise.”

As La Datcha is now well under way, two further Captains, Alistair Reed and Alexander Baronjan, are handling the vessel in rotation. Custom interiors are created by Russian architect Vasiliy Shprits, who has previously focused on private residences and luxury resort fitouts. Apart from the comforts of the salons and lounges, guests have an extra-large beach club with sauna, steam room, massage and gym.

Ice bar feature is over 3m long, made of clear epoxy resin and can be illuminated in various colours

Natural oak, leather, bronze, marble and onyx are blended with stone mosaics and woollen rugs to create chic and unusual aspects while still being simple and warm, with adventure as the underlying theme.

There is a sideboard with 3D leather panelling, and a featured ice bar 3.2m long and made from almost completely clear epoxy resin. It looks like a real block of ice and can be illuminated in different colours.

The vessel itself is Ice Classed and built to the latest IMO Polar Code. Other parts of the Damen Shipyards Group construct Ice Breakers and Coast Guard Ships, so they already had state-of-the-art expertise in these fields.

Another attractive al fresco dining area is tucked in behind a bulkhead for protection from the wind when La Datcha is under way

The Code now includes having a reinforced Ice Class 1C Ice Breaker hull, and stabilisers are retractable to avoid being trapped by drifting ice floes or submersed logs.

She is fully equipped for world class heliskiing with two helicopters, a certified helideck and below-deck hangar, ski room, snowmobiles and avalanche safety equipment, and is designed to carry

an impressive inventory of tropical equipment for ocean exploring, such as a dive centre, three-person Triton 1650 submarine finished in La Datcha colours, wave runners, more toys and watercraft, and three large tenders.

On the port side is a Fassmer, custom designed and built rescue boat cum limousine tender of 9.26m. On the starboard outside is an 8.5m Beachlander, and inside a 9.1 m RIB tender, both by Insider

Yachts.

Three wave runners in custom colours supplement an enormous array of other toys and watercraft in the dive centre and beach club aft

La Datcha is designed to deliver 40 days of autonomy at sea thanks to extra-large stores for provisions, laundry, luggage, fuel, waste-water holding tanks and garbage management. There is also a hospital aboard, close to the crew quarters, where the crew gym is located. Having a hospital is a formality required by class, and it has complete quarantine facilities, including its own separate air-conditioning and sewage systems.

Project management for the owner was conducted by Alexander Pizano of Fraser, and charter bookings may be made via Victoria Verhovskaia at agents Edmiston Monaco.

Concludes Pizano: “She is the first purpose-built expedition yacht with a fixed itinerary, a product never seen before in the yachting industry.”
www.damenyachting.com
www.edmiston.com
www.ladatcha.com
www.eyos-expeditions.com

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Sanlorenzo SX112: ‘Crossover Queen’ coming to HK

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Sanlorenzo SX112: ‘Crossover Queen’ coming to HK

April 29, 2021
2:15 pm

A big step up from the SX88 and SX76, the new Sanlorenzo SX112 is the flagship of the Italian builder’s iconic crossover series, with the first hull in Asia scheduled to arrive in Hong Kong later this year.

The Sanlorenzo SX112 is the new flagship of the SX range

Sanlorenzo calls its SX series ‘crossover’ yachts because they combine the best features of explorers with the comfort of flybridge yachts. But a visit to the range’s new flagship, the SX112, shows that these yachts bridge more than just vessel types.

Like the SX88 and the SX76 before her, the 33m SX112 offers a ‘no barriers’ experience of life at sea. Bernardo Zuccon of Zuccon International Project has designed the exteriors of the entire SX line and has used no-nonsense, workboat-like features such as vertical bows, forward-slanted glass and long, open aft sections throughout the range. The look is strong, distinctive and modern without being radical.

Bernardo Zuccon designed the exterior of the SX112

While the exteriors of the SX range have a family resemblance that recalls seafaring traditions, the interiors were designed by Piero Lissoni, a man who has been determined to shake up the nautical world’s preconceptions ever since he became Sanlorenzo’s Art Director in 2018.

Lissoni begins his tour of the yacht with an announcement: “I don’t see why a yacht should be a compendium of all things associated with wealth – marbles, hides, exotic woods – because luxury and vulgarity often go hand in hand,” he says.

The large aft cockpit offers an infinity view

“I have asked yacht designers and I asked myself: Why do people who have beautiful homes have such vulgar yachts? I think that the source of this vulgarity more often than not comes from the shipyard architects who seem to think that wealthy owners want splashy materials. I don’t agree with that.”

SPACE IS SANCTUARY

After Lissoni’s words, it’s no surprise to board the yacht and find a space where nothing glitters but

everything shines in its own way. In the saloon, built-in pieces blend discreetly into the yacht’s structure while tatami and natural wood tones offer a subtle backdrop to design icons such as electric-blue Utrecht armchairs by Gerrit Thomas Rietveld and produced by Cassina.

On hull one, the main-deck saloon features designer furnishings

There are also B&B Italia couches, a Poul Kjaerholm PK-80 daybed and Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni’s classic Toio lamps produced by Flos.

“When I design a yacht, I approach it just as I would any other project, aiming to create something functional, comfortable and beautiful,” Lissoni continues. “It used to be that a yacht and everything aboard it had to be made by a yacht designer.

There’s a forward dining area beside an intimate seating area

“Outsiders like me have changed the rules by showing that a yacht can be a floating villa furnished with some of the most beautiful design pieces on the market today. We are modern people living in this day and age. Why not design an interior that reflects that?”

But Lissoni’s bold new approach to yacht interiors goes far beyond furnishings. Entering the yacht, you look straight through an open and airy space accented by a glass-enclosed swirl of a steel staircase that runs to all decks and disguises an engineering feat behind deceptively simple lines.

The spiral staircase is a practical and visual centrepiece

There is a living area aft and a dining area fore. There is no lobby and the bridge area is notably absent. In fact, Lissoni requisitioned the area with the best views from the captain and put it at the disposal of the owners and their guests.

The SX112 only has one helm and it’s on the fly deck. While this arrangement breaks with tradition, it makes for a main saloon that’s flooded with light and immersed in nature.

On the lower deck, Piero Lissoni has turned the spiral staircase into a work of art

Proceeding down the spiralling staircase to the lower deck leads to an alcove where tatami is used extensively, introducing an East/West mixture that represents another crossover on the SX112.

With its neutral colour, interesting texture and inherent soundproofing qualities, tatami is used extensively in the guest cabins that, on this hull, include an owner’s cabin aft and two VIPs.

The headboard in the owner’s cabin is under the large hull window

Walnut and Verde Alpi marble are other recurring materials while the chromed porthole frames are left visible, so the industrial-grade beauty of the yacht’s build technology shows through.

OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND

While it mixes features of flybridge yachts with explorers and blends Eastern vibes with Western icons, the SX112 really crosses over when it blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. A world opens up when you turn a handle concealed in the panelling of the owner’s cabin and find that it leads directly to the gym, beach lounge and a spectacular aft deck.

The aft lower deck features an interior beach lounge

Much, much more than a swim platform, this 90sqm expanse of free, open space is a private ‘beach’ whose size and airiness increase exponentially when the yacht’s side terraces are opened over the water.

Access to the water is easy, the sense of freedom and space is unlimited, and the owner literally has all of this at his or her fingertips at any time of the day or night. In keeping with his minimalist approach, Lissoni has furnished the SX112’s outdoor spaces with simple, linear pieces that are commercially available.

The enormous outdoor beach club makes the most of its drop-down sides

“In my opinion, everything that’s used aboard a yacht should be commercial because industrial designers are better attuned than nautical designers to how we live today,” he says. “On top of that, commercially available products are made from certified materials that only industries have access to. They can guarantee quality and durability.”

Lissoni paid as much attention to flow through the yacht as he did to its furnishings. The stern deck and the main deck aft connect both physically and philosophically. The stairs are straight and easy to walk up and the space, with loose furniture facing aft, is planned as a continuation of the stern, not as an introduction to the saloon.

The central staircase also leads to the upper deck

From there, it’s another quick hop up to the fly deck with its excellent views. Here, the space under the hardtop can be entirely enclosed to become a kind of cabana with a dining area, bar and the helm station.

LOOKING AHEAD

Much as Lissoni believes that a yacht should feel like a villa, we all know that they are complicated pieces of machinery. But with spaces such as a dining room where the bridge usually is and a gym and beach club where the engine room is often located, it’s hard to imagine where the SX112’s four Volvo IPS engines are tucked away.

The sole helm station is on the upper deck, which offers panoramic views

As it turns out, the engine room is accessed from a hatch on the stern deck and from a small door on the starboard side of the beach club. But even when the yacht’s fast displacement hull is launched at top speed, the pod’s smooth and quiet ride means that you’d barely know they were there.

The SX112 fills the bill for anyone who wants a yacht for living freely, in easy contact with the water and in great style. And Lissoni is looking forward to continuing in his work with Sanlorenzo.

The enclosed section of the upper deck looks out to an expansive aft deck

“I’m attracted by the difficulty of nautical projects, by the challenge of designing something that moves, that exists in nature and that is impacted by it. At the same time, I want to stay an architect first and foremost,” Lissoni says.

“I like being the outsider in the nautical world and I’d really like to convince my insider colleagues to have the guts to change. Look ahead to the future, not back on tradition.” The SX112 is that forward-looking yacht that crosses over boundaries to create a new style of life at sea.

Simpson Marine, under Sanlorenzo Asia, has sold the first unit into the region, which is arriving in Hong Kong by the end of theyear.
www.sanlorenzoyacht.com
www.simpsonmarine.com

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Fairline finds sweet spot with Squadron 50

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Fairline finds sweet spot with Squadron 50

April 14, 2021
9:56 pm

The Squadron 50 sits in the ‘sweet spot’ of Fairline’s increasingly wide range, with the quick sale of the first unit in Hong Kong showing the potential of the British builder’s expanded regional partnership with Simpson Marine.

The first Fairline Squadron 50 in Asia looks at home in Repulse Bay

Soon after Simpson Marine’s representation of Fairline Yachts was increased to cover 10 countries and territories within Greater China and Southeast Asia, the regional dealer staged the Asian debut of the Squadron 50 at last year’s Thailand Yacht Show, just four months after the model’s world premiere at the 2019 Southampton International Boat Show.

Not long after, however, the ‘C-word’ started to spread around the region and the globe, with many Southeast Asian yachting markets retracting in the aftermath. It proved an inauspicious start for Fairline’s new relationship with Simpson Marine, but the Squadron 50 eventually arrived in Hong Kong late last year, where it was soon snapped up in the region’s most active yachting hub.

Fairline’s Squadron 50 has a top speed of 31-32 knots depending on the choice of Volvo IPS engines

The model’s quick sale didn’t surprise Fairline, whose range of yachts has spanned in size from the F//Line 33 to the flagship Squadron 68 since those models were also launched in 2019, but which is still dominated by multiple models within the 45-53ft range, the British builder’s heartland.

“The Squadron 50 has proven to be extremely popular, hitting our market’s sweet spot perfectly when it comes to size and features,” says Miles Moorhouse, Fairline’s Head of Marketing.

“It has a combination of large exterior and interior spaces, which means owners can enjoy their boat whatever the weather. It also has an array of options including flexible accommodation, galley up or galley down, and the choice of an aft crew cabin, all of which makes it perfect for customising to owner’s preferences.”

Fairline’s British heritage is emphasised by eye-catching cushions

Simpson Marine had represented the British builder in Hong Kong and the Philippines since June 2018, but in January 2020 the dealer announced its scope had increased to cover both territories plus Taiwan and seven Southeast Asian nations – Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar.

SQUADRON REBOOT

An F//Line 33 and a Squadron 68 have since arrived in Singapore and Hong Kong, respectively. Meanwhile, scheduled deliveries to Hong Kong include a Squadron 53 in April to be followed a couple of months later by a Targa 45 GT, a model that had its world premiere at Boot Dusseldorf in 2020.

Both sit in and around Fairline’s sweet spot, where the Squadron 50 is the first of three new models sharing the same platform, along with the Targa 50’s Open and GT versions. The Fairline Yachts Design Studio is responsible for the design of these new models, which built on the brand’s well-established 48ft selection.

The roomy cockpit has a wide sofa and side gates to the swim platform

The new exterior styling includes an anthracite-coloured hardtop, which instantly differentiates the new 50ft range and provides a visual ‘trick’ to the eye, making for a sleeker, lower profile. “The Squadron 50 is a rebooted version of a classic Fairline, with new sporty accents,” Moorhouse explains.

Unlike Targa sports cruisers, the Squadron 50 offers a flybridge, a popular feature in Hong Kong and much of Asia. The yacht offers a relatively classic set-up, one that gives owners in Asia plenty of teak-laid outdoor areas to enjoy the region’s great weather.

The sheltered aft cockpit has a roomy sofa flanked by side gates that lead to the roomy bathing platform, just two steps down. Up front, the sleek foredeck offers a double sunpad with drinks holders.

The foredeck has a double sunpad and drinks holders

For larger groups, the flybridge is the place to be as it offers seating for at least six on an aft L-shaped sofa around a good-sized table, while the entertainment system provides the soundtrack and meals can be knocked up at the wet bar, which has a barbecue, fridge and sink.

Forward is a double bench seat to starboard and the twin-seat helm station to port, where most of the driving is done, certainly in Hong Kong.

The flybridge is built for entertaining, with plenty of seating and a wet bar

The Squadron 50 has the option of twin Volvo IPS650 or IPS700 engines for a top speed of 31-32 knots, as well as all the associated benefits of IPS such as user-friendly joystick controls, great manoeuvrability and performance, excellent efficiency and low emissions.

COOL INTERIOR

Inside, the tropical-spec air-conditioning has the desired effect in creating a cool interior that acts as a welcome refuge from time in the sun and offers the finish and detailing Fairline is renowned for.

The first unit in Hong Kong features high-gloss walnut joinery and the galley-down layout, so has a starboard sofa by the 32in pop-up TV

The first Hong Kong unit features a galley-down, two-cabin layout, which offers a great saloon with a large C-shaped sofa and adjustable table to port, as well as a starboard sofa that sits in front of the 32in popup TV. Large windows all around ensure the interior is well lit, although views are frustrated by the horizontal strips running along the middle of each side window.

All the seating features elegant white upholstery, while there are numerous other choices among Fairline’s four interior décor themes: St Tropez, Capri, Amalfi and Hamptons.

The forward part of the interior is raised and features the helm station to starboard and a companion seating area to port

The muted oak flooring contrasts with the high-gloss walnut joinery, as seen on the starboard cabinet and the raised forward area, where the helm station features the twin helm seats and the steering wheel in Italian leather.

To port, there’s a cosy L-shaped sofa with an elegant coffee table and nice views through the windscreen, as well as down the stairs to the galley and lower saloon to starboard, an area that can instead be used for a third cabin if specified. However, for owners who prefer more entertaining and dining areas, and only need two cabins for a family or two couples, this is an ideal layout.

The helm seats are finished in Italian leather

The lower saloon has an L-shaped sofa and adjustable table that makes a nice setting for breakfast or for indoor dining when it’s too cold or wet outside, while there’s also a 22-inch TV. The facing galley is well equipped with a Carrara white marble worktop, an oven, grill and hobs, as well as cupboards, eye-level lockers and a large fridge/freezer all finished in high-gloss walnut.

Forward is the VIP with sliding scissor berths, which has private access to a starboard bathroom that also doubles as the day head.

The raised corner lounge has good views, including down to the galley and lower saloon

Midships is the full-beam master cabin, which has a forward-facing bed and masses of drawers on each side, although there’s the option of a sofa to starboard by the ensuite bathroom. Both bedrooms feature New Zealand wool twist carpeting.

“The interior offers multiple spaces for modern entertaining, all featuring the handcrafted woodwork, luxurious touches and attention to detail Fairline is renowned for,” Moorhouse says.

Showing the atmospheric lighting to good effect, the lower saloon provides a nice area for breakfast and an indoor dining option

Having worked for the brand from 2008-2012 and re-joined in early 2016, Moorhouse is among Fairline’s longer-serving managers and sees a strong future for the brand in the region as Asia’s largest yacht dealership begins its second year overseeing its enlarged remit.

“The expansion of Simpson Marine’s coverage across the region delivers significant advantages for both Fairline and customers. Working in partnership with us, Simpson Marine has showcased its experience and knowledge of the region to match the right Fairline product to the customer’s exact boating requirements. The company’s extensive aftersales coverage then ensures owners are looked after efficiently and professionally,” he says.

The full-beam master suite is midships and features extensive drawer space on both sides, although a sofa can be fitted to starboard

“There is now a steady flow of exciting new Fairline motor yachts arriving in Asia, particularly in Singapore and Hong Kong, so we look forward to this continuing as regional travel restrictions lift and we begin to enter a post-Covid world.”
www.fairline.com
www.simpsonmarine.com

PREMIUM PACK

The Squadron 50 is available with Fairline’s first Premium Pack, a turnkey solution that offers owners an easy route to go boating. Highlights include high-capacity air-conditioning, Onan 11Kw generator, a submersible bathing platform with 400kg lifting capacity, Sleipner bow thruster, 21kg Ultra anchor with 50m stainless steel chain, Fusion entertainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, teak-laid flybridge floor, 12in Volvo GPS Map 8612 touchscreen display, blue exterior mood lighting, and wet bar complete with griddle, fridge, icemaker and sink.

Lavish launch of new Fairline in HK
Highlights include high tea and champagne served by The Peninsula..

Sunseeker Manhattan 55 leads ‘Famous Five’ to Asia

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Sunseeker Manhattan 55 leads ‘Famous Five’ to Asia

April 1, 2021
1:53 pm

The first of Sunseeker’s ‘Famous Five’ new models to be sold in Asia, the Manhattan 55 features a refined exterior along with a sophisticated interior styling and detailing that reflects the upgraded look and feel of the British builder’s new generation of yachts.

Sunseeker’s new Manhattan 55 on the run in San Diego, California

Sunseeker is swinging back into the yachting world’s spotlight with not one but five new models showcasing this spring. As per the new normal, the global premieres will be held online and will be supplemented with Asia-specific presentations reflecting the British builder’s new-look regional network, which includes NextWave as its distributor in the key market of Hong Kong.

In Poole, Sunseeker’s home base since the 1960s, the first units of each of the five new models have been in the water for a head-spinning mix of final fitouts, fine-tuning, testing, sea trials, video and photo shoots, and client visits.

The Manhattan 55 reaches 32 knots with twin 800hp Volvo Penta engines

Not only is Sunseeker simultaneously orchestrating five global debuts while most shipyards typically release one or two new models a year, but the builder’s new models are notably varied. They span in size and range from the Manhattan 55, Predator 55 EVO™ and 65 Sport Yacht to the immense 88 Yacht and 90 Ocean, the latter the builder’s most exciting new model of recent times.

The new Predator recently appeared at the Palm Beach International Boat Show, yet the first of the ‘Famous Five’ models out of the blocks was the Manhattan 55, which already has units as far as the US – the exterior photographs seen here are from California – and at least two orders from Asia.

Already, the 55 is following the success of its big sister, the Manhattan 68 that debuted last year and has at least four orders in this region.

Shown with the hardtop option, the Manhattan 55 has received multiple orders in Asia

“We’re delighted with the initial demand for the Manhattan 55 as owners and prospects are seeing the same advancements we made on the Manhattan 68,” said Douglas Culverwell, Sunseeker International’s Director of Distributor Development. “We expect many more sales across Asia and the rest of the world for the Manhattan 55 and other models among the ‘Famous Five’.”

As well as sharing the 68’s popularity, the 55 also features the same interior styling as its big sister. It’s part of a complete upgrade in interior design, décor and detailing that Sunseeker has incorporated in all new models since the Predator 60 EVO™ premiered in September 2019, reflecting the design influence of CEO Andrea Frabetti, who earlier that year became the first Italian to head the yard.

Structurally, the Manhattan 55 builds on the platform of the hugely popular Manhattan 52, although it’s quicker than Sunseeker’s fastest-selling model, reaching 32 knots with two Volvo Penta D13-800 engines.

The Manhattan 55 succeeds the popular Manhattan 52, which sold over 130 units including many to Asia

Subtle exterior upgrades include a second, thinner stainless-steel bowrail around the yacht that’s stronger, safer and more elegant than the guard wire it replaced. Aft, the air-intakes have been upgraded from composite to a lighter carbon-fibre weave, its dark offset matching the hull glazing.

AFT, FORE AND FLY

The yacht’s fun features start by the water, where the full-beam hydraulic platform offers access to a treasure chest of compartments as part of Sunseeker’s popular Beach Club package. The drop-down barbecue is a winner and benefits from being well clear of any interior spaces, in case you slightly burn the steaks.

When it’s play time, a wide beach seat folds down to let you watch the kids, rest after a swim or put on or pull off flippers with a lot more grace than if you were standing up. To starboard is a pull-up door, which doubles as an overhead shower along with providing access to a good-sized storage locker for anything from ropes and fenders to towels and toys.

The Beach Club package includes a barbecue, bench seat and overhead shower

To port is the door to the optional crew cabin with ensuite and space for a washer-dryer. Alternatively, this aft space can be used as a storage room. Heading up three steps and through the lift-up side gates brings you to the cockpit, which has a big C-shaped sofa and a foldout teak table.

Useful details include a small locker for lines by the cleat and optional capstan on each side. To port there’s a chest-height locker for a third helm station, where a Xenta joystick and other controls can be fitted.

The side decks lead to the foredeck, a relaxing area that combines a sofa with two loungers around a high-low table. It’s an ideal area for sunbathing, reading or intimate gatherings in the evening, when the built-in lighting and sound system can set the mood.

Aft view of the flybridge which has multiple social areas and a wet bar

The flybridge is accessed from the cockpit by a starboard stairway that’s topped by a see-through hatch, which shields the rain and even acts as a type of safety net in the case of accidental falls at the top of the steps. The stairs come out by the twin-seat, twin-screen helm station, where a wireless phone charger is among useful features.

Aft is a huge C-shaped sofa aft that comfortably fits six or more around a foldable table. Add a couple of loose chairs and you can have up to eight dining al fresco, which is made more appetising by the barbecue option in the portside wet bar. Below the seats are fitted speakers for an AV system that can play the same or different music to that in the foredeck or saloon.

Forward of the wet bar is a C-shaped sofa and a coffee table, although the best views are offered in front by the full-width sunlounger, which has convenient backrests on both sides. Shelter options include a foldable bimini or a hardtop with a sliding sunroof and which can also fit a bimini extension aft.

NEW MANHATTAN STYLE

Back on the main deck, the cockpit’s seamless connection to the galley and saloon is one of the highlights of the Manhattan 55. You only need to open the starboard cockpit door then watch as the galley ‘window’ automatically slides down at the push of a button, to see the interior open to the outside and create a huge communal area.

Once the galley window is lowered, a fold-out countertop makes an attractive bar

Furthermore, fold out the bar counter and you’ve got a solid reason to perch on the cockpit bar stools (optional) and relax with drinks and snacks.

Look inside and you’ll soon notice the showpiece ceiling, where LED lighting runs along perpendicular and diagonal lines and panels, as seen on the Manhattan 68. The overhead lighting is supplemented throughout the main deck and cabins by elegant wall lamps, also seen on the bigger model.

Almost disguised beneath the height of the bar and the raised saloon, the aft galley is a wonderment of design. Step inside and to the left and you’re surrounded on all four sides by surfaces and storage, both of which you can never have enough of in a kitchen.

The comprehensive galley is surrounded by storage and work surfaces

By the port window is a Miele oven and four-hob induction burner plus a double sink, while above is a wide bank of head-height cupboards plus extractor fan. Aft is a large prep area above an optional dishwasher, while forward is an elegant storage area for cups, crockery and glassware, lit from within.

Head back into the ‘hallway’ and the treats continue with a wine cooler and full set of drawers. As an option, this forward section of the L-shaped bar top can also remain open underneath to store two loose galley bar stools that turn the area into a breakfast counter.

To starboard, Sunseeker has designed a full-height corner unit with shelving, enclosed storage and more power points – coffee machine, anyone? Under the countertop are two large refrigerator drawers, plus there’s the option of an extra cabinet forward featuring another two fridge/ freezer drawers topped by an elegant serving area.

Up two steps from the aft galley, the saloon features a three-sided sofa facing an enormous 55in TV

Two steps up bring you to the saloon, where the large, three-sided sofa can comfortably sit six people and a designer table replicates the angular detailing of the ceiling. To starboard is a side cabinet with a huge, 55in TV and surround-sound system, while there’s also an ottoman that can be used for storage and moved to the starboard side of the table to complete a full dining set-up.

“Like the Manhattan 68, the 55 features elegant, sophisticated interior styling, yet which is clearly distinctive, for example, from the curvy, sporty interior of new Predators,” says Culverwell. “The detailing in both ranges has gone to another level in these new models.”

The helm station is up a step and features a leather bench seat with adjustable bolster and multi-functional steering wheel. The console has the option of two touch-screen Simrad displays, plus wireless charging, USB ports and a display for Sunseeker’s Cm8, which manages and monitors a range of systems from power, fuel, tanks and engine data to lighting, air-conditioning, AV and more.

CABINS AND STORAGE

Down the stairs and it’s straight ahead to the VIP cabin, which benefits from light through side windows and a deck hatch. There’s overhead storage, hanging cupboards and drawers on both sides, as well as ensuite access to the portside bathroom that doubles as the day head, shared with the twin cabin to starboard.

The master suite pictured features a dinette to starboard

The master suite is back down a couple of steps to midships, where this full-beam stateroom stands as another example of the huge upgrade in styling, décor and detailing that personifies the new Manhattans.

The entrance lobby brings you first to the ensuite bathroom to port, then it’s another step down to the bedroom, which benefits from great headroom and large windows either side. The bed faces a huge TV and soundbar, while beside them is a cabinet topped by elegant shelves with recessed lighting, ideal for books and other display items.

There’s storage all around, from the full-height cupboard on starboard to the huge cabinet that occupies the port side of the room and is packed with drawers, shelving and cupboards. Add in the bedside cabinets and there’s a place for everything.

In the master suite, starboard options include a dinette (pictured), sofa, chaise longue or the same cabinet as on port side

There’s room for even more storage, if you wish, as the space under the starboard window is offered in several arrangements including a mirror of the portside storage cabinet, a sofa, a dinette or a chaise longue, the latter three all including some storage below.

“The Manhattan 55 has taken a proven layout and really stepped it up another level in terms of practicality, finish and detailing, right throughout the yacht,” Culverwell says. “I can’t wait to see the first yachts arrive in Asia so people can hopefully see for themselves.”
www.sunseeker.com
www.sunseekerhk.com

Four Sunseeker Manhattan 68s for Asia
The first Sunseeker Manhattan 68 in Asia will soon arrive in Thailand before further hulls head for Singapore and Hong Kong.

Benetti Oasis 40M: Superyacht Sensation

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Benetti Oasis 40M: Superyacht Sensation

February 24, 2021
7:35 pm

Boasting double-digit sales around the world including orders in Asia, the popular Oasis 40M is the first model in Benetti’s exciting new range dedicated to spectacular outdoor living.

By Clare Mahon

Rebeca is the first Oasis 40M

The first unit in Benetti’s Oasis 40M line, Rebeca, is an open invitation to step in. Into the water, into the yacht or into a casual, relaxed lifestyle that couldn’t be more inviting.

Sensing there was a need for a different approach to on board living, Benetti contacted British design studio RWD and New York-based Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture with a brief that called for a yacht that would be open to the sea.

While RWD worked on the overall concept, exterior lines and layout, Bonetti/Kozerski began to plan the interiors with Benetti’s Interior Style Department, as the Azimut-Benetti Group handled naval architecture.

UK-based RWD worked on the overall concept, exterior lines and layout

The resulting yacht, the Oasis 40M, reflects a new take on an oceangoing lifestyle, one that’s dynamic, informal and elegant, and allows everyone on board to live life on the water to the full.

The exterior design that RWD created may have surpassed Benetti’s wildest dreams. Not only is the yacht open to the sea but it also literally opens onto the sea. It’s no surprise that a section opens out from the transom to become a swimming platform but side sections also fold down to make the entire aft deck a huge terrace on the water.

As the focal point of on-board life, the area is much more than a beach club – it’s an entire beach. When the whole area is open, the beam jumps from 8m to 11m and the entire area offers about 60sqm of waterfront living.

The beam expands to 11m with the fold-down sides

There are just a couple of steps up from the swim platform to the main beach platform, which features the glass-backed infinity pool, an adjustable sun lounger and an aft-facing C-shaped couch and table. There’s space for sunchairs on both sides and movement through the space is free and unencumbered.

NEW LIFESTYLE FOCUS

There are another couple of steps up to the main deck, where RWD avoided including an outdoor staircase to the upper deck, as is usually the case. The consequent feeling is of unlimited, boundary-free space. Curved glass doors open wide and welcome you to the main saloon, which seems more like a garden pavilion than an indoor space.

The swimming pool is a hub of the beach club

However, as architect Enrico Bonetti explains, the design objective wasn’t so much for a wow effect but to introduce a lifestyle of understated elegance and relaxation.

“Imagine a couple stepping aboard this yacht. He’s wearing beautifully made linen pants, a button-down shirt and excellent quality leather shoes, but without socks. She’s wearing a summer linen dress and sandals with low heels. Her hair is loose on her shoulders,” Bonetti says, describing the type of people he was designing for.

“They’re tanned, fit and clearly love the outdoors. Only if you look closely will you notice that he is wearing a priceless vintage watch and she has a very beautiful ring. These are the owners we imagined for the Oasis 40M.”

The beach club links seamlessly to the open interior

The owners Bonetti visualised for the Oasis 40 want a yacht that reflects their casual yet sophisticated lifestyle while remaining informal and comfortable. They are active so they want excellent access to the water, a gym and maybe even a wellness area.

More than sunbathing, they’re interested in enjoying the company they’re with and experiencing the places they travel to. Sure of themselves and of the quality of their lives, they don’t need to impress but they do want to enjoy.

LIGHT AND NATURAL

RWD’s design incorporates lots of glass so the interior is flooded with light and the view to the sea is always close. Blurring the boundaries between spaces, teak is used on the floors indoors and out. Bonetti/Kozerski used light colours in the interior but most notable is the absence of bling.

Teak flooring links the aft deck with the circular-themed saloon

The architects used leather instead of suede, stone instead of marble, and simple cotton and linen weaves in natural colours instead of velvets and damasks. These materials speak softly of quality and durability, transmitting an overall sense of self-assured calm.

The living area of the main saloon has a circular theme, evident in curved glass doors that open wide to the aft deck, curved couches and a round light source in the ceiling whose gilded backing glows like a sun.

The dining area benefits from full-height windows on either side

Forward, the dining area is flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows in a single, large pane of glass, while a small area preceding the lobby can be used as a study, gym or wellness space.

The full-beam owner’s cabin is also on the main deck and has the aft-facing bed to port. The entire starboard side is a private living area with a couch and armchairs. Moving fore, a large walk-in closet precedes the full-beam bathroom where a central shower divides the space into his and hers areas.

The full-beam, main-deck owner’s suite has an aft-facing bed to port by a huge window

The panelling throughout the suite is in rosewood and details are in brushed brass, but the real luxury is in the details that you perceive but might not even notice at first glance. As an example, the ceiling is lined in finely worked Foglizzo leather for a subtly beautiful effect that also has the practical bonus of soundproofing.

Leather also lines the treads of the stairs that lead down to the four guest cabins on the lower deck where the colour tones and level of finishing echo the master cabin except that brushed steel is used for accents instead of brushed brass.

The owner’s suite has a full lounge to starboard (above) and walk-in closet and bathroom forward (below)

UPPER DECKS

Guests can reach the upper deck via the lobby staircase or another staircase discreetly tucked away by the side passage. They can access the sundeck by a staircase enclosed on the starboard side of the upper deck. In a welcome change from the usual layout, there are no exterior stairways cluttering the aft and upper decks, so the outdoor areas are totally open and free.

The upper-deck skylounge has an L-shaped couch and stools to port, while on the starboard side is a bar and a large dining table by the long window. Aft, sliding glass doors tuck to the side to open the whole interior to the aft outdoor area, where there are relaxing sofas and plants to emphasise the connections with nature.

The upper deck has a skylounge with a large sofa, bar and dining table, plus an open aft deck with sofas

However, the real showstopper on the upper deck is the bridge. In keeping with the Oasis 40M’s dynamic and informal outlook on yachting, it was designed for use by both the owners and their crew. In an unusual layout, a central helm seat is flanked by Seastema integrated interface panels. The wheel feels quite small but it’s easy to use.

Adrian Chisnell, RWD’s Team Principal, explains: “We designed these yachts for an active, engaged owner who wants to be part of their yacht’s operation and who really wants to experience the areas that the yacht cruises to.

RWD designed the bridge for use by both the owner and Captain

“Since the Oasis 40M has an integrated navigation system, we’ve made the bridge an area where crew and guests can discuss plans for the day then enjoy participating in the yacht’s operation.”

An owner of the Oasis 40M could easily sit down in the beautiful leather helm chair and enjoy the thrill of commanding his or her yacht via the Seastema integrated interface while chatting comfortably with guests and crew.

On the upper deck, the foredeck offers another great outdoor area

“Guests really interact with their crew and do it differently than they would have even just a few years ago,” Chisnell continues.

“Now, often you have a crewmember who is also a water sports or yoga instructor, so they really spend some quality time with guests. This blurring of lines between crew and guest areas means that guest spaces increase, boundaries are less distinct, and all of the yacht is available.”

The sundeck includes a jacuzzi forward and covered dining area

Speaking of which, if all the yacht is available and the entire aft deck by the water is dedicated to living by the sea, where is storage for the tender and toys?

For that, RWD designed side-opening hatches that give access to a garage large enough for a 6m tender or for a smaller tender plus a jetski. That way, enjoyment of the aft-deck area can continue undisturbed, even if someone wants to run back to land to go shopping.

The aft sundeck has a long bar table with stools, bar and grill

With head-turning good looks while cruising and show-stopping features while at anchor, Benetti’s new Oasis 40M looks to be a yacht that will go beyond meeting a new set of needs to create a whole new set of seafaring expectations.

Rebeca was first shown to the public at the Genoa International Boat Show last October and by November a dozen units had been sold including four to the Asia-Pacific, confirming Benetti’s new series has hit a market sweet spot. If other owners want to enjoy this Oasis, they’d better move quickly.
www.benettiyachts.it

Sustainability: Motor Yacht Builders – Azimut-Benetti
Azimut-Benetti Group’s innovations include a 107m hybrid gigayacht, E-Mode propulsion, a displacement-to-planing hull and BCool engineering.

Prestige X70: Game Changer

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Prestige X70: Game Changer

February 18, 2021
12:01 am

Who needs side decks? The radical, widebody X70 is a pioneering design from Prestige with a major focus on outdoor living. Yacht Style puts the French builder’s new flagship to the test.

The X70 is the first model in Prestige’s new X-Line range

Let’s not pull any punches here. The X70 is, by some distance, the most radical boat that Prestige has ever built. Yes, the hull, engines and lower deck are familiar, as they’re shared with the 680 from the F-Line range and now its successor, the 690. However, from there on up, the X70 takes our expectations of how a flybridge cruiser of this size should look and flips them on their head.

On a normal 70ft flybridge, the split between interior and exterior living space is about 70/30, but on the X70 it’s more like 50/50, with the enormous cockpit gobbling up nearly half of the main deck on Prestige’s ground-breaking collaboration with Garroni Design.

The X70 was designed with long-time Prestige collaborator Garroni Design

As if that wasn’t unusual enough, the yacht doesn’t feature any side decks, so the saloon can breathe across the full width of the boat’s 5.3m beam. This is a clever trick because the boat is no wider than the one on which its platform is based, but between the oversized cockpit and width of the main deck, it feels far, far larger.

FLEXIBLE AND FUNCTIONAL

Another key point about the X70’s design is its flexibility. The boat we tested had an island sunpad aft in the cockpit and a dining table forward, but options include moving the dining table inside the saloon and having the island forward to give you some free space aft on the deck.

The extended cockpit can feature a dining table

Alternatively, if you want to carry a lot of toys, you can leave the cockpit almost completely open. The area is flanked by low, comfortable bench seats which can be partitioned by the weighted backrests that sit on the island. These aren’t fixed down but have heavily weighted bases, so you can leave them anywhere on any piece of furniture safe in the knowledge that they won’t budge at sea.

Underneath each side bench is dedicated stowage space for Seabobs, while you will find storage for the liferaft under a lid in the island. This may be a brave new world for Prestige, but it knows a thing or two about building practical craft.

Hull one’s cockpit also includes an island sunpad and facing sofas

How many 70-footers have you seen with double access to the flybridge from the cockpit? That’s what you get on the X70, although if you’d rather a wet bar in the cockpit, you can have one instead of the starboard staircase. With such a great entertaining area, it would be remiss not to have some way of knocking up some grub and keeping the beers cool and within easy reach.

The fantastic day space doesn’t stop with the cockpit. Peer over the ‘infinity’ transom and you’re looking over the standard-fit hydraulic bathing platform with built-in steps and a flip-down sofa facing the water.

The ‘infinity’ transom links the cockpit to the drop-down sofa and swim platform

There is also a water-resistant Fusion speaker and a slot-in overhead shower, a far classier solution to the usual pull-out hose. The designers have put every inch of this deck to good use and created one of the finest outdoor living areas in the class.

The flybridge isn’t as spacious as the deck below, but it’s no less versatile. Like the main deck, you can either leave the aft end open for free-standing furniture or install the same type of island that’s available downstairs.

The flybridge offers various layouts and options

The wet bar, located just aft of the dinette on the boat we tested, can be moved to whichever position you please and the standard hard top has a sliding fabric roof inside it, so the area can quickly be covered if the weather turns. In fact, the entire area beneath the hard top can be fully enclosed by screens that zip in and out of position.

The roof’s support struts, which converge in front of the upper helm, are in a bit of an odd position and could catch out taller skippers when they move in and out of the helm seat. It’s almost as if the engineers realised late in the day that the roof needed some extra support and these struts were the solution.

FULL-BEAM SALOON

Those familiar with Prestige will have quite the surprise when they step inside the saloon because the look and feel is hugely different from anything the French yard has done before.

The saloon is full beam due to the absence of side decks

In search of a more upmarket look and feel, the builder has teamed up for the first time with Italian designer Valentina Militerno de Romedis to create a décor and vibe that is more akin to the Azimuts, Ferrettis and Sunseekers of this world than anything we have seen before from Prestige.

The shipyard is open about the new direction it is taking the X-Line in terms of design and pricing strategy. The starting price is higher, but a lot of equipment that would ordinarily be an option aboard a Prestige is now standard, in line with the high-end brands the X70 aims to compete with.

The open galley is forward of the saloon (above); steps lead up to the raised helm station (below), where a side door leads to the foredeck

For example, electric drop-down windows come as standard in the saloon, as do automatic blinds throughout. The spacious galley is fitted with high-end Miele domestic appliances and the saloon furniture serves an aesthetic purpose as well as places to sit.

COMFORTABLE CABINS

The cabins are equally well appointed, especially the master, which sits on its own half deck forward. It’s a spacious, comfortable cabin tucked away from guests and at the opposite end of the boat to the machinery space, limiting disruption from the whirring of the generator or optional Seakeeper stabiliser.

The forwardmost of three or four guest cabins, the master suite has a forward-facing bed, sofa and desk

Guests have separate access to their cabins from starboard stairs in the saloon and there is the option of two or three further cabins. The four-cabin version with a full-beam VIP midship and a pair of identical twins forward of it is best if you’re looking to charter, but if you really want to offer guests a treat, the configuration with three full-beam double suites is an indulgent alternative.

Although the X70 shares the same 900hp or 1,000hp IPS engine options with the 680 and now 690, it’s quite different to drive. The X70’s extra weight and height breeds more lethargy from behind the helm and a driving experience that’s unengaging but serene.

The X70 shares the same hull as the new Prestige 690

Acceleration is measured and there’s a sense of detachment due to the superlight fly-by-wire steering, so it’s best to set a course and let the boat’s perfectly capable hull iron out any obstacles that come its way.

The added height gives it a tendency to wallow, so one of the Seakeepers (probably the larger SK18) would be a sensible addition from the options list. Not only will it help with stability when cruising at displacement speed but it will make life on anchor – a place where the X70 is likely to spend a lot of time – much more comfortable.

It’s not a boat that relishes being hurried, but a top speed just shy of 30 knots is par for the course for this style of craft and a cruising speed between 20-25 knots should reward you with a range of around 250nm. Drop it to single figures and you should be able to go around 750nm between fills, with 20 per cent left in reserve.

The big question is whether Prestige’s radical change of direction has paid off and the short answer is a resounding yes. The boat’s exterior styling will not appeal to everybody, but Prestige can play to more traditional tastes with a perfectly good ‘standard’ flybridge in the new 690, while doing something truly different with the X70 and to great effect.
www.prestige-yachts.com
www.asiayachting.net

Prestige 630 arrives in Hong Kong
Asia Yachting is organising viewings of a new Prestige 630 motor yacht in Aberdeen.

Custom Line Navetta 30: Nautical Style

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Custom Line Navetta 30: Nautical Style

February 11, 2021
11:44 am

The first Custom Line Navetta 30 shows there are beautiful ways to update nautical tradition without turning your back on it. By Clare Mahon.

The Custom Line Navetta 30 has an overall length of 28.4m

The Navetta 30 is Custom Line’s first project with an exterior by Filippo Salvetti and interiors by the world-famous Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel (ACPV) architectural studio, both firms giving a special imprint to the brand’s new entry model while respecting and updating the line’s heritage.

Successor of the Navetta 28, the 30 has an overall length of just 28.4m and a hull length just under 24m. Yet although the 93-footer is 15ft shorter than the Navetta 33, this wide-body yacht is just 8in narrower, with a hefty beam of 7.3m (24ft).

The Navetta 30 is the first Custom Line with a Filippo Salvetti exterior

Below the waterline, the Ferretti Group’s Engineering department used CFD techniques to develop a tapered hull shape with 30 per cent more volume than the Navetta 28 and better fuel economy.

With the naval architecture arranged, Salvetti began designing the visible parts of the exterior, masking the vertical connection between the decks with strong horizontal lines and continuous expanses of dark tinted glass. It’s an honest, no-nonsense approach that balances interior and exterior, private and convivial spaces in a functional and appealing package.

The Dual Mode Transom creates a large beach club

Boarding the yacht from a tender, the first feature that welcomes you is an aft platform with running boards that make access easy from the stern or either side.

The garage can accommodate a Williams Sportjet 435 tender and a jetski, and the door is fitted with the Ferretti Group’s patented Dual Mode Transom (DMT) that opens to launch the tender and become a beach platform. An innovative new feature is a flap that keeps the garage dry when closed and doubles as a launching and recovery ramp when open.

Stairs lead to the aft cockpit on the main deck

Symmetrical staircases lead up to the aft cockpit, which has a table, chairs and an extra deep couch that can double as a sunbed. Glass doors to the main saloon slide open wide to reveal a space where the designers’ quest for continuity and connection between all areas of the yacht is as immediately apparent as their good taste and painstaking attention to detail.

The saloon is furnished with freestanding pieces that Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel has designed for top Italian furnishing brands such as B&B Italia and Flexform, as well as structural pieces built to ACPV’s designs by Zago, a long-time Ferretti Group collaborator.

Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel designed the interior and furnishings

EMBRACING NAUTICAL TRADITION

Because of careful choices of materials, shapes and colours, ‘stylish’ aboard the Navetta 30 never overwhelms ‘nautical’. While you’re always aware you’re in a chic and modern interior, you don’t forget you’re at sea because you’re always surrounded by ocean views and because the interiors maintain a discreetly nautical vibe.

Walls are finished in brushed and textured fibreglass, a boatbuilding material resistant to the elements and easy to maintain. Window and door frames have rounded corners as per nautical tradition and are in natural teak, the timber that best expresses an idea of seafaring life.

The main saloon emphasises natural colours and materials

The midships stairwell to the upper deck is lined in a textured material that recalls carbon-fibre, another boatbuilding staple. Even the floor seems to be a continuation of the caulked teak used on the outer decks until you look more closely and see that it’s teak painstakingly inlaid with a thin strip of wenge – an imitation game that masks luxury as functionality.

Riccardo Menin, an architect and interior designer for Custom Line, says: “Antonio Citterio and Patricia Viel chose materials such as natural leather and real hemp cord that would recall the nautical tradition and would age gracefully with time. They wanted the yacht’s interiors to show the signs of the life they have ‘lived,’ not to stay as an untouchable showcase.”

The saloon leads to the galley, upper deck and master suite

At the forward end of the saloon, the portside door leads to the Ernestomeda-designed galley, which includes the crew mess. Protecting the privacy of owners and guests, the galley connects to the crew quarters forward on the lower deck, made up of a captain’s cabin and two with twin bunks, all with ensuite bathrooms.

The saloon’s starboard door leads to a hallway accessing the lower-deck stairs, the day head and the owner’s cabin forward. Like the main saloon, the full-beam owner’s suite gets plenty of natural light and views through large, continuous windows.

The owner’s suite has an office to starboard and huge windows on both sides

The shapes and materials are like the ones used throughout the yacht, but there is added luxury in details such as the bathroom mosaic made of tiny round tiles of recycled glass, an ecologically luxurious material that was created exclusively for this project.

The four guest cabins on the lower deck are all ensuite and comprise two VIPs with inward-facing double beds and two aft-facing twins, one that can convert to a double and be fitted with an additional Pullman bed. All guest cabins have portholes that can be opened to let in fresh air.

UPPER DECKS

The upper deck, accessed from the main saloon or aft cockpit, has a large outdoor area with an oversized teak couch, again purpose-designed for the Navetta 30 by ACPV. A dining table for 10 can fit comfortably in this space, but the showstopper is the spiral staircase in carbon-fibre and teak whose thin chrome balusters are lashed with rope.

The upper-deck saloon and aft deck, which has a 10-seat dining table

The sky lounge and al fresco space are united stylistically not only by the yacht’s characteristic teak flooring but also by teak panels mounted in the ceilings of both areas. Interspersed between the panels are small spotlights, which are used throughout the yacht.

These discreet pinpoints of light were developed for the Navetta 30 by ACPV with Metis Lighting and have a warm, dimming technology that allows owners to adjust them both in brightness and in colour temperature to create a specific mood and atmosphere, whatever the time of day.

The upper deck’s 32sqm ‘sunset lounge’ features furniture by ACPV

The upper deck’s fore area is easy to reach from the port side passage and if the outdoor areas already mentioned aren’t enough, there’s also the sun deck. Set low so that it doesn’t give the Navetta 30 a top-heavy look, the large deck has a second custom couch like the one on the upper deck, a grill, sink and fridge by the mast, and a forward bar for enjoying a sundowner or simply taking in the view from on high.

The bridge is on the upper deck and features six large Simrad touchscreens. Like all Navetta displacement models, the 30 is designed for covering long distances with low fuel consumption and has an impressive range of about 2,000nm at 10 knots. To assure comfort and reduce sound and vibration, the engine room has a ‘floating floor’, while ceilings have extra soundproofing.

The sun deck features a huge sofa aft and a bar area forward

With the Navetta 30, Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel has shown that nautical doesn’t have to be predictable and that there’s a happy medium between nautical and style. Their dash of new perspective coupled with Custom Line’s careful attention to fuel efficiency and comfort make the Navetta 30 an important new player on the water today.
www.customline-yacht.com
www.ferrettigroup.com

Ferretti Yachts 670 in Taiwan
In Kaohsiung, Ferretti Group and Amal Yachting staged the first of two handover events for the first Ferretti Yachts 670 sold in Taiwan..

MCY 70 Skylounge: New level of luxury

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

MCY 70 Skylounge: New level of luxury

February 3, 2021
1:07 pm

Asia’s first MCY 70 Skylounge has turned heads since its arrival in Hong Kong, where the model customised for the region shows why an enclosed flybridge provides year-round appeal. Words: Andrew Dembina. Photos: Asia Yachting.

The MCY 70 Skylounge on the run along Hong Kong Island’s south side

Asia Yachting kicked off 2021 in lively fashion as the regional dealer hosted the Asian ‘reveal’ of the MCY 70 Skylounge online from Hong Kong and continued private viewings of the eye-catching new model.

Like all Monte Carlo Yachts models, the Skylounge Collection is designed by Carlo Nuvolari and Dan Lenard of Venice-based Nuvolari Lenard. The duo’s principal remit was to create an elegant enclosed flybridge, a rare feature on Italian-built motor yachts of this size, and also use it to house the yacht’s sole helm station.

Last year, Skylounge versions were released for the MCY 70 and MCY 76, two of three models (along with the 66) introduced in 2019 as Monte Carlo Yachts unveiled its ‘second generation’ of yachts for its second decade.

Regional dealer Asia Yachting brought the MCY 70 Skylounge to Hong Kong

Initially targeted at the US market, the MCY 70 Skylounge debuted at the Miami Yacht Show last February before the first model in the region arrived in October in Hong Kong, where it’s expected to have a similar appeal in a climate featuring cool temperatures in winter and extreme humidity in the summer. And as usual, Asia Yachting has specified options and customisations to appeal to local tastes.

TOP FORM

The range name highlights the yacht’s most special feature – its fully enclosable and beautifully outfitted skylounge that occupies most of the flybridge.

The spacious skylounge includes huge side windows, a retractable skylight, the sole helm station, and stairs to the saloon on the main deck

MCY’s Skylounge Collection was conceived to provide a new concept for international markets, a yacht that can be enjoyed all year round, with an internal stairwell connecting main and upper-deck interiors that can be sealed and easily heated or cooled.

For the new hull tailored for Asia, the ‘Extra Tropical’ air-conditioning option was one of the boxes ticked by Olivier Besson, CEO and founder of Asia Yachting, which represents the boutique, high-end Italian builder in Hong Kong and Macau, as well as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and the Philippines.

The skylounge houses the yacht’s sole helm station

“This is one of the most important features that we know local owners appreciate,” he says. “Owners are keen to escape the high humidity we have in Hong Kong and in other parts of Asia. When you sit upstairs you feel as if you are inside, but because of the panoramic windows and the glass roof (a retractable skylight), you feel in touch with nature and the environment outside.

“When the yacht arrived, I was particularly impressed by the cosy feel of the intimate terrace at the back of the flybridge – great for two people or a couple to relax and have a private moment. It would be a good spot to enjoy a cigar.”

The aft deck of the flybridge is a cosy nook, like a balcony for the skylounge

The enclosed upper deck really does benefit from its surround glazing, whether seated on the long, roomy sofa or the lounging platforms either side of the leather central helm seat. The pilot has superb, uninterrupted visibility around the boat, and the control switches and screens are generously spaced – and why not? After all, this is the sole helm aboard, so freeing up more usable space below.

MAIN COURSE

The Skylounge line’s standard design allows indoor access between the flybridge and the main deck, although it can be customised like most other aspects of all MCY models. If desired, stairwell access can alternatively be positioned outside, from the cockpit.

Like so much of the interior and exterior design by Nuvolari Lenard, the spiral, reinforced glass inner stairwell is a talking-point feature that oozes both elegance and functionality – its transparency allows the perception of yet more space. But volume is not something the main saloon is short of, as there is no helm across this split-level area.

View of the main deck from the skylounge stairs

As such, Asia Yachting opted for a galley-up configuration to port of the upper level forward, facing the dining suite to starboard. This showpiece galley wants for nothing, with two sets of fridge-freezer

drawers, a cooking station, storage and dishwashing units that rival many high-end domestic kitchens.

“We took the galley-up option to make it a part of the décor and lifestyle for those aboard,” Besson says. “It’s a place where owners can chat to those on board easily, and people can stand around and share food and drinks in a relaxed, comfortable way.”

Next to the dining table is a thoughtfully-placed weather-tight door to the starboard side deck that leads to the bow or cockpit – handy for underway manoeuvres, carrying food or drink from the galley, or for simple access.

The large galley and dining area forward benefit from the absence of a lower helm station

A step down to the aft half of the saloon is a sitting area with a long, deep L-shaped sofa and armchairs covered with Hermès and Armani Casa fabrics, as is the case on seating throughout the boat. An oversized TV in the ceiling panelling can be lowered or concealed at the press of a remote-control button.

To port, just inside the cockpit doors, is a day head carefully concealed behind dark chocolate brown-coloured wooden louvred slats. This space can be alternatively configured as a storage room or for access below deck to crew quarters and storage for the water toys.

BACK AND FORTH

While the new Skylounge Collection focus may be on the interconnected indoor areas, the breezy, completely sheltered cockpit is another comfortable gathering or solo spot at a marine-teak dining table, with its elevated view out to sea over the swim platform at the stern.

The aft cockpit on the main deck

Shower facilities are concealed in cabinetry in one of the twin staircases that lead downward, while the rear platform provides access to the airy engine room, which also leads to the twin crew cabin that provides a buffer between the engines and master suite.

Up front, the large 124sqft (11.5sqm) foredeck is a signature MCY feature, an attractive, comfortable area distinguished by its central passageway. Lowered bulwarks allow great sea views from the sun pads, which are fitted with pop-up recliner back and head supports.

The yacht features a flexible foredeck

The semi-circular teak dining tables on each side are electrically adjustable and can be linked by an extension panel to create a substantial dining surface for up to 10 people. Asia Yachting opted for a bimini on the bow, which can be easily put up to offer shade to those on deck.

GET DOWN

A dedicated stairway at the aft of the saloon leads to the master suite via a corridor that’s also home to two washer-dryer machines on the lower deck. Light floods into the main bedroom area through the shipyard’s iconic and newly-enlarged overlapping circular windows, and the cabin makes full use of the midships beam of 17ft 10in (5.45m).

The master suite has private access and the shipyard’s iconic overlapping circular windows

The stateroom is comfortably and functionally self-contained, with walk-in wardrobe, large marble-clad modern bathroom, storage cabinets, dressing table-cum-desk and a sofa.

The guest cabins have separate access via another walkway from the forward end of the saloon. Two compact twin cabins feature berths that can be joined to make a double bed. The port twin has ensuite access to a bathroom, while the starboard version uses the same but with corridor access.

The VIP cabin is in the bow, forward of two convertible twin guest cabins

A VIP ensuite cabin at the bow has decent natural light from panel windows and plenty of hanging and storage space. Like everywhere else on board – including the engine room – headroom is notably generous.

Since Asia Yachting started staging private viewings of the new model, Besson says visitors “appreciated the new interior design that we made luxurious and bright, plus they liked the additional living space upstairs, which matches their needs for shelter and cool temperatures”.

Asia’s first MCY 70 Skylounge relaxes on the south of Hong Kong Island

Following the global launch of the MCY 70 Skylounge last February, the MCY 76 Skylounge made its world premiere at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October, with the yard indicating that an even bigger version is to follow.
www.montecarloyachts.it
www.asiayachting.net
Note: The original article appeared in Yacht Style Issue 57

MCY 70 Skylounge: Asian Premiere! O
Monte Carlo Yachts dealer Asia Yachting hosts the Asian Premiere of the MCY 70 Skylounge on Facebook Live and invites private viewings in Hong Kong.

Amadea shows masters at work

Reviews / yachtstyle2020

Amadea shows masters at work

December 31, 2020
3:20 pm

Based in the UAE, the 106m Amadea is a masterpiece by designers Espen Øino and Francois Zuretti, builder Lürssen and owner’s representative Imperial, which describes her as “the most detailed superyacht ever built”.

Built by Windy under Imperial’s supervision, Amadea’s 11m custom Limo tender and 11m custom Open tender match the lines of the mothership and even feature miniature versions of the albatross sculpture

One of the nice things about visiting Amadea by tender is the views. Not from Amadea but from around it. Admittedly, a tender doesn’t offer the bird’s-eye perspective that the owner enjoys when he arrives or leaves by helicopter and looks down on Amadea’s iconic overlapping overhangs, shaped like hexagons and described by exterior designer Espen Øino as ‘clamshells’.

However, arrival by the 11m Windy Limousine tender – also designed by Øino – does allow you to see the 106m Lürssen build in all her glory before circling around and gradually closing in on the details.

The huge art deco-style albatross welded to the bow was created by sculptor and designer Willem Lenssinck

On both sides of this colossus, the standout features are the three angled, protruding balconies, each sheltered by the clamshell above. Rounding the bow allows you many angles of the art-deco albatross sculpture, whose beak points the way when Amadea glides over the seas.

The stern, 348ft away, is another beautiful sight, with the broad swim platform dominated by ‘AMADEA’ in backlit lettering, topped by the 10m see-through pool on the main deck. However, the tender arrives at a foldout platform on the starboard side, where guests are escorted to the meeting room before taking a lift upstairs to the main deck.

The vast swim platform is a good base for watersports and lounging by the sea

PYC-compliant, this 4,400GT superyacht can welcome up to 22 guests while cruising and 16 overnight in its eight suites. Based in the UAE since early 2020, Amadea was originally scheduled to appear at the Dubai International Boat Show, which has been twice postponed and is now set to be held from March 9-13, 2021.

Delivered to her owner in 2017, the yacht only made her public debut two years later at the Monaco Yacht Show though owner’s representative Imperial, also the Central Agency for her sale. The Monaco-based brokerage has been behind several of the leading superyachts launched in recent years including the 136m Flying Fox, 107m Lana and 82m RoMEA, all for charter.

In contrast, Amadea was designed for private use by an exacting owner and remains a tribute to immense attention to detail in all aspects of design and construction. Her pristine condition is also a testament to the dedication and professionalism of her crew – up to 36 on board at any one time – who have ensured she’s as good as new.

Espen Øino designed Amadea’s exterior

Julia Stewart, Director of Imperial, says: “Amadea is the most detailed superyacht ever built, with extreme care given to every single area or item on board. She is a masterpiece and it’s a source of pride for Imperial to be involved with a superyacht of this calibre.

“All clients who have visited her have been very surprised to find out she was delivered in 2017. She looks in better condition than some new deliveries in 2020. This is not by chance. We invest a lot of time and effort in her presentation and condition to exceed the expectations of demanding clients.”

HEAVYWEIGHT COLLABORATION

Amadea is another triumph by Monaco-based Øino and Germany’s Lürssen, arguably the world’s leading designer and builder of large superyachts respectively, who both also teamed up with Imperial on Flying Fox.

“Working with Espen is a real pride and joy on every superyacht project,” Stewart says. “Our collaboration is truly outstanding and always gives birth to something extraordinary.

Øino describes Amadea’s iconic overlapping overhangs as ‘clamshells’

“So, while Espen focuses his creativity on designing functional and breathtaking masterpieces, Imperial plays its part with our detailed construction management procedures built on thousands of hours spent at the yard, with the suppliers, with our clients, to make the dream a reality.”

Imperial also has a like-minded partner in Lürssen, which built Amadea in northern Germany, where her layout and details were kept very much under wraps. The steel hull has a huge 18m beam, significantly more than many other yachts of this length, while the decks are not made of steel but of aluminium.

Amadea also has an astonishing range of 8,000nm at 13 knots, powered by two MTU 20V 4,300kW engines and armed with 392,000 litres of fuel – that’s 392 cubic metres or more liquid than in a 25m by 10m swimming pool with a depth of 1.5m! There are also Quantum Zero Speed stabilisers for exceptional comfort at anchor or underway.

“Utmost quality, deadline respect and precise follow-up are the key guidelines of our construction management procedures. We learn from every yard we collaborate with and obviously Lürssen’s impressive record of luxury superyachts, especially those above 90m or 100m, speaks for itself,” Stewart says.

The Lürssen build has a range of 8,000nm at 13 knots

“As the most detailed yacht ever built, Amadea boasts unique finishing that immediately catches the eyes of visitors. All materials and furniture used on board were carefully made with outstanding attention. We can proudly say Amadea is the exact representation of one of our mottos: attention to all details.”

MAIN ATTRACTIONS

Stewart says Imperial’s relationship with Lürssen has “explored and reached new boundaries in yacht construction”, and Amadea’s 33ft-long pool is an example of fine design, craftsmanship and

engineering coming together.

It starts with steps down to four submerged bar stools, where guests can socialise with those lounging on the L-shaped sofas forward or those lazing in the sunbathing areas on either side. Or, of course, they can just enjoy the infinity view aft and the pool itself where further sunken steps lead to the deeper swimming area, which has a large, decorative mosaic inlay on the bottom.

The aft bridge deck and owner’s deck below both have bioethanol fire pits outside, while the 10m long swimming pool is the centrepiece of the main deck aft

The main-deck saloon is your likely welcome to the astonishingly ornate interior by Francois Zuretti. Based in Nice, just along the French coast from Imperial and Øino in Monaco, Zuretti started his career creating Middle Eastern palaces and royal residences. Since 1987, he has been designing superyacht interiors including Ambrosia for Ambros Young, one of Asia’s leading superyacht owners.

Amadea’s 2,700sqft saloon starts with entrances either side of a beautifully illuminated bar that faces forward to large lounges on each side and a two-deck atrium, formed by an oval cut-out in the ceiling that opens to the owner’s deck.

Forward are a games table and more sofas beside a hand-painted piano by Pleyel, the Paris-based piano builder founded in 1807 that has built for the likes of Chopin. The customised baby grand features 24-karat gold hardware from pedals to hinges and took 18 months to build.

Forward of the swimming pool, the main deck has a covered area with a games table, outdoor bar and other seating areas, and leads to the main saloon and atrium

The formal dining table seats up to 14 guests and stretches the width of the saloon, with doors opening to balconies on either side, while midships is the central staircase featuring red carpeting and a rectangular glass lift that connects the guest decks.

The forward part of the main deck is dedicated to five of the guest suites – two to starboard, two to port, and the full-width VIP cabin, which features two king-size beds. All bedrooms have dressing tables, desks, sofas and ensuite bathrooms, while the VIP cabin has a full lounge to starboard.

OWNER’S PARADISE

Above the main deck is the 92m-long owner’s deck, where the owner and guests can arrive by helicopter on the enormous forward helipad, which has a 12m D-value and can accommodate up to 3.5 tonnes take-off weight.

Situated on the 92m-long owner’s deck, the vast helideck has a 12m D-value and allows the owners to land and walk straight to their private chambers

From the elevator or stairs, a forward hallway leads to the ‘private chambers’ including a beauty centre to port and the owner’s office to starboard. The vast bedroom features a huge bathroom to port with tub, shower and separate spa, while to starboard is the enormous dressing room.

The full-beam stateroom offers magnificent views and features the forward-facing bed to port and lounge to starboard, both facing a large TV in the middle of the front window.

The stateroom has access to beautiful balconies on both sides, which offer comfortable, cosy nooks for peace and quiet with breeze and open views. Forward of the stateroom is the owner’s private retreat, a covered outdoor zone with lounging areas either side of a whirlpool.

Although the deck is designed for the owner to live autonomously and in total privacy if needed, the aft social areas are ideal for hosting guests and intimate dinner parties.

The aft end of the owner’s deck features a large, round dining table, a portside bar offering great sea views and lots of aft-facing seating

Aft of the staircase is a gym to starboard, while to port is an elegant dining room with round table, a central ‘degustation area’ featuring rare whiskies and cognacs, and a wine cabinet. (The main wine cellar is on the tank deck.)

The owner’s lounge features large sofas and a fireplace, while there’s also a games table, self-playing piano, library and fun views down to the main deck through the atrium. Outside, the huge covered aft deck has a round dining table for 10-12 guests, a bar with great sea views and aft-facing sofas around a bioethanol fire pit.

“On every deck, Amadea offers everything an experienced owner could imagine – ample spaces, tasteful outfitting and perfect use of space,” Stewart says. “She was designed and built so every single space, inside and outside, has a function. There are no lost areas.”

CINEMA, SUN DECK, WINTER GARDEN

External stairs lead up to the bridge deck, where the aft area offers another great outdoor area with a bioethanol fire pit and lots of seating and lounging space. The cinema lounge is arguably the bridge deck’s main attraction, featuring D-Box technology that moves and vibrates the sofas in time with the action on the screen. This multi-purpose room can also double as a conference room.

The deck also houses two guest cabins – a VIP suite to port and a double to starboard – while the forward part of the deck is dedicated to the officer’s and captain’s cabins, ship’s office and the wheelhouse.

The bridge deck provides a cosy place to unwind in the evenings

The sun deck boasts the best views on the yacht and lives up to its name with a large jacuzzi flanked by sunbathing areas, although the area can be covered by a bimini when needed. Forward are outdoor sofas, chairs and coffee tables, plus sun loungers to port. With a first-class AV/IT system, the sun deck is also suitable for events and parties as the jacuzzi can be covered by teak flooring and transformed into a stage.

However, the sun deck is also home to the enclosed winter garden, an indoor dining room draped and decorated with plants and featuring a custom-made dining table that can be extended for large numbers of guests.

“The main-deck dining table and the winter-garden dining table on the sun deck are outstanding creations and among fantastic masterpieces custom-designed for Amadea,” Stewart says. “Many key items have been designed for the yacht.”

WATER SPORTS AND WELLNESS

Those customised items include two Windy tenders – the Limousine version for guests and the 11m open version designed for the owner’s use, both featuring a miniature albatross figurehead. There’s also a Pascoe Beachlander and two Castoldi Jet Tender Solas rescue boats.

If the tender collection is impressive, the water toys are outstanding. Four Sea-Doo jetskis, four Seabobs, a jetpack and flyboard are among an incredible range of toys that also includes a 20m inflatable sea pool, an inflatable trampoline and an inflatable slide that connects to the bridge deck!

The lower-deck sea terrace is a nice place to relax after time in the spa

There are four sets of dive equipment, waterskis, wakeboards, paddleboards, other boards, kayaks, towable inflatables, PFDs, wetsuits, protective head gear, fishing gear … you get the idea!

To recover after a day of water sports and outdoor activity, Amadea offers a superb wellness area on the lower deck. A door on the port side of the main saloon entrance accesses stairs leading down to a

Finnish sauna, hammam, chromotherapy room and massage room.

And if you fancy even more R&R after all the relaxation, there’s a Moroccan-inspired lounge with comfortable daybeds, sofas and cosy cushions that opens out to a large sea terrace, offering waterside views, a cool breeze and the sounds of waves lapping.

“The whole spa area is fantastic and offers much more than anybody would expect prior to coming on board,” Stewart comments. “The spa and lounge with sea terrace are among so many areas to enjoy on Amadea, from the 10m pool to the huge interiors with two wide saloons or the cinema with D-Box seating. Amadea offers everything a superyacht owner could expect.”

While the ownership of such enormous vessels is a rarefied world, superyachts’ relevance to such owners has only heightened in the Covid-19 era due to the increased importance of seclusion, safety and family time, and the appeal of the great outdoors.

Night view of Amadea, which has been in the UAE since early 2020

“Yachts have long been considered as the safest place to be and during this period, superyachts have obviously gained in appeal,” Stewart says.

“When all luxury resorts and hotels closed their doors, when travelling became hugely difficult, the yachting industry immediately stood out as ultra-high-net-worth individuals were looking to escape the madness around the virus situation. This is still the case today.”

Amadea is a stunning tribute to the combined strengths of Øino, Zuretti, Lürssen and Imperial, the latter ensuring the sky-high standards involved in producing an eight-cabin yacht of this calibre are continued in its daily operations, overseen by a proven first-class crew.

“Imperial’s operational teams and the crew have maintained the vessel in pristine condition, like she was delivered yesterday. This is hard work day-to-day, but worth it,” Stewart says. “In fact, the real benefit for a future owner is they can buy a vessel in better condition than a new build just delivered.”
www.imperial-yachts.com

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