Italy Yacht Charter 2017 - Lavagna Yacht Charter

Lavagna is an interesting town built in the hills which offers lofty mansions, narrow, colour streets and several quaint cafes. It is a great mooring destination for anyone enjoying a yacht rental holiday along the Italian Riviera.Lavagna is a port located along the Italian Mediterranean coast line not far from Monaco and France and is home to a marina with superyachts and visiting luxury charter yachts, both motor yachts and sailing yachts. If your boat stops in on a Lavagna yacht charter there are good sea food restaurants, good beaches and a medieval, charming town centre.

Discover Many Hidden Treasures 

Stopping in Lavagna means discovering a wealth of hidden treasures in the form of paintings and sculptures by Genoese school artists. The town centre is filled with workshops and studios that make beautiful traditional handicraft items.

Lavagna also was the first to spread Slate as a form of art and is often referred to as black gold of Liguria. Most roofs of the colourful homes in Liguria are covered with this characteristic slate and had been discovered centuries ago.

Picture Perfect Beautiful Views 

Lavagna is a beautiful seaside town with a fun filled range of activities. Its many discos, pubs and restaurants ensure that you will be able to enjoy a lively night. Located on the left of Entella torrent, this coastal town has a long sandy coastline with the breath-taking backdrop of hills covered with olive groves.

Because of its laid back lifestyle, it offers a perfect relaxing spot for yacht charter vacationers. Originally Lavagna had been agriculture, maritime and slate production centred economy which has now changed to tourism centric economy as the popularity of the town has increased over the years.

Lavagna also has a very rich culture and history dating back to pre-Roman origins. Over the years, the history of Lavagna has been intertwined with its counts that originated from the well-known Fieschi family.

Even today, the residential areas of Lavagna have maintained a very medieval air because it still retains the original medieval settlement organized along two of the central axis. Via Dante, the older one runs parallel to the coast while the other one is Via Rome.

What makes a Lavagna luxury yacht charter even more special is its rich gastronomy and its fine quality beaches which is what most people look for their yacht charter vacations.

Lavagna is a feast for all the senses with its spectacular views, its rich history and culture, its many authentic restaurants and beautiful beaches. A yachting vacation to the Italian Riviera can definitely be made much more enjoyable and a lot of fun with a stop at Lavagna.

Superyachts, both sailing and motor yachts, can berth in port Lavagne in Italy and it can be a stopping place on your Italian Riviera luxury yacht charter.

Italy Yacht Charter Mediterranean Luxury Yacht Charter Boats

Whatever option you decide on, rest assured that you will explore Italy to its fullest potential. Yacht charter has never been easier. With Yacht.travel you can check all of the available booking schedules for yachts in Italy in real time and choose the time-slot which is most convenient for you...Yacht charter made simple Yachts.travel makes it easy to rent a yacht in Italy. We have a range of options for yacht charter, bareboat and crewed, ranging from affordable to luxurious.

Italian coast boasts with many splendid tourist resorts which offer pleasure vacation, entertainment and various sport activities; all in constant tendency of improvement in order to match the demands of visitors still with the main objective to preserve nature and to prevent any damage to the marine ecosystem.

Some of the Italian archipelagos and small islands have turned into protected marine areas. However, there is a tendency to allow pleasure boaters to use the system of protected marine areas by installing buoys they can tie up to or by providing other services.

Still, there are numerous interesting places one can choose as his starting base to discover many natural resources of this country, splendid beaches, old towns along the coast, lavishly equipped marinas…Whatever place you choose, you will be amazed by its beauty and variety of choices; providing all the facilities to the visitors.

Yachting facilities in Italy are of a very high standard due to a large resident boating population and considerable boat-building industry.

THE MOST INTERESTING STARTING BASES IN ITALY:

Sicily and Aeolian islands
Sicily is well known for its unique natural beauty, Etna’s volcano, its splendid coast, islands and islets. One can start his journey in Palermo in the north of the island, a city with numerous monuments and dense orchards. The city has preserved some of Arabic and Norman atmosphere. Another base to start your journey could be Marsala, an astonishing town founded by the Cartaginians. It’s a pleasant picturesque place, famous for its wine. Sant’Agata di Militello is located somewhere in between Palermo and Messina. It’s an ideal starting point for cruising the Aeolian islands.

Sardinia
The landscape of Sardinia offers a lifetime vacation of its rich environment. Portisco is located between Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo. The place is ideal for sailing tourism and it offers various services for tourists. Besides, it is only 10 minutes away from the airport. Carloforte is another starting base, as interesting as well. It is the only populated area on the island of San Pietro.

Tuscan islands
The west coast of Italy is well known for its splendid islands and bases which offer all the facilities to the visitors. Etrusca Marina in Scarlino is an excellent location in the south of Piombino. The island of Elba is another great location for your sailing vacation, offering numerous ports and anchorages. It is one of the most attractive and colorful islands in Italy with following starting bases: Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Marina Marciana.

Gulf of Naples
Naples is an astonishing city which offers numerous monuments and museums of historical interest. It is the great starting base to a journey towards the nearby islands. Agropoli is located between Capo Campanella (Sorrento) and Capo Palinuro. The ruins of its castle reminds us of its Byzantine origin, then some examples of the Greek architecture ( Porta Rosa ) etc. It is an ideal starting base towards the islands of the gulf ( Capri, Ischia and Procida ), along the coast of Cilento or even further to explore the Pontine islands.

Vibo Valentia Marina, which is only a few km away from the airport, could be a great choice for those who would like to visit the islands of Lipari.

Monte Argentario 
Among the most interesting spots in Tuscan Riviera with attractive tourist centers, beautiful nature and extraordinary sea depths for diving activities. There are three ports to start your journey from; Santo Stefano, Ercole and Marina di Cala Galera.

Castellamare di Stabia 
Located between Naples and Sorrento. Besides being an excellent starting base towards the nearby islands ( Ischia, Procida and Capri ), there are 28 mineral springs, so one can enjoy in a mineral-water cure both in the Antique thermae and the new one as well.

Formia
A picturesque town with mild climate which makes it a great base for those who intend to explore the beauty of the Pontine islands.

Genoa 
A city of contrasts, both in culture and architecture, a real modern metropolis. However, it is the only place with colorful and exotic atmosphere of the old port. From there, you can explore the coast towards the tourist center of Ventimiglia, or in another direction, towards Cinque Terre.

Marsala 
An excellent position which makes it an ideal starting base towards the Egadi islands (Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo).

Nettuno
Another suggestion as a starting point. Just like Formia, it is ideal for sailing towards the Pontine islands.

Palau 
An important tourist center with magnificent panorama to the archipelago of Maddalena. It stands out with its granite cliff (Il Capo d’Orso) and provides a sailing route through the archipelago.

Procida 
A volcanic island with only 4 km of length, steep coast, green orchards and vineyards. A nice starting base to explore the Gulf of Naples and its surroundings.

Punta Ala 
Once a name of a rocky promontory, is now a synonym of a tourist center and luxury residence with a vivacious tourist port from where you can start your journey towards nearby islands.

Salerno
An antique town sloping down from the hill towards the sea. It’s an excellent choice for those who would like to stay around the Gulf of Naples or even for those who would like to set towards the Aeolian islands.

San Felice Circeo 
Another famous starting base with an extraordinary panorama of the Pontine islands. Along with Formia and Nettuno, it offers a great vacation cruising the islands.

San Remo 
An important tourist center. The first hotel in this town was called London, due to wealthy British tourists who were attracted by its mild climate and its romantic landscape. It was the beginning of its great development, construction of hotels, villas, parks and gardens. The city was transformed to the most important flower market in Italy.

Syracuse 
Once the most powerful city of Sicily. Today, it offers splendid landscape, crystal sea and Mediterranean vegetation. An excellent starting base indeed.

Trapani 
A great choice to start your cruising vacation towards the Egadi islands.

Viareggio 
Once a marine shelter. There are various small ports in the area, gardens of palms, oleander and tamarisk, sandy beach, elegant hotels, various cultural events etc.

Vieste
Located on the east side of the Gargano peninsula. It’s a picturesque place with its old part of a medieval atmosphere on a rocky promontory isolated between two long sandy beaches.

Florida Luxury Yacht Charter - Yacht Charters Florida Trawler Charters

Whatever option you decide on, rest assured that you will explore Florida to its fullest potential. Yacht charter has never been easier. With Yacht.travel you can check all of the available booking schedules for yachts in Florida in real time and choose the time-slot which is most convenient for you.Yacht charter made simple... Yachts.travel makes it easy to rent a yacht in Florida. We have a range of options for yacht charter, bareboat and crewed, ranging from affordable to luxurious.

Florida yacht charters provide access to an excellent year round climate. The best time of year for yacht charter in Florida is from November to April, although though the off-season also provides for a very pleasant experience. The southernmost part of the continental United States is a sportfisherman’s playground and an easy jumping-off point for charterers headed to the Bahamas.

Boasting mostly sub-tropical weather and the powerful Gulf Stream current flowing just off the east coast of the state, South Florida features the remarkable Florida Keys, a string of islands with the southernmost being the notable Key West. One can cruise the various Keys inside the reef in shoal-draft vessels off the eastern “ocean” side of the Keys, or make a straight shot from Miami to Key West running farther offshore.

The “back country” side of the Keys, off the western side, has calm waters, quiet natural scenes, and tremendous island sunsets. The west coast of Florida also features quiet, calm-sea cruising, and no shortage of fishing opportunities.

The west coast of Florida also features quiet, calm-sea cruising, and no shortage of fishing opportunities. Encompassing a great sailing infrastructure throughout most of the popular areas of sailing, Florida Keys and Fort Lauderdale, the sunshine state is likely to be a dream boating vacation for everyone aboard.

Proclaimed to be some of the finest sailing waters on the East Coast of the United States, the Florida Keys are home to the only coral reef in continental United States. Key West’s City Marina and Oceanside Marina are the two major hubs for yacht charters in the Keys.

The marinas can hold almost 400 slips in combined capacity and it is essential to book prior to arrival in the high sailing seasons between November and April. Experience the beautiful weather in the south of Florida and journey through the small islands of the Key including Marquesa, Garden Key and the Dry Tortugas.

Extended sailing holidays can also see you sailing to the Bahamas for a taste of the Caribbean life. Explore the land of the picturesque Boca Chita Key, relax upon the beaches and know the reasons why the Keys islands are often proclaimed to be paradise. Charter though the Hawk Channels and Largo Sound where bird lovers will delight in the large variety of marine bird life as well as Bald eagles and other large birds, as they pass through the narrow rivers of the mangroves.

The Florida Keys are full of endless wonders and also offer the keen sailors who visit the towns and cities of the islands great fresh seafood for dinners and lunches. You may even like to catch your own!

Fort Lauderdale is another great charter area known for being one of the few areas in the world where salt water and fresh water fishing are within 20 minutes distance. Sailing through the greater Fort Lauderdale region, those aboard are likely to catch and enjoy great fresh seafood dinners whilst relaxing on their boats under the Florida sun.

To the south of Fort Lauderdale, sailors will enjoy many sights, relax on beautiful beaches and discover the joys of snorkelling. Anchor in the beach at the North end of Bimini and delight in a beautiful picnic lunch. Snorkel around the 1940’s concrete hull sunken freighter off the coast of Sappona and see the beautiful marine life that have taken up residence.

The lighthouses and beaches along Gun Cay, Tuna alley and Cat Cay are also renown attractions for sailors in the area to enjoy a break from their sailing trip ashore. The marinas and basins in Fort Lauderdale provide swift easy access to other locations throughout Florida, including Miami right down to the Bahamas and even Key West.

106m Superyacht AMADEA Delivered By Lurssen 106m/348ft

Leaving the German shipyard for Norway yesterday afternoon, the 106m/348ft motor yacht AMADEA has been delivered from Lurssen.Following the announcement that the 96m/315ft motor yacht VERTIGO was delivered from Feadship, the news that AMADEA has also been delivered marks a truly spectacular week in the superyacht world.

Cutting a distinctive figure in the water thanks to her Espen Oeino styled exterior, AMADEA has been shrouded in secrecy from the very beginning of her build, with very few details being made official.

What is known, however, is that her 2m elaborate bowsprit positions her in the leagues of the largest superyachts in the world. Specifically, she comes in at 33rd, meaning that Espen Oeino has styled 11 of the largest 100 superyachts whilst Lurssen have built 26 of them.

Images captured during her sea trials revealed that AMADEA includes a generously proportioned swimming pool on her aft deck as well as a full-size helipad on her bow.

Making it even easier for guests to access the water, a broad swim platform extends off the aft whilst the wrap around deck design allows guests to make their way around the exterior with similar ease.

As new information regarding AMADEA becomes available, YachtCharterFleet will be sure to keep readers fully up to date.

Spanning five extensive decks and governed by remarkable design, Lurssen superyacht AMADEA is nothing short of iconic

Whilst AMADEA is not expected to be made available for charter, be sure to take a look at all of the Lurssen superyachts which are available for charter.

http://blog.yachtcharterfleet.com/post/106m-superyacht-amadea-delivered-by-lurssen-7318.htm

Superyacht ‘Project Thunder’ Launched By Lurssen 102m/333ft

Still shrouded in plenty of secrecy, the eye-catching 120m+ motor yacht 'Project Thunder' was launched this weekend at the Lurssen shipyard in Bremen.Whilst there are few official details confirmed, there was a series of images published over the weekend which appear to show Project Thunder hitting the water for the very first time.  following  24 months after her keel was laid back in 2015.

Designed by the legendary Espen Oeino, Lurssen have hinted that her interior is traditional and she will be cruising mostly in Asian waters following her delivery. This leads us to believe it may be built for a local owner.

With her project name derived from Leigong, a mythical God in Asian mythology, such attractive cruising grounds have been playfully hinted at by the shipyard.

Complete with a head-turning black finish, five decks, and a superbly styled superstructure, there’s no doubt that the German shipyard are in the midst of building another classic.

Though she isn’t expected to be delivered until sometime in 2018, there is still plenty to get excited about after taking a look at these early photographs.

Nicely reminiscent of the 102m/333ft luxury yacht SYMPHONY, the sleek curves at the stern of Project Thunder call to mind the styling of the iconic Feadship superyacht.

Indeed, just like SYMPHONY, there is a gentle sweep which extends to the swim platform on the aft, a section which seems to be sizeable enough for a beach club.

Setting her apart from other large superyachts, however, are the the masculine lines and strong angles which lend Project Thunder a totally unique profile.

What’s more, with a cutaway section hinting towards a possible atrium amidships at the starboard side, there’s plenty to be speculating about when it comes to her interior layout.

The largest Lurssen superyacht to be launched so far this year, Project Thunder is certain to inspire a wealth of intrigue
Following her delivery, it has been speculated that the superyacht will enter the top 20 largest superyachts ever built. Interestingly, our records indicate that Espen Oeino has designed the exterior of 11 of the top 100 superyachts, beaten only by Tim Heywood who has designed 12 of them.

Lurssen have also revealed that Project Thunder will undergo sea trials following the installation of her interior in the coming months.

As more details emerge regarding this new build, YachtCharterFleet.com will be sure to keep readers fully informed.

Whilst awaiting further information regarding M/Y Project Thunder, be sure to take a look at all of the Lurssen superyachts which are available for private yacht charter vacations.

http://blog.yachtcharterfleet.com/post/superyacht-lproject-thunderr-launched-by-lurssen-7356.htm

Feadship Superyacht FAITH Delivered 96m/318ft

One of the largest motor yachts ever built by the legendary shipyard, the 96m/318ft superyacht FAITH was delivered to her new owner from Feadship this month.Defined by graceful exterior lines styled by Redman Whiteley Dixon, and blessed with a naval architecture courtesy of De Voogt, FAITH is no doubt one of the most distinct superyachts on the water.

The third largest superyacht ever built by Feadship, FAITH comes just behind the 99m/325ft motor yacht ‘Madame Gu’ and the 102m/333ft luxury yacht SYMPHONY- the largest ever built by SYMPHONY.

Currently moored in Antibes next to the similarly enormous Madame Gu, FAITH features a wealth of exciting features sure to make her one the most remarkable deliveries of the year.

From the helipad and garage located on the bow, to the gigantic beach club located at the stern, everything about superyacht FAITH can be reasonably be considered a standout quality.

Though there are few published images of the interior, it has been confirmed that Redman Whiteley Dixon are responsible for the design, with French house Chahan Design completing the decor.

It has also been confirmed that FAITH is capable of sleeping up to 18 guests across 9 cabins. Sure to be the one everyone is keenest to see is the master suite, whilst the 2 VIP suites are also sure to generate plenty of intrigue.

Supersized and stylish, Feadship superyacht FAITH is sure to become one of the most memorable deliveries from the Dutch shipyard

Whilst M/Y FAITH is not expected to become available for charter, feel free to take a look at all of the Feadship superyachts which are available for rent.

Photos by: Raphael Montigneaux.

http://blog.yachtcharterfleet.com/post/feadship-superyacht-faith-delivered-7384.htm

Superyacht ARETI Launched By Lurssen 85m/280ft

Leaving her shed at their Rendsburg facility yesterday morning, the 85m/280ft motor yacht ARETI is the latest fully-custom superyacht to be launched by Lurssen.Prior to the official announcement earlier today, very little had been revealed regarding superyacht ARETI. Shrouded in mystery, the German shipyard had maintained their characteristic secrecy over the fully-custom build, revealing very little about the on board features and layout.

In the absence of confirmed details, however, it is possible to speculate from new images and the size of the yacht the kinds of things to expect.

Indeed, it would be safe to presume that ARETI, previously known as 'Project Sasha', includes a helipad on the bow, as well as a tender garage to free up space at the aft.

With available space at the aft, it’s reasonable to assume there will be a dedicated beach club which is accessed via the retractable door captured in the latest images of her hitting the water.

Sure to be aligned with the latest ‘must-have facilities’, it’s also known that she comes with a luxurious spa accommodating a sauna, hammam, jacuzzi pool and full depth plunge pool on the lower aft deck.

Though no images have been published of her interior, Lurssen have described the interior as being finished in a ‘traditional fresh style’.

It is also confirmed that ARETI has been built to Passenger Yacht Code (PYC) class, allowing her to sleep over 12 guests whilst cruising the world’s waters.

Along with a large master suite, ARETI features 8 additional guest cabins to accommodate up to 18.

Whilst she isn’t expected to become available for charter, be sure to check out all the Lurssen superyachts which are available for charter.

The launch of ARETI also signals a particularly successful week for the iconic German shipyard as they launched the 120m+ superyacht ‘Project Thunder’ less than a week ago. To see more, watch the video of the launch here.

http://blog.yachtcharterfleet.com/post/superyacht-areti-launched-by-lurssen-7393.htm

Superyacht DILBAR Named ‘Motor Yacht Of The Year’ At World Superyacht Awards 2017

Winning one of the most prestigious accolades of all time, the 156m/512ft motor yacht DILBAR was named the ‘Motor Yacht Of The Year’ at the World Superyacht Awards this weekend.Superyacht DILBAR Named ‘Motor Yacht Of The Year’ At World Superyacht Awards 2017

Winning one of the most prestigious accolades of all time, the 156m/512ft motor yacht DILBAR was named the ‘Motor Yacht Of The Year’ at the World Superyacht Awards this weekend.

Currently the world’s largest superyacht in terms of gross tonnage, as well as one of the most technically impressive vessels ever built by Lurssen, it was to warm applause that DILBAR was announced this year’s ‘Motor Yacht of the Year’.

Particularly impressed by both her design and finish, the panel of judges tasked with handing out the award commented on the unusual use of materials around the interior and the overall quality of her construction.

Whilst DILBAR has remained highly private since her delivery in 2016, it has been confirmed that she boasts the largest interior swimming pool ever built on board a motor yacht.


As the most voluminous superyacht currently on the water, it is understood that DILBAR as a truly superb interior which combines remarkable communal and guest spaces.

What is known from photographs of the superyacht is that she possess two helipads and a generously proportioned swim platform which extends off the aft.

Combining outstanding size with awe-inspiring style, DILBAR is unquestionably deserving of the title of ‘Motor Yacht Of The Year’

It should be pointed out, however, that the 182m/596ft motor yacht REV will take on the enviable position of being the world’s largest superyacht in terms of both length overall (LOA) and gross tonnage (GT) when she is delivered from the Vard shipyard in 2020.

Open for charter, the expedition yacht is equipped with all of the necessary features to conduct scientific research as well as all the comforts required for a memorable private yacht charter vacation.


In order to find out more regarding the success of charter yachts at this year’s awards, be sure to read our article on how Charter Yachts Win At World Superyacht Awards 2017.

http://blog.yachtcharterfleet.com/post/superyacht-dilbar-named-lmotor-yacht-of-the-yearr-at-world-superyacht-awards-2017-7524.htm

Cantiere delle Marche delivers 31m M/Y ‘Galego’

Italian shipyard Cantiere delle Marche (CdM) has announced 31m motoryacht Galego has fulfilled its build contract and been delivered to its new owners in Greece. With four superyachts scheduled for delivery this year, 2017 is set to be the most active year in the shipyards history.

Much like other yachts built by CdM, Galego is constructed out of steel and aluminium, and is the third vessel of the Darwin Line 102 explorer-yacht series designed and engineered by Italian design studio Hydro Tec. In response to the delivery of Galego, the shipyard has reported of its “dominant position, representing approximately 60 per cent of the 24-33m steel and aluminium explorer-yacht market.”

Since CdM entered the superyacht market in 2015, it has successfully delivered four superyachts including, Acala, Babbo, Storm and Galego. Furthermore, the Italian shipyard’s order book is also looking positive, with eight yachts under construction, one of which (Narvalo), has been launched.

Despite not appearing in the Top 40 Shipyard Rankings in The Superyacht Annual Report 2017: New Build, due to the shipyard’s infancy in the market, the facility’s gradual improvement and planned consistency in the order book, should mean that CdM is likely to appear among the top 40 shipyards in a couple of years’ time.

With a gross tonnage of 244, Galego has been “specifically designed and re-proportioned in height, exceeding the standards of all the Darwin Class explorer yachts,” according to the shipyard. On board Galego, the interior height allowances were increased to 2.18m, which led to the repositioning of all doors and windows.

In the sub 500 gt sector, in which CdM is apart o, represents a vast majority of the new build market. So much that in the last 10 years, 75.3 per cent of all motoryacht deliveries has been below 500gt.

The yacht’s interior design, which was developed by Italian design management studio Pierluigi Floris, has been described by the shipyard as “warm and welcoming”, with plenty of walnut tones and leather covered walls.

For this project, the brief was to create a classically-styled vessel with a number of modern touches.
Galego is now on her maiden voyage to Greece, followed by Turkey, where the owner will remain on board until the end of the summer season.

http://superyachtintelligence.com/fleetnews/?newsid=27390

Numarine launches first explorer superyacht

Straddling the Bosphorus strait between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea is the transcontinental city of Istanbul, and a superyacht builder marking its entry into the explorer-yacht segment.

Launching hull 1 of its explorer range, Numarine’s 32XP is the product of a go-anywhere ethos and ability to lay anchor in some of the worlds most confined destinations.

Twin CAT engines thrust the 32.5m displacement explorer to a gentle 12-knot cruising speed or to a Vmax of 14 knots. A fuel consumption of around 8.5 litres per nautical mile at nine knots ensures the steel hulled explorer can negotiate some of the world’s demanding seas for 3,000 nautical miles.

Internal and external details penned by Can Yalman, in conjunction with Naval Architect Umberto Tagliavini, have delivered considerable volumes of space across all decks.

Below deck, 85sqm of living space is segmented among two mid-ship VIP cabins and two double en-suite cabins. Forward of the same deck are crew quarters for five. Ascend to the main deck, an expansive 48sqm salon leads to a starboard gym, mid-ship lobby and on to the full beam master cabin, three quarters the size of the salon.

On the upper deck, a sizeable owner’s cabin with circa 40sqm of living space opens up via sliding doors onto the expansive 129sqm external space of the upper deck. With the help of a 2.5 tonne crane, the aft upper deck can harbour a 9m RIB and twin jet skis.

Atop the quad-deck superyacht, the 60sqm flybridge is characterised as an entertainment space, featuring a 12-person dining table, integrated bar and secondary helm.

Sold in June 2016 to her experienced owner, the launch of the 32XP marks Numarine’s adventure into explorer superyachts.

http://superyachtintelligence.com/fleetnews/?newsid=27391

Depth added to 60m+ Feadship re-sale market

As one of superyachting’s most sought-after brands, the re-sale market for Feadships tends to be one of the livelier subdivisions, with buyers, sellers, and their representatives, acutely aware of the deals obtainable.
Following the successful 2016 sales of 60.7m Meduse (May), 61.9m Positive Carry (June) and 60.6m Kingdom Come (September), demand has been seemingly outstripping supply, despite there being 47 60m+ Feadships on the water.

From September 2016 to March 2017, it appeared that Faith, the 96.6m build delivered in 2017, was the only 60m+ Feadship publicly for sale. And while priced on application, an educated guess would place her pricing level at around the €200 million mark, which realistically pitches her at a buying demographic of no more than 2,000 people worldwide.

While there may be numerous sales listings behind closed doors and not for public consumption, there are three new central agency listings for buyers to feast their eyes on.

In March, the impressive 60.4m Rock.It was listed for sale with Northrop & Johnson and Burgess at €70 million. Building yachts has become one of her US owner’s biggest thrills – he loves Feadship, and in a previous interview with The Superyacht Report, his advice to other owners was to ‘add 10m in length, and 2m in beam, onto your original concept’. All signs indicate he may be building anew at the yard, but that is purely guesswork at this stage.

Lady Christine came onto the market with Y.CO in mid-June, at $62 million. The 2010 build isn’t an archetypal Feadship in appearance. The enormous, protracted sun deck has quite an interesting layout of functions – a flybridge, an enclosed dining area and a certified helipad aft – which you might typically see elsewhere on other boats. The Art Deco interior design is by Rodney Black and would perhaps identify the older generation as a prime market for this boat.

At the more conservative end of the pricing spectrum is 60m Le Pharaon, which was listed for sale at €14 million with Edmiston in May. This boat again has an unusual layout of functions and an interior that might prove to be an acquired taste. In 2016, Laura Pompani managed a soft furniture, carpets and upholstery refit, however she has not had any major refit work for 14 years.

On a positive note, she is 10 years younger than the comparably sized Kingdom Come, which sold for fractionally more in September last year, so she seems sensibly priced.

81m project at Royal Huisman gets under way

With the design and engineering phase complete within a year of its unveiling  by Royal Huisman, Dykstra Naval Architects (DNA), designer Mark Whiteley and Bart Kimman of Northrop & Johnson Asia at the 2016 Monaco Yacht Show, the keel has been laid and construction started in Vollehove on the new project for an Asian client.

Apart from her sheer size, the yacht will have a number of innovative features, including the newly developed sliding Rondal door with individually operated glass panels for a seamless transition between the cockpit and the interior.

The superstructure features a half-raised bridge for protected helming and full controls for sailing, along with access to the hydraulically operated crow’s nest. The sheltered main cockpit beneath the flybridge features a bar, sofas and a large table for alfresco dining at anchor.

DNA has focused on creating a hull with a distinguishing hard chine and schooner rig that combines good performance with sea kindliness, stability and comfort. The Panamax carbon rig by Rondal will be supported by carbon standing rigging. Towing and wind tunnel tests, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) calculations, and a Velocity Prediction Program have all been undertaken to evaluate the sail balance, keel position and rudder angles when under sail.

“The plumb bow, very long waterline, sleek hull and large sail area will give the yacht the required high speed and good performance,” says Thys Nikkels of DNA. Mark Whiteley has developed a modern interior in balance with the exterior living spaces based on Alpi walnut bulkheads and oak floors (Alpi is a composite wood material that provides optimal performance and eco-sustainable quality).

The forward part of the superstructure has been reserved for the owner and his guests with a combined saloon with comfortable seating and a large table with sixteen seats for formal dining. In addition, the interior has been deisgned to also serve as a platform for business meetings.

Various tenders and toys such as water scooters, a large guest tender equipped with dive gear, kayaks and SUP boards will be stored under the aft deck, while the crew tender will be housed in a recessed bay forward that can also be used as a cockpit when the tender id deployed.

The design optimisation process is ongoing and more aluminium for the sub-assembly construction is being delivered to the Royal Huisman yard on a daily basis. With the yacht due to be completed by 2020, a model of the schooner will be on display at the Royal Huisman stand (QE14) during the 2017 Monaco Yacht Show.

http://superyachtintelligence.com/fleetnews/?newsid=27417

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company to Launch Yacht Collection in 2019

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, part of Marriott International, has announced its entry into luxury yachting and cruises with finance partner Oaktree Capital. Named The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, the venture represents a rare foray into the cruise and yachting industries for a luxury hotel operator. The first of three luxury cruising yachts in this series is scheduled to be launched in the fourth quarter of 2019.

Following the announcement, Herve Humler, president and chief operating officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, described the new project as a “unique combination of yachting and cruising”, adding that it will usher in a new way of luxury travel for guests seeking to discover the world in a relaxed, elegant and comfortable atmosphere with the highest level of personalised service.

For the superyacht industry, Ritz-Carlton’s move could signal a new opportunity to introduce UHNWIs to luxury travel on the water.Douglas Prothero, managing director of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection tells SuperyachtNews that the overall experience will be positioned closer to that offered by the superyacht market than the cruise market.

“Each yacht will feature 149 suites, all of which come with a private balcony, and we will also offer several innovative duplex suites,” Prothero says. “Like superyachts, our vessels will have a [beach-club] platform that will offer direct access to the water.”

Prothero also expects complete buyouts or private charters to be a popular option, given that the size of the vessels makes them an ideal setup for groups and meetings. “In fact, the yachts have been designed with an innovative wall system in place so that room layouts can be modified to suit the purpose of each voyage,” he adds. “We also believe this will be an exciting new option for those who are between yachts or who have left private ownership.”

The on-board experience will reflect the level of comfort and guest service for which the Ritz-Carlton brand is associated – something that Prothero believes is unmatched in the ultra-luxury cruise and private yachting sectors. The first ship will also feature an a la carte restaurant from Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg and a Panorama Lounge and wine bar offering a wide variety of exclusive entertainment.

Prothero adds that the predicted success of the venture is based on concrete research. “We saw a very real opportunity within the luxury cruise market, which is expected to continue to grow, especially among a rapidly increasing population of high net worth individuals,’ he explains. “Additionally, in the past year alone,

405,000 Ritz-Carlton guests told us that they had taken a cruise, which provides a huge opportunity within the current clientele. Also, based on our current market penetration trends, we anticipate the number of global cruise passengers to grow by four per cent annually through to 2020.”
Itineraries are being developed with an intent to combine the lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton’s resorts and the casual freedom of a yachting vacation. The team is currently working with some seasoned cruise professionals to create the itineraries, ranging from seven to 10 days.

While the exact routes are still being established, Prothero anticipates that the first yacht will cruise in a variety of destinations such as the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as within the New England area. The second ship will follow similar routes, but the plan is to offer summer voyages to the St. Lawrence and Great Lakes area. He anticipates the third vessel to focus on destinations in Asia Pacific.

The specifically designed small-capacity vessel will be built at Barreras Shipyard in Vigo, Spain, 190m in length and able to accommodate up to 298 passengers. The vessel will also feature two duplex penthouse suites, with interior finishes jointly designed by The Ritz-Carlton and cruise ship design firm Tillberg Design of Sweden.

Pricing is still to be determined, however, Prothero notes that Ritz-Carlton is focused on developing the finest cruise-yacht experience imaginable, which will be targeted at one per cent of global travellers. The potential for crossover into the superyacht market is undeniable as this type of cruise would arguably act as a possible stepping stone into yacht charter or ownership. The industry should look to how it can benefit from the marketing experience and know-how that a brand such as Ritz-Carlton can utilise to get UHNWIs experiencing luxury on the water.

http://www.superyachtnews.com/owner/ritz-carlton-to-offer-yacht-collection

Damen launches 55m yacht support vessel new frontiers

Damen Shipyards has announced the launch of 'New Frontiers', two months after the delivery of 'Game Changer'.Just over two months after the delivery of 69.1m Game Changer, Damen, the Dutch shipbuilder, has announced the launch of their latest vessel, M/Y New Frontiers. At 55m, the new launch differs from the shipyard’s conventional Yacht Support range, with dedicated owner and guest accommodation.

Damen’s Yacht Support activity dates back to 2009, with the delivery of 51.3m Pursuit, at which point the yacht support market was a relatively unexplored sector of the yachting market at large. Since 2009 Damen has delivered 11 support vessels, gaining recognition as the world’s most prolific builders of support vessels and also making it into the Top 40 shipyard rankings in The Superyacht Annual Report: New Build.

“New Frontiers, is ripping up the rule book,” says commercial director Rose Damen. “It’s still a Yacht Support vessel, but you can’t put this vessel into one category or another – and that reflects exactly the wishes of our clients. They want their holiday to be about freedom and spontaneity – New Frontiers makes that possible. Whether it’s a weekend dive adventure trip away from their superyacht or enjoying two locations at once linked by a helicopter, it’s all about unforgettable experiences.”

With an open deck area of 240sqm, the 55m support vessel has a huge amount of storage capacity for tenders and toys and can carry up to 20 crew and guests. Much like other yachts in the Yacht Support range, New Frontiers has Damen’s patented Axe design, which according to Damen, results in up to 15 per cent less resistance and better seakeeping in large waves.

But, while these tried and tested attributes are included, there are a number of completely new features that set this vessel apart from the rest of the fleet. This includes an owner’s suite on the main deck, enhanced AV and navigation systems and a 30m lounge and dining area.

“A yacht support vessel offers superyacht owners more luxury yachting fun than ever, but at a much lower total cost of ownership than acquiring more capability with a larger yacht,” says product director, Mark Vermeulen. “Plus, they get all the benefits of flexible operations, straightforward maintenance and privacy,” explains Vermeulen.

New Frontiers is currently scheduled for delivery in September, and will make her debut at the 2017 edition of the Monaco Yacht Show.

http://www.superyachtnews.com/fleet/damen-launches-55m-new-frontiers