Few events have ever affected yachting as much as the sinking of the 60 meter Yogi. The largest yacht to ever sink, its wreck strongly hit the Turkish shipbuilding sector and made owners take a hard look at their insurances and dangers, even though no one was hurt. Despite the accident, Yogi was no less of an exceptional yacht.
Yogi was the largest yacht ever built by up and coming Turkish shipyard, Proteksan Turquoise at the time of her delivery in 2011. Reminiscent of an explorer style yacht through her design by Jean Guy Verges, Yogi featured oversized portholes in her hull that brought in tons of flight into the yacht's cabins.
Built for Stephane Courbit, a French media and TV millionaire valued at €450 million, Yogi was built to be operated as a charter yacht part of its hotel collection. Maximizing space, the yacht had many amenities for her size including a swimming pool, beach club, wellness center and media room.
Yet, on February 17th 2012, just as the yacht was days out of leaving the yard where it was undergoing warrantied maintenance work, it sank in the Aegean sea. The weather was particularly difficult during that day and yet it seems to be an engine failure that, tied to a number of circumstantial events, led to the 60-meter yacht sinking to the bottom of the Mediterranean.
The report did, however, clear Proteksan in the quality of its build, focusing on what was a mixture of human oversight and extreme conditions. A Turkish investigations arrived at similar conclusions. Manned by a skeleton crew of 8 during this voyage, it took an hour to evacuate by helicopter the yacht's crew as seas at their peek featured waves of up to 7 meters.
Virtually new, the sinking of the 60-meter Yogi send shockwaves throughout the yachting space. In addition to engine issues that were believed to have triggered the chain of events that led to Yogi sinking, misuse of watertight doors may have been an issue according to the report. A fact worth noting is that the yacht took over five hours to sink into the Aegean Sea.
The largest yacht to have ever cruised with the French flag, Yogi was part of Courbit's Lov Collection, a holding company that includes the Les Airelles palace in Courchevel as well as the Pan Dei hotel in St Tropez. Built with charter in mind to its existing and new clientele, the yacht commanded prices of up to €378,000 per week and featured 800 square meter of interior space in a particularly luxurious interior.
A key element in Yogi's design was her large pool with overflow that sat aft of the yacht's main deck, directly on top of its beach club. In the middle of the pool was a glass porthole that flooded the area underneath with light. All around the pool were lounging pads for Yogi's guest to take in the sun when the yacht was anchored off in a bay.
To complement the swimming pool aft of the main deck, a Jacuzzi was also placed aft of the sundeck, for guests that wanted to enjoy the sun in a hot tub. Also surrounded by sunpads, these feature a common beige design throughout the yacht with colored pillows. Same can be said for the customizable lounging area aft of the upper deck.
On the inside, Yogi was reminiscent of Courbit's luxurious hotels. Featuring a beige and creme tone throughout the yacht, the 60-meter was fitted with floor to ceiling windows that visually increased the size of its 800 square meters of interior space. Its main salon was structured into a lounging area and a TV sector with a wide screen built into the wall.
Stretching across the full beam of the yacht, Yogi's master bedroom was no less spectacular with both lots of light and space. A king sized bed throned in the middle of the suite with access through a central corridor to a dressing room and his and hers bathrooms.
The yacht's guest accommodation didn't also pale in comparison with the owner's stateroom. Finished in the same style, the double and twin guest cabins could be connected or separated through double sliding doors. In total, Yogi could accommodate a total of 12 guests across 6 cabins.
Tall windows could be found throughout the yacht and were a real differentiating factor from competition on the market for Yogi. 'The idea was to have a yacht that could be chartered and run just like a resort.' detailed its designer, Jean Guy Verges in a later interview. 'She has been designed to the specific request of her owner. I think this jewel offered more than you would expect of a yacht her size.'
Another interesting amenity of Yogi was her observational lounge up on the sun deck. Finished throughout in glass, the area boasted a 180 degree view into the yacht's surroundings through a climate controlled environment. Equipped with custom furniture from the likes of Hermes, this media lounge separated the sun deck into a Jacuzzi and a raised dinning area.
Down on the upper deck, which also featured a covered dinning room, guests would find an extensive lounging pad with tiles that could be raised or flattened to create lounging chairs or sun beds. Connected to iPods and iPhones, which in 2011 was still rare, Yogi featured an advanced system for her time with TVs that slid out even in front of lounging pads.
Viewed by many as a step forward for the Turkish yacht building sector and as an endorsement of their quality, when Yogi sank, the whole country took a hit. By 2011, yacht owners and charters had started outgrowing the stigma of building in Turkey and the market was picking up for local builders. In fact Yogi was the largest yacht ever built by Proteksan.
Yogi's delivery was followed weeks after by their newest flagship, a 70.5-meter reminiscent of a Dutch-build quality, Talisman C. Shortly after it followed the 72-meter Vicky and it looked like Turkey would emerge as a yacht building destination. This all ended when Yogi sank in February 2012 and owners' stigma towards Turkey developed once again.
Although some Turkish shipyards continued to prosper, many faded down their ambitions in a global recession. This ultimately culminated with the acquisition of Proteksan Turquoise by Dutch-based Oceanco. Backed by billionaire investor Mohammed Al Barwani, the Dutch superyacht builder since set out on a mission to make the yard competitive and got an order for a 77-meter yacht now under build.
Having initially started his career in television in the 1990s, Stephane Courbit where he built a reputation, eventually starting his own production company behind hits such as Miss France. Eventually acquired by Dutch holding Endemol, Courbit exited from the company in 2001.
His LOV Group currently includes companies in the audiovisual space with several production companies behind some of France's most popular game shows. Other investments include several betting sites, which he started in acquiring in 2007. One of his fastest growing divisions has now becomes the Airelles collection of hotels.
After investing nearly $200 million into the purchase and renovation of the five star Courchevel palace, Les Airelles, Courbit acquired the Pan Dei Palace in St Tropez. His hotel portfolio then grew with the Bastide de Gordes in 2014. Two more Airelles hotels are set to open in the next two years, one in Versailles and one in Val d'Isiere.
Camper & Nicholsons has announced the exclusive listing of the Benetti yacht New Waves for sale. Represented by sales advisor Maël Fiolet, this 42.00m is a Benetti Fast 140 yacht, delivered in 2015 and maintained in pristine condition by a private family. Designed by Stefano Righini, the yacht features a tri-deck configuration, blending quality construction with Italian design.The exterior offers ample space for various activities. The sundeck includes areas for dining, lounging, and a bar. At the aft, a beach club with a large swim platform provides easy water access. Additional exterior spaces include the main deck aft and a forward deck with sunbeds and a hot tub.Inside, the yacht features a bright and elegant interior designed by RWD, with enhancements by Wolterinck in 2017. The layout accommodates 10 guests in five cabins, including a full-beam owner’s cabin on the main deck with a private study and dressing area. The lower deck houses two spacious VIP cabins and two double cabins. The main saloon and upper deck sky lounge offer additional socializing spaces, with the main saloon accommodating dining for up to 10 guests.New Waves underwent a full repaint in 2024 following an extensive refit and has been regularly maintained and upgraded. The yacht complies with MCA LY3 commercial standards and is offered for sale with full EU VAT paid.Currently available for viewings by appointment in Palma, Spain, New Waves asking price EUR 16,500,000, with VAT paid.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
May 31, 2024
Ferretti Group and Flexjet have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at combined growth in the luxury segment. The agreement was announced at the Venice Boat Show, where Ferretti Group showcased a fleet of 10 models, including the world premieres of the Custom Line Navetta 38 and Pershing GTX 80.The partnership connects the expertise of Ferretti Group in luxury yacht building with Flexjet's leadership in private aviation. This collaboration targets Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWIs), offering them exclusive benefits and unique events. Both companies share a commitment to excellence in performance, design, and service.Under this agreement, Ferretti Group clients will have access to Flexjet's global fleet of over 300 private jets and helicopters. This includes the Gulfstream G650, Praetor 600, and Sikorsky S-76 in Europe. Clients will also enjoy access to Flexjet’s private terminals in key locations such as Teterboro, New York; Naples, Florida; and Van Nuys, California.Conversely, Flexjet clients will gain VIP access to global boat shows, private tours of Ferretti Group’s Riva shipyard, and preferential terms on Riva Brand Experience products and accessories. The partnership also promises shared presence at international boat shows and high-profile events, including Ferretti Group’s Private Preview in Monaco and Flexjet’s VIP viewing experience at the Palio di Siena.The collaboration will also see the creation of a Riva-inspired interior for one of Flexjet’s Gulfstream G650 aircraft, reflecting Flexjet’s bespoke LXi Cabin Collection interiors.Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group, remarked, "People who love cruising on Ferretti Group yachts expect standards of absolute excellence when they fly too, which is why I’m so pleased to associate our name with Flexjet, a partner that shares our same passion and desire to offer customers an increasingly rewarding experience. Venice is the ideal showcase to celebrate this important agreement."Kenn Ricci, Chairman of Flexjet, added, "This exciting partnership takes the decades-long expertise and luxury brand power from leaders in two complementary sectors, and combines them to present today’s UHNWI audience with a set of exclusive and unique advantages. I have been a huge admirer of Ferretti Group’s philosophy for many years, and we share a deep understanding of what it takes to deliver a truly exceptional luxury experience. I’m excited to see how this significant strategic alliance can lift our offerings to even greater heights of excellence."The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credit: Ferretti Group
May 31, 2024
The 70-meter superyacht, Project Thunderball, is now under construction, showcasing a collaboration between three industry leaders: Dutch design studio Vripack, Italian shipyard CRN, and Nauta Design. This custom yacht is designed for efficient and comfortable cruising, with features tailored for long voyages and regatta support.Vripack is responsible for the yacht's elegant exterior and naval architecture. The design includes an optimized hull, elongated bow, and a refined profile with classic elements. The yacht also features a peak shaving system to enhance energy efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. Nauta Design's interiors draw inspiration from the sea, incorporating geometric shapes that complement the exterior.Project Thunderball will be a steel and aluminum yacht with five decks, an 11-meter beam, and accommodation for 12 guests and 15 crew members. The yacht's design includes sharp entry lines and curved bilges, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency.Marnix Hoekstra, co-creative director of Vripack, commented, “Our focus was on delivering a yacht that guarantees highly economical cruising and a soft and comfortable ride, all of which is made possible by our most efficient hull lines to date and our sailing experience.”The yacht was sold by Y.CO in August 2022, with construction beginning in early 2023. Initial designs were developed as early as 2018. In May 2023, the yacht was transported to the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona, where a full hull 3D scan was performed. The build has now moved into the outfitting stage, which includes carpentry, machinery fitting, and installation of on-board systems and furniture. The exterior hull will also be primed and painted.Project Thunderball is scheduled for delivery in 2026. The yacht will serve not only as a luxury vessel for extended cruises but also as a support vessel for the owner's sailing yacht during regattas.Vripack is a yacht-design studio with a portfolio that represents over 7400 designs, made strong through its extensive naval architecture and engineering experience. From the moment they opened their doors in 1961, Vripack studio’s approach to design has been governed by the playful interaction between form and function.Credits: Vripack
May 31, 2024
IYC has announced a new partnership with Sunreef Yachts, appointing IYC as the Exclusive Commercial Agent for Sunreef Yachts in the United Kingdom. This strategic alliance aims to enhance IYC's offerings in the luxury yachting market and reinforce its commitment to providing exceptional yachting experiences.Raphael Sauleau, CEO of IYC, remarked, "This appointment marks a new chapter for our team in the United Kingdom. Sunreef Yachts is renowned for its superior craftsmanship and commitment to sustainability, and this partnership enhances our portfolio with some of the most forward-thinking and environmentally conscious yachts available today. We look forward to working with the Sunreef Yachts team of professionals."Francis Lapp, CEO and Founder of Sunreef Yachts, stated, "We are thrilled to announce our new exclusive dealership with IYC for the UK market. As we continue to strengthen our presence, it is crucial to have strong and experienced representation in such a significant market. IYC's expertise and dedication align perfectly with our vision for delivering unparalleled luxury and innovation to our discerning clients in the UK."Richard Gray, Head of Sales for IYC in the UK, added, "Our partnership with Sunreef Yachts marks another milestone for IYC's UK operations. Collaborating with one of the world’s foremost shipyards is not just an opportunity; it's a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality. This partnership opens up exciting new possibilities, and we look forward to supporting brokers and cultivating a growing client base of Sunreef Yachts enthusiasts in the UK."The partnership between IYC and Sunreef Yachts represents a significant development in the luxury yachting industry, combining IYC's market expertise with Sunreef's innovative and sustainable yacht designs.Sunreef Yachts was founded by Francis Lapp in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland. Since then, the shipyard has been designing and manufacturing luxury sailing and power multihulls. Credits: Sunreef Yachts
May 31, 2024
VisionF Yachts has announced the development of a new 30.7-meter supercatamaran, currently under construction at their Yalova shipyard. The hulls of this all-aluminium superyacht have already been completed and turned, with the superstructure also finished. The yacht features a GRP (Glass Fibre Reinforced Polyester) roof, a first for VisionF, aimed at reducing the vessel’s weight and enhancing speed.Named VisionF 101 Alu, the supercatamaran boasts nearly 400 square meters of living space, including a 30 square meter owner’s suite and a 140 square meter flybridge. Designed for both performance and comfort, the yacht is equipped with four Volvo Penta IPA1350 engines, producing a combined 4,000 horsepower. This setup allows the yacht to reach speeds over 20 knots, while its broad beam ensures stability and safety.The yacht is tailored for Mediterranean cruising, suitable for long crossings and coastal hops between harbors and anchorages. It includes expansive outdoor living spaces, such as a large cockpit, foredeck lounge, and a hydraulic bathing platform for water activities. The flybridge, covered by an elegant hardtop, offers various configurations for lounging, dining, and a whirlpool spa.Interior details are yet to be fully revealed, but the yacht will accommodate up to 12 guests. The designs for the first unit feature a modern style with neutral tones, emphasizing spaciousness and comfort. The VisionF 101 Alu is scheduled for launch in 2025.VisionF Yachts in Turkey was set up by Coşkun Bayraktar in Istanbul in 2019, but despite the shipyard’s relative youth it is a brand that is going places in the power catamaran world. In November 2020, VisionF Yachts debuted its first vessel, the VisionF 80. Credits: VisionF Yachts
May 30, 2024