Brokerage news

The 43-meter Project Triple X, designed by Vripack, has officially commenced its construction phase with the laying of the keel at Alia Yachts in Turkey. This innovative vessel showcases the full spectrum of Vripack’s design expertise and continues the studio’s distinguished legacy in crafting high-performance explorer yachts.The American owners, seasoned yacht enthusiasts, have transitioned from their previous production boats to embark on their inaugural fully custom yacht project. Reflecting their adventurous spirit, Project Triple X marks their entry into the explorer category, denoted by the ‘X’ in the name.“The clients aspire to explore the globe without restrictions and needed a yacht that would fulfill that vision without limitations,” explains Marnix Hoekstra, co-creative director at Vripack. “They requested a sleek, sporty explorer, and I believe Project Triple X embodies that ideal; it’s equipped to navigate ice, versatile in warm climates, and exceptionally comfortable at sea.”Vripack was recommended to the clients by Rupert Connor, founder and president of Luxury Yacht Group, who recognized a strong alignment between the studio’s holistic design philosophy and the owners' ambitions. “I connected them with Vripack as the optimal design studio to realize their vision,” notes Connor. “Vripack's extensive background, especially with long-range discovery yachts, and their collaborative design approach stood out.”Vripack’s comprehensive design strategy became evident early in the process. To maximize interior space, the team opted for a preliminary design based on a 40-meter platform before extending it to 43 meters to accommodate the owners' specifications. “Identifying design constraints is crucial,” says Hoekstra. “By starting with a shorter platform and adjusting accordingly, we ensure the best utilization of the yacht’s interior volume.”Significant features include the owners’ requests for a spacious walk-in closet and large bathroom, which necessitated additional space beyond the original 40-meter model. Enhancements for the engine room and increased storage for toys and technical gear further justified the yacht's expansion.A standout requirement for the owners was the capacity to carry an 8-meter beachlander tender from X-Craft. “Many yachts under 500GT need to tow chase boats due to insufficient tender space,” explains Connor. “Marnix proposed an innovative carriage solution that transforms the deck into a fabulous outdoor dining space once the tender is launched.”Positioned on the "hip" of the main deck, the tender’s design allows for an unhindered aft deck and bow area. When in the water, the open bulwarks create a veranda, seamlessly connecting the dining area and gym with the ocean.The owner’s apartment is thoughtfully located on the bridge deck aft, featuring a full-beam master suite, a private office—an essential detail for the owner—and an exclusive deck area. Additionally, the lower deck hosts four guest suites, ample outdoor storage, and spacious crew accommodations for up to ten.Key exterior highlights include an elongated bow and an aft-leaning superstructure that imparts a sense of speed, even while at anchor. The sun deck is designed as a relaxation oasis, complete with a hot tub, seating area, bar, and grill.“Our vision was to shift away from the aggressive lines typical of masculine designs and embrace a more casual explorer aesthetic, characterized by smooth, flowing lines and an element of flair,” remarks Hoekstra. “Project Triple X features elegant curves that conclude with a distinctive edge.”After a year of meticulous design development, Project Triple X entered its construction phase in July, marked by the momentous first cut of steel.“The design has remained largely faithful to the initial sketches, a testament to the clarity of the owners’ vision and Rupert’s effective guidance during the early phases,” shares Hoekstra.“Communication has been key, and Marnix has expertly delivered on the clients’ expectations,” adds Connor. “While some designers may get lost in theory, Marnix excels at transforming conceptual ideas into tangible plans.”Alia Yachts was founded in 2008 by Gokhan Çelik and Omer Koray. Located in the port of Antalya on the beautiful Turkish Riviera, Alia Yachts shipyard currently occupies approximately 8,000 m2, including three construction halls with their suites of specialist workshops and a dedicated interiors facility. With an additional 16,000 sq. m under development for 2019, Alia Yachts will rank among the top facilities in the region.Credits: Alia Yachts

Northrop & Johnson has announced the availability of Ava Kando110/3, Hull 3 by Ava Yachts, now on the market for EUR15,450,000 through Yacht Broker Deniz Kaymaz. This exquisite 34-meter long-range explorer yacht is currently under construction and is set to be delivered within 12 months.Designed for the discerning adventurer, Ava Kando110/3 combines luxury and performance, making it an exclusive listing worldwide, except in the Americas. The yacht's steel hull has been expertly joined with its aluminum superstructure, and significant construction progress is underway. Potential buyers have the unique opportunity to customize the interior design to their personal taste during the ongoing customization process.With a remarkable 320 GRT, Ava Kando110/3 is built for extended voyages, offering an impressive range of up to 6,500 nautical miles – ideal for exploring remote and untouched destinations. The yacht features sleek, modern exterior lines that lend it a contemporary aesthetic, while the generous interior and exterior spaces ensure unparalleled comfort and versatility for guests. With a beam of 7.8 meters, it boasts a spacious and luxurious environment throughout. Notably, the flybridge is a standout feature, complete with a fully equipped bar, a hot tub with glass-panel windows, and stunning panoramic views, making it perfect for hosting and relaxation at sea.Accommodating up to 12 guests, Ava Kando110/3 includes beautifully appointed cabins, featuring a lavish master suite and guest cabins—each with ensuite facilities for added privacy and convenience. With a dedicated crew of up to seven, the yacht promises impeccable service and seamless operations during every journey.Equipped with Side-Power stabilizers, Ava Kando110/3 ensures comfort during cruising and at anchor, providing a smooth and enjoyable experience on the water. Its high-performance Volvo-Penta D16MH engines, along with hydraulic bow and stern thrusters, facilitate effortless maneuvering while maintaining fuel efficiency and power for long-range expeditions.Ava Kando110/3 represents an extraordinary balance of adventure and personalized design, making it the perfect choice for those in search of a stylish, high-performance yacht ready to explore the world's most captivating and remote destinations.AvA Yachts was established in 2005 as a naval architecture and engineering company by a group of naval architects who have experience of more than 25 years in the yacht design and engineering field. Ava Yachts has developed and engineered the designs of many remarkable yachts in a wide variety. Today AvA Yachts, with more than 5000 sqm closed yard based in Antalya.Credits: AvA Yachts

FARO Alternative Investments, through its Real Economy sub-fund and in collaboration with advisory firm Orienta Capital Partners, has finalized the acquisition of Sunseeker International (Holdings) Ltd., a prestigious British shipyard celebrated for its production of high-performance luxury motor yachts. The acquisition marks the transfer of ownership from the Chinese industrial giant Dalian Wanda Group.94 Yacht The acquisition of 100% of Sunseeker is a significant milestone for FARO Alternative Investments, an innovative platform focused on creating value through a unique ecosystem of expertise and networking for investors and stakeholders. The transaction was supported by Miami-based investment firm Lionheart Capital alongside a club deal orchestrated by Orienta Capital Partners.Located in Poole, Dorset, Sunseeker has over five decades of experience in crafting top-tier yachts and is widely recognized as a pioneer in the luxury yachting industry. The shipyard generated approximately £320 million in sales in FY 2023, primarily from yachts measuring between 15 and 50 meters. Sunseeker currently boasts an order book valued at around £540 million (€640 million) and is set to expand its offerings by focusing on the development of high-end superyachts.Predator55Giancarlo Galeone, Chairman of FARO Value and lead advisor for FARO Alternative Investments SCSp SICAV RAIF, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “We are thrilled to embark on this new chapter alongside Sunseeker. Our established expertise in the nautical sector, paired with our longstanding relationship with the CEO, will further enhance the shipyard’s identity and craftsmanship, steering the brand towards our ambitious growth objectives. Sunseeker will maintain its British identity, continuing operations from its headquarters in Poole, where its production, workforce, and infrastructure are based.”Predator55Andrea Frabetti, CEO of Sunseeker, expressed confidence in the new ownership structure, stating, “We are confident that through this new ownership structure, Sunseeker will be able to grow and reach new milestones. Our goal will remain to build exceptional yachts that embody luxury, performance, and innovation, while honoring the legacy and vision of our founders.”FARO Alternative Investments SICAV RAIF (“FARO”) is an alternative investment fund operating through a globally active scalable platform with diversified strategies, mainly in Private Equity and Venture Capital. Orienta Capital Partners is an investment firm based in Milan, Forlì and Reggio Emilia, specializing in cross-industry transaction as lead investors, focusing on high-growth potential SMEs.Credits: Sunseeker

Latitude Yachts has officially started the build of its groundbreaking 26.3-meter model, the Laniakea, touted as the world's first sports catamaran. This vessel features an eye-catching, geometric silhouette and is constructed from lightweight carbon, resulting in enhanced fuel efficiency and expanded living space.The innovative design is the work of Dixon Yachts, which has expertly crafted a naval architecture that includes four outboard waterjet engines. These engines enable the Laniakea to house six guest cabins along with two crew cabins. The interior, designed by Chulhun Park, known for his work on the impressive 49.5-metre superyacht Khalilah, showcases a stylish and minimalist monochrome aesthetic.Incorporating advanced solar panels into the superstructure, Laniakea is equipped with the latest smart technologies for navigation, entertainment, and climate control. Latitude Yachts' CEO, Valdis Irbe, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, "Laniakea represents a perfect blend of artistry and innovation. We are thrilled to unveil a yacht that not only meets superior performance standards but also redefines luxury on the water."This remarkable vessel boasts a propulsion system developed in collaboration with BMW, allowing it to achieve speeds of up to 27 knots and a cruising pace of 16 knots. With a shallow draft of just 0.6 metres, Laniakea is well-suited for exploring the shallow waters of the Bahamas and Caribbean. Latitude Yachts has previously gained recognition for luxury vessels such as the 53.3-meter sci-fi-inspired trimaran, Galaxy of Happiness.Established in 2007, Latitude Yachts quickly gained recognition when its Quality Management System was certified by Bureau Veritas in 2011. By 2016, the shipyard launched the ocean-class trimarans, including the renowned Galaxy of Happiness.Credits: Latitude Yachts

Quick Group is making waves in the US market. Headquartered in Italy, Quick has established its reputation in the yacht and superyacht industries by partnering with premier boatbuilders globally. With the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show as the backdrop, Quick USA is excited to introduce three newly acquired brands – Sanguineti, Nemo, and Xenta – enhancing its product portfolio and commitment to the American boating community.Spotlighting the Brands Each of the three brands offers unique contributions to the marine industry. Xenta is dedicated to improving onboard maneuverability with its cutting-edge control systems. Nemo specializes in essential products like portlights and hatches, recently unveiling the first-ever pantograph door featuring an active compressed-air seal. Meanwhile, Sanguineti boasts over 50 years of artisanal craftsmanship, providing bespoke hydraulic and electric motion systems, including gangways and ladders – all tailored to meet the specific needs of yacht owners or shipyards.Marco SantoroMarco Santoro, Managing Director of Quick USA, notes, “Sanguineti, Xenta, and Nemo deliver customized production solutions that are distinctly relevant to the yacht and superyacht markets. Sanguineti products are 99% tailor-made, providing a unique offering that sets us apart from competitors."Santoro emphasizes that the quality of Sanguineti and Nemo is unparalleled in the US market, and Xenta stands alone by offering innovative solutions for vessels with traditional shaft-line propulsion. “Xenta can customize steering systems in a manner akin to Brembo’s impact on the automotive world," he explains, considering various technical aspects like vessel size and operational speed.Customized Solutions for American Clients The three brands are not only launching products but also tailoring them for American tastes. Santoro reveals, “Nemo is modifying some of its top-selling products for the US market. Similarly, Xenta is developing a specific offering for sportfishers, allowing owners to navigate effortlessly in any conditions.”Enhanced Service and Support Quick Group is also boosting its regional maintenance and support capabilities, particularly with the recent acquisition of Florida-based Yachting Marine Service (YMS), which specializes in superyacht service. “Our entire after-sales team is trained not just for initial installations but also for scheduled maintenance and warranty services,” adds Santoro, ensuring top-notch customer satisfaction.Strategic Expansion The launch of Sanguineti, Nemo, and Xenta represents a significant step in Quick Group's strategic growth, offering a comprehensive suite of products for OEMs and yacht owners alike. Michele Marzucco, CEO of Quick Group, states, “This expansion allows us to cater to a broader range of vessels, including larger yachts, while enhancing our position as a one-stop shop for marine equipment.”Marzucco emphasizes the importance of the US market, which has been integral to Quick's journey since the establishment of Quick USA in 2006. “We are poised for a new era, backed by our experienced sales and support teams,” he concludes. “With the introduction of these exceptional brands alongside our existing offerings, we are better equipped than ever to serve both American and European customers.”Quick USA looks forward to redefining the American boating experience by bringing bold Italian innovations and a commitment to quality and service to the forefront of the industry, ensuring they remain a key player in the market for years to come.Credits: Quick Group