#1. Project Thunder
Length: 135m
Builder: Lurssen
A most eagerly anticipated in-build of the German mega-yacht manufacturer, measuring 135 meters and known as project Thunder, was launched on April 3 at Lurssen facility in Bremen.
The project’s codename derives from Leigong, or Lord of Thunder, in Chinese mythology. Due for delivery towards the end of 2018, the colossal leisure vessel is expected to cruise mostly in Asian waters. The elegant profile of the five-deck steel-hulled yacht is reportedly a creation of the acclaimed naval architect Espen Oeino. Meanwhile, the interior designer is yet to be announced.
#2. Jubilee
Length: 110m
Builder: Oceanco
Launched on February 6, the largest yacht ever built in the Netherlands, the 110-meter Jubilee was delivered by Oceanco in July. The boat was ordered by the former emir of Qatar, but, following his death, she was put up for sale through Burgess.
The Italian-based designer of Russian origin, Igor Lobanov is responsible for her architecturally challenging exterior, which creates a visual effect of multi-level decks. The mega-yacht boasts a fully certified helicopter operating deck forward with a concealed mooring deck below. Viewed from above, her curvaceous lines lead aft to a large pool deck with a built-in aquarium and a substantial beach club. Jubilee can carry a total of 30 guests in 15 staterooms, including an entirely private owner’s deck, as well as a crew of 45, within her interior styled by Sam Sorgiovanni from Australia.
A noteworthy fact about Jubilee is that she was conceived as a turn-key project offered at her delivery with a complete set of tenders, watersports equipment, china, crystal, silverware, linen, loose furniture, et c.
Powered by twin MTU engines of 4.828 hp each, Jubilee can reach a maximum speed of 18.5 knots and cruises at 14 knots for up to 5.000 nautical miles.
#3. Aviva
Length: 98m
Builder: Abeking & Rasmussen
Built by Abeking & Rasmussen for Joe Lewis, the 98-meter superyacht launched on January 9 became the 4th Aviva in the UK billionaire’s fleet.
This latest Aviva boasts exterior and interior design by Reymond Langton that teamed up with Toby Silverton to developed her sleek and elegant profile. The boat’s modern interior notably features a 20 meters x 10 meters x 6 meters tennis court. Her efficient hull shape is said to reduce drag by up to 20%. While she cruises at the maximum speed of 30 knots, a very special hybrid drive system allows Aviva to run at up to 11 knots, using electric motors only.
Aviva was launched on January 9. The shipyard prepared a special launching system for the new yacht. A large pontoon from Norway had been shipped in and moored in front of the new building shed. A special hydraulic platform trailer with 60 wheels moved the mega-yacht onto the pontoon.
#4. Project Fiji
Length: 95m
Builder: Lurssen
The 95-meter Lurssen project Fiji was spotted splashing down the slipway on October 27. The gigantic in-build is developed under the supervision of Moran Yacht & Ship, representing the owner, who is a long-standing client of the brokerage firm for some 15 years. According to the contract signed in 2015 at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the yacht is scheduled for delivery in 2019.
The UK-based designer Harrison Eidsgaard, in charge of the boat’s exterior, gave her harmonious proportions, so that, with her solid hull and a beam of 14m, she still boasts sleek and elegant contours. The abundance of volume allows for a large beach club and a Spa area with a sea terrace on the lower deck. The bow hosts a certified helicopter landing area. The sun deck aft offers a hidden crane in the bulwark to handle an aeroboat.
The interior layout was designed by Laura Sessa studio, known in the yachting world for collaborations with Amels. The living space can best be described as contemporary modern. The upper deck aft features a walkable skylight and an integrated fireplace for cozy moments in the evening.
#5. Areti
Length: 85m
Builder: Lurssen
The 85-meter Areti, formerly known as project Sasha, was launched by Lurssen on April 10, and then delivered to her owner in July this year.
British studio Winch Design was appointed to make both the exterior and the interior design of the luxury yacht, giving her a sleek and perfectly balanced profile complemented by a traditional, yet fresh indoor styling.
The subtle cream hull in steel, along with the white superstructure with gray accents resemble her owner’s previous yachts. Areti is a voluminous boat, featuring an enormous master suite with eight spacious guest cabins. Many of her entertaining areas impose a beach-chic vibe, without sacrificing her elegance.
On the lower deck aft, one can find a Spa complete with sauna, hot tub, full depth plunge pool and experience showers. This area further extends to the beach club, which in turn, opens up to the vast swim platform. Owners can enjoy their private deck area, boasting its own Jacuzzi, forward of the master suite. And certainly Areti would not be complete without a certified helipad.
#6. Cloud 9
Length: 74m
Builder: CRN
Launched by CRN on January 21, the 74-meter Cloud 9 made the shipyard's second largest yacht to date, outranked only by the 80-meter Chopi Chopi.
With an exterior by Zuccon and an interior by Winch Design, the superyacht is able to accommodate up to 16 guests in a master suite, a VIP suite and 6 guest cabins catered to by a crew of 22. Focused on a free interior-exterior flow, Cloud 9 boasts over 1.000 square meters of livable space. Among the boat’s key amenities are a private deck, complete with an intimate lounging area, forward of the master cabin, and an extensive beach club with an extended platform.
From a technical standpoint, the yacht is featured by twin Caterpillar 3516C engines of 2.680 hp each, giving her a top speed of 16.5 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots.
#7. Aurora
Length: 74m
Builder: Lurssen
Lurssen launched the 74-meter Aurora at their facility in Rendsburg on March 14, with Moran Yacht & Ship confirming the delivery in June. Previously known to the public as project Thor, the superyacht conceived by Winch Design was commissioned back in the first quarter of 2014 through Moran Yacht & Ship.
Within her interior volume of 2.113 GT, Aurora features accommodations for 16 guests in eight well-appointed staterooms. The indoor styling is inspired by the early 1900s Art Deco era. The owner contributed to the design of the master suite, featuring a collection of antique artworks.
Powered by twin MTU engines, Aurora reaches a top speed of 18 knots and comfortably cruises at 16 knots.
#8. New Secret
Length: 74m
Builder: Amels
The 74-meter Amels project was launched on March 1 and christened New Secret. However, little information was disclosed about this highly secretive superyacht until her delivery in May. It then became known that the boat’s exterior lines were elaborated by the renowned British designer Tim Heywood, while Winch Design created her “sophisticated and modern” interior. Both designers closely collaborated with the owner, which could be seen in numerous custom features onboard, including a larger helipad on the bridge deck, or a dedicated Spa area.
Notably, New Secret isn’t available for sale, nor for charter, welcoming VIP guests only.
With a total fuel capacity of 155.000 liters, the yacht boasts a cruising range of 5.000 nautical miles at 12.5 knots.
#9. Hasna
Length: 73m
Builder: Feadship
The first yacht ordered by an Australian client in the Dutch shipyard’s history, the 73-meter Hasna was launched by Feadship on June 3.
Styled inside and out by the British studio RWD, she was custom built to her owner’s requirements. Among the atypical features of her layout is a vast beach club opening on both sides, but not at the stern. This arrangement, combined with moving the engine room forward of the lower deck cabins, allows for an 8-meter deep water swimming pool located aft of the main deck. The beach club itself includes a gym and a relaxation area accessible directly from the cabins.
Other amenities include a butler's cabin, a cinema on the main deck and a 25-meter sundeck with an interior section amidships complete with a barbecue & grill set up and a Jacuzzi. The atmosphere on Hasna is described as “beach chic”.
#10. Game Changer
Length: 70m
Builder: Damen
On February 22 Damen, the Dutch shipyard, parent company of Amels, launched Game Changer, a 70-meter yacht support vessel with a helicopter hangar.
The boat features a fully certified helideck, enabling owners to take larger helicopters on long-range flights to the mothership and land safely in a wider weather window. Lowering the helicopter into the hangar protects it from the elements, so it can be refueled and available for take-off without hassle and noise.
In addition, Game Changer has 250 square meters of open deck space for tenders and toys. The large deck crane makes logistics and handling simple, fast and safe. The 110-square-meter area below decks is occupied by a storage and a dive center. The vessel has facilities and accommodation for 22 crew and staff. It can carry a huge amount of extra provisions, fuel, luggage and spare parts.
Game Changer is powered by MTU engines of 3000 hp each, giving it a top speed of 20 knots and a cruising speed of 18 knots. The boat's maximum range is estimated at 4.500 nautical miles.
You may follow the updates on the ongoing projects and new builds through Yacht Harbour Timeline platform.
Length: 135m
Builder: Lurssen
A most eagerly anticipated in-build of the German mega-yacht manufacturer, measuring 135 meters and known as project Thunder, was launched on April 3 at Lurssen facility in Bremen.
The project’s codename derives from Leigong, or Lord of Thunder, in Chinese mythology. Due for delivery towards the end of 2018, the colossal leisure vessel is expected to cruise mostly in Asian waters. The elegant profile of the five-deck steel-hulled yacht is reportedly a creation of the acclaimed naval architect Espen Oeino. Meanwhile, the interior designer is yet to be announced.
#2. Jubilee
Length: 110m
Builder: Oceanco
Launched on February 6, the largest yacht ever built in the Netherlands, the 110-meter Jubilee was delivered by Oceanco in July. The boat was ordered by the former emir of Qatar, but, following his death, she was put up for sale through Burgess.
The Italian-based designer of Russian origin, Igor Lobanov is responsible for her architecturally challenging exterior, which creates a visual effect of multi-level decks. The mega-yacht boasts a fully certified helicopter operating deck forward with a concealed mooring deck below. Viewed from above, her curvaceous lines lead aft to a large pool deck with a built-in aquarium and a substantial beach club. Jubilee can carry a total of 30 guests in 15 staterooms, including an entirely private owner’s deck, as well as a crew of 45, within her interior styled by Sam Sorgiovanni from Australia.
A noteworthy fact about Jubilee is that she was conceived as a turn-key project offered at her delivery with a complete set of tenders, watersports equipment, china, crystal, silverware, linen, loose furniture, et c.
Powered by twin MTU engines of 4.828 hp each, Jubilee can reach a maximum speed of 18.5 knots and cruises at 14 knots for up to 5.000 nautical miles.
#3. Aviva
Length: 98m
Builder: Abeking & Rasmussen
Built by Abeking & Rasmussen for Joe Lewis, the 98-meter superyacht launched on January 9 became the 4th Aviva in the UK billionaire’s fleet.
This latest Aviva boasts exterior and interior design by Reymond Langton that teamed up with Toby Silverton to developed her sleek and elegant profile. The boat’s modern interior notably features a 20 meters x 10 meters x 6 meters tennis court. Her efficient hull shape is said to reduce drag by up to 20%. While she cruises at the maximum speed of 30 knots, a very special hybrid drive system allows Aviva to run at up to 11 knots, using electric motors only.
Aviva was launched on January 9. The shipyard prepared a special launching system for the new yacht. A large pontoon from Norway had been shipped in and moored in front of the new building shed. A special hydraulic platform trailer with 60 wheels moved the mega-yacht onto the pontoon.
#4. Project Fiji
Length: 95m
Builder: Lurssen
The 95-meter Lurssen project Fiji was spotted splashing down the slipway on October 27. The gigantic in-build is developed under the supervision of Moran Yacht & Ship, representing the owner, who is a long-standing client of the brokerage firm for some 15 years. According to the contract signed in 2015 at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the yacht is scheduled for delivery in 2019.
The UK-based designer Harrison Eidsgaard, in charge of the boat’s exterior, gave her harmonious proportions, so that, with her solid hull and a beam of 14m, she still boasts sleek and elegant contours. The abundance of volume allows for a large beach club and a Spa area with a sea terrace on the lower deck. The bow hosts a certified helicopter landing area. The sun deck aft offers a hidden crane in the bulwark to handle an aeroboat.
The interior layout was designed by Laura Sessa studio, known in the yachting world for collaborations with Amels. The living space can best be described as contemporary modern. The upper deck aft features a walkable skylight and an integrated fireplace for cozy moments in the evening.
#5. Areti
Length: 85m
Builder: Lurssen
The 85-meter Areti, formerly known as project Sasha, was launched by Lurssen on April 10, and then delivered to her owner in July this year.
British studio Winch Design was appointed to make both the exterior and the interior design of the luxury yacht, giving her a sleek and perfectly balanced profile complemented by a traditional, yet fresh indoor styling.
The subtle cream hull in steel, along with the white superstructure with gray accents resemble her owner’s previous yachts. Areti is a voluminous boat, featuring an enormous master suite with eight spacious guest cabins. Many of her entertaining areas impose a beach-chic vibe, without sacrificing her elegance.
On the lower deck aft, one can find a Spa complete with sauna, hot tub, full depth plunge pool and experience showers. This area further extends to the beach club, which in turn, opens up to the vast swim platform. Owners can enjoy their private deck area, boasting its own Jacuzzi, forward of the master suite. And certainly Areti would not be complete without a certified helipad.
#6. Cloud 9
Length: 74m
Builder: CRN
Launched by CRN on January 21, the 74-meter Cloud 9 made the shipyard's second largest yacht to date, outranked only by the 80-meter Chopi Chopi.
With an exterior by Zuccon and an interior by Winch Design, the superyacht is able to accommodate up to 16 guests in a master suite, a VIP suite and 6 guest cabins catered to by a crew of 22. Focused on a free interior-exterior flow, Cloud 9 boasts over 1.000 square meters of livable space. Among the boat’s key amenities are a private deck, complete with an intimate lounging area, forward of the master cabin, and an extensive beach club with an extended platform.
From a technical standpoint, the yacht is featured by twin Caterpillar 3516C engines of 2.680 hp each, giving her a top speed of 16.5 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots.
#7. Aurora
Length: 74m
Builder: Lurssen
Lurssen launched the 74-meter Aurora at their facility in Rendsburg on March 14, with Moran Yacht & Ship confirming the delivery in June. Previously known to the public as project Thor, the superyacht conceived by Winch Design was commissioned back in the first quarter of 2014 through Moran Yacht & Ship.
Within her interior volume of 2.113 GT, Aurora features accommodations for 16 guests in eight well-appointed staterooms. The indoor styling is inspired by the early 1900s Art Deco era. The owner contributed to the design of the master suite, featuring a collection of antique artworks.
Powered by twin MTU engines, Aurora reaches a top speed of 18 knots and comfortably cruises at 16 knots.
#8. New Secret
Length: 74m
Builder: Amels
The 74-meter Amels project was launched on March 1 and christened New Secret. However, little information was disclosed about this highly secretive superyacht until her delivery in May. It then became known that the boat’s exterior lines were elaborated by the renowned British designer Tim Heywood, while Winch Design created her “sophisticated and modern” interior. Both designers closely collaborated with the owner, which could be seen in numerous custom features onboard, including a larger helipad on the bridge deck, or a dedicated Spa area.
Notably, New Secret isn’t available for sale, nor for charter, welcoming VIP guests only.
With a total fuel capacity of 155.000 liters, the yacht boasts a cruising range of 5.000 nautical miles at 12.5 knots.
#9. Hasna
Length: 73m
Builder: Feadship
The first yacht ordered by an Australian client in the Dutch shipyard’s history, the 73-meter Hasna was launched by Feadship on June 3.
Styled inside and out by the British studio RWD, she was custom built to her owner’s requirements. Among the atypical features of her layout is a vast beach club opening on both sides, but not at the stern. This arrangement, combined with moving the engine room forward of the lower deck cabins, allows for an 8-meter deep water swimming pool located aft of the main deck. The beach club itself includes a gym and a relaxation area accessible directly from the cabins.
Other amenities include a butler's cabin, a cinema on the main deck and a 25-meter sundeck with an interior section amidships complete with a barbecue & grill set up and a Jacuzzi. The atmosphere on Hasna is described as “beach chic”.
#10. Game Changer
Length: 70m
Builder: Damen
On February 22 Damen, the Dutch shipyard, parent company of Amels, launched Game Changer, a 70-meter yacht support vessel with a helicopter hangar.
The boat features a fully certified helideck, enabling owners to take larger helicopters on long-range flights to the mothership and land safely in a wider weather window. Lowering the helicopter into the hangar protects it from the elements, so it can be refueled and available for take-off without hassle and noise.
In addition, Game Changer has 250 square meters of open deck space for tenders and toys. The large deck crane makes logistics and handling simple, fast and safe. The 110-square-meter area below decks is occupied by a storage and a dive center. The vessel has facilities and accommodation for 22 crew and staff. It can carry a huge amount of extra provisions, fuel, luggage and spare parts.
Game Changer is powered by MTU engines of 3000 hp each, giving it a top speed of 20 knots and a cruising speed of 18 knots. The boat's maximum range is estimated at 4.500 nautical miles.
You may follow the updates on the ongoing projects and new builds through Yacht Harbour Timeline platform.
Henk de Vries III will retire as Director of Feadship and CEO of Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw on 1 May 2025, concluding nearly four decades of leadership in the superyacht industry. He will transition to an Ambassador role for Feadship while maintaining involvement as a non-executive board member and shareholder of the family-owned shipbuilder.Henk de Vries De Vries joined the company in 1987 and became a director/shareholder in 1996 alongside his cousin Tom de Vries. Under their leadership, De Vries expanded to seven operating companies with over 1,200 employees. The group remains fully family-owned and holds a 50% stake in Feadship.A proponent of sustainability, de Vries co-founded the Water Revolution Foundation in 2018 and continues as its Board Chairman. The organization focuses on reducing yachting’s ecological impact through science-based initiatives.Leadership transitions to Roderick de Vries as CEO and Operational Director, with Bas Nederpelt assuming the role of Chief Commercial Officer and Feadship Director. The new executive team brings over 80 years of combined experience at De Vries.Henk and Tom de VriesHenk de Vries stated: “The four members of our new executive board bring with them over eighty years of De Vries experience. Their deep understanding of the company ensures it is in very capable hands.”Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
April 25, 2025
Apreamare California, the brand’s new exclusive dealer for the U.S. West Coast, will present the American premiere of the Gozzo 38 Cabin at the Newport Beach International Boat Show from May 1st to 4th. The new dealership, led by entrepreneur Jack Suski, marks Apreamare’s return to the U.S. market, where the brand has previously sold nearly 100 boats across Florida, California, Connecticut, and other regions.Based in San Francisco Bay, Apreamare California maintains direct ties with the Sorrento shipyard, ensuring clients receive an authentic Made in Italy experience.The Gozzo 38 Cabin is a year-round cruising version of the popular Gozzo line, designed for enhanced comfort in rougher waters while retaining the open version’s signature style. Developed by Cataldo Aprea, Marco Casali, and Umberto Tagliavini, the model features a redesigned deckhouse with panoramic windows, offering a 360-degree view and a fully enclosed dinette.Giovanni Aprea, Sales Director of Apreamare, stated: “Overseas shipowners have always shown a strong appreciation for Apreamare boats, attracted by the timeless style of our creations, the excellent navigation capabilities, and the endless customization possibilities. With Apreamare California and our participation in the Newport Beach boat show, we bring this heritage directly to our esteemed American customers.”Jack Suski, CEO of Apreamare California, added: “I am thrilled to introduce the Gozzo 38 Cabin to California. Apreamare’s elegance and seaworthiness perfectly align with West Coast boating culture, offering owners the opportunity to cruise the coastline in style and with confidence.”The Newport Beach International Boat Show will be held at Lido Marina Village.Credits: Apreamare
April 25, 2025
The 60 Sunreef Power Eco electric catamaran has been named Catamaran of the Year 2025 in the Multipower category. The award was presented on April 23 during the International Multihull Show in La Grande Mothe, France. The prestigious accolade is granted by Multihulls World magazine to recognize the most innovative and outstanding catamarans in the industry.The 18m catamaran features an advanced solar energy system with photovoltaic panels integrated into the hulls, bimini roof, and superstructure. Powered by two electric motors, the vessel benefits from a continuous supply of clean energy, delivering a smooth and environmentally friendly sailing experience.A key feature of the 60 Sunreef Power Eco is its special ultralight battery, which enables silent and vibration-free operation. The catamaran is designed for comprehensive 360° sustainable sailing, incorporating an energy-efficient air conditioning system and eco-friendly materials in its finishes. 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
April 25, 2025
Viken Group has introduced its latest innovation in the luxury cruise yacht sector – the 196-meter REI. Developed as a collaborative effort between the three brands of the Viken Group – TDoS (Tillberg Design of Sweden), Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – the project aims to set new standards in sustainable and exclusive cruise experiences.The REI project solidifies Viken Group’s position as a pioneer in the luxury cruise yacht segment. The vessel, designed to accommodate up to 112 guests and 125 crew members across its 10 decks, features a beam of 28 meters and offers a unique blend of adventure, sustainability, and exclusivity.“We are thrilled to introduce REI. The 196-meter project is the perfect illustration of the combined offerings of the Viken Group, where we manage exterior styling, engineering, master planning, and interior under one umbrella,” said Fredrik Johansson, Co-Founder of the Viken Group and Executive Director of TDoS. “This approach helps our clients streamline the process dramatically, control investments, and optimize outcomes for both guests and operators.”The yacht’s design features a streamlined exterior inspired by nature, combining technical, industrial, and automotive aesthetics with dynamic curves. In contrast, the contemporary interior offers a tranquil environment with adjustable lighting and tactile materials, providing a rare digital detox experience for guests.REI’s design focuses on balancing private and public spaces, featuring numerous dedicated areas for exclusive use. Notable amenities include duplex suites with private winter gardens and pools, massage areas, double-height windows showcasing panoramic views, and a stunning forward infinity pool.Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with multiple propulsion options including electric, hydrogen, solar, and wind power. The vessel also includes a secondary 27-meter expedition vessel for easy embarkation and disembarkation, powered by electric or solar energy.The onboard experience is designed to be ever-evolving, with entertainment, activities, and menus adapting to the time of year and location. The exploratory dining concept, themed ‘from sea, to land, to sky,’ offers a diverse culinary journey.“The market for cruise yachts is currently looking very promising,” said Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director at Viken Group. “Thanks to our three brands – TDoS, Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – Viken Group can harness our unique expertise across superyachts, cruise ships, and refits, meaning we are perfectly positioned to make our mark.”The REI project represents a significant advancement in the luxury cruise yacht sector, combining innovative design, sustainability, and an unparalleled guest experience.Credits: Viken Group
April 24, 2025
Heesen Yachts has announced the passing of its founder, Frans Heesen, on April 23, 2025, in his hometown of Oss. He is survived by his wife Petra, children, and grandchildren.Frans Heesen’s leadership and talent for identifying and nurturing potential were fundamental to the success and growth of Heesen Yachts. Known for his visionary approach and Dutch courage, Heesen took bold steps that shaped the future of the shipyard.One of his most notable achievements was the decision to build the groundbreaking yacht Octopussy, despite significant risks. This project not only succeeded but also brought global recognition to Heesen Yachts.Throughout his career, Frans dedicated himself to creating a family-like atmosphere at the shipyard. Even after the company was sold, the family environment he established remained strong. The values he instilled continue to define the company’s culture today.Heesen Yachts expressed its deepest condolences to Frans’ family and friends, noting that while his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit and vision will continue to guide the company.Frans Heesen’s contributions have left a lasting impact on the yachting industry and on everyone who had the opportunity to work with him. He will be remembered for his pioneering spirit and dedication to excellence.Credits: Heesen Yachts
April 24, 2025