Lateral Naval Architects are proud to present their latest 102-metre superyacht project on the opening day of the “Monaco Yacht Show 2018”. Developed in collaboration with Sinot and Oceanco, Project “Balance” showcases technical innovation for real-world benefits: more space, increased efficiency and exceptional performance.
British naval architecture and engineering firm Lateral has today revealed their latest 100+ metre superyacht vessel designed by Sinot, engineered by Lateral and enabled by Oceanco. The 102-metre Project “Balance” is based on Oceanco’s proven LIFE platform - an optimised, sleek hull delivering fuel efficiency, environmentally conscious solutions and technical innovation.
On board, Project “Balance” accommodates 14 guests across several generous staterooms, including four double suites on the lower deck, two VIP apartments on the main deck and an impressive owner’s facilities on the dedicated owner’s deck. Her clean, architectural lines come from the drawing boards of Sinot, who has incorporated large glass windows into her profile as well as introduced expansive outdoor spaces to create a perfect balance between indoor and outdoor.
Explaining the engineering design philosophy behind the project, Lateral’s Managing Director, James Roy, states that as the name implies, balance is, indeed, at the very heart of the vessel. “We do not live in a linear world,” Roy explains. “The world is in balance, our earth and its ecology act as a coordinated system to maintain the balance of nature and a state of equilibrium. A small change in a seemingly benign parameter is balanced out by another to ensure the complex system remains in balance. Balance, then, is the inspiration for our project. Project “Balance” is a yacht with a natural balance of proportion, form and space - achieved by taking inspiration from the laws of nature and asking new questions.”
Oceanco’s LIFE platform is developed in collaboration with Lateral, and leverages fundamental naval architectural principles to deliver a design which operates in a virtuous circle; less weight, less power and less technical space in turn driving the need for a lower overall gross tonnage and afford a better balance of technical and luxury space on board. This virtuous circle results in being able to select a lower engine block series, which in turns means a significant reduction in the vertical height required in main machinery spaces. At the centre of the virtuous circle is the result; a single tier engine room.
Lateral’s Principal Naval Architect explains the immediate benefits of a single tier engine room, Alex Meredith Hardy: “Where conventional designs of this size would employ a full height engine room, Project “Balance” can utilise a single tier design to deliver more benefits to the owner. The single tier engine room at the heart of the LIFE platform delivers greater accommodation and lifestyle space, more flexibility in layout, and, ultimately, a yacht of perfect balance.”
Coupled with a hybrid propulsion system featuring twin 16V2000M72 engines @ 1440kW, Project “Balance” delivers exceptional performance and is configured to offer multiple operational modes, each matched to the variable operating profile of a yacht designed to adventure autonomously across the world’s oceans. She boasts a range of 5,300 nm, a cruising speed of 16 knots, and a top speed of 18.5 knots.
Speaking of the exterior design, Sinot states: “With a 102-metre length and nicely balanced superstructure, the yachts’ appearance lives up to her name. Teak detailing in the ceilings, the stern and on the side grills offer a warm and pleasant demeanour. From the beach club up to the observatory, the five decks provide vast space for outdoor activities, lounging and dining - with the main deck featuring a 10-metre pool and an outside cinema found on the bridge deck. On the lower deck, the efficient single-level engine room creates a very spacious area for the stunning open beach club, the laguna lounge, a large gym and a fully equipped spa with sauna. In short, Project “Balance” is the perfect family yacht; her innovative layout and design will set the new standard for future generations.”
The Lateral team are present at the Monaco Yacht Show this week from 26th to 29th September. Want to hear more about Project “Balance”? Visit Lateral in the Designers Gallery/DG10.
Spanish marina operator Ocibar has entered its first international venture by acquiring a 25% stake in Marina d'Arechi, a major Italian marina located in Salerno. The facility, developed and operated by the Gallozzi Group, offers 950 berths for vessels from 10 to 100 meters, along with winter storage and maintenance services.Antonio Zaforteza, CEO of Ocibar, stated: “Marina d’Arechi is one of the great examples of success in marina development in the Mediterranean and still has significant growth potential. Our alliance will further enhance this marina and integrate it into a unique value proposition for its customers and those of the various Ocibar marinas.”Ocibar, which manages marinas in Tarragona, Mallorca, Ibiza, and Valencia, sees the investment as part of its Mediterranean expansion strategy. The Gallozzi Group, active in shipping and port operations since 1952, welcomed the partnership.Agostino Gallozzi, CEO of the Gallozzi Group and Marina d’Arechi, said: “We had contemplated expanding the shareholder base of Marina d’Arechi and are very happy to have Ocibar joining us with a 25 per cent participation, based on shared values and principles of business ethics. Our partnership will propel Marina d’Arechi into a new phase of development.”Planned upgrades include berth expansion, infrastructure improvements, and the construction of a hotel to support Salerno's tourism initiatives.Credits: Marina d'Arechi
April 18, 2025
GB Marine Group, the parent company of Grand Banks and Palm Beach Motor Yachts, has named Lynn Fischer as its new Global Chief Marketing Officer. The appointment follows recent expansions, including a 114,000-square-foot factory upgrade, and aligns with the company’s focus on brand growth and owner services.Fischer, previously Chief Marketing Officer at private aviation firm Vista, brings experience in luxury and premium brand strategy. In her new role, she will oversee marketing, brand development, and customer engagement for GB Marine Group’s yacht brands.Lynn Fischer“GB Marine Group is not only a heritage builder – celebrating nearly 70 years of Grand Banks Yachts and 30 years of Palm Beach Motor Yachts – it's a company at the forefront of next-generation yachting,” said Fischer. “From its ocean racing-inspired manufacturing approach that redefines performance and fuel efficiency, to its use of advanced technology and materials, GB Marine Group is pushing the boundaries of what's possible on the water.”CEO Mark Richards stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Lynn to the GB Marine Group. Her deep expertise in building aspirational brands and delivering personalized client experiences will be instrumental as we bring even more exciting new products to market, expand our global footprint, and evolve our factory-direct strategy.”Fischer’s responsibilities will include brand strategy, digital marketing, global campaigns, and enhancing owner experience programs. The move comes as the company prepares new product launches and expands its factory-direct sales model."GB Marine Group owns and operates three premium yacht brands: Grand Banks, Palm Beach Motor Yachts, and Eastbay YachtsCredits: GB Marine Group
April 18, 2025
Itama has introduced the Itama 54, a new 16.44-meter open cruiser designed to enhance onboard comfort and living space while retaining the brand’s signature style. The model, presented at boot Düsseldorf, marks Itama’s return to the 50 to 59-foot segment.Developed by the Ferretti Group Product Strategy Committee and the Group’s Engineering Department, with exterior and interior design by Tommaso De Luca, the Itama 54 features a streamlined aesthetic with functional innovations. The exterior includes a forward sun pad integrated into the deck and a redesigned transom that provides 1,800 liters of storage for water toys. Access to the bow has been relocated to the starboard side for improved convenience.The deck layout prioritizes comfort, with a large aft sun pad and a dual-cockpit design. The main cockpit includes a convertible dining area, while a second cockpit behind the windscreen offers a sheltered relaxation space. Both are served by a portside bar unit. The helm station features an ergonomic seat and a floating dashboard.Below deck, the Itama 54 accommodates two cabins, two bathrooms, a galley, and a dinette. The master cabin includes a central bed with storage, while the guest cabin offers a choice between a queen-size bed or bunk beds. Interior materials include wood, leather, and fabric, emphasizing simplicity and functionality. Side glazing runs the length of the hull, contributing to a modern silhouette.The yacht is powered by twin MAN i6-730 engines (730 HP) as standard, delivering a top speed of 33 knots and a cruising speed of 28 knots. An optional upgrade to MAN i6-850 engines (850 HP) increases performance to 37 knots top speed and 33 knots cruising speed (preliminary data).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.Credits: Ferretti Group
April 18, 2025
Camper & Nicholsons announces the establishment of its fourteenth office in Viareggio, Italy. This strategic move underscores the company's ongoing dedication to maintaining leadership in yacht construction and design.Located within one of Europe's premier yacht-building hubs, the new facility will focus on new-build sales, refitting services, and comprehensive project management. It symbolizes Camper & Nicholsons' evolving approach to yacht design, aiming to set new benchmarks for creative innovation and superior craftsmanship.According to Paolo Casani, CEO of Camper & Nicholsons, “The rising demand for new builds and project management necessitated establishing a specialized presence to enhance client service delivery. The Viareggio office provides an advanced structure guiding owners throughout all stages of yacht creation, from concept to completion.”Led by Daniela Duck, Managing Director of Camper & Nicholsons Italy, the office aims to cater to the expanding market for customized yacht solutions. Beyond conventional sales and project oversight, the Viareggio branch envisions becoming an inspirational space where clients engage directly in the design process, shaping their visions collaboratively with experts.Additionally, Camper & Nicholsons is pioneering novel digital tools to streamline and elevate the design phase further. This innovative initiative reinforces the company's reputation for pushing boundaries in yacht engineering and aesthetics.With its latest venture, Camper & Nicholsons seeks to usher in a transformative period for yacht development, blending tradition with modern technology. The firm welcomes stakeholders and enthusiasts alike to join in creating the next wave of exceptional vessels.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
April 17, 2025
U-Boat Worx's submarines aboard Viking and Seabourn expedition vessels are transforming marine exploration, enabling unprecedented discoveries and advancements in oceanography. Powered by state-of-the-art technology, these submersibles facilitate detailed observations and data collection in previously unreachable marine habitats.Recent highlights include the rare documentation of the giant phantom jellyfish (Stygiomedusa gigantea) in Antarctica, marking the first publication of such findings by a cruise line. Other achievements encompass exploratory dives in the Great Lakes, leading to extensive surveys of historic shipwrecks. Most notably, Seabourn Pursuit located the long-lost Titania, a German supply vessel, which had remained undiscovered for over a century.Equipped with sophisticated instruments capable of diving to 300-meter depths, these submarines enable researchers to assess marine biodiversity, evaluate climate change effects, and monitor delicate ecosystems. Their presence aboard Viking and Seabourn ships underscores the synergy between luxury travel and scientific progress, setting a precedent for environmentally conscious exploration.Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, emphasized, "Every voyage provides opportunities for scientific discovery… Our expedition vessels and scientists have already contributed to research that might not have been possible otherwise." Similarly, Robin West, VP and GM of Expeditions at Seabourn, highlighted the company's dedication to pioneering exploration: "These experiences are a testament to the spirit of expedition... taking guests to places where no other human has ever ventured."By integrating luxury with scientific rigor, Viking and Seabourn exemplify how maritime exploration can yield valuable insights, enhancing global awareness of marine ecosystems and advancing efforts toward sustainable conservation.Founded in 2005, U-Boat Worx leads the global market in designing and manufacturing submersibles for private, research, and cruise industries. With over 60 operational units worldwide, the company prioritizes safety, performance, and comfort, continuously innovating underwater exploration technologies.Credits: U-Boat Worx
April 17, 2025