The 2022 RORC Transatlantic Race started on January 8 in glorious conditions outside Marina Lanzarote. After months of preparation and planning, the 3,000nm race to Grenada has begun for 256 sailors from 27 different countries. The record fleet of 30 boats set off at blistering pace downwind leaving Lanzarote behind. The RORC fleet will race through the Canary Islands before sailing into the open waters of the Atlantic. A complex weather system promises a fascinating race to Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina in Grenada.
“15-20 knots of wind with a wave height of nearly one and a half meters made for a spectacular downwind start,” commented Tim Thubron, RORC Deputy Racing Manager. “Both the MOCRA and combined IRC class starts were very competitive; it just shows how spirited this fleet is. The RORC Race team will be monitoring their progress throughout the race 24-7, and as with all of our Club’s events, we wish all our competitors a safe and enjoyable race.”
The race to Grenada has begun for 256 sailors from 27 different countries
MOCRA
At speeds of over 30 knots the powerful multihulls in the MOCRA class were first away. Jason Carroll’s MOD70 Argo (USA) won the pin end with Giovanni Soldini’s Multi70 Maserati (ITA) first to cross the line to leeward. The Italian team was the first to gybe inshore and to the turning mark at Puerto Calero. However, Peter Cunningham’s MOD70 PowerPlay (CAY) ripped out in front hitting a speed of 33 knots. PowerPlay was first to clear the passage between Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. Argo and Maserati gybed south of the rhumb line, but PowerPlay continued to head to the north. Less than three hours into the race, the trio had travelled over 70 miles.
Jason Carroll’s MOD70 Argo (USA)
On January 9 the leading multihulls slowed down to under 20 knots as they entered the transition zone created between the low to the northwest and the trade winds to the northeast. Peter Cunningham’s MOD70 PowerPlay (CAY) has been the dominant force so far and has taken up a westerly position compared to Giovanni Soldini’s Multi70 Maserati (ITA), and Jason Carroll’s MOD70 Argo (USA). Tactically, PowerPlay is positioned between the competition and the finish. The race is on to cross the transition zone and gybe onto the fresh breeze to the northwest.
I Love Poland and Five Oceans
IRC SUPER ZERO
L4 Trifork got the best start of the big boat class, with Joern Larsen at the helm and Bouwe Bekking calling the shots. L4 Trifork started to leeward and got into clean air to hoist their massive spinnaker. L4 Trifork was originally the VO70 Ericsson 4 but now has DSS foils and a longer bowsprit – turbo charged would be an understatement. However, the 100ft canting keel Maxi Comanche, skippered by Mitch Booth also got away well, passing L4 Trifork to windward in a show of power.
L4 Trifork VO70
L4 Trifork gybed on their line and might have even got a tow in their quarter wave. It was an aggressive start by both teams. Three hours into the race Comanche leads by five miles. Behind the leaders on the water HYPR (NED), sailed by Jens Lindner, has taken a northerly position. The Polish National Foundation’s VO70 I Love Poland and The Austrian Ocean Racing’s VO65 Sisi are further to the south.
The 100ft Maxi Comanche (CAY) skippered by Mitch Booth gybed southwest shortly after dawn on day two and stayed on the same gybe all day. On a broad reach, Comanche has been unstoppable, achieving over 20 knots of boat speed hour after hour. If Comanche continues at this pace, the race record will be smashed by over three days. Volvo 70 L4 Trifork (DEN) is the most northerly boat of the RORC fleet and aptly the majority of the crew come from Scandinavia.
IRC ZERO
The super-fight between the offshore fifty-footers got off to a cracking start. Max Klink’s Botin 52 Caro (CH) nailed the pin end of the line like the team were starting an inshore race. David Collins Botin 52 Tala (GBR) was hardly shy of the line either. The Botin 56 Black Pearl (GER), helmed by Stefan Jentsch, was also in the mix. Three hours into the race the trio were screeching along, three-abreast, at close to 20 knots of boat speed.
Max Klink’s Botin 52 Caro (CH) and Tala (GBR) at the start of the RORC Transatlantic Race
Max Klink’s Botin 52 Caro (CH) is still leading the class on January 9, but only just. Botin 56 Black Pearl (GER), helmed by Stefan Jentsch, and David Collins’ Botin 52 Tala (GBR) have all gybed west and are continuing their close battle. In reality, all three boats are vying for the class and overall lead, after IRC time correction.
IRC ONE
Andrew Hall’s Lombard 46 Pata Negra (GBR) pulled away from the class at the start to lead on the water. Ross Applebey’s Oyster 48 Scarlet Oyster (GBR) had a great tactical start, hugging the coast of Lanzarote to record a velocity made good of over 10 knots. Christopher Daniel’s J/122 Juno (GBR) is racing across the Atlantic for the first time.
Leaving Tenerife to port initially worked out well for Richard Palmer’s JPK 1010 Jangada (GBR), Jacques Pelletier’s Milon 41 L'Ange De Milon (FRA) and Ross Applebey’s Oyster 48 Scarlet Oyster (GBR). However, Andrew Hall’s Lombard 46 Pata Negra (GBR), which went south of Tenerife, is now through the lee of the island and starting to increase in speed due to the good pressure.
Andrew Hall’s Lombard 46 Pata Negra with boat captain Chris Jackson (GBR)
Christopher Daniel on his J/121 Juno (GBR) reported in as the team passed south of Tenerife: “Juno had a good first 30 hours, with the North Atlantic giving us a welcome reception to remember. With winds ranging from 30 kts to almost nothing, we’ve already used every sail in the locker! Before the start we made the decision to err towards the rhumb line and have just rolled the dice to sail between Tenerife and La Palma. Not an easy call, and we’ll only ever know whether it was correct when we all re-converge to the west of La Palma’s wind shadow.
Carlo Vroon's Dutch entry, Diana bid farewell to Lanzarote, Canary Islands as they head off after the start
Two of the boats racing in the RORC Transatlantic Race have reported that they are heading for shore. Swan 58 OM II and the classic Faiaoahe. OM II has retired from racing and will sail to Antigua. Faiaoahe have reported that they have temporarily suspended racing but intend to resume racing. All are safe and well aboard both boats.
Credits: RORC Press Office; James Mitchell
Dynamiq has released new exterior images of its 52-meter GTT 170 superyacht, currently under construction at its Antalya shipyard in Turkey. The aluminum-hulled vessel, designed for shallow-water cruising with a 2-meter draft, targets owners in the U.S. and Middle East markets, with delivery scheduled for the 2027 Mediterranean season.The GTT 170 features naval architecture by Vripack, combining a top speed of 19 knots with IMO Tier III-compliant MAN V12 1,066 kW engines and an integrated battery pack. The stabilization system includes four electric fins and a Hull Vane aft foil to reduce pitch motion.Accommodation comprises five guest staterooms and an owner's suite, with a two-level beach club featuring a pool, bar, and spa with fold-out terraces. The sun deck includes an outdoor cinema and lounge areas.Dobroserdov Design developed the exterior, while Claudio Pironi & Partners created minimalist interiors using teak and natural marble. The yacht is being built at Dynamiq's Antalya facility with European subcontractors and Turkish craftsmen.Hull #2 is available for €29 million. The GTT 170's shallow draft enables access to Caribbean destinations like the Exumas and St. Barths, with 500 GT volume optimized for sub-50-meter length. No hybrid propulsion option was specified for this hull.Dynamiq was founded in 2014 by experienced yacht broker and designer Sergei Dobroserdov. Dynamiq is the first company in the superyacht industry to introduce an online configurator, allowing the yacht to be easily and transparently customized down to the last detail. Dynamiq unveiled its first launch at the 2016 Monaco Yacht Show.Credits: Dynamiq
May 13, 2025
Denison Yachting has entered an exclusive global partnership with French shipyard JFA Yachts to represent its Long Island brand of sail and power catamarans. The agreement focuses initially on models ranging from 70 to 100 feet.JFA's aluminum-hulled Long Island catamarans are designed for transoceanic cruising, with engineering by Marc Lombard Yacht Design Group and interiors by Darnet Design. The yachts emphasize lightweight construction, customizable layouts, and systems optimized for long-range performance. A Long Island 85 has recently sold, with a new Long Island 87 model scheduled for delivery later this year.Long Island 87David Johnson, Denison broker and U.S. brand representative, stated: "Alongside my colleague Simon in Europe, I'm proud to promote a shipyard that leads the world in building aluminum-hulled sailing and power catamarans—vessels purpose-built for owners seeking to explore the most remote parts of the world in total comfort."Simon Turner, overseeing European and global sales, added: "These exceptional, round-the-world-capable catamarans deliver an unmatched level of performance, luxury, and safety that is unparalleled anywhere else."Long Island 86 PowerJFA Yachts CEO Frédéric Jaouen noted: "We pride ourselves on attentively listening to our clients’ needs, exercising discretion, and developing trusted relationships. The savoir-faire of our team has earned JFA Yachts a reputation as one of the most respected shipyards in the world."The partnership expands Denison's portfolio of specialized cruising catamarans while providing JFA with global distribution channels. No specific sales targets or production figures were disclosed.Long Island 87 SailWith a rich family history dating back to 1948, Denison Yachting is a leader in the industry, providing comprehensive yachting services worldwide. With over 20 waterfront offices and a team of 90+ licensed brokers, Denison offers superyacht sales, yacht charter, crew placement, and new construction services. Their extensive experience and passion for yachting ensure a long-term perspective and commitment to excellence.French shipbuilder JFA Yachts was founded in 1993 by Frédéric Jaouen. JFA Yachts builds mono- and multihull power and sailing superyachts from 24 to 50 meters in length. Credits: Denison Yachting
May 13, 2025
Ferretti Group's Custom Line brand has launched four new custom yachts at its Ancona shipyard within eight weeks, including two Navetta models and two planing vessels. The launches demonstrate the shipyard's capacity for bespoke construction, with each yacht reflecting owner-specific customization through collaborative design processes.Custom Line 30#23The first vessel, a 32.82-meter Custom Line 106' (hull #24), launched on January 9, features exterior design by Ferretti Group Engineering and interiors developed by Custom Line Atelier in consultation with the Middle Eastern owner. The yacht's minimalist aesthetic combines dark wall coverings with light surfaces, complemented by freestanding furniture and folding guest tables. A social-focused flybridge completes the layout.On February 13, the 34th Custom Line Navetta 33 (33m x 7.52m) debuted for a European family. Its exterior was designed by Ferretti's Strategic Product Committee, with interiors by the Group's Engineering Department and Custom Line Atelier. The design employs dark finishes, pale marble, and leather accents, with mirrored surfaces enhancing spatial perception. American walnut flooring and ribbed master cabin details emphasize tactile refinement.Custom Line 33#34Two additional undisclosed models in the planing line were also completed during this period. Custom Line emphasizes direct owner involvement in all projects, with each yacht undergoing tailored design and construction processes at the Ancona facility. No delivery timelines or further technical specifications were disclosed for the recent launches.The consecutive completions highlight Custom Line's operational capacity for concurrent custom projects, with all four yachts now undergoing final outfitting before delivery to their respective owners. A new Custom Line Navetta 30 was launched on February 20 at a ceremony attended by the captain, the dealer and all the shipyard’s employees. The 23rd hull in the brand’s displacement line is the result of a joint design effort by the Product Strategy Department – for the exterior design – and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, with interior architecture penned by ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and exteriors designed by architect Filippo Salvetti. They were supported by the interior design experts at Custom Line Atelier, who liaised directly with the owner – based in the MEA area – to ensure that the yacht is a true-to-life portrait of the people who live on her. Permeated by a sporty but sophisticated spirit, the yacht has a design vision with a clear focus on conviviality. The rich hues of sand-coloured leather and Orobica marble act as warm, vibrant accents in a palette dominated by dark grey finishes, creating a bold yet refined chromatic interplay. The freestanding furniture solutions, featuring numerous formal and informal seating arrangements – including large sofas and coffee tables that bring guests together in conversation – reveals a design sensibility that understands the art of hospitality. It’s a choice that reflects the tastes and culture of an owner who comes from a city where hospitality is an integral part of the lifestyle.Custom Line 120'#12The launch of the 12th Custom Line 120’ last February 27 is the result of a design effort involving the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, supported by Custom Line Atelier for the interiors. With a length of 38.36 metres and a beam of 7.65 metres, this yacht combines a sleek silhouette with styling that effectively mirrors the owner’s vision. Designed for the AMAS market, the yacht stands out for her generous, welcoming spaces, where chairs with armrests and deep armchairs reveal a clear desire for comfort. The interiors, decorated with a palette of bright neutral colours, are styled with a simple but refined approach. The made-to-measure master bathroom features a pair of Calacatta Oro marble basins in the centre and beside them a vanity table with opening mirror and incorporated pouf; the generous shower cubicle is on the starboard side and the sanitary area is located to port. The care lavished on the layout and detailing highlights the bespoke nature of the design, driven by the desire to offer the ultimate in well-being. 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
May 13, 2025
Italian yacht builder Apreamare will make its first appearance at the Venice Boat Show from May 29 to June 2, 2025, alongside exclusive Northern Italy dealer Pedetti Yacht Sales. The event, held at Venice's historic Arsenale, will feature 270 exhibitors and 300 boats, with Apreamare showcasing its new Gozzo 38 Cabin model.The Gozzo 38 Cabin, designed by Cataldo Aprea and Marco Casali in collaboration with engineer Umberto Tagliavini, expands on the open Gozzo 35 with enhanced interior space and weather protection. The 11.45-meter yacht features a deckhouse for improved habitability, a 4-panel glass door connecting the cockpit to the dinette, and a layout with two cabins and a 2-meter headroom bathroom. The guest cabin includes a 140-centimeter-wide bed, exceeding standard dimensions for its class.Exterior amenities include a convertible cockpit table, L-shaped seating for six, and an extended beach platform. Propulsion options comprise twin Volvo Penta D4-270 DPI or D4-320 DPI sterndrives, or a traditional Volvo Penta D4-320 shaft configuration.The participation highlights Apreamare's focus on Northern Italy's market, where demand for its Sorrentine Gozzo designs continues to grow. The Venice Boat Show marks the first public exhibition of the Gozzo 38 Cabin, positioned between the Gozzo 35 and flagship Gozzo 45 in Apreamare's lineup.The history of the shipyard starts in 1849, when Giovanni Aprea started to handbuild rowing and sailing boats used for fishing in Sorrento, basing his craft on the shape and form of the traditional “gozzo sorrentino”. Now the shipyard range includes the Apreamare and Maestro yachts.Credits: Apreamar
May 12, 2025
GX Superyachts has unveiled interior details of its debut 42-meter model, the GX42 Raised Pilot House, designed for family-focused ownership with delivery scheduled for 2026. The yacht features an organic-inspired interior by Marco Casali and hybrid propulsion for efficient operation.The Raised Pilot House configuration allocates the main deck to a full-beam owner’s suite with private foredeck terrace, walk-in wardrobe, and office space. The lower deck accommodates a VIP suite with fold-down balcony and three flexible guest cabins, including a children’s cabin with Pullman berth. Social areas include a 10-person dining space on the main deck and an upper deck with hot tub, bar, and lounging areas.Owner Vladimir Zinchenko stated: "The debut GX42 shows what is possible, while remaining true to the principles of Responsible Yachting. For a boat with a slim, efficient hull, the volume is phenomenal."Casali’s design employs walnut wood paneling, white leather, and Italian fabrics, with curved edges throughout to enhance a relaxed ambiance. Lighting by Ultra Luce and artwork from the owner’s collection complete the aesthetic."This is no showboat for flexing the muscles," said Casali. "We worked closely with the owners to realise their priorities for a family friendly design that favours extended periods on board."The GX42 represents the first released details of GX Superyachts’ new line, emphasizing sustainable materials and long-range cruising capabilities.Credits: GX Superyachts
May 12, 2025