41m Explorer ZeXplorer Sold and Renamed

Northrop & Johnson has facilitated the sale of the 54-meter Benetti motor yacht Starfire, represented by broker Carl Sputh. Built in 1997, the steel-and-aluminum vessel has undergone two major refits (2019 and 2023) that included mechanical updates and interior renovations.The yacht accommodates 14 guests across six staterooms with crew quarters for 14 personnel. Recent upgrades comprised a 12,000-hour engine service, new stabilization systems, updated technology infrastructure, and refreshed interior finishes. Starfire maintains Lloyd's classification certification following its most recent special survey.Performance specifications include a 12-knot cruising speed and 15-knot maximum speed with fuel consumption of 64 gallons per hour. The vessel's design emphasizes crew functionality with dedicated workspaces and separate lounge/dining areas.The Starfire transaction represents continued activity in the secondary market for well-maintained superyachts with recent refit histories. Northrop & Johnson's involvement underscores the brokerage's presence in the 50-60 meter segment. Both yachts demonstrate the enduring value of robust engineering and periodic upgrades in maintaining vessel competitiveness across decades of service.Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. Benetti designs, builds and sells composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. The fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom to meet all the needs of the market. Benetti belongs to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Northrop & Johnson

The Italian Sea Group (TISG) has reported decreased financial performance for the first half of 2025, citing geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. Revenue declined 1.4% year-on-year to €186.8 million, while net profit fell 58% to €12.2 million, partly due to the absence of a capital gain from the 2024 Viareggio shipyard sale.CEO Giovanni Costantino attributed the results to "ongoing geopolitical and economic tensions," specifically noting U.S. protectionist policies as contributing factors. The company maintains an order backlog of €1.19 billion as of June 30, 2025, slightly down from €1.24 billion at year-end 2024.Key financial metrics include:EBITDA of €30.4 million (16.3% margin), down 6.3%EBIT of €25.6 million (13.7% margin), down 4.5%Net debt position of €63.2 millionThe group delivered four yachts during the period - three Admiral models (55m, 66m, 78m) and one 60m Perini Navi. Shipbuilding revenues increased 3% to €172.6 million, while refit revenues declined 52% to €10.9 million as the company prioritized new construction.TISG has revised full-year 2025 guidance, now projecting revenue between €350-370 million (down from €410-430 million) and EBITDA margin of 16.5-17.0% (previously 17.5-18.0%). The company secured €115 million in new long-term financing during the period to support operations.Upcoming projects include the debut of several flagship models at Monaco Yacht Show 2025, including the 72m Admiral Giorgio Armani and 60m Perini Navi sailing yacht. The group continues developing strategic partnerships with Armani and Lamborghini to strengthen its ultra-luxury positioning."Despite current challenges, we remain confident in our ability to finalize ongoing negotiations by year-end," stated Costantino. "Our design excellence and customized approach continue to differentiate our brands in the global market."The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters. Credit: The Italian Sea Group

The 40.6-meter explorer yacht ZeXplorer has been sold and renamed Arya in a transaction facilitated by Fraser Yachts. Marco Fodale of Fraser Monaco introduced the buyer, while Antoine X. Larricq from Fraser Monaco and George Bourgoignie from Fraser USA represented the seller in the deal.Originally built in 2013 by Newcastle Shipyards in Florida, the steel/aluminum expedition vessel underwent extensive refits between 2020-2023 that included a hull extension and complete mechanical system overhaul. The ice-classified yacht features exterior design by Sparkman & Stephens and interior styling by Oversee Yachts, with naval architecture developed through collaboration between Sparkman & Stephens and Boksa Marine Design.The 430 GT vessel accommodates 12 guests across six staterooms, including a full-beam master suite on the lower deck and a VIP stateroom on the bridge deck. Interior designer Christina Norris completed a comprehensive redecorating project in 2022, incorporating rich mahogany wood panels, white headliners, and light wool carpets over black oak floors. Large stormproof windows throughout provide abundant natural light in the main salon, dining area, and lower deck spaces.Recent technical upgrades included installation of new propulsion systems and modernized operational equipment, along with updated entertainment systems throughout the yacht. The refit also added Quantum zero speed stabilizers to ensure comfortable cruising in various sea conditions.Power comes from twin Caterpillar C32 engines that deliver a cruising speed of 10.5 knots and maximum speed of 13.5 knots. The yacht's robust construction includes an ice-strengthened steel hull designed for worldwide operation in all latitudes.Outdoor amenities feature multiple deck areas including an aft deck lounge, sun deck with hot tub and bar, and an expansive tender storage area capable of accommodating two 8-meter tenders plus additional water toys. The bridge deck includes a skylounge and dedicated fitness area.The vessel was listed at $10 million at the time of sale.Credits: Fraser

Lürssen has launched the 114-meter megayacht Cosmos, a hybrid vessel equipped with two 500 kW methanol fuel cells that enable emissions-free cruising for extended periods. The yacht, introduced as part of the company’s 150th anniversary, can travel up to 1,000 nautical miles on electricity alone and remain at anchor with zero emissions for up to 15 days.Commissioned by an undisclosed owner, Cosmos features an all-steel hull reinforced to Ice Class 1D, allowing navigation in polar waters as well as across all major oceans. Alongside its methanol-based hydrogen power system, the yacht is fitted with diesel generators, engines, and tanks to allow conventional propulsion for higher speeds.Designed inside and out by Marc Newson, the vessel has a beam of 18 metres (59 feet), a gross tonnage of 6,300, and spans six decks. The design incorporates extensive use of glass, including a custom-engineered glass-domed owner’s study offering 360-degree views, a surrounding sky terrace, and an observation lounge located beneath the helipad.Outdoor amenities include a main deck with a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, seating areas, and an aft dry dock for tender operations. The combination of ice-class construction, hybrid propulsion, and large-scale glazing represents Lürssen’s latest application of advanced engineering to meet evolving environmental and design goals.Credits: Lürssen

The NOA 46, a 46-meter motor yacht built by The Yacht Factory in Yalova, Turkey, will be presented for the first time at the Cannes Yachting Festival from 9 to 14 September. Ocean Independence has been appointed as Central Agent for the vessel.Designed by Hot Lab Yacht Design, the yacht is intended for long-range cruising and features a steel hull, aluminium superstructure, and compliance with RINA and MCA classifications. Accommodation is arranged for ten guests in five staterooms. The main salon connects directly to an al fresco lounge area with a large jacuzzi, while the sundeck includes a DJ booth, bar, and gym area.The interior uses predominantly brown and beige tones, with large windows providing natural light throughout. Power comes from twin MAN 1,450HP engines meeting IMO Tier III standards, giving a range of 4,000 nautical miles at 10 knots, a cruising speed of 13 knots, and a top speed of 15.7 knots. ABT TRAC fin stabilisers are fitted for stability underway and at anchor, and the yacht is equipped with Simrad navigation systems.The Yacht Factory operates on a 200,000-square-meter site with facilities including a floating dock for large yachts and a travel lift with an 800-ton capacity.Credits: Ocean Independence