Ocean Independence has announced the addition of Thanuja to its fleet after an extensive four-year refit. This 50-meter-long yacht, which began life as Grayzone, has undergone such a dramatic transformation that it is being hailed as the equivalent of a brand-new build. The refurbishment, carried out by a collaborative effort between several Hamburg-based firms, has prepared Thanuja for her debut charter season.
Originally built by Concept Marine in Turkey back in 2011, Grayzone arrived at Serenity Shipyard in Antalya in 2021 for what was intended to be a simple refit. However, the scope quickly expanded into a total overhaul. The yacht was dismantled down to its bare metal structure, and major changes followed. The stern and aft decks were extended, increasing the overall length from 43 to 50 meters, while the flybridge received substantial upgrades.
As a result of these modifications, the vessel's gross tonnage (GT) grew significantly—from 380 GT to 463 GT. These alterations were so profound that the classification society deemed them comparable to constructing a new yacht altogether. Renamed Thanuja, the yacht emerged from the shipyard with a fresh identity and vastly improved capabilities.
Main saloon
At the heart of this ambitious project stood the Hamburg-based yacht design and engineering firm iYacht GmbH. They developed the initial concept, handled the exterior design, and managed the naval architecture. Working within the constraints of the existing hull and prior design elements, they successfully adapted the vessel to meet the new owner's expectations while retaining some of its original character.
While the original plan called for minor cosmetic updates to the interiors, the project evolved into a comprehensive redesign under the guidance of Katharina Raczek Design, another Hamburg-based firm. Their team crafted a luxurious living environment capable of hosting up to ten guests across five elegant staterooms. Additionally, the crew quarters were enlarged to accommodate a staff of nine. Every aspect of the interior – from bespoke furniture and lighting to detailed decorations –was meticulously curated by Katharina Raczek Design.
Sky lounge
Stefan Zucker, founder of the consultancy Zucker & Partner, played a pivotal role in managing the project. His expertise ensured smooth coordination among various parties involved, resulting in a cohesive outcome. Furthermore, the owner contributed his own experienced project manager to ensure that every detail aligned with the vision.
Each deck aboard Thanuja offers unique spaces tailored for different moods and activities. Guests can relax in the shaded sanctuary of the main deck aft or enjoy panoramic views from the expansive upper deck, which boasts plush sofas, an al fresco dining area, and a barbecue setup. The sundeck invites guests to unwind with its hot tub, lounge chairs, and well-stocked bar, making it perfect for both daytime leisure and evening entertainment.
Owner cabin
In addition to the aesthetic improvements, Thanuja underwent a thorough technical revamp. All electrical systems, wiring, and pipework were replaced, and the engine room was upgraded with state-of-the-art components. Powered by twin MAN engines equipped with SCR units, the yacht meets the strictest environmental standards set by IMO Tier III regulations. Advanced bow and stern thrusters further enhance her maneuverability.
With her combination of luxury, performance, and versatility, Thanuja is primed for success in the competitive charter market. Adelheid Chirco, Central Agent at Ocean Independence, expressed confidence in the yacht's appeal, highlighting its ideal size and stunning amenities. Starting at EUR210,000 per week, Thanuja will be available for charters in the Mediterranean, promising unforgettable experiences for her future guests.
Credits: Ocean Independence
The 56th Southampton International Boat Show will introduce several new features when it returns to Mayflower Park from September 19-28, 2025. Organizers British Marine confirmed a redesigned layout with specialized zones including The Powerhub for powerboats and Angler's Alley for fishing enthusiasts.New additions include: the Boating Academy offering educational sessions, waterside Lounge for premium ticket holders, expanded marina area with grouped vessel displays, on the Water stage featuring high-speed demonstrations. Visitor experiences will include the Try A Boat program with FlexiSail and accessible powerboat rides through Wetwheels. The Shipyard festival area will host live music and family activities, with a headline act to be announced.Ticket prices currently start at £24.99 for adults, with free entry for two children per adult ticket. Marina space remains in high demand among exhibitors, with increased berth capacity for 2025."The 2025 edition represents an exciting transformation," stated British Marine representatives. The event will showcase products ranging from paddleboards to superyachts, though exhibitor lists remain unconfirmed.British Marine, representing over 1,300 UK marine businesses, organizes the annual show which supports an industry employing 38,000 nationwide.Credits: Southampton International Boat Show
April 29, 2025
The General Council of Confindustria Nautica has designated Piero Formenti, owner of Zar Formenti, as President of the Italian Marine Industry Association for the 2025-2029 term. The appointment will be formally ratified at the association's general meeting on May 16 during the SATEC Convention in Rapallo.Formenti becomes the first president representing the small boating sector in the association's history. The selection process saw 79.04% member participation with 94.64% approval votes.Piero FormentiSince founding Zar Formenti in 1979, specializing in inflatable boats, Formenti has served as association director since 2008 and vice president since 2019. He currently holds the position of vice-chair at European Boating Industry (EBI), having previously served two terms as president (2015-2019)."My experience provides a unified vision of the industry," Formenti stated. "Coming from the small boating segment demonstrates our sector's maturity as we address innovation, green economy, domestic market revival, regulatory simplification, and next-generation engagement during challenging economic conditions for small manufacturers."The appointment follows standard association statutes and Confederation of Industry regulations.Credits: Italian Marine Industry Association
April 29, 2025
Nautor Swan will present five maxi yachts at the Palma International Boat Show (April 30-May 3) while its new ClubSwan 43 makes its racing debut at the concurrent PalmaVela regatta. The Finnish builder's display includes the Swan 108 Fancy as centerpiece, alongside Swan 98s Drifter Cube and Alix, Swan 90 Berenice Cube, and Swan 78 Sulita in Port Vell's Superyacht Village.The 33.5-meter Fancy features quarter-cut oak interiors with light brown finishes, accommodating owners and guests across four en-suite cabins plus crew quarters. Three new Swan models (80, 108, 128) remain in development.At PalmaVela, the ClubSwan 43 Vargen will compete in ORC-rated races while maintaining one-design specifications for the brand's racing circuit. Over 110 vessels are participating in the regatta hosted by Real Club Náutico."We're approaching Palma with strong dedication," said Nautor Swan CEO Giovanni Pomati. "This show is becoming one of the most important, thanks to top shipyards and passionate owners." ClubSwan Yachts head Federico Michetti noted: "These are the first races for the ClubSwan 43 under rating rules, and we're continuing its fine-tuning for competitive performance."Nautor Swan was founded in 1966 in Pietarsaari, Finland. The builder entered the superyacht market in 1999. Since then, the yard has continued building high-performance sailing yachts in three different lines; ClubSwan, Swan Yachts and Maxi Swan Yachts. Credits: Nautor Swan
April 29, 2025
Dutch shipyard Vitters has signed a contract to build the 63-meter sailing yacht Project Dreamer, with construction set to begin this year at its Zwartsluis facility. The aluminum-hulled vessel, designed to maximize volume within a 500GT limit, is scheduled for delivery in 2028.Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design will handle the exterior styling, which features a radiused transom and an expansive flybridge spanning the full superstructure width with dedicated lounge and dining areas. The design incorporates a mid-lazarette with fold-down hull door for water toy deployment.Milan-based M2Atelier will develop interior spaces characterized by open layouts, natural materials, and botanical elements. Owner's representative Greg Monks stated the project will "set new standards" for flybridge yachts, emphasizing reduced noise/vibration and sustainable operation.Vitters has not disclosed technical specifications, though the yard confirmed construction will adhere to the client's request for optimized interior volume within the 500GT threshold. Additional details will be released during the build process.Vitters Shipyard is a Dutch high-end performance yacht builder. The shipyard was founded in 1990 by Jan Vitters. The company delivered the first luxury sailing boat, the 28m Aphrodite, in 1993. Vitters Shipyard has a crew of dedicated engineers and craftspeople who have a strong eye for detail and the passion to exceed the expectations of its yacht owners. Credits: Vitters
April 28, 2025
Videoworks has completed an innovative audio-visual and connectivity installation aboard Custom Line Navetta 38 Telli, the new yacht owned by Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi. The system eliminates traditional satellite TV (TVRO) in favor of a fully streaming-based approach, marking a technological milestone for yachts in this size category.The setup includes high-performance Starlink maritime antennas delivering speeds up to 220 Mbps, supported by dual 5G modems as backup. "The owner requested very fast Starlink connectivity offering streaming, internet and multiple pay-per-view services," said Giovanni Varone, Yachting Sales Manager at Videoworks. "This is the first time we’ve installed such advanced systems on a project of this size."Audio features K-array and James loudspeakers for exterior areas, while interior spaces utilize Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound Theatre soundbar and Beolab 19 subwoofer. A custom pop-up speaker system was developed for the beach area, integrated with Videoworks’ Slim Audio Matrix for automatic calibration.Beolab 19Control is managed via an HTML5-based web engine, adapting dynamically to tablets, smartphones, and PCs. Hardware is consolidated into two centralized racks and a dedicated decoder distribution unit."This yacht represents the future of onboard connectivity," said Paolo Tagliapietra, Connectivity Solutions Manager at Videoworks. "The complete reliance on streaming is a game-changer for the industry."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 28, 2025