Heesen is proud to announce the delivery of 51-metre full-custom motor yacht YN 18151 Irisha following extensive sea trials in the North Sea. This unique yacht was sold by SuperYachtsMonaco who represented the commercial interest of the owner throughout the build.
Irisha’s unique exterior lines and interior are by Harrison Eidsgaard. This full-custom yacht incorporates elements of Heesen’s DNA: she is a full-aluminium, semi-displacement motor yacht below the 500GT threshold that allows for fast cruising.
Photo : Dick Holthuis
The owner’s brief called for a yacht that had to be unique in its looks. The proven engineering platform of the 5000 Aluminium class offered the perfect opportunity to give carte blanche to the designers to create a radical profile and to deliver the safety of a proven and efficient hard-chine hull: the best of both worlds!
Powered by two MTU 16V 4000 M93L diesel engines, Irisha exceeded expectations during the sea trials by achieving a top speed of 26.1 knots and a transatlantic range of over 3,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 11 knots.
Photo : Dick Holthuis
The Harrison Eidsgaard team devised innovative exterior lines enhanced by the extensive use of double curved glazed glass that gives the yacht the appearance of a fighter jet. The unique colour scheme enriches the beauty of the profile. The top is Snow White, the main deck is Midnight Blue by Awlgrip, and the hull is metallic Pacific Blue custom paint by Alexseal. In sunlight, the hull colour changes from metallic blue to dark olive-green hues.
The fixed aft platform is another key element of the design, facilitating easy and quick tender boarding when the transom door is closed.
Photo : Dick Holthuis
The interior design is inviting and relaxing with a neutral palette of beige, grey and blue. Walls and surfaces are covered with textured materials that catch and reflect the light in different ways creating a sense of warm luxury throughout the yacht. The architecture of the interior is emphasised by the accurate light design. Four different settings are conceived to draw the eye to the architectural and design elements, harmonising the design of each room, and creating different atmospheres at the touch of a button. Irisha accommodates ten guests and nine crew.
Photo : Dick Holthuis
The interior layout offers a high degree of versatility and is conceived to meet the need for formal and large receptions, as well as intimate areas for the daily family life on board.
Photo : Dick Holthuis
The main deck is dedicated to the formal reception and is characterised by a connection between indoor and outdoor. Sliding glass doors protect the aft deck which becomes a ‘winter garden’. This delightful indoor-outdoor living room is air-conditioned and can be fully enjoyed even late in the season. Once the doors between the ‘winter garden’ and the dining saloon are open, guests can enjoy a stunning 8-metre long saloon, ideal for formal banquets thanks to an extendable imperial dining table that seats from 14 up to an impressive 22 guests. A generous pantry enables the crew to deliver five-star service.
Photo : Waterline Media
Set forward on the main deck, the owner’s stateroom is accessed via the private study furnished with an exquisite cantilevered, custom-designed desk. Plenty of natural light floods the work space thanks to two large windows. A French balcony with sliding glass doors draws fresh air into the bedroom. The bedhead is a hand-felted silk artwork by Claudy Jongstra. His and hers walk-in dressing rooms with wash basins lead into the shared bathroom, with a central freestanding wengé bathtub and double therapy shower.
Photo : Waterline Media
The staircase in the grandiose atrium featuring curved glass and DKT custom artwork panels is the architectural masterpiece on board Irisha. The double curved staircase is not only a beautiful design feature, but also a cleverly engineered piece of art that connects the three decks.
The guest suites are located on the lower deck. Two doubles and two twins, with the option of converting the twins into a double. The twin rooms, thanks to a sliding partition, can be transformed into a full-beam VIP suite with double bed and sofa corner.
The upper deck features floor-to-ceiling structural glass that allows plenty of natural light to flood the interior. The sky lounge is equipped with a cinema screen and projector located opposite the U-shaped lounge sofa and armchairs and is served by a wet bar. A built-in lounge chair next to the large window is the perfect spot for reading and relaxing with breathtaking views. The terrace on the upper deck aft is conceived for informal dining and complemented by a comfortable built-in seating area located aft.
The ‘pièce de résistance’ is without doubt the raised pilot house whose futuristic design gives the cockpit the look of a fighter jet. The floating console and seats with carbon-fibre backrests catch the eye in this ultra-contemporary space.
The 13-metre long sun deck boasts a sunbathing area aft of the hot tub and an adjacent seating area with an adjustable dining table for informal dining, while forward there is a bar with high stools (serviced by a dumb waiter).
Photo : Waterline Media
Forward on the main deck, a built-in settee is protected by a hydraulically driven canopy that creates a wind-sheltered outdoor space ideal for relaxing in privacy. More forward, in the bow a second seating area is the ideal place for admiring the views.
A wellness area, complete with sauna and massage table is located in the beach club.
Photo : Waterline Media
Irisha is available for charter in the Mediterranean via SuperYachtsMonaco starting from € 280,000 and will make her official début at the Monaco Yacht Show in September 2018. Irisha is available for charter here.
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