Dutch shipyard Heesen has announced that the latest project in the 55-metre FDHF Steel class series has been sold. The vessel referred to as Project Castor is currently under construction at Oss facility.
Rupert Connor from Luxury Yacht Group introduced the client, working closely both with Thom Conboy from Heesen US office and with the team at the shipyard in Oss. According to the yard, the U.S. office based in the Fort Lauderdalehas overseen six of the last 10 yachts sale deals by Heesen.
The client, one of the most experienced American superyacht owners, admires the large volume offered by the 55m FDHF Steel class. With her interior volume of 760GT, Project Castor is the most voluminous 55-metre currently offered by a Northern European shipyard.
Project Castor features exterior lines by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects, while her interiors come from the boards of design studio Bannenerg & Rowell, marking their eighth collaboration with Heesen.
Frank Laupman has given the exterior lines muscular overtones, though integrated into the traditional Heesen sleek look. The design is efficient and rational, with such iconic elements as the vertical floor-to-ceiling windows in the forward section of the main deck as well as full height windows in the main saloon and skylounge, open bulwarks, and the “shark tooth” on the overhang of the superstructure.
Besides efficiency and low resistance, the 55m Steel FDHF provides fantastic comfort, and thanks to the large stabiliser fins by Naiad – installed forward of centre – this includes exceptional roll reduction at anchor. Another advantage of a slippery hull is that it can be powered by smaller engines, decreasing the engine power with many benefits – in particular, increased space and reduced noise. Two MTU 8V 4000 M63 main engines allow Castor to reach a maximum speed of 15.5 knots. She will have an impressive transatlantic range of 4,500 nautical miles at a cruise speed of 13 knots.
Castor is the fourth yacht in the 55-metre Steel Class, next to its first unit, Azamanta, that became the world’s first Fast Displacement steel-hulled super yacht over 50 metres, Laurentia delivered in 2017 and Vida delivered earlier this month.
Still, she features some innovations from her predecessors: a full-beam sky lounge, a larger master stateroom now measuring 73 square meters, and larger lower deck suites as the VIP has been moved to the bridge deck. Her contemporary Bannenberg & Rowell interior, which features signature woods and natural stones, draws on a subtle but warm colour palette which maximises the sense of airiness delivered by the generous interior spaces and the natural light flooding in from the floor-to-ceiling windows
The vessel is due for delivery in May 2020, after extensive sea trials in the North Sea. Furthermore, a sister ship to the fleet is currently is in build at Heesen, available for delivery in autumn 2020.
Construction is underway at the Mallorca-based shipyard of Servicios Técnicos Portuarios (STP), marking the start of an €8 million initiative aimed at modernising the facility to accommodate some of the largest vessels in the fleet for refitting and maintenance.To address the growing demand for large yacht services, STP's expansion aims to elevate productivity and streamline operations while expanding the shipyard's capabilities. “We have frequently received requests for mooring spaces for yachts exceeding 100 meters in length, and until now, we have struggled to meet that demand,” stated Joan Rosselló, general manager of STP. “With limited options for large berths in Palma, the new dedicated berths will significantly enhance our repair services and improve workflow across shipyard activities.”This major expansion is poised to invigorate Mallorca's local economy, drawing more significant refit projects to the area. STP estimates that the expansion could generate an additional €50 to €60 million in annual revenue for the region.On the technical side, the shipyard's total area will grow from 130,000 square meters to 162,000 square meters, incorporating 102,000 square meters of land and 60,000 square meters of water space. This enhancement utilizes previously underutilised areas at the edges of the current shipyard footprint, facilitating further development within STP’s existing concession.The waterway expansion will introduce five new berths that can accommodate yachts of up to 110 meters, adding to the existing three superyacht berths. On dry land, STP plans to establish specialized zones for various tasks, including a new covered section specifically for mast removal, repair, and painting.Additionally, STP is prioritising sustainability by installing photovoltaic panels on the new covered areas and the parking canopies. The anticipated solar energy output is expected to power approximately 115 apartments and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 124 tonnes annually.The new berths will be operational by the end of 2024, while the rest of the works are scheduled for completion in spring 2025.Credits: STP
November 1, 2024
Royal Huisman announces that its impressive 59.7m high-performance sloop, Sarissa, has triumphed in three categories at the ISS Awards Gala held in Fort Lauderdale. The awards were determined and presented by esteemed peers within the superyacht industry, making this recognition particularly significant for the team.Sarissa has been honored with the titles of “Yacht of the Year,” “Best Interior Sail,” and “Best in Sail 40m+” at the International Superyacht Society Awards.Sarissa stands out for its state-of-the-art technology, exceptional naval architecture, and distinctive design, showcasing Royal Huisman’s commitment to innovation and excellence. Constructed using lightweight Alustar® aluminum and carbon composites, Sarissa not only minimizes fuel consumption but also enhances speed and maneuverability. Its forward-facing retractable propulsion system further enhances performance, reliability, and comfort, aligning with the industry's shift toward sustainability. Developed in collaboration with Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design, interior designer Liaigre, and owners’ representative Gregory Monks, Sarissa beautifully marries elegance with functionality, fulfilling the owner’s goal of an environmentally conscious yet high-performance superyacht.Congratulations are extended to the owners of Sarissa, along with heartfelt thanks from the design and build team. Jan Timmerman, CEO of Royal Huisman, states: “On behalf of our team, I would like to express our happiness and honor in receiving these awards. However, while we appreciate this recognition, we remain focused on our future projects, and we understand that a shipyard is only as strong as its next creation."Earlier this year, Sarissa was recognized as "Sailing Yacht of the Year" and "Best Sailing Yacht of 40m and Above" at the World Superyacht Awards 2024. She also garnered five significant awards at Boat International’s Design & Innovation Awards, including "Innovation of the Year."Royal Huisman is a Dutch shipyard established in 1884 in Ronduite, building and refitting custom luxury sailing and motor yachts at its shipyard in Vollenhove, the Netherlands.Credits: Royal Huisman
November 1, 2024
Italian yacht manufacturer AB Yachts has introduced an exciting addition to its lineup – the AB95, showcased at this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Designed by Marco Casamonti from Archea Associati, this 28.9-meter vessel is available in two distinct versions.AB95The first variant draws inspiration from its larger counterpart, the AB110, maintaining the brand's signature sporty character while enhancing onboard livability. This is especially evident in the flybridge, which features reverse glazing along the yacht's profile, creating bright and airy interiors with stunning sea views. Access to this space is seamlessly integrated through two external staircases leading from the aft deck.The second variant, known as the AB95 S, targets thrill-seeking owners with a focus on a more aggressive, "racing car" aesthetic. This model boasts sleek lines, a convertible roof, and a state-of-the-art propulsion system designed to deliver exceptional speed and performance.AB95 SBoth versions of the AB95 are engineered for smooth, vibration-free cruising and feature a draught of four metres, along with customizable "loft-like" interior spaces to suit individual tastes.Italian shipyard AB Yachts was founded in 1992. In 2001, AB Yachts was acquired by the Fipa Group. Today Next Yacht Group is the owner of the historic Maiora, AB Yachts, and CBI Navi brands. AB Yachts range consists of semi-displacement yachts from 17.70 to 42 meters.Credits: AB Yachts
November 1, 2024
FARO Alternative Investments, through its Real Economy sub-fund and in collaboration with advisory firm Orienta Capital Partners, has finalized the acquisition of Sunseeker International (Holdings) Ltd., a prestigious British shipyard celebrated for its production of high-performance luxury motor yachts. The acquisition marks the transfer of ownership from the Chinese industrial giant Dalian Wanda Group.94 Yacht The acquisition of 100% of Sunseeker is a significant milestone for FARO Alternative Investments, an innovative platform focused on creating value through a unique ecosystem of expertise and networking for investors and stakeholders. The transaction was supported by Miami-based investment firm Lionheart Capital alongside a club deal orchestrated by Orienta Capital Partners.Located in Poole, Dorset, Sunseeker has over five decades of experience in crafting top-tier yachts and is widely recognized as a pioneer in the luxury yachting industry. The shipyard generated approximately £320 million in sales in FY 2023, primarily from yachts measuring between 15 and 50 meters. Sunseeker currently boasts an order book valued at around £540 million (€640 million) and is set to expand its offerings by focusing on the development of high-end superyachts.Predator55Giancarlo Galeone, Chairman of FARO Value and lead advisor for FARO Alternative Investments SCSp SICAV RAIF, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “We are thrilled to embark on this new chapter alongside Sunseeker. Our established expertise in the nautical sector, paired with our longstanding relationship with the CEO, will further enhance the shipyard’s identity and craftsmanship, steering the brand towards our ambitious growth objectives. Sunseeker will maintain its British identity, continuing operations from its headquarters in Poole, where its production, workforce, and infrastructure are based.”Predator55Andrea Frabetti, CEO of Sunseeker, expressed confidence in the new ownership structure, stating, “We are confident that through this new ownership structure, Sunseeker will be able to grow and reach new milestones. Our goal will remain to build exceptional yachts that embody luxury, performance, and innovation, while honoring the legacy and vision of our founders.”FARO Alternative Investments SICAV RAIF (“FARO”) is an alternative investment fund operating through a globally active scalable platform with diversified strategies, mainly in Private Equity and Venture Capital. Orienta Capital Partners is an investment firm based in Milan, Forlì and Reggio Emilia, specializing in cross-industry transaction as lead investors, focusing on high-growth potential SMEs.Credits: Sunseeker
October 31, 2024
Sirena Yachts has unveiled exciting new details about its latest project, the Sirena 118, at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2024. This striking 36-meter GRP superyacht introduces a contemporary design and represents the launch of a new, larger composite line, boasting a waterline length exceeding 24 meters while remaining under 300 gross tons.The design is currently in the works, featuring a flexible tri-deck layout that includes three decks of accommodation topped by an expansive sun deck. Future amenities could include an optional circular pool and lounging area at the bow, as well as a spacious beach club at the rear.The Sirena 118’s bold plumb bow not only makes a strong aesthetic statement but also enhances the internal volume, providing ample room for a VIP cabin and up to four guest cabins on the lower deck. The owner’s stateroom occupies the forward section of the main deck and offers a unique option to span two decks, complete with a spiral staircase leading to a generous relaxation area and a fold-down swim platform for easy access to the water.Social spaces are equally impressive, featuring an informal dining and lounging area on the main deck aft with floor-to-ceiling windows facilitating a seamless connection to the outdoor deck. The upper deck provides additional dining options alongside a wet bar, complemented by a more secluded exterior space. The yacht is designed for a crew of five, with the possibility of expanding to seven with the inclusion of a captain's cabin on the upper deck.The sleek underwater profile is crafted by the renowned German Frers, while the yacht's exterior design comes from Sirena's in-house team, encapsulating the brand’s essence. Cor D Rover is in charge of the interior, which will possess a timeless and relaxed ambiance, although owners will have the option to customize their yacht to their preferences.Constructed from GRP, the Sirena 118 promises operational efficiency. It features a fast displacement hull powered by two MAN V12 engines generating a total of 3,100hp, allowing for a top speed of 16 knots and an economical cruising speed of 11 knots. An upgraded engine package producing 3,800hp is also available, which offers a top speed of 21 knots.“The 36-meter Sirena 118 will be the largest GRP yacht we have built to date,” stated Constantinos K. Constantinou, Head of Sirena Yachts USA. “This superyacht is being meticulously crafted to embody the pinnacle of the values that have driven the global success of Sirena Yachts and Sirena Superyachts. Intelligent design, flawless engineering, and sleek, modern aesthetics are seamlessly integrated with our profound passion for the yachting lifestyle. We’re excited to keep yachting enthusiasts informed as this exceptional project progresses toward its 2026 completion.”Sirena Yachts is a Turkish yacht brand. The company produces semi-displacement motor yachts ranging from 17m to over 30m.Credit: Sirena Yachts
October 31, 2024