The 2019 has made a significant impact on the yachting industry not only through multiple megayachts delivered during the year, but also with several yacht losses. Yacht Harbour recalls some of the most striking episodes causing yacht losses in 2019.
#1. 40m Baltic sailing yacht My Song falls from cargo ship
On May 25, the sailing superyacht My Song from Baltic 130 line fell from the cargo ship that was carrying her across the Atlantic, from the Caribbean to the Balearics. The vessel was hauled out to Palma de Mallorca, ahead of her owner's confirmation of being 'not salvageable’.
Yacht transport company Peters & May that was responsible for the transportation, released an official statement in response, claiming that My Song might have fallen due to the collapse of her cradle. Photographs and videos taken showed extensive damage to the yacht, with several holes in the hull.
The winner of last year's Loro Piana Rehatta, My Song’s crew set a new speed record during the RORC Transatlantic Race last December. The journey of 3,000 nautical miles from the Canary Islands to Grenada took 10 days, 5 hours, 47 minutes and 11 seconds for the crew — almost 1 hour and 20 minutes less than the previous record of 2015. Sails, rising on the 56-metre mast, accelerated My Song to 30 knots.
#2. Hurricane Dorian
Photo: Reuters
The devastating Hurricane Dorian that had hit the North of the Bahamas this September, has been already called one of the strongest Atlantic storms in history. The strongest wind blows of up to 82.5 m/s were taken by the Islands of Abaco and the Island of Grand Bahama, bearing reported death toll of 70, with 282 people still missing.
The US NATIONAL Hurricane Tracking Center assigned Dorian the highest fifth category, Catastrophic. It has caused significant damages to homes, businesses and other buildings and marine infrastructure. Media sources report, the reconstruction of such ports as Marsh Harbour will run into billions of dollars.
The pictures of the disaster meanwhile show numerous yachts and other craft driven ashore through the storm. Only Marsh Harbour had nearly 30 boats based there at the time of storm, with not all of them being moved in time.
On November 16th, properties at Fort Lauderdale went on fire, leading to destruction of two superyachts, the 49-metre Lohengrin and 32.6-metre Reflections. According to Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, the estimated loss from the fire amounts to over $20 million representing “the biggest fire loss in Fort Lauderdale history”.
The city fire marshal reported, the fire broke out in the morning, with loud explosions waking up residents. Allegedly, the blaze started on-board Lohengrin and spread to a neighbouring Reflections. It is understood that the two yachts were under maintenance and refit work at the time of the fire.
Reportedly, around 100 firefighters from several agencies were called out to the blaze. Many cellphone videos spread on social media witnessed flames going out, with huge plumes of smoke in the air. However, the fire brigade managed to bring it under control.
#4. 55m superyacht Lady D totally burnt down in Thailand
Photo by Achadtaya Chuenriran
In the early hours of August 7, the 56.39-metre superyacht Lady D, anchored at Phuket Grand Marina, Thailand, caught fire. All crew members left the ship safely but the vessel totally burnt down.
According to the report of the municipal mayor of Paklok, the fire started at the stern of Lady D, quickly spreading over the upper floors despite the crew’s attempts to stop it using fire extinguishers.
From the pictures, it seems that the damage done by the fire is beyond repair, and the owner and the insurance might decide to send it to scrap. Meanwhile, Phuket Marine Office Chief Wiwat Chitchertwong told the media, the value of the damage done would amount to nearly B240 million, or $7.8 billion, according to what they had heard from the marina.
#5. 34-metre yacht D'Angleterre burnt down in the Mediterranean Sea
The fire on-board the 34-metre yacht D'Angleterre occurred on August 24 off the coast of Mallorca in Spain. At the time of the fire, 15 people were on board, all of them were rescued. Multiple photos and videos of the fire depict the back of the yacht blazing with fire, and thick clouds of black smoke rising into the sky.
#6. 29m sailing yacht Asia sunk in Indonesian waters
On November 22, the 29-metre sailing yacht Asia with 4 crew members on board sank 50 miles off Indonesian coast. Reportedly, the vessel hit an undefined object in the water. The crew had managed to sail a lifeboat to land, where they were found undamaged marine police 8 hours later.
Asia was designed by Don Brooke and built by Culham Engineering in 2009. With a beam of 7.5 metres and a draft of 3 metres, she has a steel hull and aluminium superstructure. Her interior volumes of 135 GT enables accommodation of 10 guests across 5 cabins. The yacht is powered by Gardner engines to a maximum speed of 12 knots and a cruising speed of 8 knots.
The vessel was listed for sale with Fraser asking $2,900,000. On November 23, she was withdrawn from the market.
#7. The 1883-built sailing ship Elbe No 5 sinks near Hamburg
A 36.8-metre wooden sailboat Elbe No. 5 just launched after restoration, sank on the Elbe River near Hamburg, Germany. The vessel collided with a 142-metre Astrosprinter dry cargo ship flying the flag of Cyprus on June 9, according to CNN.
Despite quick evacuation via rescue boats, several people of the 43 (including 14 crew members) on-board the vessel were injured in the collision and taken to local hospitals. The causes of the incident were being investigated.
The 49.9-meter motor yacht Tsumat, built by Trinity Yachts, has been sold after a substantial price reduction of USD9 million. Frank Grzeszczak Sr. of FGI Yacht Group represented the seller, while Yannis Zagorakis of Hargrave Yachts acted on behalf of the buyer. The sale follows Tsumat’s prominent display at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), where the adjusted asking price drew considerable attention.Delivered in 2012 by the U.S.-based Trinity Yachts, Tsumat features an aluminum hull and superstructure. The yacht’s design was helmed by Geoff Van Aller, with interiors crafted by Ramon Alonso. A comprehensive, multi-million-dollar refit in 2023 brought modern updates to the vessel, enhancing her appeal on the market. Notably, Tsumat is the last yacht from Trinity’s 164 range, a hallmark of the shipyard’s craftsmanship.The 499GT yacht accommodates 12 guests in six cabins, including a master suite, VIP cabin, three double cabins, and one twin cabin. Crew quarters are available for 10 personnel. Unique design features include lattice woodwork incorporated into the deckheads, extending the aesthetic into both interior spaces and exterior deck overhangs.ABS-classed and powered by twin 3,384hp Caterpillar diesel engines, Tsumat achieves a top speed of 23 knots and a cruising speed of 18 knots, with a range of 3,000 nautical miles.Tsumat's last known asking price was USD17,499,000.Credits: FGI Yacht Group
January 10, 2025
Vitters Shipyard has announced the launch of its latest creation, the 44-meter sailing yacht Magic. A collaborative effort between the Dutch shipyard and a team of renowned designers and engineers, Magic represents a significant milestone in modern yacht building. Naval architecture was handled by Reichel/Pugh, with interior design by Design Unlimited and styling by Pieter Laureys.The yacht first emerged from the construction shed in Zwartsluis, Netherlands, on January 3, after 30 months of meticulous construction. Her sleek, modern design stood in stark contrast to the tranquil green fields and the charming village setting. On January 7, Magic was launched into the cold waters of Amsterdam, marking a pivotal moment in her journey. Her 62-meter Southern Spars rig was stepped on January 8, completing the yacht’s striking silhouette. Commissioning and sea trials are scheduled to take place in Amsterdam ahead of her February 2025 delivery.Magic is a contemporary cruising sloop designed with dynamic lines and an emphasis on both performance and comfort. Measuring 44 meters in length and with a beam of 9.66 meters, she accommodates 10 guests in luxury, supported by a crew of seven. Her fixed keel allows for a draft of 4.8 meters, while her innovative design incorporates features such as a covered cockpit for all-weather protection and a spacious aft deck for relaxation. The transom hatch opens to reveal a convertible beach club, offering seamless access to the water.Powered by a conventional drivetrain with a controllable-pitch propeller, Magic also includes a battery bank capable of providing silent operation for up to eight hours. All winches, furlers, tensioners, and other sail-handling equipment are hydraulically powered by systems engineered and built in-house by Vitters. To maintain a clean bow and foredeck, Magic employs two submarine anchors, further enhancing her streamlined aesthetic.The yacht’s interior is a showcase of craftsmanship by List, featuring a modern design that flows harmoniously from the full-beam master cabin aft to the forward crew quarters. High-quality materials and thoughtful detailing ensure a seamless blend of elegance and practicality throughout.After delivery, Magic is set to head to the Mediterranean for her maiden voyages. Notably, her current owner has listed her for sale, with Burgess acting as the Central Agent, represented by Eleonora Pitasso. 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
January 9, 2025
Tankoa Yachts has introduced its latest full-custom superyacht, Diamond Binta, at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show. This 58-meter vessel, signed in 2021 and delivered in the summer of 2024, represents a significant evolution in the Italian shipyard’s boutique approach to yacht building. Designed for long-range cruising, Diamond Binta combines Tankoa’s technical expertise with the refined aesthetic vision of Francesco Paszkowski Design Studio.The owner of Diamond Binta, a returning client of Tankoa, sought to expand on their previous experience with the 50-meter S501 Binta d’Or. The goal was to create a larger yacht tailored to their lifestyle, offering a distinctive style, advanced functionality, and long-range capabilities. Guided by Tankoa’s commitment to customization, the shipyard collaborated closely with the owner and the design team, ensuring every detail reflected their vision.The yacht features modern amenities such as a spacious beach club with seating, a treatment room illuminated by glass walls and skylights, and a top-deck gym with panoramic views. A helipad on the upper deck, a nine-meter tender garage, and a main-deck master suite with a private drop-down terrace showcase the yacht’s luxurious functionality.Interior highlights include extensive use of oak in various finishes, a neutral color palette, and bespoke furniture. Materials such as leather, metal, and marble enrich the décor, with custom-designed pieces complementing high-end furnishings from Minotti and Poltrona Frau. Unique design elements include curved ceilings with integrated LED lighting, asymmetrical motifs in carpets and cabinetry, and rounded furniture forms that create a cohesive, modern aesthetic.The lower deck features an innovative corridor with panoramic windows into the engine room, demonstrating the owner’s passion for engineering. Five guest cabins, including two with Pullman beds, accommodate up to 12 guests, while the full-beam master suite includes a lounge, study, and spa-like ensuite bathroom.According to Tankoa CEO Vincenzo Poerio, Diamond Binta embodies the shipyard’s ability to “realize and enhance the dreams of an owner.” The yacht’s maiden voyage will take her to the United States, where she will debut at the 2025 Palm Beach International Boat Show, showcasing her blend of craftsmanship, innovation, and luxury.Tankoa was founded in 2007 and began production in 2008. A true “boutique shipyard”, focused on building semi-custom and custom constructions 45-meter and up.Credits: Tankoa
January 9, 2025
Lomac Milano has announced the launch of “Lomac Atelier powered by D-Factory,” a groundbreaking customization service aimed at offering an unparalleled level of personalization for rigid inflatable boats (RIBs). The service, unveiled at Boot Düsseldorf 2025, brings together Lomac’s expertise in high-performance boat manufacturing and D-Factory’s skills in bespoke design and surface finishing, opening a new chapter in tailored luxury for boating enthusiasts.Central to the announcement is the debut of the Odyssey, a show-RIB based on Lomac’s iconic Adrenalina 8.5 model. The Odyssey demonstrates the extent of Lomac Atelier’s customization potential. Its design, inspired by Penelope from Greek mythology, serves as a creative provocation, encouraging visitors to imagine how far their ideas can shape their own vessels.Lomac Atelier allows clients to personalize nearly every element of their RIBs, from tube colors to dashboard finishes and from upholstery textures to T-top designs. Each detail can be tailored to suit individual tastes and preferences. D-Factory, a recognized name in automotive design and an official partner of Audi and Porsche, contributes its advanced technology, offering premium wraps and regenerative Paint Protection Film (PPF). This film not only protects fiberglass surfaces from UV rays and wear but also enhances their appearance, ensuring long-term durability.Beyond exterior finishes, D-Factory brings customization to upholstery, incorporating unique designs, shapes, and stitching that add refinement to interiors. Clients can expect a seamless blend of cutting-edge technology and luxury craftsmanship, ensuring their vessels are as unique as they are functional.The partnership signals a shift in the boating sector, introducing a level of personalization traditionally associated with luxury cars. Lomac Atelier promises to create high-performance RIBs that meet the demands of avid boaters while offering an aesthetic appeal akin to customized vehicles. By combining Lomac’s technical expertise with D-Factory’s design innovations, the collaboration aims to set a new standard for bespoke boats.The Odyssey stands as a vivid example of this potential, presenting bold choices in design and functionality. Visitors at Boot Düsseldorf are encouraged to use this prototype as inspiration, imagining how they might craft their own vessels. With Lomac Atelier powered by D-Factory, the boundaries of creativity are virtually limitless, offering clients the chance to make a bold statement with a truly one-of-a-kind RIB.Lomac was founded in the early 1960s in Milan. Today it is led by Paolo and Fabrizio Lo Manto, the third generation of the family, and offers a production that includes seven different series for 58 models, the result of the union of the highest technologies with careful craftsmanship. Lomac also produces and markets a wide range of original accessories to better customize your boat, and maintenance products created specifically for its models.Credits: Lomac
January 9, 2025
Ocean Independence has unveiled the Mishi 102, the new flagship of Mishi Yachts' sailing range, designed to deliver exceptional experiences for families and friends. The 31-meter sailing superyacht, presented at the Monaco Yacht Show 2024, is available for sale at EUR10.7 million.The Mishi 102 builds on the success of its predecessor, the Mishi 88, offering expanded space and enhanced performance. Ocean Independence broker Lukas Stratmann emphasized the yacht's design as a "natural next step," blending reliability and sailing prowess with the luxury expected of a superyacht.In the competitive 30-33m sailing yacht market, the Mishi 102 distinguishes itself with advanced blue-water sailing capabilities, elegant design, and a competitive price point. “It’s a head-turner that combines comfort, elegance, and speed,” said Stratmann.The yacht offers a spacious deck house and thoughtful interiors designed by Taka Yacht Design and Atilla Eren. It features a large saloon, a versatile galley, and accommodations for up to eight guests, including a luxurious owner’s cabin.Built by the Istanbul-based family-run shipyard, Mishi Yachts, the Mishi 102 reflects decades of craftsmanship, advanced technology, and a commitment to client collaboration. It targets ocean enthusiasts seeking elegant and reliable vessels for exploration.Founded in 1986, Yonca Shipyard aimed to lead in fast boat design and advanced composites. Despite doubts, handcrafted boats reflected our vision. Now an industrial-scale enterprise, the shipyard produces cutting-edge pleasure, commercial, and naval craft. Yonca Shipyard delivered more than 180 ships and boats, specializing in fast interceptor craft and patrol boats for defense and law enforcement agencies.Credits: Mishi Yachts
January 8, 2025