US yacht market player Voyager Maritime Alliance Group (VMAG), has announced the successful completion of the largest superyacht conversion on the territory of the USA. VMAG project managed a complex refit of a 90-metre commercial ship initially launched in 1997, to become a fully integrated ocean-going superyacht named Voyager.
The transformation work on the vessel began at Leevac Shipyards in Louisiana in 2015. Back then, Voyager was bought by Hornbeck Offshore, a company that provides logistics support and specialty services to the offshore oil and gas exploration and production, mainly in the USA. Then, a three-year conversion into an explorer yacht was ordered.
First works done on Voyager included the lengthening of the platform, redesigning the bow area, and adding several superstructure decks for a completely new look. Then, Voyager was towed to Fort Lauderdale’s Dania Cut.
During completion works, the superyacht was impowered with the new generators and took a complete interior rejuvenation. Overall, the vessel now boasts six decks with a helipad, spa room, dive centre, and extensive storage for tenders and water toys.
Due to the complexity of the project, the delivery was postponed several times from December 2016.
VMAG fitted the vessel with over 3,000 monitored points, a customised console with touch screen technology, multiple screens at the bridge enhancing view angles and displaying readability, integrated video switching that shows strategic areas of the vessel using laser detection sensors.
David Leone, President of VMAG commented:
With our team of technical engineers, I knew we could accomplish this particularly complex project. Impeccable Project Management was a key element to control the early stages that encompassed customised carpentry, welding, fabrication, vessel infrastructure cabling and detailed CAD design utilising naval architecture design and services. Very little was left untouched throughout the vessel, so it was crucial to manage each section of the refit, in the right order, to avoid any delays and additional costs.
Camper & Nicholsons has announced the sale of the 35.6m motor yacht Cinquanta-50, represented by Arne Ploch. Built by the Italian Sea Group and delivered in 2014, Cinquanta-50 is suitable for both private use and commercial charters.The yacht, a displacement motor vessel, has been maintained according to class and is in good condition. It offers a comfortable cruising experience with solid construction, low noise levels, and zero speed stabilizers.Cinquanta-50 can accommodate nine guests in four en suite cabins, including a midship master suite, a VIP double, and two twin cabins, one with an additional Pullman berth. The yacht also has separate accommodation for a crew of five.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: Camper & Nicholsons
June 26, 2024
Sanlorenzo and Bluegame will unveil new models at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2024, held from September 10-15. Represented by Sanlorenzo Yachts UK, the SP92 and SL86A will make their world debuts.Sanlorenzo SL86ASL86AThe SL86A, part of Sanlorenzo's Asymmetric range, offers increased interior volume and enhanced sea views through floor-to-ceiling windows by moving the port side deck up a level. The redesigned stern houses both a Williams tender and jetski. The SL96A and SL120A will also be on display.Sanlorenzo SP92SP92The SP92, the latest in Sanlorenzo’s Smart Performance (SP) line, combines style and performance. Joining it will be the award-winning SP110, which recently won the Compasso d’Oro 2024 for its design, performance, and sustainability.Sanlorenzo SD SeriesSD118The SD90 and SD118, inspired by 1930s trans-Atlantic liners, blend luxury and functionality. The SD90 features hybrid propulsion options, while the 35.75-meter SD118 offers significant autonomy.Sanlorenzo SX SeriesSX100The SX100, SX88, and SX76 will showcase the SX ‘crossover’ series, merging traditional flybridge and explorer yacht features to provide ruggedness and long-range cruising capabilities with comfort and style.As a brand of Sanlorenzo, Bluegame will present models from its BG, BGX, and BGM ranges.Bluegame BGM75BGM75Recently named in Robb Report’s Best of the Best 2024 for Innovation, the BGM75 offers a svelte profile without compromising space. It includes a full-beam main suite, optional guest cabins, a 27-foot wide beach club, and a large flybridge with 360-degree views.Bluegame BG RangeBG54The BG42, BG54, and flagship BG74, designed for high performance and efficiency, will be on display. The BG74 combines flybridge yacht comfort with open boat outdoor spaces.Bluegame BGX RangeThe BGX range features large, multipurpose outdoor areas and a seamless interior-exterior flow. Either the BGX63 or BGX73 will be present, showcasing the range's distinctiveness and quality.Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length. Credits: MAA Agency; Sanlorenzo
June 26, 2024
The Italian Sea Group has announced the keel laying of the Admiral 50m superyacht, marking the six hundred and seventh yacht in its fleet and another addition to its “semi-custom” series.Giovanni Costantino, Founder & CEO of The Italian Sea Group, remarked on the significance of the keel laying ceremony, a traditional maritime event that signifies the yacht beginning to take shape. He noted, “This is a moment of great emotion for both the shipyard and the Owner Team.” Costantino also highlighted the company's ongoing enthusiasm for "semi-custom production" at a high level.The Admiral 50m superyacht features a design that eliminates visual barriers, creating a seamless connection between external and internal spaces. The yacht’s layout promotes fluid interaction among its environments, which are characterized by large volumes and detailed structures.The interiors of the yacht offer a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere, using carefully selected materials such as wood, stones, and rough metals. A notable aspect of the yacht's design is the arrangement of the guest and owner’s cabins. The owner’s cabin is situated on the upper deck, providing open views on three sides and access to a private deck at the bow. Guest cabins are located on the main deck and feature large hull windows.The Admiral 50m yacht, with a gross tonnage of 499 GT, can accommodate up to 14+2 guests in private use. It also offers the flexibility to convert two additional lounges on the lower deck into extra cabins, enhancing its versatility.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
June 26, 2024
Ocean Alexander has announced the appointment of Niel Steenkamp as its new Commercial Sales Director.Steenkamp brings extensive experience in the boating industry, having been raised near the water in Cape Town, South Africa. His career began in the South African Navy as a submariner and continued with roles as a yacht captain and broker. Steenkamp expressed his passion for the industry, stating, “The sheer excitement of sailing and the endless possibilities of life on the water thrilled me and I thoroughly enjoy now sharing it.”Niel SteenkampDan Mundy, Head of Global Operations at Ocean Alexander, highlighted Steenkamp's talents in communication, organization, excellence, and trust, which align with the company's core values. Mundy said, “Niel has found an amazing career in the industry, not only serving his country in the Navy but later as a yacht captain, broker, and ambassador to his clients.”For over 45 years, Ocean Alexander has been a leader in the luxury yacht industry, known for building stylish and seaworthy superyachts with meticulous attention to detail. The company focuses on the superyacht market with models ranging from 27M to 40M. In 2024, Ocean Alexander will offer four distinct series and a dozen models, with many yachts already sold and under construction.Mundy emphasized Ocean Alexander's commitment to exceptional customer service, from sales consultation through commissioning and maintenance. He added, “With our global reach and exceptional dealer partnerships, we are poised to continually reach a broader audience and continue our path of growth through excellence. Niel’s passion and dedication make him a perfect addition to our team.”Ocean Alexander is a family business. Two generations of one family have guided the shipyard for almost four decades. With manufacturing in Taiwan, Ocean Alexander is consistently one of the top selling brands for large yachts in the U.S. and currently produces models ranging from 26 to 36 meters in length. Credits: Ocean Alexander
June 25, 2024
Bilgin Yachts has delivered the 50-meter yacht Eternal Spark, which is now available for charter and will debut at the Monaco Yacht Show 2024.Construction of the Bilgin 163 model began in December 2019, with the sale completed in 2022 by SuperYachts Croatia. The yacht features a sporty yet elegant exterior designed by Unique Yacht Design and interiors by Hot Lab.Eternal Spark is designed with the charter market in mind, focusing on entertainment. It can host over 100 guests quayside across its four expansive, open-plan decks, featuring five bars and six outdoor social areas.Emrecan Özgün of Unique Yacht Design highlighted the enhanced exterior spaces, giving the Bilgin 163 a more sportive appearance. The yacht includes a 21-meter sundeck with a large hot tub, a 12-meter bridge deck aft, and a spacious main deck aft, providing a seamless connection to the beach club and the sea without adding bulk to the design.The interiors, crafted by Milan-based Hot Lab, showcase over 60 natural finishes, including 14 different marbles. The six-cabin layout accommodates 12 guests, with each stateroom offering unique color combinations. Enrico Lumini, partner and head of design at Hot Lab, aimed for a fresh and colorful aesthetic, avoiding overwhelming use of color to create a light, sunny ambiance reminiscent of a villa on the Côte d'Azur.Notable design features include a full-height round glass wall dividing the main saloon and lobby, a giant chandelier, a floating staircase, and a skylight on the sundeck floor. The sunken-level beach club boasts a sauna, ice fountain, day head, and a lounge with a wet bar. The yacht also features both outdoor and indoor cinemas.Constructed with steel and aluminum, Eternal Spark is powered by twin CAT C32 engines, achieving a top speed of 16.5 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots.Bilgin Yachts is a boutique shipyard on the European side of Istanbul, building 50 to 120m luxury superyachts. It has been a family-run business for five generations since the early 1900s.Credits: Bilgin Yachts
June 25, 2024