The Columbus Custom Hybrid 50m yacht, M/Y Anjelif, stands as a stunning testament to the artistry and engineering prowess exhibited by Columbus Yachts. Crafted entirely to the specifications of its visionary owner, Maria Francesca Angelini, this superyacht embodies the perfect blend of sophistication, innovation, and environmental consciousness.
M/Y Anjelif draws on the valuable experience Columbus Yachts amassed through the earlier Sport Hybrid 40m projects, which marked a milestone as the first superyacht to earn the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA) prestigious “Hybrid Propulsion Y” classification. Its robust yet sleek aluminum exterior is an expression of both strength and style, while the interiors reveal a meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a harmonious integration of spaces that reflect the owner's refined taste.
This custom-built masterpiece incorporates two pioneering sanitation technologies aimed at ensuring the safety and comfort of those on board. The first system employs cold plasma technology to purify air from the outside before it enters the yacht’s interior. Not only does this method eliminate bacteria and viruses, but it also enhances the quality of the vessel's air conditioning and ventilation systems.
The second technology automates sanitation within the interior spaces of M/Y Anjelif, executing cleansing cycles at predetermined intervals to uphold an optimal living environment. Together, these innovations were developed in close collaboration between the owner and project engineer Giuseppe Sole, substantially enhancing the yacht's health and wellness offerings.
The superyacht's design is a result of the collaborative efforts between the owner and architect Marco Casali of Too-Design, with naval engineering support from Hydro Tec. Insights taken from natural and ecological materials guide the interior aesthetics, showcasing exquisite Taurini stones relevant not only for their beauty but also for their ability to create a serene atmosphere.
Shifting focus to the yacht's exterior, the transom features a cocoon-style relaxation area merging seamlessly with a transformer platform and an innovative fold-down lateral platform, creating a genuine beach club experience. Ascending to the main deck, one encounters an elegant swimming pool flanked by sun loungers on a beautifully finished teak deck. This area is complemented by a stylish bar crafted from bleached oak and highlighted with crystal and polished steel accents.
Upon entering the generous lounge on the main deck, guests are treated to breathtaking views afforded by the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. A custom-designed sofa invites relaxation, featuring a segmented structure that transforms into an innovative layout through an electric micro rail movement system. Upholstered in a luxurious champagne-colored fabric by Armani, this seating arrangement ensures that comfort meets aesthetic appeal.
The owner's quarters exude luxury and functionality, inclusive of a massage room, a well-appointed office with integrated technology, and a fully equipped gym. The en-suite facilities impress with a double sink in polished yellow quartz, a hot tub, and a large bespoke mosaic shower/hammam, as well as a dedicated infrared sauna room. A standout feature is the expansive fixed balcony, offering private views and a peaceful retreat.
In terms of craftsmanship, the interiors boast rich, natural oak wood complemented by canaletto walnut and white lacquered finishes with rose gold accents. Thoughtfully designed backlit natural precious stones from Taurini create a unique visual experience and contribute to the calming atmosphere of the yacht.
Moving to the lower deck, M/Y Anjelif houses guest accommodations comprising four cabins, capable of sleeping up to eleven guests. Each cabin is designed with large windows that allow for exceptional views, while also incorporating chromatic designs that harmonize with the luxurious en-suite bathrooms. An innovative 2-in-1 system allows certain cabins to transform configurations, enhancing versatility for guests.
The upper deck features a stunning sun pad area accompanied by a teak dining table for up to ten, and an elegant indoor dining room that boasts a custom-made oval table with a prized oyster shell top. This multifaceted space seamlessly transitions into an elegant entertainment area thanks to its adaptable design.
The helm station on the second deck epitomizes the convergence of luxury and advanced navigational technologies, while a multifunctional area adds sophisticated outdoor living space that can even accommodate helicopter landings.
On the sun deck, expansive and elegant, two large loungers, a custom round table, and a lavish hot tub create an inviting atmosphere for relaxation. With accommodations for 11 crew members spread across seven cabins, M/Y Anjelif operates optimally with a gross tonnage of 499 GT and can reach speeds of up to 20 knots.
Powered by twin MTU 16V 2000 M96L diesel engines, complemented by two electric motors, this hybrid superyacht is designed for efficiency and minimal environmental impact. The advanced hybrid system allows navigation and electricity generation in various modes, including diesel, electric, and shaft generator configurations, ensuring flexibility and exceptional performance while reducing emissions.
Fraser Yachts is entrusted with the charter management of this vessel.
Palumbo Superyachts began to take root in 2008, when the Columbus Yachts brand was established, and in 2011 launched its first 54 meter superyacht, emblematically christened “Prima” (“the First”). Currently, Palumbo Superyachts comprises a representative office in Monaco and a logistics network of five shipyards in the Mediterranean (Ancona, Malta, Marseille, Naples, and Savona), and also operates the following brands: ISA Yachts, Extra Yachts, Columbus Yachts, Mondomarine and Palumbo SY Refit.
Credits: Palumbo Superyachts
The 70-meter sailing superyacht SY Zero, the world’s first designed to operate entirely without fossil fuels, is approaching the final stages of construction, with an expected launch by the end of 2025. The project, a collaboration between Vripack Yacht Design, Vitters Shipyard, and Dykstra Naval Architects, represents a significant step in sustainable yacht development, backed by over 60,000 hours of research and innovation.SY Zero is engineered to rely solely on wind, solar, and thermal energy while maintaining the performance and luxury standards of a traditional superyacht. The project aims to demonstrate the feasibility of eliminating fossil fuel dependency in high-end yachting. All technical data, system designs, and research findings will be made publicly available through FoundationZero.org, providing open access to sustainable maritime innovations for designers, engineers, and researchers.The yacht’s energy system is entirely electric, powered by a five-megawatt-hour battery storage system—equivalent to the capacity of 88 Tesla vehicles. Renewable energy is harvested through multiple methods: hydro-generating thrusters capture energy from water flow while under sail, a 100-square-meter hybrid solar panel array converts both light and heat at 60% efficiency, and a wind turbine supplements power generation using offshore airflow.Marnix Hoekstra, co-creative director at Vripack, stated: “This project has always been about showing what’s possible. We wanted to demonstrate that comfort, design, and performance can coexist with fossil-free operation. The project has been driven by data, testing, and a long-term commitment to sustainable naval design. Our goal wasn’t just to prove that a fossil-free superyacht is viable—it was to create a real-world model others can learn from.”Vitters Shipyard, known for high-performance sailing yachts, led the construction. Louis Hamming from Vitters commented: “From the outset, this has been about building a yacht that reflects a future we all recognize is coming. It’s a privilege to help bring that future into reality.”The interior accommodates up to 12 guests, featuring sustainable materials such as pine-based leather and leathered marble, which retains natural imperfections. Each cabin draws inspiration from a global destination, with bespoke artworks crafted by local artisans.Following its technical launch, SY Zero will undergo extensive sea trials to test its advanced systems, including proprietary software managing onboard operations. Delivery is expected in 2026, seven years after the project’s inception.Eduard van Benthem, Executive Director at Foundation Zero, emphasized the broader mission: “The project isn’t about showing how good we are, nor even specifically about the yacht itself. We are really trying to showcase how we can do things better and inspire others to join us on the journey, to learn together and to share the knowledge, which is the fundamental aim of Foundation Zero in all its projects.”Beyond private use and limited charter opportunities, SY Zero will serve as a research platform for marine renewable energy and ocean sustainability studies, furthering its role in advancing eco-conscious yachting.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: Vripack
July 17, 2025
GX Superyachts has provided a progress update on its 42-meter flagship model, the GX42, currently under construction at SES Yachts' facility in Istanbul. The project remains on schedule for delivery in summer 2026, with several major construction phases now completed.The aluminum hull and superstructure are fully assembled, marking the transition to the outfitting stage. Thermal insulation and main piping systems are 80% installed, while electrical work has reached 25% completion. Approximately half of the paintwork has been applied.The hybrid propulsion system, combining diesel-electric drive with solar power generation, has passed factory testing and is ready for installation. Interior furniture, designed by Marco Casali, is 50% complete in workshop production.Vladimir Zinchenko, founder and CEO of GX Superyachts, stated: "It's inspiring to witness the GX42 taking shape so smoothly. Each milestone reinforces our belief that the GX42 will set a new benchmark in responsible yachting — a vessel that delivers both elegant design and low-impact cruising. Thanks to our partners at SES Yachts, Andrea Armas, Marco Casali and Francesco Rogantin, the project is running smoothly and exceeding expectations."The interior design emphasizes family-friendly spaces with a raised pilothouse layout that includes a main-deck owner's suite and full-beam VIP cabin. Natural materials and subdued color schemes reflect the yacht's focus on sustainable luxury.Upcoming work includes finalizing insulation and piping systems, progressing electrical installations, and integrating the hybrid propulsion package. Sea trials are planned for early 2026.Andrea Armas, consultant to GX Superyachts' Board of Directors, noted: "We are pushing the boundary of responsible yachting navigating through a new era of technological advancement, tailoring the dream of Yacht owners into a sustainable reality."Credits: GX Superyachts
July 17, 2025
Camper & Nicholsons has confirmed the sale of the 50.58m schooner Borkumriff IV, built by Royal Huisman in 2002. The sale was managed by Senior Sales Broker Arne Ploch. The yacht accommodates six guests in three cabins and has space for nine crew members.Inspired by traditional Newfoundland schooners, Borkumriff IV has a total length of 50.58 meters, including the bowsprit, and a sail area of 1,164 sq. m. The exterior was designed by John G. Alden’s office, with naval architecture by Dykstra. The interior, crafted by John Munford, features mahogany wood paneling and custom furniture, contrasting with lighter ceilings and floors.The yacht includes a main deck saloon and dining area, with accommodation on the lower deck. The full-beam master suite has a separate study, while two twin guest cabins are located midship. All cabins are en suite. Crew quarters are spacious, with a large galley.Borkumriff IV carries two tenders on its teak decks and features two cannons, used for ceremonial flag-lowering at sunset.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: Yacht Harbour archive
July 17, 2025
Turkish builder ART Shipyard, part of Besiktas Group, will unveil its first superyacht – the 35-meter Bee Explorer – at the Cannes Yachting Festival from September 9-14. The steel-hulled explorer with aluminum superstructure was designed by Hydro Tec to stay under 300GT while offering a 4,000-nautical-mile range at 10 knots. Ocean Independence serves as worldwide central agent for the €15.25 million vessel, which is available for immediate delivery.Sergio Cutolo of Hydro Tec explained the design rationale: "The 7.7-meter beam provides additional fuel capacity without significant efficiency loss, allowing owners to take advantage of regional fuel price variations." The naval architecture prioritizes seakeeping and fuel economy, with computational fluid dynamics used to optimize the hull form.Michele Dragoni's interior design blends explorer yacht robustness with contemporary styling. Horizontal dark lacquer frames contrast with bleached oak paneling in the main saloon, while curved bulkheads and strategic window placement maximize natural light. The upper lounge features a ceiling-mounted TV lift and lowered cabinetry to create a more relaxed atmosphere.Measuring 35 meters LOA with 2.2-meter draft, the Bee Explorer will be displayed in Port Canto during the festival. The yacht represents ART Shipyard's entry into the competitive sub-40-meter explorer market, leveraging Besiktas Group's commercial shipbuilding experience. The Cannes presentation follows successful sea trials in Turkish waters. Prospective owners can inspect the yacht throughout the six-day show before its scheduled autumn handover to its first owner. Credits: Ocean Independence
July 16, 2025
Italian shipyard Tankoa Yachts has strengthened its leadership team with two strategic appointments as part of its expansion strategy. Isabella Picco joins as Head of Marketing & Communication, bringing extensive experience in the luxury yachting sector. "I look forward to helping guide the shipyard while maintaining its core values," Picco stated.Isabella PiccoGuido Orsi, a long-standing executive at Tankoa since its founding, has been promoted to Vice President. In his new role, Orsi will oversee sustainability initiatives, technological development, and international growth. "Tankoa combines tradition, innovation and family values," Orsi commented regarding his appointment.Guido OrsiThe Genoa-based shipyard, specializing in custom superyacht construction between 50-80 meters, continues to expand its production facilities and workforce. These leadership changes follow Tankoa's recent delivery of the 50-meter Bintador and ongoing construction of multiple projects at its Genoa shipyard.No specific details were provided regarding new projects or production site expansions mentioned in the broader growth plan. Tankoa currently has three superyachts under construction, with deliveries scheduled through 2026. The shipyard maintains its focus on semi-custom and full-custom builds, competing in the 500-1,500GT market segment.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
July 16, 2025