The Monaco Yacht Show 2024, held from September 25 to 28, showcased the debut of Wally’s inaugural sailing yacht from its new wallywind collection, the Galma. This extraordinary wallywind110 model represents a significant milestone as the largest yacht delivered since the Ferretti Group assumed control of Wally. It highlights the brand's unwavering dedication to sailing, with a second vessel already in production.
Avv. Alberto Galassi, the Chief Executive Officer of Ferretti Group, emphasized, “Since Wally joined the Ferretti Group, it has remained true to its roots.” He elaborated that the vision is to create yachts that stand apart within the sailing industry. With the introduction of the wallywind110, Wally continues its legacy of crafting highly customizable yachts. Each vessel reflects individual design preferences, ensuring that no two yachts share the same appearance.
The inception of the wallywind series began in 2022, setting out to create high-performance sailing yachts ranging from 110 to 150 feet. The wallywind110 showcases the brand’s renowned sailing heritage, merging elegant Wally aesthetics with impressive performance characteristics and features typically reserved for larger yachts. Galassi remarked on the significance of this first model, noting its launch coincides with Wally’s 30th anniversary and reaffirming the importance of the sailing superyacht segment for the Ferretti Group. “Our mission is to stay ahead of market trends and set new benchmarks in yacht design and performance,” he added.
Constructed from carbon fiber composite – a material Wally pioneered in the sailing industry – the wallywind110 features high modulus carbon spars and rigging. Coupled with a meticulously optimized Judel/Vrolijk & Co hull design, this yacht promises thrilling cruising experiences and substantial racing potential with a small crew. Its striking metallic blue hull shifts in color based on the sunlight, adding to its visual allure.
The wallywind110 Galma excels in outdoor living spaces, offering a cockpit area that rivals much larger yachts, featuring over 80 square meters of plush seating, sunbeds, and dining options tailored to the owner's preferences. Unencumbered by sailing controls, guests can relax and enjoy the sailing experience without the hassle of navigating technical equipment. Unique to this design, the cockpit boasts a seamless, flush deck leading to sunbeds, enhancing comfort and accessibility.
A standout feature is the well-appointed guest cockpit, which includes hidden fridges, eliminating the need for guests to venture below for refreshments. The sleek, low-profile design contributes to the yacht’s modern aesthetics, ensuring that the coach roof does not disrupt its elegant lines.
On the foredeck, there is a cozy lounge area, but the pièce de résistance is Wally's renowned terrace-on-the-sea at the stern, creating an exquisite social hub right by the water, perfect for lounging, chatting, or watching water sports in action. Wally Founder and Chief Designer Luca Bassani noted, “In three decades, I’ve never seen owners so overwhelmingly satisfied with their new Wally, which speaks to the quality and craftsmanship we’ve achieved.”
Internally, the wallywind110 leverages its raised deck saloon design to optimize space below deck. This configuration creates room for an engine and technical equipment while maximizing accommodations. The yacht provides up to four spacious guest cabins and three for crew, with potential for additional features like a bar or office. The interior can be customized to suit individual tastes, enriched by natural light from hull windows, skylights, and thoughtfully designed spaces with light woods, soft upholstery, and carbon fiber accents for a contemporary and inviting atmosphere.
When it comes to performance, the wallywind110 is engineered to excel. It strikes a perfect balance between speed and comfort, offering a responsive sailing experience without compromising on the luxuries of yachting life. The vessel employs twin rudders and a meticulous hull design that ensures agility. With its standard keel and an impressive 635 square meter sail plan, it provides ample power, with options for a larger mainsail to enhance sail area. The yacht is capable of showcasing an impressive 1,296 square meters of downwind sail for exhilarating races or quick passage-making.
Bassani notes that the wallywind110 is ideal for seasoned motor yacht owners looking to transition to sustainable sailing alternatives over 100 feet. This yacht serves families eager for summer adventures while allowing participation in competitive sailing regattas. Riding the wave of excitement surrounding this first hull, Wally has already initiated the crafting of a second model, promising to incorporate subtle modifications and enhancements.
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.
Credit: Ferretti Group
Henk de Vries III will retire as Director of Feadship and CEO of Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw on 1 May 2025, concluding nearly four decades of leadership in the superyacht industry. He will transition to an Ambassador role for Feadship while maintaining involvement as a non-executive board member and shareholder of the family-owned shipbuilder.Henk de Vries De Vries joined the company in 1987 and became a director/shareholder in 1996 alongside his cousin Tom de Vries. Under their leadership, De Vries expanded to seven operating companies with over 1,200 employees. The group remains fully family-owned and holds a 50% stake in Feadship.A proponent of sustainability, de Vries co-founded the Water Revolution Foundation in 2018 and continues as its Board Chairman. The organization focuses on reducing yachting’s ecological impact through science-based initiatives.Leadership transitions to Roderick de Vries as CEO and Operational Director, with Bas Nederpelt assuming the role of Chief Commercial Officer and Feadship Director. The new executive team brings over 80 years of combined experience at De Vries.Henk and Tom de VriesHenk de Vries stated: “The four members of our new executive board bring with them over eighty years of De Vries experience. Their deep understanding of the company ensures it is in very capable hands.”Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
April 25, 2025
Apreamare California, the brand’s new exclusive dealer for the U.S. West Coast, will present the American premiere of the Gozzo 38 Cabin at the Newport Beach International Boat Show from May 1st to 4th. The new dealership, led by entrepreneur Jack Suski, marks Apreamare’s return to the U.S. market, where the brand has previously sold nearly 100 boats across Florida, California, Connecticut, and other regions.Based in San Francisco Bay, Apreamare California maintains direct ties with the Sorrento shipyard, ensuring clients receive an authentic Made in Italy experience.The Gozzo 38 Cabin is a year-round cruising version of the popular Gozzo line, designed for enhanced comfort in rougher waters while retaining the open version’s signature style. Developed by Cataldo Aprea, Marco Casali, and Umberto Tagliavini, the model features a redesigned deckhouse with panoramic windows, offering a 360-degree view and a fully enclosed dinette.Giovanni Aprea, Sales Director of Apreamare, stated: “Overseas shipowners have always shown a strong appreciation for Apreamare boats, attracted by the timeless style of our creations, the excellent navigation capabilities, and the endless customization possibilities. With Apreamare California and our participation in the Newport Beach boat show, we bring this heritage directly to our esteemed American customers.”Jack Suski, CEO of Apreamare California, added: “I am thrilled to introduce the Gozzo 38 Cabin to California. Apreamare’s elegance and seaworthiness perfectly align with West Coast boating culture, offering owners the opportunity to cruise the coastline in style and with confidence.”The Newport Beach International Boat Show will be held at Lido Marina Village.Credits: Apreamare
April 25, 2025
The 60 Sunreef Power Eco electric catamaran has been named Catamaran of the Year 2025 in the Multipower category. The award was presented on April 23 during the International Multihull Show in La Grande Mothe, France. The prestigious accolade is granted by Multihulls World magazine to recognize the most innovative and outstanding catamarans in the industry.The 18m catamaran features an advanced solar energy system with photovoltaic panels integrated into the hulls, bimini roof, and superstructure. Powered by two electric motors, the vessel benefits from a continuous supply of clean energy, delivering a smooth and environmentally friendly sailing experience.A key feature of the 60 Sunreef Power Eco is its special ultralight battery, which enables silent and vibration-free operation. The catamaran is designed for comprehensive 360° sustainable sailing, incorporating an energy-efficient air conditioning system and eco-friendly materials in its finishes. Sunreef Yachts was founded by Francis Lapp in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland. Since then, the shipyard has been designing and manufacturing luxury sailing and power multihulls. Credits: Sunreef Yachts
April 25, 2025
Viken Group has introduced its latest innovation in the luxury cruise yacht sector – the 196-meter REI. Developed as a collaborative effort between the three brands of the Viken Group – TDoS (Tillberg Design of Sweden), Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – the project aims to set new standards in sustainable and exclusive cruise experiences.The REI project solidifies Viken Group’s position as a pioneer in the luxury cruise yacht segment. The vessel, designed to accommodate up to 112 guests and 125 crew members across its 10 decks, features a beam of 28 meters and offers a unique blend of adventure, sustainability, and exclusivity.“We are thrilled to introduce REI. The 196-meter project is the perfect illustration of the combined offerings of the Viken Group, where we manage exterior styling, engineering, master planning, and interior under one umbrella,” said Fredrik Johansson, Co-Founder of the Viken Group and Executive Director of TDoS. “This approach helps our clients streamline the process dramatically, control investments, and optimize outcomes for both guests and operators.”The yacht’s design features a streamlined exterior inspired by nature, combining technical, industrial, and automotive aesthetics with dynamic curves. In contrast, the contemporary interior offers a tranquil environment with adjustable lighting and tactile materials, providing a rare digital detox experience for guests.REI’s design focuses on balancing private and public spaces, featuring numerous dedicated areas for exclusive use. Notable amenities include duplex suites with private winter gardens and pools, massage areas, double-height windows showcasing panoramic views, and a stunning forward infinity pool.Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with multiple propulsion options including electric, hydrogen, solar, and wind power. The vessel also includes a secondary 27-meter expedition vessel for easy embarkation and disembarkation, powered by electric or solar energy.The onboard experience is designed to be ever-evolving, with entertainment, activities, and menus adapting to the time of year and location. The exploratory dining concept, themed ‘from sea, to land, to sky,’ offers a diverse culinary journey.“The market for cruise yachts is currently looking very promising,” said Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director at Viken Group. “Thanks to our three brands – TDoS, Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – Viken Group can harness our unique expertise across superyachts, cruise ships, and refits, meaning we are perfectly positioned to make our mark.”The REI project represents a significant advancement in the luxury cruise yacht sector, combining innovative design, sustainability, and an unparalleled guest experience.Credits: Viken Group
April 24, 2025
Heesen Yachts has announced the passing of its founder, Frans Heesen, on April 23, 2025, in his hometown of Oss. He is survived by his wife Petra, children, and grandchildren.Frans Heesen’s leadership and talent for identifying and nurturing potential were fundamental to the success and growth of Heesen Yachts. Known for his visionary approach and Dutch courage, Heesen took bold steps that shaped the future of the shipyard.One of his most notable achievements was the decision to build the groundbreaking yacht Octopussy, despite significant risks. This project not only succeeded but also brought global recognition to Heesen Yachts.Throughout his career, Frans dedicated himself to creating a family-like atmosphere at the shipyard. Even after the company was sold, the family environment he established remained strong. The values he instilled continue to define the company’s culture today.Heesen Yachts expressed its deepest condolences to Frans’ family and friends, noting that while his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit and vision will continue to guide the company.Frans Heesen’s contributions have left a lasting impact on the yachting industry and on everyone who had the opportunity to work with him. He will be remembered for his pioneering spirit and dedication to excellence.Credits: Heesen Yachts
April 24, 2025