One of the key stories of the past year has been the acquisition of two superyachts by the state of Equatorial Guinea. The largest of the two was the 90-meter Ice, which in itself has a fascinating story. Commissioned by an Italian billionaire and delivered to a Russian oligarch, Ice was built with environmental friendliness in mind.
Ice's story starts under a different name - Air, which is what Augusto Perfetti dubbed her when he ordered her from Lurssen in Germany. A famous Italian candy manufacturer, Perfetti is mostly known as the owner of Mentos but also Chupa Chups. Forbes currently values him and his brother at a combined $7.2 billion.
As Perfetti had the yacht under construction at the shipyard, he was approached by Russian billionaire Suleyman Kerimov to acquire the yacht. According to media, the oligarch made him an offer he couldn't refuse and the yacht was sold prior to her delivery. Following the yacht's completion, she was christened as Ice. Meanwhile, Perfetti ordered himself another Air yacht at Feadship.
Out of the many alluring aspects that Ice features is her friendliness to the environment. In fact, the 90 meter yacht was the first to have Azipod drive units installed instead of shafted diesels that one would typically find onboard a motor yacht. A top priority in the construction of Ice was to lower emissions as well as all possible noise and vibration.
The result was a quiet yacht that could seamlessly cruise through the oceans. The choice of azipods allowed for a more flexible layout on the inside whilst electric generators made it possible to fit the engine room on a single deck and save space. Filters were installed on Ice to made sure that the exhaust gases passed through the eight steel pipes at the yacht's highest points were first filtered and unnoticeable.
Designed by Tim Heywood both outside and inside, Project Rainbow, as it was known during her build, features a contemporary style on the interior with an unmistakable style on the exterior. Stretching across Ice's full beam, the owner's stateroom forward of the main deck is located near to two VIP cabins on the same deck.
The aft of the main deck is dedicated to being a bathing area, with guests being able to both quickly access the sea through a spacious swimming platform as well as enjoy the water in a swimming pool aft of the deck. The rapid access from the pool into the sea is ensured through two staircases on either side of the yacht.
Whereas Heywood focused on the yacht's layout, it was Terence Disdale who created the interior style of the yacht. Coupled with a vast collection of modern art, Ice's interior is created in Zen minimalism. Creative furniture and fittings are further complemented by large windows that beam natural light deep into the 90 meter yacht.
Built for efficient performance, Ice can be controlled with a single joystick that connects the full bow thrusters and azipods, according to statements issued when the yacht was launched. During sea trials, the 90 meter yacht reached a top speed of 18.6 knots with nearly 100% clean exhausts. Burning 16 to 17 tonnes of fuel in 24 hours, she cruises at an average speed of 16 to 17 knots.
Amongst Ice's main amenities are a helipad aft of the third deck, a lounging area on the sundeck, a private space on the bow area of the yacht as well as tall windows throughout the yacht creating lots of volume in its salons and suites. With an interior volume of 2,870 tons, she stretches across a total beam of nearly 15 meters.
The most recent chapter in Ice's history came in 2015 as Kerimov sold the 90-meter yacht to son of the President of Equatorial Guinea according to a report by Le Monde. The French newspaper goes on to say that following the acquisition, Ice's new owner replaced Ice's helicopter with a new Eurocopter EC135. Earlier in 2014, the same group purchased the 78m Feadship, Ebony Shine.
As it was leaving the Netherlands after a refit, Ebony Shine was however seized in March 2017 by Dutch authorities as part of a case against the yacht's beneficial owner. According to Maritime Executive, the defendants then argued that the yacht could not be seized as it was technically a governmental vessel operated through Dara Limited, an offshore holding company controlled by Equatorial Guinea.
Ebony Shine
The 25th largest yacht in the world at the time of her delivery, Ice has since slipped to the 66th position in the world rankings as larger megayachts began being build. Her drive for clear exhausts, minimized vibration and noise have, however, inspired a drive across even smaller yachts for more efficiency and lower noise pollution.
Valued at $6.3 billion by Forbes, Suleyman Kerimov currently sits as the 21st richest man in Russia with his net worth having risen five fold in less than two years. Having made his wealth investing in distressed companies, Kerimov started his investing activity in 1992. Shortly prior to the 2008 crisis, he sold nearly all of his assets in Russia including a stake in Gazprom, a large real estate development project.
With loans from VTB bank, he bought a stake in Polyus Gold, Russia's largest gold mining outfit as well as in Rostelecom, a telecom company. He acquired Rybolovlev's stake in Uralkali, later reselling it to billionaires Prokhorov and Mazepin. Currently the primary owner of Polyus Gold, Kerimov represents the republic of Dagestan at the Russian Federation's council.
In 2017, Kerimov reportedly made a bid to acquire the 85-meter Solandge according to Russian media. According to their story, the offer was, however, turned down and the yacht ultimately sold to a different buyer from the Middle East. Designed by Espen Oeino, Solandge was also built by Lurssen, similarly to Ice.
Valued at $7.2 billion by Forbes, the Perfetti brothers are the owners of Perfetti Van Melle, a candy and gum manufacturing giant behind brands such as Mentos, Airheads and Chupa-Chups. Started by their father Ambrogio Perfetti together with his brother Egidio, the company was inspired by American soldiers who had brought gum from overseas. No longer involved in operations, the two brothers are considered to be the 7th richest family in Italy.
Following his sale of the 90-meter Lurssen, the Italian billionaire decided to build a yacht at Feadship in the Netherlands. This resulted in the 81-meter Air, which was delivered in 2011 and is currently available for charter from €700,000 per week.
Following its successful American debut, the Seadeck 7 has arrived in APAC for its regional première at the upcoming Singapore Yachting Festival, running from April 10th to 13th, 2025. Joining the Seadeck 7 on display will be the Magellano 60 and the Grande Trideck.Seadeck 7This year marks a pivotal moment for Azimut in Asia, a region teeming with growth opportunities for the yachting industry. The Shipyard is intensifying its presence locally with a strategic development plan focused on enhancing its distribution network and owner-centric services. Celebrating this expansion, Azimut will host its inaugural Azimut Asian Rendez-Vous in Tokyo during the spring season.Azimut’s dominance in the region is evident in its sales of yachts measuring up to 40 meters, reinforced recently by accolades at the 2025 Best of the Best Awards by the Hurun Research Institute. Recognized as the brand with the strongest appeal among Chinese HNWIs, Azimut also saw the Seadeck 7 honored as the Luxury Hybrid Yacht Best New Arrival.Grande TrideckThis winning streak culminates in Azimut’s participation at the Singapore Yachting Festival, where visitors at ONE°15 Marina, Sentosa Cove, will have the chance to explore the Seadeck 7. Designed to offer a gentler and more sustainable way of enjoying the ocean, the Seadeck 7 integrates cutting-edge technology, design innovation, and a deep commitment to human and environmental well-being. Alongside the Seadeck 7, the Magellano 60, introduced last year, and the Grande Trideck, with two deliveries in the region and a third imminent, continue to resonate strongly with the growing superyacht market.Enrico Chiaussa, Azimut’s Chief Commercial Officer for EMEA-APAC, emphasized, “The Singapore Yachting Festival is the perfect platform to showcase the Seadeck 7, embodying Azimut’s vision of reinventing life onboard through groundbreaking layouts and partnerships with globally acclaimed designers. Asia, with its dynamic energy and burgeoning interest in sustainable solutions, aligns perfectly with our philosophy, making it a vital market for our continued growth.”The Seadeck 7 stands out as the world’s first yacht to merge hybrid propulsion with the Volvo Penta IPS system, leveraging Volvo Penta’s pioneering hybrid-electric technology. Coupled with extensive carbon fiber usage and an efficient hull co-developed by NAMES and the Azimut|Benetti Group R&D Department, this innovation reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 40%, reflecting Azimut’s ongoing pursuit of sustainability.Magellano 60At the heart of the Seadeck Series’ design is the innovative Fun Island – a reinterpretation of the aft cockpit conceptualized by Alberto Mancini. Transforming this space into a sea-embracing terrace, the Fun Island eliminates barriers between occupants and the surrounding marine environment, fostering a profound connection with nature. This ethos carries over into the interior, where Matteo Thun & Antonio Rodriguez employed natural, recycled, and recyclable materials to create a distinctive aesthetic.Azimut Yachts is an Azimut Benetti Group brand. With its Atlantis, Magellano Flybridge, S, Verve and Grande collections, Azimut offers the widest range of 10 to 40 meters.Credits: Azimut Yachts
April 4, 2025
The Italian Sea Group has announced that the outfitting of the much-anticipated Admiral 73m megayacht is in full swing at their headquarters in Marina di Carrara. As part of the esteemed ADM Fleet, which comprises vessels ranging from 66 to 73 meters, the Admiral 73 represents the epitome of luxury and performance. To date, seven units of the fleet have already been sold.The Admiral 73 exterior, masterfully crafted by The Italian Sea Group Centro Stile, combines elegance with modern aesthetics, while the interior, meticulously curated by FM Architettura, exudes sophistication and refinement. During the current outfitting phase, the focus lies on integrating state-of-the-art technological systems and navigation equipment, ensuring that the megayacht remains at the forefront of innovation.Spanning three lavish decks, the Admiral 73 is an oasis of comfort and opulence, tailored to provide an unrivaled entertainment experience for the owner, their family, and guests alike. From its striking design elements to its carefully selected amenities, every inch of the megayacht radiates exclusivity.Large windows on the main and upper decks flood the interior with natural light, framing breathtaking panoramas. The main deck features a wide salon and dining area, blending effortlessly with the outdoor lounge through large sliding glass panels. Foldable balconies and a full-beam indoor-outdoor space further enhance the alfresco lifestyle. An intimate relaxation area at the upper deck completed with a cocktail bar and floor-to-ceiling windows, invites guests to unwind in style.Spacious owner’s suite occupying over 90 square meters on the main deck, the owner’s suite offers unparalleled privacy. Twelve guest cabins and twenty crew quarters, including the captain’s cabin, ensure utmost comfort for everyone aboard.The beach club on the lower deck boasts foldable balconies, complemented by a gym, sauna, and massage room, providing the ultimate retreat for health and wellness enthusiasts. The sun deck is a haven for relaxation, featuring a sun bar, pool, and ample lounging areas for socializing under the open sky.Powered by two CAT 3512C engines, each generating 1500 kW at 1600 RPM, the Admiral 73 delivers a maximum speed of 15 knots and a range of 6000 nautical miles at 10 knots.The Admiral 73 megayacht is scheduled to delivery in late 2026.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
April 4, 2025
The construction of the innovative Sialia 45 yacht at the shipyard in Poland is proceeding according to plan. A major achievement has been marked with the completion of the hull and deck. The first fully electric Sialia 45 is expected to be unveiled in June, with its official debut taking place at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2025. With its advanced battery system, the yacht boasts a range of 55 nautical miles at 25 knots using standard batteries, while the endurance pack extends this range to over 130 nautical miles. Furthermore, it features rapid charging, allowing the batteries to reach 90% capacity from 10% in just over 2.5 hours.As work progresses on the Sialia 45, the hull and deck have been successfully finished, and the bottom liner is nearing completion, signifying a crucial phase in the production process. One standout feature is the use of cutting-edge carbon technology in constructing the hull. Employing three distinct infusion techniques, the lightweight yet durable carbon-fiber composite achieves optimal performance and longevity. The full carbon sandwich epoxy construction ensures structural integrity and minimizes noise and vibrations, delivering a smooth and comfortable experience.With the target completion date set for late June, Sialia Yachts is confident about meeting their production goals. Once the first unit is delivered, manufacturing will ramp up to produce an impressive ten vessels annually. According to Milvio Ricci, Chief Commercial Officer at Sialia Yachts, this meticulous approach reflects the company's commitment to quality and attention to detail.The Sialia 45 promises unmatched power and efficiency. Powered by dual 300 kW motors, the 14-meter electric cruiser can attain speeds of up to 43 knots. Featuring top-tier amenities, spacious interiors, and versatile deck designs, the yacht is designed for extended journeys without compromising speed. Using the standard 500 kWh battery pack, the Sialia 45 can travel 55 nautical miles at 25 knots, while the optional 200 kWh endurance pack increases this range to 77 miles.For even greater flexibility, the yacht can be equipped with either a 140 kW or 350 kW biodiesel range extender, extending the range to 164 or 240 nautical miles, respectively. Fast-charging capabilities ensure minimal downtime, enabling users to quickly recharge the batteries from 10% to 90% within 3.5 hours—even with the enhanced endurance pack installed.Offered in three distinct models – Runabout, Sport, and Weekender – the Sialia 45 caters to diverse needs. The Runabout model incorporates a sleek, low-profile windshield and open deck layout inspired by traditional motorboats. Meanwhile, the Sport variant adopts a center console configuration with a protective windscreen and roof, offering shelter from the elements. The Weekender version features a glass deckhouse that can transform into a climate-controlled indoor-outdoor space, perfect for warmer or cooler climates.Each model boasts a well-designed lower deck, including a full-spec bathroom with a shower and an optional galley or salon area. Multiple seating arrangements, expansive sun pads, and customizable finishes allow owners to tailor their yacht to suit their preferences, whether they seek a functional pleasure craft or a luxurious superyacht.Sialia Yachts prioritizes sustainability across every aspect of design and production. Beyond the eco-friendly electric drivetrain, the company utilizes recycled materials such as cork flooring and emphasizes lifecycle considerations. These measures reduce environmental impact while ensuring high-quality craftsmanship. Additionally, the electric motors require minimal maintenance, eliminating the need for frequent oil changes or servicing typically associated with combustion engines. Batteries are rated for 30,000 cycles and come with a five-year warranty, ensuring reliability and peace of mind for owners.Established in 2017, Sialia Yachts, owned by Silent Straits, is a company focused on sustainability and ocean-friendly innovation aiming to set new standards in yachting, with designs that inspire both enthusiasts and experts. The company offers the following models: 45, 59, and 80 Explorer. Sialia Yachts is based in Warsaw, Poland, with a team that includes members in the Netherlands and Italy.Credits: Sialia Yachts
April 4, 2025
On March 30th, Sunreef Yachts made a significant stride in its global expansion by inaugurating the Sunreef Lounge in Shanghai. Strategically situated at the prestigious Sunch Yacht Club in Pudong, this new facility symbolizes the company's dedication to advancing luxury yachting in Asia.More than just an exhibition space, the Sunreef Lounge acts as a cultural center, facilitating meaningful interactions between clients, collaborators, and enthusiasts. Here, visitors can explore Sunreef's state-of-the-art technologies and environmentally conscious solutions in a refined and engaging atmosphere.Central to the lounge's offerings is the groundbreaking Sunreef Ultima line, which integrates speed, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to inspire responsible ownership, this cutting-edge collection highlights the shipyard's commitment to shaping the future of eco-conscious yachting.By merging global luxury standards with local customs and sustainability principles, Sunreef Yachts establishes itself as a trailblazer in the Asian market. This initiative marks a promising era for the brand and sets a new benchmark for the evolution of yachting in the region.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; rleine/unsplash.com
April 3, 2025
Northrop & Johnson announces the successful sale of the 51-meter Sapphire, a Trinity-built motor yacht, through Boathouse Auctions. Represented by Yacht Brokers Sean Doyle and Wes Sanford, Sapphire attracted serious interest from qualified buyers leading up to the auction, reflecting her strong market appeal.Delivered in 2009 and constructed using lightweight aluminum to ABS classification standards, Sapphire embodies the finest traditions of American yacht construction. The vessel underwent a comprehensive refit in 2019, followed by substantial technical upgrades in 2020 and 2021, including engine rebuilds and generator replacements. Recently completing her five-year survey, Sapphire entered the market in prime condition, ready for immediate use.A standout feature of Sapphire is her versatile layout, which accommodates up to 20 guests across seven well-appointed staterooms. This configuration makes her ideal for large families or as a capable mothership support vessel. Guests can choose from two triple cabins with queen and twin beds, two twin cabins with Pullman berths, and additional cabins on the main and bridge decks. The bridge-deck master suite stands out with its luxurious ensuite bath, soothing bathtub, and direct access to a private exterior deck.Zero-speed stabilizers and a shallow draft ensure smooth cruising and easy navigation to popular destinations like Florida and The Bahamas. With a 4,000-nautical-mile range, Sapphire is equally adept at long-distance travel.Outdoor spaces are carefully designed for leisure and entertainment. The sundeck boasts a relaxing hot tub, a well-stocked bar, and multiple lounging and dining options. Other al fresco areas include the Portuguese bridge, bridge deck aft lounge, and a spacious main deck aft dining table. Thoughtful integration of tender and toy storage keeps the decks clear and functional.James McFarlane’s interior design combines timeless elegance with practicality. The main salon offers ample seating, a welcoming bar, and a formal dining area for 14 guests, enhanced by an abundance of natural light. Forward of the salon lies a multipurpose bonus room that can serve as a playroom or an extra VIP suite.Featuring a proven platform, recent technical improvements, and generous accommodations, Sapphire presents an attractive option for experienced yacht owners seeking a capable, family-focused superyacht.Credits: Northrop & Johnson
April 3, 2025