Arcadia Yachts continues to look ahead and has decided to confirm their entry into the world of steel hulled vessels with their new FOR.TH gamma, where FOR.TH stands for Forward Thinking. This project closely follows the yard’s philosophy, and together with Hot Lab Studio, the collaboration that produced the successful A100+ continues.
The first model of the Gamma FOR.TH will be 47 meters long, with a maximum beam of 9 meters. Contact with the surrounding environment will be assured by the use of large glass surfaces and open transoms on both the main and upper decks. Arcadia Yachts’ typical linear design is contrasted by an almost completely glass prism, of clear architectural inspiration, providing the interiors with a great amount of natural illumination. This conceptually extreme contrast is emphasized by the sharp modeling of the superstructure, whose fragmented elements create an appearance of distance, just like glass prisms. A light frame, in chromatic contrast with the rest, ideally reunites the shapes in a play of solids and voids that permits daylight to inundate the interiors.
Usable space is concentrated just a bit forward of amidships to allow for ample sunlit and shaded areas on the after decks, but the play of solids and voids, that literally fragment the lines of the yacht, suggests of an upward movement towards the stern, restoring dynamism to the whole.
All exterior design solutions reflect the maximum in conviviality. Design philosophy for the proposed interiors is based on a refined and contemporary open floor plan, clearly citing modern real-estate design. Spacious salons closely interact with the open air, doubling our perception; the proposed layout links interior to exterior in a relationship without barriers. All this on a yacht with a displacement of just under 500 gt.
The 78 sqm. sundeck is surrounded by a discreet, low level structure that provides a base for the slender hardtop struts. The bodywork is painted completely black and merges with the glass prisms that delineate the bridge windscreen. The solar panels are lodged inside the prisms, a traditional Arcadia design distinction. Here the Italian yard proposes the possibility of a transparent jacuzzi surrounded by a spacious “C” shaped sunbathing area located on the forward half of the deck, with two linear settees and a central table tastefully set on the after part of the deck. The bar zone is found in the central part of the deck, facing aft to serve guests on barstools next to the pool.
There is another bar on the upper deck, shielded by a laminated structure that lets the sun filter through when desired. One of the many solutions for the upper deck that the yard has also developed includes two facing “L” shaped settees. This configuration creates the quintessential convivial area, covering an incredible 43 sqm. The convertible sky-lounge is another distinguishing feature of the Arcadia style; the full-height side windows slide forward until they completely disappear from sight, while the settees are placed to allow every seated guest to feel the sea breeze. Light inundates the area vertically from several skylights.
Of great interest is the proposal for a separate dining area, similar to the typical layout found on yachts over 70 meters long, connected to the kitchens below by means of a pantry that assures precise and discrete attendance by the crew, without disturbing the guests in any way. Taken all together, 68 sqm. of space is dedicated to the guests on this deck. The upper deck is completed by the Captain’s private quarters, with direct access to the wheelhouse.
The layout proposal for the main deck’s aft area (totaling 90 sqm.) also ensures the maximum in use of space. First, the dining table for eight, sheltered and shaded by the structure of the overhead deck. Then, after a large ”C” shaped settee, a spacious sun bathing area with removable backrests, providing further seating for guests, with a beach club/gym located below, separated from the stern by a large glass door aligned with the swimming platform. This solution lets a large amount of light through and eliminates any barrier to the view of the sea.
Also featured on the left and right of the 53 sqm. main interior salon are full-height glass doors that open onto the side decks, while access to the owner’s suite is through the owner’s office. This not only increases privacy but also assures considerable acoustic insulation. The suite offers 51 sqm. completely dedicated to the owner, and also features a private lateral terrace.
On the lower deck, guests have two 29 sqm. VIP cabins at their disposition, with private bathrooms and studios. The guest area is completed by two 16 sqm. twin-berth cabins with private bathrooms. An excellent feature is direct access to the crew area, permitting the crew to service the guest area without having to use the guest stairs.
Spanish marina operator Ocibar has entered its first international venture by acquiring a 25% stake in Marina d'Arechi, a major Italian marina located in Salerno. The facility, developed and operated by the Gallozzi Group, offers 950 berths for vessels from 10 to 100 meters, along with winter storage and maintenance services.Antonio Zaforteza, CEO of Ocibar, stated: “Marina d’Arechi is one of the great examples of success in marina development in the Mediterranean and still has significant growth potential. Our alliance will further enhance this marina and integrate it into a unique value proposition for its customers and those of the various Ocibar marinas.”Ocibar, which manages marinas in Tarragona, Mallorca, Ibiza, and Valencia, sees the investment as part of its Mediterranean expansion strategy. The Gallozzi Group, active in shipping and port operations since 1952, welcomed the partnership.Agostino Gallozzi, CEO of the Gallozzi Group and Marina d’Arechi, said: “We had contemplated expanding the shareholder base of Marina d’Arechi and are very happy to have Ocibar joining us with a 25 per cent participation, based on shared values and principles of business ethics. Our partnership will propel Marina d’Arechi into a new phase of development.”Planned upgrades include berth expansion, infrastructure improvements, and the construction of a hotel to support Salerno's tourism initiatives.Credits: Marina d'Arechi
April 18, 2025
GB Marine Group, the parent company of Grand Banks and Palm Beach Motor Yachts, has named Lynn Fischer as its new Global Chief Marketing Officer. The appointment follows recent expansions, including a 114,000-square-foot factory upgrade, and aligns with the company’s focus on brand growth and owner services.Fischer, previously Chief Marketing Officer at private aviation firm Vista, brings experience in luxury and premium brand strategy. In her new role, she will oversee marketing, brand development, and customer engagement for GB Marine Group’s yacht brands.Lynn Fischer“GB Marine Group is not only a heritage builder – celebrating nearly 70 years of Grand Banks Yachts and 30 years of Palm Beach Motor Yachts – it's a company at the forefront of next-generation yachting,” said Fischer. “From its ocean racing-inspired manufacturing approach that redefines performance and fuel efficiency, to its use of advanced technology and materials, GB Marine Group is pushing the boundaries of what's possible on the water.”CEO Mark Richards stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Lynn to the GB Marine Group. Her deep expertise in building aspirational brands and delivering personalized client experiences will be instrumental as we bring even more exciting new products to market, expand our global footprint, and evolve our factory-direct strategy.”Fischer’s responsibilities will include brand strategy, digital marketing, global campaigns, and enhancing owner experience programs. The move comes as the company prepares new product launches and expands its factory-direct sales model."GB Marine Group owns and operates three premium yacht brands: Grand Banks, Palm Beach Motor Yachts, and Eastbay YachtsCredits: GB Marine Group
April 18, 2025
Itama has introduced the Itama 54, a new 16.44-meter open cruiser designed to enhance onboard comfort and living space while retaining the brand’s signature style. The model, presented at boot Düsseldorf, marks Itama’s return to the 50 to 59-foot segment.Developed by the Ferretti Group Product Strategy Committee and the Group’s Engineering Department, with exterior and interior design by Tommaso De Luca, the Itama 54 features a streamlined aesthetic with functional innovations. The exterior includes a forward sun pad integrated into the deck and a redesigned transom that provides 1,800 liters of storage for water toys. Access to the bow has been relocated to the starboard side for improved convenience.The deck layout prioritizes comfort, with a large aft sun pad and a dual-cockpit design. The main cockpit includes a convertible dining area, while a second cockpit behind the windscreen offers a sheltered relaxation space. Both are served by a portside bar unit. The helm station features an ergonomic seat and a floating dashboard.Below deck, the Itama 54 accommodates two cabins, two bathrooms, a galley, and a dinette. The master cabin includes a central bed with storage, while the guest cabin offers a choice between a queen-size bed or bunk beds. Interior materials include wood, leather, and fabric, emphasizing simplicity and functionality. Side glazing runs the length of the hull, contributing to a modern silhouette.The yacht is powered by twin MAN i6-730 engines (730 HP) as standard, delivering a top speed of 33 knots and a cruising speed of 28 knots. An optional upgrade to MAN i6-850 engines (850 HP) increases performance to 37 knots top speed and 33 knots cruising speed (preliminary data).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.Credits: Ferretti Group
April 18, 2025
Camper & Nicholsons announces the establishment of its fourteenth office in Viareggio, Italy. This strategic move underscores the company's ongoing dedication to maintaining leadership in yacht construction and design.Located within one of Europe's premier yacht-building hubs, the new facility will focus on new-build sales, refitting services, and comprehensive project management. It symbolizes Camper & Nicholsons' evolving approach to yacht design, aiming to set new benchmarks for creative innovation and superior craftsmanship.According to Paolo Casani, CEO of Camper & Nicholsons, “The rising demand for new builds and project management necessitated establishing a specialized presence to enhance client service delivery. The Viareggio office provides an advanced structure guiding owners throughout all stages of yacht creation, from concept to completion.”Led by Daniela Duck, Managing Director of Camper & Nicholsons Italy, the office aims to cater to the expanding market for customized yacht solutions. Beyond conventional sales and project oversight, the Viareggio branch envisions becoming an inspirational space where clients engage directly in the design process, shaping their visions collaboratively with experts.Additionally, Camper & Nicholsons is pioneering novel digital tools to streamline and elevate the design phase further. This innovative initiative reinforces the company's reputation for pushing boundaries in yacht engineering and aesthetics.With its latest venture, Camper & Nicholsons seeks to usher in a transformative period for yacht development, blending tradition with modern technology. The firm welcomes stakeholders and enthusiasts alike to join in creating the next wave of exceptional vessels.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
April 17, 2025
U-Boat Worx's submarines aboard Viking and Seabourn expedition vessels are transforming marine exploration, enabling unprecedented discoveries and advancements in oceanography. Powered by state-of-the-art technology, these submersibles facilitate detailed observations and data collection in previously unreachable marine habitats.Recent highlights include the rare documentation of the giant phantom jellyfish (Stygiomedusa gigantea) in Antarctica, marking the first publication of such findings by a cruise line. Other achievements encompass exploratory dives in the Great Lakes, leading to extensive surveys of historic shipwrecks. Most notably, Seabourn Pursuit located the long-lost Titania, a German supply vessel, which had remained undiscovered for over a century.Equipped with sophisticated instruments capable of diving to 300-meter depths, these submarines enable researchers to assess marine biodiversity, evaluate climate change effects, and monitor delicate ecosystems. Their presence aboard Viking and Seabourn ships underscores the synergy between luxury travel and scientific progress, setting a precedent for environmentally conscious exploration.Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, emphasized, "Every voyage provides opportunities for scientific discovery… Our expedition vessels and scientists have already contributed to research that might not have been possible otherwise." Similarly, Robin West, VP and GM of Expeditions at Seabourn, highlighted the company's dedication to pioneering exploration: "These experiences are a testament to the spirit of expedition... taking guests to places where no other human has ever ventured."By integrating luxury with scientific rigor, Viking and Seabourn exemplify how maritime exploration can yield valuable insights, enhancing global awareness of marine ecosystems and advancing efforts toward sustainable conservation.Founded in 2005, U-Boat Worx leads the global market in designing and manufacturing submersibles for private, research, and cruise industries. With over 60 operational units worldwide, the company prioritizes safety, performance, and comfort, continuously innovating underwater exploration technologies.Credits: U-Boat Worx
April 17, 2025