Aston Martin and Dutch boat builder Quintessence Yachts revealed the 37-foot Aston Martin AM37 powerboat in April 2016. Now the vessel made its world debut in Monaco, marking the luxury British brand’s entry into the nautical world. The new day-cruiser is offered in two versions with the AM37S expected to reach speeds of 50 knots.
The AM37 is the result of two years of research and development, challenging the status quo of the nautical world and combining the best in innovative technology and bespoke craftsmanship. The AM37 was a true team effort, bringing in the most experienced Aston Martin designers to style and create a truly unique product. Aston Martin’s master craftsmen who worked on cars such as One-77, Aston Martin Vulcan and the new DB11, provided their automotive experience, which was reinterpreted onto the boat with outstanding results.
Aston Martin’s EVP & Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman and his design team collaborated closely with naval architect Mulder Design to ensure every element of the project was carefully considered. Sharing creative expertise and specialist skills, Quintessence Yachts engineered the Aston Martin design into an innovative powerboat for the yachting world.
Reichman commented:
AM37 is a pure translation of the Aston Martin DNA into an entirely new maritime concept. The powerboat reflects our values in terms of power, beauty and soul. The most important attribute for Aston Martin is the design language and proportion, we have transferred this DNA into AM37. It was important to us when considering this project to make sure that the boat design was as beautiful and timeless as our cars, the AM37 is a striking boat with fantastic proportion and elegance
The AM37 is a day cruiser that can be transformed into an overnight berth by transforming the table into a comfortable bed. The cabin is well appointed with mood lighting and air-conditioning. With a refrigerator, microwave oven and coffee machine – and a lavatory on board, absolute comfort is guaranteed. Crafted from the finest leathers, elegantly laid out rear seating is available for up to eight people.
The exterior of AM37 features dynamic proportions in a design that is simple, yet immaculately executed. The boat is set apart by the attention to detail in every element of its design. The wraparound windscreen has been created from a single piece of sculpted glass fluidly draped over the AM37’s foredeck. With extreme double curvature it sets a new industry standard. Sliding deck technology allows owners to cover the cockpit of the boat completely at the touch of a button. The three lightweight carbon panels, operated by the AM37 key, fold under the aft deck when the cockpit is uncovered. An electro-hydraulic carbon fibre bimini top is stowed under the engine hatch when not in use and, extending from the aft deck, a swim platform allows for easy access to the water.
At the helm, the AM37’s carbon fibre dashboard echoes styling elements from Aston Martin’s most advanced sports cars. It includes fine leather with functional features, such as the steering wheel, throttle handles and joystick in polished metals. The boat’s navigation, control monitor and entertainment systems are all integrated, with advanced multimedia functions.
CEO for Quintessence Yachts, Mariella Mengozzi said:
It’s been an exciting journey and we have relished partnering with Aston Martin on such a special project that blends craftsmanship with futuristic technology – the perfect mix for this unique powerboat. We took on the challenge to create a true revolution on the water and an extraordinary powerboat, and I’m delighted to present the AM37, a new way of experiencing life at sea
The 37-foot model is available in two versions – the AM37 with an estimated top speed of 45 knots and a choice of two 370 hp Mercury diesel or two 430 hp Mercury petrol engines. And the AM37S version with an estimated 50 knots derived from its twin 520 hp Mercury petrol engines.
Katia Bassi, VP of AML & Managing Director of AM Brands commented:
We are so proud to present the AM37, an exclusive powerboat for the yachting world. With this project Aston Martin, the icon of style and technological innovation, confirms its place as a top luxury brand. The Aston Martin Art of Living is a way of life that captures the very essence of the Aston Martin brand, and AM37 is a fine example of this philosophy
In a splendid ceremony on a sunny and breezy day in Cape Town, SW108#02 Kiboko 4 was unveiled to the delight of her proud owners, the Southern Wind team, and a host of distinguished guests. This remarkable vessel marks the fourth yacht built for the owner by Southern Wind, reflecting his rich sailing history with its three predecessors.The owner shared his excitement, stating, “This yacht signifies an evolution for me – drawing inspiration from my previous boats while showcasing Southern Wind’s innovation in crafting reliable yachts with elegant and bold designs. Kiboko 4 features a lifting keel, an improved sail plan, and a performance mast, all aimed at boosting her competitiveness in regattas. I opted for a striking dark hull and mast that enhance her dynamic aesthetics.”Crafted in the legacy of her successful sistership, Gelliceaux, Kiboko 4 possesses a unique character that sets her apart. Marco Alberti, CEO of Southern Wind, emphasized the individuality of this yacht, stating, “Kiboko 4 embodies our Smart Custom philosophy, focusing on weight optimization, performance, and aesthetics while maintaining a light Mediterranean atmosphere in her interiors.”Integral to Kiboko 4's construction was her captain, whose collaboration with the shipyard ensured that the yacht met the owner's high expectations, particularly regarding systems and mechanical details.Looking to the future, the owner envisions Kiboko 4 as a family yacht for Mediterranean summers and his first transatlantic journey to the Caribbean, with dreams of exploration in Maine as well. As Marco Alberti reflected, “It is a privilege to create another yacht for this owner, strengthening our friendship while showcasing Southern Wind’s dedication to excellence in yacht craftsmanship.” Southern Wind is a boutique bluewater sailing yacht shipyard founded in Cape Town in 1991. Since its foundation, SWS has specialized in the production of semi-custom high-performance superyachts. Credits: Southern Wind
November 27, 2024
The Otam 90 GTS, known as Sexy Me has taken the spotlight at autumn boat shows thanks to its exhilarating top speed of over 45 knots and its strikingly clean profile, offering a perfect blend of elegance and balance. This acclaimed 28-metre yacht sets the standard for the series, complemented by the newly launched Hard-Top and T-Top models that share its timeless design.Otam 90 T-Top model“Our goal with the Otam 90 series is to cater to a diverse clientele,” explains Matteo Belardinelli, Otam’s Sales and Communication Manager. “Each model is tailored for specific experiences: the dynamic Sexy Me GTS serves as an ideal Day Boat or Party Boat, while the Hard-Top is perfect for traditional family trips or charters, featuring a closed lounge and robust main deck. The innovative T-Top, designed for mega yacht chase purposes, offers extensive customisation options to redefine this market segment.”A hallmark of the Otam brand is extreme customisation and exclusivity, showcasing the Italian shipyard’s expertise in bespoke yacht construction that meets the unique demands of discerning owners. The Otam 90 series exemplifies Italian craftsmanship, delivering unparalleled design and engineering under the ethos of “Made in Italy.”Otam 90 T-Top modelDesigned in collaboration with the esteemed Giuseppe Bagnardi and Marine Design & Services, the Otam 90 series maintains the shipyard's tradition of versatile hulls and decks engineered for maximum performance in various sea conditions. Each model in the series upholds this commitment while allowing limitless options for bespoke internal and external layouts, enabling customers to express their individuality.Otam 90 Hard-Top modelDespite its chic exterior, the Otam 90 series maximizes interior space without sacrificing quality or comfort, offering layouts with 2, 3, or 4 VIP cabins, a separate galley, and crew accommodations with private access. “We’ve achieved an impressive 2.10-meter indoor height throughout the lower deck, ensuring an exceptional quality of life,” Belardinelli asserts, emphasizing the design’s focus on unobstructed views and ample daylight.The meticulous weight distribution allows for expansive structural glass used in large, single pieces, enhancing the visual experience in both the GTS and Hard-Top models, which include a spacious sliding roof. The innovative cockpit features folding side panels, expanding the space by nearly 3 meters on each side, creating an open, airy environment.Otam 90 T-Top modelIdeal not just as a chase boat for mega yachts, the T-Top version is designed for day trips as well, offering a perfect open-boat experience while also providing options for extended journeys. Its integrated design flows seamlessly from the windshield to provide complete protection for the helm.Conversely, the Hard-Top model offers a substantial enclosed space on the main deck with an advanced sliding door that fully opens the cockpit, perfectly merging the indoor and outdoor experience. The HT version allows for a formal dining room and offers privacy while enabling immediate transformation into an open space with just the press of a button.Otam 90 Hard-Top modelBelardinelli notes, “The HT model's flexibility is remarkable, allowing for an optimal quality of life and adaptability that suits the number of guests and weather conditions. It can easily convert to a spacious open yacht and back, demonstrating extraordinary versatility for families and charters.”Among the standout features of the Otam 90 series are the rotating gangway for side mooring, generous 50 cm walkways for easy bow access, and a spacious 4.35 m tender garage. The shipyard is committed to fulfilling unique client requests, allowing for bespoke layouts that reflect the owner’s style.Otam 90 Hard-Top modelThe shipyard’s history started in 1954 in Liguria. Its professionalism is what made it stand out, very quickly becoming the first authorized Riva yacht Service Center for the Med Sea. In the 80’s Otam fit around 25 yachts for an American builder before starting his own production of Otam 45’ and 55’, earning significant attention. Today Otam has produced around 90 yachts, becoming an Italian specialist, and, together with its custom range, offers a limitless choice between 45’ and 130’.Credits: Otam
November 27, 2024
The Wider shipyard is once again setting new standards in yacht design with the development of the all-new WiderCat 76, currently being constructed at the cutting-edge Wider Vision Hub in Fano, Italy.Similar to her larger counterpart, the WiderCat 92, the WiderCat 76 redefines luxury living at sea, emphasizing versatility, functionality, and cruising comfort. Designed by Luca Dini Design & Architecture in collaboration with Wider’s Centro Stile, this latest catamaran boasts striking exterior and interior aesthetics.“The WiderCat 76 combines the grandeur of a superyacht with the nimbleness of a smaller vessel—a perfect blend of innovative design, advanced technology, and exceptional craftsmanship,” states Marcello Maggi, President of W-Fin Sarl. “We believe so strongly in its appeal that we are building the first unit on speculation, anticipating that she will launch next year.”To this point, the assembly of the substantial GRP structures has been completed successfully, including the installation of the deck and superstructure, which features an impressive hardtop. The hull and deck have been painted and finished, while the superstructure and hardtop are currently in the preparatory phase ahead of painting. Key plumbing systems, including main hydraulic piping, fresh water, grey water, black water, fuel, and HVAC, have been installed, and work continues on the main machinery within the engine room. Progress is also being made on the lower deck accommodations, with outfitting advancing significantly.The WiderCat 76 is powered by two FPT motors, each delivering 456 kW, paired with a cutting-edge battery pack managed by a sophisticated Power Management System that closely monitors operating parameters. This innovative propulsion system enables the yacht to achieve a maximum speed of 13 knots and stay at anchor for up to nine hours without the need to run the engines.Emphasizing the shipyard's commitment to stylistic innovation, the yacht's interior features a reinterpreted "Hampton" style enriched with a unique nautical twist. The four-cabin layout provides spacious and functional living areas that capture the family-friendly essence of the larger WiderCat 92 while offering luxurious amenities for a comfortable retreat at sea.The main deck boasts a roomy living area complete with an L-shaped sofa and dining space, both offering breathtaking sea views through expansive windows. Elegant materials, such as ivory-lacquered panels, dark oak ceilings, and herringbone parquet flooring, contribute to a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere.The master stateroom, positioned on the main deck, provides stunning panoramic views, private access to a forward terrace, and a lavish ensuite featuring a marble-topped vanity and panoramic shower. Below deck, the VIP and guest cabins deliver privacy and comfort, while the spacious galley and dinette are designed for both efficient meal preparation and delightful gatherings.Outdoor spaces are equally captivating. The upper deck includes a sheltered dining area, helm station, and lounging spaces, while the main deck features a deployable swim platform, a dining cockpit, and a bow relaxation zone adorned with C-shaped sofas.Founded in 2010 and based in Ancona (Le Marche), Wider Yachts is an innovative Italian yacht builder shipbuilder specialized in electric and renewable energy-powered superyachts. Credit: Wider
November 27, 2024
On November 22, Gruppo Antonini celebrated the launch of the Maboqueiro Off-Shore platform during a ceremony at its production facility in La Spezia. The event was graced by notable figures, including Patrizia Saccone, La Spezia’s Councillor for Employment and Economic Development, and Lerici’s Deputy Mayor Marco Russo, along with members of the academic community from the Università di Genova.This impressive platform, marking over 80 years of Gruppo Antonini's expertise in the oil and gas industry, has been designed for gas extraction in the Maboqueiro field, located off the coast of Angola. It stands as the largest and heaviest structure ever constructed by the Group and is a significant achievement in their first EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) project undertaken for Azule Energy, a key player in Angola’s oil and gas sector, co-owned by ENI. The project’s complexity necessitated an extensive 24-month tender process due to the vastness of the construction and its numerous interfaces.The Maboqueiro EPC project is integral to the Angola NGC (New Gas Consortium) Project, which aims to extract gas condensate from the Quiluma and Maboqueiro fields. This venture includes plans for two platforms, a new onshore gas reception and treatment facility, as well as pipelines for product transportation, with production set to begin in 2026, targeting an output of 330 million cubic feet of gas daily, equating to approximately 4 billion cubic metres per year.The newly launched Maboqueiro platform features a jacket comprising steel tubular components anchored to the seabed with four impressive 88-metre-long piles. The structure also boasts a three-story deck measuring 25 by 30 metres and weighing a remarkable 2,600 tonnes, making it the heaviest platform ever produced by the Group. Equipped with six well slots (four operational and two backup), the platform is designed to operate at a gas pressure of 60 bars.A standout feature of this project is the innovative jacket lifting method, a first for Gruppo Antonini, utilizing a specially designed system to erect jacket components in a confined space, successfully addressing significant logistical hurdles.Additionally, the project has embraced digital innovation, with all quality reports fully digitalized and managed through a specialized software package known as CCMS, which oversees various operations, including maintenance.Simone Antonini, Group CEO, remarked, "The Maboqueiro project signifies a monumental achievement that showcases our capacity to tackle complex global challenges. This platform not only sets a record in size and technological advancement but also exemplifies our commitment to integrating engineering expertise with sustainability and efficiency."In 2019, the Antonini Group established Antonini Navi (La Spezia) in partnership with Aldo Manna, leveraging the Group's extensive experience and technological prowess to venture into the yachting industry. The yard focuses on crafting bespoke yachts and military naval units, currently working on three steel yachts over 30 meters in length, with two custom projects expected to be delivered in the latter half of 2025 and a third, the SUY 135, slated for 2026.The Pertusola shipyard in the Gulf of La Spezia was bought by Walter Antonini in 1977. Since then, Antonini Navi has been a family-held leader in superyacht custom build and refitting.Credits: Antonini Navi
November 26, 2024
Evo Yachts once again makes waves in the industry by taking on the world’s elite superyacht manufacturers with its latest creation, the Evo R9. This groundbreaking 30-metre aluminium superyacht places the owner at the heart of the design process and boasts a range of impressive features, all while building on the brand's established reputation for innovation.Designed to be highly customizable, the Evo R9 aims to redefine standards within the superyacht sector and represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the Evo Yachts brand. With enhanced customisation options and exhilarating performance, this exceptional vessel promises more surprises beyond its key highlights.This new addition to Evo Yachts' lineup showcases the shipyard's commitment to progress through innovation, venturing into competition with Italy and Northern Europe's leading figures in the global superyacht arena. The choice of an aluminium hull, coupled with a carbon fibre superstructure, aligns with the brand’s design philosophy, which emphasizes experimentation with materials and a focus on environmental sustainability.The yacht’s design, crafted by Valerio Rivellini in collaboration with Evo's technical team, features a striking superstructure enveloped in expansive glass surfaces, offering various layout options to cater to the diverse needs of potential owners. Clients will be able to engage in the design journey, witnessing their dream yacht materialize.The Evo R9 can comfortably host six to eight guests, alongside four crew members, ensuring privacy and versatility with multiple possible configurations.A standout aspect of the Evo R9 is its advanced propulsion system, boasting the option of two or three 2,200 HP engines, enabling the superyacht to reach top speeds between 50 and 58 knots and cruising at 40 to 44 knots.Designed for discerning owners who seek a bespoke experience coupled with high performance, the Evo R9 maintains the brand’s hallmark of transformability. Notably, it features sophisticated hull sides that open up, and a versatile stern transformer, resulting in a superyacht that is both innovative and distinctly aligned with Evo Yachts’ identity.The Evo Yachts shipyard is based near Naples. She was born in 2014 from a fortunate encounter between Blu Emme Yachts and the Neapolitan yacht designer Valerio Rivellini. The heart and entrepreneurship that kick-started EVO originated from Blu Emme Yachts, a luxury yachts refitting company. Blu Emme was created in 2013 by the Mercuri brothers, a family whose entrepreneurial experience spans different industries.Credits: Evo Yachts
November 26, 2024