Cinderella Noel IV Launched by Heesen

AvA Yachts has successfully turned the hull of its latest vessel, the Kando85 explorer model, measuring 25.7 meters in length. This vessel is currently available for purchase, with expected delivery slated for summer 2025 and is scheduled to make its debut at the 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival.The construction of the Kando85 commenced in June 2024, marked by a keel-laying ceremony held at the shipyard’s facilities in Antalya. This event was attended by the model's investors, SRW Yachting.Designed as a "long-distance cruiser," the Kando85 will be constructed using high-quality aluminum and steel, featuring thicknesses ranging from eight to ten millimeters. With an impressive interior volume of 200 GT, the yacht boasts a four-cabin layout that includes a spacious master suite located on the main deck.Svein Willadssen from SRW Yachting added, "Labeling the Kando85 as a 'pocket explorer' would undervalue her capabilities. She is a remarkably well-equipped and ultra-safe oceangoing explorer superyacht. We have great confidence in AvA Yachts' commitment to superior construction quality and the exceptional finish of their products, and we see immense potential in the Kando85."This impressive vessel will be powered by twin Volvo Penta D13MG engines, offering 408 horsepower each. The Kando85 is expected to achieve a maximum speed of 11 knots, with the capability to cover over 4,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 10 knots.AvA Yachts was established in 2005 as a naval architecture and engineering company by a group of naval architects who have experience of more than 25 years in the yacht design and engineering field. Ava Yachts has developed and engineered the designs of many remarkable yachts in a wide variety. Today AvA Yachts, with more than 5000 sqm closed yard based in Antalya.Credits: AvA Yachts

MCM Newport has successfully completed its oversight of the construction of the second Pelagic 77, aptly named Amundsen after the renowned Norwegian polar explorer Roald Amundsen. Following their supervision of the 'Vinson of Antarctica,' this latest vessel reflects both adventurous spirit and cutting-edge technology, having recently been delivered from KM Yachtbuilders in Makkum, Netherlands. This delivery marks the conclusion of two years of intense effort and collaboration by the experienced team at MCM Newport.Peter Wilson provided valuable insights into the project, stating, "Our role for Amundsen mirrors that of 'Vinson of Antarctica' as the owner's surveyor and inspector, overseeing all construction processes. We have applied all the lessons learned from 'Vinson' to ensure Amundsen excels."Constructed with an aluminum hull and superstructure, Amundsen showcases the expert design by naval architect Tony Castro. She features a notable 6.2-meter beam accented by a red stripe along her waterline, and is equipped with two carbon masts to optimize sail distribution and enhance redundancy.Discussing the choice of aluminum for the vessel, Wilson remarked, "Aluminum provides exceptional strength, ease of repair, and superior weight performance compared to steel. With Castro's design and Skip Novak's racing expertise, outstanding sailing performance is a key focus. A well-designed yacht is always more enjoyable to sail."Internally, Amundsen offers a versatile wheelhouse/staging area and control station, a generous lounge/dining area adjacent to the galley and navigation/communication suite, along with accommodations in six double cabins. Notably, she boasts several significant improvements over her sister ship.Amundsen is fitted with new, eco-friendly Volvo engines that comply with current MARPOL regulations.The vessel has moved from a centerboard to a fixed keel with a fin and bulb design, resulting in enhanced reliability and reduced complexity during long, autonomous expeditions.The engine room has been enlarged to facilitate the new engines and additional equipment, simplifying access for maintenance.Wilson elaborated on these advancements, stating, "In its relatively short operational history, 'Vinson' has proven a tremendous success, navigating thousands of miles through some of the most challenging environments in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. For Amundsen, we have upgraded the autopilot and steering system while making numerous refinements to the rig, rigging, deck, and interior to boost performance and reliability."Looking ahead, Wilson expressed his vision for the future of expedition vessels: "A growing number of sailors, adventurers, scientists, explorers, and researchers desire to explore the most remote corners of our planet. The Vinson/Amundsen program provides an ideal platform for such expeditions, and I eagerly anticipate my opportunity to board Amundsen in Antarctica!”The MCM team boast 35 years of experience across a diverse range of projects since the company’s founding in 1988 with overseen the builds of 106 yachts, including 86 sailing yachts, for a combined length of 10,776 feet (3,284m).Credits: MCM Newport

Zeelander Yachts unveils its new flagship, the Zeelander 8, a remarkable 23.9-meter mini superyacht that boasts a top speed of 40 knots while maintaining an exceptionally quiet onboard experience. Designed to accommodate up to nine guests in ultimate comfort, this luxurious vessel offers extensive customization options for layout and finishes in living spaces, alongside a full beam tender garage for added convenience.The launch of the Zeelander 8 marks a significant milestone for the boutique yacht builder, known for crafting a limited number of extraordinary yachts for discerning clientele each year. As the largest creation from Zeelander yet, the 8 retains the signature characteristics of the brand – voluptuous lines, effortless power, and whisper-quiet operation.Sietse Koopmans, founder and owner, shared his excitement for the model, stating, “Our newest model, the Zeelander 8, surpasses its on-paper expectations, showcasing an even more impressive presence in real life. Its timeless design remains uniquely Zeelander, blending classic elegance with modern innovation.”The Zeelander 8 is a testament to continuous evolution and design excellence, featuring a flowing sheerline, graceful raked stern, and wrap-around windscreen –elements that are familiar to the brand’s admirers. The yacht’s proportions mirror those of its smaller counterparts, thanks to the expertise of designer Cor D. Rover and the dedicated team at Zeelander.Deck-level enhancements offer more space for relaxation and dining, while below deck, the yacht features an exquisite full-beam owner’s cabin and two additional guest doubles, all with ensuite facilities. This model perfectly encapsulates the essence of a superyacht within its sub-24m hull.Cor D. Rover drew inspiration from the timeless beauty of New England lobster boats and classic commuter yachts, merging that aesthetic with state-of-the-art technology and luxury. “The epitome of beauty and style that Zeelander is today and will be for years to come,” he expressed.While the Zeelander 8 is designed for owner operation, it accommodates up to three crew members in cabins located at the bow for privacy.A highlight of the yacht is its aft deck, featuring deeply padded leatherette seating around a high gloss table. With the press of a button, the transom transforms into a spacious 12-square-meter bathing platform, serving as a private beach club. The tender is efficiently housed in a full beam garage, ensuring unspoiled space for relaxation.Zeelander is committed to allowing owners to personalize their living experience, welcoming various custom requests for layout and styling, from favorite fabrics to specific design elements.The builder's expertise in noise and vibration reduction ensures a tranquil environment, with onboard noise levels never exceeding 65dBa, significantly below the typical conversation threshold. The Zeelander 8 promises to deliver a calm, luxurious experience even as it reaches its thrilling top speed.“The Zeelander 8 is a powerful statement regarding the desirability and collectability of our yachts," Koopmans stated. "More than that, it exemplifies our commitment to exceptional experiences on water. I believe that the Zeelander 8 represents the apex of performance and comfort for the world’s most demanding owners. We've already started building the second hull, which confirms the model's success.”Zeelander Yachts was founded in 2002 in the Netherlands by Sietse Koopmans. The first model was unveiled to the public in 2008. The launch model Z44 received positive reviews at the Monaco Yacht Show and drew enormous crowds, despite being at an event dominated by much larger yachts. Within three years, the Z44 had been successfully introduced to the US as well as Europe, and it was an obvious direction to add a larger model to the fleet. The first Z55 was delivered in November 2015, and the flagship Z72 was launched in March 2019.Credits: Guillaume Plisson/Zeelander Yachts

Following a successful Monaco Yacht Show, Heesen Yachts has announced a major presence at this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (October 30 – November 3), with three yachts on display. The United States is Heesen’s largest market and the shipyard is excited to showcase its yachts to this growing market.ElaHeesen will be located at the Superyacht Village, with three yachts on display - the 2022 50m semi-displacement Book Ends, the 2021 50m FDHF Ela, and the 2011 55m After You, originally launched as Quinta Essentia. The three yachts sport aluminium hulls and showcase Heesen's unique expertise in construction with this performing material.Book EndsBook Ends and Ela are the most recent deliveries in the shipyard’s semi-custom offering, with both clients optimising the possibility of personalisation. The Owners of Book Ends have found the perfect platform to express their taste for design. The yacht features bespoke loose furniture penned by the owner himself. The owners of Ela worked closely with Cristiano Gatto to personalise the interior to their lifestyle and taste. After You showcases Heesen’s full custom construction and the longevity of the shipyard’s designs.Ruud van der StroomRuud van der Stroom, Heesen CCO, commented: “I am excited to attend the largest boat show in the world. The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is a pivotal event for us to connect with our clients and showcase our yachts to the American market. We are the only Northern European shipyard to offer yachts below 500GT with a fast delivery. The 50m hybrid Project Orion is available for sale with delivery scheduled for Q1 2025, while Project Sophia 50m semi-displacement is available for delivery in Q1 2026. Heesen’s unparalleled Dutch quality and craftsmanship, put us in a leading position.”Niels VaessenHeesen’s CEO, Niels Vaessen, highlighted the importance of the American market during this year’s Monaco Yacht Show press conference. He noted that the United States is home to 22 million millionaires and has a long-standing tradition and culture of yachting. Heesen has worked with many repeat American clients who have pushed the boundaries of the engineering and building teams.Thom ConboyThom Conboy, Heesen US representative, commented: “There is no question that the upcoming election has caused some American clients to stall on their purchase decisions. This is being reported across luxury industries and it is not surprising, especially considering other ongoing geo-political factors. Once the election results are confirmed, we are expecting a level of confidence to return to the market. The boat show is ideally timed for us to connect with our client base and showcase Heesen for when they do feel comfortable to invest in their next yacht.”Heesen Yachts is a Dutch ship building company that specializes in custom-built superyachts in aluminum and steel from 30m to 70m in size. Founded in 1978, it has launched more than 170 yachts since its inception.Credits: Heesen Yachts

Northrop & Johnson has announced the availability of the 72-meter superyacht Axioma, crafted by Dunya Yachts, for charter. This magnificent vessel will be exploring the Mediterranean during the summer months, with charters starting at USD562,500 per week, plus expenses.With her striking Sterling Scott-designed exterior and eye-catching turquoise blue hull, Axioma is sure to turn heads at every port. The yacht's stunning interior, designed by the esteemed Alberto Pinto, elegantly fuses bold aesthetics with the relaxed charm of a contemporary beach house. Axioma represents the pinnacle of superyacht craftsmanship and retains the title of the largest yacht ever launched from the Dunya Yachts shipyard.The yacht's double-height main saloon stands out as a remarkable example of open-concept living, featuring a mezzanine that amplifies the space's airy ambiance. Ample windows allow natural light to flood the salon, creating a vibrant yet tranquil atmosphere. The stylish bar and comfortable seating areas encourage guests to relax and socialize, while the media room on the upper deck offers a cozy setting for intimate gatherings. For those who enjoy cinematic experiences, Axioma includes an extraordinary eight-person movie theater on the lower deck, ideal for private screenings. Fitness enthusiasts can make full use of the bridge deck's gym, steam room, and massage area, all boasting breathtaking views for a true wellness experience at sea.Axioma comfortably accommodates up to 12 guests in six exquisitely designed staterooms. All guest cabins are strategically located on the main and upper decks, ensuring guests benefit from expansive windows, abundant natural light, and mesmerizing views. The master suite on the upper deck serves as a luxurious retreat, complete with large windows, a private terrace, and an en-suite hot tub. Five additional staterooms, which include a full-beam VIP suite, two double cabins, and two convertible twin/double cabins, feature unique designs and ample space for guests to unwind in style.The exterior decks of Axioma offers four generous levels for outdoor enjoyment. The main deck features a spacious infinity pool – perfect for lounging with a cocktail or for watching children play. The upper deck's aft area includes alfresco dining for 14 guests, making it an ideal spot for leisurely lunches or elegant dinners beneath the stars. The bridge deck boasts a hot tub with a swim-up bar, providing a picturesque setting for sunset cocktails while taking in panoramic ocean views, while the sundeck invites sunbathing, barbecues, and stargazing.Credits: Northrop & Johnson