At the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2022 CL Yachts presented to the world its new flagship, CLX96 SAV. Her aggressive and angular profile recalls the purpose and agility of hardy workboats, the 29.5 meter CLX96 is the world’s first Sea Activity Vessel. “The SAV acronym represents something uniquely different to each individual owner, reflecting the way they enjoy their time aboard,” offers Earl Alfaro, the naval architect responsible for CLX96. “Some will find solitude at a leisurely pace while venturing towards their far-off destination, while others take pride in the exhilaration that accompanies a vessel in this category having the prowess to achieve higher speeds.”
Her forward-raked windscreens on the main and upper decks are designed to reduce both glare and heat while also increasing interior living space. Combined with the expansive glazing, the result is an interior that is not only light and airy but that seamlessly integrates with the outside areas and seascapes with near-uninterrupted 360-degree views.
“In early 2017, CL Yachts reached outside the industry and asked me to rethink yacht design and yachting experiences,” says Jozeph Forakis, CLX96 exterior and interior designer. “They gave me a clean slate to conceive a new vision for the yacht of today and tomorrow. With in-depth research methodologies and a focus on intelligent design, complementing my passion for sailing and ‘outsiders’ imagination and dreams, the result is a vessel that departs from convention.”
While her bold double-reverse-angle profile and iconic wing-like flybridge bulwark are visually distinctive, Forakis explains, these elements were born from a holistic, functional reconsideration of the way to live on a yacht and informed by precise structural principles. “CLX96 pushes boundaries of innovation and yachting experiences with flowing indoor and outdoor spaces,” he continues. “Unprecedented amounts of light penetrate the interiors – made possible by advanced composite structures with lightweight, thin, strong mullions allowing oversize windows throughout.”
This is reinforced on the main deck with trifold doors to starboard that open the midships area to the side deck and bulwark cutaway, creating a near-alfresco dining area in the heart of the main deck’s open plan living space. This area blends seamlessly with the comfortable aft saloon and forward country-style galley with island and Champagne Lounge – the perfect spot for cocktails or nature-watching depending on where in the world your CLX96 has taken you. What’s more, the lack of pillars thanks to the ingenious carbon construction of the superstructure means there are clear views from aft deck to bow.
The sense of space and the inside-outside feeling continue on the upper deck, with the enclosed helm and sky lounge forward offering shade and climate-controlled comfort, and the huge aft sundeck area combining everything needed for outside living – sofas and dining table, grill, fridge and icemaker. The sky lounge’s electric windows can be fully opened to create the feel of a hardtop fly, and the aft coachroof extension that provides shade to the alfresco seating and dining area offers a sunroof.
In front of the pilot house Forakis has created the ‘Terrazza Portoghese’, a generous additional deck space perfect for sun loungers, while on the foredeck there is an inviting ‘Piazza del Sole’ – a circular aperitif lounge that converts into a giant sunbed. Aft, the generous swim platform makes for a perfect beach club, with the Z-lift central transformer section not only easing tender launching but also creating an additional terrace extension on the water.
Below, CLX96’s standard configuration offers four guest cabins including a vast master suite forward complete with skylight over the king-size bed, a full-beam midships VIP cabin with virtual skylight, and two twin/double convertible guest cabins with en suites. There are crew quarters aft for up to four crew.
The materials and palette include walnut for the walls, teak and holly soles for the main and upper deck interiors, black marquina and satin snowflake marble for the bars and countertops, and a range of textures and materials in off-whites, warm grays and browns punctuated with occasional orange highlights.
The hull itself is built to RINA classification, with naval architecture focusing on cruising speed at 65-80 percent engine load with capacity for occasional prints at wide-open-throttle.
Powered by twin Caterpillar C32 engines rated at 1,900hp each, CLX96 can achieve a top speed with a full load of 25 knots with a solid 22-knot cruise. Her 15,520 liter fuel tanks, meanwhile, ensure the range to explore far-flung destinations, and her 10-year standard hull warranty will give owners the peace of mind to go there. Her 1.62-meter draft also means she can sneak into shallow bays, making her the true realization of her Sea Activity Vessel rationale.
CL Yachts’ goal is to offer unparalleled experiences to the modern explorer. The luxury performance brand stands apart from its competitors thanks to its unique approach to design – driven by CL Yacht’s core value of innovation. Fusing progressive design with engineering prowess and state-of-the-art technology, every element of CL Yachts’ vessels are meticulously geared to steer luxury into uncharted territories.
Credits: CL Yachts
The sixth vessel in the Amels 60 series has triumphantly completed her inaugural sea trials. Making a graceful transition from dock to deep waters, this stunning superyacht has made an impressive first appearance on the open sea.
Introduced in 2019, the Amels 60 design has established a new benchmark in the luxury yacht sector. This award-winning model perfectly blends Amels' esteemed legacy with advanced technology, highlighting the ongoing transformation within the semi-custom yacht market.
Paul Deurloo, Project Manager at Damen Yachting, expressed his excitement, stating, "Witnessing the yacht in motion is always a breathtaking experience for everyone involved. The successful collaboration among so many skilled and dedicated individuals has culminated in this significant achievement, making her first sea trial truly memorable." This Amels 60 will remain at the dock until her anticipated delivery later this year.Damen Yachting, a division within the Damen Shipyards Group, was created in 2019. The division combines the pedigree and heritage of Amels yachts with a growing portfolio of SeaXplorer yachts and Yacht Support vessels.Credits: Tom van Oossanen/all provided by Damen Yachting
September 12, 2024
The highly anticipated 100 Sunreef Power catamaran has made a stunning entrance at the Cannes Yachting Festival. This remarkable vessel features an expansive main saloon, an elegant master suite with breathtaking ocean views, five guest staterooms, and numerous outdoor lounging areas, all exemplifying contemporary design complemented by marine elegance.Among its standout features is a partially enclosed flybridge that includes a custom cigar lounge, complete with a large 85-inch TV. The yacht also boasts an impressive 16-meter-wide walkaround beach club, which features foldout platforms, making it ideal for aquatic leisure and relaxation, alongside a cleverly designed invisible aft garage to house water toys and equipment.The 100 Sunreef Power 2.0 signifies a remarkable progression in Sunreef Yachts' commitment to luxury superyachts. With an emphasis on elegance, stability, and safety, this catamaran is tailored for luxurious extended voyages. Its commanding presence is highlighted by its unique power cat architecture and custom additions that enhance the overall experience on the water.The yacht’s interior is designed for comfort and sophistication. The main deck features a spacious saloon equipped with plush seating, a stylish bar, and the large TV, setting the perfect atmosphere for entertainment. The master suite is strategically located towards the bow, offering panoramic ocean views, a lavish bathroom, and exclusive access to a private terrace. Guest accommodations consist of five airy staterooms, each adorned with elegant marine décor and ensuite facilities.Outdoor areas include a magnificent aft relaxation and dining space, accommodating up to twelve guests. The flybridge's expansive outdoor areas invite sunbathing and dining under the sky, while the full-beam bow terrace offers an inviting lounging area to soak in the sun.Powered by twin 1,300 HP engines, the 100 Sunreef Power delivers outstanding performance, ensuring efficient voyages with extended range, stability, and a smooth ride across the waves.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
September 12, 2024
Azimut|Benetti Group showcased its financial results for the 2023/2024 fiscal year during a press conference at the Cannes Yachting Festival. The esteemed shipyard reported a substantial revenue increase, marking a climb from €840 million in 2020/2021 to €1.3 billion, signifying an impressive growth of 55% over four years.For the year ending August 31, 2024, the Group witnessed a remarkable 30% year-over-year rise in EBITDA, attributable to enhanced operational efficiency and business expansion. Orders accumulated since January 1, 2024, total €2.6 billion, projected to sustain the Group's positive growth trajectory through 2029. With a revenue target of €1.5 billion for 2024/2025, forecasts suggest continued double-digit growth.The Group's strategic initiatives in product offerings have yielded success across all segments and global markets, with order distribution indicating 40% from Europe, 37% from the Americas, and 23% from MEA and APAC regions. To bolster these efforts, Azimut|Benetti has initiated a €160 million investment plan for the upcoming three-year period spanning 2025-2027, focusing on crucial areas such as production capacity enhancement, research and development, and digitization projects.Azimut Fly 62Of this budget, €99.3 million will target increased production capabilities across the Group's shipyards, necessitated by the substantial order backlog. The commitment to research and development, with an allocation of €43.2 million, aims to advance the evolution of innovative yacht designs and technologies. An additional €13.9 million is earmarked for digital transformation, incorporating virtual reality in design and owner interactions.In response to market fluctuations, CEO Marco Valle emphasized the Group's strategic positioning, leveraging its robust order backlog and focusing on innovative designs and brand differentiation.Azimut Seadeck 7In product highlights, Azimut unveiled the Seadeck 7 and Fly 62, featuring advancements in fuel efficiency and design, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to sustainability and modern luxury. Benetti is set to present its vision on innovation during a conference, "The Shape of the Future," in Monaco on September 26, illuminating the path forward in yachting design and technology.Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. Benetti designs, builds and sells composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. The fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom to meet all the needs of the market. Benetti belongs to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Azimut|Benetti Group
September 12, 2024
The Cannes Yachting Festival has witnessed the introduction of the Silent 62 3-Deck Open, an innovative electric catamaran that promises to redefine luxury cruising. This unveiling marks the public debut of the first Open version of the renowned Silent 62 model, developed by Silent Yachts.At the heart of the design is a spacious 60-square-meter skylounge, which invites owners and guests to enjoy an open-air lifestyle with breathtaking views. The third deck is customized for optimal flexibility, allowing for various configurations. Options abound, from expansive seating areas and dining tables to potentially featuring amenities like a bar, gym equipment, or even a hot tub. "The Silent 62 3-Deck has captured the attention of boat enthusiasts, and the Open version enhances the benefits of the upper deck," remarked Fabrizio Iarrera, CEO of Silent Yachts.This new addition harnesses the iconic elegance of Silent Yachts, emphasizing sleek lines, spacious deck areas, and modern style. With over 240 square meters of usable deck space, this vessel can be likened to a compact superyacht that operates entirely on electricity, powered by a substantial solar array.In warm locales, such as the Mediterranean and Florida, the Open version of the Silent 62 3-Deck becomes a game-changer. Its striking hardtop, supported by slender legs, offers nearly unobstructed 360-degree views, while also providing much-needed shade. It features a well-appointed skylounge with a three-stool wet bar adjacent to luxury seating upholstered in durable, weather-resistant Sunbrella fabric, designed for comfort and durability.The design of the main deck transcends traditional yacht layouts; the aft area serves as a social hub, devoid of the conventional ‘cockpit’ terminology. Built-in couches promote lounging and dining, with options for grilling and refrigeration meticulously concealed for a clean aesthetic. The impressive width of 8 meters at the stern becomes a playground for water sports and relaxation, featuring a teak-lined bathing platform that conveniently doubles as a tender lift.Moving forward, broad side decks lead to a lounge area adorned with sunbeds on the master cabin's roof. Sliding doors connect the spacious 50-square-meter saloon to the outdoor living space, facilitating seamless interactions between indoor and outdoor entertaining. The saloon showcases a generous galley and a configurable dining area capable of accommodating up to eight guests, all while maintaining a stylish and modern finish.Silent Yachts remains committed to sustainability, with electric propulsion being a cornerstone of the Silent 62 3-Deck concept. The yacht is equipped with twin electric motors, scalable up to 340kW, paired with lithium-ion battery systems that provide substantial cruising capabilities. Cruising speeds typically reach between 6-8 knots, emphasizing practicality without compromising on performance.Solar power remains a critical feature of the Silent Yachts' philosophy. The 16.8kW solar array installed on the hardtop ensures ample energy generation. This capability allows for extended periods of anchoring without generator use, offering a serene and silent experience. Steve Bell, Vice Chairman, highlighted this feature, stressing that the quiet operation is highly appealing to owners, enhancing onboard relaxation.Potential buyers can choose between several layout options for the forward area, either opting for a spacious owner’s suite spanning the twin hulls or a forward lounge with ample lounging opportunities. Bedroom arrangements include up to three additional double cabins, each with natural light and ensuite facilities, ensuring that comfort and luxury extend throughout the vessel.Interior styling is customizable, allowing owners to select finishes that resonate with their personal aesthetics. The Silent 62 3-Deck Open successfully balances luxury and performance, reaffirming its place at the forefront of the eco-friendly yachting revolution. With abundant storage solutions integrated throughout, including expansive bins for gear and essentials, this catamaran is poised to make waves within the industry.Silent-Yachts is producing the world’s first fully solar-sustainable oceangoing production catamaran yachts. They are powered exclusively by solar energy and capable of cruising up to 100 miles per day. In 2009, founders Heike and Michael Köhler, who have spent 6,000 days cruising more than 75,000 miles all around the world, launched the Solarwave 46, the first fully self-sufficient blue-water catamaran after years of testing solar-powered propulsion, and they have been building boats ever since. Credits: Silent-Yachts
September 11, 2024
The Ferretti Group has kicked off the new yachting season on a high note, showcasing an impressive fleet of 21 stunning vessels at the Cannes Yachting Festival, including six brand new launches across its prestigious brands: Custom Line, Riva, Wally, Pershing, and Ferretti Yachts. This event runs from September 10 to September 15 and serves as an important platform for the Group to highlight its strategic vision and innovative product developments.Underlining the strength of its operations, Ferretti Group has reported record profitability for the first half of 2024, with a net income of €44.0 million, reflecting a 7.6% increase from the previous year. The Group’s net revenues from new yachts reached €611 million, a 7.7% growth, while adjusted EBITDA climbed to €96.7 million – a notable 15.9% increase over the same period in 2023. The order intake in the first six months stands strong at €514.4 million, contributing to a robust backlog of €1.5 billion."Ferretti Group represents the pinnacle of yachting excellence with the world’s most renowned brands. Our fleet here at Cannes not only meets but exceeds the aesthetic and functional expectations of boat enthusiasts," stated CEO Alberto Galassi. He emphasized the Group's commitment to long-term planning and production, aimed at catering to the rising demand for bespoke, larger yachts.This year's festival marked the launch of remarkable new models including the Custom Line Navetta 38, known for its impeccable integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, and the striking Pershing GTX80, designed for both comfort and exhilarating performance with its spacious sundeck and innovative SeaScape feature. Also making waves at the festival is the Ferretti Yachts INFYNITO 80, which stands out with its sustainable features and fluid design, embodying the Group’s pioneering approach to yachting.The heritage brand Riva is also making headlines with the debut of Riva El Iseo, a modern electric powerboat that marries classic design with cutting-edge technology. Additionally, Wally introduces the innovative wallywhy100, boasting a single-level layout and expansive glazed superstructure for a luxurious on-water experience.As it continues to grow, Ferretti Group is focused on expanding its tailor-made offerings, particularly in the superyacht market, while bolstering production capabilities at its various shipyards. With plans for over 25 new launches slated from 2024 to 2026, the Group reinforces its commitment to innovation and excellence in the yachting industry.The festival is further heightened with partnerships from renowned luxury brands such as Range Rover and Flexjet, and exquisite collaborations with Italian names like Dolce & Gabbana and Lavazza, making this event not just a showcase of yachts, but a celebration of luxury living.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
September 11, 2024