80-metre superyacht E P O C H advances the unique styling seen recently on Ricky Smith Designs last design ERA 80M. Once again, the work of Australian and Denmark designers marries technical advancement in naval architecture and progressive styling. Her unique sleek design by designer Ricky Smith seamlessly unites an eye-catching bow silhouette, panoramic windows and the towering cowl which protects the aft decks with a curvaceous line.
E P O C H features a high performance hull which cruises efficiently at higher than expected speeds for a vessel this size while still offering guests advanced seakeeping stability when needed. With over 30 years’ experience in naval architecture, shipbuilding, design and construct interiors, and major motoryachts project management Ricky Smith and Naval Architects Dr. Andrew Baglin and Stuart Friezer Marine (Denmark) designed E P O C H exterior and interiors to be a fast build major statement of progressive superyacht design.
The exterior styling is a definitive statement designed to appeal to an owner who requires above average performance and progressive yet unique modern styling. The General Arrangement features the Owners Penthouse and private deck. The Owners Penthouse is surrounded with a unique feature to superyachts; curtain glass. This ensures uninterrupted 360 degree views from all facilities on that luxurious level. A unique feature of how Ricky Smith Designs for these owners is the dedicated Cocktail bar and private dining facilities where the owners can entertain to suit large groups of Corporate clients or close friends without leaving their apartment. The owners’ apartment is directly linked to the helipad above, and by lift to the beach club on the lower deck as well as all other levels and facilities
The current general arrangement layout is designed to ensure the owner is offered ample space on all levels suitable for intimacy or large scale entertaining. The primary focus in creating the design is maximizing the owners and guests on board comfort and options. This is illustrated by guests having facilities on all levels for dining socializing and private relaxation.
Designer Ricky Smith plus Naval architect Stuart Friezer, Dr Andrew Baglin teamed their 60+ years combined knowledge and experience of yacht design to create EPOCH. The designers agreed at their first meeting that all technological advances in alternative energy technologies should be incorporated where possible, but not at the expense of the overall appeal of the design. Stuart Friezer and Dr Andrew Baglin analyse all designs using CAD, CAE, and C.F.D. programs along with tank testing to confirm these very significant design directions. Ricky Smith creates tailored luxury interiors for private clients and has worked on superyacht interior projects in USA, China, Australia, and New Zealand. Ricky Smith designed interiors of 2 "Ulysses" projects directly with the owners and created an interior fit out system which allows high speed interior fitout without compromising the end result.
E P O C H incorporates the hullform designed and tested by Naval Architect Stuart Friezer who was integral with the design of 2 World Record maritime speed records. E P O C H is designed as sanctuary, a private world where the owners and their parties can arrive and conduct business in absolute security and privacy, or simply relax and cruise the world. The Owners Penthouse level amplifies the essence of space and panorama with floor to 360 degrees ceiling glass with vast slide away walls. The arrangement of facilities in the Owners Penthouse level is centralized; atrium reception, stateroom, wellness centre and gym, cocktail bar , butlers galley , dining , media business centre and theatre lounge On the Main deck E P O C H offers a single Presidential suite style stateroom, as well as 2 V.I.P suites with attached reception lounges in which guests can dine and entertain in privacy. The remaining Guest staterooms are on the lower level In her current interior arrangement the interior design synchronises perfectly with the exterior, vast uncluttered spaces, streamlined elegance, contemporary, no unnecessary ornamentation. Her performance can be moderated to align to the owners preference, however the hullshape is capable of speed due to the reduced resistance. The styling of this high performance open superyacht guarantees the owner will never go unnoticed. The styling is a progression on the ERA design released last year.
Previous concept : Era 80M
E P O C H is not a just another surreal concept, the depth of experience in this design team allows such a groundbreaking design to be created. This yacht design isn't the biggest, but it can be tailored for 6-star charter operation or as a super-private and super-secure world for the owner.
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