Feadship has launched the 69-metre Samaya, the project completed less than three years after the signing of the first agreement, itself reached after only three days of meetings.
This is the clearest possible example of how Feadship can embark on a project guided solely by the inspiration of a client and our unrivaled experience. Confident of the stellar reputation of the Feadship yards, owners can rest assured that everything will go smoothly from that point on. We also have the flexibility to continue engaging with their ideas as a design develops: Samaya, for instance, grew by some five metres over the early months. This is the only way to ensure a truly bespoke motoryacht
Feadship director Bas Nederpelt
The owner of Samaya was hugely involved throughout the project, taking part in regular monthly meetings that lasted several days. This process ultimately led to a superyacht that is meticulously based on the client’s personality and the desires of the family. Their ultimate goal is to explore the underwater world in safety and comfort while contributing towards the conservation of the oceans and the wonderful but vulnerable species contained within.
Samaya’s intriguing colour palette was a major part of this creation. The primary coating is a subtle lunar white, which reveals hints of a warm pink hue during the sunset hours and will truly come alive in the different shades of light found around the world. This scheme is offset by a teal-coloured waterline based upon the colour of a rare blue-green fish the owner once spotted on a diving excursion.
The maritime theme continues with a giant backlit manta ray symbol on fashion plates which reflects the owner’s commitment to conserving this endangered species. The overall exterior profile is also inspired by the primary purpose of Samaya, Feadship De Voogt designer Jan Schaffers explains.
The owner shared stories about diving adventures as we studied shapes together to discover what it is that makes these underwater creatures so fascinating. Our conclusions were included in the design. A good example is the gentle yet powerful muscular shape of the side bulwarks, which echo the pronounced slender muscles seen on a bull shark
The owner will soon have many more diving tales to tell, most of which will begin in the dedicated dive room in the stern. Finished to the highest degree of sophistication (including a teal-coloured floor and metallic/wood ceiling), this space houses all conceivable facilities (including a nitrox-enriched air system) and is characterized by bespoke placement of everything from seats to equipment shelves.
While occasionally diving directly off the stern, the occupants will make lots of trips to outlying reefs using Samaya’s 8.8-metre and 7.2-metre tenders. Decked out in the same colours as the mothership and custom-designed for purpose, these large tenders are housed in a dedicated garage in the main deck and launched via convenient large doors.
Lots of thought has also been given to the divers’ return to the yacht. The main deck aft features a bespoke flat-bottomed plunge pool which will be filled with hot water to speed up post-dive recovery from the coldness of the depths. In a similar vein, all luxury areas on the yacht can be heated up to 30 °C rather than the normal 25 °C mark.
Brimming with attractive details, Samaya’s interior was designed in partnership with RWD and showcases the owner’s affection for a variety of international cultures. The guest suites have been designed for and by the owner’s children, with highly distinctive colour schemes and furnishing of their own. Another bespoke area is the ethnic lounge on the bridge deck where friends and family can spend time watching their newly recorded diving movies.
Samaya’s outdoor facilities are also impressive, ensuring that this Feadship will be enjoyed just as much while en route to the many places she visits as she will upon arrival. The sun deck, with a range of dining and relaxation areas, is a case in point. Large enough to become a true party deck, it also contains intimate features such as the two comfortable ‘top of the world’ resting beds nestled against the mast arch. Featuring their own ventilation system, these snugs can be closed off with a curtain to create a tranquil spot for watching the world go by or simply taking an afternoon nap.
As the European owner often resides in Asia this will be one of the many areas which Samaya will explore on her travels. Many will take her to isolated regions where little or no infrastructure is available on shore, which is why the yacht was designed for an incredible degree of autonomy and no limitations on cruising ability. The client made a sacred promise during the keel laying ceremony to cruise wherever it is possible to experience encounters with special and rare species – and to use Samaya as a platform that enables scientists and the media to produce material which will educate people and help protect the endangered species and damaged locations in the oceans.
CRN has launched the 67.55-meter superyacht M/Y Amor à Vida at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona. The vessel, built with a steel and aluminum displacement hull, entered the water during a private ceremony on January 23, 2025. Previously known as Project Maranello, the yacht features six decks and measures 11.80 meters in beam, with a gross tonnage of 1,450 GT.The exterior and interior design were created by Nuvolari Lenard, working in collaboration with CRN, which provided its expertise in custom yacht construction. The project was overseen by Moran Yacht & Ship, acting as the owner’s representative and managing construction processes, inspections, and contractor coordination.M/Y Amor à Vida accommodates up to 12 guests and 17 crew members. Its exterior styling is described as sleek and dynamic, reflecting the owner's vision and lifestyle preferences. The vessel is equipped with a hybrid propulsion system designed to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce energy consumption. A heat recovery system has also been integrated to optimize hot water usage for the pools and onboard plumbing, improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.Work on the yacht’s interior and exterior outfitting, along with testing and sea trials, is set to continue until its scheduled handover in spring 2025.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
January 24, 2025
GX Superyachts has achieved a significant milestone in the construction of its first yacht, the GX42, with the successful turning of the aluminium hull. This operation, carried out at SES Yachts near Tuzla, Turkey, involved the use of four mobile cranes and required several hours of precision work. The hull turn marks a critical step in the build process for the 42-meter yacht, which is on track for delivery in the summer of 2026.In addition to completing the hull turn, the build team has attached the superstructure to the hull. The GX42 features a raised pilothouse design with a curved hardtop that supports solar panels capable of generating up to 27 kW of power. These advancements highlight the yacht’s hybrid propulsion system and emphasis on energy efficiency.The GX42 is the first project from GX Superyachts, a new brand offering a range of vessels from 24 to 56 meters in length. The company’s founder, Vladimir Zinchenko, expressed satisfaction with the progress, noting that the build is ahead of schedule. The yacht’s naval architecture is by Francesco Rogantin and NAMES, with exterior design by Marco Casali.The GX42 aims to combine fuel efficiency with modern design and comfort, positioning it as a forward-looking option in the yacht market. The first hull’s progress has generated interest among prospective buyers, according to the company.Credits: GX Superyachts
January 24, 2025
U-Boat Worx, a Dutch submersible manufacturer specializing in private, research, and commercial applications, has unveiled new imagery of its Super Sub model. Designed for high-speed underwater exploration, the Super Sub is equipped with advanced features intended to enhance performance and user experience.The submersible’s propulsion system includes four in-house-engineered thrusters, generating 100 kW of power and enabling a maximum underwater speed of 9 knots. This speed allows for steep 45-degree ascents and dynamic underwater maneuvers. Its droplet-shaped hull and advanced wing configurations contribute to its hydrodynamic design, setting it apart from other submersibles in terms of agility and efficiency.The Super Sub accommodates a pilot and two passengers in an ultra-clear acrylic hull that offers 360-degree views. Ergonomic seating and a five-point harness system ensure safety and comfort during high-speed maneuvers.Developed as part of U-Boat Worx’s bespoke submarine program, the Super Sub allows for customization to meet the specific preferences of its owners. The model combines engineering precision with high-quality craftsmanship, aiming to deliver a unique underwater experience.Founded in 2005, U-Boat Worx has produced over 60 submersibles used globally in private, research, and cruise industry contexts. The company continues to innovate in submersible design with a focus on safety and performance.Credits: U-Boat Worx
January 24, 2025
Ocean Independence has announced two major developments, highlighting its expanding presence and strategic collaborations in the global yachting industry.The company has opened a new office in Dubai, marking its 16th location worldwide. Situated at the Dubai Harbour Marina, the office strengthens Ocean Independence’s presence in the Arabian region, a rapidly growing hub for superyachting. The new branch will be led by experienced broker Sebastian Dumitrescu, who has been appointed Group Director. CEO Peter Hürzeler emphasized the importance of a local presence in key markets, noting that Dubai offers significant opportunities across sales, charter, and yacht management services. G24 ClassicIn addition, Ocean Independence has formed a strategic partnership with the Giangrasso Group, an emerging player in the Italian yacht market. The Giangrasso Group, known for its longstanding expertise as a subcontractor for major shipyards, is now launching its own brand. Ocean Independence is serving as the global sales agent for the company’s new semi-custom and full-custom superyacht lines.Sebastian Dumitrescu and Peter Hürzeler The partnership’s first project is the G24 Classic, a 24-meter yacht crafted entirely of aluminum and designed by Arrabito Naval Architects. The vessel, with a top speed of 27 knots and a cruising range of 300 nautical miles, features interiors by designer Michela Reverberi. The yacht is tailored as a family-friendly world cruiser with elegant, maritime-inspired interiors. The G24 Classic is set to make its global debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival after delivery to its owner in August.G24 ClassicOcean Independence is also supporting the Giangrasso Group’s plans to expand its portfolio with two additional semi-custom platforms, measuring 34 and 45 meters. Hürzeler expressed optimism about the collaboration, citing strong market interest in the size range.With these developments, Ocean Independence continues to expand its footprint and reinforce its role as a key player in the global yachting industry.Credits: Ocean Independence
January 23, 2025
Saxdor Yachts used its press conference at boot Düsseldorf 2025 to showcase developments in its business, technological advancements, and product range. The Finnish company reported significant milestones, introduced digital tools for customer engagement, and unveiled updates to its lineup.Saxdor 460In 2024, Saxdor Yachts achieved a record-breaking year, surpassing €100 million in revenue. Within five years of its founding, the company has grown to produce over 500 boats annually, expanded its dealership network to 152 global locations, and entered eight new markets. The workforce now exceeds 600 employees.During press conference At the event, Saxdor launched Saxdor AI and a Virtual Showroom in collaboration with Younite and Cadentia Technologies. Saxdor AI is designed to provide personalized, interactive assistance throughout the customer journey, from exploring models to post-purchase support. The Virtual Showroom enables customers and dealers to experience the fleet in a photorealistic, customizable digital environment, offering detailed views and configuration options.During press conference The company also unveiled the Fathom® e-Power system, an advanced lithium-ion auxiliary power management solution developed in partnership with Navico Group. Available on the Saxdor 400 GTC and the forthcoming 460 model, the system offers a quiet and efficient alternative to traditional diesel generators, supporting high-demand systems such as air conditioning and stabilization.Saxdor 460Saxdor announced the global debut of its new flagship model, the Saxdor 460, set for the Cannes Yachting Festival in 2025. The model is aimed at customers seeking increased space and versatility, marking the company’s entry into a larger market segment.Saxdor 460Since its inception in 2019, Saxdor Yachts has experienced exponential growth, producing over 1000 boats and capturing the industry’s attention with their innovative approach. Now, with the introduction of the Saxdor 400 GTO, Saxdor Yachts aims to make waves in the 40-45 ft sport boat market, leveling up from the game-changing entry-level 200 and mid-range 320 models.Credits: Saxdor Yachts
January 23, 2025