Released on a regular basis in order to inspire the next generation of owners – and those people who had never even considered owning a superyacht – the Feadship Future Concepts have had a remarkable impact since the initial one was unveiled in 2006. Many of the theoretical innovations first floated on concepts like X-stream and Breathe have since come to life in reality on award-winning Feadships such as Savannah. The name of the 2016 Feadship Future Concept says it all – everything about this fascinating new idea from the designers at Feadship revolves around choice. Of course, as the acknowledged leader in pure custom superyacht construction, the shipyard always offers its clients free rein when they commission a Feadship.
There are two distinctive yet interconnected types of choices available. Firstly there are the various options which allow you to autonomously explore the parts of the world to which your Feadship takes you in new and refreshing ways. Every yacht has a tender or two but none of them have had anything like the 25-metre co-propulsion units suggested for Choice. What’s more, while normal tenders often enable their owners to head off into areas otherwise out-of-bounds for the mothership, few if any let them stay there for as long as they like.
Meanwhile, checking out which spots you’d like to explore will be superb fun in the two-man drone on board Choice – and you can also go out and about in the detachable beach house. You will always know the best time to go too thanks to the Feadship Independent Control System (FICS).
These are just some of the alternatives you have for heading off board. Obviously, however, a Feadship is far more than a means of getting from A to B, and the on board experience has been similarly optimized. Choice contains a wide range of facilities that enhance the independent feeling offered by this transformative concept. From the louvre deck to the stabilized pool and sandy beach, this is a boat where you are spoilt for choice in every way.
Compared to a 80-metre Feadship cruising in, for example, the Adriatic Sea, Choice would offer 29% savings on fuel while providing 17% more time to enjoy your time at anchor. Although the resistance of the hull and the tenders combined is higher than that of conventional yachts, the ability to transport guests to the required destinations by the fast tenders means Choice can follow more slowly behind and catch up at leisure. You can choose to take a small unit when you want to speed up, or take things easier on the mothership. After all, it is the combination of big and fast that guzzles the most fuel. Another interesting side benefit of the Choice is the way it supports the crew, especially when compared to the current trend for using fast chase boats or a shadow vessel, both of which need constant manning.
Choice also sees the debut of a new revolution in autonomous control which has been
designed to relieve crew and let yachts run on their own. The Feadship Independent Control System (FICS) uses sensor technology and real-time online data such as wave radar, weather forecasts and traffic information to gather information on the surrounding conditions. Intelligent control processes deploy this data to determine how the yacht should best respond. Examples include defining the most suitable route to sail, optimizing comfort at anchor, finding the best location to detach the tenders, advice on using the beach club and pool, and notifying when it is safe to take off with the drone.
Ruud Bakker, senior designer at Feadship, said:
We haven’t quite reached the autopilot stage yet, but the way this solution communicates with the environment is optimized to the highest degree. FICS supports captains and frees up their time for other things that make the guests’ stay on a Feadship even more pleasant. It has also allowed us to dispense with the conventional wheelhouse:as an autonomous yacht, Choice only requires a bridge lounge with some minor technical buttons for steering. As is often the case with a Feadship Future Concept, one good thing frequently leads to another
The 70-meter Benetti superyacht Alfa has completed an extensive refit at Lusben, the refit division of Azimut|Benetti Group. Originally delivered in 2020, the full-custom yacht underwent a complete renovation coordinated by Ocean Independence, with interior design by Mark Berryman Design.The technical scope included full repainting of the hull and owner deck with advanced protective coatings, along with the mandatory five-year survey of all major systems. Engineers conducted thorough inspections and servicing of stabilizers, propulsion shafts, engines, and generators. Mechanical upgrades featured new software for the forward crane allowing independent arm control, redesigned bollards, and optimized stern platform fittings for improved tender operations. Crew areas received attention with complete overhauls of the side ladder, stern passerelle, and swim ladder.André Mahr (Ocean Independence), Gianni Paladino (Lusben), Simone Rotili (PM Lusben), Alessio Centelli (Head of site Lusben Livorno)For interior spaces, the UK-based Mark Berryman Design studio preserved Alfa's original elegance while introducing contemporary elements. The main deck now features custom sofas with integrated chessboards, marble-clad tables with built-in fire pits, and redesigned wall panels. The owner's suite received new cabinetry and finishes, while four new bars were installed throughout the yacht, including a teppanyaki station on the skydeck. A striking wine cellar now occupies the portside corridor, transforming a transitional space into a design feature. The galley was completely reconfigured with new equipment and improved workflow."The work on Alfa perfectly embodies our 'life cycle' philosophy," said Gianni Paladino, Commercial Director of Lusben. "Supporting a Benetti yacht from launch through refit demonstrates our commitment to long-term value preservation."Ocean Independence's Anton Foord noted: "This relaunch represents months of dedicated work by skilled professionals. The attention to detail and quality craftsmanship are evident throughout the yacht."Captain Simon Johnson, André Mahr (Ocean Independence), Alessio Celli (Head of site Livorno), Simone Rotili (PM Lusben)Following the refit, Alfa will be available for Mediterranean charter this summer at €700,000 per week. The yacht maintains its original configuration for 12 guests and 18 crew across five decks, with the refit enhancing both technical systems and living spaces while preserving the vessel's signature indoor-outdoor flow.Lusben completed the complex project at its Livorno facility, with Project Manager Simone Rotili coordinating multiple technical and design teams. The shipyard did not disclose the total refit cost or duration. Alfa's return to service follows several other high-profile refit projects completed by Lusben in recent months, as the Azimut|Benetti Group continues expanding its refit capabilities.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: Ocean Independence
May 19, 2025
Azimut's Seadeck 7 has received the 2025 Miglio Blue Design Award in the "General Concept" category, recognizing its hybrid propulsion system and sustainable design approach. The award was presented during the Blue Design Summit at Teatro Civico in La Spezia, Italy.The 20-meter Seadeck 7 reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 40% compared to conventional yachts in its class through a full-hybrid Volvo Penta system, carbon fiber construction, and optimized naval architecture. The model introduces Azimut's "Gentle at Sea" philosophy, emphasizing connection with nature through design elements like the Fun Island - an open aft terrace eliminating barriers with the marine environment.Interiors by Matteo Thun & Antonio Rodriguez incorporate recycled and recyclable materials, establishing what the shipyard describes as a new design language for family motoryachts. The hybrid system marks Azimut's first application of electrification technology in this size segment.The Miglio Blue Design Award jury cited the Seadeck 7's integration of sustainable technologies with experiential design as key factors in their decision. Azimut has not disclosed production numbers or pricing for the model, which remains available for order through the brand's global dealer network.This recognition follows the Seadeck series' launch in 2024 as Azimut's most environmentally focused product line to date. The shipyard continues development of hybrid and alternative fuel systems across its range, with multiple projects scheduled for presentation at the 2025 Monaco Yacht Show.Azimut Yachts is an Azimut Benetti Group brand. With its Atlantis, Magellano Flybridge, S, Verve and Grande collections, Azimut offers the widest range of 10 to 40 meters.Credits: Azimut Yachts
May 19, 2025
Feadship has launched its latest expedition yacht, the 80-meter Valor, from its Aalsmeer facility. Built for a repeat client, the steel-hulled vessel features ice-class reinforcement capable of navigating the Northwest Passage, with Bureau Veritas Young Ice 2 certification.Valor represents Feadship's most advanced hybrid propulsion system to date, combining four variable-speed generators with a massive 5.34MWh lithium-ion battery bank - five times the capacity of 2015's Savannah. The system enables 48 hours of silent, zero-emission operation using battery power alone, with optional Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) biofuel reducing carbon emissions by 90%. Twin Schottel EcoPeller azimuth thrusters deliver a maximum speed of 15 knots.Designed by Studio De Voogt, the exterior features a distinctive naval-inspired profile with a dreadnought bow and widened bulwarks that accommodate outdoor lounge spaces and even a dedicated relief station for the owner's three Golden Retrievers. The yacht's 8.35-meter infinity pool, heated using waste energy recovery, ranks among the largest installed on an 80-meter vessel.Bannenberg & Rowell created the interior using natural materials including custom bronze, stone and wood elements. Notable features include a main staircase comprising 48,001 individual components and vintage McIntosh audio systems. The layout accommodates 14 guests across six suites and an owner's deck complete with private hot tub, office and forward-facing stateroom overlooking the helideck."With Valor, we've achieved something recognizable from outer space," said designer Chris Bottoms of Studio De Voogt, referencing the owner's request for a distinctive profile. The yacht's symmetrical-thrust bow thruster and Quantum XT/MAGlift stabilization systems aim to provide comfort in rough conditions.Currently in final outfitting, Valor will begin sea trials ahead of its scheduled appearance at the 2025 Monaco Yacht Show, where it will compete for World Superyacht Awards. The project marks Feadship's continued development of large-scale hybrid yachts, though the shipyard declined to disclose build costs or delivery timeline.Additional amenities include a beach club with fold-down platforms, massage room, gym, and multiple al fresco dining areas connected by a six-deck elevator. The yacht's solar array supplements its electrical systems while maintaining clean lines in keeping with the owner's preference for a non-"wedding cake" profile.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
May 19, 2025
Riva has expanded its Destinations collection with a new lounge at Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá in Mallorca, officially opened on May 15. The venue combines Riva’s signature yacht styling with the hotel’s Mediterranean hospitality, featuring mahogany, ribbed maple, and steel finishes alongside iconic Aquariva lamps and Aquarama chairs.The lounge includes an indoor dining area and a sea-view terrace, complemented by a private Riva Privée area. Guests can charter a Rivamare yacht for coastal exploration, sunset aperitifs, or private dining.Located on Mallorca’s Illetas coastline, Hotel de Mar – designed by architect José Antonio Coderch – joins Riva Destinations’ existing lounges in Venice, Monte Carlo, Paris, and Jeddah. The opening event was attended by local celebrities, officials, and high-profile guests.No further expansion plans for additional Riva Destinations were disclosed. The lounge is now operational for hotel guests and external visitors.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
May 16, 2025
Feadship has completed its first two transactions through its recently launched Feadship Resale service. The sales include the 75.75-meter ONE (2025), co-listed with Edmiston and sold via Burgess as buying broker, and the 83.50-meter Savannah (2015), also co-listed with Edmiston.SavannahThe Dutch shipyard established Feadship Resale in late 2024 to leverage its technical expertise and historical build data in the brokerage market. The division currently represents six Feadship-built yachts, including the newly added 57.60-meter W."For years, owners have asked us to help sell their yachts," said Arjen van Elk of Feadship Resale. "We always directed them to brokers, but now we can offer something far more comprehensive. We know the yachts inside out – we built them."ONEThe service operates exclusively upon owner request and maintains collaborative relationships with established brokerage firms. Feadship emphasizes its role as a technical consultant rather than a direct competitor to traditional brokers, offering build specifications, maintenance records, and engineering insights to facilitate transactions.SavannahMarket response has been immediate, with multiple owners approaching Feadship directly to list their vessels. The shipyard attributes this to client confidence in its institutional knowledge of Feadship-built yachts.ONEThe Resale team now focuses on expanding its portfolio while assisting prospective buyers and sellers. No financial details were disclosed regarding the completed transactions. Feadship confirms the service will remain exclusive to yachts built by the consortium, with no plans to represent third-party vessels.The division's launch reflects growing demand for technical transparency in the superyacht secondary market, particularly for complex vessels exceeding 50 meters. Feadship's move follows similar manufacturer-backed resale programs emerging in the luxury marine sector.SavannahWith ONE and Savannah sales finalized, Feadship Resale prepares to handle additional transactions through 2025. The shipyard reports strong interest from both repeat clients and new buyers seeking verified build quality and maintenance history.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
May 16, 2025