Last Wednesday Feadship shared a video of 55m Shinkai during her first time on the open sea. Shinkai, a 55m true superyacht explorer with a no compromise approach, became the eighth superyacht to be launched from Philippe Briand’s Vitruvius Yachts studio, with construction and co-naval architecture carried out by Feadship De Vries, while Daniela Boutsen has provided her interior design.
Shinkai leaving the shipyard's Aalsmeer facility
It was a challenging journey – the yacht was required to have a three-person submersible for pioneering underwater exploration along with the giant crane required for launching and collection. Another challenge for the all team was to consider both a superyacht and an explorer at the same time.
Shinkai renders
“This is a special project for us, as Shinkai is the second yacht that we have designed for her owner. In fact, he was the first yachtsman to embrace the benefits of Vitruvius’s efficient hulls,” says Philippe Briand. The result is a 55m 974GT Shinkai that can reach the most remote places on the planet. She is ice-classed and stabilized by a vast mono gyroscope, which has never been specified on a yacht of this scale before. The 23-tonne gyroscope is particularly important for operations of the submersible, which needs a perfectly stable launching platform. It is also beneficial when navigating through waters at high latitudes, replacing conventional fin stabilisers which are at risk of being damaged by ice and flotsam, and are inefficient at low speeds.
Shinkai renders
She has four decks plus an observatory setting. The owner’s cabin is positioned forward in the superstructure, with an exceptional area of 73 sq. m and a 135-degree view through full-height reinforced windows. There are four further guest suites, while seven cabins for 12 crew complete the accommodations.
Shinkai infographic by Vitruvius
Being an explorer, Shinkai carries a wide variety of serious toys, such as her 7,400kg U-Boat Worx submersible for three passengers. The yacht’s design includes an extended aft deck to support the toys that make for a truly adventurous expedition, including 4x4 land vehicle, a large limousine tender, and multiple robust RIBs.
With Shinkai’s far-reaching cruising plans to explore the planet comes the responsibility to be environmentally sensitive in her operations, which Philippe Briand took into account when designing her hull lines. Even with the yacht’s generous displacement of 974GT, her hull resistance has been optimised to deliver a reasonable fuel consumption of 19.5L per nautical mile at a cruising speed of 12 knots.
Shinkai for the first time on the open sea
Shinkai having just completed sea trials in the North Sea’s waters off The Netherlands.
As the creative force behind Shinkai’s powerful yet elegant design, Vitruvius Yachts’ Philippe Briand was onboard to experience her performance.
Here, the designer and naval architect shares his thoughts on how she measured up to expectations during the critical sea trials assessment: “The cold, grey November weather presenting itself to us on the day of Shinkai’s sea trials could not have been better to test her unique blend of rugged explorer meets comfortable superyacht. When you first step onboard, you are greeted by the ‘tech beauty’ of her striking red submersible and its accompanying immense ‘goldorak’ style crane; and then your attention is drawn to the glossy silver superyacht before you. A true rarity, she presents an inspiring combination of styles and capabilities”.
“Shinkai’s full-height reinforced windows delivering an astonishing 270-degree view. Experiencing her excellent performance first hand, after four years of involvement in her creation from the very beginning, I confirmed to her owner by phone that she will be the perfect protective and comfortable cocoon from which to explore all the world’s oceans. And of course, Shinkai’s design efficiency and Feadship de Vries’ technology will help protect the planet’s oceans, too!” says Philippe Briand.
Philippe Briand is the founder and designer of Vitruvius Yachts Ltd. He made his name designing award-winning sailing yachts under his own brand name and building on that experience has led him to create a revolutionary range of motor yachts: Vitruvius Yachts with a range in size of over 100m in length. With over 12,000 boats built to date, Philippe Briand could reasonably be considered the most prolific yacht designer of our time.
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; Vitruvius Yachts
Greenline Yachts has taken a significant step in the marine industry by conducting its first full cryptocurrency transaction for the sale of a Greenline 45 Coupe. The deal, finalized at boot Düsseldorf 2025, utilized Bitcoin as the sole payment method, marking a notable advancement for the company.Greenline owner Vladimir Zinchenko noted that while the company had permitted partial cryptocurrency payments since 2018, this transaction represents the first complete cryptocurrency purchase handled by the yard. The process went smoothly, influenced positively by BitPay, a company specialized in cryptocurrency payment processing, which converted the Bitcoin into euros seamlessly.The buyer, introduced by Yacht Partners International in Greece, opted for an expedited build slot, ensuring the yacht would be ready for delivery in June. This accelerated schedule allows the owner to begin enjoying the vessel during the Mediterranean summer.This transaction highlights the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in high-value markets, as the buyer likely profited from the significant appreciation of Bitcoin since its original purchase. The buyer chose the Coupe version of the yacht, known for its emphasis on solar energy, with a solar array capable of generating substantial power for autonomous operation.Additionally, the yacht incorporates an office space instead of a traditional third cabin, leveraging solar power to facilitate connectivity and productivity while offshore. This choice reflects the buyer's preference for a tech-enabled, eco-friendly yachting experience.Greenline's move to accept cryptocurrency payments underscores the company's ongoing effort to integrate innovative technologies into its products and processes, further enhancing the ownership experience.Credits: Greenline Yachts
March 6, 2025
Maxim Yachts returns to the U.S. market, announcing its participation in the Palm Beach Boat Show from March 19-23, where it will showcase its latest project, the Max 44 R. This day cruiser, designed by Alex Cherigny, is equipped with three Mercury Verado outboard engines, generating a total of 1,200 horsepower, enabling it to achieve speeds exceeding 50 knots.Developed collaboratively with Alex Cherigny for design and Isonaval studio for engineering, the Max 44 R will make its world debut at the Miami Boat Show prior to its appearance in Palm Beach. Boasting a 44-foot design, the model is poised to attract attention among the anticipated 55,000 visitors at the event.Additionally, Maxim Yachts has appointed David Frazer as its representative in Florida, capitalizing on his extensive experience in the yachting industry and his tenure at Blue Oceans Yachting. Frazer will play a critical role in fortifying the brand's presence in the region and delivering personalized service to clients.This marks yet another step in Maxim Yachts' strategic expansion into the U.S. market, building on its growing recognition for innovative designs and high-performance crafts.Credits: Maxim Yachts
March 6, 2025
Azimut Yachts has appointed YL Yachtlounge as its exclusive dealer for the Austrian market, under the banner of Azimut Yachts Austria. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen the brand's presence and unlock new opportunities in the Austrian market, a pivotal region for high-end yachting along the coastlines of the Upper Adriatic.Based in Salzburg, YL Yachtlounge brings over 30 years of experience in international yacht sales and brokerage, specializing in customer care and service excellence. The company's track record includes collaborations with prominent shipyards and its involvement in the successful sale of the Benetti Diamond 44M M/Y Papa Joe. This achievement has cemented YL Yachtlounge's relationship with the Azimut|Benetti Group, allowing it to expand its representation to include Azimut yachts.Enrico Chiaussa, Chief Commercial Officer of Azimut Yachts EMEA-APAC, highlighted the immediate success of the partnership, noting the signing of the first sales contract shortly after the collaboration began. This indicates Azimut's growth potential in Austria and validates the effectiveness of the partnership moving forward.Austria holds significant importance for Azimut due to its affluent demographics and passionate interest in yachting, bolstered by its proximity to renowned coastal destinations in Italy and Croatia. The new dealership enables Azimut to establish a sustained local presence, cultivating lasting relationships with owners and providing consistent support beyond the peak nautical season.Günter Kapolnek, CEO of YL Yachtlounge, expressed pride in representing Azimut and outlined the company's commitment to delivering personalized and professional service throughout the ownership lifecycle. This partnership underscores Azimut's dedication to innovation and international growth, ensuring Austrian owners receive an exclusive and bespoke experience.Credits: Azimut Yachts
March 6, 2025
Northrop & Johnson announced the sale of the 97-foot (29-meter) Hargrave Raised Pilothouse Motor Yacht "Inevitable". Represented by Yacht Broker Elizabeth Swain, the buyer secured the vessel for an undisclosed price. Last listed at $1.75 million, the yacht underwent extensive refits in 2012 and 2023, showcasing a modernized four-stateroom, six-head layout with dedicated crew accommodations.Constructed in 2003, "Inevitable" boasts numerous amenities, including an aft deck with teak decking, a custom-built teak hi-low dining table, and ample storage. Walk-around decks offer convenient access to the bow, adorned with large custom sunpads and an upholstered seating area. Upon entering the salon, guests are greeted by a warm cherry wood interior accentuated with nautical blue and white tones, featuring generous sofa seating and a formal dining table for eight.The full-beam master suite exudes comfort with his-and-hers ensuite bathrooms, a shared central shower, and dual walk-in closets. Additionally, a built-in upholstered sofa adds to the inviting ambiance, while a private washer/dryer in the foyer ensures maximum convenience. Other accommodations include two VIP suites, each with a queen berth and ensuite, and a versatile twin stateroom with Pullman berths, accommodating up to three guests.Powered by twin 1,400hp Caterpillar 3412E diesel engines, "Inevitable" cruises at 12 knots with a maximum speed of 20 knots. The yacht is equipped with two Onan generators (27kW and 35kW) and two 100 AMP shore power receptacles on automatic reels for seamless operations. The raised pilothouse, accessible via a starboard staircase aft of the galley, features a Stidd electric helm chair and a comprehensive suite of navigation electronics, including Simrad, Furuno radars, Northstar 941XD, and VHF systems.The flybridge, accessible from both the pilothouse and aft deck, includes a hardtop-covered helm with three helm seats, two large U-shaped seating areas with teak tables, and a fully equipped wet bar with a grill, refrigerator, and sink. Aft, the flybridge houses a davit lift with a 2,000-pound capacity and removable chocks for tenders or water toys.Credit: Northrop & Johnson
March 4, 2025
Grand Banks Yachts Limited introduces its newest model, the Grand Banks 62, at the upcoming Palm Beach International Boat Show in Florida from March 19-23, 2025. Under the leadership of Mark Richards, the company continues to push boundaries in luxury long-range cruising."This new Grand Banks 62 represents a new era in long-range cruising," said Richards. "It sets a benchmark for performance, efficiency, and comfort."The Grand Banks 62 boasts several notable advancements, starting with its sleek design and powerful performance. During initial sea trials, the yacht achieved a top speed of 30 knots and a high cruise speed of 27 knots. At a cruising speed of 20 knots, the total burn rate is 38 gallons per hour, demonstrating remarkable efficiency for its class. Its range of 2,000 nautical miles at 10 knots with a 10-percent reserve ensures reliability and versatility for extended voyages.Key features of the Grand Banks 62 include Twin Volvo D13 engines rated at 900 horsepower each, with optional upgrades available, incorporation of V-Warp Technology, which reduces fuel consumption by up to 70 percent compared to competitors. Enlarged starboard guest stateroom with an athwartships double bed, a utility area with a washer/dryer, and an en suite head. The amidships master stateroom provides ample natural light and ventilation, while the forward VIP stateroom features a queen berth and a dedicated head.Multiple interior accommodations plans can be tailored to owner preferences, ensuring personalization and comfort."The Palm Beach International Boat Show is the perfect venue to debut the Grand Banks 62," said Richards. "We invite all owners, media, and enthusiasts to visit our display at Ramp 8, Slip 224 to experience this groundbreaking yacht firsthand."With decades of experience and a relentless focus on innovation, Grand Banks Yachts continues to redefine luxury yachting with the introduction of the Grand Banks 62.Credits: Grand Banks Yachts
March 4, 2025