Arguably the main yacht show in the United States, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2019 is set to start on the 30th of October and last for a total of 5 days. In 2017, the parent company of the Monaco Yacht Show, spent $133 million to acquire a portfolio of shows, which included FLIBS, which celebrates its 60th edition this year.
This year, visitors will find nearly 1,200 boats on display across seven different locations in Florida, not to mention around 1,000 exhibitors. That all will transform the Fort Lauderdale city into a hive of on-water activity. The show’s locations will cover:
- The Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel & Yachting Centre
- Hall of Fame Marina
- Las Olas Municipal Marina
- Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina
- Sails Marina
- Pier 66 Marina (Superyacht Village)
- The Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Centre.
A new feature of this year’s layout, The Superyacht Village will be unveiled for the first time. Located along Pier 66, the newly opened 3.5-acre space will be capable of hosting yachts of up to 121 metres in LOA.
Yacht Harbour takes a look at the largest yachts on display at the upcoming show.
Charter in winter: from $1,400,000 p/w
The largest superyacht on the show, the 95-metre superyacht Madsummer is set to make her international debut at FLIBS after a recent delivery to her owner, a repeat client with Lürssen. First known as Project Fiji it took nearly 2,5 years to build her under supervision of the owner’s captain and brokerage company Moran Yacht & Ship.
With a 14-metre beam, the exterior profile of Madsummer comes from a British designer Harrison Eidsgaard maintaining sleek and elegant lines within impressive volumes. The interior design aimed at up to 20 guests across 10 suites comes from drawing boards by Laura Sessa.
The vessel's main trademarks are the 12-metre swimming pool and Jacuzzi laid on the aft deck, protected with glass bulwarks. Spacious beach club and spa zone with a sea terrace on the lower deck also belong on the list of Madsummer’s special features. The bow is equipped with a helipad, while the sun deck aft features hidden crane in the bulwark, able to handle an aeroboat.
The superyacht is available for charter in the Mediterranean in summer period and in Caribbean/Bahamas in winter.
Builder: Amels (2016)
LOA: 83m
Charter in winter: from approx. $ 1,353,400 p/w
The largest Amels superyacht to date, Here Comes The Sun became her Russian owner's 4th superyacht named after The Beatles' song. The superyacht features exterior design by Tim Heywood and interior style by Winch Design.
Amongst her main features are a 5.5-metre swimming pool aft of the main deck, an extensive 87-square-metre beach club area located right underneath with a sitting area, sauna and gym. Other amenities also include a cinema room and a large Jacuzzi on the sundeck.
As for the accommodation, there are 8 guest cabins on board and space for 27 crew. The six-decks yacht comprises 900 square metres of outside deck space and a garage capable of storing four jet skis and two 11m tenders.
Meanwhile, the superyacht generated one of the highest charter revenues during the summer 2017, estimated at €9-9.5 million.
#3. Excellence
Builder: Abeking & Rasmussen (2019)
LOA: 80m
Charter in winter: from $ 1,100,000 p/w
Photo: Dutch Yachting
The vessel is believed to be owned by Herb Chambers, American billionaire and the owner of a network of six dozen dealerships in Massachusetts. He is also famous for his collection of exotic cars. The automotive dealership mogul estimated at $1.5 billion by Forbes.
The sixth largest vessel of Abeking & Rasmussen, Excellence features both exteriors and interiors developed by the UK-based design studio Winch Design. Her framework relies on the same technical platform as the 81-metre Grace (ex. Kibo), featuring a 12.6- metre beam and a maximum draught of 3.5 metres.
Key exterior trademark of Excellence is her striking and angular reverse bow, offering a silhouette comparable to a spaceship. Her exterior lines draw the eye to the bridge and owner’s decks surrounded by curved floor-to-ceiling mirrored glass, blurring the distinction between the upper deck and the panoramic skylounge.
With accommodation capacity for 14 guests, Excellence offers a swimming pool and platform, as well as Jacuzzi and sprawling beach club and impressive limousine tenders.
#4. Vida
Builder: Heesen (2019)
LOA: 55m
Delivered in May 2019, Vida represents the third project in Heesen FDHF steel class series. With muscular exterior outline by Frank Laupman, Omega Architects, one of the distinctive hallmarks of the vessel’s layout are french windows designed to get the most of the natural light on-board.
Vida is also the first yacht in Heesen fleet to comply with the latest emissions regulations, thanks to a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system that reduces NOx in exhaust emissions.
As to interior concept, the owner commissioned Be Design Associates, a design bureau based in Florida, for whom Vida became the first new-build yacht project. The yacht’s interior volume amounts to 740 GT, with the accommodation provided to 12 guests within five cabins on the lower deck and a 80-squere-metre master suite forward on the main deck.
Vida’s owner, experienced American yachtsman and sport fisherman, worked closely with the shipyard’s engineers to customise his new yacht and make her the mothership of his sport fishing fleet. Thus, Vida can refuel and recharge the owner’s Bayliss 60 and Bayliss 68 sportfish yachts, enabling the guests and the owners to spend several days offshore without returning to the base.
#5. Solo
Builder: Tankoa (2018)
LOA: 72m
Charter in winter: from approx. $ 665,600 p/w
The yacht was launched in August 2018, making her international debut at the Monaco Yacht Show the same year.
Designed by Francesco Paszkowski in collaboration with Margherita Casprini, Solo’s interiors represent blend of contemporary and timeless air. Her spacious main and upper salons provide relaxation zones with large plush seating areas, along with a dazzling baby grand piano and numerous entertainment options.
The yacht’s six staterooms can accommodate up to 12 guests, including a spacious VIP, two doubles and two twins. The master suite is fitted with a private terrace complete with sunpads and a Jacuzzi with panoramic views. On the skylounge aft, there is a swimming pool and a private dance floor, which easily converts to a touch-and-go helipad.
Solo’s beach club, meanwhile, represents a spacious and welcoming space with sofa, bar, TV, oversized glass walled gym with fold-out terrace, bathroom, sauna (also fitted with its own fold-out terrace) and hammam.
#6. Baba's
Builder: HSY Yachts (2019)
LOA: 56m
The brand new 56-metre superyacht represents a debut of the Turkish builder HSY Yachts on the international arena. The builder's flagship, Baba's was commissioned by an American customer.
The superyacht features exteriors by Unique Yacht Design, the studio working closely with another Turkish builder Bilgin Yachts on their two 80-metre projects. The yard’s in-house team has handled her naval architecture and interior design meanwhile.
This tri-deck yacht features a 10,4-metre beam, building up interior volume of 800 GT spread over three decks. Baba's has been constructed of a steel hull and aluminum superstructure.
The yacht can accommodate up to 12 guests within 6 cabins including a main-deck full-beam owner’s cabin, an upper deck VIP near the captain’s cabin. 4 guest cabins as long as 6 cabins for up to 11 crew members are laid on the lower deck.
#7. Broadwater
Builder: Feadship (2000)
LOA: 50.3
Charter in winter: from $245,000 p/w plus expenses
Broadwater was launched under the name Blue Moon in 2000, as the world’s first all-aluminium yacht over 500 GT. She features designs by Donald Starkey, along with naval architecture by Feadship De Voogt Naval Architects.
The 50-metre yacht features a beam of 9,5 meters and a draft of 2,5 meters. With her aluminium hull and aluminium superstructure, she bears gross tonnage of 692 tons. Broadwater's maximum accommodation capacity is 12 guests in 6 cabins.
The yacht completed an all-encompassing refit in 2017. The modifications included a completely new interior design refit by Adam Voorhees for a six-stateroom layout. In June, she was spotted at Feadship yard in Amsterdam, for pre-season deck and engineering works, according to Feadship.
Her maximum speed of 17 knots and cruising speed of 14 knots are provided with Caterpillar engines of 1500 hp each.
Nauta Design is thrilled to announce that the Southern Wind SW108 Gelliceaux has been honored with the ISS Award 2024 in the Best Sail 24-40m category.The prestigious Design & Leadership Award Gala took place on October 30 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, drawing together some of the most significant figures from the international yachting industry to celebrate this year's exceptional yacht launches.The Gelliceaux, the first in the Southern Wind 108 series, has been recognized by the judges for its innovative approach to sustainable sailing, featuring a state-of-the-art diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system. This unique project, designed from inception to prioritize eco-friendliness, sets a new standard for performance sailing. The judges praised Gelliceaux for its integration of modern design elements that harmonize with its sleek exterior, offering a cohesive and forward-looking sailing experience.Jim Schmicker and Jeremy Peek at ISS AwardsMassimo Gino of Nauta Design expressed pride in Gelliceaux's achievement: “We are pleased and proud that the Southern Wind 108’ Gelliceaux won the ISS Award. We extend our gratitude to everyone involved in the project, from the construction teams at Southern Wind to the talented Farr Yacht Design. A special thanks to the Owners, whose vision and collaboration made the creative process truly rewarding."Gelliceaux is part of the ‘GT’ series of Southern Wind bluewater sailing yachts, which also includes the award-winning SW105 Taniwha and SW96 Nyumba.As one of the first Southern Wind yachts equipped with a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system, Gelliceaux not only showcases impressive performance, having clinched the overall title at the 2024 St Barth’s Bucket and excelling at the 2024 Ibiza JoySail in the Performance Cruising L division, but also stands out for its striking aesthetic.The yacht's deck design is characterized by clean geometry that embodies the signature Nauta GT look. Its sporty coach roof, adorned with teak and a large central skylight, seamlessly transitions to ‘floating’ bench seats, enhancing both functionality and grace. A distinctive Z-shaped composite coaming gives Gelliceaux an agile profile, while the innovative opening transom creates a staircase leading to the beach platform – perfect for connecting guests with the sea when anchored.The interior of Gelliceaux is a study in elegance, emphasizing a soothing Mediterranean vibe with a warm color palette and refined fabric-lined walls. The two-level saloon features a unique lounge sofa that bridges both levels, contributing to an open and inviting atmosphere.Natural light floods the interior through expansive hull windows and skylights, complemented by soft shapes and rounded edges for a harmonious aesthetic. The expertly designed furniture appears freestanding, enhancing the open space feel and creating a cozy ambiance that is both stylish and sophisticated.Southern Wind is a boutique bluewater sailing yacht shipyard founded in Cape Town in 1991. Since its foundation, SWS has specialized in the production of semi-custom high-performance superyachts. Credits: Nauta Design
November 4, 2024
The Swan Sardinia Challenge, a groundbreaking international sailing event focused on the newly launched ClubSwan 28, concluded successfully yesterday in Villasimius, southeastern Sardinia. Running from October 30 to November 2, the challenge marked the final stage of the 2024 Nations League within the esteemed ClubSwan Racing One Design circuit. The Swiss team Anya Race clinched the overall Nations League title, followed closely by Japan's Swing, featuring Olympic gold medalist Will Ryan as tactician, and the French team Marcello. Swing triumphed in the Swan Sardinia Challenge, with Anya Race taking second and the American team Play Bigger finishing in third.Sailing conditions throughout this exhilarating week were idyllic, permitting eight competitive races among the five national teams. The final day showcased an easterly wind fluctuating between 10 and 14 knots before tapering off below 10 knots.Keisuke Suzuki, owner of the victorious Swing team, expressed his enthusiasm: "I’m thrilled to have won for the first time in this class. I’d love to come back again next year. With only five crew members, communication is crucial."Will Ryan reflected on the final race, stating, “We were very close to the Swiss team, engaging in a competitive back-and-forth that heightened the pressure. This intensity pushed us to perform better and secure our victory. The team did an outstanding job, showcasing impressive downwind speed that helped us navigate tight situations. It’s been fantastic to be a part of this event and demonstrate the ClubSwan 28’s capabilities.”Giulio Gatti, owner of Anya Race, commented on the competition experience: “I had a lot of fun and fully enjoyed the event. Although we expected to win today, that wasn't the case – congratulations to the Japanese team for their exceptional sailing. I hope to learn from them for the next event. As more boats join the fleet next season, it’ll only get more exciting, and the friendships formed here make it all the more enjoyable.”Cecilia Perotti, racing with her team called Out of Comfort Zone, relayed her thrilling journey: “It’s my first time participating in a regatta, and there were moments I truly felt 'out of my comfort zone.' Winning a race was an exhilarating experience, filled with adrenaline until the very end!”“The Swan Sardinia Challenge successfully extended the tourist season in Villasimius beyond October," remarked Gianluca Dessì, the town’s mayor. “This event has showcased the beauty and potential of our region during off-peak times, attracting visitors eager to enjoy the local beaches and excellent sailing conditions.”Giovanni Pomati, CEO of Nautor Swan, praised the event’s showcase of the ClubSwan 28, emphasizing its role in promoting inclusivity in sailing. Luisa Bambozzi, Managing Director of ClubSwan Racing, thanked the local partners for their support in creating a welcoming environment for all participants.Co-organized by the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, this event exemplified the spirit of camaraderie and passion for sailing, setting the stage for many more thrilling competitions in the future.Nautor Swan was founded in 1966 in Pietarsaari, Finland. The builder entered the superyacht market in 1999. Since then, the yard has continued building high-performance sailing yachts in three different lines; ClubSwan, Swan Yachts and Maxi Swan Yachts. Credit: Nautor Swan
November 4, 2024
The impressive 75.75-meter Feadship One, featuring four spacious decks, has set sail with a blend of elegant design and practical layout tailored for both private enjoyment and charter excellence.The vessel exudes luxury and comfort, with strikingly simple exterior lines crafted by Studio De Voogt. The sophisticated interior is designed by Paris-based Gilles & Boissier, renowned for their work on the prestigious Baccarat Hotel in New York.“The goal was to create a masculine yet timeless and elegant design,” explains Thijs Orth, a designer at Studio De Voogt. “The bold forms and predominantly straight lines are enhanced by subtly nuanced surfaces that reflect light, adding visual interest to the yacht. Our collaboration with the engineering team was essential to ensure optimal functionality.”Orth highlights design details such as the chamfered edges on the bow’s bulwark, which gradually flatten as the sheer line extends toward the stern. This design element is echoed in the widebody windows on the main deck and the white-painted superstructure.“To create a softer, more sensual look, we incorporated a pronounced tumblehome viewable from the stern,” states Orth, noting that this curvature continues along the sides of the sundeck roof.On the main deck, a luxurious full-beam VIP stateroom features a private lounge and an integrated balcony that can be enjoyed while cruising, making it a perfect retreat. This expansive suite can also function as a second master stateroom for charter guests.The master stateroom located on the upper deck opens to a terrace complete with a largest tub and adaptable lounging area. The elevated foredeck is designed as a touch-and-go helipad, while the garage below accommodates a 9.50-meter limo tender and a variety of water toys.The yacht boasts a large swimming pool on the main deck's aft section, complemented by a hot tub on the sundeck. The bridge deck features an aft-facing gym surrounded by wrap-around glazing and glass doors that open on three sides. Notably, diagonal teak decking has been introduced, adding a unique visual feature.In contrast to the contemporary trend of terraced main decks, One showcases a traditional transom design with elegant, sweeping staircases leading to a remarkably large swim platform complete with integrated swim stairs. Two inward-folding transom doors provide access to the beach club, illuminated naturally by the glass-bottomed pool above.With accommodation for twelve guests, including a master stateroom, a VIP suite, and four double staterooms on the lower deck, One can host eighteen crew members. The yacht is powered by twin MTU main engines, allowing it to achieve speeds over 15 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles at 12 knots.“We thoroughly enjoyed the design process for this yacht,” Orth concludes. “Achieving a look of masculine elegance is challenging, but One successfully embodies a robust yet sleek and chic aesthetic.”One is scheduled for delivery in early 2025, with Arjen van Elk representing her for sale on behalf of Feadship, in collaboration with Edmiston.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
November 4, 2024
Construction is underway at the Mallorca-based shipyard of Servicios Técnicos Portuarios (STP), marking the start of an €8 million initiative aimed at modernising the facility to accommodate some of the largest vessels in the fleet for refitting and maintenance.To address the growing demand for large yacht services, STP's expansion aims to elevate productivity and streamline operations while expanding the shipyard's capabilities. “We have frequently received requests for mooring spaces for yachts exceeding 100 meters in length, and until now, we have struggled to meet that demand,” stated Joan Rosselló, general manager of STP. “With limited options for large berths in Palma, the new dedicated berths will significantly enhance our repair services and improve workflow across shipyard activities.”This major expansion is poised to invigorate Mallorca's local economy, drawing more significant refit projects to the area. STP estimates that the expansion could generate an additional €50 to €60 million in annual revenue for the region.On the technical side, the shipyard's total area will grow from 130,000 square meters to 162,000 square meters, incorporating 102,000 square meters of land and 60,000 square meters of water space. This enhancement utilizes previously underutilised areas at the edges of the current shipyard footprint, facilitating further development within STP’s existing concession.The waterway expansion will introduce five new berths that can accommodate yachts of up to 110 meters, adding to the existing three superyacht berths. On dry land, STP plans to establish specialized zones for various tasks, including a new covered section specifically for mast removal, repair, and painting.Additionally, STP is prioritising sustainability by installing photovoltaic panels on the new covered areas and the parking canopies. The anticipated solar energy output is expected to power approximately 115 apartments and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 124 tonnes annually.The new berths will be operational by the end of 2024, while the rest of the works are scheduled for completion in spring 2025.Credits: STP
November 1, 2024
Royal Huisman announces that its impressive 59.7m high-performance sloop, Sarissa, has triumphed in three categories at the ISS Awards Gala held in Fort Lauderdale. The awards were determined and presented by esteemed peers within the superyacht industry, making this recognition particularly significant for the team.Sarissa has been honored with the titles of “Yacht of the Year,” “Best Interior Sail,” and “Best in Sail 40m+” at the International Superyacht Society Awards.Sarissa stands out for its state-of-the-art technology, exceptional naval architecture, and distinctive design, showcasing Royal Huisman’s commitment to innovation and excellence. Constructed using lightweight Alustar® aluminum and carbon composites, Sarissa not only minimizes fuel consumption but also enhances speed and maneuverability. Its forward-facing retractable propulsion system further enhances performance, reliability, and comfort, aligning with the industry's shift toward sustainability. Developed in collaboration with Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design, interior designer Liaigre, and owners’ representative Gregory Monks, Sarissa beautifully marries elegance with functionality, fulfilling the owner’s goal of an environmentally conscious yet high-performance superyacht.Congratulations are extended to the owners of Sarissa, along with heartfelt thanks from the design and build team. Jan Timmerman, CEO of Royal Huisman, states: “On behalf of our team, I would like to express our happiness and honor in receiving these awards. However, while we appreciate this recognition, we remain focused on our future projects, and we understand that a shipyard is only as strong as its next creation."Earlier this year, Sarissa was recognized as "Sailing Yacht of the Year" and "Best Sailing Yacht of 40m and Above" at the World Superyacht Awards 2024. She also garnered five significant awards at Boat International’s Design & Innovation Awards, including "Innovation of the Year."Royal Huisman is a Dutch shipyard established in 1884 in Ronduite, building and refitting custom luxury sailing and motor yachts at its shipyard in Vollenhove, the Netherlands.Credits: Royal Huisman
November 1, 2024