On Saturday June 8th, the 18-metre vintage yacht originally built by H.R. Stevens Yard in Southampton 105 years ago, has been relaunched after a three-year refit with Francesco Del Carlo yard at the Darsena Italia in Viareggio.
The 1914 wooden gaff ketch, Tirrennia II is built entirely of teak and was designed by Frederick Shepherd, the British yacht designer who passed away in 1969 at the age of 100, with more than 80 designs, primarily cruising yachts, to his name.
With an overall length of 18.5 meters (20 metres with the bowsprit), Tirrenia II is trademarked with the so called gaff ketch rig, with the four-sided sails are spread using two masts, the main and the mizzen, for a total of 180 square metres of sail area.
Like many vintage yachts still on sail, Tirrenia II has a long history, though remaining generally unaltered and quite original. She had changed several names, before Guido Fiorentino, a president of the Naples branch of the Royal Yacht Club Italianoin, bought her in 1924 and renamed Tirrenia II. He also created a trophy in her name, the “Tirrenia Cup” that was awarded annually until 1939 to the yacht that completed the longest cruise in the Mediterranean.
During the 1970’s, Tirrenia II was owned by a retired Royal Navy officer and during the 1980’s by Peter Jesperson, the Norwegian professional skipper who covered more than 20,000 miles in northern Europe, across the Atlantic Ocean, to the Caribbean and Venezuela on-board.
In the early 1990s, the yacht underwent extensive refit, including the removal of the hull’s copper sheathing that had protected her teak planking, a completely new deck, and the removal of her Bermuda rig and the restoration of her original ketch rig. However, Tirrenia II’s briar root interiors were in excellent condition and still remain original.
Since 1992, Tirrenia II cruised the Mediterranean and assiduously participated in classic yacht events until 2009. Then she was kept at the Del Carlo yard in Viareggio. In 2016, she was bought at an auction by two new owners from Lombardy and Piedmont who brought her to the Del Carlo yardin Viareggio where she underwent a complete refit under the direction of Enrico “Chicco” Zaccagni.
The restoration was primarily concerned with the hull and the yacht’s on-board systems, while the rig and sails were renewed by Lucia Pozzo, an expert sailor and skipper of Tirrenia II during the early 1990’s.
All in all, along with a great concern with innovation and most advantage technologies
the yards do not refitting the classic vessels. For instance, the 1928 Fair Lady has been recently sold after 2016 refit, Feadship is rebuilding the 1954 dismantled superyacht Istros, or the 1965 Sherakhan relaunched at Icon Yachts.
Mauro Giamboi, an Italian designer, has unveiled the Edge, an 81.1-meter superyacht concept designed specifically for polar adventures. The vessel features a robust steel hull and reinforced bow, typical characteristics of explorer-class yachts.The five-deck, 2,450GT vessel accommodates 12 guest cabins and space for 22 crew members, separate from the owner’s deck. The owner’s deck is primarily dedicated to a private cabin with a balcony and pool, while an aft skylounge is available for entertaining guests. The upper deck includes a second skylounge, wheelhouse, and forward pool.The main deck aft serves as the central social area, accessible from guest cabins and the VIP suite. It is equipped with an infinity-edge pool, bar, sunloungers, and fold-down platforms, making the yacht suitable for both polar and tropical environments.The beach club features an enclosed space connected to an openable terrace, depending on weather conditions. It houses a spa, massage rooms, lounge, and fully equipped bar, all with direct sea access. The sundeck, accessible by elevator, includes lounge spaces and a bar.The concept includes several custom features tailored for extreme climates, such as heated railings and specialised navigation systems. Additional scientific exploration capabilities are provided by an advanced sonar system and an onboard remotely operated vehicle (ROV).The yacht will be equipped with immersive automation systems managing lighting and climate control. With a range of 6,000 nautical miles, the vessel is capable of reaching remote regions. Performance specifications include a maximum speed of 18 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots, with a draught of 3.8 meters and beam of 11.6 meters.Credits: Mauro Giamboi
March 14, 2025
Ocean Alexander has announced the sale of its 35R model to a pair of experienced boaters seeking luxury and exploration capabilities. The transaction was brokered by Michael Tyrrell of MarineMax Pompano, who has nearly 39 years of experience in the industry and has now completed his 13th Ocean Alexander sale.The buyers initially intended to purchase a pre-owned yacht in the $10 million range. However, they were impressed by the 35R’s volume, space efficiency, and design, leading them to opt for a new build and double their original budget.“The quality, fit, finish, coupled with engineering and equipment is what separates Ocean Alexander from other manufacturers,” said Tyrrell. “Simply stated, Ocean Alexander is the ultimate luxury yacht in its class. It was a pleasure witnessing these buyers transition from their initial focus on pre-owned yachts to becoming excited new owners of a 35R.”This marks the buyers’ first Ocean Alexander purchase. They plan to begin their journey in Florida before embarking on extensive travels to destinations known for their scenic coastlines, world-class marinas, and pristine waters. The yacht will be used exclusively for private enjoyment, offering them a platform for relaxation and adventure.Ocean Alexander is a family business. Two generations of one family have guided the shipyard for almost four decades. With manufacturing in Taiwan, Ocean Alexander is consistently one of the top selling brands for large yachts in the U.S. and currently produces models ranging from 26 to 36 meters in length. Credits: Ocean Alexander
March 14, 2025
Sanlorenzo has appointed Renato Bisignani as its new Group Chief Marketing & Communications Officer. The announcement was made by Massimo Perotti, Executive Chairman of the company.Bisignani brings over two decades of experience in the luxury and automotive sectors to his new role. He began his career at Renault’s Formula 1 division before moving to Ferrari, where he held various positions including Business Development Manager, Head of Communications, and Head of Marketing & Partnerships.In 2016, Bisignani joined Formula E, taking on managerial roles in marketing, communications, and digital development. Most recently, he served as Head of Global Marketing and Communications at Aston Martin since 2021, where he played a key role in repositioning the brand in the ultra-luxury and high-performance segment.At Sanlorenzo, Bisignani will lead the Brand, Marketing & Communications division, working closely with top management to develop and implement strategies aimed at strengthening the brand identity and enhancing global visibility.“We are pleased to welcome Renato to our team, which grows bigger and more diverse year after year,” stated Mr. Massimo Perotti. “The decision to bring in a talented manager with extensive experience in the high-end luxury sector will allow Sanlorenzo, as well as Bluegame and Nautor Swan, to continue achieving significant success, strengthening our position in the segment.”Renato Bisignani expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, saying, “I am extremely proud and enthusiastic to work alongside such a visionary entrepreneur and a true innovator in the yachting industry like Mr. Perotti. Over the past twenty years, he has transformed Sanlorenzo into a symbol of Italian excellence and a global leader in the sector. Together with a highly skilled team, we now embrace the challenge of projecting Sanlorenzo into a future vision, while respecting the authentic values of the brand.”This appointment follows recent organizational restructuring and underscores Sanlorenzo’s commitment to strengthening its management team with experienced professionals to drive continued brand growth.Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length. Credits: Sanlorenzo
March 14, 2025
Seawolf arrived in Falmouth Antigua last month following a successful transatlantic voyage, marking its first public appearance since undergoing an extensive 2-year refit at Pendennis’ UK facility. The 1950s 57-meter converted ocean-going tug was comprehensively updated with modern technology and sustainable solutions, while preserving its heritage and classic lines.Pendennis collaborated with UK-based Design Unlimited, who were contracted by the yacht’s new owners to oversee the refit design of both the interior and exterior. Design Unlimited worked closely with interior designer Ngila Boyd, who has a long-standing relationship with the client, to create a timeless and elegant interior tailored to the family’s needs for global cruising and exploration. The design incorporates painted and timber panelling, elegant materials, bespoke furniture by H. Miller Bros., and lighting by John Cullen and Cox London, enhancing the onboard ambiance.Transformative improvements include a new owner’s suite, forward of the owner’s pantry and sky lounge, and a redesigned aft deck with a hard top featuring skylights. The flybridge was remodeled into a dining and viewing space, while the crew area, captain’s cabin, and wheelhouse were also extensively refurbished. The owner’s accommodation was expertly manufactured and fitted by Oldenburger, while Norfolk Interiors crafted the sky lounge, owner’s pantry, crew accommodations, and wheelhouse. Exterior enhancements, including the flybridge and main deck reception area, were executed by William Garvey.The refit included a complete overhaul of the yacht’s hotel services, guest and crew spaces, and engine room, with the existing slow-speed diesel engines preserved. The exterior was sympathetically restored, including a complete repaint of the hull and superstructure, new decks, a new cargo/rescue crane, a side boarding platform, and the reconfiguration of outside spaces.Group Operations Director Charlie Ross noted that the Seawolf project was one of the most technologically demanding endeavors tackled by Pendennis, requiring the team to push boundaries in sustainable solutions while respecting the yacht’s aesthetic integrity. The successful completion of the refit ensures that Seawolf retains its legacy and continues to be a significant presence in the global yachting community.Pendennis Shipyard is one of the world's leading custom superyacht builders and refit shipyards and has become one of Cornwall's most important employers with over 430 highly skilled tradespeople based at the 14-acre prime waterfront location in Falmouth, UK. In the latter part of 2018 Pendennis secured a majority share hold in Vilanova Grand Marina, a 48 berth facility with adjacent land available for further development. The investment in Vilanova is yet another milestone in Pendennis’ international growth and offering to its global client base. Credit: Pendennis
March 13, 2025
Bluegame will once again participate in the Palm Beach International Boat Show, taking place from March 19th to 23rd, 2025. The brand will showcase the BG74, a model embodying the essence of the historic BG range and the embodiment of Bluegame's unique touch.BG74 is bridging the gap between open and fly-bridge yachts. It is designed for owners seeking a comprehensive yachting experience without compromises, combining the best attributes of both categories.Building on the successes of 2024, including the pioneering BGH-HSV Hydrogen Support Vessel project, Bluegame continues to push the boundaries of innovation. The experience gained from BGH-HSV has laid the foundation for a new range of multihulls, named BGF (Foil), with the BGF45 model set to debut in the summer of 2025.Another significant development in 2024 was the release of the upgraded BGM75, featuring synchronized gyroscopes in collaboration with Smart Gyro, offering unprecedented stability and comfort. A unit of this model will make its U.S. debut in the summer of 2025, further solidifying Bluegame's position as a leader in technological innovation within the international yachting industry.Bluegame is part of Sanlorenzo. The Sanlorenzo shipyard has been building high-quality motor yachts since 1958. It is a boutique firm in the yachting industry, building only a limited number of made-to-measure units per year. Each yacht is designed and produced according to the specific requests, style, and desires of the individual owner.Credits: Bluegame
March 13, 2025