LuxWrap, a company that makes its specialty in yacht and superyacht vinyl finishing, has completed a transformation of a 53-metre superyacht Belami.com, formerly known under the name Kinta. The vessel was built by Turkish Turquoise Yachts in 2008.
Belami is currently listed for sale asking €17,900,000. Renamed by her last owner, the superyaht has also been subject to significant appearance transformation. For that, the owner has chosen a non-traditional way for yachts of her size, covering her with vinyl.
The technique has been very popular with automobilists and small boats owners in the recent years, but has not been applied to superyachts. With a ‘gilded’ hull, Belami can now be confused with no others, standing out from afar.
According to the founder of LuxWrap, he came up with the idea of gilding larger yachts two years ago, but no one around believed it was possible due to complexity of the process and high costs of the material. However, covering with mirror vinyl does not turn out to be more expensive than repainting, which can cost several million dollars. Another advantage of the technique is that it takes far less time then hull repainting.
The upgrade of Belami.com took 13 days, instead of 10 as it was planned at the beginning, due to logistic problems and rain and an additional request from the owner to upgrade water bikes with tenders, as well.
600 square metres of golden vinyl coating with a mirror effect were applied to ex. Kinta, while she was docked in the port of Viareggio, serving as her registry place.
The superyacht features exterior design by Caliari Superyacht. Extensively refitted in 2012, Kinta saw interior designer Jean Guy Verges create an all new contemporary and sophisticated interiors. Key design elements include stunning dark Wenge flooring, with matching leather in the main salon and owner’s suite; new ceilings in soft light camel colour Italian leather; new textiles of ‘milk white’ and ice white’; and dark leathers as a central feature in the owner’s quarters and main stairs.
M/Y Kinta before the upgrade
Kinta is able to accommodate 12 guests across six staterooms: the master, VIP, three doubles and one twin. The owner’s space makes use of the full beam to create a large and private space with floor-to-ceiling windows filling the space with light and providing 180 degree views. The full beam VIP stateroom is another impressive space, with its own lounge and large ensuite with Jacuzzi. An elevator and main staircase connect all guest decks.
A large main salon leads directly out to the main aft deck which boasts a large pool/spa with glass waterfall, flanked by two staircases that provide direct access to the bathing platform also converting into a large terrace and boarding deck. The upper deck is home to an extensive formal dining set up, together with another lounge, pantry and the wheelhouse. The sundeck provides yet more outdoor space with a large Jacuzzi, sunpads, sunloungers, a full gym and spa cabin, and retractable awning for protection from the sun when required.
Kinta has had her name changed to Bellami after the American hair extension company of the same name. Soon, she will go on an advertising tour across the Mediterranean, proceeding to London Fashion Week.
Noteworthy, gold has been recently in focus with some of the leaders of fashion industry. For instance, Versace in their FW 19/20 or Chanel in their Pre-Spring 2020 collection rely on golden accents.
Versace
Chanel
Meanwhile, LuxWrap offers other colour schemes for those who may not be appealed to gold. The colour palette comprises ed, silver, green, purple and black colours, glossy and matte textures, mother of pearl and even somewhat ‘crazy metallic’.
The 53-meter sailing yacht Drumbeat is now available for charter in the West Mediterranean for summer 2025 through Camper & Nicholsons, with weekly rates starting at EUR210,000. Built by Alloy Yachts in 2002 and refitted in 2019, the Dubois Naval Architects-designed ketch combines performance sailing credentials with luxury accommodations.Drumbeat accommodates 10 guests in five cabins, including a full-beam master suite featuring panoramic views, a lounge area, and hot tub. The 2019 interior refurbishment incorporated warm wood tones, contemporary art, and refined textiles. The yacht's sailing pedigree includes winning the Rolex Transatlantic Challenge. Current features include a transformable transom swim platform, spacious aft deck lounge with alfresco dining, and shaded relaxation areas. A 10-person professional crew maintains a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio.Technical specifications confirm the vessel's 53-meter length and ketch rig configuration. Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
April 21, 2025
Italian design firm Bassan&Benedetti has introduced Altrove, a 90-meter explorer yacht concept designed for scientific research and luxury expeditions. The vessel combines advanced technology with guest amenities while maintaining operational capabilities in extreme conditions.Altrove features a fully equipped wet and dry laboratory for four scientists or guides, supporting 18-person expeditions. Its 4,990 GT interior includes a 60 sqm owner’s studio spanning two levels, a double saloon with dining for 30 guests, and two observation lounges with 360-degree views.The wellness area comprises a gym, spa, and massage room alongside aquatic facilities including a 35 sqm main deck pool and multiple Jacuzzis - two in the beach club area and a private unit for the owner. Accommodation includes nine cabins with capacity for 22 guests, featuring an owner's suite with a forward terrace equal in size to the 110 sqm beach club. Separate quarters accommodate 30 crew members.The yacht’s helideck is certified for Airbus H135, H130, H125, and Bell 407 helicopters, with an enclosed hangar. When not in use, the space converts into an entertainment area for events, outdoor cinema, or dining. A 110 sqm beach club with fold-down balconies, a transom opening, and a multi-level swim platform provides direct water access.For exploration, Altrove carries Limo and RIB tenders, two submarines, and Jet Skis, stored in a waterside garage. The design emphasizes a reverse bow and angular exterior lines, described by the studio as conveying "resilience and strength." No performance or propulsion details were disclosed.Credits: Bassan&Benedetti
April 21, 2025
Spanish marina operator Ocibar has entered its first international venture by acquiring a 25% stake in Marina d'Arechi, a major Italian marina located in Salerno. The facility, developed and operated by the Gallozzi Group, offers 950 berths for vessels from 10 to 100 meters, along with winter storage and maintenance services.Antonio Zaforteza, CEO of Ocibar, stated: “Marina d’Arechi is one of the great examples of success in marina development in the Mediterranean and still has significant growth potential. Our alliance will further enhance this marina and integrate it into a unique value proposition for its customers and those of the various Ocibar marinas.”Ocibar, which manages marinas in Tarragona, Mallorca, Ibiza, and Valencia, sees the investment as part of its Mediterranean expansion strategy. The Gallozzi Group, active in shipping and port operations since 1952, welcomed the partnership.Agostino Gallozzi, CEO of the Gallozzi Group and Marina d’Arechi, said: “We had contemplated expanding the shareholder base of Marina d’Arechi and are very happy to have Ocibar joining us with a 25 per cent participation, based on shared values and principles of business ethics. Our partnership will propel Marina d’Arechi into a new phase of development.”Planned upgrades include berth expansion, infrastructure improvements, and the construction of a hotel to support Salerno's tourism initiatives.Credits: Marina d'Arechi
April 18, 2025
GB Marine Group, the parent company of Grand Banks and Palm Beach Motor Yachts, has named Lynn Fischer as its new Global Chief Marketing Officer. The appointment follows recent expansions, including a 114,000-square-foot factory upgrade, and aligns with the company’s focus on brand growth and owner services.Fischer, previously Chief Marketing Officer at private aviation firm Vista, brings experience in luxury and premium brand strategy. In her new role, she will oversee marketing, brand development, and customer engagement for GB Marine Group’s yacht brands.Lynn Fischer“GB Marine Group is not only a heritage builder – celebrating nearly 70 years of Grand Banks Yachts and 30 years of Palm Beach Motor Yachts – it's a company at the forefront of next-generation yachting,” said Fischer. “From its ocean racing-inspired manufacturing approach that redefines performance and fuel efficiency, to its use of advanced technology and materials, GB Marine Group is pushing the boundaries of what's possible on the water.”CEO Mark Richards stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Lynn to the GB Marine Group. Her deep expertise in building aspirational brands and delivering personalized client experiences will be instrumental as we bring even more exciting new products to market, expand our global footprint, and evolve our factory-direct strategy.”Fischer’s responsibilities will include brand strategy, digital marketing, global campaigns, and enhancing owner experience programs. The move comes as the company prepares new product launches and expands its factory-direct sales model."GB Marine Group owns and operates three premium yacht brands: Grand Banks, Palm Beach Motor Yachts, and Eastbay YachtsCredits: GB Marine Group
April 18, 2025
Itama has introduced the Itama 54, a new 16.44-meter open cruiser designed to enhance onboard comfort and living space while retaining the brand’s signature style. The model, presented at boot Düsseldorf, marks Itama’s return to the 50 to 59-foot segment.Developed by the Ferretti Group Product Strategy Committee and the Group’s Engineering Department, with exterior and interior design by Tommaso De Luca, the Itama 54 features a streamlined aesthetic with functional innovations. The exterior includes a forward sun pad integrated into the deck and a redesigned transom that provides 1,800 liters of storage for water toys. Access to the bow has been relocated to the starboard side for improved convenience.The deck layout prioritizes comfort, with a large aft sun pad and a dual-cockpit design. The main cockpit includes a convertible dining area, while a second cockpit behind the windscreen offers a sheltered relaxation space. Both are served by a portside bar unit. The helm station features an ergonomic seat and a floating dashboard.Below deck, the Itama 54 accommodates two cabins, two bathrooms, a galley, and a dinette. The master cabin includes a central bed with storage, while the guest cabin offers a choice between a queen-size bed or bunk beds. Interior materials include wood, leather, and fabric, emphasizing simplicity and functionality. Side glazing runs the length of the hull, contributing to a modern silhouette.The yacht is powered by twin MAN i6-730 engines (730 HP) as standard, delivering a top speed of 33 knots and a cruising speed of 28 knots. An optional upgrade to MAN i6-850 engines (850 HP) increases performance to 37 knots top speed and 33 knots cruising speed (preliminary data).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
April 18, 2025