Heesen is planning to begin new year with the same momentum of 2018, as they launched 55-meter Project Antares on 4th of January, as a 55m Steel class featuring a FDHF (fast displacement hull form) hull. Project Antares is the first of five yachts scheduled for launch in 2019 and part of a fleet of 13 yachts currently under construction at Heesen’s shipyard in Oss, The Netherlands. Their very busy order book includes the yard's largest project to date - 80-metre Project Cosmos, which boasts an innovative naval architecture and will be built from all-aliminium to achieve a top speed close to 30 knots.
“In 2018 the market in our core segments grew slightly, which is a good sign for us, and last year was a very good year,” comments Arthur Brouwer, CEO of Heesen. “We see a stable and slowly growing number of serious customers and our expectation for 2019 is that it will continue to grow. The biggest market,” Brouwer continues, “is the 40m to 60m bracket and we are still active there. However, Heesen has made a strategic move into the spec build 50m to 60m bracket and we see that segment as a core market for us with the best potential, alongside the full custom 60m to 80m bracket.”
Such positive signs for the market in general and for Heesen in particular come off the back of a successful final quarter for the yard in 2018, during which time it announced a number of exciting new offerings including a 57m explorer – the first such yacht to be offered by Heesen in its 41-year history.
“I think our explorer yacht concept could be very interesting for the next generation of yacht owners,” says Mark Cavendish, Heesen’s Director of Sales and Marketing. “I understand that the children of today’s UHNWIs are quite interested in the concept of going off on longer voyages; carrying a large number of toys with them so they can go exploring, or perhaps for example heli-skiing in the Arctic or Antarctic – all those kinds of projects that the average yacht isn’t really set up for. I think the explorer concept is great for the future.”
That future also includes a strategy to continue to develop yachts that push through the 500GT regulatory boundary. “We still see the 50m, sub-500GT as a very important product and market for us, but we have built sheds and docks where we can operate between 50m and 60m where we can optimise the length and volume of boats we build to create the maximum capacity of opportunities for ourselves” says Brouwer. “We have, for example, been very successful with the 55m design, and of course there is our custom build program particularly in the 60m to 80m size range.”
This also means that 2019 will see significant investment in expansion, both in facilities and in personnel. “That represents the next phase of our strategy,” enthuses Brouwer. “We have acquired add-ons for our interiors division in Winterswijk – we have acquired the land and location and we are expanding our workforce quite a bit. Heesen is a fast growing organisation right now. If you put it all together, we see a stable growth both in gross tonnage and in length of yacht, which translates into further growth in turnover for Heesen in the next three to five years, based on our current portfolio and based on the current order intake we have already seen. We are,” Brouwer concludes, “very happy, and we hope to optimise our position in the slowly growing wider market.”
Following its successful American debut, the Seadeck 7 has arrived in APAC for its regional première at the upcoming Singapore Yachting Festival, running from April 10th to 13th, 2025. Joining the Seadeck 7 on display will be the Magellano 60 and the Grande Trideck.Seadeck 7This year marks a pivotal moment for Azimut in Asia, a region teeming with growth opportunities for the yachting industry. The Shipyard is intensifying its presence locally with a strategic development plan focused on enhancing its distribution network and owner-centric services. Celebrating this expansion, Azimut will host its inaugural Azimut Asian Rendez-Vous in Tokyo during the spring season.Azimut’s dominance in the region is evident in its sales of yachts measuring up to 40 meters, reinforced recently by accolades at the 2025 Best of the Best Awards by the Hurun Research Institute. Recognized as the brand with the strongest appeal among Chinese HNWIs, Azimut also saw the Seadeck 7 honored as the Luxury Hybrid Yacht Best New Arrival.Grande TrideckThis winning streak culminates in Azimut’s participation at the Singapore Yachting Festival, where visitors at ONE°15 Marina, Sentosa Cove, will have the chance to explore the Seadeck 7. Designed to offer a gentler and more sustainable way of enjoying the ocean, the Seadeck 7 integrates cutting-edge technology, design innovation, and a deep commitment to human and environmental well-being. Alongside the Seadeck 7, the Magellano 60, introduced last year, and the Grande Trideck, with two deliveries in the region and a third imminent, continue to resonate strongly with the growing superyacht market.Enrico Chiaussa, Azimut’s Chief Commercial Officer for EMEA-APAC, emphasized, “The Singapore Yachting Festival is the perfect platform to showcase the Seadeck 7, embodying Azimut’s vision of reinventing life onboard through groundbreaking layouts and partnerships with globally acclaimed designers. Asia, with its dynamic energy and burgeoning interest in sustainable solutions, aligns perfectly with our philosophy, making it a vital market for our continued growth.”The Seadeck 7 stands out as the world’s first yacht to merge hybrid propulsion with the Volvo Penta IPS system, leveraging Volvo Penta’s pioneering hybrid-electric technology. Coupled with extensive carbon fiber usage and an efficient hull co-developed by NAMES and the Azimut|Benetti Group R&D Department, this innovation reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 40%, reflecting Azimut’s ongoing pursuit of sustainability.Magellano 60At the heart of the Seadeck Series’ design is the innovative Fun Island – a reinterpretation of the aft cockpit conceptualized by Alberto Mancini. Transforming this space into a sea-embracing terrace, the Fun Island eliminates barriers between occupants and the surrounding marine environment, fostering a profound connection with nature. This ethos carries over into the interior, where Matteo Thun & Antonio Rodriguez employed natural, recycled, and recyclable materials to create a distinctive aesthetic.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
April 4, 2025
The Italian Sea Group has announced that the outfitting of the much-anticipated Admiral 73m megayacht is in full swing at their headquarters in Marina di Carrara. As part of the esteemed ADM Fleet, which comprises vessels ranging from 66 to 73 meters, the Admiral 73 represents the epitome of luxury and performance. To date, seven units of the fleet have already been sold.The Admiral 73 exterior, masterfully crafted by The Italian Sea Group Centro Stile, combines elegance with modern aesthetics, while the interior, meticulously curated by FM Architettura, exudes sophistication and refinement. During the current outfitting phase, the focus lies on integrating state-of-the-art technological systems and navigation equipment, ensuring that the megayacht remains at the forefront of innovation.Spanning three lavish decks, the Admiral 73 is an oasis of comfort and opulence, tailored to provide an unrivaled entertainment experience for the owner, their family, and guests alike. From its striking design elements to its carefully selected amenities, every inch of the megayacht radiates exclusivity.Large windows on the main and upper decks flood the interior with natural light, framing breathtaking panoramas. The main deck features a wide salon and dining area, blending effortlessly with the outdoor lounge through large sliding glass panels. Foldable balconies and a full-beam indoor-outdoor space further enhance the alfresco lifestyle. An intimate relaxation area at the upper deck completed with a cocktail bar and floor-to-ceiling windows, invites guests to unwind in style.Spacious owner’s suite occupying over 90 square meters on the main deck, the owner’s suite offers unparalleled privacy. Twelve guest cabins and twenty crew quarters, including the captain’s cabin, ensure utmost comfort for everyone aboard.The beach club on the lower deck boasts foldable balconies, complemented by a gym, sauna, and massage room, providing the ultimate retreat for health and wellness enthusiasts. The sun deck is a haven for relaxation, featuring a sun bar, pool, and ample lounging areas for socializing under the open sky.Powered by two CAT 3512C engines, each generating 1500 kW at 1600 RPM, the Admiral 73 delivers a maximum speed of 15 knots and a range of 6000 nautical miles at 10 knots.The Admiral 73 megayacht is scheduled to delivery in late 2026.The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters. Credit: The Italian Sea Group
April 4, 2025
The construction of the innovative Sialia 45 yacht at the shipyard in Poland is proceeding according to plan. A major achievement has been marked with the completion of the hull and deck. The first fully electric Sialia 45 is expected to be unveiled in June, with its official debut taking place at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2025. With its advanced battery system, the yacht boasts a range of 55 nautical miles at 25 knots using standard batteries, while the endurance pack extends this range to over 130 nautical miles. Furthermore, it features rapid charging, allowing the batteries to reach 90% capacity from 10% in just over 2.5 hours.As work progresses on the Sialia 45, the hull and deck have been successfully finished, and the bottom liner is nearing completion, signifying a crucial phase in the production process. One standout feature is the use of cutting-edge carbon technology in constructing the hull. Employing three distinct infusion techniques, the lightweight yet durable carbon-fiber composite achieves optimal performance and longevity. The full carbon sandwich epoxy construction ensures structural integrity and minimizes noise and vibrations, delivering a smooth and comfortable experience.With the target completion date set for late June, Sialia Yachts is confident about meeting their production goals. Once the first unit is delivered, manufacturing will ramp up to produce an impressive ten vessels annually. According to Milvio Ricci, Chief Commercial Officer at Sialia Yachts, this meticulous approach reflects the company's commitment to quality and attention to detail.The Sialia 45 promises unmatched power and efficiency. Powered by dual 300 kW motors, the 14-meter electric cruiser can attain speeds of up to 43 knots. Featuring top-tier amenities, spacious interiors, and versatile deck designs, the yacht is designed for extended journeys without compromising speed. Using the standard 500 kWh battery pack, the Sialia 45 can travel 55 nautical miles at 25 knots, while the optional 200 kWh endurance pack increases this range to 77 miles.For even greater flexibility, the yacht can be equipped with either a 140 kW or 350 kW biodiesel range extender, extending the range to 164 or 240 nautical miles, respectively. Fast-charging capabilities ensure minimal downtime, enabling users to quickly recharge the batteries from 10% to 90% within 3.5 hours—even with the enhanced endurance pack installed.Offered in three distinct models – Runabout, Sport, and Weekender – the Sialia 45 caters to diverse needs. The Runabout model incorporates a sleek, low-profile windshield and open deck layout inspired by traditional motorboats. Meanwhile, the Sport variant adopts a center console configuration with a protective windscreen and roof, offering shelter from the elements. The Weekender version features a glass deckhouse that can transform into a climate-controlled indoor-outdoor space, perfect for warmer or cooler climates.Each model boasts a well-designed lower deck, including a full-spec bathroom with a shower and an optional galley or salon area. Multiple seating arrangements, expansive sun pads, and customizable finishes allow owners to tailor their yacht to suit their preferences, whether they seek a functional pleasure craft or a luxurious superyacht.Sialia Yachts prioritizes sustainability across every aspect of design and production. Beyond the eco-friendly electric drivetrain, the company utilizes recycled materials such as cork flooring and emphasizes lifecycle considerations. These measures reduce environmental impact while ensuring high-quality craftsmanship. Additionally, the electric motors require minimal maintenance, eliminating the need for frequent oil changes or servicing typically associated with combustion engines. Batteries are rated for 30,000 cycles and come with a five-year warranty, ensuring reliability and peace of mind for owners.Established in 2017, Sialia Yachts, owned by Silent Straits, is a company focused on sustainability and ocean-friendly innovation aiming to set new standards in yachting, with designs that inspire both enthusiasts and experts. The company offers the following models: 45, 59, and 80 Explorer. Sialia Yachts is based in Warsaw, Poland, with a team that includes members in the Netherlands and Italy.Credits: Sialia Yachts
April 4, 2025
On March 30th, Sunreef Yachts made a significant stride in its global expansion by inaugurating the Sunreef Lounge in Shanghai. Strategically situated at the prestigious Sunch Yacht Club in Pudong, this new facility symbolizes the company's dedication to advancing luxury yachting in Asia.More than just an exhibition space, the Sunreef Lounge acts as a cultural center, facilitating meaningful interactions between clients, collaborators, and enthusiasts. Here, visitors can explore Sunreef's state-of-the-art technologies and environmentally conscious solutions in a refined and engaging atmosphere.Central to the lounge's offerings is the groundbreaking Sunreef Ultima line, which integrates speed, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to inspire responsible ownership, this cutting-edge collection highlights the shipyard's commitment to shaping the future of eco-conscious yachting.By merging global luxury standards with local customs and sustainability principles, Sunreef Yachts establishes itself as a trailblazer in the Asian market. This initiative marks a promising era for the brand and sets a new benchmark for the evolution of yachting in the region.Sunreef Yachts was founded by Francis Lapp in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland. Since then, the shipyard has been designing and manufacturing luxury sailing and power multihulls. Credits: Sunreef Yachts; rleine/unsplash.com
April 3, 2025
Northrop & Johnson announces the successful sale of the 51-meter Sapphire, a Trinity-built motor yacht, through Boathouse Auctions. Represented by Yacht Brokers Sean Doyle and Wes Sanford, Sapphire attracted serious interest from qualified buyers leading up to the auction, reflecting her strong market appeal.Delivered in 2009 and constructed using lightweight aluminum to ABS classification standards, Sapphire embodies the finest traditions of American yacht construction. The vessel underwent a comprehensive refit in 2019, followed by substantial technical upgrades in 2020 and 2021, including engine rebuilds and generator replacements. Recently completing her five-year survey, Sapphire entered the market in prime condition, ready for immediate use.A standout feature of Sapphire is her versatile layout, which accommodates up to 20 guests across seven well-appointed staterooms. This configuration makes her ideal for large families or as a capable mothership support vessel. Guests can choose from two triple cabins with queen and twin beds, two twin cabins with Pullman berths, and additional cabins on the main and bridge decks. The bridge-deck master suite stands out with its luxurious ensuite bath, soothing bathtub, and direct access to a private exterior deck.Zero-speed stabilizers and a shallow draft ensure smooth cruising and easy navigation to popular destinations like Florida and The Bahamas. With a 4,000-nautical-mile range, Sapphire is equally adept at long-distance travel.Outdoor spaces are carefully designed for leisure and entertainment. The sundeck boasts a relaxing hot tub, a well-stocked bar, and multiple lounging and dining options. Other al fresco areas include the Portuguese bridge, bridge deck aft lounge, and a spacious main deck aft dining table. Thoughtful integration of tender and toy storage keeps the decks clear and functional.James McFarlane’s interior design combines timeless elegance with practicality. The main salon offers ample seating, a welcoming bar, and a formal dining area for 14 guests, enhanced by an abundance of natural light. Forward of the salon lies a multipurpose bonus room that can serve as a playroom or an extra VIP suite.Featuring a proven platform, recent technical improvements, and generous accommodations, Sapphire presents an attractive option for experienced yacht owners seeking a capable, family-focused superyacht.Credits: Northrop & Johnson
April 3, 2025