In June 2015 it was announced that yet another superyacht with a name inspired by a James Bond movie would be built, the 66-meter Spectre. Commissioned by American businessman, John Staluppi, the superyacht is set to become his 7th yacht.
Active in the automobile industry since the 1950s, Staluppi is best known for building the fastest yacht on Earth, the 40-meter The World is Not Enough along with the rest of his Bond fleet that keeps growing in length.
Moving up from an 18-meter Viking boat, Staluppi commissioned the 36-meter For Your Eyes Only from Denison as his first yacht. The semi-displacement yacht was eventually launched in 1985 and became the first motor yacht to have a combination of MTU engines with water-jets in the US, which allowed it to reach a top speed of 30 knots.
In the late eighties, For Your Eyes Only hit a sandbar which led to her taking in water from a crack in the engine room. The yacht was eventually salvaged, refitted and renamed with some speculating that the following alleged legal actions, combined with the sinking of two other Denisons within a short amount of time, led to the bankruptcy of the US shipyard.
In 1988, Octopussy was launched as Staluppi's second yacht in a successful attempt to build the fastest yacht in the world. A defining moment for Heesen Yachts, Octopussy had to reach 50 knots in order for Staluppi to take ownership of the boat, which it ultimately did, reaching a top speed of 53 knots. Staluppi eventually sold the 44-meter yacht after having used her for close to a year in and a half, which allowed him to start working on his next project, Moonraker.
A fast cruising trideck, Octopussy now features an interior by Art Line. Fully refitted by her current owners in 2015, the 44-meter now has a sundeck with a Jacuzzi and raised sun pads. On the upper deck, she features a sky lounge and her sporty bridge along with two dinning tables to her aft.
Down on her main deck is the yacht's main lounge with a myriad of seating areas, tall windows, a bar area and a TV screen that slides out amidst ship. Towards the yacht's aft is a dinning table for 12 guests that can be either opened up in good weather or closed down with glass panels. Forward of the deck is the main cabin with four additional guest cabins on the lower deck. The yacht's current owner's are selling it at $4,995,000.
By the time Octopussy was sold, HH the Aga Khan, was building a yacht to overtake the crown of the world's fastest yacht. Staluppi therefore set out to build an even faster one and the 36-meter Moonraker was eventually delivered in 1992 by Norship with a design done by Dutch-based Mulder.
In 1998, Staluppi set up his own business in yachting, Millenium Superyachts that was to handle his project in the superyacht industry. In 2004, the newly created label delivered The World Is Not Enough, a 40-meter yacht with 20,600hp that could reach a top speed of 70 knots but couldn't steer past 66 knots according to the owner.
In October 2007, Staluppi acquired a project in-build from Henry Luken, co-owner of Christensen Shipyards. In 2008, the 49.6-meter Casino Royale which can cruise at a more regular speed of 12 knots, was delivered to her new owner. Built out of composite, the full displacement yacht came in at just under 500GT. It was later listed for sale in December 2008 and sold in April 2009 to Californian businessman, David McDonald.
Built with a more traditional, American audience in mind, Casino Royale features a straightforward layout with a full-beam master cabin forward of the main deck, 2 guest, 2 twin and one VIP cabin on the lower deck. With two tenders and three jet skis carried onboard, Casino Royale features a lounge on the main deck and a sky lounge as well.
In July 2009, Staluppi acquired Midlandia, a 52-meter Benetti with an asking price of €19,950,000, which he renamed to Quantum of Solace and extensively refitted. In August 2009, he listed the boat for sale again at an asking price of $24,995,000 and eventually sold it, two years later, in July 2011.
Designed with Italian roots at its heart, Quantum of Solace has a layout more typical of yachts found in the Mediterranean. Its main tender is brought into a tender garage aft of the lower deck, with a foldable platform for swimming. This clears out the sundeck for lounging, sunbathing, casual dinning and leaves enough space up there for a Jacuzzi.
In a configuration that has proven popular for charters, Quantum of Solace's main deck features a main salon and dinning room with an outdoor lounging area towards the aft. Up on the second deck is a large sky lounge with a playing table, bar area, lounging area and large outdoor dinning table.
In November 2011, Diamonds are Forever was launched for Staluppi who had acquired the yacht whilst in-built, 18 months prior to its delivery. Throughout the construction project, Staluppi made several substantial improvements including the addition of an extra top deck.
Originally intended to be chartered out by its owners, Diamonds are Forever was listed for sale in August 2012, asking $63 million. In October 2012, her asking price was reduced to $59.5 million and she was eventually sold in December 2013.
With a number of features mirroring the Quantum of Solace, such as the large bar area in the sky lounge, Diamonds are Forever became a refined version of Staluppi's previous builds. The main attribute that set the yacht apart from other Benetti's of her size is the addition of a fifth deck to act as a sunbathing area, creating a second master cabin on the upper deck and pushing the bridge up to the third deck.
Born in Brooklyn in 1947, Staluppi started as a mechanic at 16 years old with a life long passion for cars during the golden era of automobiles. His first business became a Sunoco station, which he established thanks to a loan that his father took on.
After establishing a chain of gas stations, Staluppi risked bringing on an unknown car manufacturer at the time to the American market, which is now known as Honda. After 10 years, Staluppi established 20 dealerships of Honda cars in the United States. After Honda, Staluppi established a network of dealerships of Hyundai cars.
An avid collector of cars, Staluppi had established a museum around cars from all eras and an extensive personal collection. In 2012, these cars were put up for auction by RM Sotheby's in Palm Beach and generated over $11,5 million in sales revenue.
"John Staluppi is larger than life and well known in the collector-car hobby. His collection reflects a very precise collecting philosophy, focused on securing only the very best." said Donnie Gould of RM Auctions at the time of the auction.
Commissioned in July 2015, Spectre will become Staluppi's seventh superyacht named after a James Bond film and will also be designed by Mulder.
Moonen Yachts has launched the 37.4-meter motor yacht Ad Astra, representing the seventh hull in its Martinique 122 series. The vessel was commissioned by an American owner and features customized elements including a hot tub and distinctive orange waterline marking.The yacht underwent christening ceremonies in September 2025 before beginning sea trials. Following testing completion, Ad Astra will transit from the Netherlands to Caribbean operating areas for private use and charter operations.Design collaboration involved René van der Velden for exterior styling, Diana Yacht Design for naval architecture, and Hollander Yacht Design for interior spaces. The owner worked with designers to incorporate personalized elements throughout living areas and exterior features.Nicky van Zon, Moonen's Technical Director, stated: "Each new build reflects the strength of the platform while giving space for owners to make their yacht truly their own. With her striking orange waterline and bespoke lifestyle features, Ad Astra is a perfect example of this balance."Project Manager Ian Vermoen noted the team's craftsmanship in executing owner-requested modifications while maintaining the Martinique series' technical specifications. The model continues Moonen's focus on semi-custom construction within its production range.IYC's Matthew Stone, representing Moonen's global sales, confirmed the owner initially considered larger yachts before selecting the Martinique platform for its volume and customization capabilities. The yacht's design emphasizes Caribbean cruising suitability with extended range capabilities.The Martinique 122 series maintains consistent naval architecture while allowing owners to personalize interior layouts and exterior styling elements. Moonen continues production at its Netherlands facility with additional hulls in various construction phases.Moonen Yachts is a yacht builder based in the Netherlands, and its first yacht was built in 1964 under the original yard name of De Ruiter. In 1981, the yard was renamed Moonen Shipyards. It’s launching its first vessel under new ownership: Alhena. In 2017 Moonen Shipyards changed into Moonen Yachts. With the help of strong vision, innovative technology and new designers, Moonen is once again becoming the market leader in 30m to 50m luxury yachts.Credits: Moonen Yachts
September 10, 2025
Camper & Nicholsons has opened a new design studio and office in Viareggio, Italy, expanding its service offerings in new construction, refit, and design sectors. The facility includes a materials lounge and digital configurator for client presentations.CEO Paolo Casani stated: "With this studio in Viareggio, we reaffirm our roots and expand into areas that strengthen our heritage: new build sales, project management, refit, and design." The Italian operation is led by Managing Director Daniela Duck, who also serves as Group Head of New Build.The studio will provide three core services: new build sales and project coordination, technical refit services through worldwide shipyard partnerships, and interior/exterior design for both yacht and residential projects. The materials lounge allows clients to review physical samples while digital tools enable real-time visualization of design concepts.Daniela Duck noted: "Our clients can now experience a truly collaborative environment. This is where owners, shipyards, and our team come together to create yachts of the highest quality."The Viareggio location places the company near several Italian shipyards while maintaining global project capabilities through existing international partnerships. The technical team currently oversees multiple new construction and refit projects worldwide.The expansion represents Camper & Nicholsons' increased focus on comprehensive project management services from initial concept through final delivery. The company will maintain its existing offices while utilizing the new facility for client meetings and design development activities.Current projects include the studio's first new build commission and several refit operations managed through partner shipyards. The company continues to provide brokerage services alongside its expanded project management offerings through the Viareggio location.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
September 9, 2025
Turkish yacht builder Sirena Yachts has unveiled the Sirena 60 at the Cannes Yachting Festival, replacing the previous Sirena 58 model. The new design offers increased interior volume and expanded exterior spaces compared to its predecessor. The 18.3-meter yacht features updated styling from Frers Naval Architecture with modifications by Sirena's in-house design team. Key changes include larger windows, a redesigned flybridge, and increased storage capacity. The hull retains the plumb bow design and extended swim platform characteristic of the series.Accommodations include three cabins with a full-beam master cabin amidships and forward VIP cabin. The third cabin features convertible bedding that transitions between double and twin configurations. Crew areas incorporate separate access routes for operational efficiency.Standard power comes from twin Volvo D11 670hp engines, with an optional 900hp package available. Performance specifications indicate 23-knot maximum speed with standard engines and 25 knots with upgraded power. The design emphasizes fuel efficiency and range capabilities for Mediterranean and Caribbean cruising.CEO Cagin Genc stated: "We are so excited to present our Sirena 60 to the market, as the natural evolution of our successful Sirena 58. Ideal for experienced boaters looking for comfort, flexibility, and performance in a manageable size."Exterior social areas include a forward lounge with dining capabilities and sunpads with convertible backrests. The flybridge receives updated dashboard instrumentation and pilot seating alongside a Corian-topped bar unit.Storage capacity accommodates various water toys including jet skis and paddleboards. The extended swim platform facilitates water access while maintaining the yacht's cruising capabilities. The design incorporates Corian surfaces and marine-grade materials throughout interior spaces.The Sirena 60 enters production following the company's established manufacturing processes in Turkey. The model will compete in the 18-20 meter motor yacht segment against offerings from European and Asian shipyards.Sirena Yachts is a Turkish yacht brand. The company produces semi-displacement motor yachts ranging from 17m to over 30m.Credits: Emre Boyoglu/Sirena Yachts
September 9, 2025
The Cannes Yachting Festival opens today across Vieux Port and Port Canto locations. The event typically features numerous global premieres. Here is our list of boats that cannot be missed.Singolare45mTankoa YachtsThe second hull in Tankoa's T450 series represents the largest yacht debuting at the 2025 festival. Following the delivery of sister vessel GO in 2024, this iteration features design by Giorgio M. Cassetta with interior spaces by Brazilian architect Debora Aguiar. The yacht incorporates a hardtop creating an enclosed veranda that converts to climate-controlled salon accommodation.Tremenda45mCantiere delle MarcheThis 45-meter explorer yacht delivered in March 2025 shares the title of largest debutante with Singolare. Commissioned by an experienced owner in 2021, the design emphasizes outdoor connection through oversized windows, extensive al fresco areas, and a substantial beach club. Interior spaces incorporate mid-century modern design influences.Andiamo40.7mSanlorenzoThis first unit in the SD132 series represents Sanlorenzo's largest composite semi-displacement construction at 420 GT. Notable features include a beach club configuration with television-equipped bar and lounge seating, plus lateral terraces creating 70 square meters of additional exterior space when deployed.Juno's 744.1mBenettiAs the flagship of Benetti's Class series, this vessel becomes the yard's largest GRP construction to date. Giorgio M. Cassetta designed both exterior and interior spaces utilizing FSC-certified woods and resin finishes. The layout accommodates 12 guests across six cabins including full-beam master suite. Technical specifications include twin MAN engines providing 4,100 nautical mile range at 11 knots.Lalabe35.3mVan der ValkBased on the Lady Lene hull design with naval architecture by Guido de Groot, this custom construction accommodates three generations through five-cabin layout. Outdoor spaces incorporate integrated balconies, custom swimming platform, and aft deck relaxation zone with beach club and sauna facilities. The yacht delivered in July 2025.Majesty 100 Terrace32.25mMajesty Yachts This model emphasizes exterior terraces and fold-down balconies, following design concepts from the larger Majesty 111. Phathom Studio created a glass-fronted owner's cabin with skylights and private forward terrace. The design focuses on multiple entertainment areas throughout the vessel's layout.Pearl 8225mPearl YachtsThis model incorporates a raised pilothouse design enabling a main deck master cabin with private foredeck terrace alongside four lower deck ensuite cabins. Notable features include folding side platforms, multiple cockpit configurations, and garage capacity for Williams 395 tender and Sea-Doo jet ski. The design focuses on maximizing interior volume while maintaining competitive pricing within its segment.Ferretti Yachts 80024.47mFerretti YachtsFerretti Yachts 800 is the new model that completes the range renewal process begun in 2018. Developed by Ferretti Yachts’ Cattolica shipyard, the project is the result of collaboration between the Product Strategy Committee led by Piero Ferrari and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department. The yacht has a length overall of 24.47 m – a version with a shorter stern platform is also available to comply with the 24-metre limit established by French law – and a maximum beam of 5.91 m. The most innovative features include large windows for uninterrupted views of the surroundings from the interiors and an optional sliding door on the starboard side of the salon; perfectly separated spaces to ensure total privacy; and optimisation of the exterior surfaces and particularly the flybridge (a full 40 m²), further enriching the on-board experience. Pershing GTX7023.99mPershing The Pershing GTX70 represents the smallest model in the Sport Utility Yachts range, developed through collaboration between Ferretti Group's Strategic Product Committee, Vallicelli Design, and engineering teams. Its design maximizes interior and exterior spaces, offering 10% and 30% more area respectively than comparable yachts. The stern features a two-level arrangement with a 23 m² extendable beach area and shaded cockpit. A retractable glass panel connects the main deck interior with outdoor spaces, creating a continuous open layout. The yacht accommodates three ensuite cabins below deck while maintaining a 16 m² sundeck divided into functional zones.Absolute Navetta 5315.98mAbsolute This Navetta series update incorporates plunging gunwales, aft cutaways, and extensive hull glazing while maintaining traditional interior organization. The layout includes lower deck VIP cabin with diagonal berth configuration, starboard twin cabin, and main deck saloon with floor-to-ceiling windows. Compact yet full of character, it was the first Navetta under 70 feet to introduce the terrace cockpit, now a distinctive hallmark of the Absolute brand. Credits: Absolute; Ferretti Group; Guillaume Plisson for Sanlorenzo; Tankoa Yachts; Yacht Harbour archive
September 9, 2025
Italian marine manufacturer MED Group will debut its TYKUN X chase boat at the Monaco Yacht Show from September 24-27, 2025. The 10.5-meter aluminum vessel, designed by Tommaso Spadolini, will showcase at stand QA34.The chase boat utilizes twin 400 HP Mercury Verado V10 engines to achieve speeds exceeding 50 knots. Its aluminum hull construction derives from MED Group's defense sector experience through its MED DEFENSE division, which supplies NATO-qualified vessels to security agencies.Design features include a carbon fiber hardtop and lateral terrace configuration intended to enhance passenger access to marine environments. The layout allows customization of materials, color schemes, and electronic systems according to client specifications. Storage capacity accommodates water toys including Seabobs and paddleboards.MED Group CEO Marco Galimberti stated the model represents years of development combining military-grade engineering with superyacht requirements. Designer Tommaso Spadolini emphasized the vessel's focus on both performance characteristics and practical functionality.The TYKUN X targets superyacht owners and operators seeking high-performance support vessels with proven seaworthiness characteristics. MED Group will demonstrate docking capabilities and maneuverability features during the exhibition.The chase boat segment shows growing demand for specialized tenders combining functional requirements with recreational amenities. MED Group's entry leverages existing naval architecture experience while incorporating design elements tailored to luxury yacht operations.Production will occur at MED Group's Italian facilities, with delivery timelines to be confirmed following the Monaco presentation. The company anticipates interest from both private owners and commercial yacht operators requiring robust support vessels capable of high-speed operations.Credits: MED Group
September 8, 2025