Few events have ever affected yachting as much as the sinking of the 60 meter Yogi. The largest yacht to ever sink, its wreck strongly hit the Turkish shipbuilding sector and made owners take a hard look at their insurances and dangers, even though no one was hurt. Despite the accident, Yogi was no less of an exceptional yacht.
Yogi was the largest yacht ever built by up and coming Turkish shipyard, Proteksan Turquoise at the time of her delivery in 2011. Reminiscent of an explorer style yacht through her design by Jean Guy Verges, Yogi featured oversized portholes in her hull that brought in tons of flight into the yacht's cabins.
Built for Stephane Courbit, a French media and TV millionaire valued at €450 million, Yogi was built to be operated as a charter yacht part of its hotel collection. Maximizing space, the yacht had many amenities for her size including a swimming pool, beach club, wellness center and media room.
Yet, on February 17th 2012, just as the yacht was days out of leaving the yard where it was undergoing warrantied maintenance work, it sank in the Aegean sea. The weather was particularly difficult during that day and yet it seems to be an engine failure that, tied to a number of circumstantial events, led to the 60-meter yacht sinking to the bottom of the Mediterranean.
The report did, however, clear Proteksan in the quality of its build, focusing on what was a mixture of human oversight and extreme conditions. A Turkish investigations arrived at similar conclusions. Manned by a skeleton crew of 8 during this voyage, it took an hour to evacuate by helicopter the yacht's crew as seas at their peek featured waves of up to 7 meters.
Virtually new, the sinking of the 60-meter Yogi send shockwaves throughout the yachting space. In addition to engine issues that were believed to have triggered the chain of events that led to Yogi sinking, misuse of watertight doors may have been an issue according to the report. A fact worth noting is that the yacht took over five hours to sink into the Aegean Sea.
The largest yacht to have ever cruised with the French flag, Yogi was part of Courbit's Lov Collection, a holding company that includes the Les Airelles palace in Courchevel as well as the Pan Dei hotel in St Tropez. Built with charter in mind to its existing and new clientele, the yacht commanded prices of up to €378,000 per week and featured 800 square meter of interior space in a particularly luxurious interior.
A key element in Yogi's design was her large pool with overflow that sat aft of the yacht's main deck, directly on top of its beach club. In the middle of the pool was a glass porthole that flooded the area underneath with light. All around the pool were lounging pads for Yogi's guest to take in the sun when the yacht was anchored off in a bay.
To complement the swimming pool aft of the main deck, a Jacuzzi was also placed aft of the sundeck, for guests that wanted to enjoy the sun in a hot tub. Also surrounded by sunpads, these feature a common beige design throughout the yacht with colored pillows. Same can be said for the customizable lounging area aft of the upper deck.
On the inside, Yogi was reminiscent of Courbit's luxurious hotels. Featuring a beige and creme tone throughout the yacht, the 60-meter was fitted with floor to ceiling windows that visually increased the size of its 800 square meters of interior space. Its main salon was structured into a lounging area and a TV sector with a wide screen built into the wall.
Stretching across the full beam of the yacht, Yogi's master bedroom was no less spectacular with both lots of light and space. A king sized bed throned in the middle of the suite with access through a central corridor to a dressing room and his and hers bathrooms.
The yacht's guest accommodation didn't also pale in comparison with the owner's stateroom. Finished in the same style, the double and twin guest cabins could be connected or separated through double sliding doors. In total, Yogi could accommodate a total of 12 guests across 6 cabins.
Tall windows could be found throughout the yacht and were a real differentiating factor from competition on the market for Yogi. 'The idea was to have a yacht that could be chartered and run just like a resort.' detailed its designer, Jean Guy Verges in a later interview. 'She has been designed to the specific request of her owner. I think this jewel offered more than you would expect of a yacht her size.'
Another interesting amenity of Yogi was her observational lounge up on the sun deck. Finished throughout in glass, the area boasted a 180 degree view into the yacht's surroundings through a climate controlled environment. Equipped with custom furniture from the likes of Hermes, this media lounge separated the sun deck into a Jacuzzi and a raised dinning area.
Down on the upper deck, which also featured a covered dinning room, guests would find an extensive lounging pad with tiles that could be raised or flattened to create lounging chairs or sun beds. Connected to iPods and iPhones, which in 2011 was still rare, Yogi featured an advanced system for her time with TVs that slid out even in front of lounging pads.
Viewed by many as a step forward for the Turkish yacht building sector and as an endorsement of their quality, when Yogi sank, the whole country took a hit. By 2011, yacht owners and charters had started outgrowing the stigma of building in Turkey and the market was picking up for local builders. In fact Yogi was the largest yacht ever built by Proteksan.
Yogi's delivery was followed weeks after by their newest flagship, a 70.5-meter reminiscent of a Dutch-build quality, Talisman C. Shortly after it followed the 72-meter Vicky and it looked like Turkey would emerge as a yacht building destination. This all ended when Yogi sank in February 2012 and owners' stigma towards Turkey developed once again.
Although some Turkish shipyards continued to prosper, many faded down their ambitions in a global recession. This ultimately culminated with the acquisition of Proteksan Turquoise by Dutch-based Oceanco. Backed by billionaire investor Mohammed Al Barwani, the Dutch superyacht builder since set out on a mission to make the yard competitive and got an order for a 77-meter yacht now under build.
Having initially started his career in television in the 1990s, Stephane Courbit where he built a reputation, eventually starting his own production company behind hits such as Miss France. Eventually acquired by Dutch holding Endemol, Courbit exited from the company in 2001.
His LOV Group currently includes companies in the audiovisual space with several production companies behind some of France's most popular game shows. Other investments include several betting sites, which he started in acquiring in 2007. One of his fastest growing divisions has now becomes the Airelles collection of hotels.
After investing nearly $200 million into the purchase and renovation of the five star Courchevel palace, Les Airelles, Courbit acquired the Pan Dei Palace in St Tropez. His hotel portfolio then grew with the Bastide de Gordes in 2014. Two more Airelles hotels are set to open in the next two years, one in Versailles and one in Val d'Isiere.
The stunning 52-meter Sanlorenzo motor yacht Seven Sins has officially been listed for sale by Virginia Di Antonio of Yachting Partners International (YPI). Currently listed at EUR28,000,000, Seven Sins is situated in the Caribbean. As the inaugural vessel in the esteemed 52 Steel series from Italian shipyard Sanlorenzo, this yacht was delivered in 2017 and has captured attention for its exceptional design by Officina Italiana Design. Seven Sins was honored with a prestigious Neptune award at the 2018 World Superyacht Awards.This listing marks the yacht's second appearance on the market since its initial launch, previously sold as part of a co-ownership arrangement via SeaNet Europe, making her one of the largest superyachts to have two owners.One of the standout features of Seven Sins is its expansive beach club area, complete with a striking glass-bottom swimming pool. This versatile space also includes fold-out balconies, a well-equipped gym, and a sauna. When not in use, the beach club can easily transform into a floodable drive-in tender garage, offering both convenience and functionality.Seven Sins accommodates up to 11 guests across five cabins, which include a master suite, two doubles, and two twin rooms. The sundeck is another highlight and is likely to become the preferred outdoor gathering spot for guests. Equipped with stylish furniture from Paola Lenti, it features an array of sun loungers at the aft, comfortable seating arrangements around coffee tables, a dining table that accommodates 12, and an impressive bar dressed in silver-flecked granite that sparkles in the sunlight. It’s no wonder that Seven Sins enjoys popularity as a charter yacht and is also available for charter through YPI.The yacht is powered by two 2000hp Caterpillar 3512-C diesel engines, enabling a top speed of 17 knots and an impressive cruising range of 4,400 nautical miles at a speed of 11 knots.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: YPI
February 20, 2025
At the Dubai International Boat Show, Turkish yacht manufacturer Sancrea Yachts introduced its latest collection of aluminium yachts, showcasing the flagship model, the ALU 90, which measures an impressive 27.8 meters. This innovative model is the result of a collaboration with Abbasli Design, a design firm from Azerbaijan known for its work on various high-profile projects, including Tankoa Yachts' stunning 63-meter concept, Project Stardust.The ALU 90 combines efficiency with exceptional handling, thanks to its advanced naval architecture provided by SEFT Engineering. Among its notable specifications are RINA certification, a spacious seven-meter beam, and a powerful twin MAN propulsion system.With a layout that includes seven cabins to accommodate guests and crew, the ALU 90 boasts a modern, airy aesthetic characterized by light woods and a serene cream and beige color palette. Key features of the yacht include side-opening balconies, comfortable seating in the bow, and a beach club equipped with folding bulwarks and a hydraulic swim platform—perfect for effortless access to the water.Central to the yacht’s design is a meticulously crafted sundeck, divided into three unique sections: a shaded lounge area for relaxation, an al fresco dining space for entertaining, and a sunpad zone complemented by wraparound glass panels that ensure panoramic ocean views.Additionally, Sancrea Yachts announced that the first unit of the 21.8-meter ALU 70 series has already been sold, featuring bespoke interiors designed by the renowned Italian studio Bassan & Benedetti. The delivery of this model is anticipated in July 2026.Credits: Sancrea Yachts
February 20, 2025
Italian shipyard SantaSevera is gearing up for a landmark year in 2025, following the successful world premiere of the SantaSevera 52 at Boot Düsseldorf earlier this year. Designed by naval architect Francesco Guida, the SantaSevera range is known for its sophisticated design, spacious living areas, and exceptional performance, appealing to the luxury weekender and chase boat market.SantaSevera's growth strategy includes participation in several key international shows. The SantaSevera 52 will be exhibited at the Cannes Yachting Festival from September 10–15, followed by the Genoa International Boat Show from September 19–24. Later in the year, the third hull of the SantaSevera 52 will make its U.S. debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show from October 30 to November 3.Four units of the SantaSevera 52 are currently under construction, while the shipyard is also working on the SantaSevera 40, a more compact model. The first unit of the SantaSevera 40 is slated to debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation and versatility.To strengthen its global presence, SantaSevera has expanded its sales network and is targeting the competitive luxury yachting market. Combining artisanal excellence with cutting-edge design, the brand aims to become a top choice for discerning buyers worldwide.With an expanding product lineup and a focus on Mediterranean-inspired elegance, SantaSevera is poised to cement its position among the world's leading yacht manufacturers in 2025.Credit: SantaSevera
February 20, 2025
The Italian Sea Group (TISG) to participation in the Dubai International Boat Show 2025, a premier event in the nautical industry. This prestigious show started today at Dubai Harbour.With the aim of strengthening its strategic foothold in the Middle Eastern market, TISG will collaborate with BehneMar Yachting Consultancy, the authorized sales agent in the region, to highlight its excellence during this leading yachting exhibition.Admiral Panorama 50mAt the elegant Behnemar|The Italian Sea Group stand, attendees will have the chance to explore some of the most iconic models from the Group's prestigious brands, including:Admiral Project Spyder 88mAdmiral Momentum 85mAdmiral Armani 72mAdmiral Panorama 50mTecnomar CAT-133Tecnomar Evo 120Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63Picchiotti 24mIn addition to showcasing these impressive models, visitors will have the unique opportunity to board two standout yachts from the Tecnomar line:Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63: This iconic yacht represents the ultimate fusion of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge design, capturing the market with its exclusivity and innovative technologies.Tecnomar Evo 120: Combining style and functionality, engineering efficiency, and modern design, this yacht epitomizes elegance.“We are excited to participate in the Dubai International Boat Show alongside BehneMar Yachting Consultancy, our significant strategic partner in this region,” said Giovanni Costantino, Founder and CEO of The Italian Sea Group. “The Middle East remains a vital market for the luxury yacht industry, and we are confident in our ability to enhance our presence and success in this vibrant and growing area.”With a strong lineup and strategic partnerships, TISG is set to make a significant impact at DIBS 2025, showcasing the best of Italian craftsmanship and luxury yachting.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
February 19, 2025
The Dutch design studio Vripack has established itself as a leader in reshaping yacht design, crafting everything from global exploration vessels to sustainable sailing yachts and innovative sportfishers. When Oceanco, the renowned Dutch shipyard known for iconic projects like Black Pearl and H3, approached Vripack for its second next-generation Beyond Custom yacht, the collaboration promised to blend creativity and functionality seamlessly.The result is Lily, a stunning 101-meter catamaran that is as much a multi-dimensional work of art as it is a yacht. With its asymmetrical, split-level architecture, Lily optimizes sight lines, airflow, and the overall experience for its owners and guests. This design doesn’t just challenge conventional boundaries; it razes them entirely.“The fundamental requirement from Oceanco was to create a yacht for change-makers who wish to leave a lasting legacy,” explains Marnix Hoekstra, co-creative director of Vripack. “Lily perfectly encapsulates the balance between visionary design and practical buildability, which is the essence of the Beyond Custom series.”Inspired by the water lily – symbolizing purity, resurrection, and enlightenment –Lily's exterior features curved, cocoon-like wraparounds. The innovative bow layout includes a unique starboard walkway and a helicopter landing pad on the port side, coupled with ample storage for four tenders and a helicopter.Constructed with a sleek steel hull and aluminum superstructure, Lily resembles a sailing yacht with its uninterrupted lines. The absence of side walkways creates a smooth, seamless appearance while the specially designed one-way glass windows allow guests to maintain a strong connection with the ocean, all from the comfort of the interior.“Many younger yacht owners prioritize shaded areas for comfort, so we ensured Lily offers more sun protection than traditional designs,” adds Hoekstra.Inside, the cleverly designed overlapping decks mimic the petals of a water lily, creating intriguing patterns of light and shadow. The main deck, or “leisure deck,” features an impressive 4-meter-high ceiling, an expansive wellness area with a waterside swimming pool, gym, and a space for watersports, all complemented by a lounge and balcony overlooking the aft deck.Hoekstra notes, “The overlapping petals of a lily inspired the structure of the decks, which are layered for enhanced visual connections.”As guests explore deeper, they move through glass mezzanines and stairways connecting to nine luxurious double guest cabins, an open-plan cinema, and a cozy children’s play area accessed via a thrilling suspension bridge. The split-level configuration enhances sight lines throughout, supplemented by a virtual bridge.The top deck offers 450 square meters of private owner’s quarters, ensuring optimal privacy with the bedroom positioned on a lower half-deck. This level also features a vast private sundeck and a serene interior lily pond that draws fresh air, marrying nature with luxury in a unique aesthetic.Dedicated crew areas are efficiently designed to ensure impeccable service while discreetly hidden access routes keep operations separate from guest spaces.As part of the Beyond Custom Yachts by Oceanco, Lily incorporates Lateral Naval Architects' Energy Transition Platform (ETP) and hybrid Dynafin propulsion combined with fuel cell technology.“In the Beyond Custom framework, we aim to create projects that are unparalleled in our industry, and Lily exemplifies that vision,” concludes Hoekstra. “This boundaryless onboard experience echoes the vastness of the ocean, offering owners the freedom to enjoy every aspect of their yacht. It is in the uniqueness of such concepts that we find true value for future owners.”Oceanco was founded in 1987. Right now it is a world-class builder of custom superyachts up to the 140 meters range. Oceanco works with world-known designers such as Terence Disdale, Nuvolari-Lenard, Espen Oeino, Sam Sorgiovanni, Igor Lobanov, Tim Heywood and Andrew Winch to create some of the timeless and award-winning yachts afloat today.Credit: Oceanco
February 19, 2025