Kirill Pisarev, co-founder of PIK Group (a real-estate development company in Russia) has just won a law suit against Moran Yacht & Ship over a claim on commission. The brokerage agency argued they had introduced the buyer which is what ultimately led to the yacht's sale. Mr Pisarev is said to have become unhappy with M/Y 4You as the yacht was too small for him, his wife and four children. The 47-metre 4You was built in 2009 by Heesen Yachts and could accommodate 10 guests in 5 cabins. Mr Pisarev therefore decided to sell the yacht and to commission a 55m yacht from Amels. The sale eventually occurred in 2012 and 4You now belonged to Alexander Miliavsky, for 19.8 million euros. The 55m Amels, 4You was also delivered to Mr Pisarev in 2012 and was much more spacious and easier for himself and his family to enjoy, the judges were told.
Following the sale, Mr Pisarev ended up in court after the brokerage agency who managed and crewed the yacht, Moran Yacht and Ship, argued they were owed a £615,000 commission on the deal, 4% of the sale price. Their claim was dismissed by the High Court in 2014, and on February 11th 2016 Lord Justice Christopher Clarke dismissed the motion once again, reaffirming Mr Pisarev's victory in this legal dispute.
According to the Daily Mail, Sir Terence Etherton, Lord Justice Lewison and Lord Justice Christopher Clarke, were told by Moran's queen's counsel, Stephen Auld, that the firm is claiming an estate-agent style commission for having showed the yacht to Miliavsky early in 2010, two years before he bought it.
Whilst Pisarev conceded Miliavsky, a friend of his, had been on the yacht in May 2010 with a Moran employee, he said it was not on his instructions and had not led to the sale. Miliavsky agreed with Pisarev that, at the time, he had no intention of buying the yacht and had only gone aboard briefly because of the "persistence" of the Moran employee.
Lord Justice Clarke said Miliavsky already owned a yacht at the time, "with which he was quite content", and it was "not surprising" that he was then uninterested in buying Pisarev's.
He added: "In those circumstances it is not necessary for us to consider whether the judge was right to hold, as he did, that Moran were not involved in the sale."
The judge dismissed the appeal and ordered Moran to pay Pisarev's £65,000 legal costs bill.
As for the 47-metre Heesen yacht, she has been sold again through Jonathan Barbe (Edmiston) and David Legrand (Fraser Yachts) to an unknown buyer in June 2015 after having received an interior refit in 2014. The asking price was set at 19,500,000 euros.
Following the sale, Mr Pisarev ended up in court after the brokerage agency who managed and crewed the yacht, Moran Yacht and Ship, argued they were owed a £615,000 commission on the deal, 4% of the sale price. Their claim was dismissed by the High Court in 2014, and on February 11th 2016 Lord Justice Christopher Clarke dismissed the motion once again, reaffirming Mr Pisarev's victory in this legal dispute.
According to the Daily Mail, Sir Terence Etherton, Lord Justice Lewison and Lord Justice Christopher Clarke, were told by Moran's queen's counsel, Stephen Auld, that the firm is claiming an estate-agent style commission for having showed the yacht to Miliavsky early in 2010, two years before he bought it.
Whilst Pisarev conceded Miliavsky, a friend of his, had been on the yacht in May 2010 with a Moran employee, he said it was not on his instructions and had not led to the sale. Miliavsky agreed with Pisarev that, at the time, he had no intention of buying the yacht and had only gone aboard briefly because of the "persistence" of the Moran employee.
Lord Justice Clarke said Miliavsky already owned a yacht at the time, "with which he was quite content", and it was "not surprising" that he was then uninterested in buying Pisarev's.
He added: "In those circumstances it is not necessary for us to consider whether the judge was right to hold, as he did, that Moran were not involved in the sale."
The judge dismissed the appeal and ordered Moran to pay Pisarev's £65,000 legal costs bill.
As for the 47-metre Heesen yacht, she has been sold again through Jonathan Barbe (Edmiston) and David Legrand (Fraser Yachts) to an unknown buyer in June 2015 after having received an interior refit in 2014. The asking price was set at 19,500,000 euros.
Henk de Vries III will retire as Director of Feadship and CEO of Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw on 1 May 2025, concluding nearly four decades of leadership in the superyacht industry. He will transition to an Ambassador role for Feadship while maintaining involvement as a non-executive board member and shareholder of the family-owned shipbuilder.Henk de Vries De Vries joined the company in 1987 and became a director/shareholder in 1996 alongside his cousin Tom de Vries. Under their leadership, De Vries expanded to seven operating companies with over 1,200 employees. The group remains fully family-owned and holds a 50% stake in Feadship.A proponent of sustainability, de Vries co-founded the Water Revolution Foundation in 2018 and continues as its Board Chairman. The organization focuses on reducing yachting’s ecological impact through science-based initiatives.Leadership transitions to Roderick de Vries as CEO and Operational Director, with Bas Nederpelt assuming the role of Chief Commercial Officer and Feadship Director. The new executive team brings over 80 years of combined experience at De Vries.Henk and Tom de VriesHenk de Vries stated: “The four members of our new executive board bring with them over eighty years of De Vries experience. Their deep understanding of the company ensures it is in very capable hands.”Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
April 25, 2025
Apreamare California, the brand’s new exclusive dealer for the U.S. West Coast, will present the American premiere of the Gozzo 38 Cabin at the Newport Beach International Boat Show from May 1st to 4th. The new dealership, led by entrepreneur Jack Suski, marks Apreamare’s return to the U.S. market, where the brand has previously sold nearly 100 boats across Florida, California, Connecticut, and other regions.Based in San Francisco Bay, Apreamare California maintains direct ties with the Sorrento shipyard, ensuring clients receive an authentic Made in Italy experience.The Gozzo 38 Cabin is a year-round cruising version of the popular Gozzo line, designed for enhanced comfort in rougher waters while retaining the open version’s signature style. Developed by Cataldo Aprea, Marco Casali, and Umberto Tagliavini, the model features a redesigned deckhouse with panoramic windows, offering a 360-degree view and a fully enclosed dinette.Giovanni Aprea, Sales Director of Apreamare, stated: “Overseas shipowners have always shown a strong appreciation for Apreamare boats, attracted by the timeless style of our creations, the excellent navigation capabilities, and the endless customization possibilities. With Apreamare California and our participation in the Newport Beach boat show, we bring this heritage directly to our esteemed American customers.”Jack Suski, CEO of Apreamare California, added: “I am thrilled to introduce the Gozzo 38 Cabin to California. Apreamare’s elegance and seaworthiness perfectly align with West Coast boating culture, offering owners the opportunity to cruise the coastline in style and with confidence.”The Newport Beach International Boat Show will be held at Lido Marina Village.Credits: Apreamare
April 25, 2025
The 60 Sunreef Power Eco electric catamaran has been named Catamaran of the Year 2025 in the Multipower category. The award was presented on April 23 during the International Multihull Show in La Grande Mothe, France. The prestigious accolade is granted by Multihulls World magazine to recognize the most innovative and outstanding catamarans in the industry.The 18m catamaran features an advanced solar energy system with photovoltaic panels integrated into the hulls, bimini roof, and superstructure. Powered by two electric motors, the vessel benefits from a continuous supply of clean energy, delivering a smooth and environmentally friendly sailing experience.A key feature of the 60 Sunreef Power Eco is its special ultralight battery, which enables silent and vibration-free operation. The catamaran is designed for comprehensive 360° sustainable sailing, incorporating an energy-efficient air conditioning system and eco-friendly materials in its finishes. 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
April 25, 2025
Viken Group has introduced its latest innovation in the luxury cruise yacht sector – the 196-meter REI. Developed as a collaborative effort between the three brands of the Viken Group – TDoS (Tillberg Design of Sweden), Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – the project aims to set new standards in sustainable and exclusive cruise experiences.The REI project solidifies Viken Group’s position as a pioneer in the luxury cruise yacht segment. The vessel, designed to accommodate up to 112 guests and 125 crew members across its 10 decks, features a beam of 28 meters and offers a unique blend of adventure, sustainability, and exclusivity.“We are thrilled to introduce REI. The 196-meter project is the perfect illustration of the combined offerings of the Viken Group, where we manage exterior styling, engineering, master planning, and interior under one umbrella,” said Fredrik Johansson, Co-Founder of the Viken Group and Executive Director of TDoS. “This approach helps our clients streamline the process dramatically, control investments, and optimize outcomes for both guests and operators.”The yacht’s design features a streamlined exterior inspired by nature, combining technical, industrial, and automotive aesthetics with dynamic curves. In contrast, the contemporary interior offers a tranquil environment with adjustable lighting and tactile materials, providing a rare digital detox experience for guests.REI’s design focuses on balancing private and public spaces, featuring numerous dedicated areas for exclusive use. Notable amenities include duplex suites with private winter gardens and pools, massage areas, double-height windows showcasing panoramic views, and a stunning forward infinity pool.Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with multiple propulsion options including electric, hydrogen, solar, and wind power. The vessel also includes a secondary 27-meter expedition vessel for easy embarkation and disembarkation, powered by electric or solar energy.The onboard experience is designed to be ever-evolving, with entertainment, activities, and menus adapting to the time of year and location. The exploratory dining concept, themed ‘from sea, to land, to sky,’ offers a diverse culinary journey.“The market for cruise yachts is currently looking very promising,” said Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director at Viken Group. “Thanks to our three brands – TDoS, Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – Viken Group can harness our unique expertise across superyachts, cruise ships, and refits, meaning we are perfectly positioned to make our mark.”The REI project represents a significant advancement in the luxury cruise yacht sector, combining innovative design, sustainability, and an unparalleled guest experience.Credits: Viken Group
April 24, 2025
Heesen Yachts has announced the passing of its founder, Frans Heesen, on April 23, 2025, in his hometown of Oss. He is survived by his wife Petra, children, and grandchildren.Frans Heesen’s leadership and talent for identifying and nurturing potential were fundamental to the success and growth of Heesen Yachts. Known for his visionary approach and Dutch courage, Heesen took bold steps that shaped the future of the shipyard.One of his most notable achievements was the decision to build the groundbreaking yacht Octopussy, despite significant risks. This project not only succeeded but also brought global recognition to Heesen Yachts.Throughout his career, Frans dedicated himself to creating a family-like atmosphere at the shipyard. Even after the company was sold, the family environment he established remained strong. The values he instilled continue to define the company’s culture today.Heesen Yachts expressed its deepest condolences to Frans’ family and friends, noting that while his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit and vision will continue to guide the company.Frans Heesen’s contributions have left a lasting impact on the yachting industry and on everyone who had the opportunity to work with him. He will be remembered for his pioneering spirit and dedication to excellence.Credits: Heesen Yachts
April 24, 2025