Azimut’s new Low Emission Yacht, presented at Cannes Yachting Festival 2022, offers all the features of a superyacht in a length of 26 meters and introduces two novelties: the Deck 2 Deck™ terrace and the first Large POD propulsion system. The market rewards innovations in style and technology, with 22 units sold in the first two months since the launch.
The Grande 26M, inspired by the desire to amaze again by offering solutions designed for superyachts on a 26-meter boat and introducing an innovative propulsion system to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 20%. Azimut has been investing in research for over ten years to develop innovative solutions that reduce the environmental impact of its boats and was the first brand to believe in POD propulsion systems. Drawing on its extensive experience, the Yard developed the new Large POD 4600 propulsion system for the Grande 26M in partnership with ZF. The system, combined with a 30% lighter superstructure achieved through the extensive use of carbon fiber, delivers 20% lower fuel consumption at the most frequent speeds.
Main saloon
The PODs pivot, eliminating the need for a rudder and the associated drag to achieve unrivaled performance for maneuvering and reaching high speeds, and the Grande 26M accelerates effortlessly to 28 knots.
Cockpit
Compared with the POD systems already available on the market, the new ZF POD 4600 system was developed to increase efficiency on larger boats for the first time, with top speeds between 20 and 30 knots. An additional benefit of the system is higher torque at low speeds for easier maneuvering.
External View
Grande 26M has a five cabins configuration, including the full-beam owner’s suite on the main deck, and completely separated guest and crew flows. She also features the huge flybridge – 50 sq. m all on the same level.
Owner Suite
The Deck2Deck™ Terrace, the first of its kind created using a transom extension system. The Deck2Deck™ Terrace is formed by raising the teak-clad garage door to expand the size of the cockpit to over 18 sq. m. The walkaround table, when extended, seats up to eight guests in an al fresco dining room with a view out over the water.
Flybridge
The interior was drawn by Achille Salvagni and expresses his vision of organic architecture, in which the elements created by the designer are in complete harmony with the natural environment.
Flybridge
“The project was driven by the enthusiasm to create a compact superyacht, with five cabins, an enormous flybridge and a larger cockpit than usual for the category, which we wanted to extend to give the yacht a fully-fledged dining area overlooking the water,” comments Alberto Mancini, the designer of the Grande 26M’s exteriors.
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
The 2025 St. Barths Bucket regatta saw three days of unusually light winds, posing a significant challenge for participants. Despite these trying conditions, the SW96 Liberty excelled, claiming a notable second-place finish in the Corinthian “L'Esprit” class.Jim Schmicker, serving as both naval architect and mainsail trimmer, lauded Liberty's performance: “Liberty proved outstanding in the light and difficult conditions. Her downwind speed with just the Code Zero and main impressed, earning compliments from competitors. Her agility and acceleration were critical factors in our success.”Organizers adjusted course lengths due to the light breeze, resulting in pursuit races for the 26 competing superyachts, ranging from 28 to 56 meters.The owner expressed pride in Liberty's debut: “Her performance exceeded my expectations, particularly under such challenging conditions. The dedication of our crew and the expertise of Jim Schmicker contributed significantly to our success.”Andrea Micheli, CCO and trimmer, highlighted Liberty's versatility: “She effortlessly transitioned from competitive racing to cruising mode within 24 hours, demonstrating her perfect blend of comfort and performance.”Liberty now sets her sights on the upcoming SW Rendezvous and Trophy, part of the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta (May 27–31, 2025). This event is shaping up to be historic, with an unprecedented number of Southern Wind yachts expected to compete in the Corinthian Spirit format. Ten yachts have already confirmed, including SW108 Gelliceaux and SW105 Kiboko.Three additional yachts are preparing to join, making this the largest Southern Wind fleet ever assembled, accounting for 70% of the entire Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta fleet. Fresh off her triumphant St. Barths performance, Liberty is primed for another strong showing.Southern Wind is a boutique bluewater sailing yacht shipyard founded in Cape Town in 1991. Since its foundation, SWS has specialized in the production of semi-custom high-performance superyachts.Credits: Southern Wind
March 20, 2025
London-based LP Design UK has unveiled Project Iceberg, a robust and striking explorer yacht inspired by the resilience of ocean-going work vessels. Measuring 67 meters, this sturdy vessel defies conventional superyacht norms, focusing on capability rather than extravagance.With a displacement of 1,900 gross tons, Project Iceberg boasts a "Luxury Lite" approach, emphasizing functionality over opulence. This philosophy allows for a highly efficient build process, leveraging commercial shipyards for construction and yacht specialists for luxurious yet practical interiors. Budget-conscious optimization doesn't compromise on safety, ensuring that the yacht is well-equipped for extended expeditions.Designed for durability, Project Iceberg incorporates robust systems, practical layouts, and purpose-driven features. The design reflects insights from seasoned captains and crews, integrating tried-and-tested solutions adapted for a yacht that balances functionality with form. Built to Lloyd’s +100A1 standards and engineered for 1D Ice Class certification, Project Iceberg is suited for polar passages and tropical anchorages alike.Powered by a hybrid diesel-electric system with Azipod propulsion, the yacht combines efficiency with versatility. These rotating pods allow for precise maneuverability, enabling station keeping without anchors – a vital feature for sensitive marine environments. Exposed technical elements like cranes and deck fittings celebrate the yacht's engineering prowess.Standout features include an orange stack housing a glazed atrium, which doubles as a visual centerpiece and grants access to various amenities. The sundeck hosts two temperature-controlled swimming pools, a bar, and expansive views. Forward, integrated settees provide safe seating amidst heavy seas, highlighting the yacht's emphasis on seaworthiness.With its thoughtful design and adventurer spirit, Project Iceberg redefines what it means to explore the world's oceans in style and substance.Credits: LP Design UK
March 19, 2025
Moran Yacht & Ship has announced the sale of a new 122.5-meter superyacht, Project Omega, which will be constructed by Lürssen. The vessel, with a gross tonnage of 5,200GT, is set for delivery in 2029 and marks Moran Yacht & Ship’s 25th new construction project in partnership with Lürssen.Designed by British studio RWD, both the interior and exterior of the yacht will feature a timeless design aesthetic. The vessel will accommodate up to 20 guests across 10 cabins, offering luxurious living spaces combined with state-of-the-art amenities. Key onboard features include a beach club, a fully-equipped dive center, and expansive outdoor areas designed for entertainment and relaxation.The project is particularly notable as it represents the second superyacht built for the same owner in collaboration with Moran Yacht & Ship. The brokerage is overseeing the entire construction process, including the development of technical specifications and contract negotiations.The construction of Project Omega is currently underway at the Lürssen shipyard, with work progressing under strict confidentiality to ensure the unique features of the vessel remain exclusive to its owner. The delivery is scheduled for 2029.Lürssen is a German shipyard with headquarters in Bremen-Vegesack and shipbuilding facilities in Lemwerder, Berne and Bremen-Aumund. Founded in 1875, Lürssen is one of the world's leading builders of custom luxury superyachts and has launched many of the largest yachts in the global fleet.Credits: Moran Yacht & Ship
March 19, 2025
The Italian Sea Group (TISG) has announced a new strategic partnership with Yachtzoo Japan, a leading yacht brokerage, charter, and consultancy firm in Japan. This collaboration significantly enhances TISG’s presence across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, where growing demand for luxury yachts and customized services offers prime opportunities for business expansion.Japan, with its expansive maritime territory – featuring over 14,000 islands, more than 100 marinas, and an impressive 35,000 kilometers of coastline – represents a high-potential market aligned with TISG’s “Strategic Outlook 2024-2025”. This visionary plan aims to foster global synergies through technological innovations, groundbreaking research, and sustainable practices.Yachtzoo Japan brings extensive market knowledge and expertise, ensuring TISG’s brands receive optimal representation in the country. Additionally, it will function as a dedicated ‘Service Point,’ overseeing after-sales support, operational management, and technical maintenance for TISG vessels. This comprehensive service model guarantees exceptional post-sale experiences tailored to meet the discerning standards of Japanese customers, renowned for their meticulous attention to precision and service quality.Gianmaria Costantino, Chief Commercial Officer of TISGThe forthcoming Japan International Boat Show 2025, scheduled for March 20–23 at the Yokohama Pacifico Convention Center & Yokohama Bayside Marina, marks TISG’s inaugural appearance in Japan in partnership with Yachtzoo Japan. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the group’s diverse portfolio of luxury yachts, catering to the growing demand for fully customized superyachts.Gianmaria Costantino, Chief Commercial Officer of TISG, underscored the importance of entering the Japanese market: “This partnership with Yachtzoo Japan represents a pivotal milestone for The Italian Sea Group. Their deep understanding of the Japanese and Asian markets, combined with their premier network, positions us advantageously in this dynamic, high-growth sector.”Nigel Beatty of Yachtzoo Japan shared the enthusiasm, stating, “We are excited to serve as the exclusive partner for The Italian Sea Group brands in Japan, especially for the highly anticipated Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63, which has already generated significant interest following our recent promotional efforts.”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
March 19, 2025
Administrators of Fairline Yachts, the UK-based luxury boatbuilder, are reportedly reviewing multiple bids for the company, according to the Northamptonshire Telegraph. Entering administration in January 2025, just two months after being acquired by Arrowbolt Propulsion Systems Limited, Fairline Yachts employed approximately 250 staff across its two sites in Oundle and Suffolk.Joint administrators of Fairline Yachts Limited secured funding through its existing lender, DF Capital, enabling the continuity of employment for its workforce. Alvarez & Marsal Europe LLP, the joint administrators, are actively seeking a buyer to ensure the brand's future viability.Michael Magnay, joint administrator at Alvarez & Marsal, acknowledged Fairline Yachts as an iconic brand with a skilled team and strong relationships with dealers and customers. He suggested that the brand could attract interest from both international and domestic investors.Founded in 1967, Fairline Yachts offers four yacht ranges, ranging from 10 to 21 meters, sold globally through direct channels and local dealerships. Despite facing financial difficulties in the past, including administration in 2015 and labor shortages exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the company maintained a strong order book valued at £100 million in early 2024. However, its latest financial results showed a decline in turnover from £48.3 million in 2022 to £41.1 million in 2023, although forecasts predicted a rebound for 2024.Credits: Fairline Yachts
March 18, 2025