New owner for the 1920s classic motor yacht Fair Lady

Turkish Mengi Yay Yacht has unveiled the interior visuals of the Serenissima I (S1), the inaugural model from its sub-500GT series, following its introduction at the Monaco Yacht Show this year.Crafted by the esteemed Italian design firm Nuvolari Lenard, this 47.5-meter yacht was commissioned by a discerning owner seeking the expansive deck and interior comforts of a larger vessel in a more Mediterranean-friendly format. Standout features include a private elevator, an exclusive owner's deck, and a generously sized sundeck.The S1 model boasts a robust steel hull coupled with an aluminum superstructure, designed for both impressive range and speed. With naval architecture by the Dutch studio Van Oossanen Naval Architects, the yacht's innovative hull design provides a range of 4,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots.The interiors have been meticulously crafted by the Nuvolari Lenard team under the artistic direction of Valentina Zannier. The rich visual palette showcases textured wood panels and bronze accents, enhanced by floor-to-ceiling windows that invite sunlight into all living areas.Accommodations on board include four cabins, with two adaptable into a luxurious VIP suite via a movable partition. The owner's deck on the bridge level is thoughtfully designed with a rear-facing suite featuring an en-suite bathroom offering stunning views, as well as a private terrace that enjoys protection from the sundeck overhang for year-round usability.The shipyard asserts that the sundeck is arguably the largest in its class, complete with a sunbathing area, a mini pool offering forward views, and a fully sheltered lounge. Additionally, the main saloon is designed for utmost comfort, featuring a balcony and a wine cellar.The exterior beach club and cockpit are fully protected, featuring plush seating arrangements, a bar, and folding bulwarks for easy access. An impressive retractable crane, capable of lifting up to 2.6 tonnes, can accommodate a large tender or vehicle, with ample storage for dive gear, a 7.2-meter guest tender, two additional tenders, and a Jet Ski.Serenissima I is currently listed for sale through Northrop & Johnson.Mengi Yay Yachts was founded in 1964 in Turkey. Now the company owns one of the largest (19,365 sq m) yards that were specifically designed for the refit and refurbishment of existing craft as well as the manufacturing of the new motor and sailing yachts. Credits: Mengi Yay Yachts

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2024 marks a significant moment for Pardo Yachts as they unveil the Pardo GT75, the latest flagship of their GT range, setting new benchmarks in luxury yachting. Designed to redefine the relationship between a yacht and the sea, the GT75 embodies the perfect blend of distinctive aesthetics, robust performance, and unrivaled comfort.Measuring nearly 23 meters, the Pardo GT75 is a stunning representation of the iconic Pardo Yachts design philosophy. It features a reverse bow and forward-leaning windshield, allowing for an unparalleled connection with the surrounding waters. Promoting an upscale lifestyle, Gigi Servidati, President of Cantiere del Pardo, describes the vessel as “a luxurious villa on the sea,” tailored for a sophisticated experience.Under the hood, the GT75’s performance is nothing short of remarkable. Equipped with a standard engine package of three Volvo Penta IPS 1050 engines, generating an impressive 800 hp each, it offers superb fuel efficiency and powerful handling. The hull has been meticulously optimized to harmonize with the propulsion system, ensuring a smooth and quiet ride, regardless of the sea conditions. Additionally, with a vast fuel capacity of 4,100 liters and a 1,100-liter water tank, the GT75 promises an extended range perfect for longer voyages.Handling the Pardo GT75 is effortless, thanks to its raised central dashboard and strategic design features, including a bow thruster and gyro stabilizer. This thoughtful engineering simplifies maneuverability, enhancing the experience of docking and exploration.A standout feature is the elegant design, which transforms the yacht into a serene sanctuary, blending spacious interiors with an airy ambiance. Featuring generous sun decks, openable wrap-around windows, a multifunctional stern transformer, and deployable side terraces, the GT75 redefines outdoor living. The electrically liftable sundeck provides unique storage for a 3.7-meter tender, merging convenience with luxury.Inside, the GT75 offers a choice of layouts, including a galley-up or galley-down configuration, each thoughtfully designed for interaction and comfort. The spacious main deck flows seamlessly into the cockpit, making it ideal for entertaining or relaxing. The lower deck can accommodate varying sleeping arrangements, including a full-beam owner’s stateroom and up to four cabins, ensuring comfort and privacy for all onboard.Cantiere del Pardo was founded in 1973 in Italy. Pardo Yachts, the brand of Cantiere del Pardo dedicated to powerboats, was born in 2016. The first model, the Pardo 43, was launched in 2017. Grand Soleil was founded in 1973 and is famous for its yachts, which ensure performance for regattas, autonomous long-distance navigation, as well as a high level of sustainable consciousness.Credits: Alberto Cocchi/Cantiere del Pardo

Royal Huisman announces the transport of the modern classic 65m Aquarius from the hall that has housed “Project 408 Aquarius II” since her hull was turned in March last year. This performance ketch is the successor to the first Aquarius by Royal Huisman, delivered in 2018. The 56m world-cruising ketch was deemed “close to perfect” by her experienced owners: a husband-and-wife team who simply wanted a larger yacht with even more impressive performance – the stunning new big sister, Aquarius. It’s a great compliment when owners value their yacht so highly that the only material change they want is a larger version, built by exactly the same team. The team behind both Aquarius yachts (described by an independent commentator as “some of the most experienced and talented minds in the superyacht world”) includes owners’ project manager Godfrey Cray, Dykstra Naval Architects, interior designer Mark Whiteley, and superyacht builder Royal Huisman.As the successor to the first Aquarius (now Apsara), this project epitomizes Royal Huisman’s dedication to creating fully custom superyachts. While retaining the elegance of her predecessor, Aquarius boasts a 45% increase in volume and features larger social and crew areas, improved integrated sail-handling systems, and a lifting fin keel for optimal performance. The yacht combines timeless style with state-of-the-art technology and outstanding craftsmanship.A key element of this project is the implementation of lessons learned from the first Aquarius and other previous builds. Royal Huisman continuously pushes the boundaries of innovation while refining processes based on extensive project experience. For example, the yacht’s lightweight Alustar® aluminum construction allows Aquarius to offer both high-performance sailing and superior comfort. The use of semi-hybrid propulsion reflects a focus on sustainability, enabling greater energy efficiency and a reduced environmental footprint.CEO Jan Timmerman comments: “We are grateful the owners entrusted us with the realization of their dream, which has become an exceptional and truly beautiful yacht. Aquarius showcases our commitment to innovation and client-focused solutions for both sailing and motoryacht projects. Each superyacht we build benefits from decades of lessons learned and is tailored precisely to the owner’s vision. Aquarius exemplifies this collaborative approach.”Following Aquarius’s transport to Amsterdam, she will be prepared for the final stages of the project: launch, stepping of the carbon Rondal masts and booms, a series of sea trials, and her delivery.Royal Huisman is a Dutch shipyard established in 1884 in Ronduite, building and refitting custom luxury sailing and motor yachts at its shipyard in Vollenhove, the Netherlands.Credits: Royal Huisman

Supermarine, the exclusive representative of Skipper Powerboats in Italy, Spain, and Switzerland, as well as the official Saxdor dealer for Italy and Monaco, has successfully hosted its inaugural open house event.The three-day event, held from October 11 to 13 at the Marina of Varazze, was designed to celebrate the new partnership with Skipper Powerboats, featuring exciting sea trials of two outstanding models from the renowned Greek brand.As the official distributor for Skipper Powerboats, Supermarine passionately showcased their high-performance sports RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) at this milestone event. This partnership expands Supermarine’s offerings, which already includes the Finnish brand Saxdor Yachts under an exclusive dealership agreement for Italy and Monaco.“Our selection of Skipper models is truly distinctive in the maritime world,” stated Riccardo Cavarzan, CEO of Supermarine. “Originating from the BSK shipyard – which stands for Benchmark Superior Knowledge – these watercraft are meticulously designed for top-tier performance, featuring a unique four-step hull design, making them the only RIBs of their kind.” Cavarzan emphasized that the company aims to build a selective dealer network across Spain, Italy, and Switzerland, and that events like this are crucial for visibility and networking with operators, dealers, and enthusiasts in the industry.In 2024, Supermarine achieved remarkable success by selling over 30 Saxdor boats in their first year with the brand. The distinctiveness of Saxdor has significantly contributed to this achievement, and Supermarine approaches its representation of Skipper Powerboats with similar aspirations.During the Varazze event, attendees experienced two models from the Skipper BSK range: the Skipper BSK 34 NC, powered by twin Mercury 300R engines, and the Skipper BSK 42 NC, featuring dual Volvo Penta 440 hp diesel stern drives. Both boats demonstrated remarkable performance, reaching speeds of up to 60 knots and exceeding expectations in wave handling within their categories. Credits: Supermarine

Northrop & Johnson has announced the immediate appointment of Ben Young as Commercial Director for Europe.This transition follows the advancement of former Managing Director Europe, Patrick Coote, to Vice President of Brand Marketing at MarineMax's Superyacht Division. Ben steps into this key role after serving as the Founder and Commercial Director of SYM, now known as Fairport Global. He will report directly to Cromwell Littlejohn, N&J President & CCO, and will focus on enhancing the company’s European commercial divisions.Ben Young During his tenure at Fairport, Ben successfully strengthened the EU yacht management team and introduced innovative strategies, making him exceptionally qualified for the role at Northrop & Johnson. He will manage all commercial divisions across N&J's European offices, which include Monaco, Antibes, Palma, London, and Istanbul, providing a wide array of services from yacht brokerage and purchases to new builds, charter retail, marketing, yacht management, and crew services.Ben’s vision is centered on deepening client relationships and expanding service offerings to meet the dynamic demands of the luxury yacht market. His leadership is expected to foster collaboration among teams and optimize synergies throughout the region."We are thrilled to welcome Ben as our new Commercial Director Europe," states Cromwell Littlejohn, N&J President & CCO. "I look forward to collaborating with him to expand N&J's European operations across all our services. Ben's extensive industry experience and connections will play a crucial role in driving our continued growth and success."With a strong commitment to excellence, Ben aims to enhance Northrop & Johnson’s footprint in Europe, ensuring that the company remains a leader in luxury yachting. Credits: Northrop & Johnson