Dutch superyacht designer Nick Mezas introduces a 74 meter custom motor yacht concept in his first collaboration with Amels.
The inspiration to designing this custom project came from years of following and admiring the workmanship and quality of the superyachts from Amels. The starting point was to create a beautiful yacht for long-distance cruising in complete comfort, whether being out on the yacht’s expansive exterior decks or inside
The spacious interior and exterior areas are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and feature low beamy bulwarks with stainless steel railings on every deck, providing her 12 guests with the views of their surroundings as well as a sense of safety.
The yacht’s exterior boasts long and playful lines, which flow through the design’s decks and which give her a modern yet timeless look. Two very distinctive design details are the slanted knuckles in the forward part of the bulwarks of both the bridge- and sun deck. Furthermore, these knuckles serve the purpose of guiding the bulwarks inward when moving aft. This means more natural light and even greater views for guests relaxing in the interior areas on the owners- and bridge deck. Another detail which contributes to the yacht’s design is the bow’s top-plate which slopes gently back towards the yacht’s stern. This sloping line is accentuated by the hull’s two-tone white and dark grey color which unites the hull and superstructure in a clever way.
The yacht hosts an expansive 240 square-meter dedicated owner’s deck. This luxurious deck has it all: from the spacious ‘his and hers’ bathrooms and walk-in wardrobes to the owner’s private office and lounge. In addition, the guest accommodation shows off two generously sized main deck VIP Suites and 3 lower deck guest suites with direct access to the full beam wellness centre and folding beach terrace. This provides guests with the opportunity to go out and enjoy the water with one of the many watersports toys or simply relax in all comfort and enjoy the views next to the water’s edge. It does not end there either, the elongated main deck aft’s 180 square meters makes for one big party area with a bar, dance floor and a 6.5-metre infinity pool. The bridge deck also indulges guests with a shaded seating area overlooking the bow and another large lounging and sunbathing area aft which also serves as the yacht’s helicopter take-off and landing platform.
The vast sun deck shows off a stylish combination of both a Jacuzzi and sunbathing area as well as two spacious lounging areas, providing guests with a great vantage point whether cruising or at anchor, which is excellent for guests when raising a glass of wine and relaxing.
Photos by Nick Mezas Yacht Design
Maxim Yachts has officially marked its entrance into the American market by signing an agreement with Legacy Marine, leading to the world premiere of the Max 44 R during the Miami Boat Show. This innovative daycruiser is powered by three 400-horsepower Mercury Verado V10 outboard engines, capable of exceeding speeds of 50 knots.The Max 44 R will be showcased at the Miami Boat Show, leveraging the newly established partnership with Legacy Marine, which will serve as Maxim's first dealer in the United States. Beginning in February 2025, Legacy Marine will distribute the entire line of Maxim daycruisers throughout Florida.Marc Forné, Sales Manager at Maxim Yachts, expressed confidence in the new model's suitability for the North American market. “The Max 44 R combines impressive performance with spacious, flexible areas designed for leisure and relaxation. Legacy Marine is an ideal partner to introduce our brand to a region essential for this type of vessel, and I take pride in this collaboration,” he stated.The 44-foot model continues the tradition of excellence from the Barcelona-based shipyard, brought to life through the collaboration of exterior designer Alex Cherigny and engineering firm Isonaval Studio. The centerpiece of the Max 44 R is its triple outboard engine setup, which boasts a total of 1,200 horsepower, enabling the yacht to achieve speeds over 50 knots. As an alternative, buyers can opt for three 450-horsepower Yamaha engines.Designed for versatility, the central deck area of the Max 44 R offers a flexible layout, featuring two foldable tables accommodating up to ten people, four sofas—one equipped with two portable refrigerators—and 16 cup holders for convenience. The helm station is equipped with a four-seat carbon fiber steering console, along with the pilot’s seat and two 16-inch Garmin displays alongside 11 analog indicators for optimal navigation.The boat features a carbon fiber hardtop that integrates a high-performance JL audio system, which consists of two speakers mounted on the hardtop and six strategically placed around the vessel. Sunbathing areas can be found at both the bow and stern, with the stern providing ample storage solutions.The galley of the Max 44 R is well-appointed with a stovetop, sink, and two sizable refrigerators, with the option to install up to four refrigerators and an ice maker for enhanced functionality. Below deck, the yacht includes two double cabins, one of which can easily transform into a relaxation area, catering to various onboard needs.As Maxim Yachts embarks on this new chapter in its journey, the partnership with Legacy Marine sets the stage for future growth in the U.S. market.Maxim Yachts has already created a buzz within the industry, making an impactful appearance at the Genoa Boat Show earlier this year. Renowned for its limited and customizable production, the shipyard prides itself on superior craftsmanship. The Neo 43 Comfort exemplifies a perfect blend of style, performance, and comfort, showcasing Maxim Yachts’ unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.Credit: Maxim Yachts
February 5, 2025
Italian designer Christian Grande is redefining the flybridge yacht experience with his new project, the Cranchi Sessantasette 67 Corsa. Unveiled at the autumn boat shows, this model stands out for its sporty aesthetic while still prioritizing the comfort that flybridge yachts are known for. The Sessantasette 67 Corsa challenges traditional notions of yacht design by embracing both dynamism and elegance, offering a new vision for on-board enjoyment.Grande's vision for the Sessantasette 67 Corsa was to create a yacht that evokes feelings of freedom and liveliness. The sporty character is highlighted through sharp lines in the superstructure and vibrant red accents that punctuate the overall design. Features like grey-finished teak harmonize with deck upholstery, creating an intriguing contrast between the vertical black leather surfaces and the lighter horizontal fabrics. Christian GrandeAs Grande notes, “The precisely placed red accents – on the details, logo, and beauty line of the hull – are more than decorative; they embody the yacht’s sporty spirit and the energy it radiates.”Color plays a pivotal role in this design. Grande explains, “I introduced paint finishes that reflect the different identities of the Sessantasette 67 Corsa. The medium metallic grey highlights both the bodywork and the yacht's advanced technology, while the matte black enhances the sleek profile, dissolving visually in key areas. This tactile black complements the leather elements beautifully, adding an engaging sensory experience.” The compact flybridge, devoid of a typical t-top, significantly contributes to the yacht’s streamlined appearance while providing ample open spaces. It features a sundeck, an inviting living area, and an ergonomically designed helm station, blending functionality and comfort seamlessly. “The Sessantasette 67 Corsa marks a revolution in onboard spaces,” Grande continues. “We prioritize outdoor areas over indoor ones, addressing the market’s demand for a closer connection to the sea and evading the typical ‘box-boat’ design.”At the core of the yacht is a lounge sheltered by the flybridge, defined by a seamless fusion of modernity and exoticism, which can be enjoyed year-round. This area extends fully towards the stern, allowing for an unobstructed view of the ocean. Large, electrically operated side windows not only frame the scenery but also create a captivating interplay of light and shadow through wooden slats, offering an exotic ambiance while promoting natural ventilation. This design evokes a tranquil setting reminiscent of Eastern resorts, offering a serene retreat from city life along with a panoramic view that extends beyond the flybridge shelter.The spacious platform serves as a natural extension of the yacht, equipped with a lift system to facilitate easy access to the sea and water toys, transforming the beach area into a personal oasis. The main deck bow features an open-air living space designed for intimate moments with the sea. A generously sized sundeck equipped with an adjustable backrest invites relaxation and enjoyment of the sea breeze. Furnished with a sofa facing the cruising direction and armchairs pointing toward the stern, this outdoor lounge encourages memorable experiences, whether it’s a romantic escape or a captivating sunset view.The interiors of the Sessantasette 67 Corsa offer three distinct décor options – Siracusa, Pisa, and Milano – representing a blend of warmth and modernity while highlighting the richness of Italian design. Grande thoughtfully curated various metals, marbles, woods, and fabrics to enhance the interior spaces, presenting refined tastes inspired by Italy's cultural heritage.Reflecting Christian Grande's design philosophy, the link between indoor and outdoor living spaces is amplified by an elegant glass door leading to the aft cockpit and strategic openings that allow light and breeze to flow effortlessly throughout the interiors. The main deck is a testament to sophisticated living, complete with a centrally located helm designed to respect the captain's presence while maintaining privacy and openness for guests.The lower deck features a full-beam master suite, serving as a sanctuary of comfort and style, enhanced by a wall-mounted bathroom with smoked glass that preserves privacy while enhancing spatial openness. As Grande aptly concludes, “Corsa represents freedom rather than just speed.” It captures spontaneity, pleasure, and the joy of the Mediterranean lifestyle – an embodiment of the new line that begins with this remarkable vessel. The Cranchi Sessantasette 67 Corsa invites owners to embrace the thrill of the sea while enjoying every moment on board in unparalleled comfort and style.A member of the same family for 150 years, Cranchi Yachts is an important piece of Italian boating history. The shipyard has a distinctive range of products from 26 to 80 feetCredits: Christian Grande
February 5, 2025
Antonini Navi celebrates a key milestone in the construction of its custom 31-meter explorer yacht, Evo 31. The shipyard's team successfully joined the upper deck superstructure and sun deck, a complex operation involving the precise handling of 16 tons of aluminum. This significant achievement brings the project closer to its planned completion in 2026.Designed by Hydro Tec, the Evo 31 balances robust construction with elegant aesthetics. Hot Lab's interior design features bright, open spaces and a warm, contemporary style, reflecting the owner's preference for organic shapes and high-quality materials.The next phase will see the integration of the upper decks with the hull, followed by the completion of outfitting.The Pertusola shipyard in the Gulf of La Spezia was bought by Walter Antonini in 1977. Since then, Antonini Navi has been a family-held leader in superyacht custom build and refitting.Credits: Antonini Navi
February 4, 2025
Ares Yachts has unveiled the interior design of its 50.55-meter superyacht, Spitfire, a project inspired by the iconic Supermarine Spitfire aircraft. Designed by Bannenberg & Rowell, the yacht's interior seamlessly blends historical inspiration with contemporary luxury. Construction, using advanced composites, is slated to begin this spring.The design evokes the Spitfire's spirit of innovation and performance. Simon Rowell of Bannenberg & Rowell describes the design ethos as "nimble, efficient, dynamic, industrial, and engineered," reflected in the yacht's sleek lines, metallic sheen, and earthy color palette. The interior features natural materials such as punched metal, leather, and tinted glass, with subtle nods to 1940s industrial design.Spitfire boasts a spacious layout, including a full-beam owner's suite with a 270-degree view freestanding bed and a private outdoor movie theatre. Guest accommodations include four additional cabins, all with en-suite bathrooms. Playfully named spaces, such as "The Boss's Quarters" and "The Pilot House," maintain the military theme, while the "Buddy Quarters" guest cabins reflect modern yachting's democratic approach.The yacht incorporates advanced technology, including a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system offering silent, emission-free operation for up to 11 hours with an optional battery upgrade. The innovative hull design, based on Ares Yachts' Ares 150 Bold patrol vessel, ensures high performance and stability, achieving a top speed of 20+ knots and a cruising range of 3,500 nautical miles.Ares Yachts Managing Director Piraye Sahinkaya Orhun expresses pride in the project, highlighting the shipyard's expertise in high-quality fiberglass construction and high-performance hull design. She emphasizes that the Spitfire caters to the modern, active yachting lifestyle, exemplified by its expansive beach club area. The yacht's interior offers flexibility for customization, allowing potential owners to personalize elements such as carpets and soft furnishings. Rowell concludes by expressing excitement for the project's completion and the opportunity to collaborate with the future owner.Ares Yachts, situated in Antalya Free Zone on Turkey’s south coast, spans 40,000 square meters of build space across four large sheds. Besides Simena, the shipyard is concurrently working on other projects, including the 50m motor yacht Spitfire and a 54m explorer yacht known as Project Atlas. Additionally, Ares Yachts is developing a 65-85m yacht range in collaboration with Lateral Naval Architects.Credits: Ares Yachts
February 4, 2025
On February 2, during the prestigious Boat International Design and Innovation Awards held in Kitzbühel, the hybrid yacht DreamCatcher was honored with the coveted Neptune trophy in the Eco Award category. This recognition highlights the significant efforts put forth by Nautor Swan towards promoting sustainability in sailing vessels, particularly focusing on the generation and storage of energy while underway.The Swan 88, Nautor Swan's newest model, recently unveiled at both the Cannes Yachting Festival and Monaco Yacht Show, stood out with its innovative diesel-electric propulsion system. The unanimous decision by the jury crowned the Swan 88 DreamCatcher as the well-deserved recipient of this year's Eco Award.Powered by a fully integrated Deep Blue system designed by Torqeedo, the custom-built setup for DreamCatcher features a robust 120kW electric drive system paired with an impressive 160kWh energy storage capacity. This combination enables quiet motoring at speeds up to 11.4 knots.One of the key aspects that impressed the judges was the yacht's capability to produce power while sailing. When operating in hydrogeneration mode, Deep Blue's advanced algorithms constantly monitor and fine-tune performance multiple times each second, ensuring efficient, eco-friendly energy production without compromising sailing speed.In collaboration with a knowledgeable owner, Nautor Swan engineered a propulsion system that allows DreamCatcher to operate solely on battery power at top speeds. Additionally, the vessel can regenerate sufficient energy through sailing to sustain both hotel and operational needs, rendering it entirely self-reliant.Nautor Swan is now studying ways to adapt this pioneering propulsion system across their entire fleet, spanning models from the Swan 51 to the maxi range.Giovanni Pomati, CEO of Nautor Swan, expressed his pride, stating, "We are thrilled that DreamCatcher received the Eco Award for its outstanding achievements in eco-friendliness, sustainability, and self-sufficiency. This milestone underscores our commitment to innovation and reflects the trust placed in us by our partners, especially the owners who entrusted us with this ambitious endeavor. Together with Torqeedo, we have created a solution that not only meets but exceeds our goals. Our next step is to integrate this technology into our broader range, further enhancing the sustainability of sailing."The winners of the BOAT International Design & Innovation Awards were announced at the Superyacht Design Festival's gala event, bringing together some of the industry's leading designers, naval architects, and shipyards. Hosted in the picturesque Austrian town of Kitzbühel, these awards celebrate excellence in design, naval architecture, and cutting-edge technological advancements within the superyacht sector.Nautor Swan was founded in 1966 in Pietarsaari, Finland. The builder entered the superyacht market in 1999. Since then, the yard has continued building high-performance sailing yachts in three different lines; ClubSwan, Swan Yachts and Maxi Swan Yachts. Credits: Nautor Swan
February 4, 2025