Masquenda was relaunched in June 2021 sporting a new light and dark grey livery just over 8 months after arriving at the Lusben facility in Livorno. Her owner Pier Luigi Loro Piana is a highly experienced sailor, but the Masquenada motor yacht refit project was based around his changing priorities. He still enjoys competitive sailing, but when he started planning a round-the-world trip it quickly became clear that an explorer yacht would offer much more onboard comfort during long-range cruises.
“I decided to go for a big, beautiful motor yacht of around 50-60 meters in length, capable of accommodating around 10–12 guests for exploring the world in safety and comfort,” says Pier Luigi Loro Piana. “The size of the yacht was critical: any bigger and I wouldn’t be able to access the small, secluded bays I was used to visiting with my sailing yachts.”
At the beginning he was considering a new build, but, as he says “any new build, sail or power, would have taken at least three years and after one year from the loss of my beloved My Song I started thinking I didn’t want to wait that long”, so the hunt began for a suitable candidate for refitting.
“I recalled a vessel called Aspire (originally Etra) I had visited a few years before that I thought could fill the bill,” says Mario Pedol, co-founder of Nauta Design, who has known the owner for over 40 years. “Solidly built with ocean-going range, her almost 600GT volume and 51-meter length suited the owner’s plans to tour the world with his family. With Nauta acting as the buyer’s broker, a deal was struck and Aspire arrived in Italy in September 2020. Time was short and we wanted to get works off the ground so we chose Lusben, Azimut-Benetti’s refit branch, for this top-to-bottom refit that required redesigning the vessel both inside and out.”
The most obvious intervention requested by the owner is the complete redesign of the main deck aft. The stern had already been extended during a previous refit, but he wanted an open-air beach club with easy access to both the water and to the main salon that was also able to house an array of tenders and toys.
To this end, the aft bulwarks were cut away to provide a flush deck with unimpeded views suitable for heli operations and the transom was transformed into a true pieds dans l’eau swim platform. A major modification was removing the old deck crane and replacing it with a custom-built, 7.5-tonne capacity crane that folds away out of sight into a dedicated compartment below deck.
With space for two or more tenders, including an amphibious Iguana, when the tenders and toys are in the water the flush aft deck provides an enormous lounging or party space. The boarding ladders on both sides are height-adjustable depending on whether a tender or the Maxi Dolphin-Nauta chase boat is docked alongside.
“The crane hangar required cutting off the stern section and adding a completely new aft block,” says Pedol. “Naval architect Francesco Rogantin was engaged to reconfigure the underwater lines and we like to think the new transom looks more like a sailing yacht than a motoryacht. The main salon was transformed with the installation of a 2-meter wide door to enhance the connection with the open aft deck. The starboard access to the engine room is also new, as are the ventilation trunks with integrated chaise lounge.”
Both the upper and the bridge decks were already large and very liveable, but the aft overhangs of the upper and bridge decks were extended by 1.5 meters to create a more graceful profile and more shade underneath. On the bridge deck there is now room for gym equipment and two sailing dinghies that can be stowed away in a covered bay that doubles as a sunbed. The upper deck aft is set up for al fresco dining and lounging, while the top deck serves as an observation platform with a fitted BBQ-galley.
The original twin Caterpillar 3508 engines (total 2,100 hp) were thoroughly serviced and a new exhaust system fitted. With new propellers and the reconfigured hull lines aft, the yacht actually gained an extra 1.5 knots of top speed. Noise attenuation was a priority for the owner, so the brand new three Kohler generators are housed in sound-proof boxes and mounted on vibration dampers with structural reinforcements to avoid noise transmission through the hull.
The interior was made by Misa Poggi and is based on contrasting dark and light wood joinery combined with saddle-stitched leather and brushed bronze accents. The overall ambience is warmly refined but casually welcoming with parchment, bamboo and woven finishes adding an exotic touch.
Guest accommodation comprises two suites on the main deck, three on lower deck and a master stateroom on the upper deck forward for a total of 12 guests including the owner. The bulwarks flanking the owner’s lounge were cut down to provide better sea views and the voids fitted with electrically-controlled louvers for extra shade or privacy when moored in the marina.
Masquenda spent her first summer cruising the Mediterranean and has now departed for the Caribbean at the start of a three-year voyage that will take her around the world.
“Masquenda is a very versatile yacht and I am definitely very happy with the final outcome,” says Pier Luigi Loro Piana. “All the design team worked very well – Nauta, Misa and Rogantin – and my life on board with my family and friends last summer was just what I had envisaged when we started out on this adventure!”
Credits: Nauta Design
Heesen announces the launch of YN 20750, code-named Project Orion, at the Oss shipyard on December 6th. This 50-meter all-aluminium hybrid yacht exemplifies Dutch craftsmanship, precision engineering, and meticulous construction. A class of its own, Project Orion offers discerning clients an exclusive opportunity to own a yacht with Dutch pedigree, ready for cruising by Spring 2025.Ruud van der Stroom, Heesen’s Chief Commercial Officer, commented: “Project Orion presents a rare opportunity for discerning clients to acquire a superyacht that embodies the unrivalled safety and solidity of Dutch craftsmanship, ready to cruise by Spring. To have immediate access to such exceptional quality – engineered for both style and security – is truly extraordinary. By summer, Project Orion will be poised to navigate the oceans, setting a new standard for luxury.”Ruud van der StroomAs the latest innovation in Heesen’s renowned 50-meter FDHF aluminium series with hybrid propulsion, Project Orion continues a legacy of advanced design and proven success. This series integrates cutting-edge technology to deliver exceptional performance, efficiency, and sustainability.The yacht features the efficient Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF), devised by naval architects van Oossanen. Combined with lightweight aluminium construction, this design allows for a compact machinery package that optimises propulsion efficiency across all speeds. Power comes from twin MTU 12V 2000 M61 (IMO III) engines, each generating 600kW, propelling the yacht to a top speed of 16.3 knots. At 12 knots, Orion consumes just 98 litres of fuel per hour, excluding hotel load. In hybrid mode, fuel consumption drops even further to just 45 liters per hour at 10 knots – a remarkable feat for a 50-meter yacht displacing 295 tons (light load).The exterior, designed by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects, features a profile marked by a near-vertical bow and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. This design is both visually striking and functionally superior, offering unparalleled seaworthiness for smooth navigation through waves.Inside, Italian designer Cristiano Gatto has created an interior that maximises natural light and offers ocean views. The layout includes six staterooms, including a master suite on the main deck, a full-beam VIP cabin, and four additional staterooms on the lower deck. Open bulwarks enhance the sense of space and connection to the sea, making the yacht ideal for both private and charter use.Project Orion epitomises Heesen’s commitment to innovation, seamlessly blending technology with design to create a yacht unlike any other on the market. Over the next few months, her systems will be commissioned and prepared for intensive testing in the North Sea by mid-February.Heesen Yachts is a Dutch ship building company that specializes in custom-built superyachts in aluminum and steel from 30m to 70m in size. Founded in 1978, it has launched more than 170 yachts since its inception.Credits: Heesen Yachts
December 10, 2024
A new Custom Line Navetta 38 has made its debut at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona, marking the second launch of this yacht within a year. Following its world premiere last May, the latest vessel was officially launched on November 14, delighting its owner family from the Middle East who were present to celebrate this milestone in their collaborative project.Stretching 38.76 meters in length with a beam of 8.00 meters and a gross tonnage of 299 GT, this bespoke yacht is the product of a synergistic effort between Ferretti Group’s Product Strategy and Engineering Departments. Renowned architect Filippo Salvetti crafted the exterior design, while the interiors were envisioned by ACPV ARCHITECTS, led by Antonio Citterio and Patricia Viel.Custom Line Atelier played a pivotal role in the development process, translating the owner's style preferences into reality and providing guidance throughout the yacht's creation, culminating in a smooth handover.The owner family was particularly drawn to the Custom Line Navetta 38's meticulous attention to bespoke details, which harmoniously blend sophisticated aesthetics, spaciousness, and a seamless connection to the water. The yacht showcases an elegant stylistic unity, prominently featuring natural oak throughout the walls, floors, and details. The oak ceilings create a soft, inviting ambiance, complemented by the refined finishing of rounded doors that exemplify the yacht's design ethos.Flowing lines are echoed in the selection of various freestanding pieces, including round sofas and low tables in both interior and exterior spaces. As per the owner's specifications, social and relaxation areas are furnished with spacious sofas and custom-designed armchairs, while coffee tables and lamps across all three decks encourage outdoor living and shared moments with friends and family throughout the day.This second Custom Line Navetta 38 prioritizes social spaces in its layout, featuring an owner's suite on the main deck and four double cabins on the lower deck, ensuring ample comfort for all guests.The yacht's exterior styling exudes a timeless elegance, characterized by simple, harmonious lines that convey a sense of refined luxury. The all-white hull, a customization requested by the owner, highlights the yacht's purity and sophistication.The interior color palette embraces neutral tones, with shades of beige and white accented by bold smoky grey and black contrasts. These darker tones, chosen by the owner to add depth, appear in the helm station ceilings, mirrored glass of wardrobes, lacquered furniture surfaces, and electrical fittings. The use of natural materials like teak, oak, and leather adds warmth and authenticity to the spaces, while the elegant grey and ivory wallpaper designed by Philippe Jeffries enhances the overall aesthetic. Marble plays a key role in the design, with luxurious Essential Grey and Crema d’Orcia featured in the bathrooms, creating a refined atmosphere that aligns perfectly with the yacht’s sophisticated character.The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credit: Ferretti Group
December 10, 2024
Silent Yachts has partnered with the esteemed superyacht design studio Nuvolari Lenard to create a new generation of solar-powered yachts. This collaboration merges the expertise of two industry leaders, highlighting Silent Yachts’ ambitious vision for the future. The outcome will be a new line of catamarans boasting enhanced accommodations and striking styling. The inaugural model featuring both Nuvolari Lenard’s exterior and interior designs is currently in the conceptual phase, with a launch anticipated in 2026. Looking ahead, all future Silent Yachts vessels up to 24 meters will be designed by the Venice-based studio, renowned for its work on some of the world's largest and most iconic gigayachts.“The partnership combines Nuvolari Lenard’s sophisticated and innovative design approach with Silent Yachts’ commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology,” stated Silent Yachts CEO Fabrizio Iarrera. “The design studio’s architectural finesse will infuse Silent Yachts with refined elegance, harmonizing form and function. Our aim is to elevate not only the visual appeal but also the overall onboard experience.”While Nuvolari Lenard is celebrated for its designs of iconic superyachts like the 106m Black Pearl, the 122m Kismet, and the robust 141m Nord, the studio also has extensive experience in the sub-24m sector. Established in 1990, recent collaborations include projects with Palmer & Johnson and MCY. Silent Yachts primarily operates in the 18-24m range but has plans for larger endeavors.“Nuvolari Lenard applies the same passion and meticulous attention to detail to both superyachts and smaller semi-custom yachts, consistently reflecting our signature style,” remarked co-founders Carlo Nuvolari and Dan Lenard. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Silent Yachts, who share our values of innovation, sustainability, and a dedication to pushing the envelope.”Silent-Yachts is producing the world’s first fully solar-sustainable oceangoing production catamaran yachts. They are powered exclusively by solar energy and capable of cruising up to 100 miles per day. In 2009, founders Heike and Michael Köhler, who have spent 6,000 days cruising more than 75,000 miles all around the world, launched the Solarwave 46, the first fully self-sufficient blue-water catamaran after years of testing solar-powered propulsion, and they have been building boats ever since. Credits: Ivan Fois/Silent-Yachts
December 10, 2024
The Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) is set to commemorate a century of passion, innovation, and commitment to offshore racing in 2025. The RORC Centenary will feature an exciting program of first-class racing events and social gatherings that promise to engage sailing enthusiasts around the globe.The Royal Ocean Racing Club will be marking its centenary in 2025. The London Clubhouse © Matt Dickens/Imagecomms“The 2025 season promises not only exhilarating racing but also exceptional social events at our elegant RORC St James’s Clubhouse in London and the beautifully transformed RORC Cowes Clubhouse on the Isle of Wight,” said RORC Commodore Deb Fish. “We invite everyone to join us to enjoy this amazing season – a fitting tribute to a century of excellence in offshore racing.”Kicking off the centenary celebrations, the season will feature over 10,000 miles of ocean racing across three continents, beginning in January with the iconic 3,000-mile RORC Transatlantic Race from Lanzarote to Grenada. The excitement continues in February with the thrilling RORC Caribbean 600, challenging sailors to a high-speed dash around 11 stunning Caribbean islands.As spring unfolds, the RORC European offshore calendar will commence in April with the continuation of the 16-race RORC Season’s Points Championship, the largest offshore racing series in the world. The summer will see the historic West-East Transatlantic Race departing from the New York Yacht Club in June, while July will mark the pinnacle of the season with the 100th anniversary of the Rolex Fastnet Race, accompanied by the much-anticipated return of the Admiral’s Cup.The 2025 RORC racing season features events across three continents © Paul Wyeth/pwpicturesThe season will conclude in September with the Salcombe Gin RORC Centenary Race and the Offshore Double Handed World Championship, solidifying 2025 as a memorable year for sailing aficionados.To mark this historic milestone, RORC is also organizing global celebrations and unveiling exclusive merchandise. Formal dinners will be hosted by associated yacht clubs and RORC members across four continents, including venues such as the Royal Cork Yacht Club, the Yacht Club de France, and the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, among others.A centenary book and photo exhibition will feature such yachts as the classic yacht Dorade © ROLEX / Daniel ForsterIn addition, a centenary book documenting the evolution of the RORC over the past 100 years will be published, as well as a photographic exhibition showcasing the club's significant milestones through rare photographs and important documents.Exciting new merchandise will also be made available, allowing fans and members to commemorate this significant anniversary in style.With a vibrant blend of racing and social activities planned, the RORC Centenary promises to be an extraordinary celebration of a century of offshore racing excellence. Join the community in honoring the past while looking forward to a thrilling future on the high seas.Credits: RORC
December 9, 2024
Northrop & Johnson has shared the news about the successful sale of the 140' (42.67m) Benetti motor yacht Skyler. Yacht Brokers Bob Fritsky and Kevin Merrigan represented the seller, while Fraser’s Stuart Larsen and Trevor Carroll guided the buyer. Delivered in 2019, Skyler seamlessly blends timeless elegance with contemporary functionality. Her spacious 456 GT interior, accentuated by a 28’ beam, boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and one-button terraces, providing an effortless transition between indoor and outdoor living. The main saloon is bathed in natural light, featuring sumptuous furnishings and a sliding glass door to starboard for easy access to the outdoors. The skylounge, outfitted with large reclining sofas and an 85-inch HDTV, can easily transform into an airy, open-air haven thanks to full-beam glass doors and side windows.Skyler accommodates up to 12 guests across five beautifully appointed staterooms. The full-beam master suite stands out with its panoramic views, luxurious silk carpets, and private terraces. The guest cabins offer versatility, including two king staterooms, a French queen with an additional single berth, and a twin with a Pullman. Each stateroom is equipped with opulent ensuites and premium finishes.The yacht's outdoor areas are designed for relaxation and entertainment. The sundeck features a custom pool, bar, and sunbeds, while the inviting beach club provides direct water access and ample lounging space. Alfresco dining options are plentiful, highlighted by a striking round dining table on the upper deck aft.Built for global exploration, Skyler is equipped with Zero Speed stabilizers, an ocean-crossing range, and a generous tender garage to keep water toys neatly stored. The yacht's last asking price was USD 18,375,000.Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. Benetti designs, builds and sells composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. The fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom to meet all the needs of the market. Benetti belongs to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Benetti
December 9, 2024