All sailors want to go faster and the larger the boats, the more luxury is demanded. Project Fury is a collaboration between Rob Doyle Design and Van Geest Design. The genesis of Project Fury is high performance, fanatical weight reduction and going full beam on the main deck to maximize interior volume. Currently on the market, a 60m to 63m sailing yacht will have a Gross Tonnage of 500GT max. Creators are pushing 705GT with this design (40% more) and this gives the owner a real gauge of the amount of space they are getting with this new generation of performance sailing yacht.
The envelope of Project Fury is defined by these principles and has resulted in an unique sailing yacht in all its aspects.
The yacht has aluminium hull and carbon fibre in the superstructure. A drop-down prop running on a DC bus diesel electric system and a swing keel performance centreboard, that acts as a long keel when up for motoring, give good directional stability and damping when at anchor. The idea of this project is to offer huge performance gains with an alloy hull and have race boat foils and rig package but still have a safe /clean deck that is client friendly.
As the concept progressed it became apparent that yacht performance and onboard energy management were two areas which are highly interlinked. Creating a yacht with extremely high performance over a wide wind band has given the opportunity to explore energy recovery from the propulsion system, which influences the energy storage and generator system capacity and performance. By taking unnecessary equipment off the boat (that has somehow got onto every superyacht and makes them expensive and complicated machines), creators have simplified the systems.
Having seen developments in the round the world racing yachts where sailors are navigating fully inside and well protected and the other extreme of latest Americas Cup developments Rob Doyle Design and Van Geest Design came up with the general layout and workings of this concept. As the yachts are getting wider the deck spaces are also growing. The designation of functional areas is becoming an important factor. Areas for sailing and controlling the yacht are designed to be situated apart from the leisure areas. This will result in a safer circulation and environment for all on board.
The interior space on this yacht is unlike any other yacht of similar length on the market that can also sail fast. The main lobby is the transition area from the owner’s stateroom to the 130 sq. m salon. A breakfast area and lounge are set in the large open space with full height, deck to deck, windows giving ample light and 270-degree views to the outside. The 95 sq. m master suite is located on the main deck. With its full beam forward glass looking down on the bow, it is something that has not been seen on any sailing yacht and creates an amazing connection to the outside private spaces. Its entrance houses the office. The stateroom and office feature large hull windows and balconies for full appreciation of the outdoors.
The foredeck is all flush. Two large tender bays can contain two 7m tenders which can be launched by hydraulic crane. The tender bays can be converted to pool(s). The owner can have private access to this area from the stateroom.
The lower deck aft has a large bay to store sports equipment like surfboards, sea bobs as well as all required dive equipment. The aft transom deck has an integrated transformer swimming platform. Forward of these areas is an extensive engine room space. Two double guest cabins and two VIP cabins are situated in the middle of this deck. The crew areas forward are comfortably planned with spacious service areas and one additional multipurpose cabin.
About creators
Rob Doyle is one of the new generation of yacht designers tackling the modern challenges of the large yacht business. With a strong 20-year career evolution in the large yacht sector, his experience is unique in the hands-on field of design, styling, performance, naval architecture and, importantly, classification.
Van Geest Design strives to keep design pure and uncluttered – not only in the big picture but especially in the detail. The company integrates the interaction between the outside environment and the interior spaces of the yacht. As a result of its technical and production knowledge, Van Geest Design evolves its designs, always featuring something innovative and unique.
Credits: Rob Doyle Design
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
Northrop & Johnson has listed the brand-new Absolute 56 Flybridge for sale at EUR2,033,250, with yacht brokers Jeffrey Chan and Martin Holmes representing the vessel. The Italian-built motor yacht combines performance with contemporary design, featuring Volvo Penta IPS engines for efficient cruising and joystick docking.The 56 Flybridge offers a full-beam master suite positioned forward for panoramic views, along with three guest cabins and a separate crew cabin. The aft galley connects the cockpit and saloon, enhancing indoor-outdoor flow, while floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light. High-end finishes include polished cabinetry and sleek countertops.On deck, the yacht maximizes space with an expansive flybridge featuring a U-shaped dining area, wet bar, and lounging zones. An optional hardtop includes solar panels for energy efficiency. The foredeck includes a lounge with sunpads and a convertible teak table, while the hydraulic swim platform at the stern functions as a beach club with retractable stairs for water access.Designed for comfort and reliability, the Absolute 56 Flybridge is available for immediate delivery. Buyers seeking a turnkey, high-performance motor yacht can view the listing through Northrop & Johnson.Credits: Northrop & Johnson
April 24, 2025
The inaugural World Yachting Summit in Monaco convened over 200 participants from 20 countries, including industry leaders, regulators, and innovators, to address critical challenges facing the sector. Modeled after global forums like COP and Davos, the three-day event featured 19 panel sessions and 8 keynote talks focused on sustainability, modernization, and generational engagement.Keynote speaker Jean-Claude Biver, former CEO of Blancpain and Hublot, emphasized innovation through his "first, unique, different" philosophy, while Azimut Benetti's Giovanna Vitelli led discussions on practical sustainability measures. A SMART framework emerged from debates:Sustainable: Industry must transition from compliance to climate leadership, per DNV's Barbara Sanches and Energy Observer's Victorien Erussard.Modern: Calls for transparency in listings and standardized regulations for emerging destinations.Attractive: Shift needed from ostentation to purpose-driven experiences for younger demographics.Resourceful: Unified advocacy and economic impact storytelling urged, mirroring aviation sector models.Transformative: Early marine education and human-centric design identified as priorities.Albert Manzone of Société des Bains de Mer highlighted Monaco's stability as a blueprint for resilience. Closing sessions noted geopolitical and labor challenges, with cautious optimism about adapting to sustainability demands and experience-focused ownership models.The Summit was co-organized by M3 and OMNIYAT. M3 CEO José Marco Casellini stated: "WYS 2025 leaves a lasting impression... establishing itself as a driving force for innovation and strategic thinking about the future of yachting."A second edition is planned for 2026 to continue progress on these initiatives.Credits: World Yachting Summit
April 24, 2025
Sacs Tecnorib will exhibit four models at the Palma International Boat Show from April 30 to May 3. The display, organized with Mallorca distributor Swiss Yachting and Spanish dealer Helimotor, will feature the Pirelli Speedboats 30 and 35, along with the Strider 13 and Strider 11, at stand M-34 in Zone 1.Pirelli 30The Pirelli Speedboats line, designed by Ted Mannerfelt, will be represented by the 30 and 35 models, which emphasize performance and sporty aesthetics. Strider 11The Strider range, designed by Christian Grande, includes the 13-meter Strider 13, focused on comfort for extended cruising, and the more compact Strider 11, suited for day trips with functional living spaces.Pirelli 35The company's participation underscores its focus on expanding its Mediterranean presence with models that combine design, construction quality, and performance. The Palma show marks the beginning of the Mediterranean boating season.Sacs Tecnorib Spa was established in 2021 from the union between TecnoRib srl and Sacs srl. Sacs tecnorib spa is the official licensee of Pirelli brand inflatable boatsCredits: Sacs Tecnorib Spa
April 23, 2025
Alinghi Red Bull Racing has announced its withdrawal from the upcoming America’s Cup competition, citing financial and strategic reasons. The team, which was set to compete in the 37th edition of the prestigious sailing event, confirmed the decision in a statement released today.“After careful consideration and thorough analysis of our current situation, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the America’s Cup,” said team principal Bruno Troublé. “This was not an easy choice, but we believe it is the right one for the future of our organization.”The withdrawal comes as a significant blow to the America’s Cup, which was scheduled to take place in Barcelona later this year. Organizers have yet to comment on how the absence of Alinghi Red Bull Racing will impact the competition format and schedule.Alinghi Red Bull Racing has been a prominent participant in recent America’s Cup editions, most notably competing in the 36th edition held in Bermuda. The team has a history dating back to the original Alinghi squad that won the America’s Cup in 2003.“We want to thank all our supporters, partners, and the incredible team members who have been part of this journey,” Troublé added. “While we are leaving the America’s Cup, we remain committed to the sport of sailing and look forward to exploring new opportunities in the future.”The team’s departure leaves the field of competitors for the 37th America’s Cup reduced, with organizers now facing the challenge of potentially finding a replacement team or adjusting the competition format. The America’s Cup is known for its high-stakes, high-tech sailing competitions involving cutting-edge catamarans capable of speeds exceeding 50 knots.Details regarding the future of Alinghi Red Bull Racing’s assets, including their AC75 foiling catamaran, have not been disclosed. The team’s withdrawal adds to the uncertainty surrounding the America’s Cup, which has already faced challenges related to cost and complexity in recent years.Organizers of the America’s Cup are expected to provide further updates on how they plan to proceed with the competition in the coming days. The event remains one of the most prestigious and technically demanding regattas in the sailing world, attracting teams from around the globe.Credits: Alinghi Red Bull Racing
April 22, 2025