Second Amels 60 Delivered by Damen Yachting

Grand Soleil Yachts has announced the world debut of the Grand Soleil Blue at Boot Düsseldorf 2025, scheduled for January 18 to 26, 2025. This groundbreaking project exemplifies the dedication of Grand Soleil Yachts and Cantiere del Pardo to embraced sustainability and marine conservation, setting a new benchmark in eco-friendly yacht construction."The sea is our passion and our home," remarked Gigi Servidati, Chairman of Cantiere del Pardo. "The GS Blue showcases how aesthetics, performance, and sustainable practices can seamlessly coexist, resulting in a vessel that’s thoughtfully designed for future generations."The GS Blue signifies a collaborative effort between Cantiere del Pardo and prominent maritime experts, including Matteo Polli (Naval Architect) and Nauta Design (responsible for both the exterior and interior design), as well as sustainable materials specialists like NL Comp. This boat is more than just a product; it represents a firm commitment to redefine the standards of sustainability within yachting. The Grand Soleil Blue is poised to set a new paradigm for future yacht design – where elegance aligns harmoniously with ecological responsibility.With an overall length of 10 meters, the Grand Soleil Blue comfortably accommodates up to four individuals for overnight excursions, all while providing a zero-impact sailing experience. When its operational life comes to an end, the entire vessel is designed for complete recyclability, utilizing components selected for their reusability, thereby preventing current materials from becoming future waste. This eco-sensitive approach has influenced the design process, resulting in a stylish weekender that is also remarkably innovative.How has such sustainability been achieved? Through advanced design and construction methodologies:Sustainable Construction: The GS Blue signifies a pivotal advancement in yacht construction by incorporating thermoplastic resin – developed by NL Comp, a pioneer in sustainable yachting – which addresses a pressing challenge in the marine industry: end-of-life recycling. Unlike composite boats traditionally constructed with thermosetting resins that are hard to recycle, thermoplastic resin allows for the easy separation of resin from glass or carbon fibers for reuse or responsible disposal.Design for Disassembly: This innovative design approach facilitates the simple disassembly of boat components, mirroring end-of-life practices utilized in the automotive sector. This distinctive consideration assures that all elements of the GS Blue can be effectively disassembled and recycled, thereby minimizing environmental repercussions.Lithium Batteries: The GS Blue will include an 8 kW, 48V lithium battery bank (LiFePO4) from E-Propulsion, recharge-ready within 7.2 hours. This is the standard configuration, which can be doubled in capacity without extending charging time.Electric Propulsion: Featuring a 6 kW electric motor with a direct Pod Drive transmission from E-Propulsion, the GS Blue produces a silent onboard experience and a simplified installation process, championing zero-emission navigation and paving the way for a more sustainable maritime future.Solar Panels: Equipped with solar panels to ensure renewable energy autonomy, the GS Blue’s battery bank powers both the electric motor and essential onboard services. With the standard battery pack, it can cruise approximately 30 nautical miles at a speed of around 5 knots – six hours of continuous operation – extensively supported by an integrated photovoltaic system from Solbian.Thermoplastic Sails: Emphasizing sustainability, the sails of the GS Blue are made from thermoplastic materials, representing a commitment to minimizing environmental impact. Developed by OneSails, the 4T FORTE™ sails are designed to be the world's first sustainably produced sails, ensuring extensive recyclability.Hydrogeneration: While cruising, the E-Propulsion Pod Drive motor generates electricity to recharge the GS Blue's batteries through hydrogeneration, creating energy from the flow of water produced by the propeller's movement.Notably, this pioneering project is co-funded by the Emilia-Romagna region, under the PR-ERDF 2021/2027 program, reflecting a commitment to experimental research and development.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.Credit: Grand Soleil

Sanlorenzo has officially unveiled the SD132, marking a significant milestone in its Yacht Business Unit. This impressive vessel, measuring 40.7 meters in length, stands as the largest composite-built yacht produced by the shipyard and the flagship model in the esteemed semi-displacement line. Continuing the legacy of its predecessors –SD90, SD96, SD112, SD118, SD126, and SD132 – the SD132 introduces refined features and groundbreaking innovations that make it a standout in the yachting industry.“We couldn’t be more excited about the launch of the SD132, which perfectly marries substantial size, cutting-edge design, and timeless elegance – hallmarks of the Sanlorenzo brand,” stated Tommaso Vincenzi, President of Sanlorenzo’s Yacht Business Unit. “The enthusiastic market response is evidenced by five contracts already signed prior to the launch, illustrating the yacht’s successful reception among discerning owners.” He emphasized that every aspect of the SD132 reflects the unwavering dedication and passion of the Sanlorenzo team, who continually seek to redefine the boundaries of onboard space and volume.The SD132 boasts extraordinary dimensions with an impressive 420 gross tons, making it a unique offering among yachts of its size. Notable for its innovative use of space, the yacht features expansive areas designed for optimal connection with the marine surroundings. A key highlight is the expansive beach area, seamlessly integrated with the aft cockpit. When its lateral terraces are rotated and opened, guests are greeted with an impressive 70-square-meter terrace, enhancing the yacht’s connection with the ocean.Additional standout features include the vast 85-square-meter fly deck, complete with a crystal-clear mini pool and sunbathing area. The yacht also includes a side garage capable of accommodating a tender up to 6.25 meters long – a feature typically found on larger vessels – providing extensive customization options. The forward area further enhances this with a separate hangar for storing toys or a rescue boat.Designed by Zuccon International Project, the SD132’s exterior reflects a harmonious balance, rooted in the innovative concept of asymmetry, pioneered by Sanlorenzo. The unique layout positions the main deck walkway on the left side and the upper deck walkway on the right, optimizing weight distribution and interior volume. This configuration also facilitates vertical circulation between decks and enhances the usability of internal spaces.Accommodating four guest cabins and a crew area, the SD132 includes a generously sized 55-square-meter owner’s suite on the main deck, alongside a spacious saloon featuring expansive windows to maximize natural light. The collaboration between Sanlorenzo and Zuccon International Project extends to the yacht's interiors, which focus on creating inviting, nature-inspired environments. The interior design utilizes earth-toned colors and sustainable materials, crafting authentic spaces that emphasize a sensory connection between owners and their vessel.Combining sturdiness with elegance, the SD132 exemplifies Sanlorenzo’s commitment to high performance and extended-range capabilities, achieving a remarkable range of 3,200 miles. Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length. Credits: Sanlorenzo

Italy's renowned Hot Lab, a key player in the Viken Group, has unveiled an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at its remarkable design process for the Columbus Yachts' newest superyacht, the Atlantique 43 Frette. This sneak peek highlights the intricate blend of Eastern and Western design philosophies, utilizing prestigious global design brands. Stunning imagery showcases Hot Lab's meticulous design work, capturing both the yacht's elegant exterior and luxurious interior. The same design team has crafted the vessel’s outer aesthetics and inner ambiance, ensuring a cohesive look and feel. Hot Lab is responsible for the entire Atlantique line, spanning lengths from 37m to 65m.“The concept for the exterior design originated from our vision of infusing the elegance, fluidity, and simplicity of sailboat lines into the realm of motor yachts,” said Antonio Romano, commercial director of the Viken Group and co-founder of Hot Lab. “This guiding principle has influenced the entire Atlantique range, a key element in attracting the owner's interest.”The exterior of Frette is reminiscent of natural forms, echoing the gentle curves of a shell or pebbled stone. Each deck features smooth contours, seamlessly transitioning from the bow to the expansive transom, while the sun deck’s roof extends outward like a protective hand. The design harmoniously blends characteristics of both sailing and motor yachts, enhancing its elegant silhouette.“Our inspiration came from nature, specifically the cocoon and polished stone,” explained Hot Lab co-founder and design director Enrico Lumini. “The river stone, shaped by water, becomes perfectly smooth and hydrodynamic, capturing an elegance that only natural elements can impart.”This philosophy extends to the yacht’s exterior spaces, with the open stern creating a luxurious beach club experience, flanked by large foldable wings. A unique glass-walled pool complements the design while forging a direct connection to the ocean, sitting just 50cm above the water’s surface.To maintain an organic atmosphere, the yacht dispenses with bulky structural furniture, opting instead for lightweight freestanding ivory Flexform sofas and loungers that can be quickly rearranged to restore the deck’s natural flow.Another lounge area at the bow centers around a stunning rectangular panoramic pool, framed by white sunbeds and complemented by elm coffee tables from Paola Lenti, as well as a bar topped with natural teak stools. The sun deck is outfitted for casual gatherings, featuring a rectangular teak table for 14, striking marble accents, and ample sunpads.The interior boasts exceptionally high ceilings that create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, accentuated by floor-to-ceiling glass panels. Curved glass elements reinforce the yacht’s soft, organic aesthetic, with sliding aft doors that enable effortless circulation.“One of my proudest achievements is the main deck salon and its entrance, which feels like a winter garden, integrating the interior and exterior in a truly harmonic way,” remarked Lumini. “The expansive glass and side openings invite abundant natural light.”The main saloon features deep white sofas and contemporary styling with rounded shapes, including ivory linen seating by Paolo Castelli contrasted with blue-hued cushions. A warm palette of brushed and bleached American walnut parquet laid in herringbone complements oak wall panels that house a large TV framed in onyx and ivory marble. The space includes an elegant oak bench by Fendi, complete with a fabric seat and leather straps, and a sleek bar unit by Poltrona Frau.Hot Lab’s design also reveals a strong emphasis on cultural fusion. “The owner’s background reflects influences from both the East and the West,” Lumini noted. "This blend of details creates an expression that is both elegantly understated and distinctly personal."Moving to the upper deck, Hot Lab has crafted a vibrant gathering space. The outdoor aft deck features semicircular seating arrangements complemented by Flexform lounges and Paola Lenti coffee tables made from elm and iroko wood. Inside, a dining area showcases a custom panda marble table with Fendi Casa chairs, accommodating up to 12 guests, while the lounge area offers Giorgetti Caddy armchairs paired with Fendi Casa coffee tables, all enhanced by side windows that open fully for better circulation. Across five guest cabins, Hot Lab applies familiar motifs from the yacht’s design, featuring warm parquet and walls adorned with melange fabric, creating a harmonious ambiance.“Clients sought a light, airy space for social gatherings and business meetings,” Lumini explained. “Frette embodies that vision, providing a sophisticated yet welcoming environment.”Frette not only captivates with its design but also exemplifies the elegant harmony between its interiors and exteriors. Many claim to achieve seamless indoor-outdoor living, yet Hot Lab has realized this synergy in a way that feels both instinctive and natural. The studio champions a principle they call “Architecture for Voyagers.”“Architecture for Voyagers encapsulates our design ethos,” Romano stated. “It emphasizes respect for the object and its intended purpose. Yachts are unique in combining an outer shell – the pure design object – with a functional living space within. Striking a balance between these two aspects is a challenge that we have embraced, allowing us to create a unified whole.”Viken Group comprises Tillberg Design of Sweden, Hot Lab and Thalia Marine. The company offers a ­unique expertise compiled from vast ­experience with some of the world’s most complete shipbuilding ­projects. Viken Group specialises in every area of marine design, architecture and engineering and ­combines ­cultures, knowledge, experience and services. The company believes that the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.Columbus Yachts was established in 2008. In early 2019, the shipyard launched the new flagship Columbus Classic 80m M/Y Dragon, which joins in the Columbus star-studded fleet with the award-winning Sport Hybrid 40 Divine, the 57m M/Y Taiba and the 40m M/Y Eleonora III. The Columbus range offers four different lines: Sport, Classic, Crossover and Custom for unique projects. Currently, Palumbo Superyachts comprises a representative office in Monaco and a logistics network of five shipyards in the Mediterranean (Ancona, Malta, Marseille, Naples and Savona), operating under just as many world-renowned brand names: ISA Yachts, Columbus Yachts, Mondomarine, Extra Yachts and Palumbo SY Refit.Credits: Matthew Donaldson/Columbus Yachts

Damen Yachting has announced the successful launch of the third hull in the prestigious Amels 80 series at its hull-building facility in Galati, Romania. The 80-meter superyacht has now set sail for Vlissingen in the Netherlands, where it will commence the next stage of outfitting.Boasting a striking exterior design by renowned yacht designer Espen Øino, the Amels 80 seamlessly blends exceptional performance with modern aesthetics. While specific details of the interior remain under wraps, the yacht is expected to continue the series' tradition of luxury and innovative design.Project Manager Sander Peeters shared his excitement, stating, "Seeing the third Amels 80 take to the water is a remarkable milestone for our entire team. We eagerly anticipate her arrival in the Netherlands and look forward to progressing towards her delivery."The completion of the third Amels 80 is slated for 2026.Damen Yachting, a division within the Damen Shipyards Group, was created in 2019. The division combines the pedigree and heritage of Amels yachts with a growing portfolio of SeaXplorer yachts and Yacht Support vessels.Credits: Damen Yachting

In a splendid ceremony on a sunny and breezy day in Cape Town, SW108#02 Kiboko 4 was unveiled to the delight of her proud owners, the Southern Wind team, and a host of distinguished guests. This remarkable vessel marks the fourth yacht built for the owner by Southern Wind, reflecting his rich sailing history with its three predecessors.The owner shared his excitement, stating, “This yacht signifies an evolution for me – drawing inspiration from my previous boats while showcasing Southern Wind’s innovation in crafting reliable yachts with elegant and bold designs. Kiboko 4 features a lifting keel, an improved sail plan, and a performance mast, all aimed at boosting her competitiveness in regattas. I opted for a striking dark hull and mast that enhance her dynamic aesthetics.”Crafted in the legacy of her successful sistership, Gelliceaux, Kiboko 4 possesses a unique character that sets her apart. Marco Alberti, CEO of Southern Wind, emphasized the individuality of this yacht, stating, “Kiboko 4 embodies our Smart Custom philosophy, focusing on weight optimization, performance, and aesthetics while maintaining a light Mediterranean atmosphere in her interiors.”Integral to Kiboko 4's construction was her captain, whose collaboration with the shipyard ensured that the yacht met the owner's high expectations, particularly regarding systems and mechanical details.Looking to the future, the owner envisions Kiboko 4 as a family yacht for Mediterranean summers and his first transatlantic journey to the Caribbean, with dreams of exploration in Maine as well. As Marco Alberti reflected, “It is a privilege to create another yacht for this owner, strengthening our friendship while showcasing Southern Wind’s dedication to excellence in yacht craftsmanship.” 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