Skipper Power Boats Reach 60 Knots at Supermarine’s First Open House

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

Benetti is set to showcase at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show from October 30 to November 3, featuring Abbentures²—the Diamond 44M model making its American debut – and the Oasis 34M Grateful.This year, Benetti's participation in FLIBS, one of the most prestigious boat shows globally, marks a special highlight with the introduction of the Diamond 44M, Abbentures². This 44-meter fiberglass flagship, designed by Cassetta Yacht Designers for its exterior and crafted by Benetti for its interiors, features four decks. The main deck houses the master cabin and spacious salon, along with kitchen and service areas. The upper deck provides a generous living space that flows seamlessly outdoors to the stern, complemented by a helm station and captain's quarters. The expansive sun deck offers over 102 square meters that can be customized to the owner's desires, while the lower deck includes four VIP cabins and crew accommodation.Abbentures²During the design phase, great emphasis was placed on achieving superior soundproofing, positioning the Diamond 44M at the forefront of its category. The yacht is equipped with two MAN engines, each delivering 1,400 HP at 2,300 RPM, enabling a top speed of 15 knots and a cruising range of 4,100 nautical miles at 11 knots.Alongside, the Oasis 34M, Grateful, will also be on display. Its elegant design spans three decks and features a spacious Sun Deck with an inviting, low-profile stern. Tailored for owners who wish to embrace the marine environment, Grateful results from a collaboration between Benetti, the UK design firm RWD – responsible for the exterior aesthetics – and Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture, who conceptualized the interiors. The innovative Oasis Deck® at the aft invites a multisensory experience with its lateral wings opening to enhance space. Central to the deck is an infinity pool, offering a breathtaking 270-degree vista, complemented by the seamlessly integrated main deck saloon. This design fosters a harmonious blend of sun and shade, providing guests with opportunities for relaxation throughout the day, while promoting social interaction across the deck.GratefulThe interior design features a palette of neutral tones and shades of grey, accented with blue and sky blue detailing, including a custom bookcase on the main deck, which replaces the standard Green Onyx with a blue mirror finish. The layout has also been refreshed; for instance, the dining table now resides on the main deck instead of the upper deck, the jet ski is stored in the bow on the upper deck with a davit system for easy retrieval, and a fire pit has been included on the main deck. Additionally, an American bar has been incorporated into the aft area of the sun deck.“FLIBS is a pivotal event for Benetti as we navigate the ever-expanding market in the Americas. This positive trajectory is underscored by our recent sales of an 80-meter fully custom yacht and two new units from the B.Now 50M line, showcasing our commitment and the trust customers have in our offerings,” stated Nick Bischoff, Benetti Country Manager for the Americas.On October 30 at 10:30 AM, a special event for American brokers will take place at the Benetti stand, highlighting new projects first unveiled at the Monaco Yacht Show. The presentation will feature designer Giorgio M. Cassetta introducing the new B.Loft line, along with Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture and Igor Lobanov presenting the new B.Yond models (40M and 57M). Additionally, the RWD studio will share details on the new Motopanfilo 45M, showcasing their exterior designs alongside interiors developed by Lazzarini Pickering Architetti.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

In a spectacular showdown that captivated sailing enthusiasts worldwide, Team Emirates New Zealand clinched the America’s Cup for an unprecedented third consecutive time, besting the INEOS Britannia challengers with a final score of 7-2 in the race series held in Barcelona. The victory, achieved on Saturday, came after a nail-biting two days where the British team had briefly ignited hopes of a return to glory, winning two successive races that narrowed the series to 4-2.However, the Kiwis surged back, decisively winning two more races on Friday before sealing their historic three-peat with a dramatic finish 37 seconds ahead of INEOS in the final race. The black-clad team celebrated their victory by spraying Moët champagne, dousing the cherished America’s Cup trophy as thousands of Kiwi fans cheered from the sidelines, having traveled from afar to witness their team's feat.This 37th edition of the America’s Cup marked a significant shift in the event’s storied history, evolving into an extravagant ten-month spectacle unlike any before. Traditionally viewed as a solemn regatta, it transformed into a vibrant international festival in Barcelona, where sponsors such as Red Bull injected a sense of youthful energy into the proceedings. The event boasted thrilling performances, featuring BMX riders, breakdancers, and cliff divers, setting the stage for an untraditional sailing event.Barcelona’s bustling waterfront became the heart of the action, with millions of visitors flocking to experience the competition firsthand. The event organizers anticipated reaching over a billion viewers globally, showcasing cutting-edge technology through multiple cameras and drone cinematography that captured the exhilarating speed of the racing yachts.Moreover, the America’s Cup provided significant economic benefits for the host city, contributing approximately one billion Euros and creating around 20,000 jobs throughout its duration. The local community actively engaged with the Cup, highlighted by a captivating opening ceremony featuring renowned Catalonian performers and impressive drone displays.While the grandeur of the event drew attention, it wasn't without controversy. Several local activists rallied against the perceived excess associated with the Cup. Nevertheless, many locals, including a journalist who chose to remain unnamed, argued that the Cup brought in tourists with a more refined taste, enhancing Barcelona’s global reputation.Despite the defeat, INEOS Britannia’s efforts – backed by a budget exceeding $150 million – symbolized the relentless pursuit of the coveted trophy. Led by celebrated skipper Ben Ainslie, the British team’s journey reaffirms the enduring allure of the America’s Cup, a testament to the complexity and cutthroat competition inherent in this time-honored sport.As INEOS prepares for a potential rematch in the future, the legacy of the 37th America’s Cup promises to elevate the event’s status, making it not only a race for the trophy but a celebration of innovation, camaraderie, and the spirit of sailing that transcends national boundaries.Credits: America’s Cup

Northrop & Johnson has introduced the 164' Westport yacht, Valinor, now available for sale at a price of USD28,995,000. Represented by Yacht Brokers Wes Sanford and Sean Doyle, this distinguished 50-meter vessel, hull number 11 out of only 14, will be showcased at the upcoming 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show from October 30 to November 3 – an event you won’t want to miss.Delivered in 2013 and having successfully completed a thorough 10-year ABS survey in 2022, Valinor is in excellent condition and primed for extended voyages. With a reliable Westport hull design, she cruises smoothly at 19.5 knots, boasts a top speed of 21 knots, and offers impressive long-range capabilities, capable of covering 3,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 10 knots.Designed by Donald Starkey, Valinor features a sophisticated interior that combines warm wood finishes with a comfortable layout. Accommodating up to 15 guests across six staterooms, the yacht includes a luxurious full-beam master suite on the bridge deck, complete with a private terrace, and a VIP suite on the main deck. The lower deck is home to two king staterooms and two twin cabins with Pullman berths, ensuring ample space for family and guests. Additionally, Valinor provides accommodations for up to 12 crew members, including a captain’s cabin on the main deck.Valinor’s exterior spaces are exceptional, designed for relaxation and entertainment. The bridge deck aft is equipped with a custom BBQ setup and a spacious dining area, while the sundeck features a full bar, hot tub, and gym equipment, enhancing the outdoor experience. Two terraces, accessible from the bridge deck, expand the options for alfresco living, and the bow includes convenient storage for toys and tenders.Meticulously maintained, Valinor is ready for a new owner to take advantage of her extensive amenities, well-designed layout, and dependable performance.The largest builder in North America, Westport was founded in 1964. Westport Yachts has built and launched a wide variety of vessels, from commercial fishing boats and fast passenger ferries to luxurious motor yachts. Today Westport builds composite motor yachts.Credit: Northrop & Johnson