The German shipyard Abeking & Rasmussen has delivered a new motor yacht - the 68-metre Soaring - under extraordinary conditions.
Jörg Kleymann, Senior Project Manager of the company’s Yacht department, is not going to forget this particular experience: “About two weeks before the superyacht was to be handed over, half of Europe was engulfed into a ‘lockdown’ caused by the Covid-19 pandemic”. According to Kleymann, “It was simultaneously an extremely challenging time and a bold demonstration of the efficiency and flexibility of Abeking & Rasmussen, even under the harshest of conditions”. A special crisis management team, an elaborate safety and hygiene concept, as well as a two-shift production approach, helped the shipyard to deliver the yacht on time.
Soaring was built for an experienced owner whose briefing listed, amongst other things, a separate owner’s deck with aft looking grand master suite, the biggest possible tender and a gym together with a wellness centre both with direct access to water.
Apart from the Owner’s area the yacht features 4 Double-cabins and 1 VIP Suite, as well as generous double and single crew cabins in the bow, providing accommodation for up to 18 crew members.
The design pitch was won by Focus Yacht Design. The Bremen studio, only a short car ride from the yard itself, created a truly distinctive and impressive design with the harmonious and contemporary exterior, the prominent window surface, elegant grey–white colour scheme and Soaring’s signature aesthetic feature - a striking line stretching all the way from the bow to the swim platform.
In the words of Soaring’s designer Thomas Mühe: “I have experimented with this solid line, stretching the entire length of the superyacht, for years. And it all, finally, came together in Soaring”.
Further distinctive design elements are the bow side windows that work as a unified and solid feature lending the superyacht an element of dynamics. Thomas Mühe comments on the commission and its execution: “Our goal was not to put together a selection of attractive details, but to create a coherent and harmonious whole that was to be simultaneously impressive and imposing but most of all a reflection and representation of the owner’s central life themes and requests. Early on it was clear that the owner valued originality and had no interest in a yacht that could easily be mistaken for another”.
Technology-wise, Soaring’s captain has at his disposal already proven components. The steel / aluminium construction with a volume of 1541 GT is powered by two 1492 kilowatt strong MTU engines. The smooth hotel operations are ensured through 383 kilowatt strong Caterpillar generators and the tanks with a diesel capacity of 180 tons in total ensure a cruising radius of 4500 nautical miles. In addition, the superyacht fulfils the strict regulations of the IMO Trier III concept with its waste gas purification system.
Two Schottel thrusters provide comfortable manoeuvring, Naiad Zero Speed stabilizers cater to a smooth ride even when at anchor and two Compass tenders of 7.5m and 9m length respectively offer convenient and comfortable water transfers.
Interior work was done by, yet another Lemwerder company, Klaus Rodiek GmbH to the Focus Yacht Design specifications. They worked primarily with two types of wood, Amara and Tiama, natural stone and genuine Italian leather. The supremely outfitted living space used by the owner and his guests totals 471 square metres.
LOWER DECK
Soaring’s lower deck’s absolute highlight is the beach club with direct access to the swim platform. Together with the adjoining wellness centre the area boasts 74 square metres. Teak was used for flooring and the glossy eucalyptus, intertwined with 30cm long silver strings, for wall panelling.
The large sofa is custom-made for the superyacht as well as the ceiling-high Italian light sculpture.
The gym area, equipped with a ballet barre and a refreshment bar, connects with the wellness centre through a lobby that further leads to a dayhead and a shower as well as to a hammam port side and a massage room starboard side.
The hammam, decorated in natural stone mosaics, caters for up to six people and the massage room to two. A professionally trained crew member is on hand to offer various treatments to the owner and his guests.
Further forward on the lower deck is the engine room’s upper level and, located midship, yet another one of Soaring’s remarkable features. A 25 square metre starboard stowage is packed full of water toys including kayaks, surf boards, sea bobs, bicycles and electric scooters. Diving equipment can be found in the adjoining room and all of the equipment can be loaded and unloaded through a top hinged store hatch and a 400 kg-capacity crane.
Opposite, on port side, a 20 square metre galley with direct access to the cooling rooms is manned by a professional chef and thanks to its large windows is flooded in daylight.
MAIN DECK
For those boarding Soaring from a tender, the main deck is reached from the swim platform via stairs and when docked the superyacht can be reached via a swivel gangway. The ample aft deck contains a sofa with two side tables and a centrally placed round dining table for twelve. In order to provide the owner and his guests with privacy at lunch or dinner, especially in buzzing marinas, a side board with a retractable frosted glass panel placed between the sofa and the dining table offers visual cover if needed.
The 80 square metre salon, laid out with a hand-tufted rug, is classically partitioned into a lounge area with hand-made upholstered furniture and a dining area at the front of the room. The two areas are separated by a ceiling-high room divider, with an inset TV facing the sofa and bronze tiles throughout offer dazzling light effects in the natural sunlight. Almost parallel to the room divider are the panels on port and starboard side showing specific star constellations that are of personal significance to the owner. In addition, a piece of a genuine meteorite is incorporated into the interior so that the ‘cosmic’ theme is reflected manifold in the dining area.
The principally used wood in the salon is “stained Amara” and the Italian leather is in “Lugano” shade.
A starboard door leads from the salon into the lobby, the staircase and the guest cabins, all of which are located on the main deck. The visual highlight here is the Claus Hartmann’s sculpture depicting two stylized hippos. The Weser Island Harriersand based artist is best known for his figurehead works made for prominent ships such as the Gorch Fock. Focus Yacht Design drew the inspiration for this commission from the owner’s interest and love of nature. The superyacht’s very name Soaring recalls the free flight of an eagle.
The guests on Soaring pass the bronze hippos on their way to their cabins. The four 20 square metre rooms, three with double beds and one with two single beds, all embody a particular theme - Nautilus, Ginkgo, Turtle and Bamboo. The themes are reflected in the bed heads and travertine inlays in bath, corresponding to each cabin’s theme. At the end of the passageway is a luxurious 33 square metre VIP-cabin, stretching the whole width of the superyacht, with an ensuite and a separate dressing room. Theme of the VIP cabin is waterlily.
The two tenders are also stowed on the main deck. The 7.5m Compass sport and 9m limousine tenders match Soaring down to the striking line stretching across the length of their hulls and are lowered to the waterline using a crane.
OWNER’S DECK
The upper aft deck is used almost exclusively by the owner and this was a part of the superyacht’s concept from the very beginning. The 82 square metre stately master suite at the rear of the yacht is accessed through an 11 square metre office. Minimal furnishings, including an opulent armchair and a bed, reflect the starting idea behind Soaring’s concept of open spaces and free spirit, a motif seized upon once again in the eagle bed head on master bed. Sliding doors open on to the aft deck, offering complete privacy. A genuine dressing room of 13 square metres and a bath with a tub and a separate shower complete the owner’s grand suite.
In the passageway further forward are technical rooms, as well as an additional crew cabin. All the way at the very front of the upper deck, normally reserved for the master suite in other vessels, is the library. The original and unconventional lounge is glassed-in on three sides guaranteeing amazing views. Centrally placed in the room are three white, U-formed sofas and another visual highlight is on the back wall in the form of a bookshelf made of back-lit onyx. The library can also be completely dimmed, thus converting into a private cinema.
Forward of the library, the top of the tender garage allows the owner and his guests to practice their golf swings, naturally using biodegradable and water-soluble golf balls.
BRIDGE DECK
Soaring’s bridge deck is the uppermost deck itself. Behind the Portuguese bridge deck, the captain and his officers work in the fully integrated wheelhouse using Gyro compass, Synapsis-NX-Radar and Raytheon Anschütz Nautosteer Auto Pilot. The captain inhabits a 16 square metre cabin, next to a ships office used by the officers on board.
The aft deck, equipped with a Jacuzzi three metres in diameter with an adjoining bar and a generous sun pad, is once again reserved solely for the use of the owner and his guests. By request, the crew can organize a BBQ directly on the sun pad and a sofa with table offers additional seating possibilities.
Vripack unveils Project Supernova, an exciting new 60m explorer yacht built upon a proven platform with a 6m extension on the original 54m hull. Boasting refined exterior styling and a reimagined interior, this project combines reliability with bespoke design.The genesis of Project Supernova stemmed from the collaboration between Vripack and the owner of the second I Nova hull. Seeking to transform the yacht into a versatile vessel for explorative adventures, the owner's vision centered on flexibility and functionality. Key features include an expansive beach club on the lower deck with fold-down platforms, a well-equipped dive center, and a large helipad on the bridge deck with an integrated crane. The yacht also offers ample storage for expedition gear and two 12m containers for additional equipment.Internally, the owner's design brief called for a contemporary interpretation of classic American style, resulting in dark wood paneling, a sophisticated color palette, and luxurious textures throughout. Innovative design elements include a forward cigar lounge, a transparent crew passage created by double glass walkways, and an open-plan layout reminiscent of a loft-style apartment.Accommodations include a full-beam VIP suite on the main deck, four guest cabins on the lower deck, and a dedicated owner's deck with an oval-shaped master suite and private access to forward and aft decks. The sundeck offers panoramic views, a jacuzzi, and ample lounging space.While the existing 54m hull is now available for sale through IYC, Project Supernova presents an enticing opportunity for owners seeking a turnkey solution with engineering and a completed design ready for implementation. With its proven platform and innovative design, Project Supernova promises to elevate the experience of explorative yachting to new heights.Vripack is a yacht-design studio with a portfolio that represents over 7400 designs, made strong through its extensive naval architecture and engineering experience. From the moment they opened their doors in 1961, Vripack studio’s approach to design has been governed by the playful interaction between form and function.Credits: Vripack
April 16, 2024
Benetti has announced the launch of the Cosmico, as part of its esteemed Oasis 40M series. This stunning 40.8-meter superyacht emerged from the shipyard's facilities in Livorno, Italy, marking another milestone in Benetti's illustrious history. Scheduled for delivery in May 2024, Cosmico is the sixteenth vessel in the esteemed Oasis 40M lineup.Crafted in collaboration with British design studio RWD, Cosmico embodies the epitome of luxury and innovation. At the heart of its design lies the revolutionary Oasis Deck, a signature feature of Benetti yachts. This deck boasts a spacious flat platform complemented by two unfolding gunwales, creating captivating overwater balconies.Cosmico offers sumptuous accommodation across five lavish cabins, with interiors meticulously curated by Bonetti/Kozerski Architecture. The interior layout has been thoughtfully customized to enhance comfort and elegance, including unique touches like relocating the master berth to the cabin's center and positioning the outdoor dining area on the upper deck aft, complete with a luxurious quartzite-topped table.While interior visuals remain undisclosed, expect a harmonious blend of opulent walnut wood and leather-clad paneling, replacing the traditional lacquering found in previous designs. Oak boards adorn the interior flooring, adding a touch of sophistication to the yacht's ambiance.With an impressive 38 yachts currently in production or awaiting delivery, Benetti continues to set the standard for yacht craftsmanship. Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. They design, build and sell composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. Their fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom, to meet all the needs of the market, and they belong to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Benetti
April 15, 2024
Ancasta is set to make waves this spring with its diverse fleet showcased at key boat shows across the UK and Europe. With an array of vessels ranging from Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) to high-performance cruisers, both motor and sail, as well as fully customized luxury boats, Ancasta promises an exciting lineup for boating enthusiasts.Prestige F4"Stepping aboard and exploring a boat firsthand is the best way to truly experience it," remarks Will Blair, Ancasta’s Group Marketing Director, highlighting the importance of providing a wide selection of vessels for prospective buyers to discover their perfect match. Scorpion StingThe spring show season commences with the South Coast & Green Tech Boat Show in Southampton from April 19-21. Ancasta will present a variety of global brands, including Beneteau sail and power, Lagoon catamarans, Protector, and Scorpion RIBs, offering attendees a firsthand look at their impressive offerings.Among the showcased models is the Gran Turismo 45 from Beneteau, a sleek and sporty express cruiser boasting functionality, performance, and comfort. With its Air Step hull design and retractable hardtop, the Gran Turismo 45 promises an exhilarating cruising experience.Beneteau First 44Replacing the outgoing 47 model, the Swift Trawler 48 is another highlight. This mid-range semi-displacement flybridge cruiser features stylish profiles and contemporary interiors, offering panoramic views and ample space for leisure and entertainment.The Oceanis 37.1 and the First 44 from Beneteau, along with the Lagoon 42, Protector 310 Targa, and Protector 310 Chase, are among the other noteworthy models on display, showcasing innovation and versatility.Gran Turismo 45Following the Southampton show, Ancasta will host the Beneteau Customer Sea Trials in Port Ginesta, near Barcelona, from April 17-21. This five-day event allows prospective buyers to test a wide range of Beneteau models in actual navigable conditions before making a purchase decision.Next on the agenda is the Palma International Boat Show in Mallorca from April 25-28, where Ancasta will exhibit a premier selection of luxury power brand models, including the Prestige M48, Prestige F4, Prestige X60, and the magnificent Prestige M8.Prestige X60Finally, the British Motor Yacht Show in Swanwick, Southampton, from May 16-19, will see Ancasta showcasing top models from Bluegame, Prestige, Beneteau motor yachts, Protector, and Scorpion RIBs, offering attendees a glimpse into the latest innovations and designs in the boating world.Credits: Ancasta International Boat Sales
April 15, 2024
The Custom Line 140’ flagship hull number four launched on March 21 at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona. With a length overall of 42.61 meters and a maximum beam of 8.54 meters Custom Line 140’ is the result of collaboration between the Strategic Product Committee – which handled the exterior styling – and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, whose architects and designers created the interiors, supported by the strategic consulting and made-to-measure approach of the Custom Line Atelier. A yacht with a pronounced sporty character, with clear lines that extend from bow to stern, create a memorable combination of materials and colors represented by light structural surfaces and dark mirrored glass. One of the important features of the yacht is natural lighting and sea views, which are provided by floor—to-ceiling windows.The design of the exterior and interior spaces, inspired by residential architecture, is characterized by timeless elegance and refined "Made in Italy" style, complemented by the results of careful study of shapes and volumes. The decoration uses valuable natural materials such as travertine marble and breccia Capraia stone, both with a matte finish, European oak, natural teak and Libeccio leather.The yacht combines a combination of pale, muted colors with dominant shades of milky white and cream, enlivened by seductive, saturated shades of burgundy and bronze, and a special metallic paint obtained in the automotive industry is used for various body parts, which creates both a sporty and sophisticated effect.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
April 15, 2024
Columbus Yachts proudly announces the launch of the first unit of its Atlantique model, the magnificent Night Fury II, marking the beginning of a new era in luxury seafaring. Amidst a jubilant ceremony attended by the Owner and their family, Night Fury II emerged from the shipyard as a testament to unparalleled craftsmanship and design.Crafted with precision and passion, Night Fury II, a Columbus Atlantique 43-meter vessel, features a steel hull and aluminum superstructure, embodying elegance and performance in every detail. Designed by the renowned Hot Lab studio, the exterior and interior reflect the "Architecture for Voyagers" philosophy, offering a harmonious blend of style, functionality, and comfort tailored for extraordinary sea journeys.The exterior design evokes the fluidity of a sailing yacht, with soft, organic lines and a sleek profile reminiscent of a smoothly sculpted shell. The innovative "sailing-type" stern features a central swimming pool surrounded by a captivating C-shaped seating area, creating an immersive experience close to the water's edge.Inside, Night Fury II welcomes guests with expansive living spaces, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding seascape. The main and upper decks provide panoramic views and ample relaxation areas, ensuring unparalleled comfort for the Owner and their guests.Accommodating up to 12 guests in 6 luxurious cabins, including 2 VIP cabins and 4 double cabins, Night Fury II offers unrivaled comfort and privacy. Additionally, the crew quarters provide accommodation for up to 8 crew members, ensuring impeccable service throughout the voyage.Equipped with twin Cat C32 Acert engines delivering exceptional power and performance, Night Fury II achieves a maximum speed of 15.5 knots, allowing for swift and smooth cruising across the seas.As Night Fury II sets sail into the horizon, guided by Ocean Drive, it epitomizes the pinnacle of luxury exploration, promising unforgettable adventures on the high seas for its fortunate Owner and guests.Palumbo Superyachts began to take root in 2008, when the Columbus Yachts brand was established, and in 2011 launched its first 54 meter superyacht, emblematically christened “Prima” (“the First”). 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), and also operates the following brands: ISA Yachts, Extra Yachts, Columbus Yachts, Mondomarine and Palumbo SY Refit.Credits: Columbus Yachts
April 12, 2024