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.
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
The Sunseeker 131 motor yacht ‘Best of Me’ has entered the luxury yacht market through Camper & Nicholsons. Built in 2014, the vessel has undergone a comprehensive refit in 2023, bringing it up to the latest standards of comfort and performance.The yacht measures 40 meters in length and features exterior design by Don Shead. The interior, spanning three decks, has been reconfigured during the recent refit to accommodate up to 12 guests across six staterooms. The master suite is located on the main deck, offering panoramic views and direct access to the aft deck.Key features include a spacious beach club area with a hydraulic swim platform, a large sundeck with alfresco dining facilities, and a fully equipped gym. The yacht is powered by twin Caterpillar engines, delivering a top speed of 30 knots and a cruising speed of 25 knots.The refit included upgrades to the vessel’s technical systems, including new generators, stabilization systems, and air conditioning units. The interior received new furnishings and finishes, with a focus on creating a contemporary, luxurious ambiance.“Best of Me presents an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a well-maintained, high-performance yacht with a proven pedigree,” said a spokesperson from Camper & Nicholsons. “The recent refit has ensured that the yacht meets the highest standards of comfort and performance expected from a vessel of this caliber.”The yacht is currently available for viewing in the Mediterranean and is offered for sale through Camper & Nicholsons, one of the world’s leading yacht brokers. The asking price and further details are available upon request through the brokerage firm.The vessel’s layout includes a master stateroom on the main deck, a VIP stateroom on the upper deck, four additional guest staterooms on the lower deck, crew quarters for up to 10 staff, multiple entertainment areas, and state-of-the-art audio-visual systems.The yacht is equipped with advanced navigation systems, including stabilizers at anchor and underway, ensuring comfort during both cruising and stationary periods. The exterior decks provide ample space for socializing and relaxing, with multiple seating areas and dining options both inside and outside.Best of Me is registered in the Cayman Islands and is compliant with all relevant international regulations and standards. The yacht is offered with a full inventory of water toys and tenders, making it ready for immediate enjoyment by its new owner.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
April 22, 2025
Moonen Yachts has announced the sale of the Moonen 110 Mustique YN202, now named MIDNIGHT SAGA. The transaction was facilitated by Moonen’s Global Sales Representatives and IYC brokers Matthew Stone and Richard Gray, who represented both the buyer and the seller in the deal.The sale was concluded during the 2025 Palm Beach International Boat Show, where the yacht was showcased at the IYC display and available for private viewings. Currently located in Florida, the 34-meter yacht will soon transit to European waters for delivery to its new owner.The Moonen 110 Mustique features design work by René van der Velden and interior finishes by Studio Indigo based in London. The yacht offers accommodation for up to 10 guests, including a full-beam Owner’s Stateroom with 180-degree panoramic views. Additional features include spacious exterior decks for socializing and dining, a generous bridge deck, and an interior volume of 279 gross tons.The vessel boasts operational capabilities such as fuel efficiency, long-range cruising ability, shallow draft, and low acoustic impact. It also comes with Moonen’s comprehensive shipyard warranty.“We are thrilled to confirm the sale of YN202, the first hull in the Moonen 110 series,” said Nicky van Zon, Technical Director of Moonen Yachts. “As a long-range steel yacht built with Moonen Yachts’ renowned Dutch engineering and exceptional craftsmanship, MIDNIGHT SAGA is a truly remarkable vessel. We wish the new owner many years of serene and luxurious cruising.”Richard Gray, Head of Sales UK, added, “This sale marks a significant milestone for both IYC and Moonen Yachts. It’s always a privilege to guide a client through the purchase of such a meticulously built yacht, and even more rewarding when the entire process is managed in-house. This was a true team effort between IYC and the dedicated team at Moonen Yachts. We’re now looking forward to introducing the yacht to the charter market, with an exciting cruising itinerary that will perfectly showcase the quality and capabilities of a Moonen build.”Matthew Stone, Managing Partner, California, and IYC Sales Consultant, commented, “This sale reflects the strength of our collaborative approach and partnership with the Shipyard. The Moonen 110 is an exceptional platform, and the yacht’s new owner immediately recognized its unique capabilities and refined craftsmanship. We’re excited to support the new owner and the vessel’s global journey.”Credits: Moonen Yachts
April 22, 2025
Italian shipyard Baglietto has delivered the 43.7-meter motor yacht Speedy Bear, a custom Fast44 model designed by Francesco Paszkowski Design with interior collaboration from Margherita Casprini. The aluminum-hulled vessel follows the design lineage of Baglietto's fast yachts, including the 46M Lucky Me. Speedy Bear accommodates 10 guests across five cabins: a main-deck master suite forward of the saloon, two VIP doubles, and two convertible singles with additional berths. Stern fold-down balconies create expanded sunbathing space around the pool, while the garage door converts to a swim platform extending the beach club area.Powered by twin MTU engines, the yacht reaches a cruising speed of 23 knots and maximum speed of 27 knots. Baglietto's CCO Fabio Ermetto stated: "This is indeed a custom project that exudes classical beauty while also featuring innovative solutions. Speedy Bear reminds me of several historical and yet revolutionary vessels built by Baglietto – which marked the history of yachting – while also being a brand-new, one-of-a-kind project, faithful to Baglietto's DNA."Baglietto Spa is an Italian boat builder based in La Spezia specializing in new aluminum light alloy yachts ranging between 35m and 50m in length and steel and light aluminum alloy displacement megayachts starting at 40m.Credits: Baglietto
April 21, 2025
The 53-meter sailing yacht Drumbeat is now available for charter in the West Mediterranean for summer 2025 through Camper & Nicholsons, with weekly rates starting at EUR210,000. Built by Alloy Yachts in 2002 and refitted in 2019, the Dubois Naval Architects-designed ketch combines performance sailing credentials with luxury accommodations.Drumbeat accommodates 10 guests in five cabins, including a full-beam master suite featuring panoramic views, a lounge area, and hot tub. The 2019 interior refurbishment incorporated warm wood tones, contemporary art, and refined textiles. The yacht's sailing pedigree includes winning the Rolex Transatlantic Challenge. Current features include a transformable transom swim platform, spacious aft deck lounge with alfresco dining, and shaded relaxation areas. A 10-person professional crew maintains a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio.Technical specifications confirm the vessel's 53-meter length and ketch rig configuration. Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
April 21, 2025