33.9 metre sailing yacht Geist by Spirit Yachts is the largest single-masted wooden yacht built in the UK since Shamrock V in the 1930s.
She has now left the Suffolk based yard and is on her way to the south coast of the UK. Geist is also the largest sailing superyacht coming from the Suffolk-based yard, as she exceeds the 30.66 metre Gaia, launched in 2007.
The Spirit 111 has been designed and built in-house by Spirit Yachts to be one of the most environmentally friendly sailing superyachts ever created. The sail plan of the yacht designing was to make her be capable to cruise without any crew. Spirit's founder and chief designer Sean Macmillan described her as "nothing less than a feat of engineering."
The interior of the Spirit 111 was created in partnership with Rhoades Young, which is Spirit Yachts’ first collaboration with an external design agency. Rhoades Young developed the initial concept for a unique, curved interior, which Spirit Yachts’ design team developed and brought to life together in the final plans.
Speaking about the project, Jonathan Rhodes said: "It was a joy to work with a client with an absolute passion for design. The brief was a combination of his love of furniture and organic architecture."
Four cabins, including the front owner's cabin, can accommodate eight guests. The forward cabin holds the spacious master suite, complete with curved sofas built into the side of the hull, double bed and ensuite. All heads have rounded, solid timber sinks integrated into the worktop and power showers. Custom-made seats and bed heads were built by former Spirit Yachts employees Will Fennell and Ben Jackson. Two-part seats are constructed from stripes of the American walnut.
The interior has almost no light switches; motion sensors turn lights on and off during the day. At night, sensors under the beds detect if someone is up and light the way to the nearest ensuite. If a guest starts to go elsewhere within the interior, the system deduces which way they are going and light the relevant areas in a very soft warm light.
Spirit Yachts worked collaboratively with leading marine and automotive suppliers to deliver on the owner’s eco brief. A Torqeedo electric propulsion system using a 100kW motor will propel the yacht silently for up to 40nm at eight knots from battery power alone. Whilst sailing, the propulsion system will regenerate the four BMW lithium battery banks by rotating the propeller shaft whilst the yacht is under sail. All power-consuming components have been carefully selected to be highly efficient and will use minimal energy without impacting performance or comfort.
The 60 Sunreef Power Eco electric catamaran has been named Catamaran of the Year 2025 in the Multipower category. The award was presented on April 23 during the International Multihull Show in La Grande Mothe, France. The prestigious accolade is granted by Multihulls World magazine to recognize the most innovative and outstanding catamarans in the industry.The 18m catamaran features an advanced solar energy system with photovoltaic panels integrated into the hulls, bimini roof, and superstructure. Powered by two electric motors, the vessel benefits from a continuous supply of clean energy, delivering a smooth and environmentally friendly sailing experience.A key feature of the 60 Sunreef Power Eco is its special ultralight battery, which enables silent and vibration-free operation. The catamaran is designed for comprehensive 360° sustainable sailing, incorporating an energy-efficient air conditioning system and eco-friendly materials in its finishes. Sunreef Yachts was founded by Francis Lapp in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland. Since then, the shipyard has been designing and manufacturing luxury sailing and power multihulls. Credits: Sunreef Yachts
April 25, 2025
Viken Group has introduced its latest innovation in the luxury cruise yacht sector – the 196-meter REI. Developed as a collaborative effort between the three brands of the Viken Group – TDoS (Tillberg Design of Sweden), Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – the project aims to set new standards in sustainable and exclusive cruise experiences.The REI project solidifies Viken Group’s position as a pioneer in the luxury cruise yacht segment. The vessel, designed to accommodate up to 112 guests and 125 crew members across its 10 decks, features a beam of 28 meters and offers a unique blend of adventure, sustainability, and exclusivity.“We are thrilled to introduce REI. The 196-meter project is the perfect illustration of the combined offerings of the Viken Group, where we manage exterior styling, engineering, master planning, and interior under one umbrella,” said Fredrik Johansson, Co-Founder of the Viken Group and Executive Director of TDoS. “This approach helps our clients streamline the process dramatically, control investments, and optimize outcomes for both guests and operators.”The yacht’s design features a streamlined exterior inspired by nature, combining technical, industrial, and automotive aesthetics with dynamic curves. In contrast, the contemporary interior offers a tranquil environment with adjustable lighting and tactile materials, providing a rare digital detox experience for guests.REI’s design focuses on balancing private and public spaces, featuring numerous dedicated areas for exclusive use. Notable amenities include duplex suites with private winter gardens and pools, massage areas, double-height windows showcasing panoramic views, and a stunning forward infinity pool.Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with multiple propulsion options including electric, hydrogen, solar, and wind power. The vessel also includes a secondary 27-meter expedition vessel for easy embarkation and disembarkation, powered by electric or solar energy.The onboard experience is designed to be ever-evolving, with entertainment, activities, and menus adapting to the time of year and location. The exploratory dining concept, themed ‘from sea, to land, to sky,’ offers a diverse culinary journey.“The market for cruise yachts is currently looking very promising,” said Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director at Viken Group. “Thanks to our three brands – TDoS, Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – Viken Group can harness our unique expertise across superyachts, cruise ships, and refits, meaning we are perfectly positioned to make our mark.”The REI project represents a significant advancement in the luxury cruise yacht sector, combining innovative design, sustainability, and an unparalleled guest experience.Credits: Viken Group
April 24, 2025
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