Spotted

In a decisive move, The Italian Sea Group S.P.A. (TISG) has announced that it will be pursuing legal action against The New York Times following an article published on October 31, 2024. The company claims that the piece contained serious inaccuracies regarding the sinking of its yacht, the Bayesian, which has tarnished the reputation of the renowned Perini Navi brand, known for its excellence in luxury yachting.In its statement, TISG asserted that the article lacked technical accuracy and failed to credit qualified sources for its claims. The company emphasized that it acquired the Perini Navi brand and related assets in January 2021 and thus cannot be held accountable for events prior to that acquisition.Addressing specific claims made in the article:Sloop vs. Ketch Stability: TISG refuted allegations relating to the stability of the single-mast design, asserting that the Bayesian fully complies with stability standards set by the Maritime Coastguard Agency.Expert Opinions: The company questioned the validity of unnamed experts cited in the article, insisting that the Bayesian’s design was developed by esteemed naval architect Ron Holland, thereby ensuring a reliable design.Watertight Doors: TISG clarified that the watertight doors mentioned in the article meet regulatory requirements and can only allow water ingress under improper operation.Responsibility for Vulnerabilities: TISG stated that any alleged vulnerabilities reported were likely the result of operational errors rather than design flaws.Ballast Considerations: The company defended the design of the ballast system, asserting that it was strategically placed to balance the yacht without compromising safety.Deck Design: TISG contested claims regarding the deck design affecting buoyancy, stating that such factors are regulated and do not violate safety standards.Regulatory Compliance: The company highlighted that the Bayesian's stability booklet has received MCA approval, confirming compliance with international standards.Wind Conditions During Incident: TISG provided further technical data, asserting that anticipated heeling angles during adverse weather do not support claims of inherent design flaws.In summary, TISG declared that the Bayesian is unsinkable when operated under proper sailing conditions and expressed confidence that ongoing investigations will clarify the circumstances of the incident.The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters. Credit: The Italian Sea Group; Yacht Harbour archive

Over the span of August to early October, Custom Line celebrated the launch of four bespoke yachts, ranging in length from 30 to 42 meters, at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard.The festivities commenced on August 1, with the launch of the 32nd hull in the Custom Line Navetta 33 displacement series, attended by the owner’s family from the AMAS region, shipyard workers, and external contractors. This 33-meter yacht, showcasing unmatched refinement and timeless design, boasts a beam of 7.52 meters. The creation of the Custom Line Navetta 33 was a collaborative effort between the Strategic Product Committee, overseeing exterior styling, and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, responsible for the interior aesthetics, with contributions from the Custom Line Atelier. Tailored to reflect the unique style of its seasoned owner, the yacht features a significant focus on social spaces, furnished with expansive custom dining and coffee tables that can accommodate up to 10 guests. The interiors, characterized by an elegant simplicity, utilize a palette of softer tones – white, gray, and bronze – contrasted by darker shades such as deep brown and lava gray, all complemented by luxurious materials including Taj Mahal and Essential Grey marble, Canadian maple wood, and fine leather.On September 10, the twenty-first Custom Line Navetta 30 made its debut. This 28.43-meter yacht, designed through a partnership between the Strategic Product Department and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, features interior architecture by ACPV ARCHITECTS Alberto Citterio Patricia Viel and exterior styling by Filippo Salvetti. It emphasizes spaciousness across three decks, fostering communal and relaxing experiences. With generous glass surfaces and a sleek silhouette, the yacht emphasizes performance with improved fuel efficiency. Its interiors blend classic and modern aesthetics, marked by refined carbon accents and exclusive lacquering, while bespoke furnishings crafted from fine materials exude a sporty yet chic elegance.September 25 marked the launch of the fifth unit of the Custom Line 140’ flagship planing line. This yacht, the result of collaborative design efforts, highlights a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, drawing inspiration from residential architecture to create a refined ‘Made in Italy’ style. High-quality materials like Invisible Grey and polished Azul Cielo marbles merge harmoniously with features inspired by the natural world, such as the soft textures and colors found in the sea. The sophisticated interplay of muted and vibrant hues enriches the yacht’s aesthetic, while metallic finishes and unique fabrics elevate its contemporary elegance.Lastly, on October 10, the twenty-third unit of the Custom Line 106’ planing line was unveiled. Spanning 32.82 meters with a 7.4-meter beam, this yacht embodies a perfect blend of aesthetics and comfort, with an emphasis on natural light and fluid space transitions. Designed by the Ferretti Group Engineering Department and the Custom Line Atelier, it showcases a chic design with warm, inviting interiors highlighted by ribbed walnut panels and luxurious marbles such as Travertino bronze. Subtle color variations enhance the yacht's sophisticated atmosphere, making it a remarkable addition to Custom Line's fleet.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

Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones and Persico Marine are excited to announce the upcoming launch of their cutting-edge high-performance yacht, Magic Carpet e, which has successfully completed a technical pre-launch at Persico’s La Spezia shipyard.The Magic Carpet brand has long been synonymous with prestige, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the yachting world. At the forefront of this legacy is Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones, whose vision and passion have led to the creation of a series of yachts that redefine both performance at sea and comfort on board. More than 20 years after the original Magic Carpet first made waves, Sir Lindsay is embarking on a new journey with Persico Marine, known for their exceptional high-performance yachts. Together, they are poised to reveal the latest groundbreaking addition: Magic Carpet e.This stunning 31-meter yacht, designed by the acclaimed naval architect Guillaume Verdier, combines artistic design with state-of-the-art technology. Magic Carpet e promises unparalleled performance for competitive sailing, setting new standards in the industry.By partnering with Persico Marine, Sir Lindsay ensures that Magic Carpet e exemplifies the highest levels of yacht design, engineering, and craftsmanship. With the yacht nearing completion at Persico’s La Spezia facility following its recent technical pre-launch, the official unveiling is planned for spring 2025 in Saint-Tropez. The yachting community eagerly awaits this event, as testing and fine-tuning push the boundaries of innovation, paving the way for an extraordinary season.As anticipation grows, Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones's unwavering commitment to advancing technological frontiers remains central to the project, ensuring that Magic Carpet e upholds the legacy of pushing performance into the future. While built for racing excellence, the yacht also emphasizes luxurious interiors and comfort.For Persico Marine, Magic Carpet e represents the culmination of its commitment to innovation in marine design and engineering. “Projects like Magic Carpet e challenge us to break new ground,” said Marcello Persico, CEO of Persico Marine. “In a time when innovative, fast sailing yachts seem to hinge on foiling, this project demonstrates that there are virtually no limits to the pioneering concepts we can create for a 'traditional yacht.' Magic Carpet e truly elevates high-performance technology to unprecedented levels.”The grand unveiling is scheduled for March 2025.Credits: Studio-Borlenghi/Persico Marine

Giovanna Vitelli, Chair of Azimut|Benetti Group, has been honored as the National Winner of the 2024 EY Entrepreneur of the Year® Award, marking the twenty-seventh edition of this prestigious recognition.The award was conferred by an independent jury comprising representatives from various institutions, economics, and industry sectors, who commended Vitelli for her leadership in steering the company towards not only increased growth and profitability but also for her commitment to technological innovation, sustainability, employee welfare, and corporate social responsibility.Giovanna VitelliThis accolade is bestowed annually by EY, the global leader in professional services, on Italian entrepreneurs who significantly impact their country’s economic, social, and environmental landscape. The award recognizes those who excel in transformation, innovation, and sustainability amid evolving challenges.Vitelli began her journey in corporate law before joining the Board of Directors of her family-owned Azimut|Benetti Group in 2000. She advanced through the ranks, eventually becoming Chair in 2023. Under her leadership, the Group — a global leader in mega yacht manufacturing — reported a revenue of 1.3 billion euros in the last financial year, reflecting a remarkable 55% growth over the past four years.Staying true to the mission and values instilled by her father, Vitelli emphasizes continual investment in innovation as essential to maintaining leadership and creating value for both people and the local community. The Group's product development strategy aligns with the aspirations of both the Azimut and Benetti brands, focusing on setting new trends in onboard lifestyle and pursuing technological advancements to minimize environmental impacts.Since the start of her entrepreneurial journey, Vitelli has challenged conventional nautical design by encouraging teams to rethink onboard spaces, resulting in offerings that emphasize contemporary living with a focus on elegance, conviviality, and connection to the sea. Noteworthy innovations include Benetti's Oasis Deck® and Azimut's Seadeck Series, both of which have become market leaders.In terms of environmental sustainability, the Group's strategic approach melds practical solutions with visionary goals, achieving leading results in emissions reductions through advancements like weight reduction, high-efficiency hull designs, hybrid propulsion, and smart onboard power management. Additionally, in partnerships with independent organizations and academic institutions, they advocate for establishing certification standards for consumption and emissions, promoting a more responsible industry.To support this vision, Vitelli has initiated efforts to enhance managerial culture and governance, establishing the Azimut|Benetti Group Corporate Academy, which focuses on professional development and the cultivation of Italian excellence in technology, engineering, and manufacturing, while also aiding the next generation entering the yachting sector."This award signifies recognition for the achievements of our entire Group as we guide our clients into a new era of yachting and a renewed relationship with the sea,” stated Giovanna Vitelli. “As a family company, we have the unique opportunity to focus on long-term value. Today, that commitment means reducing emissions to foster a more sustainable nautical industry that can inspire others to follow suit, all while merging unparalleled beauty with advanced technology. I extend my gratitude to the 2,250 dedicated individuals at Azimut|Benetti Group worldwide, who, alongside me, continue to navigate this journey."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

Cantiere delle Marche announces the launch of the custom explorer yacht Tremenda, previously known as Project T. After thorough consideration, an experienced Owner selected Cantiere delle Marche to bring his extraordinary vision to life. The meticulously crafted explorer yacht made her debut in the waters of Ancona, witnessed by the owner and their family."Creating this fully custom explorer yacht has been a complex yet rewarding journey," stated Vasco Buonpensiere, co-founder and CEO of Cantiere delle Marche. "Our collaboration with Giorgio M. Cassetta has been remarkably productive, marking the beginning of a successful partnership that has influenced our new and incredibly successful RAW series. Tremenda embodies CdM’s core values – vision, character, and true ocean-going capability. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in bringing this exceptional explorer yacht to completion: to the owners for entrusting us with this ambitious project, to designer Giorgio Cassetta for challenging us to elevate our standards, to Arrow Yacht and FGI Yacht Group for their essential contributions, and to Ian Kerr for sharing his invaluable expertise."Italian designer Giorgio M. Cassetta shaped the striking lines of this 45-meter explorer yacht, featuring a graceful sheer line that transitions from a near-vertical bow to a welcoming transom, complete with an expansive beach area. The interior design further enhances the yacht's unique character and aesthetic."I have a profound appreciation for this extraordinary project,” said Cassetta. "The owners had a clear and well-defined vision. Their expertise and meticulous attention to detail, proportions, functionality, and flow made the design of Tremenda a truly unique experience. It was a privilege to design this yacht for them, and I sincerely thank CdM for their outstanding execution in bringing our vision to life."The owner expressed deep satisfaction with Tremenda: "What impressed us most was CdM's ability to deliver the yacht through finely-tuned teamwork, where every member contributed with skill and dedication, always striving for excellence."Tremenda's bold, striking design exemplifies the power of simplicity, characterized by geometric lines that are both rigorous and refined. This perfect blend of minimalism and elegance commands attention, leaving a lasting impression with her confident and sophisticated presence.Upon stepping aboard Tremenda, guests are greeted with a thoughtfully designed layout. Each space is perfectly proportioned, featuring expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that enhance the sense of openness and connection to the surroundings. The yacht’s layout optimizes guest and crew circulation, ensuring seamless movement throughout, maximizing comfort for owners and guests while facilitating efficient service.The yacht accommodates eight guests in four spacious suites located on the Lower deck. The owners enjoy a private, full-beam apartment on the forward section of the main deck, complete with separate his-and-her bathrooms, a dressing area, and a cozy lounging space.Smart naval architecture and engineering solutions by Sergio Cutolo/Hydro Tec allow Tremenda to fully utilize her displacement hull. Powered by twin Man V12-1400 engines, she boasts a top speed of 14.5 knots and an impressive range exceeding 4,000 nautical miles, establishing herself as a stunning and highly efficient explorer yacht.CdM's story begins in 2010. The facilities cover an overall surface of 16˙000 square meters, including 7˙000 sq. m of workshops and 1˙000 sq. m of docks. Since 2015, the shipyard has been the world’s leading builder of explorer yachts. Based in Ancona, Cantiere delle Marche builds yachts from 26m to 43m in length.Credits: CdM