Latent demand for even larger Sunseeker yachts is driving force behind the brand’s move into metal-built vessels. In a truly momentous step, Sunseeker International has announced plans to move into the world of metal-built yachts as it looks to capitalise on its success in the superyacht market and the demand it sees from owners for even larger Sunseeker vessels. This exciting development will see the British brand partner with renowned Dutch builders, ICON Yachts, to produce a new 49-metre yacht, the first of which will launch in 2021.
This new venture moves the brand into a completely different method of build for the first time in its 50-year history, but the idea behind this move is certainly not a recent one as Sunseeker International Sales Director, Sean Robertson explains: “We have wanted to build larger vessels for some time; we know there is demand there for larger Sunseeker yachts as the 155 Yacht proved. The decision to stop building that model was a commercial one based on space and capacity and certainly not due to lack of demand, so we knew we needed to rethink our approach to this size of vessel and have spent considerable time looking at various opportunities.
“A move into metal also means there is no ceiling as to how big we can go in the future, but obviously this requires different expertise and so it was essential to find the right partner to support the project. Finding experience and expertise in metal build was not the issue. Finding a yard that shared the same progressive, innovative spirit to create something truly special and, most importantly, one which will provide us with the flexibility to build a true Sunseeker was the challenge. We have certainly found all of that with ICON.”
ICON Yachts was founded in late 2005 by Ton Van Dam and a group of investors. The founders were then joined by business partners, including the company’s current Chief Executive Officer, Jen Wartena. Rather than building unique, one-off custom superyachts that would require three or more years to design and construct, ICON Yachts developed a groundbreaking ‘blueprint’ hull which allows owners to fully customise their yachts from the waterline up. ICON has more than delivered on this concept, producing several superyachts to date within exceptionally short build times, and in the two-year range. In addition, ICON is dedicated to maintaining one of the greenest shipyards in the yachting industry, outfitting each yacht it builds with equipment to help reduce her environmental impact.
Jen Wartena, CEO of ICON Yachts, comments: “There is a great synergy between ICON and Sunseeker because we are combining both of our strengths; our capacity and metal yacht building capabilities with Sunseeker’s sales expertise and marketing power. I am confident about the partnership because for the past few years there has been a high demand for Dutch pedigree yachts in this size range. We believe the Sunseeker by ICON will revolutionise the industry in a positive way. It is an exciting period for ICON Yachts and this new partnership with Sunseeker is part of our ongoing growth strategy where we are investing heavily in facilities and people to improve our capability and capacity.”
The new yacht will be built in the ICON yard in the Netherlands using a proven fast displacement hull design, but the naval architecture, design and engineering will be unmistakably Sunseeker.
Sean Robertson explains: “This will certainly not be a badge engineering exercise. We are an established superyacht brand in our own right and so we are merely combining the metal build expertise of ICON with our design DNA, technical expertise and market know-how. She will absolutely be a Sunseeker.”
Sunseeker’s first foray into the superyacht market came with the introduction of the now iconic 105 Yacht in 2001. Since then, Britain’s biggest boat builder has seen unprecedented growth in the sector, delivering more than 125 yachts over 100 feet and firmly placing the Poole-based builder in the top three superyacht builders in the world. This new partnership with ICON is the next stage in that remarkable growth story and will be marketed and sold by Sunseeker under the “Sunseeker by ICON” nomenclature.
The new 49m tri-deck yacht follows the iconic Sunseeker exterior lines and offers exceptional space and volume, with an interior that can be styled to each owner’s unique taste via Sunseeker’s ‘Bespoke’ service. The theme throughout is one of space and flexibility, maximising volume and providing compelling features to enhance enjoyment on board. Many of these features are usually only associated with much larger craft including the plunge pool on the main deck and the exceptional beach club with drop down bulwarks and transom to create an incredible space for relaxing or entertaining close to the water. Standard guest configuration is for 10 guests in five cabins, with scope for up to 12 to be accommodated depending upon layout chosen.
Hull #1 is due for launch in Spring 2021.
Bilgin Yachts has launched Al Reem, the third and final yacht in its 80.1-meter Bilgin 263 series. Sold in 2022 through brokerage firm Bluewater Yachting, Al Reem follows the delivery of Tatiana, introduced at the 2021 Monaco Yacht Show as the largest yacht built in Turkey, and Leona, delivered in 2023.Al Reem, formerly known as Project Silence, is said to offer increased volume – around 100GT more than its predecessors – and additional exterior deck space, as well as a larger mast structure. All three units of the series share a slender exterior profile by Unique Yacht Design and interiors by H2 Yacht Design.The latest hull incorporates various design modifications, including a teak foredeck, a superstructure finished in a metallic grey-white and black scheme, and a reconfigured internal layout with enlarged living areas. Technical refinements include a lengthened upper deck and an extra covered area at the stern.The owner’s deck, positioned on the main deck level, provides 300-degree views and access to an outdoor terrace and hot tub. Guest accommodation comprises two VIP cabins on the main deck and three guest cabins on the lower deck. A secondary saloon on the lower deck includes a balcony-style opening to the sea. An elevator connects all decks.Al Reem’s interior uses materials such as matte timber, cream leather wall panels, silk carpets, and marble feature walls. According to H2 Yacht Design’s Jonny Horsfield, the interior is designed to be “light and modern,” differentiating it from the layout and design of Tatiana.<iframe width=560 height=315 src=https://www.youtube.com/embed/FF3TcLuDFNk?si=VGpDFVuo2UIL8Pt5 title=YouTube video player frameborder=0 allow=accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share referrerpolicy=strict-origin-when-cross-origin allowfullscreen></iframe>In terms of technical capabilities, Al Reem features a new ventilation system and increased generator capacity. Equipped with twin 2,560 kW engines, the yacht can reach a maximum speed of 19 knots and has a reported range of up to 6,000 nautical miles.With the launch of Al Reem, Bilgin Yachts concludes its 263 series. Delivery of Al Reem is scheduled for 2024. Bilgin Yachts is a boutique shipyard on the European side of Istanbul, building 50 to 120m luxury superyachts. It has been a family-run business for five generations since the early 1900s.Credits: Bilgin Yachts
December 13, 2024
Northrop & Johnson has confirmed the sale of the 25.8-meter Feadship motor yacht Monara. Yacht brokers Ed Dickinson and Ed Cavendish acted on behalf of both buyer and seller, with the yacht last listed at EUR4,500,000. Originally built in 1969, Monara underwent a complete rebuild at Feadship’s Makkum yard in 2016, placing it among the Feadship Heritage Fleet. The rebuild included the installation of Zero Speed stabilizers and a silent electric battery system.Inside, the main salon is designed with warm oak finishes and offers an L-shaped settee and a concealed pop-up TV. A glass floor panel provides a view of the yacht’s restored Gardner main engines. The galley features a Dutch door that opens to the main deck, creating an integrated indoor-outdoor living area.Accommodations include four staterooms for up to eight guests. The master suite, lit by four hull windows, has a queen-size bed and an ensuite with adjustable privacy glass. The VIP cabin is also ensuite, while two additional guest cabins can be configured as twin or double rooms and share a bathroom.Externally, Monara retains classic yacht elements, including a clipper bow and canoe stern. The covered aft deck features seating around a teak table, accommodating up to 12 for alfresco meals. The sundeck is equipped for multiple functions, offering a convertible 10-person sunbed, an L-shaped lounge, an additional sunbed forward, and shade options via adjustable sails.Following its recent sale, Monara continues to represent a combination of traditional Feadship craftsmanship and contemporary onboard technology.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
December 13, 2024
Ocean Independence has unveiled Project Kumu, a 46-meter hybrid-powered yacht concept developed by a design team from D-ID in Winchester, with naval architecture by Southampton-based Lateral Engineering. Initially conceived for a specific client seeking a fast day-boat style superyacht constructed in aluminum and featuring a sailing yacht profile, the project evolved after the client did not proceed.Project Kumu’s design includes a hull optimized for efficiency and a hybrid propulsion system intended to enable silent operation at anchor. The main deck’s aft section spans approximately 200 square metres, incorporating fold-down platforms and flexible social areas. An open-plan saloon connects directly to an external bar and deck spaces, aiming to provide an uninterrupted flow between the interior and exterior. Large windows, a skylight, and an adaptable layout are intended to allow daylight to define and separate spaces without fixed boundaries.Accommodation plans include three substantial cabins for the owner and VIP guests on the main deck’s bow section, while two additional guest cabins and a secondary multi-function saloon with a balcony door are positioned on the lower deck. The design also includes a sun deck of about 285 square meters, made possible by sinking the wheelhouse into the deck structure.With an anticipated range of 3,500 nautical miles, the yacht’s hybrid propulsion targets long-distance travel, such as routes between the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Storage for two tenders – one 7.5 meters on the aft deck and one 5.5 meters in the toy garage – alongside space for various equipment, is included in the concept.Ocean Independence indicates that Project Kumu is now ready for the next phase and notes that quotes are already available from several shipyards capable of bringing the concept into construction.Credits: Ocean Independence
December 13, 2024
The Azimut|Benetti Group has been named the leading global manufacturer of mega yachts for the 25th year, holding a 20% share of the market, according to the 2025 Global Order Book published by Boat International. The Group, which specializes in yachts over 24 meters, recorded 164 units under construction, totaling 5,905 meters in length.Azimut Seadeck 7 Hybrid ProjectThe company attributes its sustained success to strategic pillars such as product innovation, a focus on quality, global market reach, and investment in talent. Revenues for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2024, reached €1.3 billion, with a robust order portfolio extending through 2029.Azimut|Benetti Group’s product range spans Azimut’s 12 to 44-meter yachts and Benetti’s larger vessels, including custom mega yachts exceeding 100 meters. The Group has introduced designs aimed at redefining onboard living spaces, with models such as the Azimut Seadeck Series and the Benetti Oasis garnering attention for their innovative concepts.In recent years, the Group has prioritized emissions reduction. Azimut offers a fleet where over half of the yachts are classified as Low Emission Yachts, incorporating varying levels of hybrid technology. Benetti, meanwhile, has 10 hybrid mega yachts under construction and hybrid options across most of its product lines. Notable models include Azimut’s Seadeck Series, with a reported 40% reduction in CO2 emissions, and Benetti’s B.Yond line, which achieves reductions of 24% in CO2 and 80% in NOX emissions.Benetti Veranda DeckAzimut|Benetti emphasizes in-house production for critical components and partners with a select supply chain to maintain quality. The Light Steel Hub in Tuscany and the upcoming Composite Hub for fiberglass and carbon fiber production are central to these efforts. The company also plans to expand its Lusben division, which specializes in refits for large yachts.Geographically, the Group balances its market presence between Europe, the United States, and MEA-APAC regions, leveraging exclusive dealer networks and strategic collaborations to manage local risks and optimize offerings.Benetti Veranda DeckThe company reports an 18% increase in staff over the past six years, driven by growth in operations. To preserve its expertise and culture, Azimut|Benetti has launched initiatives such as a Corporate Academy to transfer knowledge between generations and the “Nauticità” project, which allows employees to experience life aboard the company’s yachts.As the Group celebrates its 25th consecutive year as a market leader, its focus remains on long-term sustainability, technological innovation, and maintaining high standards across its operations.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
December 12, 2024
The Italian Sea Group is excited to reveal exclusive insights into Project Spyder, an impressive 88-meter megayacht currently in development. Collaborating with esteemed design firms Espen Øino International and FM Architettura, this project is poised to be one of the most ambitious and innovative undertakings in the luxury yachting sector.Kitson Yachts, a prominent Yachting Family Office based in Miami, has been closely following the progress of the Admiral Spyder since initial discussions began. Additionally, a second 73-meter Admiral megayacht is already in the works at The Italian Sea Group, marking another triumph in the collaboration between TISG and Kitson Yachts, which serves as an Authorized Sales Agency in the AMAS region. Main saloonSet for delivery in 2027, Project Spyder embodies the pinnacle of advanced technology, exclusive design, and unparalleled comfort. The partnership with Espen Øino International has resulted in a remarkable design and layout that harmonizes aesthetics, functionality, and comfort.Notably, the exterior design features a sophisticated and adaptable aft deck, providing generous spaces for both entertainment and relaxation. Each deck is equipped with expansive sliding and full-height glass panels, creating a seamless connection to the sea. These flexible spaces can easily transition from private family retreats to lively social areas.Main saloon Espen Øino International expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We value the opportunity to work with this particular client, the A-Group, FM Architettura, and The Italian Sea Group to create what will undoubtedly be a unique and meticulously crafted yacht. I can’t wait to see it launched!”A standout aspect of Project Spyder is its commitment to sustainability. The yacht features an innovative diesel-electric propulsion system with electric Azipods, ensuring low emissions and reduced fuel consumption. This eco-friendly design is further supported by five variable-speed generators, making it one of the most environmentally conscious yachts in its class.Main deck With a volume of approximately 3,000 GT, Spyder can host up to 18 guests across nine elegantly designed staterooms, including a master suite on the bridge deck that offers a fully private aft deck. Every area of the yacht is designed for maximum comfort, featuring spacious communal spaces like the main salon and an observation lounge on the upper deck.The interior design strikes a perfect balance between natural light and high-quality materials. Curated by FM Architettura, the interiors showcase carefully chosen colors, decorations, and finishes that harmonize with the abundant natural light. Generous ceiling heights, refined furnishings, and a meticulous selection of materials enhance the yacht's elegance and comfort, making every corner inviting and sophisticated.Owner's suite “We are truly happy and honored to have been chosen by the Owner and their family to develop the interior architecture and design of this beautiful ship. From the outset, there has been a clear and inspiring vision, and we are thoroughly enjoying our collaboration with the A Group, Espen Øino, and the shipyard in creating this truly special vessel. We cannot wait to see her navigate the seas and bring joy to her owners and their family,” commented FM Architettura Design Studio.The naval platform, fully engineered by The Italian Sea Group, features optimized hull lines that deliver exceptional performance and superior onboard comfort, ensuring a unique cruising experience.Beach club With its extraordinary blend of outstanding design, cutting-edge innovation, and sustainability, Project Spyder 88m is set to emerge as one of the most exclusive yachts in the global yachting arena.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: TISG
December 12, 2024