Few superyachts have ever gained a level of recognition across mainstream audiences as has the A fleet in recent years. Designed by Starck, their lines have become the most polarizing in the yachting sector and brought unprecedented attention to the field in general.
Initially sketched by Starck in a matter of minutes according to the French designer, the project for Motor Yacht A started back in 2004 when Russian billionaire, Andrey Melnichenko contracted him for the project. Starck later said in interviews that the brief simply said the yacht had to have six cabins and approximately measure its current length, the rest was left up to the designer.
At that point, the Frenchman had completed two yachts already, a 24-meter sailing yacht named Virtuelle and the 65m Feadship, Wedge Too. The project was nonetheless ambitious, to create an original yacht that stood out and didn't mimick anything done before. Designed to have volume, whilst at the same time living in the light, Starck emphasized that the layout needed to be simple and human without too many corridors.
Starck is known for often pushing for his own style in his projects and designs, not necessarily folding to the requests of the owner. Instead, he says he tries to understand their needs and come up with a creative solution as he did with Motor Yacht A according to his interviews.
Delivered in 2008 by Blohm+Voss, a German shipyard since acquired by Lurssen, Motor Yacht A hit headlines in the worldwide press for her polarizing design and didn't leave anyone indifferent. Innovative amenities onboard included a large main salon that stretched as a single room throughout the main deck and encouraged socializing.
Another key element in her design was the creation of a spacious, lounging zone forward on the yacht's bow. Whereas such areas are typically found towards the aft, Starck believed that it allowed to be closer to the sea and better enjoy the yacht. The space combines both shaded and open spaces for entertainment and sunbathing. The bow also features a swimming pool with jets and a helipad.
Starck dedicated much space and attention to the tender garage on Motor Yacht A. Whereas in most superyachts, it is merely a technical space accessed, essentially only by crew, on the 119-meter it is a fully integrant part of the yacht's guest areas. Finished in wood and with a extremely high ceiling, the tender garage houses a plethora of options to get to shore as well as a lounging area.
Aft of the yacht is a platform that opens up directly onto the sea for swimming. Often found on yachts of a smaller scale, such a set up is particularly unusual for a megayacht of M/Y A's size. Instead of merely lying on top of the water, however, it actually lowers into the water at an angle comfortable for its guests to simply step into the water.
Following its delivery, M/Y A continued to make headlines as it cruised around the world. Just as some believed her newsworthiness would fade, images of project 787 started to emerge online in early 2015 as it left its shed at Nobiskrug to start sea trials. Even more polarizing and again designed by Starck, it wasn't long before it became clear the 142.8-meter yacht would become S/Y A.
Although her 142.8-meter length would give Melnichenko's new flagship the title of largest sailing yacht in the world, its technical classification as a sail-assisted motor yacht led to many viewing her more as a hybrid between the two types. As a result some argued, the 108-meter Black Pearl, designed by Ken Freivokh and built by Oceanco, should be considered the largest sailing yacht.
With masts taller than Big Ben at nearly 100 meters in height, S/Y A boasts over 12,600 GT of interior volume, just 3,100 less than Dilbar, the most voluminous yacht in the world. By this measurement, she's also 4.6 times larger than the largest sailing yacht in the world, the 108-meter Black Pearl. Stretching across a beam of 24.8 meters at her widest point, S/Y A could reach a top speed of 20 knots during her sea trials without using her sails.
Spanning across eight decks, S/Y A was designed by Starck, similarly to M/Y A. Her rig and keel were, however, done by Dykstra Naval Architects, a company famous for their work on the 88m Maltese Falcon as well as the Black Pearl. A more closed yacht than M/Y A, the 142.8-meter features a myriad of balconies throughout its hull.
S/Y A was built in Germany by Nobiskrug, a shipyard owned by the Safa brothers' Privinvest Group, which also includes CMN and ADMShipyards. The sailing yacht left Nobiskrug in February 2017, heading to Spain for further sea trials and some interior fittings.
Shrouded in secrecy throughout her build and following her delivery, very little details are known about the amenities onboard the sailing yacht. Spotter imagery has, however, shown that towards the bow of the yacht is a large swimming pool with sunpads around it that can be covered by a retractable roof. Other known elements include a beach club aft of the yacht with a folding platform. Two hot tubs can also be seen aft of the 142.8-meter's upper decks.
A year prior to the delivery of S/Y A, Melnichenko's motor yacht was put up for sale according to Forbes Russia. The 119-meter was, however, subsequently taken off the brokerage market according to several reports and is still owned by the Russian billionaire. In 2016, the yacht had travelled across a lot of large cities including Bordeaux, Amsterdam, London, Rotterdam and spent a significant amount of time in the Gulf. She is currently in the Indian Ocean.
Valued by Forbes at $13.2 billion, Andrey Melnichenko currently sits in their ranking as the 9th richest man in Russia. The 45-year-old started his entrepreneurial career as a 2nd year college student in the 1990s with a chain of currency-exchange booths, from which later emerged MDM Bank. In 1997, he co-founded a holding company that went on to create fertilizer producer, Eurochem, pipe exporter TMK and SUEK. According to Forbes Russia, the partners invested near $1 billion at the time to build out this holding between 2000 and 2002.
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Nauta Design is thrilled to announce that the Southern Wind SW108 Gelliceaux has been honored with the ISS Award 2024 in the Best Sail 24-40m category.The prestigious Design & Leadership Award Gala took place on October 30 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, drawing together some of the most significant figures from the international yachting industry to celebrate this year's exceptional yacht launches.The Gelliceaux, the first in the Southern Wind 108 series, has been recognized by the judges for its innovative approach to sustainable sailing, featuring a state-of-the-art diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system. This unique project, designed from inception to prioritize eco-friendliness, sets a new standard for performance sailing. The judges praised Gelliceaux for its integration of modern design elements that harmonize with its sleek exterior, offering a cohesive and forward-looking sailing experience.Jim Schmicker and Jeremy Peek at ISS AwardsMassimo Gino of Nauta Design expressed pride in Gelliceaux's achievement: “We are pleased and proud that the Southern Wind 108’ Gelliceaux won the ISS Award. We extend our gratitude to everyone involved in the project, from the construction teams at Southern Wind to the talented Farr Yacht Design. A special thanks to the Owners, whose vision and collaboration made the creative process truly rewarding."Gelliceaux is part of the ‘GT’ series of Southern Wind bluewater sailing yachts, which also includes the award-winning SW105 Taniwha and SW96 Nyumba.As one of the first Southern Wind yachts equipped with a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system, Gelliceaux not only showcases impressive performance, having clinched the overall title at the 2024 St Barth’s Bucket and excelling at the 2024 Ibiza JoySail in the Performance Cruising L division, but also stands out for its striking aesthetic.The yacht's deck design is characterized by clean geometry that embodies the signature Nauta GT look. Its sporty coach roof, adorned with teak and a large central skylight, seamlessly transitions to ‘floating’ bench seats, enhancing both functionality and grace. A distinctive Z-shaped composite coaming gives Gelliceaux an agile profile, while the innovative opening transom creates a staircase leading to the beach platform – perfect for connecting guests with the sea when anchored.The interior of Gelliceaux is a study in elegance, emphasizing a soothing Mediterranean vibe with a warm color palette and refined fabric-lined walls. The two-level saloon features a unique lounge sofa that bridges both levels, contributing to an open and inviting atmosphere.Natural light floods the interior through expansive hull windows and skylights, complemented by soft shapes and rounded edges for a harmonious aesthetic. The expertly designed furniture appears freestanding, enhancing the open space feel and creating a cozy ambiance that is both stylish and sophisticated.Southern Wind is a boutique bluewater sailing yacht shipyard founded in Cape Town in 1991. Since its foundation, SWS has specialized in the production of semi-custom high-performance superyachts. Credits: Nauta Design
November 4, 2024
The Swan Sardinia Challenge, a groundbreaking international sailing event focused on the newly launched ClubSwan 28, concluded successfully yesterday in Villasimius, southeastern Sardinia. Running from October 30 to November 2, the challenge marked the final stage of the 2024 Nations League within the esteemed ClubSwan Racing One Design circuit. The Swiss team Anya Race clinched the overall Nations League title, followed closely by Japan's Swing, featuring Olympic gold medalist Will Ryan as tactician, and the French team Marcello. Swing triumphed in the Swan Sardinia Challenge, with Anya Race taking second and the American team Play Bigger finishing in third.Sailing conditions throughout this exhilarating week were idyllic, permitting eight competitive races among the five national teams. The final day showcased an easterly wind fluctuating between 10 and 14 knots before tapering off below 10 knots.Keisuke Suzuki, owner of the victorious Swing team, expressed his enthusiasm: "I’m thrilled to have won for the first time in this class. I’d love to come back again next year. With only five crew members, communication is crucial."Will Ryan reflected on the final race, stating, “We were very close to the Swiss team, engaging in a competitive back-and-forth that heightened the pressure. This intensity pushed us to perform better and secure our victory. The team did an outstanding job, showcasing impressive downwind speed that helped us navigate tight situations. It’s been fantastic to be a part of this event and demonstrate the ClubSwan 28’s capabilities.”Giulio Gatti, owner of Anya Race, commented on the competition experience: “I had a lot of fun and fully enjoyed the event. Although we expected to win today, that wasn't the case – congratulations to the Japanese team for their exceptional sailing. I hope to learn from them for the next event. As more boats join the fleet next season, it’ll only get more exciting, and the friendships formed here make it all the more enjoyable.”Cecilia Perotti, racing with her team called Out of Comfort Zone, relayed her thrilling journey: “It’s my first time participating in a regatta, and there were moments I truly felt 'out of my comfort zone.' Winning a race was an exhilarating experience, filled with adrenaline until the very end!”“The Swan Sardinia Challenge successfully extended the tourist season in Villasimius beyond October," remarked Gianluca Dessì, the town’s mayor. “This event has showcased the beauty and potential of our region during off-peak times, attracting visitors eager to enjoy the local beaches and excellent sailing conditions.”Giovanni Pomati, CEO of Nautor Swan, praised the event’s showcase of the ClubSwan 28, emphasizing its role in promoting inclusivity in sailing. Luisa Bambozzi, Managing Director of ClubSwan Racing, thanked the local partners for their support in creating a welcoming environment for all participants.Co-organized by the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, this event exemplified the spirit of camaraderie and passion for sailing, setting the stage for many more thrilling competitions in the future.Nautor Swan was founded in 1966 in Pietarsaari, Finland. The builder entered the superyacht market in 1999. Since then, the yard has continued building high-performance sailing yachts in three different lines; ClubSwan, Swan Yachts and Maxi Swan Yachts. Credit: Nautor Swan
November 4, 2024
The impressive 75.75-meter Feadship One, featuring four spacious decks, has set sail with a blend of elegant design and practical layout tailored for both private enjoyment and charter excellence.The vessel exudes luxury and comfort, with strikingly simple exterior lines crafted by Studio De Voogt. The sophisticated interior is designed by Paris-based Gilles & Boissier, renowned for their work on the prestigious Baccarat Hotel in New York.“The goal was to create a masculine yet timeless and elegant design,” explains Thijs Orth, a designer at Studio De Voogt. “The bold forms and predominantly straight lines are enhanced by subtly nuanced surfaces that reflect light, adding visual interest to the yacht. Our collaboration with the engineering team was essential to ensure optimal functionality.”Orth highlights design details such as the chamfered edges on the bow’s bulwark, which gradually flatten as the sheer line extends toward the stern. This design element is echoed in the widebody windows on the main deck and the white-painted superstructure.“To create a softer, more sensual look, we incorporated a pronounced tumblehome viewable from the stern,” states Orth, noting that this curvature continues along the sides of the sundeck roof.On the main deck, a luxurious full-beam VIP stateroom features a private lounge and an integrated balcony that can be enjoyed while cruising, making it a perfect retreat. This expansive suite can also function as a second master stateroom for charter guests.The master stateroom located on the upper deck opens to a terrace complete with a largest tub and adaptable lounging area. The elevated foredeck is designed as a touch-and-go helipad, while the garage below accommodates a 9.50-meter limo tender and a variety of water toys.The yacht boasts a large swimming pool on the main deck's aft section, complemented by a hot tub on the sundeck. The bridge deck features an aft-facing gym surrounded by wrap-around glazing and glass doors that open on three sides. Notably, diagonal teak decking has been introduced, adding a unique visual feature.In contrast to the contemporary trend of terraced main decks, One showcases a traditional transom design with elegant, sweeping staircases leading to a remarkably large swim platform complete with integrated swim stairs. Two inward-folding transom doors provide access to the beach club, illuminated naturally by the glass-bottomed pool above.With accommodation for twelve guests, including a master stateroom, a VIP suite, and four double staterooms on the lower deck, One can host eighteen crew members. The yacht is powered by twin MTU main engines, allowing it to achieve speeds over 15 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles at 12 knots.“We thoroughly enjoyed the design process for this yacht,” Orth concludes. “Achieving a look of masculine elegance is challenging, but One successfully embodies a robust yet sleek and chic aesthetic.”One is scheduled for delivery in early 2025, with Arjen van Elk representing her for sale on behalf of Feadship, in collaboration with Edmiston.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
November 4, 2024
Construction is underway at the Mallorca-based shipyard of Servicios Técnicos Portuarios (STP), marking the start of an €8 million initiative aimed at modernising the facility to accommodate some of the largest vessels in the fleet for refitting and maintenance.To address the growing demand for large yacht services, STP's expansion aims to elevate productivity and streamline operations while expanding the shipyard's capabilities. “We have frequently received requests for mooring spaces for yachts exceeding 100 meters in length, and until now, we have struggled to meet that demand,” stated Joan Rosselló, general manager of STP. “With limited options for large berths in Palma, the new dedicated berths will significantly enhance our repair services and improve workflow across shipyard activities.”This major expansion is poised to invigorate Mallorca's local economy, drawing more significant refit projects to the area. STP estimates that the expansion could generate an additional €50 to €60 million in annual revenue for the region.On the technical side, the shipyard's total area will grow from 130,000 square meters to 162,000 square meters, incorporating 102,000 square meters of land and 60,000 square meters of water space. This enhancement utilizes previously underutilised areas at the edges of the current shipyard footprint, facilitating further development within STP’s existing concession.The waterway expansion will introduce five new berths that can accommodate yachts of up to 110 meters, adding to the existing three superyacht berths. On dry land, STP plans to establish specialized zones for various tasks, including a new covered section specifically for mast removal, repair, and painting.Additionally, STP is prioritising sustainability by installing photovoltaic panels on the new covered areas and the parking canopies. The anticipated solar energy output is expected to power approximately 115 apartments and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 124 tonnes annually.The new berths will be operational by the end of 2024, while the rest of the works are scheduled for completion in spring 2025.Credits: STP
November 1, 2024
Royal Huisman announces that its impressive 59.7m high-performance sloop, Sarissa, has triumphed in three categories at the ISS Awards Gala held in Fort Lauderdale. The awards were determined and presented by esteemed peers within the superyacht industry, making this recognition particularly significant for the team.Sarissa has been honored with the titles of “Yacht of the Year,” “Best Interior Sail,” and “Best in Sail 40m+” at the International Superyacht Society Awards.Sarissa stands out for its state-of-the-art technology, exceptional naval architecture, and distinctive design, showcasing Royal Huisman’s commitment to innovation and excellence. Constructed using lightweight Alustar® aluminum and carbon composites, Sarissa not only minimizes fuel consumption but also enhances speed and maneuverability. Its forward-facing retractable propulsion system further enhances performance, reliability, and comfort, aligning with the industry's shift toward sustainability. Developed in collaboration with Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design, interior designer Liaigre, and owners’ representative Gregory Monks, Sarissa beautifully marries elegance with functionality, fulfilling the owner’s goal of an environmentally conscious yet high-performance superyacht.Congratulations are extended to the owners of Sarissa, along with heartfelt thanks from the design and build team. Jan Timmerman, CEO of Royal Huisman, states: “On behalf of our team, I would like to express our happiness and honor in receiving these awards. However, while we appreciate this recognition, we remain focused on our future projects, and we understand that a shipyard is only as strong as its next creation."Earlier this year, Sarissa was recognized as "Sailing Yacht of the Year" and "Best Sailing Yacht of 40m and Above" at the World Superyacht Awards 2024. She also garnered five significant awards at Boat International’s Design & Innovation Awards, including "Innovation of the Year."Royal Huisman is a Dutch shipyard established in 1884 in Ronduite, building and refitting custom luxury sailing and motor yachts at its shipyard in Vollenhove, the Netherlands.Credits: Royal Huisman
November 1, 2024