The new edition of the Palma International Boat Show, which started today at Palma’s Moll Vell, exceeds the figures from before the pandemic. Thus, the fair will have 276 participating companies, six more than in 2019 and 49 more than last year, which represents an increase of 21% over 2021. In addition, a total of 264 vessels will be presented on the water.
One of the aspects to be highlighted of the new edition is the participation of new companies which have never before taken part in the PIBS. Specifically, 28% of the exhibitors are coming to Palma for the first time to show their nautical novelties. This is due to a segmentation of the surface area that has allowed them to gain a little more exhibition space despite having a fairground of the same dimensions of 81,388 sq. m. In addition, it is also due to the fact that, due to the lack of stock that some of the companies have suffered, not all the moorings have been occupied as planned, which has allowed to accommodate new additions, allowing to offer a very broad sample of what is currently the marine industry.
In the coming edition (54%) are local companies, (18%) national and (28%) international. In fact, in recent years the Palma International Boat Show has become the event that opens the nautical season and one of the most important gateways for international companies that want to establish themselves on the islands, or to establish relations with local firms and thus open up new business channels.
The Palma International Boat Show includes the Palma Superyacht Village, for the sale and rental of boats over 24 meters in length. This year it is characterized by having the largest exhibition of sailboats in Europe, as well as a wide range of motor boats. This area also includes the area dedicated to the repair and maintenance of boats (refit & repair), which this year has the participation of 21 companies dedicated to this activity of the nautical industry, as well as service companies in other areas of the fair. On the other hand, the Palma Superyacht Village will be inaugurating a new space dedicated to crews, where specialized activities and training will be held, a commitment to growth in the coming years.
Here are the three impressive brokerage sailing yachts to see on display.
La Luna
Perini Navi
53.2m
La Luna is a 53.2m ketch-rigged sailing yacht with a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. She was delivered in 1997 by Italian shipyard Perini Navi with in-house interior and exterior design, she was most recently refitted in 2017 and presents in fine condition.
Particularly special features include the circular 'big-top' circus lounge on the main deck, a unique feature and the entertainment focus of this yacht. Complete with 270-degree views, lounge, dining for 10 guests and sit-up bar, this remarkably atmospheric space has access through the wheelhouse or from the sidedecks. The yacht also has a beach club with dayhead and sea terrace as well as a swim platform with shower aft added during the latest refit, a midships boarding ladder for all-weather use and stowage for two 7m Novamarine tenders beneath foredeck hatches.
La Luna will be showcased by Burgess.
Surama
Royal Huisman
40.7m
Surama is a ketch-rigged sailing yacht, built by the Royal Huisman Shipyard in Holland. She was built to a design by Ted Hood and was launched in 1997. Upgraded extensively over the years, Surama underwent her most recent refit in 2017. Surama has a very spacious three cabin layout, enabling her to accommodate up to eight guests. The large owner’s suite is aft and has a private study as well as direct cockpit access, and there are two guest cabins mid-ships both en suite and each with an additional pullman berth. Surama’s contemporary interior is designed by Andrew Winch with a light, modern styling, sweeping curves and bi-level sight lines. The deck layout has been carefully considered to feature areas for both guest use and ease of sail handling, with a large main cockpit for dining, and sun area forward.
Surama will be presented by Camper and Nicholsons.
Rainbow
Holland Jachtbouw
39.95m
Rainbow is a sailing yacht that is second-to-none. This sloop sailing yacht was built by Holland Jachtbouw with naval architecture by Dykstra Naval Architects as a replica of the classic J Class yacht Rainbow, which won the America’s Cup in 1934. Luxury yacht Rainbow is the first J Class to have an innovative hybrid propulsion and power system. The yacht is operated on Hy-Store Li-ion batteries and a lightweight 50kw Hy-Gen variable speed generator combined with the 50kw main engine with an integrated flywheel generator to provide power. The sailing yacht’s batteries are able to be charged while sailing — lessening the carbon footprint. Furthermore, sailing yacht Rainbow is an exceptionally quiet vessel, thanks to her innovative electric systems and floating interior.
Rainbow will be showcased by Northrop and Johnson.
Credits: Burgess; Camper and Nicholsons; Northrop and Johnson
Henk de Vries III will retire as Director of Feadship and CEO of Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw on 1 May 2025, concluding nearly four decades of leadership in the superyacht industry. He will transition to an Ambassador role for Feadship while maintaining involvement as a non-executive board member and shareholder of the family-owned shipbuilder.Henk de Vries De Vries joined the company in 1987 and became a director/shareholder in 1996 alongside his cousin Tom de Vries. Under their leadership, De Vries expanded to seven operating companies with over 1,200 employees. The group remains fully family-owned and holds a 50% stake in Feadship.A proponent of sustainability, de Vries co-founded the Water Revolution Foundation in 2018 and continues as its Board Chairman. The organization focuses on reducing yachting’s ecological impact through science-based initiatives.Leadership transitions to Roderick de Vries as CEO and Operational Director, with Bas Nederpelt assuming the role of Chief Commercial Officer and Feadship Director. The new executive team brings over 80 years of combined experience at De Vries.Henk and Tom de VriesHenk de Vries stated: “The four members of our new executive board bring with them over eighty years of De Vries experience. Their deep understanding of the company ensures it is in very capable hands.”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
April 25, 2025
Apreamare California, the brand’s new exclusive dealer for the U.S. West Coast, will present the American premiere of the Gozzo 38 Cabin at the Newport Beach International Boat Show from May 1st to 4th. The new dealership, led by entrepreneur Jack Suski, marks Apreamare’s return to the U.S. market, where the brand has previously sold nearly 100 boats across Florida, California, Connecticut, and other regions.Based in San Francisco Bay, Apreamare California maintains direct ties with the Sorrento shipyard, ensuring clients receive an authentic Made in Italy experience.The Gozzo 38 Cabin is a year-round cruising version of the popular Gozzo line, designed for enhanced comfort in rougher waters while retaining the open version’s signature style. Developed by Cataldo Aprea, Marco Casali, and Umberto Tagliavini, the model features a redesigned deckhouse with panoramic windows, offering a 360-degree view and a fully enclosed dinette.Giovanni Aprea, Sales Director of Apreamare, stated: “Overseas shipowners have always shown a strong appreciation for Apreamare boats, attracted by the timeless style of our creations, the excellent navigation capabilities, and the endless customization possibilities. With Apreamare California and our participation in the Newport Beach boat show, we bring this heritage directly to our esteemed American customers.”Jack Suski, CEO of Apreamare California, added: “I am thrilled to introduce the Gozzo 38 Cabin to California. Apreamare’s elegance and seaworthiness perfectly align with West Coast boating culture, offering owners the opportunity to cruise the coastline in style and with confidence.”The Newport Beach International Boat Show will be held at Lido Marina Village.Credits: Apreamare
April 25, 2025
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