Tommaso Spadolini reveals the design of the new Explorer 49.5. The project, started a year ago and commissioned by an Italian owner, is now in the final stages before the start of construction.
“The owner's demands were very clear from the very beginning,” says Tommaso Spadolini. “First of all, to have large spaces, with as few differences in level as possible, and to have them covered and protected from the wind, so that the yacht could be enjoyed not just in the summer but mid-season as well. Then, they asked for a lift connecting all the bridges and, finally, for a flying bridge that wasn't a classic... flying bridge!”
Tommaso Spadolini
This is why Spadolini designed a flybridge – which can be reached by a lift, a staircase for guests and a service staircase for the crew – that was not just an area to relax in, with the classic “structural” sundeck, but a real meeting place for the owner and his family around the central galley unit, the large worktops and the table for twelve. In addition to the protection provided by the hardtop, it is possible to fit a “sail-inspired” sprayhood, which protects the flybridge on three sides when at anchor in a roadstead.
Transforming spaces – is one of the distinguishing features in the exteriors of this Explorer 49.5. For example the absence of fixed sunbathing areas was a specific request. Umbrellas and sunbeds can be removed as required.
Sunbeds and umbrellas also furnish the large flush deck cockpit that conceals a swimming pool. When closed, it remains perfectly integrated in the flooring; when opened, a hydraulic system raises it by 70 centimetres and it can be filled with sea water and enjoyed while sailing. Moving towards the stern, the transformer in the centre of the large swim platform allows people to get on or off the dinghy comfortably.
“We also designed a second service tender, because one of the owner's requests was that the side-opening aft garage should be able to accommodate a tender of at least six meters, in aluminium, with a bow that can be opened to bring ashore the motocross bikes and the quad that will be on board,” says Spadolini. “A rescue boat will be positioned at the bow.”
Another special feature of the yacht is three galleys. The open galley on the flybridge, the professional main galley on the lower deck, and a private galley on the main deck for the owner and his guests. In terms of the sleeping area, a classic layout was chosen. On the main deck we find the full-beam master suite with study, walk-in wardrobe and a double bathroom with central shower.
The Explorer 49.5 will be built with a steel hull and an aluminium superstructure and Tommaso Spadolini has managed, in these twelve months, to keep it under 500 GT: a very important feature for a 49.5m yacht and also a request from the owner.
“We are currently finalising the full technical specification: the Explorer 49.5 will have a guaranteed transatlantic range with a speed of ten knots using CAT engines. Everything has been designed to be able to safely cope with extreme navigations such as those in the Arctic Sea.”
With the project now almost complete, it is time to choose the shipyard that will construct it. “We are considering several possibilities,” Spadolini concludes. "For now, all we can say is that it will definitely be built in Italy.”
Credits: Tommaso Spadolini
Turkish shipyard Ares Yachts has introduced its first superyacht, the 62-meter ketch-rigged Simena. The steel-carbon composite vessel will debut at the 2025 Monaco Yacht Show (September 24-27) after completing sea trials.Designed to RINA Charter Class C standards, Simena ranks among the world's top 25 largest sailing yachts. Taka Yacht Design developed the exterior, while Design Unlimited created the interior blending classic and contemporary elements. The yacht features teak decks, mahogany joinery, and a hybrid propulsion system enabling silent electric operation up to 6 knots or 14.5-knot top speed with diesel assistance."Simena blends classic ketch elegance with cutting-edge technology," said Piraye Sahinkaya Orhun, Ares Yachts Projects Director. The yacht accommodates 12 guests and 9 crew, with a main-deck owner's suite and transatlantic range of 4,000 nm at 11 knots.Interior materials include walnut cabinetry, textured leathers, and marble-clad bathrooms. Northrop & Johnson holds the exclusive listing. Ares Yachts, situated in Antalya Free Zone on Turkey’s south coast, spans 40,000 square meters of build space across four large sheds. Besides Simena, the shipyard is concurrently working on other projects, including the 50m motor yacht Spitfire and a 54m explorer yacht known as Project Atlas. Additionally, Ares Yachts is developing a 65-85m yacht range in collaboration with Lateral Naval Architects.Credits: Ares Yachts
July 5, 2025
Columbus Yachts has started building its new 48-meter Crossover model at Palumbo Superyachts' Savona shipyard. The steel-hulled explorer with aluminum superstructures follows two previously sold Crossover units (42m and 47m), marking the shipyard's first self-financed project in this series.Designed by Hydro Tec, the vessel features an 8.6-meter beam and 2.75-meter draft, optimized for stability and long-range cruising. The exterior combines explorer-style proportions with a bulbous bow and streamlined stern for ocean-going capability. Key features include a multifunctional aft deck that can store a large tender or convert into a pool and lounge area.Accommodation includes six cabins for 12 guests, with the owner's suite on the upper deck and a VIP cabin on the main deck. The naval architecture was developed jointly by Hydro Tec and the shipyard's engineering team.No delivery date or price was disclosed. The Crossover series targets owners seeking a balance between expedition capability and contemporary yacht design.Founded in 2008 under Palumbo Superyachts, Columbus Yachts combines 50+ years of maritime expertise with modern yacht-building innovation. The brand gained recognition after launching its first 54m superyacht Prima in 2011 and later pioneering hybrid propulsion technology, earning RINA certification for its Sport Hybrid 40m.Specializing in semi-custom and full-custom builds (37m–120m), Columbus offers four lines: Atlantique, Crossover, Sport, and Classic. Its flagship 80m Dragon exemplifies its craftsmanship. As part of Palumbo Superyachts, the brand provides end-to-end owner support alongside sister yards ISA Yachts, Mondomarine, and Extra Yachts.Credits: Columbus Yachts
June 30, 2025
The 34th Monaco Yacht Show will take place from September 24-27, 2025, featuring approximately 560 exhibitors across Port Hercule. The event will display 120 superyachts, including 50 new builds from 2025, alongside 60 luxury tenders.Organizers have introduced a new sustainability program developed with the Water Revolution Foundation, highlighting exhibitors advancing environmental initiatives. The show's thematic zones include the Yacht Design & Innovation Hub for new concepts, the Adventure Area showcasing over 40 luxury vehicles and water toys, and the upper deck lounge for luxury goods and services."The exhibitor list helps future owners identify key contacts for custom builds, refits, or charters within an exclusive, innovation-focused environment," said Gaëlle Tallarida, Managing Director of the Monaco Yacht Show.The current exhibitor roster includes shipyards, designers, equipment manufacturers, and luxury service providers. The list remains subject to updates through summer 2025.Credits: MYS
June 30, 2025
The latest 80-meter Amels Limited Editions superyacht has arrived at Damen Yachting's Vlissingen shipyard in the Netherlands after construction at their Galatz facility in Romania. The vessel will now undergo full outfitting in preparation for delivery in 2027.Project Manager Danker Rijk stated: "After an impressive launch in our Galatz shipyard, we are delighted to welcome this Amels 80 to Vlissingen to commence the outfitting phase. This is an exciting milestone toward delivering another exceptional yacht on schedule."The 2,175 GT superyacht features exterior design by Espen Øino and interiors by Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design. With accommodations for 14 guests and 21 crew members, the vessel represents Damen Yachting's combination of custom features with proven yacht-building technology.The Amels 80 follows the Limited Editions series' approach of offering semi-custom superyachts with reduced build times compared to fully custom projects. No further details about the owner or specific custom features were disclosed.Damen Yachting, a division within the Damen Shipyards Group, was created in 2019. The division combines the pedigree and heritage of Amels yachts with a growing portfolio of SeaXplorer yachts and Yacht Support vessels.Credits: Damen Yachting
June 27, 2025
Flexjet and Ferretti Group have introduced Riva Volare, a custom aircraft cabin design inspired by Riva motoryachts. The collaboration brings nautical styling to Flexjet's Gulfstream G650 jets and Sikorsky S-76 helicopters, targeting ultra-high-net-worth travelers.The Gulfstream G650 configuration accommodates 12-15 passengers for flights up to 16 hours, while two Sikorsky S-76 helicopters will operate in Florida and a new Milan-based service covering Italy and the French Riviera. Ferretti Group clients will receive preferential access to the helicopter operations.The design blends elements from Riva's 1960s Aquarama with contemporary Aquariva models, using artisanal materials and distinctive patterns. The interiors were developed through collaboration between both companies' design teams.Kenn Ricci and Alberto Galassi"I have long admired the iconic style of Riva, and seeing this brought to life in our aircraft is nothing short of exceptional," said Flexjet Chairman Kenn Ricci. Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi added: "Riva Volare is another splendid result of our collaboration with Flexjet, a brand with which we share the same passion for constantly raising quality standards."The design was unveiled June 26 at Milano Prime Linate Airport, with displays of the aircraft alongside a Riva Aquariva Special yacht. No pricing details were disclosed.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.Credits: Ferretti Group
June 27, 2025