1. Pelorus sold to Chinese billionaire
Pelorus, the 115-meter superyacht built in 2003 by Lurssen, has reportedly been sold to Chinese billionaire, Samuel Tak Lee according to several sources in the industry. Built for the Saudi owner of 72m Coral Island, Pelorus was the 11th largest yacht in the world at the time of her launch and became Lurssen's newest flagship. A few months after delivery, the owner decided however to sell his masterpiece and it was Russian billionaire, Roman Abramovich who came in with the highest bid to acquire the superyacht.
South China Morning Post linked Malaysian financier Jho Low to 91.5m yacht Equanimity, which has recently entered Hong Kong with an unclear purpose of stay. The yachting press often cited Jho Low as the owner of the vessel, but his lawyers have denied this. You may know Low from his alleged involvement in the 1MDB scandal. Some sources claim that he sold some artwork earlier this year, giving rise to speculation the yacht may be sold to raise funds for Low and his associates before it can be seized by the US authorities.
Monaco-based design studio The A group revealed the first renderings of 110m superyacht concept. The exterior design of Acuore is a harmonious combination of pure curves and taut lines resulting in a clean and sleek profile. The design signature of The A group, the “glass shark fin”, located on the top deck provides this area with exceptional brightness and adds an original touch to the overall profile.
Ester III, the 66-meter superyacht presented by Lurssen at last year's Monaco Yacht Show, is now listed for sale asking €79,500,000 through Fraser Yachts. Originally known as Project Green, Ester III was delivered to Russian banker, Georgy Bedzhamov in 2014 and became his newest flagship, according to Forbes. His previous yacht, the 51-meter Codecasa, Ester II was listed for sale shortly after asking €14,000,000.
Madrid-based Barracuda Yacht Design has presented 50m “pocket size” concept for an explorer yacht, which offers the ‘go-anywhere’ capability and sense of luxury available from a larger size vessel. With just 2.30m draft (compared to say 4.00m draft for an equivalent 80m), it’s not hard to imagine this full-of character yacht accessing the kind of secluded anchorage, or hard-to-reach viewing spot, that longer length, deeper-draft yachts would simply not be able to reach.
Motor yacht A, which is reportedly for sale at $300 million, has been spotted yesterday morning in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. M/Y A was built by Blohm+Voss in 2008. Designed by Philippe Starck, the vessel remains the most talked-about yacht on the seas. A is capable of accommodating 14 guests in 7 luxurious cabins, as well as a crew of 42. Performance wise she is powered by twin MAN engines of 6,035hp each and is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 23 knots and a cruising speed of 19 knots.
Timur Bozca, who has won Boat International Media and Oceanco’s Young Designer of the Year in 2015, presented yacht concept Isurus, which is the ultimate blend of refined performance and minimalist luxury. The Isurus is a 24m power yacht which is a striking beauty with intelligent elements. The dynamic abilities of the concept are made explicit through the muscular elegance of its bodywork. The lines are inspired by Shortfin Mako shark. The philosophy of Isurus’s design is everything for a reason, even unique asymmetrical front part. Every line, surface and detail of the design enhance the yacht’s performance and comfort.
Karianna, 54m Benetti superyacht, has been recently delivered. Previously known as Lady Michelle, the vessel was relaunched for a new owner. Karianna features exterior by the shipyard's in-house design team and interior by Francois Zuretti. She is able to accommodate 12 guests in 6 cabins including a master suite, three double cabins, a convertible guest room and one twin room, as well as a crew of 11. The superyacht's key features include a spa pool and sun deck relaxation area.
Spanish shipyard Astondoa Yachts has launched hull #4 in its Astondoa 80 GLX line. The new 24.92m yacht has been recently transported to Miami, where she will be handed over to the owner.
Benetti has launched hull number one of the new Mediterraneo 116 line for a US owner. Named Oli, the model was first presented at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2015. Measuring 33.5m, the yacht was designed by Giorgio Maria Cassetta. Special feature of Oli is her design of the superstructure that provides a sensation of luminosity and the flow of the sections is fluid with no interruptions in the lines of the pure design. Decks are lengthened towards the stern, moving the visual center of gravity amidships giving the her lines a balanced, dynamic and compact aspect.
At the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), the impressive 51-meter Feadship Double Haven will make its debut as the inaugural yacht under the newly established Feadship Resale division. This marks a significant milestone for both the storied vessel and this innovative resale service.Originally launched in 1993, Double Haven has been meticulously maintained and underwent a comprehensive refit in 2024, successfully completing its Lloyd’s class certification after three decades. The yacht features a spacious interior, maximized by full-beam design. Its distinctive aft deck ingeniously converts the tender bay into a water sports activity center, providing seamless access to the aft lounge on the main deck. Notably, the upper level boasts a luxurious, self-contained apartment complete with a balcony, bathroom, and private lounge, designed for the original owners who spent extended periods onboard. With a substantial fuel capacity of 120,000 liters – 30 percent more than is typical for yachts of its size – Double Haven is equipped for oceanic voyages of up to six months and is also set up for helicopter operations.Feadship Resale aims to enhance the brokerage community rather than replace it, providing in-depth insights and technical expertise about each Feadship yacht. By teaming up with prominent brokerage firms, Feadship guarantees clients receive maximum exposure and the best possible guidance. “Our mission is to ensure that the ownership experience remains rewarding for future generations, and Feadship Resale is a significant step toward preserving the value and heritage of each yacht,” states Arjen van Elk, Manager of Feadship Resale.The current Feadship Resale portfolio includes notable yachts such as Savannah (83.5m), Somnium (55m), Wedge Too (65m), and Monaco (37.95m), with some listings in collaboration with major brokerage firms.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
October 11, 2024
The 37.8-meter Moonen's yacht Lumière, which was delivered in June 2024, has made her debut in Sardinia during her inaugural summer in the Mediterranean. Captured in a picturesque anchorage by renowned yacht photographer Charl van Rooy, Lumière is seen glowing in a golden haze under the warm Italian sun. The yacht's Australian owners are enjoying their first season aboard this magnificent vessel.The owners expressed their appreciation, stating, “We commend Moonen and the extended team for delivering what I can only describe as an exceptional vessel. After her delivery to Mallorca from the Netherlands, we spent four weeks cruising with family and friends. Without fail, everyone who stepped onboard was amazed by the quality of finishes and the level of comfort. It exceeded all expectations. It was fantastic to see four Moonen Martinique yachts docked in Port Adriano – they truly are the finest yachts there.”Lumière is the fifth yacht inspired by Moonen’s esteemed Martinique design, known for its fast-displacement long-range capabilities, harmonious indoor-outdoor living, and unparalleled customization options. The owners were actively involved throughout the two-year construction process, requesting features like an extended sun deck with a large hot tub, a custom swim platform, and a uniquely designed interior in collaboration with Studio Indigo.The Captain remarked, “It's very comforting to know you are on a Moonen, where safety in quality makes the difference,” adding that the Moonen Martinique is “simply the best in her size range.”Constructed with a high-tensile steel hull and an aluminum superstructure, Lumière boasts a top speed of 17 knots and a cruising range of 4,000 nautical miles at 10 knots. With a spacious interior volume of 345 gross tons, she accommodates up to 12 guests in five cabins and can carry a crew of seven.Moonen Yachts is a yacht builder based in the Netherlands, and its first yacht was built in 1964 under the original yard name of De Ruiter. In 1981, the yard was renamed Moonen Shipyards. It’s launching its first vessel under new ownership: Alhena. In 2017 Moonen Shipyards changed into Moonen Yachts. With the help of strong vision, innovative technology and new designers, Moonen is once again becoming the market leader in 30m to 50m luxury yachts.Credits: Moonen Yachts
October 11, 2024
Progress is underway at the Marina di Carrara shipyard on the outfitting of the latest 53-meter motor yacht, a part of the Admiral 50 series. This marks the third vessel in the semi-custom Admiral line, continuing The Italian Sea Group's commitment to high-quality, sustainable yacht production.Construction of the hull and superstructure is advancing as scheduled, with system installations and optimization currently ongoing. Following this phase, the ship will enter the outfitting stage.The Italian Sea Group (TISG) is firmly establishing its presence in the semi-custom production market, maintaining a premium standard by exclusively utilizing aluminium in its builds.The Admiral 53m superyacht features a cutting-edge e-MOTION hybrid propulsion system. This includes two MAN DIESEL engines, four variable-speed generators, two permanent magnet electric motors, and an extensive lithium polymer battery pack. The innovative system provides several operational modes:The diesel main engines and electric alternators can power all onboard services while navigating with the generators off, allowing for battery recharging. Variable-speed generators adjust their output according to onboard load requirements, enhancing fuel efficiency.The battery pack can sustain operations for approximately eight hours without emissions, noise, or vibrations, enabling electric entry into ports while maintaining silence in docking operations.The battery system includes a "peak-shaving" function to manage short-term load spikes, preventing the need for additional generator activation, and ensuring uninterrupted operation during temporary shore power losses—common in many ports.Giovanni Costantino, Founder & CEO of The Italian Sea Group, expressed pride in this fully aluminium, hybrid superyacht, the first in the Admiral 50 line. "This project reflects our dedication to sustainability, a commitment we began in 2016 with the launch of the world's first hybrid-powered yacht in its size range, the 55-metre Admiral Quinta Essentia."The design of the Admiral 53m emphasizes an unobstructed visual experience, promoting a seamless interaction between outdoor and indoor spaces. The interiors, crafted from high-quality natural materials such as wood, stone, and textured metals, exude sophistication and warmth. The owner's suite on the upper deck offers panoramic views on three sides and features an exclusive private deck.The superyacht can host up to 12 guests in five spacious suites on the lower deck, in addition to the owner’s cabin located on the main deck.Scheduled for delivery at the end of 2025, the Admiral 53m continues to embody The Italian Sea Group's commitment to innovation and sustainability in yacht design.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
October 11, 2024
Alia Yachts is excited to reveal the sale of an impressive 43-meter bespoke yacht, which is currently under construction at their Antalya shipyard, with a scheduled delivery date in 2026.Designed by the renowned Vripack, this world cruiser boasts sleek and modern exterior lines, tailored for a family intending to embark on extensive journeys, potentially spending up to two months aboard. The project emphasizes energy efficiency, aiming to minimize the yacht’s carbon footprint through advanced naval engineering and cutting-edge onboard technology.One of the standout features of this yacht is the innovative folding bulwarks amidships, which uncover a tender area capable of accommodating an 8-metre beach lander. When the balconies are extended, this space transforms into a serene chill-out zone, strategically positioned in the yacht’s most stable area and separated from the dining room by a glass wall, conveniently adjacent to a gym.The bridge deck behind the wheelhouse is primarily dedicated to the master stateroom, which includes a spacious walk-in wardrobe and a private study. Additionally, the lower deck provides luxurious accommodations for eight guests, featuring four well-appointed suites.“It’s a pleasure to collaborate on a third project with Vripack—the creative minds behind the 55-meter Al Waab, the longest steel and aluminum yacht under 500GT globally, as well as our 60-meter flagship that is currently in development and slated for launch next year,” remarked Alia President Gökhan Çelik. “With this newest contract, we now have six custom projects at various stages of construction, from newly initiated builds to those nearing completion, showcasing that Alia Yachts continues to capture attention in the bespoke superyacht market.”Alia Yachts was founded in 2008 by Gokhan Çelik and Omer Koray. Located in the port of Antalya on the beautiful Turkish Riviera, Alia Yachts shipyard currently occupies approximately 8,000 m2, including three construction halls with their suites of specialist workshops and a dedicated interiors facility. With an additional 16,000 sq. m under development for 2019, Alia Yachts will rank among the top facilities in the region.Credits: Alia Yachts
October 10, 2024
Omikron Yachts to participate in the Olympic Yacht Show, taking place from October 10th to 13th, 2024. This event will unfold at the company's original location in Olympic Marine, serving as a vital platform for Omikron Yachts to reinforce its presence in the Greek market while introducing the award-winning OT–60 yacht, freshly celebrated at the Cannes Yachting Festival.The recent success of Omikron Yachts at the Cannes Yachting Festival has significantly elevated its global profile, with the OT-60 receiving the prestigious ‘Revelation of the Year’ accolade during the Yacht Trophies. In addition, the brand unveiled the design of its forthcoming model, the OT-80 – a “local explorer” featuring an enclosed flybridge, impressive transatlantic range, and advanced efficiency. This year, the OT-60 is also a finalist in the Best of Boats Awards under the ‘Best Big Boats’ category, further solidifying its status among industry leaders. These honors reflect the innovative design and eco-friendly ethos that define the brand, seamlessly merging the elegance of sailing yachts with the practicality of motor yachts and heralding a new era of sustainable cruising.The Olympic Yacht Show holds special significance for Omikron Yachts, as it will be hosted at Olympic Marine—the very birthplace of the OT-60. This "homecoming" event provides a unique opportunity for yachting aficionados to connect with the model firsthand and appreciate its remarkable journey on the international stage. Attendees will have the chance to admire the exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design, and distinctive features that have established the OT-60 as a transformative vessel in its class.Nikolas Dendrinos, Chairman of Olympic Marine, emphasized the importance of this event for Omikron Yachts, stating, “This year’s Olympic Yacht Show is especially meaningful for us. It not only represents our home turf but also brings to a close an extraordinary year of accolades for the OT-60, both domestically and internationally. Following our success in Cannes, we are eager to present the OT-60 in the waters where she was born.”Between 1969 and the late 90s, the Olympic Yachts shipyard manufactured over 2,000 sailing boats. Starting in 2019, the shipyard underwent a comprehensive renovation, revitalizing its capabilities to design and manufacture contemporary, high-quality boats.Credits: StudioReskos/Omikron Yachts
October 10, 2024