Top 10 stories of the week

Arcadia Yachts has reinforced its commitment to sustainability by confirming its green factory credentials, a year after the company installed new solar panels across its production facilities. These additions have expanded the total surface area covered by solar panels to 1,200 square meters, resulting in the production of approximately 300,000 kWh of electricity, which has successfully met 70% of the shipyard's energy requirements for 2023.The installation of 612 new solar panels, manufactured by Sunerg Solar, has played a vital role in achieving this significant milestone. This shift not only contributes to clean energy production but also provides Arcadia Yachts with a competitive edge, reducing its consumption of traditional energy sources by over 40% in just one year. The remaining energy – which accounts for 30% of the shipyard’s total energy needs – has been fed back into the public grid, marking a substantial step towards green manufacturing practices.Looking ahead, Arcadia Yachts plans to enhance its sustainability efforts further by evaluating new technological solutions for upcoming models. This initiative aims to improve on-board comfort, especially during evening hours, while also increasing energy autonomy for owners. The company is focusing on integrating state-of-the-art photovoltaic panels and advanced power storage systems, along with innovative software to optimize on-board load management and energy consumption.Ugo PellegrinoUgo Pellegrino, sole director of Arcadia Yachts, highlighted the company's long-standing commitment to sustainability, stating, “Arcadia was born green! We started with our yachts in 2010, closely monitoring efficiencies and developments in our sector. The enhancements we are implementing are driven by the constant evolution of technology. Our smart innovator approach is embedded in our DNA, and we’re confident that in the coming years, we will be able to offer on-board energy management solutions leveraging Artificial Intelligence.”Pellegrino further expressed pride in the company's recent investments in sustainable technologies at the production facility. “After completing our green investment about a year ago, we set ambitious goals for significant environmental improvement, beginning with the yachts' production process rather than just their operational phase. We are thrilled with the results achieved and, backed by considerable economic returns, we aspire to once again lead the industry in terms of environmental sustainability.”With these advancements, Arcadia Yachts reaffirms its dedicated effort to reduce its environmental footprint while fostering a genuine and profound relationship with nature that aligns with the brand's ethos. The innovative steps taken position the shipyard as a pioneer in the pursuit of a greener, more sustainable future in the yachting industry.Arcadia Yachts is based in Naples, Italy. Since 2008, Arcadia Yachts has been building semi-custom luxury composite yachts and has succeeded in perfectly integrating artisanal craftsmanship, modern technologies, attention to detail and to the surrounding environment. The Arcadia Yachts fleet has included two ranges since September 2016. The shipyard’s first and most characterizing range is the A range, which includes four models (A85, A85s, A105 and A115). The Sherpa range has a new model, the 24m Sherpa XL, which was launched at the 2019 Cannes Yachting Festival. The new model, A96, debuted at 2023 Cannes Yachting Festival.Credits: Arcadia Yachts

Maxim Yachts has officially marked its entrance into the American market by signing an agreement with Legacy Marine, leading to the world premiere of the Max 44 R during the Miami Boat Show. This innovative daycruiser is powered by three 400-horsepower Mercury Verado V10 outboard engines, capable of exceeding speeds of 50 knots.The Max 44 R will be showcased at the Miami Boat Show, leveraging the newly established partnership with Legacy Marine, which will serve as Maxim's first dealer in the United States. Beginning in February 2025, Legacy Marine will distribute the entire line of Maxim daycruisers throughout Florida.Marc Forné, Sales Manager at Maxim Yachts, expressed confidence in the new model's suitability for the North American market. “The Max 44 R combines impressive performance with spacious, flexible areas designed for leisure and relaxation. Legacy Marine is an ideal partner to introduce our brand to a region essential for this type of vessel, and I take pride in this collaboration,” he stated.The 44-foot model continues the tradition of excellence from the Barcelona-based shipyard, brought to life through the collaboration of exterior designer Alex Cherigny and engineering firm Isonaval Studio. The centerpiece of the Max 44 R is its triple outboard engine setup, which boasts a total of 1,200 horsepower, enabling the yacht to achieve speeds over 50 knots. As an alternative, buyers can opt for three 450-horsepower Yamaha engines.Designed for versatility, the central deck area of the Max 44 R offers a flexible layout, featuring two foldable tables accommodating up to ten people, four sofas—one equipped with two portable refrigerators—and 16 cup holders for convenience. The helm station is equipped with a four-seat carbon fiber steering console, along with the pilot’s seat and two 16-inch Garmin displays alongside 11 analog indicators for optimal navigation.The boat features a carbon fiber hardtop that integrates a high-performance JL audio system, which consists of two speakers mounted on the hardtop and six strategically placed around the vessel. Sunbathing areas can be found at both the bow and stern, with the stern providing ample storage solutions.The galley of the Max 44 R is well-appointed with a stovetop, sink, and two sizable refrigerators, with the option to install up to four refrigerators and an ice maker for enhanced functionality. Below deck, the yacht includes two double cabins, one of which can easily transform into a relaxation area, catering to various onboard needs.As Maxim Yachts embarks on this new chapter in its journey, the partnership with Legacy Marine sets the stage for future growth in the U.S. market.Maxim Yachts has already created a buzz within the industry, making an impactful appearance at the Genoa Boat Show earlier this year. Renowned for its limited and customizable production, the shipyard prides itself on superior craftsmanship. The Neo 43 Comfort exemplifies a perfect blend of style, performance, and comfort, showcasing Maxim Yachts’ unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.Credit: Maxim Yachts

Italian designer Christian Grande is redefining the flybridge yacht experience with his new project, the Cranchi Sessantasette 67 Corsa. Unveiled at the autumn boat shows, this model stands out for its sporty aesthetic while still prioritizing the comfort that flybridge yachts are known for. The Sessantasette 67 Corsa challenges traditional notions of yacht design by embracing both dynamism and elegance, offering a new vision for on-board enjoyment.Grande's vision for the Sessantasette 67 Corsa was to create a yacht that evokes feelings of freedom and liveliness. The sporty character is highlighted through sharp lines in the superstructure and vibrant red accents that punctuate the overall design. Features like grey-finished teak harmonize with deck upholstery, creating an intriguing contrast between the vertical black leather surfaces and the lighter horizontal fabrics. Christian GrandeAs Grande notes, “The precisely placed red accents – on the details, logo, and beauty line of the hull – are more than decorative; they embody the yacht’s sporty spirit and the energy it radiates.”Color plays a pivotal role in this design. Grande explains, “I introduced paint finishes that reflect the different identities of the Sessantasette 67 Corsa. The medium metallic grey highlights both the bodywork and the yacht's advanced technology, while the matte black enhances the sleek profile, dissolving visually in key areas. This tactile black complements the leather elements beautifully, adding an engaging sensory experience.” The compact flybridge, devoid of a typical t-top, significantly contributes to the yacht’s streamlined appearance while providing ample open spaces. It features a sundeck, an inviting living area, and an ergonomically designed helm station, blending functionality and comfort seamlessly. “The Sessantasette 67 Corsa marks a revolution in onboard spaces,” Grande continues. “We prioritize outdoor areas over indoor ones, addressing the market’s demand for a closer connection to the sea and evading the typical ‘box-boat’ design.”At the core of the yacht is a lounge sheltered by the flybridge, defined by a seamless fusion of modernity and exoticism, which can be enjoyed year-round. This area extends fully towards the stern, allowing for an unobstructed view of the ocean. Large, electrically operated side windows not only frame the scenery but also create a captivating interplay of light and shadow through wooden slats, offering an exotic ambiance while promoting natural ventilation. This design evokes a tranquil setting reminiscent of Eastern resorts, offering a serene retreat from city life along with a panoramic view that extends beyond the flybridge shelter.The spacious platform serves as a natural extension of the yacht, equipped with a lift system to facilitate easy access to the sea and water toys, transforming the beach area into a personal oasis. The main deck bow features an open-air living space designed for intimate moments with the sea. A generously sized sundeck equipped with an adjustable backrest invites relaxation and enjoyment of the sea breeze. Furnished with a sofa facing the cruising direction and armchairs pointing toward the stern, this outdoor lounge encourages memorable experiences, whether it’s a romantic escape or a captivating sunset view.The interiors of the Sessantasette 67 Corsa offer three distinct décor options – Siracusa, Pisa, and Milano – representing a blend of warmth and modernity while highlighting the richness of Italian design. Grande thoughtfully curated various metals, marbles, woods, and fabrics to enhance the interior spaces, presenting refined tastes inspired by Italy's cultural heritage.Reflecting Christian Grande's design philosophy, the link between indoor and outdoor living spaces is amplified by an elegant glass door leading to the aft cockpit and strategic openings that allow light and breeze to flow effortlessly throughout the interiors. The main deck is a testament to sophisticated living, complete with a centrally located helm designed to respect the captain's presence while maintaining privacy and openness for guests.The lower deck features a full-beam master suite, serving as a sanctuary of comfort and style, enhanced by a wall-mounted bathroom with smoked glass that preserves privacy while enhancing spatial openness. As Grande aptly concludes, “Corsa represents freedom rather than just speed.” It captures spontaneity, pleasure, and the joy of the Mediterranean lifestyle – an embodiment of the new line that begins with this remarkable vessel. The Cranchi Sessantasette 67 Corsa invites owners to embrace the thrill of the sea while enjoying every moment on board in unparalleled comfort and style.A member of the same family for 150 years, Cranchi Yachts is an important piece of Italian boating history. The shipyard has a distinctive range of products from 26 to 80 feetCredits: Christian Grande

Antonini Navi celebrates a key milestone in the construction of its custom 31-meter explorer yacht, Evo 31. The shipyard's team successfully joined the upper deck superstructure and sun deck, a complex operation involving the precise handling of 16 tons of aluminum. This significant achievement brings the project closer to its planned completion in 2026.Designed by Hydro Tec, the Evo 31 balances robust construction with elegant aesthetics. Hot Lab's interior design features bright, open spaces and a warm, contemporary style, reflecting the owner's preference for organic shapes and high-quality materials.The next phase will see the integration of the upper decks with the hull, followed by the completion of outfitting.The Pertusola shipyard in the Gulf of La Spezia was bought by Walter Antonini in 1977. Since then, Antonini Navi has been a family-held leader in superyacht custom build and refitting.Credits: Antonini Navi

Ares Yachts has unveiled the interior design of its 50.55-meter superyacht, Spitfire, a project inspired by the iconic Supermarine Spitfire aircraft. Designed by Bannenberg & Rowell, the yacht's interior seamlessly blends historical inspiration with contemporary luxury. Construction, using advanced composites, is slated to begin this spring.The design evokes the Spitfire's spirit of innovation and performance. Simon Rowell of Bannenberg & Rowell describes the design ethos as "nimble, efficient, dynamic, industrial, and engineered," reflected in the yacht's sleek lines, metallic sheen, and earthy color palette. The interior features natural materials such as punched metal, leather, and tinted glass, with subtle nods to 1940s industrial design.Spitfire boasts a spacious layout, including a full-beam owner's suite with a 270-degree view freestanding bed and a private outdoor movie theatre. Guest accommodations include four additional cabins, all with en-suite bathrooms. Playfully named spaces, such as "The Boss's Quarters" and "The Pilot House," maintain the military theme, while the "Buddy Quarters" guest cabins reflect modern yachting's democratic approach.The yacht incorporates advanced technology, including a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system offering silent, emission-free operation for up to 11 hours with an optional battery upgrade. The innovative hull design, based on Ares Yachts' Ares 150 Bold patrol vessel, ensures high performance and stability, achieving a top speed of 20+ knots and a cruising range of 3,500 nautical miles.Ares Yachts Managing Director Piraye Sahinkaya Orhun expresses pride in the project, highlighting the shipyard's expertise in high-quality fiberglass construction and high-performance hull design. She emphasizes that the Spitfire caters to the modern, active yachting lifestyle, exemplified by its expansive beach club area. The yacht's interior offers flexibility for customization, allowing potential owners to personalize elements such as carpets and soft furnishings. Rowell concludes by expressing excitement for the project's completion and the opportunity to collaborate with the future owner.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