With two most important annual shows of the yachting industry in Europe and Americas already finished, the summer season of 2019 is smoothly going to its logical end. The builders have already presented some of the most stunning and ambitious yacht concepts, to work on over the next year. In the meantime, Yacht Harbour recalls the most interesting superyacht projects introduced during the Monaco Yacht Show 2019 and Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2019.
#1. Super Sport 65
Builder: Rossinavi
Length: 65.5m
Italian yacht builder Rossinavi has collaborated automotive design firm Pininfarinato to create a new superyacht concept Super Sport 65. The project was introduced during Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2019.
Inspired by high performance sports cars, Super Sport 65 represents a nod to Aurea, the first collaboration between Rossinavi and Pininfarinato introduced in 2017. Fully-aluminium Super Sport 65 has an overall length of 65.50 metres, a maximum beam of 11 metres and a shallow draft of 2.20 metres.
The layout of Super Sport 65 comprises wide-open spaces and includes six cabins to host at least twelve guests in addition to the seven cabins reserved to the captain and crew members. Furthermore, there are large spaces for outdoor entertainment featuring several lounge areas. They are all bespoke and arranged over various decks but include two Jacuzzis, one at each edge of the boat.
#2. Sunseeker 161
Builder: Sunseeker
Length: 49m
The first Sunseeker 161, the brand’s new flagship, has been recently confirmed sold. Delivery will take place in September 2022. Designed predominantly in-house, the new 161 Yacht, built in aluminium, will be entirely constructed by ICON Yachts in Harlingen, Holland.
The tri-deck model weighing in at <500 GT follows the iconic Sunseeker exterior lines. Her interior can be styled to each owner’s taste via ‘Bespoke’ service. The yacht comes with a plunge pool on the main deck, as well as the generous beach club.
The Sunseeker 161 Yacht sees ten guests accommodated in five cabins in the standard guest configuration, with scope for up to 12 guests dependent upon the chosen general arrangement.
#3. Xventure
Builder: Heesen
Length: 57m
Heesen teamed up with British studio Winch Design have presented new 57-metre ultimate explorer yacht, conceived both in style and of high efficiency thanks to FDHF hull design. The vessel will be available in three colours to start with: white, grey or copper-black.
Xventure will boast a cruising range of 5,000 miles (with even longer range as an optional extra) enabling the vessel to reach remote bays and creeks, and to remain on station longer. One of Xventure’s key design features, meanwhile, is the access that she provides to various transport modes for a variety of expeditions, such as a helicopter, large tender, jet skis or a submarine.
The vessel will come fitted with floor-to-ceiling glass windows afford views out to sea from the main deck guest suites and owner’s full-beam apartment, as well as the upper deck saloon. A glass-ceilinged winter garden on the observation deck provides expansive vistas from every angle with a swimming pool forward.
During the Monaco Yacht Show 2019, one of the world’s leaders in the yachting industry, the German yard Lürssen announced sale of its new custom-built project. Very little information has been revealed on the vessel so far. It is known however that the superyacht will feature exteriors by Venice-based studio Nuvolari Lenard with exquisite interior by Reymond Langton team.
Project JAG will be come equipped with at least one helipad and will be ready to take on-board up to 20 guests, which will be accommodated across 11 cabins and catered by the crew of 40.
The superyacht’s steel hull will measure 18.5-metres in the beam and have a draft of 4.8 metres. The amenities on-board will comprise a beauty salon, a SPA centre, a sauna, a swimming pool, two movie theatres (indoors and outdoors), a dance floor, a gym and an elevator.
#5. V-Line 65
Builder: Baglietto
Length: 65m
During the Monaco Yacht Show 2019, Italian shipyard Baglietto revealed the Francesco Paszkowski Design of its new 65-metre superyacht V-Line. In 2018, the company showed only a conceptual sketch that yacht inspired by the world's first superyacht (in the modern sense of the word), a 35.6-metre Adler, launched by Baglietto back in 1987.
The 65-metre boasts vertical bow and an innovative stern adding her a modern and unique style. The key element on-board shall become the pool on the upper deck with a transparent floor facing a large aquarium on the main deck. Natural light is a key added value on this design, including the large central lobby area where the light comes directly from the glass skylights of the flybridge.
The accommodations include a 6-cabin layout. Four of the cabins are located on the lower deck, which could be accessed through an elevator or a convenient side door in the lobby.
#6. ALFA 50
Builder: Rossinavi
Length: 50m
During the Monaco Yacht Show 2019, Italian yacht builder Rossinavi has presented the brand new 50-metre superyacht concept Alfa 50. The project has been designed by Venice-based design team led by Enrico Gobbi.
Inspired by iconic Italian luxury car brand Alfa Romeo, the model features sleek and sporty style. The unmistakable radiator grille of the Alfa Romeo cars, characterised by its signature front grille, is echoed in Alfa’s straight and rigorous bow, made of steel and captivatingly stretched forward.
A sports boat below 500 GT, Alfa boasts a number of large, bright windows for the guests to enjoy some incredible panoramic views from the main areas, such as the upper deck, the owner’s cabin, the main deck saloon and the cabins dedicated to the guests. Meanwhile, floor-to-ceiling windows are characteristic for many projects by Enrico Gobbi.
To be able to fit the considerable height of the owner’s cabin and the entire bow area, the bow has been put forward, and the great descent that goes aft and holds the upper deck and the whole stern line makes it particularly streamlined.
#7. Aqua
Designer: Sinot
Length: 112m
Amsterdam-based design studio Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design presented another groundbreaking concept at the Monaco Yacht Show 2019. With Aqua, a 112-metre fully powered by hydrogen and fuel cell technology superyacht concept, Sinot aims to fuse groundbreaking technology with cutting-edge design.
The fully operational 112-metre concept designed with a speed of 17 knots and a range of 3,750 nautical miles, optimises hull, energy and space efficiency while providing a maximal superyacht experience at the highest comfort level for discerning owners.
Aqua is configured with a five-deck set up, utilising forward interior space through the high sheer line which subtly descends from bow to aft. The yacht has been designed to provide those on-board with the closest possible proximity to the water.
The aft deck features a unique and innovative series of platforms cascading down towards the sea, while a large swim platform allows all Aqua passengers to enjoy the optimal experience of accessing the water at sea level.
#8. S702
Builder: Tankoa
Length: 70m
Italian yard Tankoa Yachts has introduced a new 70m project with bold and captivating lines and a vertical bow stem, all developed together with Francesco Paszkowski. The model would opt for three different superstructure profiles that can be integrated into the exterior styling, offering the owners the freedom to choose. Meanwhile, the exterior design will be defined by the arcs that connect and unite all the deck left in the stern, providing a sense of balance and continuity.
Numerous design details such as the stern fairleads and half-moon shapes, as well as the black chine in the bow and the black V-pattern on the hard top, reflect general Tankoa’s design philosophy. The vertical bow also recalls the 50-metre projects previously launched by the yard. Furthermore, the model features the vertical forward glazing contrasts with the gentle S-shaped bend of the arcs in the stern.
As to the interior layout, it features a 150-square-metre master suite with side terraces and a private gym, spread over the main deck and upper deck. It is directly connected to the foredeck and helipad via the upper deck and an internal private staircase. A skylight brings light into this passage that opens up into a large space comprising a panoramic lounge and dining area/meeting room.
#9. Nautilus
Builder: Turquoise Yachts
Length: 62m
Turkish builder Turquoise Yachts in collaboration with Miami-based studio DeBasto Design have unveiled a new 62-metre concept of an explorer yacht Project Nautilus. The yacht will bear “purposeful, masculine look”. Key features on-board will comprise a 13.4-metre tender deck at the front of the superstructure, able to house a 12-metre tender.
The owner’s suite is lays on the upper deck meanwhile provided with two exterior terraces. Additionally, the vessel offers guest accommodation for up to 10 across five cabins. What is more, a full-size cinema can be converted to a seventh guest cabin, as well.
The amenities aboard Project Nautilus include a forecastle deck that can double as a touch-and-go helipad, a swimming pool aft of the main deck, a lower deck beach club, gym, sauna and hot tub on the top deck.
Builder: Royal Huisman
Length: 88m / 70m
Dutch shipyard Royal Huisman partnered with ThirtyC design studio and Dykstra Naval Architects have introduced a 'double' superyacht concept during the Monaco Yacht Show 2019. The design concept complements the earlier revealed 88-metre sailing superyacht Lotus with a 70-metre companion vessel Lotus’ Shadow.
A 'next-generation' twin project from the British design studio ThirtyC, ‘Lotus’ bridges the gap between the experience of sailing and the adventure of the motor yacht lifestyle. Designed with the combination of dual-mast DynaRig sailing yacht and rugged Support Vessel, Lotus aims at unbridled freedom for both the journey and the destination.
The lightweight, high-tech 88-metre sailing yacht represents the primary vessel in this 'private armada', offering owners speed, precision sailing and the ability to cruise the world in comfort or compete in global superyacht regattas. This versatility is due to the world’s first twin-mast DynaRig structure, meaning Lotus has the potential to become one of the most technologically advanced and fastest sailing yacht of her kind on the water.
As to the 70-metre support vessel Lotus’ Shadow, she is designed to prepare for the sailing yacht’s arrival at any given destination. She will be packed to the brim with toys, tenders, cars, helicopters and other items that enhance the experience of travelling the globe.
Videoworks has announced the launch of an updated domotic control system for superyachts, combining advanced tactile control technology with the simplicity of a standard remote control. The new system addresses the growing demand for user-friendly interfaces tailored to the luxury onboard experience.The concept behind this system involves a return to intuitive design while incorporating modern technology. Many current domotic control systems on yachts feature complex interfaces, typically involving handheld tablets with intricate touchscreen options. Inspired by the success of smart home devices like Alexa and Google Home, Videoworks applies similar principles to the world of luxury yachts.Rather than relying on elaborate tablet devices, the new system focuses on simple, physical remote controls with tactile buttons for precise and reliable operation. This approach aims to make it easier for users to manage various functions, such as adjusting TV channels, controlling audio volume, and modifying lighting scenarios and room temperature. The primary objective is to enhance user convenience, especially in cabin environments where personal preferences are paramount without requiring navigation through unfamiliar interfaces or apps.Francesco Pierpaoli, Chief Information Officer, explained: "We developed this system based on feedback from our customers, who expressed a desire for simpler and more intuitive solutions. They find that using a physical remote with a few buttons is often more convenient than interacting with a tablet’s touchscreen, particularly in a cabin setting."Furthermore, the system includes a companion app that enables guests to use their smartphones to stream their preferred music and movies directly to the onboard television, providing a private and personalized entertainment experience without needing to master complex onboard systems.This evolution aligns with broader industry trends seen in sectors such as automotive and consumer electronics, where sophisticated technologies are integrated into luxury products to improve convenience and sophistication without introducing unnecessary complexity. By emphasizing end-user convenience, Videoworks' new system effectively balances high-tech functionality with everyday practicality.Credits: Videoworks
February 3, 2025
The Italian Sea Group announced today that their 47-meter Perini Navi Art Explorer sailing catamaran has been awarded the coveted "Multihull of the Year" title at the esteemed Boat International Design & Innovation Awards 2025. These awards recognize outstanding achievements in architecture, style, design, and technology within the yachting sector.The ceremony was held on Sunday, February 2nd, in Kitzbühel, Austria, during the Superyacht Design Festival, where industry professionals from around the globe gathered to honor exceptional contributions to the field."This distinguished accolade underscores our unwavering dedication to aesthetic and technical advancement," said Giovanni Costantino, Founder & CEO of The Italian Sea Group. "Art Explorer exemplifies our leadership in the large sailing yacht category, blending pioneering design with eco-friendly solutions – a groundbreaking concept never before realized."Designed by renowned architects Axel De Beaufort and Guillaume Verdier, Art Explorer stands as the world's largest aluminum sailing catamaran. Spanning 47 meters long with a remarkable 17.30-meter beam and soaring 55-meter carbon mast, this vessel represents a truly innovative project – a floating art gallery destined for a two-year global expedition, offering immersive cultural experiences while championing environmental responsibility.The catamaran's deckhouse features 65 square meters of solar panels, capable of producing up to 12 kW instantly and over 200 kW daily. Supported by a robust lithium battery bank, this system ensures zero-emissions energy supply for more than six hours, even under maximum onboard demand. Certified with a "green" class notation, Art Explorer also incorporates catalytic filters to minimize emissions and particulate matter from exhaust gases. All operations in ports and protected zones are conducted entirely in electric mode.Thanks to its state-of-the-art, fully automated sailing rig, controllable by just one individual, the catamaran effortlessly achieves speeds of 10 knots, even in gentle breezes.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: TISG
February 3, 2025
Benetti has announced the appointment of Matthew Walford as their new Area Manager for Australia and New Zealand, starting from February 1st, 2025. This strategic move reinforces Benetti’s presence in a dynamic and growing market.Walford brings over two decades of industry experience, specializing in new builds, brokerage, and refits. His extensive background includes serving as Business Development Manager at Austal | Oceanfast Australia, a prominent aluminum shipbuilding company. More recently, he led the Australian Azimut Yachts sales division as CEO of d'Albora Marine, making him a familiar face within the Azimut|Benetti Group.Daniela Petrozzi, Benetti's Sales Director, expressed her enthusiasm about the appointment: "We are thrilled to welcome Matthew Walford as our Area Manager for Australia and New Zealand. His deep understanding of the local market and vast industry knowledge will be invaluable assets as we continue to enhance our services and strengthen client relationships."Walford himself shared his excitement, stating, "It is an honor to take on this role, and I look forward to playing my part in driving further growth in this promising region."Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. Benetti designs, builds and sells composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. The fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom to meet all the needs of the market. Benetti belongs to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Benetti
February 3, 2025
The inaugural 2025 iQFOiL International Games concluded today in Lanzarote, with Johan Søe (DEN 37) and Emma Wilson (GBR 7) emerging as the champions in the men's and women's divisions respectively. Organized by Marina Rubicón, the event attracted 100 elite iQFOiL athletes from 26 countries, marking the beginning of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic cycle.The final day featured the Medal Series, which presented challenging conditions with gusty and shifty north winds ranging from 10 to 16 knots. This new format offered an engaging and dynamic conclusion to the games.Women's DivisionEmma Wilson, the bronze medalist from the 2024 Paris Olympics, maintained her dominant position throughout the week. Entering the Grand Final as the leader of the Opening Series, she won both races, securing her championship title. The Women's Quarter-Final included Islay Watson (GBR 20), Sara Wenneke (NED 33), Theresa Steinlein (GER 799), and Palma Čargo (CRO 9), with Watson and Čargo advancing to the Semi-Final. There, they joined Marta Maggetti (ITA 157) and Anastasia Valkevich (POL 6), with Watson and Valkevich progressing to the Grand Final alongside Wilson and Shahar Tibi (ISR 3). Wilson's consistent performance led her to victory, with Tibi finishing second, Watson third, Valkevich fourth, and Maggetti fifth.Men's DivisionIn the men's division, Johan Søe demonstrated remarkable resilience. Despite leading the Opening Series, he faced stiff competition and recovered from an early crash to ultimately win the Grand Final. The Men's Quarter-Final saw Manolo Modena (ITA 27), Kiran Badloe (NED 9), Rytis Jasiunas (LTU 7), and Adrien Mestre (FRA 4) compete for Semi-Final spots, with Modena and Badloe advancing. They later joined Nicolas Goyard (FRA 465) and Nacho Baltasar (ESP 4) in the Semi-Final, with Modena and Badloe making it to the Grand Final along with Søe and Nicolò Renna (ITA 150). Although Søe crashed during the first downwind, he regained his composure to take the lead in the second race, winning the Grand Final. Modena placed second in the final race, followed by Renna in third and Badloe in fourth.Final RankingsWomen's Top 5: Emma Wilson (GBR 7) Shahar Tibi (ISR 3) Islay Watson (GBR 20) Anastasia Valkevich (POL 6) Marta Maggetti (ITA 157)Men's Top 5: Johan Søe (DEN 37) Nicolò Renna (ITA 150) Manolo Modena (ITA 27) Kiran Badloe (NED 9) Nicolas Goyard (FRA 465) Nacho Baltasar (ESP 4)Next EventsFollowing this successful event, athletes will prepare for upcoming competitions, including the #2 iQFOiL International Games in Cádiz from March 8 to 14 and the Trofeo Princesa Sofía in Palma from March 28 to April 5. The new sails used in these games were well-received, and the new Medal Series format proved effective in highlighting consistent performances.Marina Rubicón and the organizing team received praise for executing a flawless event, further establishing Lanzarote as a premier location for Olympic-class sailing.Credits: iQFOiL International Games
February 3, 2025
The insolvent shipyards owned by Lars Windhorst in Schleswig-Holstein are set to be taken over by new investors. The appointed administrators have presented two buyers, while Windhorst has made a last-minute offer in an attempt to regain control.According to preliminary insolvency administrator Christoph Morgen, the Heinrich Rönner Group from Bremerhaven will acquire the Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft (FSG). Work at the shipyard is expected to resume shortly, focusing on completing a ferry for the Australian shipping company SeaRoad. The vessel has been docked for an extended period. The Nobiskrug shipyard in Rendsburg, meanwhile, will be taken over by the Lürssen Group from Bremen, as confirmed by preliminary insolvency administrator Hendrik Gittermann.Both shipyards are currently owned by Windhorst’s Tennor Group. Windhorst entered the Flensburg shipyard in 2019 and later acquired the Rendsburg facility. Over time, both shipyards reportedly struggled with financial difficulties, leading to complaints from employees about a lack of orders and materials. Insolvency proceedings were initiated after social security providers filed claims over unpaid contributions. The administrators also discovered over 150 official notices in the offices, including enforcement orders and court documents.Despite the planned takeovers, Windhorst has not abandoned efforts to retain the shipyards.Credits: Yacht Harbour archive
January 31, 2025