U-Boat Worx's submarines aboard Viking and Seabourn expedition vessels are transforming marine exploration, enabling unprecedented discoveries and advancements in oceanography. Powered by state-of-the-art technology, these submersibles facilitate detailed observations and data collection in previously unreachable marine habitats.Recent highlights include the rare documentation of the giant phantom jellyfish (Stygiomedusa gigantea) in Antarctica, marking the first publication of such findings by a cruise line.
Other achievements encompass exploratory dives in the Great Lakes, leading to extensive surveys of historic shipwrecks. Most notably, Seabourn Pursuit located the long-lost Titania, a German supply vessel, which had remained undiscovered for over a century.Equipped with sophisticated instruments capable of diving to 300-meter depths, these submarines enable researchers to assess marine biodiversity, evaluate climate change effects, and monitor delicate ecosystems. Their presence aboard Viking and Seabourn ships underscores the synergy between luxury travel and scientific progress, setting a precedent for environmentally conscious exploration.
Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, emphasized, "Every voyage provides opportunities for scientific discovery… Our expedition vessels and scientists have already contributed to research that might not have been possible otherwise." Similarly, Robin West, VP and GM of Expeditions at Seabourn, highlighted the company's dedication to pioneering exploration: "These experiences are a testament to the spirit of expedition... taking guests to places where no other human has ever ventured."
By integrating luxury with scientific rigor, Viking and Seabourn exemplify how maritime exploration can yield valuable insights, enhancing global awareness of marine ecosystems and advancing efforts toward sustainable conservation.
Founded in 2005, U-Boat Worx leads the global market in designing and manufacturing submersibles for private, research, and cruise industries. With over 60 operational units worldwide, the company prioritizes safety, performance, and comfort, continuously innovating underwater exploration technologies.
Credits: U-Boat Worx
A 2012 Zeelander Z44 previously owned by Victoria's Secret model Adriana Lima has undergone an extensive refit at the Dutch shipyard. The 13.52-meter yacht now features a full repaint in its original Rolls-Royce titanium color, rebuilt Volvo Penta IPS 600 engines, and refreshed upholstery. The vessel is currently available for immediate delivery through Zeelander Yachts.The refit process included stripping the hull to bare laminate before applying a new Awlgrip paint system with three base layers and clear coat. While the cherry wood interior and original cockpit table required only cleaning, exterior upholstery was replaced with diamond-stitched Silvertex fabric in ice white. The Volvo Penta IPS pods were fully overhauled despite having only 500 operating hours, restoring them to factory-new condition with a renewed warranty."Although we often talk about the extraordinary detailing on new Zeelander yachts, it’s less commonly known that we pour the same degree of attention and craftsmanship into our existing fleet as well," said Floris Koopmans, Zeelander's business development manager. "The refit of our Z44 from 2012 is a testament to both the longevity of our timeless designs and the skill of our team when it comes to revitalising a much-loved yacht."The Z44 model has been discontinued, with Zeelander's current lineup consisting of four models ranging from 15 to 24 meters. The refurbished yacht represents one of the last opportunities to acquire this out-of-production design in like-new condition.Zeelander Yachts was founded in 2002 in the Netherlands by Sietse Koopmans. The first model was unveiled to the public in 2008. The launch model Z44 received positive reviews at the Monaco Yacht Show and drew enormous crowds, despite being at an event dominated by much larger yachts. Within three years, the Z44 had been successfully introduced to the US as well as Europe, and it was an obvious direction to add a larger model to the fleet. The first Z55 was delivered in November 2015, and the flagship Z72 was launched in March 2019.Credit: Zeelander Yachts
May 29, 2025
Benetti has launched the 50-meter custom superyacht FB615, a fully personalized vessel from its B.Now 50M series featuring the Oasis Deck® design. The yacht was developed in collaboration with British design studio RWD, marking their first complete exterior and interior design partnership for the B.Now line.FB615 was designed around the owner’s specific lifestyle and preferences, with Burgess acting as the client’s representative. "Together with RWD, whose deep understanding of the B.Now philosophy made them the ideal partner for this project, including the interior design, we crafted a yacht that not only meets but exceeds the Owner’s expectations, the result of close teamwork carried out in collaboration with Burgess as the client’s representative," said Daniela Petrozzi, Benetti Sales Director.Barry Gray, Technical Representative at Burgess, added: "The enormous success of the B.Now series reflects how this RWD design exceptionally delivers on the desires and needs of today’s modern yacht buyer. It has been a pleasure to work with our discerning client and the inimitable Italian powerhouse Benetti."The interior design process began two years ago, with RWD creating adaptable spaces that balance functionality and personal expression. The main deck integrates seamlessly with the Oasis Deck®, pool, and fold-down terraces, enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor areas.Amy Whitaker, lead designer at RWD, stated: "Working on the interiors of FB615 has been an exciting journey. The synergy we created with the clients and Benetti enabled us to develop a unique interior that is a canvas designed to evolve over time with artwork and decorative objet."FB615 is scheduled for delivery this summer. The project reinforces Benetti’s position in the custom superyacht market, emphasizing tailored design for owners seeking fully personalized vessels.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
May 28, 2025
Tankoa Yachts has announced the technical launch of the second hull in its T55 Sportiva series, Loewe, just over a month after the debut of the first unit. The yacht was sold to an experienced European owner and reflects the shipyard’s ongoing production progress.Designed by Luca Dini Design & Architecture, Loewe was developed in collaboration with the owner’s team, resulting in a fully customized vessel. The yacht features a six-cabin layout, one more than the first T55 Sportiva, increasing guest capacity while maintaining comfort. An internal elevator provides access across all decks.Key amenities include an expanded beach club with a "sealine window," now equipped with a sauna and hammam. Additional features consist of a swim platform with a pool, a private hot tub in the owner’s suite, and a full-beam hot tub on the sundeck.Loewe will operate in the Mediterranean this season, offering charter guests a combination of luxury and functionality. The launch reinforces Tankoa Yachts' position in the competitive superyacht market.Tankoa was founded in 2007 and began production in 2008. A true “boutique shipyard”, focused on building semi-custom and custom constructions 45-meter and up.Credits: Tankoa
May 28, 2025
Technohull will exhibit two of its latest models – the Alpha 40 and GTX – at the 2025 Venice Boat Show, taking place from May 29 to June 2. The event marks another step in the brand’s expansion across Southern Europe, with the presentation supported by its Italian representative, Campello Marine.Alpha 40The Alpha 40, finished in white and equipped with twin Mercury 400 hp outboards, will be displayed alongside the GTX, which features a grey exterior and twin Mercury 400R engines. Both models are designed for speed and premium day boating experiences.“We’re proud to be part of the Venice Boat Show with two of our most versatile and well-received models,” said Gerasimos Petratos, CEO of Technohull. “This is an important step in our continued growth in the Mediterranean, and we’re excited to connect with more owners and enthusiasts who value performance, comfort, and cutting-edge design.”Alpha 40The Alpha 40, launched in October 2024, measures 12.1 meters and combines a carbon-fiber hardtop with an ergonomic deck layout. Its Dynastream Deep-V hull ensures stable cruising at speeds exceeding 45 mph, with a top speed of over 75 mph. Fuel efficiency ranges between 2.6 and 3.3 liters per mile. The cabin includes a full-beam double berth, a separate head, and a shower with 1.85-meter clearance.The GTX, meanwhile, emphasizes power and agility, catering to buyers seeking uncompromising performance. Both models reflect Technohull’s focus on advanced hull technology and Mediterranean-inspired design.GTXThe Venice Boat Show will provide an opportunity for visitors to inspect the boats firsthand, with Technohull aiming to strengthen its presence in the luxury day-boating market.Greece company Technohull launched its first hull in 2004. The most popular Technohull models of today include: Omega 45, 38 Grand Sport, 909, Explorer 40 and SeaDNA999. Credits: Technohull
May 28, 2025
Van der Valk has launched its 35-meter aluminum superyacht Lalabe, previously known as Project Samba, ahead of its scheduled delivery this summer. The vessel entered the water in late May 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of the Cannes Film Festival, and will undergo final outfitting and sea trials before its official debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September.Lalabe represents a fully custom design based on the naval architecture of the award-winning Lady Lene, adapted with a fast-displacement hull capable of 17 knots. The exterior and interior were developed by designer Guido de Groot in collaboration with the owners, who were closely involved throughout the build process. The yacht emphasizes indoor-outdoor living, featuring sliding doors that open the bridge deck saloon on three sides and an aft cockpit designed as a beach club with a sauna, steam room, and fold-down swim platform."The yacht exemplifies Van der Valk's approach – combining Dutch craftsmanship with fully bespoke design," said Yoeri Bijker, Van der Valk's sales director. "This isn't a semi-custom project; every detail was tailored to the owners' requirements."The Cannes Yachting Festival, held in September, will mark Lalabe's first public appearance. The event, which includes in-water displays and exhibitions across Cannes' ports, serves as a key platform for yacht builders to showcase new models. Van der Valk's participation underscores the company's focus on the custom superyacht market, with Lalabe positioned as a highlight of the show.The yacht's layout prioritizes multi-generational family use, incorporating residential-style amenities such as an expansive laundry facility and flexible deck spaces. Its design follows the success of previous Van der Valk models, reinforcing the brand's reputation for high-performance, custom-built aluminum yachts.The Cannes Yachting Festival attracts a global audience of yacht owners, brokers, and industry professionals, making it an ideal venue for Lalabe's premiere. The event runs from September 10-15, 2025, in Cannes, France.Van der Valk is a family-run company building comfortable, innovative and efficient (semi) custom motor yachts from 18m to 45m. From its humble roots in the 1960s, Van der Valk today has a global fleet of over 1000 motor yachts. Credits: Van der Valk
May 27, 2025