Updates On Heesen’s Project Sparta: Hull Has Been Turned

Ocean Independence recorded a 22% increase in retail charter income in 2024 compared to the previous year, with several yachts in its Central Agency Fleet surpassing typical seasonal booking targets. The most frequently booked yacht was Onyx, securing over ten weeks of charter, followed closely by E-Motion and Isotta.OnyxChief Commercial Officer Toby Maclaurin stated, “We are very pleased with the 2024 charter result. It was a key pillar to the company’s overall performance and we expect a similar, if not better, result in 2025. Chartering large yachts is in vogue and we are well prepared to meet the needs of a wide variety of customers with our portfolio. Of course, we can also reserve any other available charter yacht for our customers.”The list of top-performing charter yachts in 2024 was led by Onyx, a 25.48-meter Ferretti-built yacht from 2007. The vessel accommodates up to ten guests in four staterooms and offers a spacious aft deck, alfresco dining areas, and a hot tub. Charter rates start from EUR 40,000 per week.E-MotionE-Motion, a 40-metre Sunseeker, was also among the most-booked yachts. It offers accommodation for ten guests across five staterooms, including a full-beam master suite and convertible twin staterooms. Charter rates begin at EUR 170,000 per week.IsottaIsotta, a Ferretti 1000 motor yacht, was another high-performing vessel. It features an innovative aft beach area and a spacious flybridge. The yacht accommodates up to ten guests in five staterooms, with rates starting from EUR 114,000 per week.VertigeVertige, a 50-meter yacht built by Tankoa in 2017, also saw strong bookings. The aluminium-built vessel features minimalist deck spaces and a contemporary interior by Francesco Paszkowski, accommodating 12 guests in six staterooms. Charter rates start at EUR 270,000 per week.HuboHubo, an Azimut 85 delivered in 2015, remains a popular choice among charterers. The yacht accommodates eight guests in four staterooms, including a full-beam master suite. Rates start from EUR 40,000 per week.With demand for large yacht charters increasing, Ocean Independence is advising early bookings for the 2025 season. Helene Delstanche, Group Charter Fleet Manager, commented, “To secure your dream yacht, I suggest calling us rather sooner than later. 2025 bookings are already strong, and demand will only get higher as we get closer to springtime.”Credits: Ocean Independence

Sialia Yachts will showcase its fully electric 57-foot model, the Sialia 57 Deep Silence, at the Miami International Boat Show from February 12-16, 2025. The yacht will be presented in collaboration with Yacht Sales International, Sialia Yachts’ official dealer in North America, and will be located at One Herald Plaza, Dock B (3rd intersection).The Sialia 57 Deep Silence is equipped with a proprietary drivetrain featuring a 256 kWh battery, which can be upgraded to 1 MWh, and twin 400 kW electric motors. The yacht has a cruising speed of 16 knots and can exceed 25 knots at full speed. Its carbon fiber hull, optimized by Vripack, measures 16 feet in beam and is designed for stability and efficiency.The model accommodates up to 12 passengers and includes a climate-controlled cockpit, multiple lounge areas, a beach club with folding sides, and a garage for an 11-foot tender. It is also fitted with fast-charging capabilities to reduce downtime. A biofuel-compatible range extender is available to increase operational flexibility.Sialia Yachts emphasizes lifecycle considerations in its construction process, using carbon hulls that are more recyclable and durable than traditional GRP. The electric propulsion system is designed to require minimal maintenance, with electric motors needing only a grease change every 10 years. The batteries are rated for 30,000 cycles and come with a five-year guarantee, along with the rest of the propulsion system. The yacht’s technology is designed to be upgradable, allowing for extended operational longevity and reduced depreciation.Established in 2017, Sialia Yachts, owned by Silent Straits, is a company focused on sustainability and ocean-friendly innovation aiming to set new standards in yachting, with designs that inspire both enthusiasts and experts. The company offers the following models: 45, 59, and 80 Explorer. Sialia Yachts is based in Warsaw, Poland, with a team that includes members in the Netherlands and Italy.Credits: Blueiprod/Sialia Yachts

Arcon Yachts has confirmed the sale of two new-build Benetti Oasis 40M models, with both units scheduled for delivery in 2027. The 40.8-meter yachts will be constructed at Benetti’s facility in Livorno, Italy.The Oasis 40M series is one of Benetti’s most established lines, recognized for its Oasis Deck, which features a 90-square-meter open space with a flat platform, two unfolding gunwales that create overwater balconies, an infinity pool, and multiple seating areas. The design is intended to maximize outdoor living and provide an extended connection to the water.Accommodation is arranged across five cabins, including a main deck master suite. According to the broker, the interiors will emphasize contemporary design, though further details have yet to be disclosed. Exterior styling for the series is by British studio RWD, while the interiors are developed by Bonetti / Kozerski architecture.Powered by twin MAN engines, the standard performance specifications of the Oasis 40M include a maximum speed of 18 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots. The yacht has a beam of 8.5 meters and a draft of 2.1 meters.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

Italian yacht builder Pardo Yachts is charting a course for significant expansion into the Middle East, announcing an exclusive dealership agreement with Dubai-based Ocean 360 and a highly anticipated debut at the Dubai International Boat Show 2025. This strategic move underscores the brand's commitment to establishing a strong presence within one of the world's most discerning yachting markets.Pardo 43The partnership with Ocean 360, a leading provider of premium yacht services, will see Pardo Yachts showcase its renowned craftsmanship and innovative designs to the UAE and wider Gulf region. The Dubai International Boat Show, running from February 19th-23rd, 2025, will serve as the ideal platform to unveil the brand's flagship models, the Pardo 38 and Pardo 43.Pardo 38"The Middle East represents a strategically important market for Pardo Yachts' global growth," commented Marcello Veronesi, CEO of Cantiere del Pardo. "Partnering with the established and respected Ocean 360 provides us with the ideal platform to connect with discerning clients who appreciate the unparalleled quality and style synonymous with our yachts."Sebastian Dumitrescu, CEO of Ocean 360, added: "We are privileged to represent Pardo Yachts as their exclusive dealer in the UAE. Their commitment to innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship aligns seamlessly with our dedication to providing world-class yachting experiences. We are thrilled to introduce these stunning yachts to clients throughout the region."Marcello Veronesi, Sebastian Dumitrescu, Bogdan Borascu and Rok Babarovic (photo by Luca D'Ambrosio)Visitors to the Dubai International Boat Show can experience the epitome of Italian yachting excellence firsthand. The Pardo 38 and Pardo 43, both representing the pinnacle of Pardo's walkaround range, will be on display, showcasing the brand's intelligent use of space and unwavering commitment to bespoke luxury. These models epitomize the perfect harmony of aesthetic appeal and superior functionality, offering unparalleled comfort and performance.Cantiere del Pardo was founded in 1973 in Italy. Pardo Yachts, the brand of Cantiere del Pardo dedicated to powerboats, was born in 2016. The first model, the Pardo 43, was launched in 2017. Grand Soleil was founded in 1973 and is famous for its yachts, which ensure performance for regattas, autonomous long-distance navigation, as well as a high level of sustainable consciousness.Credits: Cantiere del Pardo

Riva participated in the 34th Palm Beach Cavallino Classic, an annual event dedicated to Ferrari enthusiasts, held from January 23 to 26 at The Breakers and Mar-a-Lago resorts in Palm Beach. This year’s Concours d’Elegance featured over 300 Ferrari collectors and their vehicles.The event began with a luncheon at the Ferretti Group Showroom in Fort Lauderdale, marking the start of the Tour d’Elegance, which concluded at The Breakers. A Riva Aquariva Super, the 33-foot runabout, was showcased at the venue, drawing significant attention. At Mar-a-Lago, attendees were presented with scale models of historic Riva yachts.During the prize-giving ceremony, Riva Classiche, a division dedicated to preserving the brand’s legacy in classic boats, was honored. The Elegance Award winner received an Aquarama Steering Wheel, a symbol of Riva’s iconic craftsmanship and Italian design heritage.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