Van der Valk Shipyard in the Netherlands has delivered the fourth yacht in its renowned Raised Pilothouse semi-custom range. The 26-metre Nicostasia was built for owners who had already enjoyed the experience of owning a Van der Valk motoryacht and now wanted to go larger and all-new. Featuring exterior and interior design from Guido de Groot and the highest standard of Dutch construction and engineering, Nicostasia is an impressive addition to the growing Van der Valk fleet.
The cooperation and coordination between the yard and the owners’ representatives during the design and construction of Nicostasia was seamless. As Van der Valk has ample experience with owners from their country, they were able to conduct all communications in their native language.
The overall design brief for Nicostasia was to create a cool-looking, smart-working family boat, thoroughly adapted to the clients’ wishes. The interior and exterior were both designed in partnership with Guido de Groot. Overall, the interior is typified by bright colours, with whitewashed oak as the principal material – the family had seen this colour scheme on several other Van der Valks and opted to reproduce the palette in an even lighter version. “The interior is quite elegant and minimalistic, yet clearly very functional and robust,” says Guido de Groot. “Nicostasia is a real family boat – the owners are delighted with her and spend lots of time on board.”
The lower deck hosts the main accommodations: the owner’s suite, which takes up the full 6.25-metre beam, two guest cabins, one to starboard and one to port, and a VIP cabin forward. All accommodations include ensuite bathrooms, with the owner’s suite being especially large and also featuring a walk-in wardrobe. The guest cabins are designed specifically for the children in the family, including in terms of décor choices, underlining the fact that Nicostasia is more a family boat than a typical yacht which is intended for charter.
The pièce de résistance of bespoke design on Nicostasia is the compact but state-of-the-art open galley integrated in the saloon. “Normally, of course, the saloon contains the dining space while the galley is located elsewhere in the boat,” says Guido de Groot. “But this family loves to socialise with guests while cooking, so they requested this one-of-a-kind feature.
“They also wanted to have as much natural light as possible in that area. The design allows as much sunlight as possible to reach this space from the oversized windows in the wheelhouse above by making the ceiling in the galley area spectacularly high. Another ingenious element is the extractor hood above the stove that doubles as a lighting fixture. Each of these components was quite complex to implement given that the passage between the sunbathing areas on the flybridge above is directly above the cooking island and the extractors. Only an expert yard like Van der Valk could have accomplished this so well.”
Nicostasia is Van der Valk’s fourth Raised Pilothouse, and while the boats in the series are characterised by tried-and-true exterior lines, there are a wide range of choices in terms of layout and interior architecture options.
“This has a lot to do with the optimised interior space of this particular "Raised Pilothouse" superstructure shape,” explains Yoeri Bijker, Marketing manager at Van der Valk Shipyard. “Some clients place the crew area on the main deck, while others prefer to have an on deck owners’ cabin there instead. The Raised Pilothouse concept offers a great deal of flexibility and its classic flare generates a very elegant appearance. It also gives the vessel a timeless look, ideal for owners who are less enthusiastic about today’s typical straight bows without a lot of flare.”
Nicostasia’s layout includes a graceful elevated wheelhouse position and a wide-open main deck area forward. The flybridge deck boasts an outdoor helm station as well as sun loungers, a wet bar with fridge, wine cabinet and ice maker to port, and a U-shaped lounge dinette settee to starboard. This is also where the 4.45-metre tender and the waverunner are located.
The yacht also has some unique exterior components: for instance, the main deck and the pilothouse are connected with chic floating steel stairs in polished stainless steel which combine with the split-level wheelhouse arrangement to provide a natural flow. She is also characterised by an unusual and lovely grey metallic hull colour, with stylish dark blackout areas and striping.
Nicostasia has a conventional shaft propulsion system, with twin MTU 10V 2000 M93 engines of 1502 hp each which provide a maximum speed of some 25 knots. She is equipped with a 30kW Electric 96V DC 3 phase bow- and stern thruster, and two 26kW Northern Lights PX332K2 auxiliary engines (generators). An electric Seakeeper 26 gyroscopic stabilising system optimises comfort for passengers and crew.
Currently berthed in Montenegro, Nicostasia will cruise the Adriatic Sea for the time being – possibly from a permanent base in Croatia. Eventually her owners will criss-cross the Mediterranean in a superyacht built entirely to their specifications.
The RMK120 Seven Seas has recently made waves in the yachting world, marking the sixth collaboration between Dutch design studio Vripack and the Turkish shipyard RMK Marine. This vessel is not just another yacht; it represents a pocket-sized explorer crafted with the essence of grand adventure in mind. Designed specifically for seasoned yachtsmen who dream of world cruising, this 36.8-meter super-efficient steel-hulled yacht is a perfect blend of expedition cruising and family-oriented design.From the outset, the exterior of the RMK120 Seven Seas captivates with its robust trawler-style lines, a hallmark of Vripack’s design philosophy. However, a deeper look reveals a thoughtful focus on enhancing the owner's experience, emphasizing spaces tailored for guest enjoyment while aboard. Each area is meticulously designed to foster connection and comfort, ensuring that time spent on the yacht is nothing short of extraordinary.One standout feature is the aft-facing seating on the three-tiered mezzanine. This unique arrangement is ideally situated between the expansive 9-meter-wide swim platform and the main dining area on the deck, providing an inviting social space with spectacular sea views. “The mezzanine seating offers a refreshing alternative to conventional forward-facing layouts," notes Bart M. Bouwhuis, co-creative director at Vripack. "It creates a layered deck that encourages interaction, facilitates easy access to the lazarette, and fosters a vibrant connection with the surrounding waters."Moving forward, the guest area splits beautifully, with sun loungers, dining spaces, and seating directly positioned in front of the bridge. Meanwhile, a technical workspace at the bow adds functional balance. The private top deck features partially shaded lounging options, a hot tub, a bar, sunpads, and ample dining arrangements, balanced by a substantial 55-square-meter tender deck to accommodate a 7.5-ton crane for effortless water toy launches.Cüneyt Okcu, Yacht Division Director at RMK Marine, describes the RMK120 Seven Seas as embodying "the power of elegance" and "the elegance of power." He emphasizes that like previous Vripack designs, this yacht instills a sense of coziness and safety, allowing owners to truly embrace the spirit of the sea.Seven Seas offering low operational costs and improved accessibility to remote destinations, all while ensuring a design centered on life aboard. The vessel will be showcased at the Monaco Yacht Show.Vripack is a yacht-design studio with a portfolio that represents over 7400 designs, made strong through its extensive naval architecture and engineering experience. From the moment they opened their doors in 1961, Vripack studio’s approach to design has been governed by the playful interaction between form and function.Credits: Vripack
September 20, 2024
The all-new Patrone 45', an impressive 14-meter Italian yacht designed by architect Tommaso Spadolini, has made waves following its world debut at the 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival and is now turning heads at the Genoa Boat Show. Developed in collaboration with the Moreno family, owners of the Patrone Moreno shipyard, this unique open cruiser showcases remarkable marine capabilities while embodying the classic style of the Ligurian gozzo."The Patrone 45' emerged from the success of the Patrone 100, responding to requests from owners who sought to capture the same elegance of our beloved 10-meter model on a larger scale,” Spadolini explained. He added that the yacht was designed for those who desire an open-air experience without compromising interior comfort. With light and space as guiding principles, expansive windows provide seamless views of the sea.The Patrone 45’ continues to elevate interest among boating enthusiasts at the Genoa Boat Show at pier P (berth P101 – stand BP01). It harmonizes the brand’s century-old craftsmanship with modern flair, focusing on onboard conviviality, a vision embraced by Gianarnaldo and Benedetta Moreno, representing the shipyard’s fifth generation. This yacht is reinterpreting the classic charm of the Ligurian gozzo in a contemporary context.With configurations emphasizing spaciousness, the Patrone 45’ features three cockpit layouts: a C lounge, a Y sofa, and an LL chaise-longue, accommodating various social settings. The first showcased unit provides a roomy C-shaped seating area at the aft, capable of seating eight, with a clever hydraulic lift system for easy engine access.Inside, choices abound with six customizable layouts. Whether designed for a family, friends, or couples, each layout ensures ample comfort, including one fixed owner's cabin with an ensuite bathroom. Sustainable materials, including eco-teak decking and low-impact finishes, embody the shipyard’s commitment to environmental respect, enhancing this vessel’s appeal as both elegant and eco-conscious.Credits: Alexander Panzeri/Tommaso Spadolini
September 20, 2024
Feadship has officially launched Feadship Resale, a new initiative aimed at assisting yacht owners in reselling their vessels. Though owners have traditionally turned to the yards for guidance, with requests being referred to brokerages, the yard has now decided to take a more proactive role. SavannahArjen van Elk, Feadship Resale Manager, explains, “At Feadship, our relationship with yachts extends well beyond their delivery. Our extensive knowledge of these vessels, paired with our lifelong dedication to our owners, uniquely positions us to provide a level of service unmatched in the industry. We offer significant value in the resale process, leveraging our access to archival information, skilled craftsmen, and the engineers behind each yacht.”MonacoFeadship Resale is focused on ensuring that clients maintain their investment over the long term. The yard's comprehensive expertise regarding every detail of the yachts they have constructed allows them to provide bespoke advice that reflects the yacht’s individual history and specifications. Feadship aims to collaborate closely with the brokerage community, safeguarding the interests of clients during every transaction to create a smooth and worry-free ownership experience.Double HeavenThis initiative reinforces Feadship’s commitment to building lasting relationships with clients and the yachts they have created. It transcends mere transactions, aiming to uphold the legacy of each Feadship, ensuring that they continue delivering value and joy to their owners for many years. Feadship Resale embodies this dedication by offering customized solutions with long-term advantages.Currently, Feadship has listed five unique yachts for resale:- Monaco (37.95m, 1981)- Somnium (55.20m, 2021)- Savannah (83.50m, 2015)- Double Haven (51.00m, 1993)- Wedge Too (65.00m, 2003)During the Monaco Yacht Show, prospective buyers can request private viewings of Somnium, Monaco, and Wedge Too, with Arjen van Elk available for appointments.Wedge TooFeadship Resale is designed to enhance the brokerage community rather than replace it, providing brokers with in-depth knowledge that empowers them to offer clients informed guidance. The yard’s collaboration with top brokerage firms ensures that the interests of their clients are prioritized throughout the entire process.SomniumThis initiative aligns with the Feadship Refit & Services department launched in 2018, aimed at preserving the prestigious lineage of the Feadship fleet while addressing the growing demand for Feadship expertise. Just as Refit & Services became a key component of Feadship’s ecosystem, Feadship Resale enhances the support available to yacht owners throughout their ownership journey. Feadship is dedicated to ensuring that the experience remains fulfilling for future generations, reinforcing the enduring success and value of the Feadship brand.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
September 20, 2024
Following its triumphant showcase at the Cannes boat shows, the Ferretti Group is heading to the Genoa International Boat Show, marking its 64th edition, with a fleet of seven vessels, including two premieres: the Ferretti Yachts INFYNITO 80 and the Pershing GTX80.The fleet exemplifies the creativity and innovative spirit of Ferretti’s renowned brands, which include Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Custom Line, and Wally. Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to experience the Italian debuts of the INFYNITO 80 and the GTX80.INFYNITO 80The Ferretti Yachts INFYNITO 80 is tailored for sea-loving owners who prioritize environmental sustainability, featuring the Group’s F.S.E.A. Technology (Ferretti Sustainable Enhanced Architecture). This model enhances the onboard experience with expansive covered outdoor spaces that create a seamless transition between interior and exterior living.Pershing GTX80The Pershing GTX80 combines comfort and excitement with intelligently designed spaces and boasts a spacious 23-square-meter sundeck, featuring the innovative SeaScape design. This sporty yacht harmonizes elegance, space, and the exhilarating essence of the Pershing brand.In addition to the premier models, visitors will also be able to admire a selection of other remarkable vessels, including the Ferretti Yachts 720, Custom Line 106’, Riva 56’ Rivale HT, Riva 88’ Folgore, and wallywhy100.Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi expressed his enthusiasm: “Our exquisite boats are the result of substantial investments, creative visions, and a collaborative spirit synonymous with the Ferretti Group. We have an array of talents committed to continuous improvement. By the end of 2026, we anticipate launching 25 new models. The fleet we’re bringing to Genoa will illuminate the future of yachting, showcasing innovation and sustainability, particularly with the remarkable INFYNITO 80. With very positive economic results this year, we are poised for continued growth and to create beauty.”As always, the Group's presence at the event will be enhanced by luxury partners, featuring a range of exciting programs. Notable partners include automotive leader Range Rover, private aviation expert Flexjet, and Seabob, along with Torello, RODA for you, Frette, Venini, Atelier Rebul, and Unopiù for upscale decor. Italian partners like Dolce & Gabbana for bespoke staff uniforms, Lavazza with its premium coffee selections, and La Scolca for fine wines and champagnes will also contribute to the event, alongside Bang & Olufsen, specializing in audio products and home entertainment.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.Credit: Ferretti Group
September 19, 2024
Lusben, a division of the Azimut|Benetti Group focused on refit and repair projects, is delighted to announce the appointment of Eng. Ferdinando Pilli as General Manager, effective September 2024.Throughout his extensive career, Pilli has held senior positions in prominent shipyards, acquiring significant expertise in both new building and refitting processes. He joined the Azimut|Benetti Group in 2018 and has served as the Custom Operations Director within the Benetti division most recently.Ferdinando PilliIn his new role at Lusben, Pilli will drive the division's growth and expansion, building on the major investment plan initiated in 2023 aimed at solidifying Lusben’s status as a leading authority in the refit and repair of motor and sailing yachts in the Mediterranean.“I am thrilled to take on this challenge and join such an esteemed company during this pivotal phase of growth, where innovation and efficiency will be central to our team’s efforts,” stated Ferdinando Pilli, the new General Manager of Lusben.Marco Valle, CEO of the Azimut|Benetti Group, expressed confidence in Pilli's appointment, stating, “We are excited to hand this responsibility to Ferdinando Pilli. His extensive expertise within the Group and experience from various shipyards will undoubtedly enhance Lusben’s offerings and strengthen our position as a global leader in the refit sector.”Lusben was founded in 1958 in Viareggio. The shipyard has over 60 years of experience in the yacht refit sector. Credits: Lusben
September 19, 2024