Willie Urbieta, the owner of US-based Sirena Yachts, is set to achieve a remarkable feat as he becomes the first ever owner of two 21.4-meter Sirena 68 vessels.
Having previously purchased a Sirena 58 for use in the United States, the semi-retired oil executive took the plunge and ordered a Sirena 68 for his Mediterranean cruising adventures. Not content with just one, Urbieta made the decision to upgrade his Sirena 58 to a second Sirena 68, scheduled for delivery in the coming months.
This extraordinary move sets Urbieta apart from other Sirena Yachts owners, as he will soon have the privilege of enjoying the benefits of his two spacious explorers in two distinctly different environments. In an exclusive interview, Urbieta shares the reasoning behind his choice of the Sirena 68 model, his personal preference for docking his vessels, and the advantages he derives from his truly unique ownership position.
Urbieta’s first Sirena yacht, the Sirena 58, offered the Fort Lauderdale-based owner and his family the perfect opportunity to take delivery in Istanbul and explore the scenery of the Turkish coast and the Greek islands before taking the yacht home to dock in the US.
However, in order to immerse himself fully into the boating lifestyle in south Florida and make space for his growing family, 65-year-old Urbieta felt it was time for an upgrade, as he explains: “I spent my summers on a boat in the mid 1960s in south Florida, which was just fantastic. I wanted to go back to being part of this very particular boating culture and lifestyle as I absolutely love it, and the Sirena 68 is the perfect boat for this, due to its generous volume, ample indoor and outdoor relaxation spaces and fantastic flybridge. Another factor was size of course: I have my daughter, my son-in-law and three grandkids to consider, so I knew I was going to have to go a little bigger to accommodate everyone.”
Unveiled to the world in 2021, the Sirena 68 yacht was made by Germán Frers, who stands behind its naval architecture and exterior design, and Cor D. Rover, who is responsible for the captivating interiors.
Designed with Urbieta's expanding family in mind, the Sirena 68 offers generous living spaces capable of accommodating up to eight guests. The master suite, positioned amidships, exudes a sense of luxurious tranquility, while the yacht's standout feature lies in its expansive flybridge deck – the largest in its class. Onboard, a crew of two, comprising a capable captain and a dedicated stewardess.
“I have to say, I really do enjoy docking my own boat,” says Urbieta. “Of course, there is always a risk of making a mistake, so I make use of a yacht controller, but once I’m outside the dock and out of the marina, I let the captain take charge so that I can fully relax with my family and friends.”
The Sirena 68 sports a resin-infused hull combined with a lightweight high-tech carbon fiber superstructure and hard top produced by Sirena Yachts’ in-house engineering department, which offer numerous benefits for its performance. These include improving onboard stability, reducing fuel consumption and providing the yacht with a longer range and higher speed.
Urbieta explains that onboard comfort is a priority for any boat in his fleet: “When I buy a yacht from Sirena Yachts, I get as many extras as possible to make the boat as comfortable as it can be. I choose to have gyros, fins, DPS (dynamic position satellites), a yacht controller and an extra station on the outside to help me dock the boat. Spending time on the boat is what makes me happy and my real passion, so I am keen to make it the best possible experience.”
Urbieta also has some substantial travel plans in the pipeline for his new Sirena 68, including exploring Saint Martin, The Bahamas, Puerto Rico, the British Virgin Islands and more. Thankfully, the Sirena 68 is well suited for such adventures. Built to CE Category A certification (the highest certification for recreation craft under 24 meters), the semi displacement yacht is capable of reaching top speeds of 26 knots with the 1,000 horsepower Volvo D13s option, and cruises comfortably at 20-21 knots.
When asked to name his favorite areas of his current Sirena 68, Urbieta first highlights his onboard office area. “It is wonderful being able to work on board – my office is right where the windshield of the boat is, next to the helm. I have my computer and my printer there and it is perfect. Every time I go into a different port, I can enjoy a different view from where I am working.”
Secondly, Urbieta also highlights the benefits of the Sirena 68’s famously spacious flybridge for hosting groups of family and friends. “When I was visiting Spain, I had a lot of relatives who I didn’t know very well, so I got them together and hosted all 30 of them together on the flybridge and we just had the most amazing time together. I love the social element of the boating lifestyle which has been enabled by owning these Sirena Yachts. People are drawn to lovely boats, and this brings so many like minded people together who derive pleasure from being out on the water.”
Sirena Yachts is a Turkish yacht brand. The company produces semi-displacement motor yachts ranging from 17m to over 50m.
Credits: Pozitif Studio/Sirena Yachts
The latest 80-meter Amels Limited Editions superyacht has arrived at Damen Yachting's Vlissingen shipyard in the Netherlands after construction at their Galatz facility in Romania. The vessel will now undergo full outfitting in preparation for delivery in 2027.Project Manager Danker Rijk stated: "After an impressive launch in our Galatz shipyard, we are delighted to welcome this Amels 80 to Vlissingen to commence the outfitting phase. This is an exciting milestone toward delivering another exceptional yacht on schedule."The 2,175 GT superyacht features exterior design by Espen Øino and interiors by Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design. With accommodations for 14 guests and 21 crew members, the vessel represents Damen Yachting's combination of custom features with proven yacht-building technology.The Amels 80 follows the Limited Editions series' approach of offering semi-custom superyachts with reduced build times compared to fully custom projects. No further details about the owner or specific custom features were disclosed.Damen Yachting, a division within the Damen Shipyards Group, was created in 2019. The division combines the pedigree and heritage of Amels yachts with a growing portfolio of SeaXplorer yachts and Yacht Support vessels.Credits: Damen Yachting
June 27, 2025
Flexjet and Ferretti Group have introduced Riva Volare, a custom aircraft cabin design inspired by Riva motoryachts. The collaboration brings nautical styling to Flexjet's Gulfstream G650 jets and Sikorsky S-76 helicopters, targeting ultra-high-net-worth travelers.The Gulfstream G650 configuration accommodates 12-15 passengers for flights up to 16 hours, while two Sikorsky S-76 helicopters will operate in Florida and a new Milan-based service covering Italy and the French Riviera. Ferretti Group clients will receive preferential access to the helicopter operations.The design blends elements from Riva's 1960s Aquarama with contemporary Aquariva models, using artisanal materials and distinctive patterns. The interiors were developed through collaboration between both companies' design teams.Kenn Ricci and Alberto Galassi"I have long admired the iconic style of Riva, and seeing this brought to life in our aircraft is nothing short of exceptional," said Flexjet Chairman Kenn Ricci. Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi added: "Riva Volare is another splendid result of our collaboration with Flexjet, a brand with which we share the same passion for constantly raising quality standards."The design was unveiled June 26 at Milano Prime Linate Airport, with displays of the aircraft alongside a Riva Aquariva Special yacht. No pricing details were disclosed.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
June 27, 2025
Italian shipyard AB Yachts, part of Next Yacht Group, has unveiled the AB 110S, a sportier version of its AB 110 model. The 33.7-meter yacht marks AB Yachts' first collaboration with automotive design firm EXE Design, incorporating elements such as a raked windshield and lightweight profile."We also boast over 20 years of experience in naval architecture. [And] this cross-sector approach is the real added value of our work," said Stefano Bedoni of EXE Design.Key features include multiple retractable systems: a sliding cockpit cover, a sunroof between the helm and saloon, and a hardtop that can cover either the helm station or sunpad. The main deck integrates a sunbathing area and a bar serving both indoor and outdoor spaces. A forward "flying couch" provides elevated seating with panoramic views.Powered by three MAN V12X-2200 engines, the AB 110S reaches 48 knots. The engine room is fully soundproofed to minimize noise and vibrations. No pricing or delivery details were disclosed.Italian shipyard AB Yachts was founded in 1992. In 2001, AB Yachts was acquired by the Fipa Group. Today Next Yacht Group is the owner of the historic Maiora, AB Yachts, and CBI Navi brands. AB Yachts range consists of semi-displacement yachts from 17.70 to 42 meters.Credits: AB Yachts
June 26, 2025
Cantiere del Pardo has introduced the Grand Soleil 65 Performance, a performance-oriented evolution of its 20-meter sailing yacht series. Following the Long Cruise version, this model emphasizes speed and responsiveness while retaining onboard comfort. The yacht made its debut at the Palma International Boat Show in May.As part of the Plus Line for vessels over 18 meters, the 65 Performance involves owners in the customization process from initial design stages. Franco Corazza, project manager for the Plus Line, stated: "The 65-footer is the result of a totally Made-in-Italy design process that brings together a team of professionals representing Italian excellence in the yachting sector." Naval architecture was handled by Matteo Polli, structural design by Marco Lostuzzi, and layout by Nauta Design.Environmental considerations include sustainable teak, laminated glass insulation, linen-reinforced composites, water-based paints, and solar panels. The hull utilizes epoxy-infused biaxial fiberglass and carbon reinforcements, with construction processes meeting strict quality certifications.Matteo Polli's design adapts features from the larger Grand Soleil 72, including a V-shaped bow for reduced drag and improved light-wind performance. The sail plan positions the mast aft to maximize the foretriangle, with a self-tacking jib as standard for simplified handling. Underwater, an inverted T-keel and single rudder balance stability and maneuverability, offering draft options of 3.5 meters (standard), 3.0 meters (shallow), or telescopic configurations.Nauta Design optimized deck space and interior flow, lowering the saloon to align with cabin levels for improved continuity. The coachroof's tapered profile distinguishes it from the Long Cruise version's panoramic windows. Massimo Gino of Nauta Design noted: "Our challenge was to convey a sense of motion and energy while preserving comfort, functionality, and style."Interior materials are customizable, with owners selecting finishes from the shipyard’s portfolio. No pricing or delivery timelines were disclosed.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: Grand Soleil Yachts
June 26, 2025
Denison Yachting has announced the availability of the fourth hull in the Conrad C144S series, priced at EUR32 million with a two-year delivery window. The vessel follows three previous models, including the award-winning Ace (hull 1), Extra Time (hull 2), and the upcoming Moonlight (hull 3), the latter two sold by Denison.Built by Conrad Shipyard in Gdańsk, Poland, the 44-meter C144S is a full-displacement superyacht with a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. The design features exterior styling by Reymond Langton Design and naval architecture by Diana Yacht Design, emphasizing seakeeping performance. The "S" designation refers to the straight bow, which increases interior volume while maintaining a streamlined profile.Interior options include the original M2 Atelier concept seen on earlier models or alternative designs, such as Nauta Design’s understated approach chosen for Moonlight. The yacht accommodates 10–12 guests across a full-beam owner’s suite and four VIP cabins, with crew quarters for nine.Key features include a sundeck with a hot tub, infinity pool, and outdoor cinema, along with a beach club featuring a wet bar and wellness area. Storage capacity includes a 7-meter tender, two jet skis, and multiple SeaBobs.With a transoceanic range exceeding 4,000 nautical miles, the C144S cruises at 11 knots (max 13.8 knots) and complies with IMO Tier III and Lloyd’s MCA LY3 standards."The C144S represents a proven platform with award-winning design and strong value in the 500GT segment," said Denison broker Alex Clarke. Delivery is scheduled for 2027.Conrad Shipyard is located in Gdansk, Poland and specializes in building steel, and aluminum luxury yachts ranging from 24 to 100 meters in length.Credits: Denison Yachting
June 26, 2025