Each year, the World Superyacht Awards recognize the ingenuity and craftsmanship of some of the finest luxury yachts in the world. This year 5 yachts were presented in the Refitted Yachts nomination.
#1 Asteria was built in 1970 by Anastassiades & Tsortanides as a rescue tug. She was completely rebuilt and converted into a yacht in 2002. In 2019, there was completed a major renovation, including a repainting, a modernized aluminum mast and a major overhaul of its interiors and exteriors.
The motor yacht can accommodate 12 guests in 6 cabins with interior design by Tracey Barnier-Willis Design and exterior by Pieter Beeldsnijder.
The conversion was carried out by the architect Charles Zana. On the deck, at the aft dining table, there is a completely new built-in lounge and jacuzzi, also updated the design of the bathrooms.
Significant changes have also been made to the toy list: many new water toyshave appeared, including kayaks, sailboats, water skis and wakeboards. Yacht also has a new custom-made 6.6-meter high-speed jet tender for landing on the beach, an 8.5-meter Northbind RIB tender with a cab and two 5.5-meter Zodiac tenders. It is also equipped with stabilizers Quantum Zero Speed.
#2 The M5 (ex. Mirabella V) is the world's largest sloop and one of the most advanced sailing superyachts afloat. It was built by Vosper Thornycroft in 2004.
The main amenities include a gym, sauna, cinema, barbecue, tender garage, swimming platform, pool, jacuzzi. A sailing yacht can accommodate 14 guests in 7 cabins.
With a beam of 14.82 m and a draft of 10.86 m, it has a GRP hull and a GRP superstructure. It was built according to the rules of the classification society DNV (Det Norske Veritas) Germanischer Lloyd and complies with MCA standards.
The yacht is also equipped with 1080 hp engines, each of which provides a maximum speed of 14 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots.
#3 The 36-meter Sovereign 120 Northern Dream (ex. Lady Diana II) motor yacht was built in 1999 by Sovereign Yachts and was remodeled in 2018 at the Philbrook shipyard.
The internal layout of Northern Dream accommodates up to 6 guests in 3 rooms and also have 3 double cabins. Overall, yacht able to carry up to 5 crew members on board.
#4 Designed by Glade Johnson, Oasis was built of steel and aluminum by the German yard Lürssen and delivered in 2006. In 2012, a substantial renovation was carried out with the participation of an interior design studio FM Architettura d’Interni.
The yacht accommodates 12 guests in six cabins, including a master suite with an area of 99 square meters, a VIP suite, three double and two single, all with plasma TVs, surround sound systems and bathrooms.
A distinctive feature is a huge sun terrace with a jacuzzi, a bar, a barbecue, a 120-inch open-air cinema, a dance floor and a DJ table.
1454 kW Caterpillar diesel engines deliver a range of 5,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 13 knots.
#5 Tanzanite is a 145-inch super-yacht built by Westship and architect Jack Sarin Naval Architects in 2004 and refitted in 2018.
The design of the yacht was created in the Art Deco style. Her main salon features a classic color palette and large panoramic windows with natural light.
The main feature is the Skylounge, a solarium and a large dining room next to the jacuzzi and bar. The yacht comes with full equipment suitable for long trips. It includes Intrepid and Walker Bay RIB, as well as pedal boats and various towed items, from wakeboards to water skiing.
Henk de Vries III will retire as Director of Feadship and CEO of Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw on 1 May 2025, concluding nearly four decades of leadership in the superyacht industry. He will transition to an Ambassador role for Feadship while maintaining involvement as a non-executive board member and shareholder of the family-owned shipbuilder.Henk de Vries De Vries joined the company in 1987 and became a director/shareholder in 1996 alongside his cousin Tom de Vries. Under their leadership, De Vries expanded to seven operating companies with over 1,200 employees. The group remains fully family-owned and holds a 50% stake in Feadship.A proponent of sustainability, de Vries co-founded the Water Revolution Foundation in 2018 and continues as its Board Chairman. The organization focuses on reducing yachting’s ecological impact through science-based initiatives.Leadership transitions to Roderick de Vries as CEO and Operational Director, with Bas Nederpelt assuming the role of Chief Commercial Officer and Feadship Director. The new executive team brings over 80 years of combined experience at De Vries.Henk and Tom de VriesHenk de Vries stated: “The four members of our new executive board bring with them over eighty years of De Vries experience. Their deep understanding of the company ensures it is in very capable hands.”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
April 25, 2025
Apreamare California, the brand’s new exclusive dealer for the U.S. West Coast, will present the American premiere of the Gozzo 38 Cabin at the Newport Beach International Boat Show from May 1st to 4th. The new dealership, led by entrepreneur Jack Suski, marks Apreamare’s return to the U.S. market, where the brand has previously sold nearly 100 boats across Florida, California, Connecticut, and other regions.Based in San Francisco Bay, Apreamare California maintains direct ties with the Sorrento shipyard, ensuring clients receive an authentic Made in Italy experience.The Gozzo 38 Cabin is a year-round cruising version of the popular Gozzo line, designed for enhanced comfort in rougher waters while retaining the open version’s signature style. Developed by Cataldo Aprea, Marco Casali, and Umberto Tagliavini, the model features a redesigned deckhouse with panoramic windows, offering a 360-degree view and a fully enclosed dinette.Giovanni Aprea, Sales Director of Apreamare, stated: “Overseas shipowners have always shown a strong appreciation for Apreamare boats, attracted by the timeless style of our creations, the excellent navigation capabilities, and the endless customization possibilities. With Apreamare California and our participation in the Newport Beach boat show, we bring this heritage directly to our esteemed American customers.”Jack Suski, CEO of Apreamare California, added: “I am thrilled to introduce the Gozzo 38 Cabin to California. Apreamare’s elegance and seaworthiness perfectly align with West Coast boating culture, offering owners the opportunity to cruise the coastline in style and with confidence.”The Newport Beach International Boat Show will be held at Lido Marina Village.Credits: Apreamare
April 25, 2025
The 60 Sunreef Power Eco electric catamaran has been named Catamaran of the Year 2025 in the Multipower category. The award was presented on April 23 during the International Multihull Show in La Grande Mothe, France. The prestigious accolade is granted by Multihulls World magazine to recognize the most innovative and outstanding catamarans in the industry.The 18m catamaran features an advanced solar energy system with photovoltaic panels integrated into the hulls, bimini roof, and superstructure. Powered by two electric motors, the vessel benefits from a continuous supply of clean energy, delivering a smooth and environmentally friendly sailing experience.A key feature of the 60 Sunreef Power Eco is its special ultralight battery, which enables silent and vibration-free operation. The catamaran is designed for comprehensive 360° sustainable sailing, incorporating an energy-efficient air conditioning system and eco-friendly materials in its finishes. Sunreef Yachts was founded by Francis Lapp in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland. Since then, the shipyard has been designing and manufacturing luxury sailing and power multihulls. Credits: Sunreef Yachts
April 25, 2025
Viken Group has introduced its latest innovation in the luxury cruise yacht sector – the 196-meter REI. Developed as a collaborative effort between the three brands of the Viken Group – TDoS (Tillberg Design of Sweden), Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – the project aims to set new standards in sustainable and exclusive cruise experiences.The REI project solidifies Viken Group’s position as a pioneer in the luxury cruise yacht segment. The vessel, designed to accommodate up to 112 guests and 125 crew members across its 10 decks, features a beam of 28 meters and offers a unique blend of adventure, sustainability, and exclusivity.“We are thrilled to introduce REI. The 196-meter project is the perfect illustration of the combined offerings of the Viken Group, where we manage exterior styling, engineering, master planning, and interior under one umbrella,” said Fredrik Johansson, Co-Founder of the Viken Group and Executive Director of TDoS. “This approach helps our clients streamline the process dramatically, control investments, and optimize outcomes for both guests and operators.”The yacht’s design features a streamlined exterior inspired by nature, combining technical, industrial, and automotive aesthetics with dynamic curves. In contrast, the contemporary interior offers a tranquil environment with adjustable lighting and tactile materials, providing a rare digital detox experience for guests.REI’s design focuses on balancing private and public spaces, featuring numerous dedicated areas for exclusive use. Notable amenities include duplex suites with private winter gardens and pools, massage areas, double-height windows showcasing panoramic views, and a stunning forward infinity pool.Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with multiple propulsion options including electric, hydrogen, solar, and wind power. The vessel also includes a secondary 27-meter expedition vessel for easy embarkation and disembarkation, powered by electric or solar energy.The onboard experience is designed to be ever-evolving, with entertainment, activities, and menus adapting to the time of year and location. The exploratory dining concept, themed ‘from sea, to land, to sky,’ offers a diverse culinary journey.“The market for cruise yachts is currently looking very promising,” said Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director at Viken Group. “Thanks to our three brands – TDoS, Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – Viken Group can harness our unique expertise across superyachts, cruise ships, and refits, meaning we are perfectly positioned to make our mark.”The REI project represents a significant advancement in the luxury cruise yacht sector, combining innovative design, sustainability, and an unparalleled guest experience.Credits: Viken Group
April 24, 2025
Heesen Yachts has announced the passing of its founder, Frans Heesen, on April 23, 2025, in his hometown of Oss. He is survived by his wife Petra, children, and grandchildren.Frans Heesen’s leadership and talent for identifying and nurturing potential were fundamental to the success and growth of Heesen Yachts. Known for his visionary approach and Dutch courage, Heesen took bold steps that shaped the future of the shipyard.One of his most notable achievements was the decision to build the groundbreaking yacht Octopussy, despite significant risks. This project not only succeeded but also brought global recognition to Heesen Yachts.Throughout his career, Frans dedicated himself to creating a family-like atmosphere at the shipyard. Even after the company was sold, the family environment he established remained strong. The values he instilled continue to define the company’s culture today.Heesen Yachts expressed its deepest condolences to Frans’ family and friends, noting that while his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit and vision will continue to guide the company.Frans Heesen’s contributions have left a lasting impact on the yachting industry and on everyone who had the opportunity to work with him. He will be remembered for his pioneering spirit and dedication to excellence.Credits: Heesen Yachts
April 24, 2025