Yacht news

Alinghi Red Bull Racing has announced its withdrawal from the upcoming America’s Cup competition, citing financial and strategic reasons. The team, which was set to compete in the 37th edition of the prestigious sailing event, confirmed the decision in a statement released today.“After careful consideration and thorough analysis of our current situation, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the America’s Cup,” said team principal Bruno Troublé. “This was not an easy choice, but we believe it is the right one for the future of our organization.”The withdrawal comes as a significant blow to the America’s Cup, which was scheduled to take place in Barcelona later this year. Organizers have yet to comment on how the absence of Alinghi Red Bull Racing will impact the competition format and schedule.Alinghi Red Bull Racing has been a prominent participant in recent America’s Cup editions, most notably competing in the 36th edition held in Bermuda. The team has a history dating back to the original Alinghi squad that won the America’s Cup in 2003.“We want to thank all our supporters, partners, and the incredible team members who have been part of this journey,” Troublé added. “While we are leaving the America’s Cup, we remain committed to the sport of sailing and look forward to exploring new opportunities in the future.”The team’s departure leaves the field of competitors for the 37th America’s Cup reduced, with organizers now facing the challenge of potentially finding a replacement team or adjusting the competition format. The America’s Cup is known for its high-stakes, high-tech sailing competitions involving cutting-edge catamarans capable of speeds exceeding 50 knots.Details regarding the future of Alinghi Red Bull Racing’s assets, including their AC75 foiling catamaran, have not been disclosed. The team’s withdrawal adds to the uncertainty surrounding the America’s Cup, which has already faced challenges related to cost and complexity in recent years.Organizers of the America’s Cup are expected to provide further updates on how they plan to proceed with the competition in the coming days. The event remains one of the most prestigious and technically demanding regattas in the sailing world, attracting teams from around the globe.Credits: Alinghi Red Bull Racing

The Sunseeker 131 motor yacht ‘Best of Me’ has entered the luxury yacht market through Camper & Nicholsons. Built in 2014, the vessel has undergone a comprehensive refit in 2023, bringing it up to the latest standards of comfort and performance.The yacht measures 40 meters in length and features exterior design by Don Shead. The interior, spanning three decks, has been reconfigured during the recent refit to accommodate up to 12 guests across six staterooms. The master suite is located on the main deck, offering panoramic views and direct access to the aft deck.Key features include a spacious beach club area with a hydraulic swim platform, a large sundeck with alfresco dining facilities, and a fully equipped gym. The yacht is powered by twin Caterpillar engines, delivering a top speed of 30 knots and a cruising speed of 25 knots.The refit included upgrades to the vessel’s technical systems, including new generators, stabilization systems, and air conditioning units. The interior received new furnishings and finishes, with a focus on creating a contemporary, luxurious ambiance.“Best of Me presents an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a well-maintained, high-performance yacht with a proven pedigree,” said a spokesperson from Camper & Nicholsons. “The recent refit has ensured that the yacht meets the highest standards of comfort and performance expected from a vessel of this caliber.”The yacht is currently available for viewing in the Mediterranean and is offered for sale through Camper & Nicholsons, one of the world’s leading yacht brokers. The asking price and further details are available upon request through the brokerage firm.The vessel’s layout includes a master stateroom on the main deck, a VIP stateroom on the upper deck, four additional guest staterooms on the lower deck, crew quarters for up to 10 staff, multiple entertainment areas, and state-of-the-art audio-visual systems.The yacht is equipped with advanced navigation systems, including stabilizers at anchor and underway, ensuring comfort during both cruising and stationary periods. The exterior decks provide ample space for socializing and relaxing, with multiple seating areas and dining options both inside and outside.Best of Me is registered in the Cayman Islands and is compliant with all relevant international regulations and standards. The yacht is offered with a full inventory of water toys and tenders, making it ready for immediate enjoyment by its new owner.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons

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

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

The inaugural World Yachting Summit in Monaco convened over 200 participants from 20 countries, including industry leaders, regulators, and innovators, to address critical challenges facing the sector. Modeled after global forums like COP and Davos, the three-day event featured 19 panel sessions and 8 keynote talks focused on sustainability, modernization, and generational engagement.Keynote speaker Jean-Claude Biver, former CEO of Blancpain and Hublot, emphasized innovation through his "first, unique, different" philosophy, while Azimut Benetti's Giovanna Vitelli led discussions on practical sustainability measures. A SMART framework emerged from debates:Sustainable: Industry must transition from compliance to climate leadership, per DNV's Barbara Sanches and Energy Observer's Victorien Erussard.Modern: Calls for transparency in listings and standardized regulations for emerging destinations.Attractive: Shift needed from ostentation to purpose-driven experiences for younger demographics.Resourceful: Unified advocacy and economic impact storytelling urged, mirroring aviation sector models.Transformative: Early marine education and human-centric design identified as priorities.Albert Manzone of Société des Bains de Mer highlighted Monaco's stability as a blueprint for resilience. Closing sessions noted geopolitical and labor challenges, with cautious optimism about adapting to sustainability demands and experience-focused ownership models.The Summit was co-organized by M3 and OMNIYAT. M3 CEO José Marco Casellini stated: "WYS 2025 leaves a lasting impression... establishing itself as a driving force for innovation and strategic thinking about the future of yachting."A second edition is planned for 2026 to continue progress on these initiatives.Credits: World Yachting Summit