Yacht news

In a decisive move, The Italian Sea Group S.P.A. (TISG) has announced that it will be pursuing legal action against The New York Times following an article published on October 31, 2024. The company claims that the piece contained serious inaccuracies regarding the sinking of its yacht, the Bayesian, which has tarnished the reputation of the renowned Perini Navi brand, known for its excellence in luxury yachting.In its statement, TISG asserted that the article lacked technical accuracy and failed to credit qualified sources for its claims. The company emphasized that it acquired the Perini Navi brand and related assets in January 2021 and thus cannot be held accountable for events prior to that acquisition.Addressing specific claims made in the article:Sloop vs. Ketch Stability: TISG refuted allegations relating to the stability of the single-mast design, asserting that the Bayesian fully complies with stability standards set by the Maritime Coastguard Agency.Expert Opinions: The company questioned the validity of unnamed experts cited in the article, insisting that the Bayesian’s design was developed by esteemed naval architect Ron Holland, thereby ensuring a reliable design.Watertight Doors: TISG clarified that the watertight doors mentioned in the article meet regulatory requirements and can only allow water ingress under improper operation.Responsibility for Vulnerabilities: TISG stated that any alleged vulnerabilities reported were likely the result of operational errors rather than design flaws.Ballast Considerations: The company defended the design of the ballast system, asserting that it was strategically placed to balance the yacht without compromising safety.Deck Design: TISG contested claims regarding the deck design affecting buoyancy, stating that such factors are regulated and do not violate safety standards.Regulatory Compliance: The company highlighted that the Bayesian's stability booklet has received MCA approval, confirming compliance with international standards.Wind Conditions During Incident: TISG provided further technical data, asserting that anticipated heeling angles during adverse weather do not support claims of inherent design flaws.In summary, TISG declared that the Bayesian is unsinkable when operated under proper sailing conditions and expressed confidence that ongoing investigations will clarify the circumstances of the incident.The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters. Credit: The Italian Sea Group; Yacht Harbour archive

Nauta Design is thrilled to announce that the Southern Wind SW108 Gelliceaux has been honored with the ISS Award 2024 in the Best Sail 24-40m category.The prestigious Design & Leadership Award Gala took place on October 30 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, drawing together some of the most significant figures from the international yachting industry to celebrate this year's exceptional yacht launches.The Gelliceaux, the first in the Southern Wind 108 series, has been recognized by the judges for its innovative approach to sustainable sailing, featuring a state-of-the-art diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system. This unique project, designed from inception to prioritize eco-friendliness, sets a new standard for performance sailing. The judges praised Gelliceaux for its integration of modern design elements that harmonize with its sleek exterior, offering a cohesive and forward-looking sailing experience.Jim Schmicker and Jeremy Peek at ISS AwardsMassimo Gino of Nauta Design expressed pride in Gelliceaux's achievement: “We are pleased and proud that the Southern Wind 108’ Gelliceaux won the ISS Award. We extend our gratitude to everyone involved in the project, from the construction teams at Southern Wind to the talented Farr Yacht Design. A special thanks to the Owners, whose vision and collaboration made the creative process truly rewarding."Gelliceaux is part of the ‘GT’ series of Southern Wind bluewater sailing yachts, which also includes the award-winning SW105 Taniwha and SW96 Nyumba.As one of the first Southern Wind yachts equipped with a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system, Gelliceaux not only showcases impressive performance, having clinched the overall title at the 2024 St Barth’s Bucket and excelling at the 2024 Ibiza JoySail in the Performance Cruising L division, but also stands out for its striking aesthetic.The yacht's deck design is characterized by clean geometry that embodies the signature Nauta GT look. Its sporty coach roof, adorned with teak and a large central skylight, seamlessly transitions to ‘floating’ bench seats, enhancing both functionality and grace. A distinctive Z-shaped composite coaming gives Gelliceaux an agile profile, while the innovative opening transom creates a staircase leading to the beach platform – perfect for connecting guests with the sea when anchored.The interior of Gelliceaux is a study in elegance, emphasizing a soothing Mediterranean vibe with a warm color palette and refined fabric-lined walls. The two-level saloon features a unique lounge sofa that bridges both levels, contributing to an open and inviting atmosphere.Natural light floods the interior through expansive hull windows and skylights, complemented by soft shapes and rounded edges for a harmonious aesthetic. The expertly designed furniture appears freestanding, enhancing the open space feel and creating a cozy ambiance that is both stylish and sophisticated.Southern Wind is a boutique bluewater sailing yacht shipyard founded in Cape Town in 1991. Since its foundation, SWS has specialized in the production of semi-custom high-performance superyachts. Credits: Nauta Design

Benetti is set to make a splash at the inaugural Qatar Boat Show, taking place in Doha from November 6 to 9, alongside 500 companies from around the globe.This premier event, held at Old Doha Port and dedicated to luxury yachts, marks a significant occasion for Benetti. Attendees are invited to visit the brand’s lounge at stand EQP016, where the shipyard will present its rich history, latest innovations, and future objectives. Benetti specializes in producing and marketing composite yachts ranging from 34 to 44 meters, as well as aluminum and steel yachts from 37 to over 100 meters.The highly anticipated boat show underscores the region's rising significance as a prime destination for superyacht cruising and a key tourist hub in the Middle East. It also highlights Qatar's growing community of yacht owners who appreciate high-quality Italian craftsmanship. With approximately 1,877 yacht berths available—108 of which accommodate vessels between 40 and 160 meters—and an anticipated rise in consumer spending power projected to reach between $73 billion and $90 billion by the end of 2029, Qatar is firmly establishing itself in the luxury yacht market.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

The Riva Boutique, open from November 5 to January 31, 2025, will be hosted by Deodato Arte at Via Nerino 2 in Milan, surrounded by pop and street art.This exclusive new space combines timelessly elegant design inspired by the world of Riva boats with contemporary art. Riva announces the opening of the first Riva Boutique at Deodato Arte, a leading Italian gallery and international benchmark in pop and street art, featuring works by renowned artists such as Banksy, Jeff Koons, Mr. Brainwash, and David LaChapelle.Enthusiasts can explore the entire Riva Boutique collection, showcasing the quintessential quality and incomparable style that permeates the brand. From apparel and accessories to collectibles and home furnishings of rare beauty, the store offers a wide range of products.Among the items for sale are collaborations with top brands, such as the Riva by Frette collection of fabrics, the new models of the Riva Florida and Riva Junior powerboats from Kiade, two fine-art books marking the 60th anniversary of the Aquarama published by Assouline, and innovative speakers developed in partnership with Bang & Olufsen, designed for peerless acoustic quality even at sea.In addition to the Riva Boutique collection, guests can also purchase artworks by Deodato Arte artists, making this fusion of boat design and contemporary art even more unique.The Riva Boutique will host a series of exclusive events, including the presentation of scale models of Riva boats on November 21 and an evening dedicated to the books on December 5.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

The Swan Sardinia Challenge, a groundbreaking international sailing event focused on the newly launched ClubSwan 28, concluded successfully yesterday in Villasimius, southeastern Sardinia. Running from October 30 to November 2, the challenge marked the final stage of the 2024 Nations League within the esteemed ClubSwan Racing One Design circuit. The Swiss team Anya Race clinched the overall Nations League title, followed closely by Japan's Swing, featuring Olympic gold medalist Will Ryan as tactician, and the French team Marcello. Swing triumphed in the Swan Sardinia Challenge, with Anya Race taking second and the American team Play Bigger finishing in third.Sailing conditions throughout this exhilarating week were idyllic, permitting eight competitive races among the five national teams. The final day showcased an easterly wind fluctuating between 10 and 14 knots before tapering off below 10 knots.Keisuke Suzuki, owner of the victorious Swing team, expressed his enthusiasm: "I’m thrilled to have won for the first time in this class. I’d love to come back again next year. With only five crew members, communication is crucial."Will Ryan reflected on the final race, stating, “We were very close to the Swiss team, engaging in a competitive back-and-forth that heightened the pressure. This intensity pushed us to perform better and secure our victory. The team did an outstanding job, showcasing impressive downwind speed that helped us navigate tight situations. It’s been fantastic to be a part of this event and demonstrate the ClubSwan 28’s capabilities.”Giulio Gatti, owner of Anya Race, commented on the competition experience: “I had a lot of fun and fully enjoyed the event. Although we expected to win today, that wasn't the case – congratulations to the Japanese team for their exceptional sailing. I hope to learn from them for the next event. As more boats join the fleet next season, it’ll only get more exciting, and the friendships formed here make it all the more enjoyable.”Cecilia Perotti, racing with her team called Out of Comfort Zone, relayed her thrilling journey: “It’s my first time participating in a regatta, and there were moments I truly felt 'out of my comfort zone.' Winning a race was an exhilarating experience, filled with adrenaline until the very end!”“The Swan Sardinia Challenge successfully extended the tourist season in Villasimius beyond October," remarked Gianluca Dessì, the town’s mayor. “This event has showcased the beauty and potential of our region during off-peak times, attracting visitors eager to enjoy the local beaches and excellent sailing conditions.”Giovanni Pomati, CEO of Nautor Swan, praised the event’s showcase of the ClubSwan 28, emphasizing its role in promoting inclusivity in sailing. Luisa Bambozzi, Managing Director of ClubSwan Racing, thanked the local partners for their support in creating a welcoming environment for all participants.Co-organized by the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, this event exemplified the spirit of camaraderie and passion for sailing, setting the stage for many more thrilling competitions in the future.Nautor Swan was founded in 1966 in Pietarsaari, Finland. The builder entered the superyacht market in 1999. Since then, the yard has continued building high-performance sailing yachts in three different lines; ClubSwan, Swan Yachts and Maxi Swan Yachts. Credit: Nautor Swan