Yacht news

A 2012 Zeelander Z44 previously owned by Victoria's Secret model Adriana Lima has undergone an extensive refit at the Dutch shipyard. The 13.52-meter yacht now features a full repaint in its original Rolls-Royce titanium color, rebuilt Volvo Penta IPS 600 engines, and refreshed upholstery. The vessel is currently available for immediate delivery through Zeelander Yachts.The refit process included stripping the hull to bare laminate before applying a new Awlgrip paint system with three base layers and clear coat. While the cherry wood interior and original cockpit table required only cleaning, exterior upholstery was replaced with diamond-stitched Silvertex fabric in ice white. The Volvo Penta IPS pods were fully overhauled despite having only 500 operating hours, restoring them to factory-new condition with a renewed warranty."Although we often talk about the extraordinary detailing on new Zeelander yachts, it’s less commonly known that we pour the same degree of attention and craftsmanship into our existing fleet as well," said Floris Koopmans, Zeelander's business development manager. "The refit of our Z44 from 2012 is a testament to both the longevity of our timeless designs and the skill of our team when it comes to revitalising a much-loved yacht."The Z44 model has been discontinued, with Zeelander's current lineup consisting of four models ranging from 15 to 24 meters. The refurbished yacht represents one of the last opportunities to acquire this out-of-production design in like-new condition.Zeelander Yachts was founded in 2002 in the Netherlands by Sietse Koopmans. The first model was unveiled to the public in 2008. The launch model Z44 received positive reviews at the Monaco Yacht Show and drew enormous crowds, despite being at an event dominated by much larger yachts. Within three years, the Z44 had been successfully introduced to the US as well as Europe, and it was an obvious direction to add a larger model to the fleet. The first Z55 was delivered in November 2015, and the flagship Z72 was launched in March 2019.Credit: Zeelander Yachts

Gruppo Antonini has officially commenced construction of the WHPA offshore platform, a project aimed at boosting gas production in Libya’s Gulf of Sirte. The company held the First Cut ceremony at its Pertusola shipyard in La Spezia and Arcora mechanical workshop, marking the start of work on the $1.35 billion initiative.The WHPA platform is part of a broader EPICIC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Commissioning) contract awarded by Mellitah Oil & Gas B.V., a joint venture between Eni S.p.A. and Libya’s National Oil Corporation. The contract was granted to a consortium comprising Gruppo Antonini, Rosetti Marino, and Kerry Project Logistics (Italia).Walter Antonini and Orazio CarloneGruppo Antonini’s share of the project is valued at approximately $300 million. The company is responsible for manufacturing the accommodation module, helideck, foundation piles, and related commissioning activities. The WHPA platform, weighing over 20,000 tonnes, will also include a Fast Moving Workover Rig for the Bahr Essalam offshore field.The First Cut ceremony, attended by Mellitah Oil & Gas and consortium representatives, symbolizes the initial steel-cutting phase. The project reinforces Gruppo Antonini’s role in energy infrastructure development.The company reported strong growth, with projected 2024 revenues of €90 million, aligning with its 2025-2027 strategic plan focused on innovation, sustainability, and global expansion. Separately, Gruppo Antonini continues to expand its yachting division, Antonini Navi, with four custom steel yachts over 30 meters in length under construction – two of which are scheduled for delivery in 2026.Through its participation in OMC Ravenna 2025, Gruppo Antonini aims to strengthen its position as a leader in the offshore energy sector, highlighting its capabilities in executing complex projects and embracing the challenges of the evolving energy landscape.Credits: Gruppo Antonini

Saxdor Yachts has extended its dealer agreement with Greece-based Thrace Labea to include Bulgaria, Romania, and Albania, reinforcing its presence in Southeastern Europe. Thrace Labea, one of Saxdor’s earliest dealers, will now oversee sales and service in the three new markets.The expansion follows Thrace Labea’s established operations in Greece, where it has developed a scalable business model for the Finnish boatbuilder. Local teams have been set up in Bulgaria and Romania to provide customer support, while a partner in Albania will handle growing demand as the country emerges as a Mediterranean boating destination.Jon Hautamäki, Sales Director at Saxdor Yachts, stated: “The expansion of Thrace Labea’s responsibilities into Bulgaria, Romania and Albania reflects both exceptional performance and the growing confidence in Saxdor across the region.”Nikos Zarifis, Managing Director at Thrace Labea, added: “We’re excited to take this next step with Saxdor. Southeast Europe offers strong potential for growth, and we are committed to delivering the same level of service and passion for the brand that we have brought to the Greek market.”The move aligns with Saxdor’s strategy to strengthen its position in emerging markets. The brand’s focus on performance hulls and versatile designs has driven demand in the Mediterranean region. Thrace Labea’s expanded role solidifies its position as a regional hub for Saxdor’s operations.Since its inception in 2019, Saxdor Yachts has experienced exponential growth, producing over 1000 boats and capturing the industry’s attention with their innovative approach. Now, with the introduction of the Saxdor 400 GTO, Saxdor Yachts aims to make waves in the 40-45 ft sport boat market, leveling up from the game-changing entry-level 200 and mid-range 320 models.Credits: Saxdor Yachts

Ferretti Group will present seven yachts at the sixth Venice Boat Show, running from May 29 to June 2, including two world premieres: the Pershing GTX70 and Ferretti Yachts 940. The event takes place in Venice’s historic Arsenale district.The Pershing GTX70, launched in March, marks the third model in the brand’s Sport Utility Yachts series and coincides with Pershing’s 40th anniversary. The 70-foot yacht retains the sporty design and spacious layout of its predecessors in a more compact form.Ferretti Yachts 940The Ferretti Yachts 940, unveiled in January at the Cattolica shipyard, makes its public debut at the show. As the largest model in the Ferretti Yachts range, the 94-foot widebody emphasizes interior space and cruising comfort.Five additional models from Ferretti Group brands will be displayed: the Riva Dolceriva, Riva 68’ Diable, Itama 45RS, Pershing 8X, and Wallywhy100.Pershing GTX70The Group has partnered with luxury brands for the event, including Dolce & Gabbana, which designed staff uniforms. Hotel Gritti Palace hosts the Riva Lounge, while Lavazza, Range Rover, La Scolca, Aperol, Seabob, Frette, Lanerossi, Zimmer + Rohde, Atelier Rebul, Venini, and Zanta contribute to the exhibition’s amenities. Additional partners include Bang & Olufsen, Flexjet, and Torello.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

U-Boat Worx has launched its Wet Lease program, a comprehensive solution enabling commercial operators to offer submarine experiences without owning or operating the equipment themselves. The Dutch submersible manufacturer, active since 2005, aims to expand access to deep-sea exploration through this managed service model.The program addresses key barriers to underwater tourism by handling all operational aspects, including vessel provision, crew, maintenance, permitting, and dive logistics. Operators only need to supply passengers, while U-Boat Worx manages the entire diving experience. Available submarines accommodate 2 to 7 passengers."This model removes concerns about recruitment, training, maintenance, and regulations," said Wilbert Beilsma, Commercial Director at U-Boat Worx. "Operators bring guests; we handle everything else."With over 60 submarines in service and 10,000+ commercial dives completed, U-Boat Worx has established itself as a leader in private submersible operations. The company reports growing demand for unique underwater experiences in luxury travel, marine tourism, and conservation sectors.The Wet Lease program follows successful pilot operations and complements existing financial models: outright purchase, financial lease, operational lease, and fractional ownership. This expansion positions U-Boat Worx not just as a manufacturer but as an operational partner for commercial users."Submarine dives represent a distinctive, bucket-list experience that differentiates destinations," noted Roy Heijdra, Marketing Manager. "They generate significant marketing value through guest engagement and word-of-mouth promotion."The initiative comes as experiential travel continues gaining market share globally. By simplifying access to deep-sea exploration, U-Boat Worx aims to make underwater adventures available to a broader audience while supporting marine tourism development. The company's submersibles have previously been used for scientific research, film production, and private exploration in addition to commercial operations.Operators in resort, cruise, yacht charter, and ecotourism sectors are identified as potential adopters of the Wet Lease model. The program's scalability allows for implementation in various marine environments worldwide, subject to local regulatory approvals. U-Boat Worx maintains all necessary international certifications for its vessels and crew.This development reflects broader trends in the luxury experience market, where operators increasingly seek turnkey solutions to differentiate their offerings. The submarine experience market has grown steadily since 2010, with particular interest from Asia-Pacific and Middle Eastern markets in recent years.U-Boat Worx continues to develop new submersible models alongside its service offerings, with recent additions focusing on improved viewing capabilities and enhanced passenger comfort. The company maintains production facilities in the Netherlands and operates globally through regional partners.Credits: U-Boat Worx