Have The Italians Had a Change of Heart Concerning the Superyacht Berthing Tax?

In Italy today, an amendment has been passed that appears to modify the recent “Berthing Tax” law that have had many in the Superyacht industry worried.


It is understood that only Italian flagged vessels will be required to pay this tax and therefore all non-Italian flagged vessels will be exempt.


Further, the tax will be paid on a yearly basis and will no longer include an option for daily application.  


While this news is as yet unconfirmed, it is our understanding that the final approval vote on this matter will take place either today or tomorrow morning.


We will be sure to follow up with official news as soon as this occurs.

Revolutionary Pay As You Sail ENC Service Launched

E-navigation company Navtor has announced a market first, with the launch of its ‘Pay As You Sail’ Electronic Navigation Charts service (ENC).


The DNV approved service offers an easy, and cost effective, solution for the complicated task of managing Electronic Navigation Charts.


The IMO’s ECDIS mandate requires registered vessels to use ENC as their prime navigation charts. This mandate begins in July 2012, with a need to comply with regulations by 2018.


At present navigators on vessels have to calculate which ENCs they will need for journeys and pre-order them via email, while also collecting the relevant permits and licences prior to leaving port. Much of the navigators’ valuable time is therefore spent on administration.


The PAYS system puts the navigator back in control. It works on a subscription basis, allowing navigators to immediately access the charts they need.


As the name suggests, the user only pays for the charts they actually need when they set sail.

Exclusive First Look at Tender for Vitruvius 73

Built by Cockwells in Cornwall UK Bow Rider  is the 9m ‘Owners Tender’ for the 73 metre Vitruvius Superyacht under construction at the Perini Navi yard in Yildiz Turkey


Designed by Andrew Wolstenholme and Cockwells the rendering seen here for the first time shows the tenders retro styling. 


The hull is built using lightweight composite technology in epoxy foam sandwich construction with external Awl grip paint system and teak decking. 


The interiors is handcrafted and has seating for 12 with a wet bar, electric toilet and basin in the forepeak and dive ladder off bathing platform  with shower. 



Cockwells build custom tenders which are individually designed to meet an owners exact specifications.  They work with their own designers or those selected by clients.


From open-air runabouts and covered air-conditioned limousines to spacious weekenders, they build to any design.

Tender Specification

• LOA 9.1m
• Beam 2.7m
• Height 1.8 m
• Approx Weight 3.25 tonnes
• Engines 2 x 315 HP

Sevenstar Yacht Transport Expands in UK

Within months of the new Sevenstar office opening in England, the company has doubled its team in size as of February 1st.


Whilst the core business of Sevenstar Yacht Transport is to utilise its own fleet where possible to ship yachts around the world, the Sevenstar UK office also successfully offers liner options to its clients so opening up a whole new avenue of shipping options in addition to the lift-on-lift-off services.


One of the company’s greatest strengths lies with its parent company Spliethoff. The Amsterdam-based Spliethoff Group is the largest shipowner in the Netherlands, specialising in heavy lift vessels which are ideal for carrying yachts.


Sevenstar Yacht Transport UK has recently shipped yachts to:

• China,
• India
• Brazil
• USA
• Russia
• Hong Kong
• The Maldives

Next to worldwide liner shipping Sevenstar Yacht Transport offers 120 sailings with a combined number of 500 port calls a year. Sevenstar has the capabilities to handle both the smallest of trailer boats, right up to some of the largest super yachts (52 metres, 640MT).


Sevenstar makes the difference by the hard work and experience of its employees, flexibility of services and competitive pricing. It’s staff understand the unique requirements of yacht owners offering customers a choice of transportation options to any worldwide destination.

Dartmouth Gains New Superyacht Ships Agency

Northern Star passing the Royal Dart Yacht Club 

Photo Credit: TheViewFromTheDartmouthOffice.com

First Class Nautical the Darmouth based superyacht services provider has been appointed as a superyacht specialist ships agency by the Dart Harbour and Navigation Authority.


Run by Ian Fenton and Martin Gwynn,  First Class Nautical Ltd  are aiming their services specifically at the needs of  Superyachts visiting the River Dart of which there are increasing number each year


Dartmouth harbour offers easy access at all states of the tide bring superyachts into one of the most beautiful harbours in the world.


Yachts can be left in relative peace on fore and aft moorings in the middle of the river adding to peace of mind.


Ian Fenton said, "Our knowledge of the Superyachting industry plus our local knowledge of suppliers of everything from fresh seafood to LSA equipment will be invaluable to Captains and their crews as they cater for their guests’ requirements. No matter how diverse the request (from mattresses to palm trees) we are able offer our services."


The picturesque scenery of the surrounding South Devon countryside and the Britannia Royal Naval College commands an impressive backdrop over the River Dart.


Martin Gwynn said, "Dartmouth is a charming harbour town with an illustrious history which boasts many appealing qualities such as the magnificent buildings set among narrow streets, friendly locals and welcoming harbour staff ensuring that Dart Harbour is fast becoming a very popular port of call for many of these vessels."


Many superyachts return, year after year with recent visits including:

• Eos
• Mayan Queen
• Nahlin
• Skat
• Le Grand Bleu
• Baton Rouge
• Leander

Nick Clarance (Deputy Harbour Master) explains that Dart Harbour is International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) compliant, as well as offering a full range of services to Yachts.


Yachts of any size are welcome, pilotage is compulsory for vessels over 50m (length over all) and tugs are available with prior notice.

Free berthing for superyachts at Vilanova Grand Marina - Barcelona

Last year Vilanova Grand Marina launched a campaign to attract superyachts coming back from the Caribbean in search of a facility that enabled them to prepare for the summer charter season.


The idea of offering superyachts days of free berthing during spring months proved so successful they the marina will repeat the process for the second consecutive year.


The Spring promotion for 2012 includes, as well as free dockage for several days, discounts on rental fees for longer stays, in line with last year’s campaign, which showed excellent results.


The management at Vilanova expects to register an improvement in occupancy from March to June in comparison to 2011 and reach its maximum level since it opened in April 2009.


General Manager Ignacio Erroz said: “We believe our marina is the perfect facility for superyachts to prepare for the charter season. We are confident we will see more activity this spring since we are starting to receive our first bookings for the season”.
                                                                
Vilanova Grand Marina in Barcelona opened in April 2009 and was the first marina exclusively conceived and designed for superyachts in the Mediterranean. 


It has 49 moorings to cater for yachts from 25 up to 100 metres in length and offers all necessary services to meet the requirements of captains, owners and crews, both concerning the boat and their own needs on land.


It integrates a port infrastructure and a technical area for specialist repair and refitting of large boats.


Its location, in the inner basin of Vilanova’s harbour just 20 minutes drive from Barcelona International Airport, represents strategic value for owners and captains.

Northrop and Johnson has announced a new Central Agency agreement with Ruea Yachts

Simon Turner (left) at the signing ceremony with Gareth Twist of Ruea Yachts 

Simon Turner, from the Singapore office of Northrop and Johnson has announced a new Central Agency agreement with Ruea Yachts.

“Over the last three years the interest in superyacht construction in Asia has been overwhelming” commented Turner, “and we are now delighted to be able to confidently offer a very high quality design and construction team that brings something new to the market.   Everyone expects there to be a price advantage in Asia, which there certainly is, but the driving force behind this project is to blend European technology, architecture and design with renowned Thai craftsmenship for an overall innovative project”

Ruea Yachts  the New Construction Division of Yacht Solutions in Thailand, builders of European designed custom superyachts has initially launched two designs, a 60 metre tri-deck motor yacht and a unique 75 metre long range displacement yacht with helicopter deck and under-deck heli garage.   Both yachts will be Lloyds Certified MCA Large Yacht Code LY2.

Turner added “these designs reflect the demand in the market for much larger, long range yachts yet at more manageable cost.   The designs will inspire those interested in a new build yacht to add their own ideas and creative flair to the process to deliver a yacht entirely to their own aspiration, yet backed by a highly professional international team”

Ruea Yachts works with naval architects BMT Nigel Gee and designers Design Unlimited in the UK.  Gareth Twist, managing director of Ruea Yachts, commented “  Through our sister company Yacht Solutions we have successfully completed many full scale refits and conversions since 2001 and we have gained trust and track record from our client projects.   This new global marketing approach will help put Ruea Yachts and Thailand as a superyacht building location firmly on the map.

Helix will Make History as the First new Feadship to arrive in Asia

Feadship is taking a brand-new superyacht to Asia for the first time this spring.

A dedicated tour by the 45-metre Helix will take in Hong Kong in March and the Hainan Rendezvous in early April before heading off to the Singapore boat show at the end of the month.


With the arrival of Helix in China, Feadship is set to embark on a new phase in superyacht history.


Helix will be on tour in Asia from 18 March through 29 April:


The yacht will be staying at the Gold Coast Marina in Hong Kong from March 18 to 31. She will then head for the third Hainan Rendezvous, which is being held at the Visun Royal Yacht Club from April 5 to 8.


The yacht will also attend the Singapore yacht show from April 27 to 29.


Helix will showcase to the public how Feadship is able to combine a timeless design and fine detailing with a classic bow to ensure the most comfortable of seagoing performances.


Invited guests and potential clients will also be given a personal tour of an interior that synthesises light-fabric-covered walls in mahogany wooden frames with contrasting materials and tasteful furniture. With four suites and a master stateroom on the main deck, all guests enjoy phenomenal views from their cabins.


Helix also has a wealth of outdoor entertainment and dining options, reflecting a beach house on the water philosophy.

Holland Jachtbouw launches Rainbow

First J-class yacht with hybrid propulsion

Holland Jachtbouw has launched the J-class yacht Rainbow at its yard in the Netherlands. Based upon the lines of the original America’s Cup winner in 1934, this spectacular 40-metre J features a high-end superyacht interior and a unique hybrid propulsion and power system inside a racing boat hull, all topped off by a grand prix racing deck and rig.


For her launch Rainbow was wheeled onto a barge and lifted by two cranes into the water.


Rainbow is currently being stepped and sea trials will commence in March as she gears up to complete in this summer’s regattas, including the J-class races in England.


The project’s naval architects were Dykstra & Partners, and this office also partnered with deVosdeVries design on the interior.


The original Rainbow was drawn by William Starling Burgess in the early 1930s and the vessel was scrapped in 1940.

This design has now been incorporated into an all-aluminium yacht that meets the J-class Association maximum performance rules. 

Gulf Craft Successfully Launches First Majesty 135

Gulf Craft recently launched its first hull in Majesty 135 series. With 3 decks and more than 41m in overall length, it is the largest ever built by the builder based in The United Arab Emirates

Built to order, the vessel is semi-customised with a focus on comfort-enhancing features like an on-board elevator and zero-speed stabilizers, as well as a spacious and richly decorated interior, featuring a bamboo veneer theme, gold-plated fittings and a splendor of marble and granite finishes throughout the vessel.

Interior design is provided by CDB Yacht Design, while structural design and naval architecture came from Gulf Craft’s engineering team, YD Design of Italy and BMT Engineering of the UK.

Initial sea-trials have already been conducted successfully with hand-over of the yacht to the customer scheduled for April.

Gulf Craft was founded in 1982 and now boats an annual production capacity of about 500 craft.

The manufacturer currently exports over 70% of its production to 40 countries selling Majesty Yachts, Oryx and Silvercraft brands.

Moonen has recently embarked on two new refit projects.

Moonen has recently embarked on two new refit projects.

SJS is being comprehensively upgraded technically and aesthetically while Aurora is being given a brand-new paint system.


SJS a Moonen 72 was launched originally as Lady Jalinka in 2001.


She was first yacht the yard designed in partnership with Rene van der Velden.


Now new owners brought her back home to the yard following a cruise to Scandinavia last summer and seek to customise her to their own requirements.


The exhaust system has been redesigned to further reduce sound levels. A complete new dashboard is being fitted along with a new navigation system, while new upholstery and leather for the sofa will ensure that the wheelhouse looks as good as she operates. The main lounge is being given a new ceiling, TV + lift and settees, while the three lower deck suites are being given a fresh individual colour scheme.

Meanwhile, the owners of Aurora a Moonen 84 have brought their dark-blue beauty - originally launched in 2004 - back to the yard for a complete new paint job from Klaver Yachtpainting.

Titanic reveals tantalizing truths on the eve of centenary

Larger than life and bold as can be, 100 years on and the story around sinking of the Titanic is still as fascinating as ever a new book entitled Amazing & Extraordinary Facts: Titanic explores the most famous maritime disaster of the 20th century with a collection of facts and stories that will astound and amaze.


A unique and entertaining collection of facts surrounding the 100th Anniversary of the voyage of the Titanic, the book is filled to the brim with unusual facts about the iconic ship. Find accounts from passengers and crew; strange tales of jinxes; stirring accounts of heroism and cowardice; spectacular box-office triumphs and flops; the discovery of the wreckage and some truly bizarre salvage attempts.


Maritime expert Stuart Robertson’s research into the depths of the famous ship includes a wide range of sources to produce fascinating facts and intriguing tales from of fateful trip.


Brief, accessible and entertaining, Amazing & Extraordinary Facts: Titanic is the perfect for dipping into. Titanic is the latest in the Amazing & Extraordinary Facts series, joining a collection of releases commemorating 2012's important events and ideas. March also sees the release of amazing and extraordinary Olympics. While amazing and extraordinary April will bring new titles on James Bond and the Steam Age.


Amazing & Extraordinary: Titanic (ISBN: 978446301944; RRP £9.99) is available from March 2012 from David & Charles Publisher.

Issue 26 of SuperYacht Business Magazine Out Now

Issue 26 of SuperYacht Business magazine is out now and provides another stonkingly good read for the industry.


A picture of Phillip Briand dominates the cover its a great image by Frances and the story inside accurately reflects the day long interview we had with Cookie and Philippe.


Other articles we penned include:

• Preparing for LY3
• The Specialists

Leading Contractors in the field of superyacht entertainment systems are the subject of this ever polar series that has run in every issue of SuperYacht Business save the first two.  As usual we interview six top specialists and learn the ins and the outs of this innovative sector.


Features by our colleagues include:

• A Round Up of Brazil
• Qatari Investment
• Refits in Mallorca
• Marinas in Spain
• The Forthcoming Challenges that MARPOL presents

To get  your very own subscription to SuperYacht Business magazine completely free of charge go online and register at: http://www.ibinews.com/ibinews/syb/index.htm

Hessen Yachts Sees Success Sponsoring Russian Sail Boat Team

Photo credit: Carlo Borlenghi

Dutch superyacht builder sponsor Team Synergy a team which won third place in the match races at the RC44 – Puerto Calero Cup, held in Lanzarote (Canary Islands) from February 8 to 12. 


Fourteen teams returned to Puerto Calero to start the 2012 RC44 Championship Tour, three months after the final of the RC44 World Championships. The battle for the Puerto Calero Cup, the first leg in this year’s circuit, was waged in open waters. The challenging racing course makes Lanzarote one of the best sea sailing venues in Southern Europe. A wide range of sailing conditions gave the teams a great challenge at their first appearance after the winter break. 


Russian owned Team Synergy, led by America’s Cup sailor Ed Baird won five out of six match races, placing third in the overall ranking. The team was less fortunate in the fleet races, where they ranked 13th due to a series of major break-downs. 


Valentin Zavadnikov, co-owner and captain of Team Synergy commented: “The team is well-prepared and ready to compete with the best sailors in the world – our performance in match racing proves it. Two days in the beginning of the fleet-racing were tough for us when we had an unprecedented amount of breakdowns. That certainly affected our res ults in this part of the regatta in a negative way. But our main goal is to have a harmonious and well-working team and we are close to achieving it”. 


Leonid Lebedev, co-owner of Team Synergy said: “Ed Baird is the highest-level professional and he fits into the team perfectly. But in fleet racing, where the owners are at the helm, he calls tactics conservatively to save us from the extreme situations. But there are no wins without risky moves. I'm sure, we'll find right rhythm in the nearest future and we are going to have better results”. 


The RC44 race calendar foresees four more exciting and challenging legs: 

• 28 March – 1 April                      Cascais – Portugal 
• 30 May – 3 June                          Gmunden – Austria 
• 18 – 22 July                                 Marstrand – Sweden 
• 3 – 7 October                               Rovinj – Croatia 

One Thousand Posts and Still Going Strong

It might not be world shattering news but at this end it has an importance of its own.  This is the 1000th posting on SuperYacht News since we began in May 2009.


Since then over there have been over 140,000 page views and that number is rising rapidly as our average monthly viewing figure closes 20,000.

• In 2009 we posted 198 stories
• In 2010 that number was 235
• In 2011 we had increased output to 488 stories for the year well over one every day
• To date in 2012 we have had 79 in the first 54 days of the year

We are on track for a record number of posts in 2012


Without you the reader there would be no point in doing it so to you all we say thank you.  Please come again and do not forget to comment.


Want to read Up to Date Superyacht news? Then visit http://saltecdog.blogspot.com


Got news that you want others to read? Then tell the @SaltySeadog on twitter

Fuel Additive - Costs a Bomb - Saves a Fortune

“Be very careful where you store that thing,” said the Captain to the Chief Engineer pointing to the blue, plastic, two and half gallon jerry can,  “and make sure you don’t spill any of it while your throwing it into the fuel tank.  That stuff costs $550 a gallon.” he added.


“Five fifty a gallon! What does it do Skip? Turn the diesel fuel into liquid gold?” asked the Chief.


“Nope” said the Captain, "but I am hoping that adding that to our fuel will improve our consumption by at least 14%,” he smiled.


They were talking about, Go2 a patented nanotechnology-based diesel fuel additive that, when added to diesel fuel, reduces fuel consumption while dramatically reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions and environmental pollutants


Developed by PhD materials scientists formerly of Eastman Kodak Company, it promises to

• Reduce Fuel Consumption by between 8 and 14%
• Reduce Particulate Matter (Soot) by up to 40%
• Reduce Unburned Hydrocarbons (Exhaust Odour) by up to 70%
• Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions by between 20 and 40%

One US gallon treats 4,000 gallons of diesel fuel but fourteen (14) percent improvements in fuel economy have been observed by Captains who say using it saved the owner more than US$35,000 in fuel over a year while still maintaining the same itinerary as in years gone by.


Others claim a visible reduction in soot emissions from engine and generator exhaust systems. As every superyacht Captain knows soot reduction not only enhances a guest’s experience, but also greatly reduces the time deckhands spend scrubbing soot build-up off the deck, hull, and transom.


Cheap?  No effective?  Apparently so!  At METS last year it won a DAME award for the Most Eco Friendly Product.


In Europe the product is marketed by Ecosuperyacht 
In the Americas it is Cerion Energy, Inc 

Eldon St. Remy The Face of Tourism 2011

Could Eldon St. Remy be the next Face of Tourism?


Bob Hathaway the Marina Manager at Marigot Bay in St Lucia has nominated Eldon St. Remy, the marina's Concierge for the title:
  
"Face of Tourism 2011" which an award made each year by The Visitor Channel in Saint Lucia.
  
He asked that the yachting community help make sure that Eldon wins this award by first viewing his video on:  Eldon's Video


Then voting for him on the Web site.  You will need to scroll to the bottom to do that!

Superyacht Rigs Subjected to the Ultimate Test

AJT 60 tonne horizontal tensile testing machine used by Marine Results

Superyacht rigging specialists Marine Results have invested in a horizontal tensile testing machine which will enable rigging, spar and lifting equipment to be ultimately and accurately tested to ensure that specifications of equipment manufactured and designed by the company are within safe working loads.

The machine tests loads up to 60 tonnes which include splices for halyards on the world’s largest superyachts, hydraulic cylinders such as:

• Vang
• Backstay
• Jammer loads
• Tender lifting equipment.

The testing machine, which is externally calibrated on an annual basis in accordance with ISO 7500-1:2004, works using destructive testing to bring the individual products under load and was custom designed by manufacturers AJT equipment for Marine Results’ use in the marine sector.  The machine is 11 metres long and operates using a pulling hydraulic force.  It is located in the company’s UK workshops.

“It is vitally important that we have an accurately calibrated testing machine,” comments Ben Wood of Marine Results.  “We are making up halyards for yachts of up 88 metres so the loads are extreme, and there is no room for error.  Having the facility with a machine of this size means we can provide a highly accurate testing service to our customers.”  The machine is currently testing a new Code Zero halyard and jammer arrangement for a newly built 66m luxury sailing yacht. 

The power pack from the load testing machine is also utilised for testing hydraulic systems and cylinders after servicing in the workshop.  The machine will shortly be modified to do cycle testing ie. repeated application and releasing to replicate the forces suffered by a yacht at sea.

Cowes celebrates Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with Boat & Leisure Festival 4th-5th June 2012

James Brooke (left), Festival Director, seals the Cowes Fest deal with Cowes Yacht Haven’s Managing Director, Jon Pridham. Photo: Hamo Thornycroft.

Organisers of the British Leisure Show have unveiled plans for an inspiring FREE to attend Boat & Leisure Festival in Cowes, Isle of Wight, over the Jubilee bank holiday on Monday 4th and Tuesday 5th June 2012.

The Festival is designed to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and will feature live music, hospitality and a great display of British boats and outdoor leisure activities.

Internationally recognised as the home of world yachting, Cowes has been selected to host the Boat and Leisure Festival for a two-day extravaganza over the extended Jubilee bank holiday period.

Amongst the attractions for visitors will be a display of some of the finest British built yachts and motorboats, an exclusive preview of teams racing in the 2013 Cowes to Monte-Carlo Powerboat Race, a parade of fashion, and a range of outdoor leisure activities and accessories for families to see, try and buy.


Yacht berths will be available in Cowes Yacht Haven marina for visiting yachts, and visitors will benefit from special mainland ferry rates from Red Funnel. 


James Brooke, Festival Director, commented, "We’re really excited to be celebrating such an historic occasion and delighted to be working closely with the Cowes community to make this memorable family event a great success."

Hodgdon Yachts to Deliver 4 new Superyacht Tenders into Dutch Shipyards

US based yacht builder Hodgdon Yachts must have scored a direct hit in the credibility and reliability stakes when they supplied tenders to the Superyacht Seven Seas. Because they are about to supply two more to the same shipyard for a vessel in build.


One will be from their Limo range the other will be of an Open style.  Both will be to a Michael Peters design and have an LOA of 10.5 metres.


Inside information also tells us that Hodgdon is also delivering to another significant Dutch superyacht yard 2 more tenders.  This time they are to an Andrew Winch design and will have an LOA of 8.5 metres.


You heard it here first!

SuperYacht Sinks - Crew of Eight Safe

Further to our story of yesterday here is more in formation about Yogi.

The video of the rescue operation can be viewed here.

In the early morning of Friday 17th February the 60 metre Superyacht Yogi foundered 20 miles off the coast of the Greek Island of Skyros

The 843 dwt yacht was on a voyage from Istanbul to the South of France when the disaster occurred

The yacht registered in Marseille France was under the command of French Captain Jean Louis Carrel.  He was sailing with a French crew of seven a number significantly less than the yachts normal complement during the summer season when typically she would carry a crew of 15

All eight men were winched to safety during a copybook helicopter rescue coordinated by the Greek Coastguard.

The yacht was delivered to her owners during the early part of 2011.  She had been delivered by the Turkish builder Proteksan Turquoise from their yard in Tuzla and took part in the MYBA charter yacht show in Genoa in May of that year.

Never intended to carry the designation: Discovery Yacht, Yogi nevertheless has the butch, purposeful, seaman-like looks and a definite spirit of expedition feel.

Her 60 metre hull is peppered with large side windows and oversized portholes that ensure natural light permeates the interior and while doing so, give the vessel a pleasing look to her profile

Yogi was the middle of three yachts to be launched in the spring of 2011. The first to emerge was Turquoise and within weeks of Yogi taking to the water the 74 metre Talisman C joined her sisters on the dock face at the shipyard.

Little is known publicly about the Superyachts sinking, early reports suggested she had suffered mechanical failure in the engine room while others spoke of an exhaust issue.

No one from the yachts crew or her managers were available for comment when asked for more details.

What is known is that the yacht had just departed the shipyard that built her having undergone warranty work and was being prepared for a season of summer chartering in the Mediterranean at €378,000 a week.

Specifications
LOA 60.2 metres
LWL 54.8 metres
Beam 9.4 metres
Draught 3.3 metres
Displacement 843 tonnes
Engine(s) 2 x Caterpillar 3512B
Power 2 x 1911 hp
Speed (max) 16 knots
Speed (cruise) 12 knots
Fuel capacity 100,000 litres
Range at 12 knots 5,000 nm
Owner and guests (number) 12
Crew (number) 15
Exterior styling Proteksan Turquoise Yachts / J G Vergès Design
Interior designer J G Vergès Design
Year of build 2011
Charter broker Burgess 
Charter rates From €357,000 pw

Superyacht SuRi to be Fitted with Glass Bottom Windows

Charter guests who sail aboard SuRi need not be divers to experience the wonders of the deep now that she is being fitted with huge underwater viewing ports


To be located in the centre of the new media room complete with home theatre, wrap around seating for 12 and bar, these Windows of the Sea give on board guests an unparalleled view of the oceans in which the yacht is sailing.


Special high intensity lights attracting all kinds of fish right up to the vessel illuminate the ocean below. This creates a natural, ever changing aquarium viewed from the comfortable and luxurious surroundings. 


To accommodate this the yacht is being refitted and lengthened with a 10 metre (36 foot) mid hull extension.


Due to be completed by May the refit includes the addition of; Two new full beam guest cabins, a much larger sunning and shade area, a new glass-enclosed guest lounge, two large exercise/lounging/meeting rooms on the hold deck and of course the media room with the one of a kind Window’s of the Sea.


The refit is taking place in San Francisco at Bay Ship & Yacht, we’ll be updating regularly on progress… watch this space.


For more information and charter enquiries contact 37South

Comparing Anode Types

Anode inspection is most easily performed when a boat is out of the water. 

When replacing anodes, owners should consider the type of water in which they boat to best protect their craft.  The potential environmental impacts of anode materials also come into play, as all anodes are not the same.


Anodes are needed to protect against galvanic corrosion.  Immersing two different metals in water can create a small electrical current.  This steadily corrodes the less noble metal, such as the aluminium outboard housing connected to a steel propellor, or the copper plumbing joined by steel fittings.  Saltwater, which is highly conductive, speeds this process.  So does any stray electrical current, as could be found in a marina or even aboard the owner's boat.


Sacrificial anodes, made from the least noble metals such as zinc, aluminum and magnesium, attract the electrical current.  Anodes are meant to be destroyed, so expensive equipment isn't.  They have been used for centuries.


The water in which a boat sits helps determine the best anode type to use.  Zinc and aluminium alloys work well in saltwater.  In brackish waters, aluminum is better, as zinc's efficiency decreases with reduced salinity.  Freshwater boats cannot use zinc at all – magnesium is the only metal alloy that will offer anode protection in freshwater.


Zinc is one of the most well-known anode materials, a readily available and inexpensive metal.  However, zinc anodes contain small amounts of cadmium, a heavy metal known to be toxic.  When the zinc anode corrodes away, small amounts of cadmium are also released into the water.  The environmental impact of zinc and cadmium is one issue the yacht owner should weigh when selecting anodes.


An alternative is aluminium alloy, which contains nothing environmentally threatening.  Aluminium anodes perform as well as, or better than, zinc.  They have better electro-chemical properties, are lighter, and have become competitively priced.


CMP Global is one US based supplier who offers a broad array of zinc, aluminum and magnesium anodes to protect boats in all types of water.  Its Martyr II aluminum and Martyr III magnesium anodes contain no cadmium.

Rum Jungle on the River Thames

Rum Jungle, Londons resident superyacht is offered for charter on the River Thames as a venue for special drinks and dinner parties.

She carries up to 40 guests for board and offsite meetings, she offers a fantastic way to travel to the O2, or take part in clay pigeon shooting days with Holland & Holland and cigar dinners.

• Available from piers of choice
• Spectacular views of London's floodlit waterside
• Trained crew at your disposal
• Fine dining and wines
• Full IT capability including wifi and screen 

Rum Jungle will be at the heart of Great Britain’s 2012 festivities including the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Pageant on the Thames and the Olympic Games. followed by Mediterranean cruising in Winter 2012/13.

The Sinking of the Superyacht Yogi

The superyacht Yogi has sunk in heavy weather off the Greek island of Skyros

Her crew of 8 were all were winched to safety by the Greek airforce.

The Greek coastguard reported that the rescue operation lasted roughly an hour and that no one was injured.

Reports on the Greek coastguard website said mechanical failure was to blame for the sinking, which happened in a north-westerly Force 8.

Yogi was the middle of three yachts to be launched by her Turkish builder in the spring of 2011. The first to emerge was Turquoise and within weeks of Yogi taking to the water the 74 metre Talisman C joined her sisters on the dock face at the Pendik shipyard.

The video of the rescue operation can be viewed here:

Professional Crew Needed as Movie Extras

Ever wanted to be part of a major Hollywood film? Well here’s your big chance!


Paul Greengrass (director of The Bourne Supremacy and the Bourne Ultimatum, Greenzone and United 93) is directing a new film titled Maersk Alabama based on the Somali pirate hijacking of the container ship Maersk Alabama on 8 April 2009 — and they are looking for seafarers to take part!


The film stars Tom Hanks as Captain Richard Phillips of the Maersk Alabama and Catherine Keener as Andrea Phillips (the captain's wife) and is being shot in Malta and Morocco between 5 March and 1 June 2012 (extras may not be needed the whole time).


If you are between 25 and 60 and would like to play one of the 20 crew members on the ship, send a picture of yourself, contact details, and a short summary about yourself (including qualifications and age) to hubbardcasting@gmail.com.


If you are able to email a video (not high tech, could be shot on a mobile phone) introducing yourself, speaking a bit about your life and career this would be even better.


All participants will be paid Equity rates and receive travel and accommodation costs. For more information contact Gemma Sykes, casting associate at Hubbard Casting on +44 (0) 207 631 4944 or email gemma@hubbardcasting.com.

ISS to Present YachtInfo at Antibes Yacht Show

The International Superyacht Society (ISS) is to joins forces with Professional Yachting’s Association (PYA) and the Worldwide Yachting Association (MYBA) to present the educational forum debut of YachtInfo outside the USA in Europe at the 2012 Antibes Yacht Show (AYS). 


The move comes after a decade of success in organising and presenting superyacht industry educational seminars during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.


As the AYS celebrates its fifth anniversary, ISS is joining forces with Show’s organisers, PYA and MYBA to host a series of seminars on 13 April 2012.


ISS Executive Director, Amy Halsted says, “It’s now become a strong brand and a solid source of timely industry information. We are encouraged by the participation of AYS, PYA and MYBA as we roll out the program on the international stage.”


YachtInfo has been held each year in parallel with the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show as a series of concurrent seminars and panel discussions presented throughout the day. The programme in Antibes will be focused at a Mediterranean audience.


“While other venues are luxury shows, the Antibes Yacht Show is an ‘intelligence’ show so we’re very pleased to have YachtInfo in our program to increase its intellectual value,” said AYS’s Director, Petra Malloier, “Our aim has always been to gear the Antibes Yacht Show for people who really know the industry.”


Now solidly on the industry calendar, the AYS draws exhibitors from 14 countries and has featured yachts from 15 to 70 metres LOA.

17th Century Monastery Opens as Hotel on the Amalfi Coast

An new and exclusive boutique hotel and luxury spa converted from a 17th century monastery is to open on the Amalfi Coast in May 2012.


Accessable from any of the anchorages near Positano the Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel and Spa opens in May 2012 suspended over the Bay of Salerno on Italy’s iconic Amalfi Coast.


The hotel, formerly a 17th Century monastery, will consist of 20 guest rooms and suites - all with sea views - a restaurant, a heated infinity pool, stunning landscaped gardens spread over five tiers, a historic herb garden and a private 12th Century Chapel.


There will also be a spectacular and unique spa that has been created within a labyrinth of historic monastic spaces and outdoor pavilions. 

The hotel stands near the quaint fishing village of Conca dei Marini and is located close to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello.


It is built directly into the side of the cliff with the floors connected by a glass front elevator allowing panoramic views of the hotel’s gardens and the sea.

The hotel is owned by American Bianca Sharma, who by chance caught sight of the property whilst travelling the area in 1999. She was immediately captivated, in part because the building offered one of the most dramatic locations in the world.


After acquiring the building she set about working closely with a local team of architects, engineers and historical authorities for over ten years to transform the former monastery into a luxury hotel and spa whilst maintaining the integrity of the building.

Given its heritage, the building has been respectfully restored to honour its roots and traditions.  Whilst the exterior and the interior maintain the asceticism of the property, the style within is offset by warm and inviting contemporary design.

Solemates Listed for Sale by Luxury Yacht Group

The 60 metre superyacht Solemates has been listed for sale by Rupert Connor at Luxury Yacht Group at Euro 67,000,000.


Conceived originally as Katie Sue II, hull number 13661 she became Solemates when Lürssen launched her from their yard in Bardenfeth during 2010.  Like her near sisters, Arkley and Linda Lou, her exterior design is by Espen Øino.


American designer Glade Johnson is responsible for the décor that must be play a part in her being one of the most successful charter yachts of her size.


Specifications
Length Overall:        60.00 m  196' 10"
Length at waterline: 51.77 m  169'  9"
Beam:         11.43 m   37'   6"
Draught:         3.50 m   11'   6"
Hull material: Steel
Superstructure material: Aluminium 
Displacement: 1070 tonnes
Maximum Speed:         15.5 knots
Cruising Speed:         12 knots
Range at 12 knots: 7.000 nm
Engines:                 2 x Caterpillar 3512 B
Power Output: 2 x 1.455 kW / 1.979 hp
Generator:         3 x Caterpillar C18, each 301 kW / 409hp
Emergency generator:        1 x Caterpillar C9, 189 kW I 256hp
Gear-boxes:         Reintjes, WAF 742 (2 x)
Propellers:         2 x Piening, fixed pitch propellers, 5 blades
Steering gears: 2 x Rolls Royce, Tenfjord, SR562 FOP
Bow thruster: Jastram, 40 F BU 3038 — 200kW
Fuel capacity: 150.000 litres
Fresh water capacity:         28,000 litres
Water-makers: 2x HEM 30/400 duplex, each 15.000 ltday
Sewage System:         DVZ — J-ZR-50 "Biomaster"
Stabilisers:         Quantum QC 1800, 2 fins, zero speed
Air conditioning:         Christoffers: single ducted system
Class:         Lloyd's +100A1, SSC Yacht Mono, LMC G6, UMS,
Compliancy:         MCA LY2
Builder:                 Lürssen Yachts
Year of Build: 2010
Designer Exterior: Espen Oeino Naval Architects
Designer Interior: Glade Johnson Design
Owner and Guest: 6 cabins for 12 persons
Crew:         8 cabins for up to 15 persons
Tenders:         2 x Vical Tender, 300hp inboard, diesel engines