London’s River Thames to be brought to life by thousands of boats of all shapes and sizes

The Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant will take place on Sunday the 3rd of June 2012, celebrating Her Majesty's 60 years of service. 
  
Up to a thousand boats will be on Londons River Thames in preparation for Her Majesty The Queen to lead the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant up the river. 


It will be one of the largest flotillas ever assembled on the river. 
  
The River Thames will be brought to life as rowed boats, working boats and pleasure vessels of all shapes and sizes will be beautifully dressed with streamers and Union flags, their crews and passengers turned out in their finest rigs. 
  
With the Olympic Games taking place in less than 2 months, berth places across the River Thames are also preparing for an inundation of the world’s largest superyachts, including, the 45m, award-winning charter yacht, Harle. 

The Royal Docks in London is one such location that superyachts will be headed to this summer. The Royal Docks are only 2-3 miles from the main Olympic sporting venues, so a berth here makes sure you really are in the midst of the action. The Excel Centre is adjacent to the Royal Docks and will host a variety of Olympic events including:

• Boxing
• Judo
• Fencing
• Taekwondo
• Table Tennis
• Weightlifting 
• Wrestling

This is a unique and incredible opportunity to watch an Olympic final and host an after-party on your yacht just minutes later. 
  
Royal Docks 2012 is now taking bookings for berths from 20m to 160m with limited availability. With only a few remaining berths, owners, captains and management companies are urged to make contact now to book their spot this summer.
  
Working with Royal Docks 2012, MGMT Concierge, an exclusive concierge for superyachts in London, will provide all the additional services and fulfill any requirements owners may need. Superyachts berthed at the Royal Docks will be provided with a dedicated full-time marina/berthing manager for on-site assistance, a secure wharf area with restricted public access, shore power, dedicated car parking and concierge services offering preferential ticketing. 

Cannot Sell the Yacht? Then Why Not Auction it?

Col. John N Giles, a yacht Broker and licensed auctioneer has used his past and present Yacht Broker experience to develop and offer a web site that assists Yacht Brokers with the sale of listings that have languished in their inventory because of unrealistic Seller’s or deals they cannot put together because of a trade-in that is unrealistically priced by the person who wants to trade towards your listing.


In today’s economic climate they have sellers who would like to expedite a sale to cut their losses in a slow economy and in many cases preserve their credit worthiness, but are unable to do so because they owe more than their vessel is worth.


Giles believes his past experience in the vessel liquidation industry qualifies him as a mitigator to work with owners and lenders in a short sale or refinance at a lower rate.


During the housing boom many home owners borrowed against the inflated equity of their houses and bought luxury items such as yachts and boats and are now looking to liquidate those toys.


"They are the ones," he says, "who you lose when they do not see any action on their vessel for sale.  You also lose the ones who have their vessel repossessed and taken from your listing and given to a Liquidator.  My site is designed to stop this from happening to you.  You can help your clients now, keep your listings and offer a financial solution without jeopardizing their valued credit rating."


Vessels sold through Yachtioneer.com are subject to a 3 ½% sales fee, a direct sale by the Broker/Dealer has no fee payable.  Co-listings supplied are subject to pre-agreed fees.


Assignment of vessels from either a Lender or Qualified Seller will be assigned as Co Brokerage to Associate Brokers in the Yachtioneer.com network.  Qualifications will apply.


The firm is not a brokerage nor is it a repossessor; it is a marketing site for vessels seriously for sale.  They are fully licensed as yacht and ship brokers in the State of Florida Lic# 1508 and Licensed Auctioneer Lic# AU 4320.  Yachtioneer.com is a registered USA Trademark.

Carbon Fibre Superyacht Launched from Picchiotti Shipyard

The Perini Navi Group have launched a 31.7m  carbon fibre sloop rigged superyacht. 


Designed by Nauta Yacht Design and built at the Picchiotti shipyard in La Spezia, Italy


She will be known as Xnoi (meaning “for us”).


Hull, superstructure, mast and boom are all made using carbon fibre.


The construction of this new yacht designed by Nauta Yacht Design’s Mario Pedol and Massimo Gino is intended to meet the changing needs of today’s yachting market and expands the range of Perini Navi Group products.


It demonstrates the Perini Navi Group’s ability to successfully undertake construction projects in carbon fibre. 


Xnoi will be available for charter this summer for up to 10 guests in 4 staterooms in the Mediterranean.

London set to be top destination for superyachts in 2012

London has recently been named in a Tripadvisor  poll as the best place to visit in the world.


Hosting the Olympic Games and celebrating the Royal Jubilee this year, superyachts never before seen in London will be heading to the UK capital to be part of the action.  London is quickly positioning itself to become the alternative destination for superyachts.


More and more superyachts are booking berths in London this year, the latest of which is the 45m,  charter yacht, Harle.  This summer, VIPs will be stepping onboard superyachts,berthed on the River Thames, to enjoy the ultimate Olympics experience. Rather than heading for the beaches of the Caribbean or the marinas of the Meditterrean, superyachts will be spending this summer in the most vibrant and exciting and city in the world. 
  
Royal Docks 2012, are offering superyacht berths in London, and are now taking bookings for berths from 20m to 160m with limited availability. The Royal Docks are only 2-3 miles from the main Olympic sporting venues, so a berth here will ensure superyachts really are in the midst of the action. 
  
Working with Royal Docks 2012, MGMT Concierge, an exclusive concierge for superyachts in London, will provide all the additional services and fulfil any requirements owners may need.  Three different services packages are being offered:

• Bronze
• Silver
• Gold

Bronze provides superyacht owners with the essential concierge service – VIP transport and restaurant bookings, Silver provides owners with their own personal consultant to make sure everything runs 
smoothly, while Gold provides everything Bronze and Silver does adding extra privileges, experiences and bespoke services. 

Mark Upton, Managing Director at MGMT Concierge said: “Whilst London is without doubt set to become firmly established as a popular superyacht destination in the future, it is this year, 2012, that will truly be the ultimate time to visit. Make sure you’re part of it.” 

The Yacht Club Costa Smeralda's Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta

The Yacht Club Costa Smeralda's superyacht racing season opens once again with Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta, the first of the major events  in the Mediterranean.


The fifth edition of the event, organized in Porto Cervo, Sardinia in collaboration with Boat International Media will host a fleet of spectacular sailing yachts from around the world from 4th to 9th June.


The crystalline waters of the archipelago of La Maddalena will once again be the setting for exciting competition between the 20 yachts enrolled which will be divided into Cruising and Performance divisions. Ones to watch will include regular participants such as Pier Luigi Loro Piana's My Song and Highland Fling - at 25 metres in length one of the smallest competing boats and current title holder in the Performance division.


Three monolithic sailing yachts will be sure to draw attention: the 45-metre Salperton, designed by Dubois and built by New Zealand shipyard Fitzroy, the 53.8 metre Parsifal III and Twizzle which, at 57.5 metres, is the largest of the fleet.

The regattas will showcase the work of renowned naval architects such as Dubois, Reichel-Pugh and German Frers in spectacular surroundings. The event, which year after year embodies elegance and meticulous attention to detail, will see vessels from top shipyards such as:

• Nautor's Swan
• Royal Huisman
• Perini Navi
• Southern Wind
• Fitzroy Yachts

All will be sailing through the islands off the coast of north-eastern Sardinia on courses set by the YCCS Race Committee.

The event begins officially with the Skippers' Briefing and Welcome Cocktail at the YCCS Clubhouse on Monday, 4th June, while racing is scheduled to take place from 5th to 9th June.


As always, a fun-filled schedule of social events has been organized for owners, guests and crews once they return to shore. Highlights include:

• Owners' Dinner on Wednesday 6th June at the YCCS
• Sunset Party on Friday 8th June at the Phi Beach club in Baia Sardinia
• Final prize giving which will take place in Piazza Azzurra, overlooking Porto Cervo Marina, on Saturday 9th June.

Sunrise Yachts Signs Contract for Second 63m Motor Yacht

The Antalya-based yacht builder Sunrise Yachts is to undertake a new major project for a European client introduced by YMG Yacht Management Group Switzerland.


The new project, based on the same hull as the 63m currently under construction at the shipyard, will be  nearly 1,400 gt. arguably the largest in its length category.


The Espen Øino designed mega yacht will be delivered in 2014. 


The interior design is by Bremen-based Focus Yacht Design. The scheduled build-time for Project #632 is 28 months. 


Sunrise Yachts based in the Free Trade Zone of Antalya in Turkey is super yacht yard founded in 2006 by German entrepreneur Herbert P. Baum and French-British yacht-builder Guillaume Roché.


Sunrise Yachts specializes in ocean-going superyachts in the 40m to 65m range. The company has created one of the largest and most modern yacht-building facilities in the Eastern Mediterranean and assembled an international team of designers, engineers and yacht-builders from Germany, Europe and Turkey.


The company currently has several yachts under construction:

• 45m sistership to Africa (design Studio Scanu; interiors by Franck Darnet),
• 63m mega yacht (design Espen Øino; interiors by Redman Whiteley Dixon)
• 32m Explorer (design Drettmann Yachts / Focus Yacht Design).  

Vicem Sells First 46 Metre Superyacht to British Businessman

Cold moulded mahogany built boats have been for decades the backbone at Vicem in Turkey. In 2008 the company began building in composite.


Now the first of their 46 metre superyachts has been sold for €27 million to a British client through Antoine Lereque at Fraser Yachts.


Conceived to be built on spec during the heady days of 2007 work on the yacht was subsequently slowed down.


“In hindsight 2008 was not a good year to begin the construction of our first big boat project without an owner,” concedes Bob Reimens the Dutch Canadian project manager brought in by Vicem to oversee her construction. “But to their great credit the company has never stopped work on her and she continues with a small but highly skilled work team.”


The company anticipate completing the yacht in time to display her at the Monaco Yacht Show this September.


The hull and superstructure were constructed using vacuum bagged epoxy, quadraxial and triaxial E-glass together with Corecell to ensure she is lightweight, economical and strong.


Power to push her along at 25 knots comes from twin MTU 16 valve 4000 M90 each producing 3650 hp. She will have a transatlantic range at 12 knots. 

Fastmount Appoints Distributor in Japan

Fastmount Ltd, the New Zealand designer and manufacturer of the award winning Fastmount removable panel mounting systems has strengthened their distribution in the commercial Marine and Architectural sectors. They have appointed Sugatsune as their distributor in Japan.


Established in 1930, Sugatsune is one of Japan’s leading manufacturers of furniture hardware. Sugatsune has over 400 employees, 6 sales offices, a state of the art manufacturing facility, a computer-controlled distribution center and 3 overseas branches. They export to over 47 countries and are distributors for world leading brands in the Japanese market.


Originally developed for the marine industry, we believe Fastmount has good potential in building industries such as architectural, interiors, space design and beyond.


Susatsune has a reputation for manufacturing and distributing high quality brands and products to the architectural, Marine and industrial sectors including disaster prevention. 

Watkins Superyachts Posts Storm Season Forecast.

In what has become a well received annual resource for the marine-insurance industry, Watkins Superyachts has produced another in their annual Pre Season Storm Forecasts


Issued for the Atlantic basin, Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean areas Watkins also issue daily monitoring bulletins to underwriters, insurance brokers, yacht Captains, fleet management and offshore energy interests.


From now until the end of the storm season, Watkins will be producing a daily synopsis of conditions across the tropical convergence zone – with more detailed and frequent updates of live storms.

Captain Adrian McCourt the Principle at Watkins Superyachts said, “ There are significant changes this year to the deciding factors for hurricane forecasting compared to last year. These are not always crystal clear and the El Nino argument differs between forecasters.”

“In simple terms, in the Pacific Ocean, the effect of El Nino is to produce higher wind shear over the Atlantic basin which stifles storm production. When this cycles and becomes reversed, it is known as La Nina which produces less upper level wind shear and thus encourages storm production.


“I avoid long range forecasts as far as possible having a seafarer’s healthy mistrust of armchair meteorologists who are never around when you are up to your knees in green water. Nevertheless, I’ll take a stab at this, taking a mean across the board of the forecasters I believe, and ignoring the catastrophists and incompetents who I don’t.


The Watkins Report suggests that there will be:

• Named storms 12
• Hurricanes 5
• Cat 3 and above 2/3

This years the allocated names are:
Alberto, Beryl, Chris, Debby (sic), Ernesto, Florence, Gordon, Helene, Isaac, Joyce, Kirk, Leslie, Michael, Nadine,  Oscar, Patty, Rafael, Sandy, Tony, Valerie, William 

Obviously, the less storms there are, then the less likelihood of impact in the Gulf of Mexico or landfalls in the United States, but this is not necessarily proportional and there is some consensus amongst the competent that  there are elevated areas for concern for the coming season for the north–central Gulf Coast (south east Texas to the Florida panhandle) and for southern Florida.


From now until the end of the storm season, Watkins will be producing a daily synopsis of conditions across the tropical convergence zone with more detailed and frequent updates of live storms.

Peri Yachts Lay off Workers Amid Uncertain Future

Peri Yachts the Turkish boatbuilder whose factory is inside the Free Trade Zone at Antalya in Turkey has laid off 200 workers and sent others on the payroll home. The sad news comes less than a year after the sudden death of Kemal Cambol the company's charismatic founder It is not all bad news because in the same Free Trade Zone Vicem Yachts have announced the sale of their 46 metre spec built yacht and Sunrise Yachts have announced the signing of a contract for a new build 63 metre yacht designed by Espen Oneio

Construction Proceeding at Moonen Shipyards on the 42-metre Sofia

Construction is proceeding apace at Moonen Shipyards in the Netherlands on the 42-metre luxury motoryacht Sofia. As is the case with any genuinely custom project, changes and additions are still being made to the design and facilities as the build progresses, meeting the owner's requirements in every respect. And as the largest Moonen to date takes shape, the value of partnering with best-in-class suppliers is also clear to see.

The 42-metre Sofia is one of three major builds currently under construction at Moonen alongside two refit projects. The other new superyachts are an explorer and a fast displacement vessel, emphasising the unrivalled diversity on offer at Moonen. The same goes for the wide range of skills and disciplines available in-house, which are supplemented by close relationships with many leading marine equipment supply companies. 


These partnerships are coming to the fore as the build of Sofia continues on schedule and within budget. The owner's close involvement in the project adds to the sense of excitement as key milestones are passed. Among the recent changes he has requested in this evolutionary process has been to upgrade the dashboard to an integrated foil bridge. Moonen is implementing this in cooperation with Tijssen Elektro. 


Meanwhile, the entertainment system is being engineered and installed, increasing in sophistication all the time to include a full Kaleidoscope video server with Samsung Smart LED TVs and multi-room control (including lighting, blinds and climate control) via i-Pad. And the yacht's atrium will be made using a custom piece of Concetto art supplied by Ceaser Stone in Israel. 

An earlier change to the specs for Sofia saw the owner decide to extend the yacht by a further four feet in order that she could carry a submarine from U-boatworx capable of seating one captain and two passengers instead of the originally intended two in total.


Sea trials on this submarine will begin in Malta in mid-May while back in Holland the dedicated launch crane is being pre-assembled and tested before final installation onboard the yacht.

Founder of Numarine Regains Control of his Company

Omer Malaz the founder of Numarine Performance Yachts is again the sole owner of his company following a four year flirtation with the Abraaj Group of Dubai.


Without doubt Abraaj added additional brand values and as a joint venture partner enabled the boat builder to pass through the economic recession with few negative impacts.


Mr Malaz however has sought and now succeeded in becoming the sole owner of the yard leaving him clear to re establish his dream design team of Tommasso Spadolini, Can Yalman and Umberto Tagliavini who worked so well with him on new yacht projects in the past.  


Malaz has strong development ideas with a worldwide expansion plan aimed at the most important emerging markets in Brazil, Mexico, Venezuela, Lebanon, Hong Kong and the rest of the Far East. 


Omer Malaz and his family made money from the Malazlar Match Co, Turkey's second largest mach manufacturer and the financial backing from the family is now stronger than ever at a time when Turkey’s economy is by comparison to the rest of the world, booming.

Marketing policies are even stronger with Pinar Coskuner Genc looking after marketing and sales matters while Ali Tanir (previously with Vicem Yachts) becomes the new communication adviser. 


NuMarine is planning to attend major boat shows such as Cannes, Fort Lauderdale and Miami in addition to local important shows such as Rio, Beirut, Hong Kong and Jeddah. 


A worldwide advertising campaign will follow main launches of the yard during the 2012-2013.

The 30m Benetti Tradition motor yacht Quid Pro Quo signs up for Carbon Offsetting

Quid Pro Quo, the 30m Benetti Tradition motor yacht featured at the 2012 MYBA Charter Show in Genoa, has introduced a policy of carbon offsetting her fuel. With her first carbon offset already in place, the carbon footprint of the yacht’s engines will be balanced by equivalent emissions reductions from verified green energy projects.

Robert Frost, the yachts Captain commented: “The future of our planet and her preservation should be a high priority to every human being.”

Yacht Carbon Offset’s Managing Director Mark Robinson said: “For an active charter yacht, it is a practical example of how environmental standards can be enhanced in a meaningful yet convenient way.”

Yacht Carbon Offset provides a fully-documented service for those that own and enjoy the world’s leading superyachts and has Lloyds Register Quality Assurance Certification.

Porto Portals Nautical Weekend 26th to 28th May

With just a few days to go to until the Portals Nautical Weekend takes place in Mallorca, the organisers have confirmed the full program of events and activities that will accompany the public display of 60 boats, featuring all of the major brands, both new and used, including sail and motor yachts from 9 to 40 metres.
These include leading yacht builds from;

• Fairline
• Oyster
• Azimut
• Beneteau
• Bavaria
• Riva
• Princess
• San Lorenzo
• Sunseeker 

There will also be a good selection of pre owned motor and sail boats from top local and international brokers such as Sunbird, Baxter Marine, Marivent Yachts, Drettmann and Yacht Moments.


This is the first time ever that such a large and varied display of yachts and nautical products combined with various lifestyle attractions has been staged in Mallorca, which is completely open to the public…and with no entry fees.

Video of First Royal Falcon Fleet 135 from Porche Design

This is a You Tube Video of the First Royal Falcon Fleet 135 from Porche Design
The 41 metre yacht is being built in Sweden in conjunction with Kockums AB at their facilities in Muskö but little other information seems to be available.


See Web sites claiming to know more here


Greenline Yacht Interiors are under contract to complete the interiors of eight RFF135, said to be the start of a "visionary superyacht fleet programme".



Technical specifications issued by Incat Crowther:

• Length Overall: 41.40 m
• Length Waterline: 35.70 m
• Beam: 12.50 m
• Fuel: 52 000 litres
• Fresh Water: 5 000 litres
• Main Engines: 2 x MTU 16V4000M93L
• Installed Power: 2 x 3440 kW
• Propulsion: 2 x MJP 850 waterjets
• Generators: 2 x Kohler 150 EFOZD 150kW 50Hz
• Construction Material: Marine Grade Aluminium

Buy A Berth In Malta Before the Price Increases by 15%

Kurt Fraser Sales & Marketing Director Camper & Nicholsons Marinas Ltd has told us that he plans to rise the prices of dockage in Grand Harbour Marina Malta.

High demand for berths at Grand Harbour in Malta has led to annual increases in rental tariffs, averaging 13% per annum since 2007. This average increases are the same on both pontoon berths 10m to 25m and super yacht berths of 30m to 100m. Given the many advantages of Malta, it is likely that rates will continue to increase at similar levels in the future.


The marina's success is largely due to its ideal location in the centre of the Mediterranean within three days cruising to the principle yachting centres of France, the Balearics, Croatia, the Greek Islands and Turkey.


This, combined with the ease of access, english language, stable yacht friendly government, technical services, and beautiful historic environment make Malta an attractive homeport option for both yacht owners and crews.


Malta offers exceptional value with super yacht berths currently sold at between €2,050 (30m to 60m) and €2,250 (60m to 100m). Due to the limited number of berths available at many sizes and an increase in super yacht visits and occupancy, Grand Harbour Marina will be increasing its berth purchase prices as of July 1, 2013. Exact figures have not yet been released, but the increase will be 15% or more.

Even with the price increase, Malta will remain a highly strategic location offering yacht owners outstanding value as compared to many popular homeport alternatives that range from 3,500 - 6,500 per square metre, or more in the most popular of locations. So the price increase is bringing the marina into more competitive territory as compared to marinas of comparable quality.


Competitive pricing compared to other marinas in the marina aside, GHM is experiencing scarcity at popular sizes of berths, despite a conservative number of sales through the downturn. 2011 saw a 30m and 46m berth sold at GHM and inventory limited at popular sizes includes only 2 remaining 30m, 2 remaining 35m, 2 70m and 1 100m. With the increase in marina visits and occupancy, the pressure for achieving sales is reduced. Prices remain highly competitive but are more inline with the market - and given the number of new builds being delivered soon, Fraser feels confident that interest will increase.

Yacht Designers Newcruise Reorganise Management Structure

German based yacht designers Newcruise have reorganised their management structure following the resignation of Frank Neubelt, long-time Co-CEO and partner, who has resigned from his position as CEO


From now on the Hamburg based firm will be under sole management of the general manager Roland Krueger.


Unaffected by this reorganisation the team of 12 specialists will continue to focus on the comprehensive services of exterior and interior design for superyachts

The 2012 Asia Boating Awards Winners

Winners of the Asia Boating Awards, organised by Asia-Pacific Boating and China Boating are chosen by an independent panel of industry experts familiar with the yachting scene of Asia and internationally.   We are immensely proud that we are included in that panel of Judges.


A plurality of votes determines the winners from a shortlist voted on by readers of Asia-Pacific Boating and China Boating magazines.


Then Asian yacht builders and international yacht brands mingle with Hong Kong and China’s elite in a glamorous occasion to mark the end of the Asia Boat Show Season

The 8th Asia Boating Awards were held this year at the prestigious Grand Hyatt Hotel Ballroom in Hong Kong, offered big wins to the best of the best in the Asian luxury yachting scene. 

The Asia Boating Awards, the most acknowledged awards in the Asian marine industry, is a night that Asia-based yacht builders can bask in the limelight and enjoy some well-deserved attention. Facing up to tough international competition, McConaghy’s Boats, which recently launched the fantastic and fully-custom yacht Adastra from its China yard, took home the prize for Best Yacht Design of the Year, against a field of competitors that included some of the best names in the business. 

Hong Kong/South China superyacht builder Kingship and Taiwan yacht builder Horizon were recognised by the panel of judges as the best Asian yacht builders in their categories. For the first-ever awarded prize for Best Asia Built Yacht, the winner was IAG Yachts of Zhuhai for their Italian-styled Electra 100’. 

Dutch brands dominated the international large yacht categories, with Feadship and Heesen taking the awards this year for best custom and best semi-custom yachts. UK builder Sunseeker took home the prize for its new 28-metre yacht in the Best Production Motor Yacht Category (24m-40m), which features new wraparound windows in a big departure from the traditional Sunseeker look. 

Singapore’s One°15 Marina Club walked off with Best Asian Marina of the Year, beating tough competition from the new Serenity Marina in Sanya, China. Locally, the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club received double honours, first as Best Asian Yacht Club of the Year, and for its staging of the China Coast Regatta, which won for Best Asian Regatta of the Year.

In addition to the many industry VIPs in attendance at the black tie gala dinner, there were numerous guests of honour at the event

The Winners of the 2012 Asia Boating Awards

• Best Asian Yacht Builder (30m and up) Kingship, Hong Kong
• Best Asian Yacht Builder (15m-30m) Horizon, Taiwan
• Best Asian Built Yacht IAG Yachts, Electra 100', China
• Best Custom Built Yacht Feadship, Musashi, The Netherlands
• Best Semi Custom Built Yacht (30m and up)
• Heesen Yachts, Satori, The Netherlands
• Best Production Motor Yacht (24m-40m) Sunseeker, Sunseeker 28 Metre, UK
• Best Production Motor Yacht (15m-24m) Riva, 75’ Venere Super, Italy
• Best Production Sailing Yacht (15m-30m) Oyster Marine Ltd, Oyster 625, UK
• Best Production Sailing Yacht (up to 15m) Beneteau, Oceanis 48, France
• Asian Marina of the Year ONE°15 Marina Club, Singapore
• Asian Yacht Club of the Year Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, Hong Kong
• Asian Regatta of the Year China Coast Regatta
• Asia-based Charter Yacht of the Year Picchiotti Vitruvius Exuma 50m, Italy
• Personality of the Year Y P Loke, Singapore
• Print Ad of the Year Lürssen
• Best Yacht Design of the Year McConaghy Boats, Adastra, China
• Best Yacht Designer in Asia of the Year Axis Yacht Design Group, Italy
• Best Asia-based Charter Company Simpson Marine, Hong Kong
• Best Brand Presence in Asia Azimut-Benetti, Italy

SuperYacht Business Magazine Seeks New Editor

As a follow up to our story concerning the departure of Dennis O'Neill comes news form IPC themselves who have posted a recruitment advertisement internally.



Based in the IPC Media Croydon office, this role is varied, fast paced and a great opportunity for someone to make their mark on SuperYacht Business and European Boat Builder both well established marine titles.


The ideal candidate will:

• Have extensive journalism experience
• Have a knowledge of the marine industry
• Know how to manage individuals, freelancers and contributors
• Have a relevant network
• Act as a brand ambassador at all times including key external events
• Be passionate about the brands and know what the audience want

This role is based in IPC’s Croydon office, but requires travel both in the UK and abroad.


To apply please send your covering letter stating salary expectations and CV to Resourcing Manager Luci Baldwin luci_baldwin@ipcmedia.com no later than Thursday 24th May 2012.


Sounds as if we have the job already because we tick every box but presumably they also seek someone who has been an editor beforehand!


Now to salary expectations?  How do you correctly spell sicks hundred fowsands?

They Have Blown the Dust off Royal Yacht Plans Yet Again

Replacing the Royal Yacht Britannia is a forever-controversial subject and has seen enthusiasm, pledges and disapprovals at every level of government and across the public spectrum.  In the history of the 83 Royal yachts, no new one has caused such a degree of controversy since King Charles II acquired his Jachtship, the first Royal Yacht, from the Dutch in 1660.


Dusting off plans and timed to coincide with the Queens Jubilee celebrations yet another attempt is being made to encourage the building of a replacement ‘Royal Yacht’ 


Yachtsman and retired advertising executive Ian Maiden has put this one on the table.  He believes that times have changed and financing a new yacht from the public purse is currently definitely not an option. This is despite the fact that this ship’s prime purpose would be that of a Commonwealth Flagship, touring the world in support of Commonwealth trade and enterprise, rather than a holiday hideaway for British Royals.

So Maiden has sided with the enthusiasts, including multi millionaire peer Lord Ashcroft who is reported to own both the 50 metre Hakvoort Lady M and the 46 metre Atlantic Goose.

Together they believe that a Commonwealth Flagship would bring huge benefits to Commonwealth countries, many of them still developing economically, in helping to trade and exhibit their exports, and for training and education.


Lord Ashcroft has, according to the Web site, already pledged £5 million to a charitable trust that could lead the way in replacing Britannia which was decommissioned in 1997.

To promote the cause a new website has been launched at www.commonwealthflagship.com.  It sets out to illustrate the concept and to encourage industrial giants and individuals to pledge their financial support to the project.

The new ship has been elegantly yet conventionally styled, with something of the feel of the last Britannia.  It comes from the drawing board of the late and internationally acclaimed yacht designer Jon Bannenberg who completed the designs before he died in 2002.  The ship is 127m long and would be crewed by 80 Commonwealth members.


The Commonwealth Flagship website invites opinions and support.  “I am now inviting someone to pick up the baton and run with it and carry the project forward,” concludes Maiden.

Editor of SuperYacht Business Steps Down

Dennis O’Neill the editor of SuperYacht Business magazine is to swap superyachts for mini yachts as he moves away from the superyacht Industry’s favourite B2B magazine and joins the staff of Yachting Monthly.


His departure will leave a gaping hole at the top of this informative bi monthly and the hunt is on internally within IPC for his replacement.  Applicants for the job from outside the firm will no doubt be accepted.


We both write on a freelance basis for the magazine and believe it to be one of the better titles in the market place.  We look forward to working with whoever is appointed to take the title forward.



Superyacht Business is a business-to-business title from the IPC Marine Group, the same company that publishes the renowned International Boat Industry (IBI) and European Boatbuilder magazines. 


Drawing on over 40 years’ experience of marine B2B publishing, Superyacht Business provides highly qualified analysis and comment on the market as well as revealing how the leading players in the business are responding to today’s challenges.


It covers the news and developments from designers, stylists, boatbuilders, project managers, surveyors, equipment manufacturers and service providers — the full spectrum.  It analyses what’s going on in the yacht broker, yacht charter and yacht management areas, review new products, applications and techniques, plus keep an eye on the most interesting new-build, refit and conversion projects from concept to launch.


It previews and reviews the important shows, and keeps abreast of certification and classification issues, and legislative changes that impact the industry on multiple levels.


In every issue it features The Specialists and a face to face interview with an industry leader and we are proud to write both. It also features new-build updates from key countries around the world, keeping you in touch with what’s going on in the same way as IBI’s renowned Business Reports.


Superyacht Business is required reading for those who need to know what’s going on in a rapidly expanding industry that spans most of the globe.


That means those of you involved with the design, building, maintenance and operation of professionally crewed yachts, wherever you may be.

Camper & Nicholsons Marinas Plan to Sell Off Mid Sized Berths in Grand Harbour Marina

Kurt Fraser Sales & Marketing Director Camper & Nicholsons Marinas Ltd has told us that Grand Harbour Marina, will shortly for the first time since it opened, release small to mid-size berths (10m to 25m) for sale on 30-year leases.


They will do so first to their existing berth holders and then alert those on waiting list which are said to number over 250 vessels.


The change will not only enable berth holders to insulate themselves from continually rising rental tariffs and personally benefit from the capital appreciation of the value of their berths, it will undoubtably be a good cash revenue earner for the company who are aggressively seeking marina developments around the globe.

Pegaso is No Ordinary Superyacht

It matters not if the decks are are of teak or the furniture is made from Wenge, Pegaso is much much more than a mere superyacht she is a research vessel with a mission that just happens to offer would be charter guests luxury afloat.


Catch a glimpse of one of the most extra ordinary superyachts of the decade

Golden Fleet Chooses Porto Montenegro as New Base

The Golden Fleet consisting of three super yachts and a sea plane is to up sticks and move its base from Nice in the South of France to new dockage space inside Porto Montenegro.


Captain Mike Hitch Marine Director of the Golden Fleet said, “I am delighted to be able to call Porto Montenegro our new ‘home’. Not only is it an extremely impressive full service superyacht facility that is continually growing, it is also located in the Bay of Kotor, one of the most protected and beautiful areas in the Mediterranean.” 

The Golden Fleet consist of:
Golden Odyssey, 80 metres
Golden Shadow, 67 metres and its Cessna sea plane, Golden Eye 
Golden Osprey, 30 metres

“With the illustrious Golden Fleet now based at Porto Montenegro, we are firmly positioned as one of the Mediterranean’s leading luxury yacht homeports. Along with the doubling of our marina capacity, our 5-star Regent hotel, and our new refit facility, 2012 is on course to be our best year ever,” says Oliver Corlette, Managing Director of Porto Montenegro. 

Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust appointed Official Race Charity For Round the Island Race

Standard entry to the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race does not close until midnight on 2nd June but already the figure currently stands at 1,044.


Among those entering will be those belonging to the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust who for the second year running have been appointed as the race Official Race Charity


The Trust has entered four boats, providing 25 young people in recovery from cancer the opportunity to compete in the Race. They will be joined for the Race by Trust Patron, Ellen MacArthur along with Race first-timer, DJ Rob da Bank. Ellen MacArthur will be racing with seven of the Trust’s young people on the elegant 90ft sloop Dark Star, generously lent to the Trust for the Race by owner Ed Stacey through Dream Sailing.


Ellen explains, "Everyone at the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is thrilled that the owner of Dark Star has welcomed us on board for the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race. This will be a completely different experience for the young people in recovery from cancer. I hope through all the weekend's fundraising initiatives that we can help many more young people in their recovery from the illness in the future.”


Last year the Trust raised an incredible £57,547 through their involvement as the Official Charity of the Round the Island Race.


Competitors thinking of fundraising for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust can do so in a number of ways this year.


They can enter a boat in the ‘Charity Challenge’. The ISCRS and IRC rated entries that are fastest on corrected time and raise a minimum of £250 will receive an additional £1,000 donation, courtesy of J.P. Morgan Asset Management, for their chosen charity.   


They can buy a virtual mile of the Race through the ‘Buy a Mile’. Choose which of the incredible young people racing you would like to support, otherwise they can buy Ellen MacArthur or D.J. Rob da Bank’s virtual miles from as little as £10. 


The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust takes young people aged 8 – 24, who are recovering from cancer and other serious illness on sailing trips throughout the summer.  These trips can rebuild the confidence often lost through long periods in hospital, giving the young people a chance to test themselves in a safe and supportive environment.


The Radio 1 DJ and Bestival organiser, Rob da Bank, will be joining the Trust’s crew aboard Moonspray, a GibSea 44.  Joining Rob will be the Isle of Wight Radio breakfast presenter Paul Topping, who will broadcast live from the boat throughout the Race.  


J.P. Morgan employees from Bournemouth have their own unique way of fundraising for the Trust. For the sixth year, they will be competing in their very own Round the Island Race using pedal power.  Last year the cyclists raised an incredible £18,622 pedalling the 62 miles around the Island. Their challenge is to beat the fastest yacht to the finish line. 


Other exciting ways to get involved with the Trust in the Race Village this year include a Sports Village, where visitors can have a go with the rowing machine, javelin, badminton and a Wii station.


The easiest way to add to the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust’s fundraising total is through ‘Text to Donate’, just text EMCT00 £5 to 70070. Every penny goes straight to the Trust.

Latest Improvements in Maritime Video Analytics

Automatic sea Vision ASV supplies super yachts with software that provides complete control of the yacht’s perimeter at all time and automatically alerts the captain and crew of any potential dangers.


See the video here 


It offers full perimeter control to protect passengers and crew using infrared thermal images to automatically detect and track all objects around the yacht to ensure maximum safety and security.


At sea the software is consistently looking for dangerous threats ahead and warning the captain and crew of objects which could be potentially dangerous.


The latest in optronic technology it is a technological leap forward from existing detection systems (radar, AIS transporters, etc.) because it is the only solution which combines both automatic detection and image analysis.


This software has very low alarm rate, and is the ultimate safety and security equipment on board; which also gives you essential navigational aid.

The Ultimate Book of Decorative Knots

Every sailor knows that knot-tying is an invaluable practical skill. But many knots are also very beautiful. In this comprehensive volume, author and expert Lindsey Philpott shares his knowledge of this ancient art, providing detailed step-by-step instructions for hundreds of decorative knots, accompanied by explanatory photographs to show exactly how to tie each knot and achieve the desired effect.


The Ultimate Book of Decorative Knots is the definitive sourcebook, both for novices just beginning to experiment with the simple pleasures of knot and ropework, and for more experienced knotters who are looking to expand their repertoire and want to learn from the best.


Whether it’s a square knot, round knot, braid or sinnet, readers will discover all the materials, methods, measurements and tools needed to create their very own elegant knotwork and beautiful objects.


Lindsey Philpott is a founder and immediate past president of the Pacific Americas Branch of the International Guild of Knot Tyers. He is a rigger and teacher of traditional and contemporary marlinespike seamanship and provides forensic knot analyses in criminal cases.



Authored by Lindsey Philpott
Published by Adlard Coles Nautical
Hardback - £25.00
9781408157268

Now You Can Identify Who Owns What Superyacht

Keeping up with who owns what when it comes to superyachts can be difficult.  Its not that we want to publicise the information because unless the information is common knowledge we do not do so, but nevertheless as experts its good to stay in touch with every aspect of the industry.


One new Web site that might make things easier is www.Superyachtfan.com

On it you will find information about the largest superyachts in the world and the wealthy who own them.


The site owners say it is constantly updated with the latest information about superyachts and superyacht owners and they ask that if you have any information or update about a superyacht or it’s owner, you should send them an e-mail.

The site carries a disclaimer which says: The details about superyacht ownership as stated on this site are mostly based on rumors. In almost no case actual yacht ownership by the private individual mentioned can be proofed. 


It adds: This site is for entertainment purposes only.

MYBA President Attacks Charter Crew Gratuity Clause

The latest edition of On Board magazine is available at marinas and chandleries in the Mediterranean.  It is a free magazine aimed at crews of superyachts in the region and because it a locally produced magazine is vastly more relevant than other crew magazines produced outside France and ported in.


Yes we write for it but then again we write for most of the better yachting magazines around the world but that is not the point of this posting.


What caught our eye was an article penned by the highly respected yacht broker Toby Maclaurin who has used the magazines opinion page to have a pop at crew gratuities.


What makes this strange is that Toby is as swell as being a top broker for Ocean Independence the current President of MYBA.


And while MYBA has a policy of enforcing crew gratuities Mr Maclaurin seems to suggest that because a yacht has not got a charter it is because of the clause in a contract for a charter of €600,000 per week yacht.


That clause read: "A crew gratuity of 15-20% of the charter fee is customary and it is aimed at the charterers discretion."


The question I have is who is right Mr M or the MYBA the body for which he is the President.  What are your views?