Saturday, December 15, 2012

Feadship 78 mt Venus



The 78mt yacht Venus launched by Feadship is a beautiful luxury vessel built under hull number 684 in the Netherlands. Superyacht Venus was self-designed by late Steve Jobs in collaboration with Philippe Starck, with beautiful, clean lines and lightweight aluminium exterior, resulting in a much lighter vessel if compared to other yachts of her size.

"In April 2007, Steve Jobs asked Philippe Starck to design a boat, of approx 80 meters with roughly 6 rooms as he had been very impressed by the Virtual sailing yacht Starck had designed several years before.." During their 1st meeting, it was more than clear, that the two shared the same philosophy on the elegance of minimum.

On their 2nd meeting, Starck brought Steve the mock up model of the yacht he designed inside out with all the finished plans. "Steve was more than happy and approved the whole. The project never changed during the process of 5 years dedicated to a rigorous work on details, driven by the famous eye and genius of Steve Jobs.

The design work took place between Steve Jobs and Philippe Starck and has been fantastically executed by Feadship. "Philippe Starck is proud of Venus as he feels it reflects Steve Jobs expectation and vision”.

Little information has emerged about luxury yacht Venus, however as mentioned in the Steve Job’s Biography, written by Walter Isaacson (published by Simon & Schuster in 2011), the vessel has been under development since 2009. Below is an excerpt from the book:

“As expected, the planned yacht was sleek and minimalist. The teak decks were perfectly flat and unblemished by any accoutrements. As at an Apple store, the cabin windows were large panes, almost floor to ceiling, and the main living area was designed to have walls of glass that were forty feet long and ten feet high. He had gotten the chief engineer of the Apple stores to design a special glass that was able to provide structural support. By then the boat was under construction by the Dutch custom yacht builders Feadship, but Jobs was still fiddling with the design. “I know that it’s possible I will die and leave Laurene with a half-built boat,” he said. “But I have to keep going on it. If I don’t, it’s an admission that I’m about to die.”

Venus yacht was named after the Roman goddess whose functions included love, beauty, fertility, prosperity and victory.

Feadship

( www.feadship.com )

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Oceanco 88.5 mt Nirvana



Sleek superyacht Nirvana recently made her grand debut at the 2012 edition of the Monaco Yacht Show. Delivered last April, she has already spent her first summer season cruising the Mediterranean, before showing off her curvy, contemporary features at the MYS. At 88.5 metres LOA, Nirvana is the largest in a spectacular line of superyachts built by esteemed Dutch shipyard Oceanco, placing her in the company of resounding names such as Sunrays, Seven Seas and the ever legendary Alfa Nero. This instantly places her among the elite of superyachts cruising the world today, building on a solid tradition of design and naval architecture, yet with her bow aimed firmly at the future of yachting.

Designed to perfection by Sam Sorgiovanni and meeting her owner's specific requirements, Nirvana undoubtedly is one of the very few, truly majestic vessels that really put the “super” in superyacht. She combines extraordinarily voluminous interiors with extensively spacious deck spaces, in an exquisite and elegant, contemporary style. She offers an impressive six decks with a large collection of features, with the grand master suite measuring a dazzling 150 square metres as just one example of her high standards. It would be easy to merely sum up an ongoing list of amenities that can be discovered onboard, but what is arguably her most exciting aspect, is the way each party involved in her development has been able to add something unique and special to Nirvana, resulting in a superyacht that feels grand and elegant, yet boasts a subtle and friendly personality.

Nirvana's exterior consist of smooth, contemporary lines, all gently curved and well balanced. With a navy blue hull, white superstructure and the characteristic Mahogany-look line flowing from bow to stern, she radiates a refined and modern look while remaining a stately posture. Upon arriving onboard, via the large swimming platform or passerelle, one is welcomed upon a vastly spacious aft deck with an impressive 7.5 metre counterflow pool and large adjacent aft sun pads as main features.

While this area impresses with its size, vista views and pleasant lounge-like atmosphere, the pool floor can be raised to deck level to create a vast deck space for a wide variety of entertaining. Fore, there is a large bar and pantry area, which combines the aft deck with the main saloon to form one spacious area for day-to-night lounging, entertaining and relaxing.

The main saloon has a big lounge area and a formal dining room, separated by an exquisite vivarium housing various exotic species such as water dragons, bearded lizards and a chameleon. This room's design gives an accurate first impression of the elegance that can be enjoyed throughout Nirvana's decks. The design is warm and modern, pleasantly emphasising the natural colours and textures of the luxury materials applied.

The main lounge offers two symmetrically placed arrangements, with a collection of big, modern armchairs and sofas. Ample natural light compliments the warm colour scheme and natural materials, making the saloon a true oasis of serene comfort. Fore, the formal dining room has a distinctly natural feel with characteristic leaf-patterned carpeting in light green tints, setting a vibrant tone for this spacious area formal dining room.

Exquisitely textured, large silver objects function as eye-catching pieces of art. The large dining table comfortably seats a company of 12 in a fresh green, cream and brown coloured, nature-inspired ambiance that feels organic and modern.

Aside from the lush master suite, all of Nirvana's guest cabins can be found on the fore main deck, offering accommodation for up to 12 guests. With four spacious doubles and sumptuous VIP quarters fore, obviously all fitted with luxurious large en suites including elegant, freestanding tubs, every guests is accommodated in elegant, delicately designed and spacious private quarters. Each stateroom is flooded with natural light courtesy of the large floor-to-ceiling windows, and the overall style is a great example of contemporary chic. The nature-inspired palette of materials, textures and colours has been applied throughout all these quarters, subtly transforming each dwelling into a welcoming environment. The colours are gentle, the ambiance refined and the luxury unobtrusively integrated throughout. As an added extra for the full beam VIP suite, a private lounge turns this stateroom into an intimate and modern apartment. Additionally, the main deck also offers a massage room for the guests.

Upstairs, the owner's deck can be transformed into a completely separate section, for supreme privacy. The fore master suite offers a large and luxurious accommodation, with big lounge and a long central corridor connecting the big walk in wardrobes, massage room, his and hers bathrooms and a grand stateroom with extra private lounge. Contemporary style, a gentle ambiance and luxurious amenities are seamlessly blended into one lush suite. With the bathrooms fitted with either a big bathtub or an extra-large shower area, dramatic vista views from the stateroom and ample privacy throughout, Nirvana's master suite is a soothing and spacious haven of luxury and modern style. Generously topping it all off, these quarters have a completely secluded sun deck occupying the entire fore deck, including a private Jacuzzi.

The upper salon can be easily transformed into an extension of the master suite, turning the whole upper deck into lavish and superbly private owner's quarters. Here, a large central L-shaped lounge area and separate aft games area lead onto the wonderfully spacious aft deck, with a central dining table perfect for private, covered al fresco dining and entertaining.

The main lounge offers port and starboard side fold-out balconies, allowing guests to bring the inside out and enjoy the magnificent views.

In fact, this entire deck has a pleasant inside-outside ambiance, with the aft area completely shielded from the elements by glass port and starboard wind breakers, while maintaining a completely open look and feel. With an added lounge sofa plus completely open aft seating area, the all-around panoramic views are perfectly utilised, and making this deck offer countless opportunities for a wide variety of social occasions. All this, obviously, in the superbly elegant Nirvana style.

The central elevator and staircase, generously decorated with engraved silver bands swirling around the elevator's glass encasing, connect all interior decks. This allows guests to move around all of Nirvana's wonderful areas with ease.

From the lower deck, where guests can enjoy the large 3D cinema in complete privacy, right up to the bridge deck where the more activity-aimed amenities can be found.

Here, an impressively large, fully equipped gym offers guests the possibility to stay in shape, allowing them to take a breather on the secluded aft deck while enjoying a drink and the magnificent views. Afterwards,Nirvana’s big spa soothes, relaxesandinvigorates.

Upstairs, a superbly secluded sun deck offers the cherry on the cake. And what a cherry it is, with a 3 metre plunge pool and large fore sunbathing area, while the aft offers large sun pads, loungers and perfect privacy, all framed with exquisite views. Additionally, the aft sun deck conveniently functions as a fully certified helideck.

Nirvana offers a large array of luxury and style, assuring every guest to instantly feel right at home. She is about pampering and comforting her guests, effortlessly combining luxury and style in one superbly designed package.

Currently for sale at €230.000.000, she comes with two impressive 11 metre tenders, an 8.5 metre ski boat and no less than 6 jet skis and 4 waverunners. With the port side boarding platform, boarding any of the additional vessels is a breeze, again proving her skill for comforting and accommodating guests. Nirvanahas a crew of 26, and features an exceptionally crew and owner friendly layout. She has everything it takes to impress even the most experienced of guests, all while elegantly and self-sufficiently cruising the oceans of the world.

Oceanco

( www.oceancoyacht.com )








Friday, October 26, 2012

Lürssen Yachts 85 mt Quattroelle


Quattroelle was delivered in January 2013 and has a length of 86,11 metres. She is designed for extensive and extended cruising and with her long range she requires only a few stops in ports. Quattroelle is Italian for "4 times the letter L" and the 4 L's stand for Love, Life, Liberty and Luxury. These four key words express what this jewel of a yacht means to the owner.


Quattroelle is the first Lürssen yacht designed by Nuvolari&Lenard, who were responsible for the exterior as well for the interior design.

Dan Lenard, of Nuvolari & Lenard comments: “The 86 meter M/Y Quattroelle built by Lürssen. This large yacht is one of our most detailed designs ever, where we designed the exterior style, its interior and all the details of its hardware. Knowing the owner very well, and since long time, allowed us to tailor design this yacht following precisely his personality and I have no doubt that he will recognize himself, when looking to this ship”

She is a successful combination of elegance and sporty and she looks well on her way to become a Classic. The size of the yacht with its massive volumes was a challenge, but with careful volume distribution and a study of proportion, Nuvolari&Lenard nonetheless achieved a sleek appearance of the yacht. The funnel design reminds us of the air scoop of a formula one car and with its inverted shape creates the distinctive silhouette of Quattroelle. Her six decks offer her 12 guests enormous space for both entertainment and relaxation.
The interior can best be described as "eclectic contemporary". The comfortable feeling comes from a balanced connection between tradition and the best use of the decorative materials that Europe has to offer. The whole interior is customized, from pieces of furniture, hardware to lighting, combining a sophisticated palette of woods, stones and fabrics. “The interior has been designed keeping in mind the request of having wood as dominant material but not necessarily a Classic interior”, Arch. Valentina Zannier, interior designer at Nuvolari Lenard comments. “The modern approach, with original design elements, prevails on the classicism which is only a starting point which we used to develop the style. The materials are rich, the finishing is sophisticated but never excessive or vulgar”.

When entering Quattroelle through the main entrance into the wood and marble floored foyer you instantly get the feeling of a classic yacht. The foyer provides a very impressive staircase as well as an elevator, which accesses all decks from lower deck to bridge deck, and a day head. The gorgeous bronze handmade balustrade is an impressive feature perfectly matching the dynamic and fluid spirit of the interior throughout the boat.

Aft of the foyer, guests directly enter the formal dining salon, which offers seated dining for 16 but which can also be enlarged up to 20 guests. To enjoy the panoramic view while having a dinner, the outer bulwarks in way of the dining room are designed as outboard folding flaps. The dining room can be completely separated from the main salon and library which are further aft. The chandelier is a piece of art as well as the table. The dining table combines a weavy metal panel, engraved with a thick glass top. Its depth captures the light of the beautiful chandelier above.

The patterns in the carpet are repeated in the fabrics of the wall and the chairs. The side wall which separates the dining room from the library is covered by leather, of which an artist has incised floral pictures.

The library and formal main salon offer enormous space for their guests with different comfortable couches and chairs in warm brown, beige and blue colours. Pieces of furniture are executed with a sharp eye for detail and finish, from the blue artglass, to the curved and bold shapes of the joinery.

Forward of the foyer two doors lead into the cinema's lobby and then further forward to the guest lobby. The cinema is the ideal place for relaxing while watching a movie and offers space for all the guests.

The main deck hosts 5 guest suites, of which three are large VIP suites. The VIP suites offer double beds and the other two guest suites offer twin beds which can also be converted into queen-size beds. The décor of each cabin is different but all is held in warm brown, beige and blue colours. The big advantage of having the guest cabins on the main deck instead of on the lower deck, as is done on many other yachts, is that it gives not only a better separation between guests and crew but it also allows for larger and nicer accommodation with very large windows allowing for lots of natural light.

Half of the upper deck is dedicated to the owner's area, which includes a private study, two children's' cabins, the owners' suite with his and her bathrooms and personal dressing rooms. The owners' suite offers spectacular panoramic views and a side door offers the possibility to walk outside to a cosy private seating area. The warm décor underlines the very convenient and contemporary overall look and makes one feel very comfortable indeed.

The space for his and hers bathrooms is sumptuous and offers in addition to a large shower, also a Jacuzzi. The walk-in wardrobe has the size of an extra cabin and offers great comfort. The outside forward deck is designed to be the Owners private area, separated by privacy doors on the exterior walkways on both sides, but can also be used as a helicopter deck.

Repeating the layout of the main deck a small lobby with day head leads aft from the foyer into the upper deck lounge. The lounge offers ample seating and relaxation areas with a large TV screen, bar, and a self-playing Steinway piano. The upper salon shows how the natural light coming from the exterior meets the earth colors of the interior materials, giving the whole room a cozy feeling.

The outside aft deck offers extra large spaces and different areas. Valentina Zannier comments: “The core of the day life will be the upper aft deck which brings a notable layout: The deck can be quickly enclosed by sliding and pivoting glass panels. The result is a very flexible space that fits either the Mediterranean climate in the all open situation or the more chilled situations the yacht may experience up north”

In addition to the state-of-the-art wheelhouse, the bridge deck houses a radio room and ship's office and captain's accommodation as well as a generous owner's private lounge, which is decorated in light tones.The outside aft deck hosts a large pool with jet flow, surrounded by comfortable sun beds and seating areas.

Stairways on both sides lead to the top deck, which offers a protected area for a gym including beauty and massage rooms as well as a sauna. Forward on the top deck is a Jacuzzi with a spectacular panoramic view and in connection with the sun beds which surround it, it is a perfect area for relaxation. Treated water for both the pool on the bridge and the Jacuzzi on top deck is stored in separate holding tanks with individual temperatures so that the pool and the Jacuzzi are ready for use on short notice.

Aft of the lower deck is the upper engine room as well as the enormous tender garage which hosts two Colombo/LT tenders,: one Limo tender and one open tender, both designed by Nuvolari & Lenard, which both can be launched sideways through the hull doors. In addition there is plenty space for any other kind of water sport equipment including a dedicated dive equipment room.

A watertight door leads into the beach club area which includes a day head, a changing room and a sofa area equipped with a TV. Leaving towards the aft through the stern door you are entering a bathing area with an enormously sized fold out bathing stair and can also be used as a pick-up point for guests.

The tank deck hosts plenty space for the crew including a crew mess, crew lounge and crew office. A suitably sized and perfectly laid out laundry and fridge and freezer rooms can be found on the tank deck as well.

The engine room is the heart of the yacht and a masterpiece of Lürssen engineering with polished stainless steel applications. Powered by 2 CAT engines of 2.000 kW each, she reaches a top speed of 17 knots and has a range of 6.000 nm. Elastically mounted equipment guarantee an extremely quiet running of the yacht and zero speed fin-stabilizers are reducing wave generated motions when at anchor.

For low emissions the auxiliary engine exhaust system is equipped with HUG particle filters and soot burners which are fully compliant with the current IMO air pollution requirements. The system provides excellent fuel efficiency as heat is not generated electrically but directly by burning spare fuel thus demanding less generator capacity.

Quattroelle is a family yacht built for pleasure, but above all other considerations, she is a yacht intended to be self-sufficient during extended voyages on the high seas and well equipped for whatever she may face.


Project Name: Bellissimo Yacht type: Motor Yacht
Displacement
Imo: 1011628 MMSI:
Call sign: SYT#: Y03833
Flag: Cayman Islands

Length Overall (m): 85.00 Length Overall (ft): 278.87
Length On Deck (m): Length On Deck (ft):
Length Waterline (m): Length Waterline (ft):
Beam (m): Beam (ft):
Draught Max (m): Draught Max (ft):
Draught Min (m): Draught Min (ft):

Shipyard: Lurssen Yachts Year: 2013
Hull: Status: Outfitting
Port: Rendsburg Country: Germany

Naval Architect: Lurssen Yachts
Exterior Designer: Nuvolari & Lenard
Interior Designer: Nuvolari & Lenard

Hull Material: Steel Superstructure: Aluminium
Gross Tonnage: 2600 Displacement:
Class: Lloyds Register
Class Comments: MCA: No

Guest Cabins: 6 Staterooms
Guests: 12

Lürssen Yachts

( www.lurssen.com )

Monday, September 17, 2012

Wally Ace Kanga 36mt



2012 has been quite a year for Wally so far with three significant launches: the Bill Tripp-designed Wally 50m megasailer; Hamilton, the first high-performance Wally Cento; and now Kanga, its new 26m semi-custom flybridge motoryacht and the first in the Wally Ace semi-custom series. A number of journalists were invited to Ravenna to sea trial the pocket superyacht and Luca Bassani was on hand to respond to questions.

After the gargantuan Wally Why and Wally Island concepts, in many ways the Wally Ace marks a coming down to earth for the Monaco-based brand. Perhaps most importantly, it is Wally’s first displacement motoryacht, which in itself is something of a turnaround for the former owner of the 60-knot Wallypower 118, as the twin 385bhp CAT C12 main engines power the Wally Ace along at a sedate maximum speed of 13 knots. But slow speeds mean low fuel consumption and the motoryacht has a range of 3,000nm (5 lt/nm) at 12 knots, 5,000nm (3 lt/nm) at 9 knots, and a remarkable 10,000nm (1.5 lit/nm) at 8 knots.

“The displacement option was a fundamental decision,” said Bassani. “We have seen the economic and social status quo change dramatically in the last few years and to my mind a motoryacht has to reflect these new conditions in terms of fuel performance. A displacement hull also means a wider beam, which translates into more interior and exterior volume and added comfort. We arrived at the length overall on the basis of registration requirements, because an owner can also choose to drive the boat himself with a standard pleasure boat license, although there is also accommodation for four crew and it is built to Charter Class SCV MCA.”

Despite the displacement hull speeds, there is nothing remotely ordinary about the Wally Ace – this is a yacht that will turn heads wherever it goes. The exterior profile is reassuringly chunky but distinctly Wally-esque, with a flybridge featuring a ‘wrap-around’ teak deck that continues under the deckhead to line the overhang above the main aft deck. The GRP-sandwich hull, designed in collaboration with Allseas Design, is distinguished by its plumb bow with a squared-off stem, dramatic bow flare and an aft underbody that is virtually flat like a sailing boat hull (it is this curious hull form, with a maximum draught much further forward that on a conventional hull shape, that provides the efficient performance).

As on all Wally yachts, sail or power, exterior living space is a priority and the Wally Ace features 36 sqm of aft deck, 33 sqm of foredeck and 59 sqm on the sundeck — enormous on a yacht of this size. In fact, Wally claims the yacht offers up to 30 per cent more space overall than its closest competitors (think Benetti composite range or Custom Line navetta).

The interior, thanks to the GRP monocoque construction, is equally spacious and offers a layout with an open-plan main salon/dining room and a three or four cabin configuration below deck with 2.3m ceiling heights. Kanga, the yacht sea-trialed in Ravenna, features the four-cabin solution with two double cabins that look out aft over Wally’s iconic ‘terrace on the sea’ through sliding glass doors. But it is the three-cabin layout, with its full-beam aft cabin that makes the most dramatic use of this feature (with two more Wally Aces on order, the third in line will have three cabins).

Always keen to embrace innovative technology, the Wally Ace is equipped with an M21000 Seakeeper gyroscopic stabiliser system installed in the bow below the crew area, which works both at anchor and under way and does away with drag-producing or damage-prone appendages from the hull. The voluminous hull form provides sufficient space for a 6m diesel-powered tender housed amidships launched through a side opening, which also serves as independent access for crew and for loading/unloading stores and garbage. The centrally-located tender garage further accounts for the yacht’s neat horizontal trim, so not even a kilo of lead ballast has had to be added.

Under way, Kanga provided a quiet, stable and comfortable ride with no discernable vibration or cavitation. There was a slight whistling from the starboard shaft line below the aft cabin that raised decibel levels at low rpm, but this was a temporary fault probably due to an air lock resulting from the yacht being in and out of the water. It is worth remembering that the boat was still a month or so away from delivery and the all-teak interior was also unfinished. As always with the first in a new series, minor shortcomings reveal themselves, such as the somewhat insubstantial exterior caprails and stanchions that jarred with the aft fairleads milled from two solid blocks of stainless steel. Indeed, the lightweight stainless steel brightwork will be beefed up before delivery.

The Wally Ace represents a refreshing new direction and change of perspective for Wally Yachts that is appropriately timed to take into account emerging sensibilities. But the final product still chimes with the brand’s reputation for cutting-edge design and Bassani’s eagerness to challenge convention. Our guess is he’s on to a winner.

Technical Specifications of the WallyAce 26m motor yacht Kanga:

length over all 26.23 m – 86’ 0”
length hull (measured) 23.95 m – 78’ 7”
length waterline 25.85 m – 84’ 10”
beam max 7.75 m – 25’ 5”
draft (half load) 1.75 m – 5’ 9”
displacement (light ship) 84 tons – 185,188 lbs
displacement (half load) 94 tons – 207,234
max speed 13 knots @ 1,800 rpm
range 3,000 nm @ 12 knots/5,000 nm @ 9 knots
construction type Sandwich GRP
deck finish Teak
classification Charter Class SCV MCA
design Wally / Allseas / Luca Bassani Design
exterior styling & interior design Wally / Luca Bassani Design
accommodation 10 guests + 4 crew (4-cabin version)
propulsion 2 x 385 bhp Caterpillar C12
propeller 2 x FPP on shaft lines & skegs
steering 2 x blade rudders
fuel capacity 15,000 liters – 3,963 US gal
bow thruster 1 x 48.5 kW
stabilizer system Seakeeper M21000
generator 2 x 32 kW
fresh water 3,000 liters – 792 US gal
water maker 2 x 180 liter/h – 48 US gal/h
air conditioning 120,000 BTU

( www.wally.com )

Saturday, August 04, 2012

ACE 85mt Lürssen Yachts



Launched in Germany in January and shown out on her sea trials in mid-March is Lürssen’s latest superyacht, the beguilling Ace. The swooping curves of the 85-metre yacht, known as Project Rocky during her build, are the work of Andrew Winch: the characterful side arches mark Ace out as one of the most distinctive yachts of recent years. The oversized oval upper-deck balcony is another eye-catching feature, along with the cream-coloured hull and contrasting white superstructure, with large black windows that add a further distinctive note.

Aerial shots show an intriguing observation deck with its own hot-tub above the sundeck. Little is known about the Andrew Winch-designed interior but she accommodates 12 guests. Twin MTU 16V 4000s add the power. Delivery of this yacht is scheduled for late spring. The construction of Ace was supervised by the team at Moran Yacht & Ship and the first of six projects that Lürssen plans to launch this year.

Name: Ace (Project Rocky)
LOA: 85m/278’9’’
Beam: 13.8m/45’3’’
Builder: Lürssen Yachts
Exterior Designer: Andrew Winch Designs
Interior Designer: Andrew Winch Designs

( www.lurssen.com )

Thursday, July 12, 2012

Musashi 88mt Feadship




Taking her name from one of the most famous samurais in Japanese history, this thoroughbred superyacht reflects one of her namesake's most unique qualities. Miyamoto Musashi not only was a highly skilled swordsman, even a sword saint, but he wisely also believed in the necessity to excel in fields such as sculpting and writing. Hence, the name Musashi stands for strength balanced with delicacy. 

As light and eye-catching as her exterior may be, as with all good design there is more to Musashi than meets the eye. With an LOA just shy of 88 metres, she embodies a unique style that is a direct result of the combined efforts between the highly skilled teams of De Voogt and Sinot. This uniqueness is what makes her instantly fascinating, combining a delightful sense of openness and a more subtle closeness within lines that are masculine and firm.

The yacht is all about detail. Sinot did not only create the entire guest interior, exterior and every piece of furniture, but also handpicked all of the loose item, such as the yacht’s porcelain and cutlery.

A key concept for the development of this vessel, was to provide both sublime luxury and privacy to the owner and his family and guests. One of many examples of this concept, is the application of exceptionally large windows, which create a luxurious inside-out feeling or provide a more intimate setting, if and when required.

As Sander Sinot points out, “the large windows flood the Musashi's interior spaces with abundant natural light.”This delicate sense of openness is enhanced by the long external walkways, allowing guests to seemingly seamlessly flow from inside to outside without ever losing that transcending sense of spaciousness. OnMusashi, space is all around, whenever you want it to be. 

A splendid eye for detail can be seen throughout the superyacht's decks, both inside and out. One key element of design at this level, is the way this attention for detail strives for perfection on the one hand, while on the other there is no addition of any purposeless details.

The grand windows guarantee ample amounts of natural light throughout Musashi's interiors. Combining comfort with optimal user-friendliness, the interior designers combined the refined lines from Japanese Design with elements from Art Deco. This, combined with fully custom designed furnishings and the application of the finest of materials, resulted in an interior design that is as remarkable as are her external features.

With the tranquil atmosphere that defines the entire yacht, special attention was paid to the design of the Owner's private quarters. With an intimate ambiance set in luxury and finesse, high quality materials were selected to create a design that transcends the mere materials and combines them, to form a homely and vibrant personal dwelling for the Owner.

With clean lines, the occasional subtly rounded edge, a refined lighting scheme and a colour palette that is based on natural anigree wood, creamy silks and stainless steal, the Owner's staterooms (both on the bridge and upper deck) feel grand yet modest, something characteristic that can be experienced throughout the whole of Musashi's appearance. Sander Sinot tells us that designers “strove to create an intimate, homely atmosphere where the owner could retreat.”

As for special features, this vessel offers plenty. The spacious upper-deck lounge is one of these, with the ability to accommodate a company of up to 18 guests, this area shows a darker, more intimate and richer character with generously sized, custom designed furniture. Comfort was constantly kept in mind, with the furniture being extremely comfortable despite their geometrical shape. With a grand dining table, various lush seating arrangements, dramatically large windows around, this space, like so many others on board, oozes stylish comfort from every pore. Effortlessly flowing from inside to the aft deck, al fresco dining, cocktails and lounging are just some of countless possibilities to be enjoyed here, submerged in homely privacy. 

Connecting all decks internally, the central hallway offers a memorable feature with a stairway consisting of steps made out of several layers of compressed glass encompassed by a stainless steel casing. High levels of transparency were maintained throughout these spaces, despite the glass elevator by Lift-Emotion spanning three decks. On a vessel like this, it undoubtedly evokes great anticipation to discover where those steps might lead you next.

Perhaps it might be the cinema lounge, which is fully equipped and offers a sublime audiovisual experience for guests, with double loungers that can excellently be used as daybeds when this area serves as a lounge.

Every guest cabin on board is about comfort, with space and daylight as top priorities. Designed in Musashi's signature style of tranquillity and luxury, these staterooms offer oversized beds, large en suite bathrooms and such amenities like 65-inch television screens. As with all of Musashi's spaces, exceptional levels of detail are the key to success in these luxurious guest cabins that offer rest and relaxation for every guest on board. For each spacious bathroom, a simple motto seemed to have been sufficient for the design process, namely 'bathing'. Not only bathing in the most conventional sense, but also bathing in natural light, space and, more importantly, bathing in luxury. With a rich application of light woods and delicate lighting, Musashi transforms bathing into an art form. Combined with a fully equipped sauna, spa and gym area, one might find it easy to forget that the outside has so much to offer as well.

Externally, Musashi's sharply yet delicately designed decks offers guests a splendor of space. The main aft deck offers a grand external storage for the vessel's two large tenders. The upper aft deck supplies guests with ample opportunity for lounging and al fresco dining. Fore, a generously sized cockpit assures assures guests the possibilities of relishing the surroundings; space, views, a breeze and the sun. And for cooling down, a large Jacuzzi, also one of the yacht's notable pinnacles of design and craftsmanship, can be found on the sun deck, along with sunbeds an vista views that will take your breath away.

In short, Musashi is a superyacht that puts the emphasis on super.

( www.feadship.nl )

Thursday, June 28, 2012

VAVA II 96mt



The 96 metre (315ft) motor yacht VAVA II was built at the by Devonport Yachts shipyard in Plymouth, United Kingdom (Rebranded as Pendennis Plus in 2011). This is a magnificent boat in every way and she is the largest private superyacht to have been built and launched in the UK, England and Britain, if you do not count Royal yachts.

The Vava II by Pendennis Plus reportedly cost USD 160 million (£100 million) to build and took 200 craftsmen more than two years to complete. The new VAVA II motor yacht is owned by Swiss/Italian pharmaceutical tycoon and billionaire Ernesto Bertarelli and his wife, songwriter and former Miss UK Kirsty Roper. (Kirsty Bertarelli). The 96 meter yacht Vava II reportedly replaces the Bertarelli’s old 47-meter Feadship motor yacht called launched in 1996 called Vava. Ernesto Bertarelli is owner of the ex-America’s Cup team Alinghi, which held the Americas Cup for 3 events.

Measuring 96m (314.96ft) yacht VAVA II is the largest privately owned yacht ever to be built in the UK and is 33rd largest yacht in the world. She is also one of the most technologically advanced and stylish yachts in the world with exterior styling by Redman Whitely Dixon and interior design by Remi Tessier. Some of the yachts special features include a helicopter landing pad, a large fold-down beach club, a variable depth swimming pool, beautifully appointed guest cabins and large tenders stored in large tender garages aft and forward, able to carry guests to shore.

The VAVA II luxury superyacht is the largest ever private motor yacht to be built in the UK, England and Britain. She has been built from steel with an aluminium superstructure and complies with SOLAS codes, able to accommodate 36 guests. She would make a magnificent charter yacht if she was ever put on the charter market. 

( www. pendennis.com )

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Wally Better Place



Wally, the leading builder of innovative state-of-the-art sail and power yachts, has successfully launched the stunning Bugatti blue coloured 50-meter sailing yacht Better Place, the world’s largest sloop in carbon fiber developed on the lines of Tripp Design with the interiors by Wetzels Brown Partners, and uniquely classified RINA Green Star.

The Wally 50m touched the water after the owner’s wife smashed the champagne bottle on the keel bulb during a private ceremony in Ancona, Italy, where the yacht was built at WallyEurope facility using the most advanced carbon fiber construction technology.

“With Better Place, once again Wally opens a new route in yacht design and innovation” enthusiastically says Luca Bassani Antivari, Wally Founder and President and head of the R&D “We succeeded in delivering an environmental friendly and breakthrough Wally 50m with aggressive and sleek lines of a true performance sailing yacht, rather than the motor sailer look typical of this class of yachts.”

“Better Place introduces innovative concepts in the round-the-world mega yacht cruisers“ continues Bassani “such as big volumes associated with ultra light displacement, latest diesel electric propulsion system, staysail simplified system, deckhouse with full height windows, uniquely large open-air living areas, raised bulwark, aft owner’s suite with portholes and hatches on four sides and direct access to the Terrace-on-the-sea. “

Better Place is the first sailing yacht ever developed to comply with the environmental requirements of the RINA Green Star Design additional class notation, reserved to the ships which are designed, constructed and operated in such a way as to ensure maximum respect for the environment.

Big volumes yet light displacement and easy-sailing

The measured displacement of this mega sailer perfectly matches the theoretical data: only 250 tons, of which 88 of the ballast (fin and bulb keel) and 11.5 of the full rigging (mast, boom, PBO rigging). The Wally 50m resulted also in perfect trim.

“This result reflects WallyEurope’s excellent building quality carried out throughout all the construction, using the latest advanced composite technology” confirms Luca Bassani.

“The displacement and sail area ratio” predicts Luca Bassani “would provide for very high performance also in light airs, under 10 knots of wind. And the Wally lifting keel, increasing the draft from 4.6 to 6.5 meters, further improves Better Place’s performance, that are associated with the proven Wally easy-sailing system to produce a true Fast and Easy mega yacht. ”

Along with the in-furling boom, self-tacking jib, Magic Trim for the main sheet, captive winch for the jib sheet , and push button controls, the Wally easy-sailing features of the Wally 50m include the new staysail system, specifically developed by the R&D for this mega yacht: the furling staysail with no-torsion luff cable is always ready to be easily and quickly hoisted from its 8.6-m long dedicated locker in the forward deck.

The fast and simplified mega yacht uniquely combines performance with all the world cruiser characteristics offering plenty of storage and large living areas exceeding 300 sqm inside and 400 sqm outside.

Diesel electric propulsion & Green classification

The unique environmental characteristics of Better Place go even further than those required by the RINA Green Star Classification: she is the first sailing yacht equipped with the latest diesel electric propulsion technology, to increase power efficiency and reduce consumption, noise and vibration, as well as the ordinary maintenance of the propulsion system.

The 705kW power is produced by three generators, offering the opportunity to convert some hydraulic services into electrical ones thanks to the very powerful energy source, such as the inner stay furler, and the sheet tensioning devices.

Design and styling evolution

The overall design, interior and exterior, is astonishing and innovative compared to any other similar yacht.

The exterior and interiors are developed following the Wally concept of inside-outside living areas, whereas the interiors open onto the exteriors and vice versa. Introduced in yacht design by Wally in 1998 with the sailing cruiser Tiketitan, this concept has been constantly developed by the Monegasque brand pioneering also the glass deckhouses and the deck skylights.

The deckhouse encloses the 86-sqm open space with navigation, dining and lounge areas, and is characterised by full height windows giving the open-air feeling, a sort of sheltered cockpit enhancing the inside-outside living.

The genuinely Wally raised bulwark, firstly featured by Esense in 2006, offers unique protection and replaces the less safe and aesthetically appealing rail and stanchions, while leaving the hull lines pure.

The 62-sqm owners’ suite is aft with extraordinary visibility and brightness. The natural light floods in from four sides of the vast stateroom: through the portholes on both sides, and the mirrored glass aft and above. The owners’ private area has direct access to the 30-sqm Terrace-on-the-sea, that is another distinctive feature of the Wally inside-outside concept.

On deck and inside

The main deck is open and free of unnecessary interruptions, the saloon, dining room and wheelhouse forming one continuous, 86 sqm open space under the deckhouse.

The saloon with panoramic views seats 20 people as lounge opening onto the aft deck with further lounge space. There is an option for the central coffee table to be converted into an additional dining for eight people.

The dining area forward seats 10 people in dining layout and can be converted into an additional lounge area with XL sofa seating six comfortably .

The forward social cockpit, directly accessible from the interior dining and lounge areas, features table seats and sun beds for up to 20-people. Beyond this, the forward deck features a Jacuzzi, finished in black, which is positioned beneath deck level and is therefore invisible when not in use, an hidden winch “cockpit” for the halyards, two large tender garages, stay-sail locker, sail lockers, and the Wally submarine anchor locker.

The 100-sqm sundeck is accessed both by an outside staircase and by an inside open staircase, leading to steering and navigation, lounge, dining, sunbathing and barbeque areas,

A particularly innovative service feature is the open food lift connecting galley, interior dining area and sundeck– a ‘suitcase’ suspended in free space, connected by a single vertical track, to lift . The sundeck dining can be converted into a huge sunbed with the addition of an inflatable mattress, providing further comfort without stretching available storage capacity.

A hull side door is located amidships to starboard: when open, it converts into a swimming and tender boarding platform.

Maximising space and minimising storage requirements, a newly designed seating module has been developed for the deck in carbon and mesh with low profile cushions, for easy stowage, by the interior designers Wetzels Brown Partners, who designed all the deck furnishing.

The lower deck features the night and service areas accommodating the owners in the aft suite and up to ten guests in four double staterooms, and ten crew in five double cabins. All cabins have en-suites.

The crew and service quarter is forward with galley, laundry and crew mess.

The two engine rooms are amidships.

The interior design combines carbon look both gloss and satin, satin white lacquered oak, grey leather and colour matched upholstery to create a relaxed feeling. Colour-changing LED lights are used throughout the yacht and can be adjusted in order to change the atmosphere, reflecting the interior design concept to have soft and neutral tones that are coloured by the lights. The cabins are linked by a light installation, running along the spine of the yacht.

( www.wally.com )

Sunday, April 29, 2012

Feadship 78,5 mt Hampshire II




Taking place on Saturday 14th of April, Feadship has officially announced the successful launch of the 78.5m custom motor yacht Hampshire II; the latest scion of the Feadship fleet and an adventurous addition to the water.

Hampshire II was built for an experienced Feadship owner with a great love of action and sports; inherited in design features such as the foredeck ball court or the 25m high crow’s mast.

During her launch ceremony at the Feadship Kaag yard, Feadship director Dick van Lent paid tribute to the owner of Hampshire II. “It has been a pleasure and a privilege to create such a unique vessel for such a passionate sailor. As an experienced Feadship owner, he really appreciates the qualities of a Feadship and the fun of being closely involved in the design and construction process.”

“This is exactly the sort of client we love to work with, and Hampshire II is exactly the kind of superyacht that Feadship owners deserve. She is built around every conceivable sporting activity while also offering exceptional facilities for those who like to take things a little easier. Many of his friends and family were involved in the various milestones of the build, and now they are all set to reap the rewards.”

Positive proof of this statement was seen in the hours leading up to the launch ceremony as various teams representing the owner’s guests and personnel from the yard played football on the foredeck of Hampshire II. The yacht’s helicopter landing platform, nicely finished in teak, can be transformed into a playing field for basketball, tennis, baseball, badminton… and football. A giant net can also be placed around the deck to ensure care-free gaming.

This is just one of many unusual but alluring features onboard Hampshire II, the split-level design of which maximises the volume and outdoor space. On the sundeck, for instance, a crow’s nest placed atop the mast is reached by a two-person elevator and offers panoramic views high above the water. For the truly adventurous, a zip wire is connected to the mast which her owners can tie a rope and slide at a breathtaking speed from the crows nest down to the water.

The contemporary overall design by Redman Whiteley Dixon and Feadship incorporates two amazing beach-clubs and balconies on either side which act as idyllic seating terraces for the owners.

While her exterior profile is modern, Hampshire II’s interior is a classic affair which highlights a typical English style bar on the bridge deck in place of the traditional lounge. Edmiston attracted the buyer to the project, managed the construction and will be overseeing the yacht's future.

Feadship
( www.feadship.nl )

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Alloy Yachts 47mt Loretta Anne


Alloy Yachts has launched its largest motor yacht yet, the 47 metre Loretta Anne, previously known as hull number AY43.

Loretta Anne is the latest in a number of Alloy-built superyachts to be created by the successful design duo of Dubois Naval Architects and Donald Starkey. She shares some common characteristics with her sisters, although her raised pilothouse has vertical windows, and her additional 7 metres of length fits elegantly into a well-proportioned profile.

The spacious interior offers some modifications, like the presence of a large galley on the main deck. The owner’s suite is forward in the main deck, while three double cabins accommodate guests on the lower deck. A fourth convertible cabin is fitted out as a gymnasium.

Lloyd’s classed, Loretta Anne is powered by twin 1,600hp Caterpillar C-32 engines, and she’s fully equipped with twin Caterpillar generators, and ABT thrusters and stabilisers.

The successor of two other Alloy motor yachts for a repeat client, Loretta Anne will be delivered this year. Her final destination will be the Florida/Bahamas area where her limited draught of 2.21m will give her much scope for cruising.

Technical Specifications of the 47m luxury motor yacht Loretta Anne (ex hull AY43) by Alloy Yachts

LOA : 47m / 154ft
LWL: 41.73m / 136.9ft
Beam: 9.19m / 30.15ft
Draft: 2.2m (DWL) / 7.2ft
Displacement: 330 tonnes (DWL)
Main Engines: 2 x Caterpillar C32 ‘D’ rated 1600hp
Bow/Stern Thrusters: Alloy Yachts / ABT TRAC II 140hp
Generators: 2 x Caterpillar C6.6 100kw
Stabilisers: ABT TRAC 4 fin with at rest stabilisation
Fuel: 54,000 litres (approx)
Water: 12,000 litres (approx)
Designer: Dubois Naval Architects
Interior Designer: Donald Starkey Designs
Classification: Lloyds Register of Shipping, *100 A1 SSC, Yacht Mono, G6, MCH, & LY2

Alloy Yachts

( www.alloyyachts.co.nz )

Monday, February 27, 2012

O’Pati 40mt


Combining high performance and Italian style in a sleek design, Athens-based Golden Yachts Shipyard launched their stunning 40 metre superyacht O’Pati back in 2011. With sleek, powerful lines designed by Giorgio Vafiadis & Associates, she exudes an effortless image of elegance and power, with her dark hull concealing so much more. Looks like these are highly promising when it comes to performance and O’Pati surely has the power to back up her sportive looks.

With cruising and top speeds of respectively 24 and 32 knots, she effortlessly takes guests from a secluded beach to a cosmopolitan port in the blink of an eye. With a crew of 8 ready to tend one's every need, everything is available to ensure guests a extremely comfortable stay, and much more.

O’Pati seduces with her image of sportiveness but don't be fooled by mere appearances. There is much more to be discovered behind this first impression. A variety of spacious outerdeck areas is available for guests' enjoyment, with the bow area, flybridge and main aft deck offering ample comfort in style. The flybridge offers an inviting setting, with large sunbeds for comfortable lounging in a pleasantly private setting.

The bow area boasts a large, U-shaped sofa and table, added to a set of sizeable sunbeds that easily turn this space into a sunbather's paradise. Additionally, it is not hard to imagine this area offering a perfect setting for dinners and cocktails, effortlessly entertaining sizeable groups of guests. It's not hard to imagine lots of time spent here in luxury and comfort, enjoying vista views and all luxuries O’Pati has to offer.

Continuing our onboard tour at the aft deck, this area offers ample space for breakfasts, lunches and al fresco dinners. Shade is provided by use of a large retractable automatic awning, easily transforming the area from an intimate setting for meals and drinks into a sun-drenched lounging space. Large aft sunbeds form a welcoming and relaxing amenity, as well as providing a smart privacy buffer for the dining area.

Her exterior looks, dark and slightly mysterious, form a pleasant contrast with the interior spaces, which are equally stylish but set in a fresh, bright atmosphere. Using luxury materials such as leather, wood and high quality fabrics, combined with ample natural light, an Italian-design interior has been created that is both stylish and comfortable. With O’Pati's interiors designed by Giorgio Vafiadis & Associates, a contemporary and minimalistic style has been created without losing sight of guest comfort. The main saloon's interior design shows a palette of whites, creamy and subtle golden tones, perfectly blended with natural dark woods to form a soothing, contemporary surroundings.

Lines are modern and moderately curvy, turning the saloon, which boasts a luxuriously sized central sofa in the lounging space and a comfortable dining area, into a room of space and finesse. A perfect combination of luxury and minimalism is shown, all framed with amenities such as a fully stocked bar and an impressive 45” mirror LCD-screen as part of the home theater center.

Located on the lower deck, the Master stateroom can be found, designed in O’Pati's style of luxurious minimalism. This area shows how versatile the superyacht's palettes of colours and materials are applied for different purposes. With a walk around wardrobe and en-suite bathroom facilities, including separate shower area, these quarters are the perfect retreat supplying guests with every comfort in style.

Like the master cabin, the vessel's two double cabins can also be found on the lower deck. Each decorated in slightly different variations of O’Pati's interior style, all guests are supplied with comfort and space. The same goes for her two twin suites, and with each of the latter offering an additional Pullman berth, this amazing superyacht impressively offers space for a company of up to twelve guests.

Greatly adding to onboard comfort and enjoyment, an array of recreational toys has been made available for guests onboard. With a three-seater waverunner, 4.8 metres Evinrude Zodiac and Bombard Typhoon 280 Aero tenders and a large collection of equipment for snorkeling, water-skiing, fishing and wakeboarding, guests' watersport activities are virtually endless.

O’Pati is a finalist for the World Superyacht Awards 2012, and is available for charter through Atalanta Golden Yachts. Her charter rate starts from 85,000 euro weekly at low season and is 108,000 euro at high season plus VAT plus expenses.


Atalanta Golden Yachts
+30 210 991 07 22

( www.atalantagoldenyachts.com )

Friday, January 27, 2012

Codecasa 65 Mt. Family Day



With a name like Family Day, this 65 metre addition to the Codecasa fleet, with an interior by Della Role Design, brings to mind an image of coziness, warmth and tradition. Yet, with her sleek and modern exterior, that is both sportive and contemporary, an interesting contrast is created that instantly attracts one's attention. With smooth exterior lines, Family Day boasts a curvy look, being a modern vessel that shows off speed and comfort without being too sharp or minimalistic.

Upon boarding, an instant sense of spaciousness becomes apparent, with the aft main deck being a large example of what Family Day has to offer. With a number of sunbeds available alongside a big sofa and two coffee tables, accompanied by a collection of chairs and sofa's, an appropriate setting is offered for lounging, enjoying the company of up to 14 guests that can be comfortably accommodated onboard.

The sense of space is skillfully continued throughout the design of the main saloon. With both the interior and al fresco dining areas being situated on the upper deck, this sizeable main saloon is all about comfort and style in a soothing and intimate setting.

This area is loosely separated in two segments, the aft being a slightly more formal space for lounging and socializing. With floors, walls and fixed cabinets executed in warm, dark lacquered wood, combined with light classical furnishings set in a perfectly symmetrical composition, the aft area in the main saloon offers a classic and slightly African-colonial atmosphere, the latter being largely a result of the artworks present. The fore area, separated by two low cabinets, is equally spacious yet lighter and more modern, with contemporary furnishing for both the port side lounging area and the game area situated opposite.

A grand, circular central staircase connects the main deck with the lower and upper deck guest areas. Upstairs the main formal dining area can be found, with a centrally placed circular dining table surrounded by classic dining chairs covered in a gentle cream coloured upholstery.

Adjacent to the dining table, two sets of lavish chairs have been placed on either side of the large glass sliding doors leading to the upper aft deck area. Here, a large al fresco dining table can be found, perfectly private yet with magnificent surrounding views. Surrounded by two structural aft sofas, accompanied by tables and chairs, the total image of the upper deck area is that of a stylish and comfortable surrounding that has a main focus on supplying guests onboard with a suitable, luxurious and private setting for ample breakfasts, lunches and dinners.

The sundeck perfectly offers what these areas are supposed to be about, namely privacy, panorama views, comfort, sun and shade. With ample sun loungers, a semicircular central bar area, gym, barbecue and the central elevator connecting all fours decks for optimal comfort and ease, the sun deck is a lush hideaway outside. Additionally, a large second sun area can be found on the forward upper deck, where a big cockpit, fitted with sofas and sunbeds, has been designed around Family Day's big whirlpool.

Large companies require appropriate accommodation, and with a total of seven guest cabins, including the Owner's suite, Family Day supplies just that.

The grand Owner's quarters offer a large, full beam stateroom with both an office and sitting area, his and hers washrooms separated by a centrally placed Jacuzzi, large separate Owner's study and a big walk in closet.

Two doubles and two twins can be found below decks, where the twins offer an additional two pullmans, while two VIP cabins and the Owner's quarters can be found on the main deck. Each cabin has been designed in the vessel's signature style, with dark, lacquered woods, light leather and fabrics and a contemporary styling perfectly frame all available amenities. Remarkably, a spacious en suite bathroom with bathtub can be found in each of the guest cabins, clearly making no distinction between guests onboard in that respect.

With supreme views from the interior, wonderfully large decks, and exquisite finish, Family Day offers everything needed for a perfect trip, and more.

Length Overall: 65.0 m
Length Water Line: 56.50 m
Beam: 11.20 m
Maximum Draft: 3.70 m
Hull: High tensile steel, AH36
Superstructure: Aluminum, 5083 H 111/H 321
Half Load Displacement: 825 tons, approx.
Engines: 2 x 2448 HP Caterpillar 3516B @ 1600 RPM
Maximum Speed: 18 knots @ half load displacement
Cruising Speed: 12 knots
Range: 5,000 nautical miles @ 12 knots
Fresh Water Capacity: 30,000 l
Fuel Oil Capacity: 120,000 l
Accommodations: 12 guests in 6 guest cabins, 1 owner’s suite
Crew Accommodations: 1 captain’s cabin, 1 chief engineer’s cabin, 7 twin bed cabins

Codesasa
+39 0584 38 3221
info@codecasayachts.com


( www.codecasayachts.com )