Greece

Anastassiades & Tsortanides

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354809/image/large-f3d819d9491b13f18751a42f8bac07b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354809">Observed last week docked in Cape Town, South Africa, was the 49.38-metre converted yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a>. Originally launched in 1970 as a rugged ocean-going rescue tug by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anastassiades & Tsortanides (Company)">Anastassiades &amp; Tsortanides</a>, she began a new life in 2001 after being transformed in New Zealand into a capable expedition yacht. A major interior overhaul by Paris-based studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7008" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Charles Zana (Company)">Charles Zana</a> followed in 2019, introducing a refined look and key amenities such as a spa pool and a sun deck capable of supporting helicopter operations. Most recently, a 2024 refresh brought a new repaint and technical upgrades to keep her cruising in peak condition. Built to tackle the world’s toughest environments, from Arctic ice to tropical islands, the 669 GT yacht is powered by a single <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engine, offering a cruising speed of 11 knots and a top speed of 14 knots.If you would like to see your photo featured each day, then send your submissions to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:news@superyachttimes.com" target="_blank">news@superyachttimes.com</a>.

49m converted yacht Asteria in Cape Town

The 49m yacht Asteria, built by Anastassiades & Tsortanides in 1970, is seen docked in Cape Town, South Africa. 

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/331990/image/large-2ed6903ef30e52ba7e31a2f8115a707b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/331990">Seen here cruising the River Thames in the United Kingdom, two weeks ago, is the 49.38-metre converted yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a>. Originally built in 1970 as an ocean-going rescue tug, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> was converted into an expedition yacht in 2001 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1070" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northport Engineering (Company)">Northport Engineering</a> in New Zealand. In 2019, she underwent a major refit by French studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7008" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Charles Zana (Company)">Charles Zana</a>, which gave her interior a modern yet classic feel. The refit included the addition of a spa pool on the top deck, new paint and a sun deck capable of landing a five-tonne helicopter. The 699 GT yacht boasts exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/45" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pieter Beeldsnijder Design (Company)">Pieter Beeldsnijder Design</a> and naval architecture by her original builders. Inside, her bright interior benefits from large windows, while the aft saloon doubles as a library and movie room. Designed to navigate extreme environments, including polar regions, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> is powered by a single <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engine, allowing her to cruise comfortably at 11 knots with a top speed of 14 knots.

49m converted yacht Asteria leaving London

The 49m converted yacht Asteria, built by Anastassiades & Tsortanides in 1970, is seen in Gravesend, leaving London, United Kingdom. 

Loran Stavrou, Yacht Sales Executive at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="OneWater Yacht Group (Company)">OneWater Yacht Group</a>, has had an extensive maritime career encompassing dynamic roles. From his beginnings as a private yacht captain to a navigational officer for commercial ships and a &nbsp;project manager, ultimately culminating his role as a seasoned yacht broker with expertise in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> yacht sales.<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> had the opportunity to meet Loran at our new office in Amsterdam. After a brief introductory conversation and a tour of the new office, we proceeded to the conference room for the interview, where Loran expressed his admiration for the yachting photography dotted around the office.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/292885/image/large-f07023e307f4543ebce6fcf759282e14.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/292885">Seated across from each other at the long wooden table, we resumed our conversation, with Loran recounting his entry into the yachting sector. At the age of 20, he was asked to join a sailing delivery from Greece to the Caribbean. “After returning from the sailing delivery I started working as a captain on sailing charters between the Greek islands, including deliveries of new sailing yachts from France to Greece. This eventually led to my first role as a private yacht captain on a 64-foot Grand Soleil Maxi One”. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256188/image/large-4920d6ce027e0eefe163a22ca84f57ab.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256188">After accumulating eight years of navigational experience, Loran returned to the Netherlands, where he completed Nautical College and achieved the status of a Commercial Unlimited Licensed Captain. Following his experience working on commercial ships, he eventually assumed the role of captain on the 49.3-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anastassiades & Tsortanides (Company)">Anastassiades &amp; Tsortanides</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a>. Loran further elaborated how he transitioned into a more project management-oriented captain role, overseeing the construction of new-build yachts. His final assignment involved overseeing the construction of the 31.01-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2591" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delfino31.01m (101'9&quot;)Sunseeker2006">Delfino</a>, which had previously been named&nbsp;Lady Christina.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/223537/image/large-570665fbb486aa2de8cdc82db33d061c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/223537">As the interview progressed, it became evident that Loran holds a profound passion for the yachting industry. He revealed his enthusiasm, affirming that he could spend the entire day discussing the intricacies of the industry. When reflecting on the conventional 9-5 Monday-Friday work schedule, Loran articulated his aversion, particularly toward Mondays. He explained, "In this industry, I don't encounter the typical Monday grind. If I show a yacht on a Saturday or Sunday, and the prospective buyer expresses genuine interest, by Monday, I'm flying out to finalise the contract. The conventional Monday routine does not exist for me, it's an integral part of my identity and what fuels me to succeed”. He acknowledged that it also means foregoing a traditional Christmas break, but finds the continuous pace enjoyable.Loran then decided to transition to a shoreside role within the yachting sector, focusing on the sale of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> yachts in Miami. He commented: “After receiving a warm invitation from the sales director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a>, I began my career selling <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> yachts in Miami 2009”. Loran further revealed the amusing coincidence that “before this, I worked in large ships delivering new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> yachts to the US. I was responsible for the loading and discharge of yachts onto commercial vessels”.Despite his diverse maritime background, Loran intriguingly shared his challenges in transitioning from a captain and project manager to a broker. “As a captain and, notably, as a project manager, my role involved identifying and addressing all yacht-related issues. However, in sales, one's primary duty is to listen attentively to the client's requirements and preferences. Initially, I found myself inadvertently pointing out yacht issues to clients, which runs counter to the role of a broker”.When explaining his decision to primarily focus on selling <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> yachts, Loran cited two main factors. First, his extensive experiences with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> particularly on new-build projects; and secondly, their meticulous attention to detail in client service, specifically customising interior layouts as part of their bespoke programme for larger models. “For instance, as part of a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> 95 Yacht new-build, we installed a music studio into the layout. Similarly, in a recent 90 Ocean project, we installed custom modifications to the main deck saloon sofa to both enlarge it whilst curving the end module in order to ease access to the sliding side patio door whilst adding deeper, softer bases for client comfort. We then made a raft of changes to the open galley arrangement with an extended bar to allow for three bar stools and a shutter blind recessed into the ceiling to ensure the aesthetic was not affected but allows for a multi-use galley offering an open social space but also a closed off private area if the chef is onboard. These seemingly straightforward changes highlight <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a>’s adaptability in meeting client demands, setting them apart from other yards.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/250523/image/large-4cf316434019e9b89e2d1de6afee9f43.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/250523">When discussing his success in selling <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> yachts, Loran emphasised his specialisation in catering to yacht enthusiasts. While various <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> models, such as the 88 and 95 Yacht, have been popular, he particularly excelled with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> 76 Yacht. His achievement in this field is rooted in a shared passion with his customers: a profound appreciation for navigating the open ocean. This shared enthusiasm aligns with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a>'s hull designs and navigation capabilities.&nbsp;Loran further pointed out that certain yacht hull designs restrict their capacity to navigate across the deep seas. Owners of such yachts often choose to ship their vessels to then fly to the location and stay onboard, essentially utilising their yacht as a live-aboard setting. As for the typical <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> owner Loran explained that “they tend to have a deep passion for navigating and piloting their yachts. For instance, the owner of Lady Christina simply enjoyed sitting on the flybridge and taking control of his yacht.“Loran further noted that,"many yacht owners just love being at anchor, partying, or simply enjoying the view. Here's the thing: I've had the pleasure of working with numerous customers, who not only appreciate the yachts for their hull designs and operational capabilities, but also enjoy sharing their experiences with me. They often send me family photos as they enjoy their time on the yacht. Sometimes, I even receive videos showcasing the yacht's performance, even in rough seas. I remember once sitting down and receiving pictures of a client enjoying cocktails onboard. And a week later, the owner would send a video of him cruising the yacht at 20 knots and 30 knots, you could feel the thrill as the yacht powered through the waves."When asked about noteworthy trends in the market, Loran highlighted a recent intriguing development towards downsizing. "While it's a common practice for yacht owners to upgrade their vessels," he noted, “there's a noticeable surge in owners embracing the idea of downsizing and significantly reducing their crews. Some have gone from ten or twelve crew members to as few as five or even none at all.”&nbsp;He illustrated this shift with an example of a former client who once owned a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> 95 Yacht but now owns a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> 76 Yacht. “Notably, this client now navigates the vessel himself and enjoys the newfound autonomy. In the context of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> yachts within the 30-metre range, it is typical to maintain a crew of at least two members. However, when transitioning to a 21.3-metre yacht any owner can captain the yacht and the need for these two crew (permanent) vanishes. This enables owners with increased autonomy and privacy as they can not only conveniently moor their yachts in front of their residences but also enjoy time with their families onboard without anyone else”.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/292829/image/large-6d085777487cebc5a69400d0e17447a1.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/292829">As for his advice for individuals aspiring to become yacht brokers, Loran commented that:” I would emphasise the importance of thorough product knowledge. Knowledge is critical in this field. My advice would be to step onboard every yacht, open every hatch, and familiarise yourself with every system. Understanding the history of the specific yacht builder and their previous models is crucial. Whenever possible, try to visit the shipyard where they are crafted. In the yachting industry, in-depth product knowledge is a key to success”.As the interview was drawing to a close, Loran was asked if he could invest in any yacht, what type he would choose and why. He replied, “apart from a wonderful <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> sitting at the bottom of my garden to jump onboard at a moment’s notice, I would also choose a sailing yacht, based between the Greek islands, allowing the wind to guide me. It would be a journey back to where it all began.”

"The conventional routine does not exist for me": Meet Loran Stavrou of OneWater Yacht Group

SuperYacht Times had the opportunity to meet Loran at our new office in Amsterdam.

The 49.38-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anastassiades & Tsortanides (Company)">Anastassiades &amp; Tsortanides</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> has entered the market. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/asteria/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht, Asteria for sale</a>, was built in 1970 as an ocean-going rescue tug and was converted in 2000 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1070" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northport Engineering (Company)">Northport Engineering</a> in New Zealand into a world-class expedition yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256188/image/large-4920d6ce027e0eefe163a22ca84f57ab.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256188"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> is a proven world cruiser and has spent two decades cruising from pole to pole. In 2019, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/motor/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> underwent another extensive refit by French studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7008" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Charles Zana (Company)">Charles Zana</a>. Her interior was redesigned with a contemporary flare while maintaining her classic appeal.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256186/image/large-1d1cb2789b893db325d52e51b1a83b61.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256186">The robust 669 GT conversion <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">yacht for sale</a>, features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/45" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pieter Beeldsnijder Design (Company)">Pieter Beeldsnijder Design</a>, with naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/516" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anastassiades & Tsortanides (Company)">Anastassiades &amp; Tsortanides</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a>’s current owner is dedicated to her upkeep and has maintained her to the highest standards, leaving her in great condition for more adventures.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256183/image/large-b44d9078db012a5da91498dc494e5f3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256183">The aft saloon doubles as a library and movie room with large almost beam width extra-wide sofas. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> also benefits from a bright interior, thanks to large windows that adorn all the guest areas. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/19093/image/large-469e3380ed93ef5381edaf8c58e85192.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/19093">The dining area of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> is separated by large bevelled glass and wooden doors. The dining area is able to accommodate up to 14 guests for a formal dining experience, surrounded by sculptures and curated works of art.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256174/image/large-6bcc5fbb568189123dcf9f2b046c1e76.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256174"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a>’s main saloon provides a great space for guests to socialise and relax, with a full bar and plenty of seating. The seating is designed for large groups, but set up so as to not lose those intimate nooks that make the ample-sized saloon perfect for any group.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256195/image/large-abe480beb3715cd2472ee1c2fe9bf37a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256195">A notable feature onboard the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/anastassiades-tsortanides/for-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Anastassiades &amp; Tsortanides yacht for sale</a> is her luggage room, located on the main deck. This large storage area solves a problem that many yachts of this size face and provides capacious space for bulky cases to be stored.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256187/image/large-bd57cb215cd2f5298870419cb6c50d87.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256187"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256190/image/large-903b8e047550f9261f06c46bb79e6d96.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256190"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> is able to accommodate up to 14 guests in seven staterooms with her owner’s suite located forward on the third deck. The master suite provides easy access to both the pilot house and main deck and includes a king-bed and marble ensuite bathroom.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256184/image/large-b01fb26f1bba63071136daa8437d795e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256184">Aft of the owner’s suite is a smaller stateroom suited for young children, but could also easily be converted into a gym, office, or wellness centre.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256192/image/large-198dfeda0cb209b770dbe56199816c02.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256192"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256193/image/large-b6278997d8d45907f292b419cad7d0df.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256193">The remaining guest staterooms of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> include a port and starboard VIP suite with queen-beds and ensuite bathrooms, two double staterooms that can be converted into twins, and a twin stateroom. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> is also able to accommodate up to 22 crew in 11 cabins.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256176/image/large-d72b5c849ba48ba91621f325653f147d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256176"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256189/image/large-2d9a6e980562d83347ad8771bedf2cbf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256189"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a>’s extensive refit did not stop with her interior, and included the addition of a spa pool covered by a huge bimini on the top deck, as well as new paint and decks. Her sun deck is also capable of landing a five-tonne helicopter, while her aft deck is perfect for working out with the yacht’s gym equipment.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256180/image/large-8e26a89481e65fa052211553b3c2f8dc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256180"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> has plenty of exterior spaces, with a large round table with seating for 12 on her main deck for alfresco dining. The area is surrounded by a large deck of cushioned built-in seating with ample storage underneath.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/256173/image/large-31239d16ed399a89e6333bea8b87cb06.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/256173">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> underwent a full main engine rebuild and generator service in 2022. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.38m (162'0&quot;)Anastassiades & Tsortanides1970">Asteria</a> will return to the shipyard in January 2023 to service her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5020" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Quantum Marine Stabilizers (Company)">Quantum</a> zero-speed stabilisers. She is equipped with a single <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engine providing her with a top speed of 14 knots and a cruising speed of 11 knots.&nbsp;

49m Anastassiades and Tsortanides yacht Asteria for sale

The 49m Anastassiades & Tsortanides yacht Asteria for sale is a proven world cruiser following her conversion in 2000.

49m Anastassiades & Tsortanides yacht Asteria enters the market

Last month we published an article about the fate of superyacht Lea, originally launched in 1973 at the Anastassiades &amp; Tsortanides. I spotted the yacht just around the corner from the airport of Pisa, and it looked like she was in need of some love and care, and perhaps a refit to bring her back to her former glory. <img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/149174/image/large-1a925e3573d2e0a29c9a8048625a35f8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/149174">Following our article, which you can read <a href="#managed-by-application" target="_blank" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/42395">here</a>, her new owner got in touch with us, and he has told us he has recently bought the vessel, and that the yacht will indeed be refitted. Passion, as she is now called, has just been moved to Genoa, where she is waiting for shipment on Dock Wise to Florida. From here on, she will then sail via Panama to Ecuador, where she will undergo a major refit.After her refit, the yacht will operate in the Galápagos Islands as a charter vessel.By Maarten Janssen, photo by the owner of Passion

Superyacht Lea sold and to be refitted

In 1988 superyacht Bellissima, originally launched in 1973 at the Anastassiades &amp; Tsortanides, was completely rebuilt. After her relaunch, she was one of the most opulent yachts of her time, featuring an Asian style interior, with many fabrics from China and Thailand, such as pleated silk overheads.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/148741/image/large-877467ddef90809aacd6b4fc84e681f3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/148741">She was once owned by English poultry farmer Bernard Mathews, famous for his tv advert catchphrase "bootiful", or bellissima in Italian.The yacht offered accommodation for up to 12 guests, and she had an interesting upper deck lounge, which could be opened on three sides, by sliding open large glass panels.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/148742/image/large-070b274a5727516efb9d0ec623f67241.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/148742">These days the yacht is called Lea, and she can be found just round the corner of Pisa's airport in Italy. It is unclear if she is still being used, or if she has been laid up. The yacht has been there for quite some time.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/148743/image/large-bae5484d7bdc8e1065d16c6340d49df9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/148743">If you have more information, including old photos of her, please feel free to submit them at <a href="mailto:yachts@superyachttimes.com">yachts@superyachttimes.com</a>By Maarten Janssen

The fate of superyacht Lea

Ocean Independence delightedly announced an in-house sale of the 49-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.0m (160'9&quot;)">Asteria</a> (ex: Asteri). Peter Thompson represented the buyer, whilst Peter Hürzeler and Axel Douqué represented the seller.<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/135455/image/large-1d98e0188945ce7a7f060071cc24666b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/135455"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1498" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asteria49.0m (160'9&quot;)">Asteria</a> was built in 1970 at the Anastassiades Shipyard, Greece, and was converted from 2000 to 2002 by Northport Engineering in New Zealand into a world cruising explorer superyacht.