Designer John Vickers reveals how&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Solace</a>&nbsp;was sensitively reimagined for family life and a multi-year global voyage, without losing the spirit that first defined her.In October 2025, the 57-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Solace</a>, originally delivered in 2005 under the name <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Twizzle</a> was relaunched at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pendennis Shipyard Ltd (Company)">Pendennis</a> in Falmouth. The 12-month refit at the British shipyard, overseen by the team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="JMS Yachting (Company)">JMS</a>, saw the yacht extended by two metres, a comprehensive interior redesign that restored her original elegance and a substantial systems overhaul. Together, these upgrades have prepared <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Solace</a>, which made her official debut at the Antigua Charter Show in December 2025, for a family-orientated global tour planned by her new owner. To understand how the project evolved into a full-scale refit, we sat down with John Vickers, founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4540" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vickers Studio (Company)">Vickers Studio</a>, to explore the thinking behind the project and the details that have set <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Solace</a> on course for her next chapter.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390095/image/large-14b93a3a42d5f423fa48f46b3fe14f73.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390095">Honouring a legacy&nbsp;For John, this project carried a rare sense of continuity. Having worked on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Twizzle</a>’s original design during his tenure at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a> in 2003, he returned to the yacht nearly two decades later at the request of her new owner; a young, highly informed yachtsman with a clear vision. “I had a real love affair with this boat,” John recalls “I learned an enormous amount from her build the first time around. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Twizzle</a> was the catalyst to a series of future yachts and returning to her, I wanted to honour that legacy. Fortunately, her owner is extremely well informed, with fantastic taste, which created a solid foundation for the design. He was also keen to honour that heritage and to bring back some of the magic that made her such a successful project originally, which was a real pleasure for us.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390100/image/large-cd9b61446f17ed474a24fc76f4934b01.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390100">The original brief was, on the surface, relatively contained; a 20-year special survey, technical rejuvenation and a considered refresh to support an ambitious family world tour, all while preserving the yacht’s underlying character. With the yacht originally conceived as a world cruiser and having sailed every ocean over the course of her life, preparing her for another global voyage was a natural continuation of that legacy. As planning progressed, the project gathered momentum, evolving into a far more comprehensive refit. The scope expanded to include a complete interior redesign alongside refinements to the general arrangement, notably the addition of a supernumerary cabin and a sauna. A full repaint was undertaken, complemented by an extensive mechanical programme that introduced forward-facing sonar, additional storage solutions and polar compliance, among a series of further enhancements.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390088/image/large-572885fba9ebdf3de67f82c9bb015e94.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390088">The introduction of the additional cabin was among the earliest decisions, with John sketching it into the original port-side tender bay during his very first inspection of the yacht, even before contracts were in place. A second key structural intervention focused on the transom, where the owner sought greater space and improved day-to-day functionality at sea level, particularly for children. The answer came in the form of a substantial swim platform extension, enhancing both the yacht’s proportions and her practicality, while creating a more generous, family-oriented waterside environment. Complementing this, the lazarette was reconfigured to accommodate a sauna – a detail that, for the owner, was an essential part of the brief.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390886/image/large-bbef239b92e8202517f6edd20cd26ea6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390886">Designed for familyThe refit also placed strong emphasis on how the yacht is used socially. Two new bars were introduced: one within the main saloon and another on the sundeck, each designed to feel like a natural extension of the yacht’s existing architecture rather than a ‘bolt-on’ addition.In the main saloon, the bar occupies the port-side position previously given over to a substantial cabinet, allowing it to be established as a permanent and purposeful feature. When integrating the bar into the existing scheme, programme constraints meant that, rather than extending the original cross-grain walnut, John and the team elected to use woven leather to form the body of the bar, topped with a marble surface selected to harmonise with the saloon’s restrained lighting palette. The result is a composition that sits comfortably within the existing structure, providing an elegant counterpoint to the stairwell balustrades on the starboard side and reinforcing the saloon’s sense of balance and cohesion.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390887/image/large-6e5c6a83e106589e0cf19407e1aa753a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390887">One of the standout features of the main saloon is the freestanding globe opposite the bar made by Bellerby Globe Co. that features the client’s destined world tour route engraved across its surface. Julie Baron from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4540" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vickers Studio (Company)">Vickers Studio</a> explains, “The globe was one of the first items the client chose, developed with the makers over a six month period and he was very clear that it was to be one of the fundamental features of the main saloon.” Like the globe, the client's choice of art is a striking feature of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Solace</a>’s final design, with pieces from artists such as James Turell and Yves Klein, to Asger Jorn and Picasso accompanying the owner’s own photography throughout the interior.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390108/image/large-a478c4ca15234684b6e2569b4f66c800.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390108">Like the art, the client was also deeply involved in the furniture selection throughout the interior, with the Vickers’ team visiting many contemporary makers and antiques auctions around London alongside the owner, to select special pieces that aligned with the mid-century modern interior styling. Many of the antique pieces were then reupholstered, such as the Ponte chairs in the main saloon, using spectacular textured fabrics that pull the entire design together. Particular standout materials include the patterned headboards in the staterooms, the twin blue armchairs in the upper deck saloon and a monochromatic tiger print sofa in the study, all of which were selected by the team alongside the client.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390099/image/large-ce705583256f86999be4cb3ebf485f4f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390099">Meanwhile, the upper deck saloon has been redesigned to create a particularly intimate atmosphere, with low-backed sofas and generously proportioned cushions set into the window boxes, maximising the natural light from her large windows. Lighting also played a central role in the refit, with the finished interiors showcasing just how transformative the scheme has been. While all LED lighting was replaced throughout, John returned to John Cullen, the same firm responsible for the yacht’s original lighting in 2005, and invited lighting designer Sally Storey back to rework the scene settings. Notably, Twizzle was Storey’s first yacht project, lending the collaboration yet another fitting sense of continuity.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390111/image/large-f743c676a3a9cf1f688d29d1a8ce0d2c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390111">On deck living redefinedExternally the sundeck arrangement has been refined so that the space reads as an inviting, practical terrace rather than a deck dressed for show. A previous coffee-table arrangement was converted into a formal dining set-up, creating a more useful zone amidships. A new bar was added aft, finished with a marble top, a simple teak kickback and custom bar stools, reinforcing the deck’s role as a social hub.On the bridge deck aft, the dining table was enlarged to seat 14, an explicit response to the owner’s intention to cruise with a large family aboard for extended periods. Deep, comfortable corner seating was also introduced to improve lounging and forward views.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390092/image/large-1038c4ed24b7c51eec448288fa78443e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390092">At main deck level, the removal of a bar improved circulation and created a stronger ‘welcome moment’ when guests step onboard, opening the aft area for drinks and conversation before moving inside. Custom blue upholstery was selected for the loose furniture on the aft deck that ties in beautifully with the armchairs in the upper deck saloon, adding to that continuity of design that flows throughout the yacht.Tying these exterior updates together is a new exterior colour palette. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Solace</a> now presents with an off-white base and a dark superstructure tone that carries a subtle brown warmth, designed to shift character in different light and provide a more sophisticated visual temperature than a colder monochrome.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390090/image/large-ba3d4374529ee39cf309e79b63871dc5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390090">For John, returning to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Solace</a> nearly twenty years after first working on her design offered a rare opportunity to close a creative circle. “Few designers get the chance to revisit such a familiar yacht, let alone with an owner so closely aligned in vision and taste. We were guided by a clear respect for the yacht’s original character and we have evolved the design without losing the qualities that first defined her.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390098/image/large-31228b1cb6e073f200c86a66c645212e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390098">Central to that evolution is an owner whose confidence in art, design and craftsmanship has shaped the yacht at every level. From the carefully curated artworks to the tactile richness of the furniture and materials, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Solace</a> now reflects a highly personal yet quietly assured aesthetic, one that feels both considered and enduring.As she prepares to depart on a global tour with family at her heart, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/259" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Solace57.0m (187'0&quot;)Feadship2005">Solace</a> embarks on her next chapter renewed in spirit and capability. Reimagined with sensitivity and purpose, she stands as a testament to thoughtful ownership, long-term design relationships and the enduring value of returning to first principles – even two decades on.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390104/image/large-b9bd57f78f6131d982a50b605e633287.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390104">This article was first published in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-56" target="_blank">issue 56</a> of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, available for download <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-56" target="_blank">here</a>.

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Designer John Vickers reveals how Solace was sensitively reimagined for family life, without losing the spirit that first defined her.

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Twizzle reimagined: Behind the refit of an iconic 50m Feadship

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Leona Caanen sits down with Toby Nowlan, wildlife director and producer of Ocean with David Attenborough, to discuss the involvement of the superyacht industry in preserving marine life.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390895/image/large-9f82b5a0082151442b31ed7620f9a9b5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390895">In a continuously changing world, the superyacht industry must, too, evolve. Rather than follow trends, the superyacht industry is in a unique position to set the example, especially when it comes to ocean preservation. For the refit issue (issue 56) of SuperYacht Times, Features Editor Leona Caanen sat down with Toby Nowlan, wildlife producer and director, ocean enthusiast, and producer of the recent documentary, Ocean with David Attenborough, to discuss ways to ensure ocean preservation, and what superyacht owners, builders and guests can to ensure this ecosystem is well-cared for. One may wonder what a wildlife cinematographer has to do with superyachts; the answer lies in a shared truth: a healthy ocean underpins both industries.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390898/image/large-8311117456f76c76cc8b7a36fdcfe2b0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390898">The importance of the seasToby and I met during last year’s Monaco Yacht Show, which has increasingly positioned itself as a forum for environmental discussion, with panels addressing noise pollution, technological innovation and operational responsibility. The SuperYacht Times&nbsp;team hosted several of these conversations, reflecting a wider industry effort to move sustainability from the margins to the main stage.The yacht show also hosted a screening of Toby’s feature-length documentary, Ocean with David Attenborough, filmed over four years and across vast stretches of open ocean, tracing both the degradation and the extraordinary capacity for recovery within the world’s oceans. “We were filming way out in the middle of the Pacific, in the Papahānaumokuakeā, the largest marine conservation area in the world. Because it's so well protected, endangered albatrosses have recovered there in this huge number; it's the world's biggest albatross colony, there’s millions of them.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390896/image/large-a684f64d281401982dbe5f49aa462613.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390896">Toby‘s relationship with the ocean has been shaped by nearly two decades of working in some of the planet’s most remote marine environments, documenting life both above and below the surface. His career has unfolded through prolonged periods at sea, where the ocean is not an abstract subject but a dynamic system he has spent years navigating, observing and, at times, surviving within. Toby has contributed to some of the most influential natural history productions of recent years, including Planet Earth II, A Perfect Planet and Our Planet II.&nbsp;His latest film traces both the damage inflicted upon marine ecosystems and their extraordinary capacity for recovery when protected. For Toby, that balance was essential: The ocean’s story, he believes, must move beyond beauty alone and towards evidence of what protection can achieve.Yet if the oceans are to recover from the insurmountable damage that has already been done, there needs to be a sense of urgency and cross-sectoral involvement. For Nowlan, the urgency is not theoretical. ‘Four billion people rely on the ocean for food,’ he explains, noting that marine protection delivers faster and more dramatic recovery than comparable efforts on land. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390897/image/large-b0dedf974deae1828d76df5a92582a41.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390897">Protecting parts of the ocean from the most destructive practices, rather than attempting to safeguard everything at once, has already resulted in tangible gains for biodiversity, fisheries and coastal economies. Healthy coastal economies tie in directly with yachting. Most superyachts aren’t found in the middle of the Atlantic or Pacific, instead, they gather along coastlines, seeking white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters and landscapes yet untouched.Few people spend as much time in protected marine areas as Toby, witnessing first-hand how quickly life returns when destructive practices are removed. From the albatross colonies of Papahānaumokuakeā to fleeting moments of abundance in the open ocean, these encounters underpin his conviction that recovery is both real and measurable. While not part of the superyacht industry, Nowlan recognises its unparalleled access to places most will never see. With that access, he argues, comes an obligation to protect the very environments that make such journeys possible.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390900/image/large-6d7a78723699e0fdb036cfae6fd04bf4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390900">A sustainable ocean‘Sustainability’ is an overused term, diluted by repetition and superficial application. In yachting, as elsewhere, it risks becoming a marketing label rather than a framework for accountability. In the superyacht industry there is a deep misconception that ‘sustainability is just that: a buzzword. For those who dare to look a little deeper, this sentiment rings untrue, with various organisations, suppliers and shipyards leading the industry towards actively changing the narrative.&nbsp;Nowlan is cautious but optimistic. Real progress, he argues, must extend beyond technology into regulation, enforcement and collective will. “Protecting the ocean is not anti-industry,” he says. “It is pro-abundance.” Ocean with David Attenborough deliberately centres fishermen, coastal communities and industry stakeholders, framing conservation not as restriction but as long-term viability.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390902/image/large-16ea93a7dadce2f8415c41eef4b62cb7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390902">Industry leaders have echoed this sentiment. Last year, SuperYacht Times spoke with Peter Lürssen, who emphasised: “if we do not have a healthy ocean, why be on a yacht at all?” His comment resonates increasingly across the industry as shipyards explore environmentally friendly alternatives, including hybrid propulsion, alternative fuels and energy recovery systems. Sailing yachts with DynaRigs, catamarans equipped with expansive solar arrays and vessels capable of powering onboard systems through regenerative sailing all point towards a more integrated relationship between design and environment.Importantly, sustainability is not limited to new-builds. Existing superyachts can be refitted to meet contemporary environmental expectations. “One of the biggest issues that the superyacht industry has put under scrutiny for is waste; but they could lead the change, they’re in a position to take charge in many areas, especially in bolstering ocean protection” Toby notes. There are various companies aimed at improving onboard systems and reducing waste, as well as extending a yacht’s operational life while lessening its ecological footprint. Change, in this context, is adaptive rather than disposable.Underlying these developments is a discernible shift in owner priorities. A new generation is seeking yachts that align with broader values, favouring efficiency, transparency and purpose alongside performance and comfort. While luxury remains intrinsic to the sector, it is increasingly tempered by an awareness that enjoyment of the ocean depends on its preservation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289155/image/large-2f43a8449a99622302d805161cb2a5be.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289155">Research onboard superyachtsA recent trend in new-builds, as well as in refits, has been the inclusion of science: whether space to host scientists and their gear onboard, to full-blown research labs. It ranges from superyachts the likes of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10859" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Scintilla Maris 45.6m (149'7&quot;)Damen Maaskant Shipyards1988">Scintilla Maris</a> (45.6m), who recently went on her first voyage with Yachts for Science, to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6355" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="REV Ocean194.9m (639'5&quot;)Vard Group AS2027">REV Ocean</a>, world’s biggest superyacht currently in-build, who will dedicate 75 percent of her voyages to oceanic research. These vessels not only enable scientists to travel to remote regions and deepen their research, but brings superyacht owners and charter guests face to face with foundations like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a>, producers like Toby and biologists like David Attenborough, are so desperately trying to preserve.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/351764/image/large-4aa90fee396121334873d8c53b85202e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/351764"><a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/blue-marine-foundation" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Read: Blue Marine Foundation: How yacht owners are protecting the ocean</a>For Toby, this access to such remote regions of the world carries responsibility: “Superyacht owners and guests see an ocean that most of the world never will,” he notes. “‘That makes stewardship even more imperative.” Toby adds, “the industry is built on a place of luxury and enjoyment of the ocean, meaning they have a greater responsibility and ability to push for ocean protection. They should be at the forefront of it, and they can be, which is exciting.”The superyacht industry is undeniably a contributor to marine pollution, as any large-scale industry is. Yet it is also evolving, informed by science, driven by technological capability and increasingly guided by a shared love for the sea. As Toby observes, the sector is uniquely positioned to lead rather than follow.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390899/image/large-3b655e4f08d2e11a0b7ec7eb05a5adba.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390899">This article was first published in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-56" target="_blank">issue 56</a> of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, available for download <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-56" target="_blank">here</a>.

Toby Nowlan: "The superyacht industry should be at the forefront of ocean protection"

Toby Nowlan discusses how the superyacht industry can be more involved in the preservation of oceanic wildlife.

Based out of a waterfront studio in Helsinki,&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jarkko Jämsén - Aivan (Company)">Jarkko Jämsén</a>&nbsp;has become one of the most distinctive and quietly influential voices in contemporary yacht design. From superyachts to experimental multihulls and production boats to high-performance adventure vessels, his projects share a distinct signature: a calm, understated purity paired with engineering rigour.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390890/image/large-44637d7ec3ffe03bb9d0f79eeecaade7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390890"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jarkko Jämsén - Aivan (Company)">Jarkko Jämsén</a> has an easy confidence in his own vision and ability that is not unlike the way a good artisan handles a familiar tool. There is no posturing – just a quiet determination to find the right shape, the right line, the right feeling, the right technical solution. It derives from a philosophy that is baked into every decision he makes: respect for the client, accountability for the business, and an unwavering commitment to doing things the right way.&nbsp;In an industry where repeatable design DNA is stock-in-trade, one of Jarkko’s most unusual – and telling – practices is the way he handles intellectual property. He gives all design IP to the yacht owner, automatically, as a sign of respect.“I’m probably the only designer who does that,” he admits. “If I design a yacht for someone, it is theirs – philosophically and legally. I want the owner to know I won’t repeat their design, even if someone else tries to copy it later.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/181036/image/large-ae541e774741c2fb45bcca44e1523f25.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/181036">Keeping the feelingThis quiet courtesy forms the backbone of his long-term client relationships, which include the second owner of the 77.25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6300" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="81877.25m (253'5&quot;)Feadship2019">SYZYGY</a> with exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jarkko Jämsén - Aivan (Company)">Jarkko</a>, which he renamed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11246" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pi100.0m (328'1&quot;)Feadship2025">Pi</a>. He returned to both shipyard and designer to create a larger 100-metre version, also called <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11246" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pi100.0m (328'1&quot;)Feadship2025">Pi</a>, but with the same spirit as its predecessor – a challenge the studio approached not just by up-scaling, but through proportion and experience.“The goal wasn’t just to build a bigger version,” he explains. “That’s easy. It’s much harder to keep the same feeling.”In fact, the similarity between the two yachts is uncanny. The essence of the second <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11246" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pi100.0m (328'1&quot;)Feadship2025">Pi</a> launched in 2025 lies in its carefully preserved balance, which maintains the proportions and spatial rhythm of the earlier yacht. Guests experience the onboard spaces with much the same intimacy, even though the yacht is far more substantial in length and volume.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390892/image/large-b36358ff9fe498a2517ed16a6e47f20f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390892">With degrees in naval architecture, industrial design and wooden boat building, Jarkko reveals that the yacht’s exterior lines are rooted in traditional boatbuilding techniques. In the same way as designers once used lead weights to coax battens into natural curves, he used digital control points with the same sensitivity to bend straight lines. This approach lends <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11246" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pi100.0m (328'1&quot;)Feadship2025">Pi</a> its unmistakably fluid exterior lines, while the vertical bow with its extremely fine entry slices through the water, producing virtually no bow wave, minimal wake, and a strikingly dry ride.“The human eye instinctively recognises a natural curve,” he says. “When you use those traditional geometries – even digitally – the design just feels right.”Another of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11246" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pi100.0m (328'1&quot;)Feadship2025">Pi</a>’s defining elements is the full-height glazing, uninterrupted from deck to ceiling. The 2.4-metre-tall glass panes are very slightly double-curved. With flat glass, the reflection of the horizon moves with the yacht, but a gentle curvature slows that movement, making the view calmer and more natural.“When the original glass supplier said it couldn’t be done, we found another who could,” says the designer. “Design is often about persistence and belief.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390894/image/large-b3fd19f0de620de0f45d0de99210f80d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390894">Squiggle vs spiralJarkko’s reputation is tied to superyachts (he calculates he is currently responsible for €1.3 billion worth of new builds), but in reality his scope is far broader. Together with five co-partners, he runs three design companies that have around 150 projects on the go at any given time, spanning everything from glassware collections to helicopter landing lights, from graphic design and branding to agricultural harvesting machinery.“We do everything,” he says with a shrug. “Toiletries, superyachts, food packaging, book covers, 3D-printed titanium taps – you name it.”The sheer breadth is disorienting, but behind it all is a tight system. With over 100 employees, the studio moves fluidly between industrial design, naval architecture, CGI, and product development in a blend of creative chaos and disciplined engineering. Jarkko calls it the tension between the “design squiggle” – the messy, exploratory process of pure creativity – and the “design spiral,” the naval architect’s meticulous, iterative approach.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/370705/image/large-e60d33cc45c6728d3b03cc1c13882c40.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/370705">“We have to control the squiggle,” he says. “Otherwise nothing would ever get finished. Design is not just about how a thing looks – it’s about systems, machinery, interfaces and workflows.”In the studio‘s reception area is a low table with the words “Let’s Solve It” etched into its stone surface – a neat summary of the design process of finding solutions to a specific need or improving a human experience. To keep that process moving, the team uses a strict gate system from first concept through to completion. Each gate locks the project, allowing engineers, CFD teams, FEM specialists and industrial designers to work in sync without being dragged endlessly back to the drawing board.The yacht design team – comprising 40 specialists and grouped under the Navia white-label design agency – also works on smaller composite boat projects such as Axopar, Brabus Marine, Candela, Targa and the new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/16336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Magellano 27M27.0m (88'7&quot;)">Magellano 27M</a> for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a>. Its output is astonishing, with over 1,000 mould files designed each year for the various brands it works with.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/370704/image/large-3d9e63a615dc84b62b307ba6decd3266.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/370704">Efficiency over ideologyInevitably, perhaps, the discussion swings to sustainability, a topic that often frustrates Jarkko – not because he rejects the idea, but because he rejects simplistic versions of it. As a naval architect, he prefers to champion efficiency: light displacement, smart hull forms, hybrid systems, and hard science.&nbsp;“Sustainability is also connected to commercial feasibility,” he points out. “Designers often distance themselves from the business consequences of their work, but part of my job is to make money for our manufacturing clients. It’s easy to design something; creating a product that actually sells is the hard part.”The commercial reality in a small country like Finland with a population of just 5.7 million is that it has to attract outside talent to stay competitive. The Helsinki studio comprises some 20 different nationalities, each at the top of their respective fields. It is the continuous exchange and dialogue with these people that fuels his creativity and pushes him to keep learning, growing and improving.“Life becomes much more interesting when there are diverse perspectives,” he says. “Ideas need fresh air.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390893/image/large-f1a2f977d676f269126a574ed43a150c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390893">While the studio fully embraces advanced design tools – VR, FEM software, game-engine visualisation, and so on – it routinely builds full-scale prototypes of key projects. The most extreme example of this is the full-scale mock-up of a 70-metre, two-masted schooner housed in an industrial hangar next door. The massive wooden structure was built to test the spatial logic, ergonomics, crew flow, and technical routing that cannot be adequately simulated with just a headset.“Augmented and Virtual Reality are useful, but they can’t beat the real thing,” Jarkko argues. “Physical mock-ups eliminate ambiguity and force early decisions. They’re still the best way to see if something really works.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390891/image/large-826a0e0ac5a1436866e5f49666138663.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390891">Trust mattersWhen we step off the mock-up at the end of my tour, he reveals the project has been developed on the strength of just a handshake with the client – something that would be unthinkable for most designers working on a 70-metre superyacht with a build cost easily exceeding nine figures.“Owners can kill you with lawyers if they want – no contract will stop that,” he clarifies. “Trust matters more. You seal the deal with trust, then you deliver. That’s the real contract.”This article was first published in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-56" target="_blank">issue 56</a> of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, available for download <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-56" target="_blank">here</a>.

Design without compromise: The Jarkko Jämsén approach

Jarkko Jämsén's quiet yet distinctive influence on contemporary yacht design.

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"It’s easy to design something; creating a product that sells is the hard part”: Jarkko Jämsén on design

Francesca Webster sits down with&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8767" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eclipse Yacht Group (Company)">Eclipse Yacht Group</a>&nbsp;co-founders Liliana Lopez and Katya Hall to chat about their brand new brokerage<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8767" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eclipse Yacht Group (Company)">Eclipse Yacht Group</a>, founded by Liliana Lopez and Katya Hall, is one of the only female owned brokerages in the world. Based in Miami but with connections that span the globe, these two women are building the next era of yachting, based on their shared experience and exciting vision for the future.&nbsp;SuperYacht Times Editor in Chief Francesca Webster finds out more. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390233/image/large-fa3d94c29c196cf8a3117132371e547d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390233">How did&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8767" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eclipse Yacht Group (Company)">Eclipse Yachting</a>&nbsp;and your partnership come about?Liliana: Katya and I know each other from our days at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>, maybe even from before that. Katya had been working there for about six years before I joined, and we worked together for another five before Katya ventured elsewhere. We always stayed in touch and saw each other at FLIBS last year and both of us were looking to explore the next step.Katya: We ended up having lunch and wondered ‘what’s next?’. We have a similar view on business, on the industry and on people and building relationships: we get each other, which is so rare. We’re both very entrepreneurial. Lily had her own brokerage before, Propel Yachts, she had the best day charter agency in Miami.Liliana: We both experienced the growth of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> from a small business into a huge company with global offices, and it was great to be a part of that, but eventually you start to look at what’s next. You want more. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390229/image/large-9ffc5c945b92b30f334c64d33621e407.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390229">Why start&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8767" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Eclipse Yacht Group (Company)">Eclipse Yacht Group</a>&nbsp;now and what’s your modus-operandi?Katya: We have the experience, we have the knowledge, the connections, know the people, the shipyards, the industry. Why wait?Liliana: As two women starting our own brokerage house, we bring a new and fresh perspective; the opportunity to go about the work differently. Our focus will be both sales and charter: full service save yacht management.Katya: In the future we plan to add it. I started my career in yacht management. We like to think we have the perfect combination of experiences: I have experience in management, sales and retail charter, but it’s rare for a female broker to have experience in new construction and sales.Liliana: I bring the marketing corporate side, advertising, PR, entrepreneurial and the charter management component.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390232/image/large-79f037e94e9c67e8c1d6593f8b209c2e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390232">How do you see the client’s perception of a brokerage house run by two women?Liliana: Positive. A lot of our clients are male, but I think Katya and I bring a different component, one of emotion and understanding the emotion: understanding what drives people and discretion. As women I think we have a better understanding.Katya: We’re more intuitive to the client’s inner needs. Maybe they don’t know or can’t vocalise it, but we can see what drives them, what’s behind the asset, but also understanding what the wife wants and her role in the buying or chartering of a superyacht. While there’s a fantastic shift happening to more female owners and captains, the industry is still largely male, and often it’s the wife’s influence on whether a sale or a booking happens.How does your approach differ from the other companies out there?Liliana: We’re going to lean on innovation, technology, AI and are going to be very data driven. For me that’s always been my personal MO: the facts and the numbers don’t lie. If an owner comes up to me and is unhappy with how their yacht is chartering, I do a full scale comparison with other superyachts doing the same itinerary in the same size range to understand what the market is doing and how we can adjust to be on top of it. We’re in conversation right now with partners to develop really cool AI tools to help us streamline our work and be able to do a lot of the administrative work. We want to be productive and be ahead of the curve.Katya: We’ve actually taken a number of AI courses and are invested in it, pushing ourselves to understand and learn and to be able to incorporate it into our ethos.How does your approach to managing clients differ?Liliana: Our business model is a little different than the regular brokerage houses, which are often very segregated. If you manage a charter yacht and your client wants to sell the yacht or upgrade, they get immediately taken from you. Not every brokerage house lets you get your sales broker licence.Katya: There are some exceptions, where you can be both a retail charter and sales broker, and I luckily have that experience because I was working with a Russian client very keen on privacy who didn’t want another broker. I had to push to get it, but in the 10 years since I made the company a lot of money. Why would you not promote that?”Liliana: Trust is crucial in this industry and for a lot of clients, they don’t want to switch brokers when transitioning from charter to sales. If you come to work for us and you bring in or get a client, you build trust with that person and they remain your client. We will provide what the client needs; at the end of the day that is what matters. We think everyone needs to win in order for the client to win.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289301/image/large-c07fad90b534c3501173287dd9b6fd88.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289301">You’re based in Miami, do you envision a foothold in the Mediterranean?Katya: From a retail charter perspective, geography is far less important than trust and reputation. Charter clients tend to work with brokers they already know or who come highly recommended, regardless of where those brokers are based. As long as you have deep destination knowledge and strong relationships with yachts and crews in the Mediterranean, a physical presence isn’t essential.Liliana: That said, we spend a lot of time on the ground in the Med during the season. Being present at key moments allows us to stay closely connected to the yachts, the crews, and the destinations our clients care about, without needing a permanent base.Looking ahead, where do you see yourself in five years?Liliana: It’s about leaving some sort of footprint and legacy behind.&nbsp;Katya: Everyone says they want to be different, they want to innovate, to bring some fresh air into the data stream. For us, right now that is all talk, but in five years, we want to look back and reflect on all the ways we’ve innovated or actually added that different, fresh perspective.&nbsp;

Women in yacht brokerage: Redefining the industry with Eclipse Yacht Group

Eclipse Yacht Group founders discuss innovation, client trust and building a female-led brokerage in a male-led yachting industry.

Eclipse Yacht Group, the all-female brokerage: "We bring a fresh perspective"

Last October, Francesca Webster had the rare privilege to step aboard a truly history-shaping yacht – the 118.8-metre Feadship superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8907" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Breakthrough118.8m (389'9&quot;)Feadship2025">Breakthrough</a>. Aptly named, her moniker encapsulates the profound impact she has already made on the industry. While her position as the world’s first hydrogen fuel-cell superyacht has understandably drawn global attention, this technological milestone is only one part of a far richer story.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387292/image/large-adfe769e9032b19ceaf12c4b11cac15f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387292">Sold in 2019 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a>, who also oversaw her build, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8907" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Breakthrough118.8m (389'9&quot;)Feadship2025">Breakthrough</a> was conceived through an exceptionally ambitious and imaginative design. Responsible for her design in its entirety, British Design Studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a> was challenged at every level to rethink convention. The result is a yacht that moves well beyond the traditional, from her fluid exterior lines to an interior crafted to feel refined and intimate, despite a volume exceeding 7,000 GT. To understand what truly defines <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8907" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Breakthrough118.8m (389'9&quot;)Feadship2025">Breakthrough</a>, the team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a>, led by Director Charlie Baker, spoke with SuperYacht Times, offering insight into the design philosophy and processes that brought this remarkable yacht to life.Design in motionAt 118.8-metres, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8907" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Breakthrough118.8m (389'9&quot;)Feadship2025">Breakthrough</a> is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>’s new flagship and the largest private motor yacht by volume ever built in the Netherlands. Despite her impressive size, the yacht is exceptionally elegant, with an accentuated mast that elongates her overall aesthetic lines that flow from fore to aft in great sweeping arcs. For <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a>, her scale presented an immediate design challenge: how to accommodate immense volume without visual heaviness. For the studio, the solution lay not in aggressive styling, but in form and as a result, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8907" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Breakthrough118.8m (389'9&quot;)Feadship2025">Breakthrough’</a>s exterior is defined by softness and flow.“Our desire was to create something sculptural and enduring,” explains Sam Curson, Lead Exterior Designer. “A yacht that blended classic grace with contemporary refinement.” Light plays a central role in this composition. Surfaces are shaped to respond to reflections, allowing the yacht’s character to shift with the movement of the sun and sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387301/image/large-07b1d39c51cff15b6a0396a50ce74d4a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387301">Rather than relying on paint splits or graphics, the yacht’s profile is articulated through sculptural shaping. With long lines from both fore to aft and from her mast to her bow, the yacht’s hull and superstructure merge into a single, continuous composition, with subtle undercuts and transitions that break down mass and introduce shadow and depth.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387997/image/large-9967392278cad975f5e5c8cd6c7e2711.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387997">The deep blue hull tone amplifies this effect, creating a constant dialogue between water, sky and structure. Seen underway, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8907" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Breakthrough118.8m (389'9&quot;)Feadship2025">Breakthrough</a> feels alive, ‘a sculpture in motion’. From the water, she appears, in moments, to be part of her environment, rather than an object imposed upon it.&nbsp;These sculptural decisions also serve a practical purpose. By reducing overhangs and breaking up volume, more natural light is able to penetrate deep into the interior spaces, creating the sense of openness and connection to the sea that is felt throughout her interior.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387304/image/large-dcb490e5e00be500c6001bfc08ab3097.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387304">Twin cores of designCentral to the client’s brief was the desire to create a true home away from home, somewhere familiar, comfortable and flexible, despite her extraordinary volume. This led to one of the yacht’s most distinctive features: a general arrangement that effectively makes her two yachts in one.Guests are welcomed aboard through her beach club, which is illuminated from above by the glass floor of the main deck swimming pool. Like her exterior, light from the pool plays across her surfaces, and furnishings throughout the space offer guests a variety of spaces to lounge, drink and dine. It is both a welcome area and an additional saloon of its own, with fold down terraces on both sides offering a unique connection to the water that is rarely seen. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387306/image/large-4a59b5baa793445e1f471b8cfba8e8ac.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387306">Among her many standout features, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8907" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Breakthrough118.8m (389'9&quot;)Feadship2025">Breakthrough</a> features an underwater nemo lounge, accessed from the port side of the beach club, where the owner can step away from guests and enjoy a moment of privacy below the waves. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387303/image/large-150b6e3825328ce0ae7f4692c83cb184.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387303">The ability to move individually and privately was a major part of the yacht’s configuration and separate circulation routes were configured for the owners and their guests, allowing the owners to move freely throughout the vessel. Twin staircases and elevators mean they can travel from their private deck all the way to the water’s edge without ever crossing guest areas, while discrete doors on each level close the owner’s quarters off from the rest of the yacht without appearing to.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387990/image/large-89ac289bb8a3f735a832fa0a06ec57b3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387990">“You can get from the owners’ deck all the way down to the sea without going through any of the guest circulation,” explains the design team. “It creates a much more personal way of living on board.”This private ‘core’ forms the heart of the yacht. On each deck, intimate owner-only spaces offer moments of retreat: a quiet coffee spot with a puzzle table, a library and office nook filled with books, or a private lounge, dining area and sea cabin that opens directly to the water. Each of these unique spaces features a coffee and drinks station, offering the owner autonomy during their time aboard should they want it.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387305/image/large-aca89478229c99b2e26cb0bd1aee26ca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387305">These owner’s spaces are linked by an elegant spiral staircase, running through four decks. Along its wall, a vertical curiosity cabinet displays books, art and personal objects, subtly sharing the owners’ story, creating a flow, both through time and space.In contrast, the main guest staircase is a dramatic architectural statement. Inspired by the curves of a nautilus shell, it sweeps through the yacht. Curved stair nosings, glazed balustrades, a fumed eucalyptus handrail and a polished plaster stringer conceal all visible structures. At its centre, an 18-metre-high cylindrical glass and leather-wrapped elevator draws daylight down from a skylight above, once again flooding the space with natural light.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387995/image/large-d77cc5a32d065feb371f4341026388a5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387995">As guests move through the yacht, they are taken on a journey through an oceanscape by their surroundings. Lead Interior Designer Jack Canning explains, “It begins on the sandy sea floor in the beach club and lower deck, where timbers and textures are rustic, raw and natural. Lots of teak and open grain wood with coral details and rope.” As guests move up through the yacht, the finishes become more refined, representing different levels from the sea floor to the ocean depths and right up to the surface and seashore on the upper decks. The result of this subtle shift in tone and texture once again creates that connection between the yacht and her surroundings, with light playing a key role in her design from lower to upper deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387297/image/large-b94ff0e705824fe289d9b9e7c3730320.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387297">A celebration of craftsmanshipStandout interior features include the bridge deck saloon, the expansive owner’s stateroom with its truly jaw-dropping marble bathroom and the cinema, all of which left a lasting impression. On the main deck, the swimming pool, framed by sweeping 280 degree views, and the elegant surrounding terrace designed to offer guests countless ways to unwind while onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390163/image/large-a8bd476b412d50735a211e27b637cbdb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390163">One of the most striking features of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8907" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Breakthrough118.8m (389'9&quot;)Feadship2025">Breakthrough</a>’s interior design is the sense of calm it creates. Organic shapes heavily outweigh the linear, and each deck is home to intimate zones that feel welcoming, homely and comfortable, rather than overly grandiose or overwhelming. These intimate, more informal spaces were part of the clients desire to encourage ‘barefoot living’, part of the original brief; to offer guests the opportunity to relax without the fear of damaging precious surfaces. Her wow-factor lies in the subtle use of colour, texture and light, combined with the careful application of spectacular materials that are given the space to shine.&nbsp;As a result of this considered curation of materials and objects, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8907" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Breakthrough118.8m (389'9&quot;)Feadship2025">Breakthrough</a> is a celebration of craftsmanship at its most ambitious. More than eighty bespoke pieces were designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a> specifically for the yacht, each developed in collaboration with specialist artisans from around the world. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387992/image/large-4aca82e32d3663dc678729195422ec40.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387992">Among them is an 11-metre sofa – the largest ever produced by its maker – ingeniously designed to store the leaves for a 24-seat extending dining table. In the owner’s bathroom, Italian stoneworkers carved a solid-stone wall into a flowing, undulating surface that echoes the movement of waves. Elsewhere, hundreds of precisely waterjet-cut travertine pieces form a feature wall in the owners’ games space, each element just 20 millimetres thick.This attention to detail is at the heart of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a>’s team led approach as a design studio, with a breadth of in-house expertise and creativity, and a commitment to progress, shaping each project into a truly personal response to the brief.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387296/image/large-adab6302c90d8c6d1583903c6fc7bd48.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387296">Ultimately, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8907" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Breakthrough118.8m (389'9&quot;)Feadship2025">Breakthrough</a> represents a shift in how the world’s largest yachts can be conceived. Not as statements of excess, but as deeply personal sanctuaries shaped by light, texture and thoughtful space planning, informed by an owner with a grand vision and the dedicated team they selected to see it to fruition. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8907" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Breakthrough118.8m (389'9&quot;)Feadship2025">Breakthrough</a> is a yacht designed not just to impress, but to be lived in.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/381825/image/large-2a64e82a62f9c7d97fa47d0e35ba505a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/381825">This article was first published in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-56" target="_blank">issue 56</a> of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, available for download <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-56" target="_blank">here</a>.

Feadship yacht Breakthrough interior

 RWD sheds light on the design of Breakthrough, Feadships flagship and the world’s first fuel cell superyacht.

Designing Breakthrough: Inside Feadship’s 119m superyacht with RWD

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine Foundation</a>&nbsp;sits down with SuperYacht Times to discuss how the superyacht industry can directly impact oceanic well-being.&nbsp;For those of us who spend time at sea, ocean health is never abstract. It is reflected in the marine life we enjoy, whether through diving, swimming or cruising through its waters onboard a superyacht. As a result of this direct connection to the sea, superyacht owners are placing an increasing importance on the ocean’s well-being. SuperYacht Times &nbsp;sat down with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a>, who has been caring for and conserving the ocean for the past sixteen years.   &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389563/image/large-64e9df1ce1a28a1c48d1bf7c28a98109.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389563">Action to protect our ocean  &nbsp;Based in the UK is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a>, a conservation charity based in the UK, works globally to protect and restore life in the ocean. Its mission is to secure effective protection for at least 30 percent of the ocean by 2030 and to ensure sustainable management of the whole ocean. When <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a> first launched in 2010, only 0.8 percent of the world’s ocean was protected. Sixteen years later that figure stands at 9.6 percent and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a> has ensured protection of more than 4.5 million square kilometres of ocean.   <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389570/image/large-a51dbbedf98d3ba5eb97e4a020adb8b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389570" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Currently, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a>  is working on 75 projects, which are science led and partnership driven. Currently, the charity is operating across 29 countries with over 266 partners, consisting of players such as governments, local partners, communities and fishers. Durable protection depends on local support and effective management. The result is recovery that can be measured, enforced and sustained and that recovery rate can be relatively fast in the marine environment. &nbsp;Within these projects, the organisation focuses on three strategic goals. First is the creation and strengthening of marine protected areas that deliver real ecological benefit. Second is the support for sustainable fisheries, so fish stocks and coastal livelihoods remain viable. Lastly, the restoration of critical habitats such as kelp forests, seagrass meadows and coral reefs that underpin ocean health and climate resilience.   <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389564/image/large-86ec633f24b21a767797d8968f26814e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389564">Join the ocean’s favourite club&nbsp;“In 2012 we launched the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a> Yacht Club (BMYC) with Prince Albert II of Monaco, its Founding Patron,” shares Sara-Jane, Head of Partnerships. “By putting the superyacht community on the front line of marine conservation, the BMYC mobilises an industry that loves and relies on the ocean, one that can direct major resources into tackling the problems the ocean faces.” The Club’s members play an active role in ensuring that our ocean remains healthy and a resource to be enjoyed by future generations, lending their support not just with financial donations, but with their influence, connections and expertise. This enables <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a> to unlock new project areas, increase global marine protection and restore vital sea habitats.  &nbsp;The BMYC is among the most exclusive clubs in the world, one in which every single member has demonstrated a deep and lasting commitment to protecting the ocean.   <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389542/image/large-8de78842e02c312899e172b30b3a793e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389542">What yacht owners have already achieved  &nbsp;Support from yacht owners has already delivered results at scale. One of the most significant examples is a €2 million endowment from Peter Lürssen which helped secure protection for 445,000 square kilometres of Ascension Island’s waters, now one of the largest and most effective marine protected areas in the world.  &nbsp;More recently, support linked to a Lürssen new build has enabled <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a> to expand its work in the Maldives. The donation made is helping locate and establish the first marine protected areas across the Thaa Atoll, one of the country’s most climate affected regions. This funding supports citizen science programmes and the restoration of ecosystems that underpin the Maldives’s ‘one by one’ tuna fishery.   Across <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a>’s wider portfolio, yacht owner support has enabled similar progress, from large scale marine protection in remote regions both offshore and inshore, to focused fisheries reform in heavily used coastal waters, and restoration of endangered species and degraded habitats at a seascape level. Each and every BMYC member is contributing to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a>’s progress, impact and success. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389568/image/large-9c2cc2df1990864e40017de22a862b9a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389568">Why this matters to yachting  &nbsp;The ocean produces around half of the oxygen we breathe, absorbs more carbon dioxide than all the world’s forests combined and covers over 70 per cent of the planet. It is the most important ecosystem on Earth and one under increasing pressure.  &nbsp;Yachts offer unparalleled access to some of the most ecologically sensitive and most beautiful parts of the ocean. With that access comes a responsibility to ensure these areas are safeguarded for the future.  &nbsp;The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a> Yacht Club allows yacht owners to support conservation that is capable of delivery at a meaningful scale.   <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389569/image/large-5b710b7df1a0fa2996d11da5736fdf00.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389569" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">A practical way to contribute  &nbsp; As the superyacht sector continues to evolve and the number of new build yachts increases, there’s an increased importance to care for the ocean. Support for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a>’s work allows yacht owners to take part in that shift and help secure a viable future for the ocean that sustains yachting itself.  <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389571/image/large-7a6cd58bb4950dd38b652d5f6b8c7d17.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389571" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Get in touch with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a> to actively support the ocean: sarajane@bluemarinefoundation.com You can find out more about <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Blue Marine Foundation (Company)">Blue Marine</a>  on their website <a href="https://www.bluemarinefoundation.com/" target="_blank">bluemarinefoundation.com/</a>

Blue Marine Foundation: How yacht owners are protecting the ocean 

Blue Marine Foundation explores how yacht owners and the superyacht industry are helping protect ocean health and marine ecosystems.

With an eye for ‘the next big thing’ and a passion for boating, Tim Ciasulli’s approach to yacht ownership is far from the usual. Francesca Webster finds out more.There are yacht owners who follow the market and then there are those who push it forward. Tim Ciasulli sits firmly in the latter camp; a serial owner with an American-Italian sensibility, a lifetime of offshore racing in his bloodstream and a habit of commissioning the first hull when the rest of the world is still waiting to see whether a concept will land.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/183760/image/large-d30e130db7f957d1f23a8733b1f89ff1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/183760">His route into the upper echelons of yacht ownership was never going to be typical. Ciasulli’s formative years were spent on the Manasquan River in New Jersey, where the annual offshore spectacle of the Hennessy Grand Prix left an indelible impression. He remembers watching the big muscle powerboats disappear into fog, returning battered, sometimes with crews worse for wear and thinking, simply, that he had to do it one day.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388385/image/large-1581001d96510f8e91f7372c25bb7461.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388385">He did rather more than that. Across four decades he competed in more than 300 races, winning roughly a third of them and earning four world speed records, including an American Power Boat Association Class Two world record of 117.81 mph on the Detroit River in 1984.Yet what makes Ciasulli particularly relevant to today’s yachting conversation is not only the racing pedigree. It is how he has carried the racer’s mindset – finish to finish first – into the superyacht space, applying the same uncompromising emphasis on preparation, rigour and weight discipline to vessels built for leisure. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388383/image/large-438300d3149fd86cdc64435ba0aa70a9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388383">From powerboat to superyacht&nbsp;Ciasulli’s professional life has long sat close to the water of performance and sales. He speaks the language of dealerships as fluently as the language of hull forms, shaped by decades in the American marine and automotive worlds. The lesson he returns to is simple: style sells, but only when it is backed by substance.That duality, showroom instinct paired with engineering respect, explains his willingness to back bold platforms early. It also explains why he tends to be hands-on. When he commits, he commits properly, whether that means pushing for better build discipline, interrogating weight creep or insisting that yard communication stays frequent and frank. “Bad news is best served early,” he says, because it gives everyone time to solve it.That approach was tested during the COVID-era build environment, when travel restrictions and quarantines turned routine yard visits into a logistical exercise. It sharpened his belief that transparency &nbsp;and communication is not an optional extra but a core part of the owner experience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388408/image/large-cb71e1039b2b217fd2437ee557f99270.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388408"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7198" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Debra One40.8m (133'10&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Rebeca</a>&nbsp;and the ‘Oasis effect’If Ciasulli’s ownership story has a defining chapter, it is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7198" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Debra One40.8m (133'10&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Rebeca</a>, the first <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> Oasis 40M, delivered as the inaugural example of what would become one of the decade’s most influential and successful production platforms.Ciasulli’s explanation of its appeal is telling. He did not buy the yacht because it was a safe bet. He bought it because it answered a question that designers had been circling for years: how do people actually use their yachts? In his view, the Oasis succeeded because it reoriented the experience towards the sea, turning the aft end into a social, low-to-the-water hub rather than a conventional deck arrangement that still looked inward.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388387/image/large-eb678f51ba1a490eeffc6fef79111e46.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388387">The formula resonated. The series’ popularity is widely acknowledged and the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7198" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Debra One40.8m (133'10&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Rebeca</a> story has become a case study in how first-hull risk can translate into real-world value when the concept is right.Ciasulli also points to the importance of surrounding yourself with creative partners who are unburdened by assumptions. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7198" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Debra One40.8m (133'10&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Rebeca</a>’s design team, including <a href="http://RWD" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">RWD</a> and interior designer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5263" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bonetti / Kozerski architecture DPC (Company)">Bonetti/Kozerski</a>, approached the brief without the “this is how it has always been done” mindset; an attitude Ciasulli consistently rewards.When the time came to sell, the outcome validated the strategy. After extensive personal use, he sold for an offer that made even a seasoned owner pause, and the subsequent success of the model on the resale market has demonstrated his eye for a winner. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388409/image/large-a127682a1cab23a42a20a440bfece18a.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388409">A change of pace&nbsp;After the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>, Ciasulli missed one thing acutely: pace. A 40-metre displacement yacht cruising in the low teens is civilised, but it does not scratch the same itch as a machine built to cover ground. Enter <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1205" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AB Yachts (Company)">AB Yachts</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12736" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="50 Shades of Play33.7m (110'7&quot;)AB Yachts2024">Fifty Shades of Play</a>, a 33.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1205" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AB Yachts (Company)">AB</a> 110 delivered in 2025 and conceived around the sort of high-speed, long-range island hopping that suits his temperament.For Ciasulli, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1205" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AB Yachts (Company)">AB</a> is not merely about top-end numbers. It is about what speed unlocks: the ability to compress itineraries, to move with spontaneity and to make a weekend feel expansive. He also praises its unexpectedly generous lower-deck accommodation, describing a sense of volume that belies the profile – a recurring theme in his ownership choices. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388384/image/large-d96b00f52428ac7db23f3d4b76ad4a24.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388384">A penthouse without bulkheadsIf <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7198" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Debra One40.8m (133'10&quot;)Benetti SpA2020">Rebeca</a> was about changing the aft-end lifestyle, the first <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maiora (Company)">Maiora</a> Exuma 42, his latest purchase which is due to be delivered in 2027, is about rewriting the internal hierarchy of a 42-metre altogether.Ciasulli has commissioned Hull 1, currently in-build, taking the Oasis philosophy and, as he puts it, bringing it “to the next level” with two decks of fold-down terraces and an owner-focused arrangement that treats space like real estate rather than tradition. Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cassetta Yacht Designers (Company)">Giorgio Cassetta</a>, Tim sees the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/536" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maiora (Company)">Maiora</a> as the next step in onboard living. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365454/image/large-113a0a333f053cfcde38b67cac5b41a3.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365454">The headline move is architectural: main-deck staterooms, floor-to-ceiling glazing and the removal of a conventional main saloon, replaced by spaces he believes will be used more often. His most evocative description is of the owner’s deck: no bulkheads running from stern to bow, creating the sensation of a single, expansive penthouse. The pool sits on this level, designed with a glass bottom to wash the seating area beneath in blue light.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388386/image/large-54ebe8e7c0ffc3f5f3ae89f3ccfacaa9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388386">It is not a concept for everyone. It is, however, unmistakably aligned with his own behaviour aboard; dining and socialising outdoors, maximising connection to the sea and prioritising guest cabins that feel far larger than the yacht’s length suggests.Even the name Exuma is not accidental. Ciasulli has spent deep time cruising the Bahamas and is candid about the limitations large yachts face in shallow, coral-rich cruising grounds. The Exuma 42’s waterjet set-up and shallow draft ambitions are designed to keep that playground accessible without sacrificing speed. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365455/image/large-ae739c3a612dd7f7ab0a3990b6dc13a7.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365455">The Ciassuli signatureCiasulli has won at the highest level, afloat and ashore. He tells a story from Key West that captures his racing ethos in one turn – a high-speed, high-stakes manoeuvre that ended with a handshake from a legend and a win on the board. It is the same willingness to take a calculated chance that now shows up in his yacht portfolio.If there is one word he uses to define himself, it is not “speed” or “style”. It is persistence and the belief that determination, more than talent or education, is what actually moves the needle.In an industry increasingly shaped by lifestyle-driven design and owners who want their yachts to feel less like formal vessels and more like floating resorts, Ciasulli’s instincts look less like personal preference and more like a preview. He is not simply buying yachts. He is backing ideas early, loudly and with the confidence of someone who has spent a lifetime trusting the line he chooses.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365453/image/large-27fec0799f9a3bd9d70455fac5c8ab02.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365453">

The Ciasulli Playbook: Inside Tim Ciasulli’s signature approach to yacht ownership

Explore how Tim Ciasulli approaches yacht ownership, from powerboat to superyacht, highlighting the Benetti Oasis 40M.

Launched in 1865, the now 145.72-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2837" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="El Mahrousa145.72m (478'1&quot;)Samuda Bros.1865">El Mahrousa</a> has spent her years serving as a royal vessel, a state yacht and a witness to political transformation in Egypt for more than 160 years. Commissioned by Khedive Ismail Pasha and built by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1648" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Samuda Bros. (Company)">Samuda Brothers</a> shipyard in London, construction on Egypt’s first royal yacht began in 1863.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/3536/image/large-b202bae6ba9f51d9cba24b458a21b241.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/3536">Built with a steel hull and fitted initially with paddle wheels, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2837" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="El Mahrousa145.72m (478'1&quot;)Samuda Bros.1865">El Mahrousa</a> was one of the largest and most advanced yachts of her era. Her owner Khedive Ismail had also requested that the vessel’s interiors reflect the richness of the civilisations that had flourished in Egypt. The result was an opulent design that combined European craftsmanship, with Middle Eastern decorative traditions. When the yacht was delivered in 1865, Ismail travelled to Istanbul to board her for her maiden voyage to Alexandria, Egypt.In 1868, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2837" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="El Mahrousa145.72m (478'1&quot;)Samuda Bros.1865">El Mahrousa</a> became central to one of the 19th century’s defining maritime events, when Ismail used the yacht to tour Europe, inviting kings and princes to attend the opening of the Suez Canal. On 17 November 1869, the yacht led the multinational fleet that sailed through the canal during its inauguration.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/382614/image/large-386503509531b9df70e5901f6eeb6ed9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/382614">Distinguished guests included Empress Eugénie of France who presented Ismail with a piano, which she played during the ceremony, as well as the Emperor of Austria, the Crown Prince of Germany, Prince Hendrik of the Netherlands and French diplomat Ferdinand de Lesseps, who was responsible for the construction of the Suez Canal.In 1872, the yacht was sent to London by Isma'il Pasha to increase her length from 125-metres to 137.5-metres. Several years later in 1905, she was sent to Glasgow by Khedive Abbas Hilmi II, where her paddle wheels were removed in favour of a more efficient screw-propeller steam system, while in 1912 a telegraph pole was installed.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/385853/image/large-60a03fb3d29eeb5a4ff1c0e9b9f40df3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/385853">For the following five years, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2837" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="El Mahrousa145.72m (478'1&quot;)Samuda Bros.1865">El Mahrousa</a> stayed anchored in Istanbul in order to protect her from the dangers of the First World War. In 1919, while Egyptians were amidst the revolution, the yacht was sent to England by King Fuad I to change the shape of her aft and increase her length by eight-metres, to her current length of 146-metres.&nbsp;In 1939, King Farouk I of Egypt sent the yacht to Iran to bring the Crown Prince Mohammed Reza Pahlavi to the wedding of his sister, Princess Fawzia. Just seven years later, the yacht was sent to Jeddah and back by King Farouk, where she hosted King Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia for his visit to Egypt. Upon his arrival, King Farouk had arranged a parade in celebration of Saudi Arabia’s national anniversary, becoming a landmark in the history of the Saudi Egyptian bilateral relations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/385852/image/large-b6863a98073f0bf1304cce0b2a058391.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/385852">Following this, in 1949, the yacht was sent to the port of La Spezia, where the Italian company Ansaldo performed a series of renovations and modifications involving her propulsion capacity.A fifth deck was added in January 1952, and the same year, King Farouk departed Egypt onboard the yacht as he went into exile alongside Khedive Ismail and Khedive Abbas II, marking the end of the monarchy. Rather than being decommissioned, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2837" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="El Mahrousa145.72m (478'1&quot;)Samuda Bros.1865">El Mahrousa</a> was retained as Egypt’s official presidential yacht for Mohamed Najib, becoming part of national heritage. Her name was later changed to El Horreya (meaning Liberty) by his successor Gamal Abdul Nasser, who regarded the yacht as a symbol of Egyptian pride. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/385850/image/large-0338766b54b95efc64248be401c560cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/385850">On 5 June 1975, President Anwar Sadat insisted that the yacht would be the first vessel to sail through the Suez Canal for its second inauguration, to emphasise the return of Egypt’s glory. In 1976, the yacht sailed its longest journey yet of 12,700 nautical miles to participate in the bicentennial celebration of the Independence of the United States of America, and in 2000 a presidential decree was issued, giving the yacht back its old name of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2837" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="El Mahrousa145.72m (478'1&quot;)Samuda Bros.1865">El Mahrousa</a>. &nbsp;Today, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2837" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="El Mahrousa145.72m (478'1&quot;)Samuda Bros.1865">El Mahrousa</a> is maintained by the Egyptian Navy and is occasionally opened for official visits and national celebrations. She appeared during the opening of the New Suez Canal in 2015, linking her 19th-century origins to a 21st-century milestone and reinforcing her enduring importance in Egypt’s maritime identity.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/385851/image/large-a93b5dc476d9347b89825eb42fcbd661.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/385851"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2837" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="El Mahrousa145.72m (478'1&quot;)Samuda Bros.1865">El Mahrousa</a> is currently the oldest yacht in the <a href="https://iq.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht iQ</a> database, surpassing the next oldest yacht in service by six years. There are currently over 14,000 yachts within the database, from over 1,500 builders and 66 countries. If you would like to find out more about <a href="https://iq.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht iQ</a>&nbsp;and its database, then please visit: <a target="_blank">www.sytiq.superyachttimes.com/</a>

el mahrousa oldest royal yacht egypt

Sophie Spicknell explores the 160-year history of El Mahrousa, Egypt’s storied royal and presidential yacht.

The legacy of El Mahrousa: Egypt’s oldest royal yacht

SuperYacht Times writer Andrea Pefianco sat down with Didier Novo of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8718" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="LXV (Company)">LXV Philippines</a> to explore the secluded islands, caves and crystalline lagoons that make the stunning archipelagic province of Palawan one of Asia’s premier luxury cruising destinations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387466/image/large-d386c595337c5e6c4f45ebb68b455295.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387466">Out of more than 7,000 islands in the Philippines, the province of Palawan boasts over 1,700 islands and inlets, making it the perfect setting for the ultimate luxury island-hopping experience. Located in the southwest of the archipelagic nation, Palawan is known as the Philippines’ “last ecological frontier.”It is home to mesmerising crystal-clear lagoons framed by towering limestone cliffs, world-class diving with whale sharks and manta rays at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tubbataha Reefs and rich terrestrial biodiversity, which houses the Palawan hornbill and other endemic species.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387470/image/large-04008f15ca9db70f88121ec49f72a5fd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387470">Much of this richness exists because Palawan is biogeographically linked to Borneo, forming part of the Sundaland region. This ancient connection has endowed the province with a tapestry of flora and fauna more closely related to Southeast Asia than to the rest of the Philippines, making it a truly unforgettable destination.It’s no wonder Palawan attracted over 1.5 million visitors in 2023. Yet, for those seeking the same breathtaking island scenery away from the crowds, luxury cruising offers a more private and immersive way to experience its natural beauty, far from the usual tourist trails.What sets Palawan apart from neighbouring Southeast Asian cruising destinations is its remoteness. “It gives the opportunity to really be alone in the wild,” explained Did, the luxury concierge agency's CEO, who personally curates the tours for guests. “Here you will spend the full day without seeing one other boat. You feel like you're the one discovering this place, like you're stepping on an island where people have never seen any tourists.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387473/image/large-6e10233cdf969dffa9e12403c790ea14.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387473">Despite Palawan’s breathtaking natural beauty, its yachting infrastructure is still in the early stages of development. Unlike well established cruising destinations, Palawan offers only a limited number of marinas, formal moorings and provisioning points, making logistics a challenge. Therefore, basic supplies including fresh food can sometimes be scarce and more expensive.Aeroplane access is available through the airports of Puerto Princess, Coron and El Nido. While transfers, particularly from the capital city of Puerto Princesa can be time consuming, the rewards are exceptional for those who are willing to venture off the beaten path.<img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/387485/image/large-c4f699a160b374b0dd3a3180ebaf0caf.jpg?X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&amp;X-Amz-Credential=AKIA52TLVJASOPFTPHWY%2F20260316%2Feu-west-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&amp;X-Amz-Date=20260316T100447Z&amp;X-Amz-Expires=900&amp;X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&amp;X-Amz-Signature=09617e5ebf12445fc5601e76f893be3cbb3f325d1d5a569d4be8a3493e2fcbd1" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387485">Regardless of the remote setting and the hassle of airport transfers, guests can enjoy a beautifully appointed yacht, complete with a well-trained Filipino crew known for their warm hospitality. A range of tailored activities makes the experience feel as comfortable and effortless as being at home.“Palawan allows me to have a huge diversity of activities and to see different underwater or overwater day tours,” added Didier, noting that the region gives his agency the flexibility to design itineraries where no two days are the same, entirely shaped around the preferences of each guest.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387464/image/large-7481ebbae6a12bec332ce6d07cf05dc4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387464">Although the region is off the beaten track for many yachts, there are familiar faces among the fleet here, such as the aptly named 42.5-metre futuristic trimaran <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2714" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adastra42.5m (139'5&quot;)McConaghy Boats2012">Adastra</a>. Named after the Latin phrase meaning “to the stars,” the yacht was built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/276" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="McConaghy Boats (Company)">McConaghy Boats</a> at their Zhuhai facility in China and is one of the world’s most distinctive multihull vessels, designed by John Shuttleworth of Shuttleworth Design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387465/image/large-cb5432a220de9d928bb663974b9411f3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387465">A familiar sight among the islands of the Philippines, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2714" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adastra42.5m (139'5&quot;)McConaghy Boats2012">Adastra</a> has been cruising the region for a number of years, as has the elegant 45.5-metre tri-deck yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/86" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Princess Iolanthe45.5m (149'3&quot;)Mondomarine SpA2006">Princess Iolanthe</a>, built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/72" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mondomarine SpA (Company)">Mondo Marine</a>. She boasts abundant inviting spaces perfect for family and friends to gather, including expansive outdoor decks and a Jacuzzi.While Palawan boasts countless breathtaking destinations, this six-day cruise focuses on a curated route from Busuanga southward to El Nido. The journey begins with a welcome stop at Apo Reef, technically outside Palawan’s boundaries, but a natural waypoint for vessels en route to the islands.&nbsp;As the largest contiguous coral reef system in the Philippines and second only to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, Apo Reef teems with marine life, hosting over 500 species of fish and 400 species of coral. Guests can dive alongside sharks and turtles or snorkel through its vibrant shallow coral gardens.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387471/image/large-f8b6f3cda268fe0f56957911b4486931.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387471">The journey continues to West Busuanga, where a storied past and untouched seascapes meet. Beneath the glassy surface of Lusong Coral Garden lies one of the twelve sunken World War II ships, some of the most accessible wreck dives in the world. Once a vessel of the Imperial Japanese Navy, now it serves as coral-draped monuments explored by divers of all levels. But not all beauty lies in depth. On the northern fringes of Caluit and Dimipac Islands, dugongs drift lazily through the seagrass shallows. To swim beside these elusive “sea cows” is an almost sacred initiation into Palawan’s beauty.A detour to Malajon Island, more widely known as Black Island, offers a striking change of scenery. Named for its dramatic black and grey limestone cliffs that rise sharply from the sea, the island is part of the ancestral domain of the Tagbanwa Tribe, one of Palawan’s indigenous groups. In this mystical corner, a massive cave that hides a crystal-clear natural pool, supplied by a gentle waterfall can be explored. As the day fades on Debotunay Island, there is a chance to gather barefoot by the bonfire, with the sea whispering back the memories of the day in every wave.The third day begins with a ten-minute hike from a nearby lagoon to the famed Kayangan Lake on Coron Island. Fed by saltwater and nestled among towering limestone cliffs, it is one of the “big three” natural wonders of the area, along with the Twin Lagoons and Barracuda Lake. The cerulean waters invite a refreshing swim.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387474/image/large-5e6b61c40fef5283459fd32604723bd1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387474">Just to the south lies the iconic Twin Lagoons, a site often bustling with tourists. Cruises are coordinated &nbsp;during the midday lull, when most groups retreat for lunch offer a quiet window where the crew lowers kayaks into the water, allowing guests to glide through the twin bodies of water separated by a narrow limestone wall.The first day concludes at Barracuda Lake, locally known as Luluyuan. Named after skeletal remains found in its depths, the lake’s real marvel lies beneath the surface. A rare thermocline, where layers of fresh and salt water meet, causes an unusual rise in temperature as divers descend. Whether you're a novice snorkeller or a seasoned diver, drifting past jagged limestone formations in this underworld feels like crossing into another dimension.&nbsp;Quieter shores are dedicated to day three. The cruise heads to a relaxed island-hopping adventure in Culion, far from the busier, commercial beaches. The morning begins at Malcapuya Island, where guests can enjoy an early swim and soak up the sun beneath swaying palms, on a long, powdery stretch of white sand.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387476/image/large-95e1095caa99491740c09d4484446c05.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387476">Then, the voyage moves forward to Ditaytayan Sandbar, a shape-shifting natural wonder that transforms with the tide. At low tide, the sand unfurls even farther into the sea, creating a walking path across the shallows. For those seeking a more secluded escape, the final destination is the untouched island of Calumbagan. Though the waters en route may be slightly rougher, the reward is a pristine, crowd-free paradise.On day five, the focus shifts to pure exclusivity, as the voyage enters some of the private islands of Linapacan, accessible only through <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8718" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="LXV (Company)">LXV’s</a> tours. Stops include the pristine shores of Dimanglet and Lacalaca Islands, along with a visit to a protected turtle sanctuary on Ariara Island. With a bit of luck, guests might witness baby turtles hatching and making their first journey into the sea. After a day of exploration and wonder, the group gathers for a supper inspired by local flavors, with freshly caught seafood as the evening’s highlight.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387475/image/large-edc1f3ad8bbb67bf9ca959f358ef9090.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387475">Though the cruises are unmistakably luxurious, Didier insists on staying grounded in the local culture. “I’m still selling the tradition, the people. I want to take guests to the fishermen – I want them to see the fishermen, to watch them negotiate,” he said. The crew already knows to veer off course at the wave of a fisherman’s hand, an invitation to come closer and see what’s been pulled from the sea that morning.In some instances, the tour includes a visit to a nearby fishing village of Calibang Island, where guests can catch a glimpse of everyday life and even visit the local school to interact with the children. They may find themselves in the midst of an unscripted, authentic moment: ten dogs rushing to the shore, a fishing family waving them in with warm curiosity, fresh catch in hand. Guests often buy fish directly from the family, and as Didier described, “They want this simple [experience], they’ll buy the barracuda and ten minutes later, it’s on the grill.” Meal is served on board, fresh from the fire, the salt still clinging to the skin of the fish.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387468/image/large-5e9f834100bbcc606efc0f5cdc68b510.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387468">As the journey comes to a close, a final detour leads through the quiet beauty of the Bacuit Archipelago in El Nido. At low tide, Snake Island reveals its signature S-shaped sandbar, which is ideal for a peaceful morning walk that feels like a stroll across the sea. A short hike to the hilltop offers a clear view of the winding shoreline below.On Pinagbuyutan Island, guests can take a break under the coconut trees, relax in a hammock or enjoy the view of the island’s striking towering limestone cliffs. As the day winds down, there's the chance for a refreshing dip in the shallow waters of Hidden Beach, a secluded cove tucked behind towering rock formations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/387477/image/large-d77263d1ce99e2bc73a1a4c454f0b506.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/387477">Surrounded by nature and bathed in the soft light of sunset, it’s a quiet, beautiful way to close a journey through some of the region’s most remarkable places.In Palawan, the reward lies not only in the scenery, but in the stillness between destinations and the warmth of each encounter. These islands offer a rare kind of luxury, not only measured by extravagance, but by a sense of wonder and the feeling of being both completely removed and deeply connected. Long after the last island fades from view, that fleeting feeling remains.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386528/image/large-ac18974277bb47126ecdd41da712a4c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386528">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2026Following two successful editions in Hong Kong, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/325" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit - 2026 - 3rd Edition">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a> will move to Japan in 2026. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit-2026-3rd-edition" target="_blank">event</a> will take place on Thursday 7 and Friday 8 May in Kobe, hosted at Hotel La Suite Kobe Oceans Garden.As Japan continues to open its market to international superyacht traffic and expand its marina and service infrastructure, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit-2026-3rd-edition" target="_blank">summit</a> will examine how the country is positioning itself within the wider Asia-Pacific yachting landscape, alongside broader regulatory, operational and investment trends across the region.The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit-2026-3rd-edition" target="_blank">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a> brings together owners, operators and industry stakeholders to explore how emerging and established markets can work together to support sustainable, year-round superyacht activity across Asia-Pacific.Early Bird tickets are available <a href="https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit-2026-tickets-1979724982716?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank">here</a>.

Asia's untapped paradise: Cruising in Palawan Philippines

Andrea Pefianco sat down with Didier Novo of LXV Philippines to explore the potential of superyachting in the Philippines.

Asia's untapped paradise: Cruising in Palawan, Philippines

As the superyacht sector grows more complex,&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a>’s new CEO Peter Naeyé tells Francesca Webster why adaptability, rather than scale alone, will define the future of large sailing yacht building.Peter Naeyé has stepped into the role of CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> (including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7286" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Huisfit (Company)">Huisfit</a> Amsterdam and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/458" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rondal B.V. (Company)">Rondal</a>) at a moment when the superyacht sector is facing unprecedented complexity, from accelerating technological demands, shifting owner expectations and economic challenges. In this interview, he speaks candidly about how one of the world’s longest-running shipyards is structured today, how it assesses risk and competition and why adaptability, rather than scale alone, will define success in the next chapter of large sailing and unique motor yacht building.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388096/image/large-d9873f544abc89b600a10909bce57ed0.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388096"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a>&nbsp;is one of the longest-running shipyards anywhere. What lessons from the past do you want to carry forward? The superyacht sector blends history, adventure, innovation and technology, but it also forces a step change every few years. The challenge is keeping pace with those leaps. Over 140 years the business has transformed many times, yet the focus remains the same: building yachts to the highest quality, safety and ever evolving technology standards.&nbsp;What has become harder is the speed of change. Over the past ten years, costs have risen sharply. Politics, global turmoil and regulation can shift a market from straightforward to complicated very quickly. The only constant is the need to keep adapting. ‘Adapting’ and ‘adopting’ of change is an approach I apply adequately in every aspect – internally and externally.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388100/image/large-cb322e0d3df7cc80564ad37558735aad.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388100">What do you mean by “adopting”? It is recognising change early, bringing it into the business without losing the core and most important, having it embraced by all. That is how the shipyard has evolved for 140 years, from working boats to race boats to superyachts.&nbsp;Sometimes that means taking on projects outside expectations. When <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7555" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Phi58.5m (191'11&quot;)Royal Huisman2021">Phi</a> launched, many saw it as a natural fit for a sailing shipyard. Earlier in the process, others questioned whether it made strategic sense. We took the view that we could add value where design and engineering demanded a particular approach. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388104/image/large-dc80bc9113a18fd3d01c6cf9e7dd7fe8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388104">The sportfisher <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10627" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Special One52.0m (170'7&quot;)Royal Huisman2024">Special One</a> was similar. Managing weight, centre of gravity, hull optimisation and complex systems in tight spaces is second nature for sailing yachts, so the fundamentals align very well.&nbsp;This does not mean we are repositioning as a motor yacht builder. There is no target split between sail and power. We respond to specific projects where our technical approach and passion for quality makes sense.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388105/image/large-411f7f5f29f159ec57015e9d770e0787.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388105">When it comes to following the market, how do you balance reacting to change with being proactive? The main trend is not just size but complexity. The curve is steep and if you avoid it, you quickly fall behind. This is how the company remains relevant and successful in a sector that is becoming ever more demanding. Today, a project must incorporate technology, safety, serviceability, long-term maintenance, and resale considerations right from the start.&nbsp;Compared with ten years ago, the difference is significant. Every discipline during construction has to raise its standards. Where the shipyard cannot credibly push further alone, partnerships become essential. The aim is to learn, develop capability and decide whether that knowledge stays external or becomes internal over time. Also, we prioritise care and attention throughout both the development and operational life of each superyacht. We remain connected with our clients, ensuring ongoing support, refit services and a lasting relationship that extends well beyond the initial handover. We are proactively investing in supporting large yachts, our own fleet as well as “orphan yachts” (those without backup from an existing shipyard), where our sailing expertise truly makes a difference.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388099/image/large-1cb5a48aa2d6580118eec51c3ccf744d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388099">When a client or designer brings an idea, how do you assess whether it is too far from a complexity standpoint? We break the concept into blocks. In areas where experience is deep, such as aluminium structures and sailing systems, the pathway is clear. The risk tends to sit in the space available for all systems, it’s redundancy and accessibility often in the engine room or in interior for technical integrations.&nbsp;The priority is to provide owners the ultimate experience and thus avoid disappointment, prioritise safety and maintainability doesn’t become an afterthought. That means setting expectations early and backing them with due diligence. We work open-book with the owner’s team, sharing findings and risks. Increasingly, that front-end work becomes a project in its own right.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/334437/image/large-553449c0279b46f38ee18c63e6eef9af.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/334437">You’re currently building some very large 80m-plus yachts, with the goal of 3-4 year builds, how are you managing this timeline? Full custom is expected at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a>, but complexity has effectively doubled over the last decade. At the same time, owners want shorter delivery horizons. The answer is to be selective about where customisation truly matters and where proven solutions save time without compromising the yacht or the owner’s vision.&nbsp;Some projects cannot be compressed. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12001" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman 85m Sloop84.9m (278'7&quot;)Royal Huisman2026">Project 410</a>, our current 85m sloop, is an example where ambition and technical demands dictate the schedule. Others benefit from starting from a defined architectural foundation. That thinking sits behind our 81 metre Trident “ready to build” series, which offers proven engineering and layout principles while leaving room for individualisation.&nbsp;The three-masted configuration also serves practical goals. It can be easier to manage, safer and more straightforward to maintain. It is also driven by operational realities such as Panamax height for transiting the Panama Canal, which increasingly features in global cruising itineraries.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388098/image/large-c7a3ef28e54ccf1b8a2a419de253af8f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388098">When it comes to the market, do you expect more motor yacht owners to move into sailing? Yes, and it is already happening. Many motor yacht owners have reached a point where they want a different kind of experience. The appeal is movement and independence, not just lifestyle at anchor. Cruising under sail to places like Patagonia and remote coastlines offers a sense of exploration that is harder to replicate with a conventional motor platform.&nbsp;Sailing will not match motor yachts for volume, so sailing yachts tend to grow to meet expectations. At seventy-five metres and above, the engineering and control challenges become more complex, but the direction of travel is clear.Material choice also shapes what is possible. We believe aluminium remains the best balance for very large sailing yachts in terms of strength, weight, safety and performance. Steel tends to push projects towards shipbuilding logic. Composite has structural limits and becomes increasingly difficult beyond a certain length.&nbsp;We intend to maintain the core market in the forty-five to sixty-five-metre range while reserving capacity for seventy-five metres-plus. For aluminium sailing yachts, the upper boundary is around 100 metres. Beyond that, you have to consider steel, which inevitably compromises the performance, enjoyment and authentic sailing experience that aluminium provides.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388102/image/large-8fc568ecd5a914c256afaabddad56626.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388102">What do you think about new players entering sailing, such as Sanlorenzo acquiring Nautor Swan and building forty-metre-plus in Italy? More competition is healthy. Years ago there were many large sailing yacht builders, but most disappeared because they could not keep up with technology, risk and downturns. Today there are only a handful at the top end.&nbsp;That scarcity affects perception. With motor yachts, repeat production builds confidence. With sailing yachts, owners can still feel they are taking a bigger leap, with more questions around handling, safety, classification and crew interaction.&nbsp;Strong brands at smaller and mid-size levels help develop owners and crew, and they help normalise sailing as a pathway. Consolidation and investment from groups such as Sanlorenzo and Ferretti can strengthen the segment.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388095/image/large-cdd019333a65db3f05539544f72ceef0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388095">Is there an ideal size or type of yacht&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a>&nbsp;wants to build? We work with a build-slot strategy. The “ideal” yacht is the one that fits the next available capacity in terms of space, team and timing, and aligns with the shipyard’s technical approach.So you are not stopping the smaller end to focus only on big yachts? No. The thirty to fifty-metre segment is critical for the superyacht sector. It is often where future larger clients begin their -journey and it also protects the business against swings in the top end of the market. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388094/image/large-245f390227fcff7195ecb690ec5383bb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388094">How do you decide where to focus investment and attention between new build and refit? The business of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a>’s newbuilds, the refits at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7286" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Huisfit (Company)">Huisfit</a> Amsterdam and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/458" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rondal B.V. (Company)">Rondal</a> is run through a management team structure. Each business unit has its own managing director and those directors sit within the wider management team. That allows daily decisions to be made close to the work, while keeping a shared view of capacity and priorities.&nbsp;It is a different model from the traditional family-led shipyard, and it has become increasingly necessary as projects and operations grow more complex.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388093/image/large-04bc4fd7fdf50786c9be51d2ea9d040f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388093">The supply chain has been challenging since before Covid. Aluminium is your key material. How do you safeguard clients? Aluminium supply is not the main issue. The vulnerability sits in specialist system components and electronics, particularly chips. On modern yachts, these disruptions are not just possibilities; they are realities that require proactive solutions.&nbsp;To address this, we maintain dedicated oversight teams who constantly monitor the supply chain, anticipate issues early and implement expediting protocols to protect project schedules and quality assurance. We view each challenge as an opportunity to demonstrate our resilience and commitment to our clients’ peace of mind. Our approach is not just about managing risks but about turning uncertainties into advantages for our yachts, their owners and crew.The world is evolving faster than ever, with significant generational shifts and new expectations reshaping our superyacht sector. While this brings change, we see it as an exciting opportunity to innovate and exceed expectations. With 140 years of experience, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/122" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Royal Huisman (Company)">Royal Huisman</a> stands as a beacon of stability, expertise and legacy. Over the years, our team has developed many smart solutions, several of which have become industry trendsetters. We are passionate about maintaining our pioneering approach and navigating the challenging waters ahead; this will undoubtedly benefit our clients.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388103/image/large-8146a8c51d0a513db1a0e5571577f63b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388103">This article was first published in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-56" target="_blank">issue 56</a> of the SuperYacht Times newspaper, available for download <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-56" target="_blank">here</a>.

royal huisman and the future of large sailing yacht building

Royal Huisman and the Future of large Sailing Yacht Building: Peter Naeyé on the complexity, Capacity and competition

Royal Huisman and Peter Naeyé on the future of large sailing yacht building

The 31.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> motor yacht Le Gypsy, now named <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7219" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Piola31.8m (104'4&quot;)Sanlorenzo2018">Piola</a>, has been sold. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="EKKA Yachts (Company)">EKKA Yachts</a> represented the buyer, while Cornelius Kistler of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4901" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="breezeYachting.Swiss (Company)">BreezeYachting</a> represented the seller. Following the sale, the yacht joined the Greece-based charter fleet of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2510" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="EKKA Yachts (Company)">EKKA Yachts</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/373029/image/large-8ba28b1a3c75afe131e600dd3ff46c76.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/373029">Delivered in 2018 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7219" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Piola31.8m (104'4&quot;)Sanlorenzo2018">Piola</a> is an SL102A model featuring exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuccon International Project (Company)">Zuccon International Project</a>, while her naval architecture was crafted by the shipyard. Constructed with a GRP hull and superstructure, she has a beam of 7.06-metres and a draught of 1.92-metres.At an interior volume of 180 GT, accommodation onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7219" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Piola31.8m (104'4&quot;)Sanlorenzo2018">Piola</a> is arranged for up to 11 guests across a five-stateroom configuration. Sleeping quarters are provided for five crew members, including her captain.In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7219" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Piola31.8m (104'4&quot;)Sanlorenzo2018">Piola</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, delivering a cruising speed of 24 knots and a top speed of 28 knots.At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7219" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Piola31.8m (104'4&quot;)Sanlorenzo2018">Piola</a> had a last known asking price of €6,950,000.

32m Sanlorenzo yacht Le Gypsy sold and renamed Piola

The 32m Sanlorenzo motor yacht Le Gypsy, now renamed Piola, has been sold, joining the EKKA Yachts charter fleet.

The 25.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4699" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sofia of Tortola25.5m (83'8&quot;)Benetti SpA2008">Sofia of Tortola</a> has been sold. Zayd Hassoune of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4019" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Althaus Yachts (Company)">Althaus Yachts</a> introduced the buyer, while Eric Trupheme of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a> represented the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/348942/image/large-7285ecbf84673138676f73a307f8bd9c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/348942">Delivered in 2008, the yacht features naval architecture penned in-house by her builder. Meanwhile, her exterior design was created by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/254" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Stefano Righini Design (Company)">Stefano Righini Design</a> and interiors crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuretti Interior Design (Company)">Zuretti Interior Design</a>. At a volume of 103 GT, she can accommodate up to eight guests across four staterooms, as well as three crew members.Moving outside, guests can enjoy the expansive outdoor dining table on the main aft deck. Meanwhile, a lounging and alfresco area are present on the sundeck.&nbsp;Propulsion-wise, the yacht is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines, giving her a cruising speed of 11 knots and a top speed of 13 knots.&nbsp;At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4699" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sofia of Tortola25.5m (83'8&quot;)Benetti SpA2008">Sofia of Tortola</a> had a last known asking price of €2,000,000.Photo courtesy of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a>.

26m Benetti motor yacht Sofia of Tortola sold

The 25.5-metre Benetti motor yacht Sofia of Tortola has been sold.

26m Benetti yacht Sofia of Tortola sold

The sixth 26.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti</a> Infynito 90 motor yacht has entered the market with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7274" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Divo Yacht (Company)">Divo Yacht</a>. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14381" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="INFYNITO 90/0626.52m (87'0&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2025">Infynito 90 yacht for sale</a> focuses on spacious interiors and a seamless connection between her living spaces and the surrounding sea. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389220/image/large-4cbf541dce2d93d4b436989a590c4856.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389220">Delivered by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/361" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Yachts (Company)">Ferretti</a> in 2025, the yacht features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Filippo Salvetti (Company)">Filippo Salvetti</a>, interior design penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5853" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ideaeITALIA (Company)">ideaeITALIA</a>. Her naval architecture was crafted in-house. Constructed with a GRP hull and superstructure, she has a beam of 7.33-metres. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391172/image/large-8fe6d7e52f9e7257428c097cad5b5dfa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391172">In terms of outdoor living, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/directories/yachts/for-sale/of-type=motor" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">motor yacht for sale</a> benefits from generous deck spaces, designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Her aft decks and terraces create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, while her spacious flybridge and signature forward lounge encourage guests to soak in the sun while enjoying uninterrupted sea views.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389221/image/large-d0b39702742f71282506a761c5a3dbc5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389221">Inside, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14381" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="INFYNITO 90/0626.52m (87'0&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2025">Infynito 90</a> presents a contemporary interior defined by warm woods, soft greys and taupe tones, resulting in a calm atmosphere onboard. Expansive windows flood her main saloon with natural light, adding depth to her open-plan arrangement and reinforcing connection to the sea. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391174/image/large-1f7c3a6574849d766562e3540123ccab.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391174">At an interior volume of 163 GT, accommodation onboard is arranged for up to eight guests across four staterooms, including a full-beam master suite, a VIP stateroom and two guest staterooms. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391171/image/large-7695e11107d2adb3a57396dfdd25349a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391171">In terms of performance, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14381" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="INFYNITO 90/0626.52m (87'0&quot;)Ferretti Yachts2025">Infynito 90</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines, propelling her to a top speed of 22 knots and a cruising speed of 17 knots. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391181/image/large-cbd98c1c861cc767724111598ad930cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391181">

Sixth 27m Ferretti Infynito 90 yacht enters the market

The sixth 27m Ferretti Infynito 90 yacht Adernalina has entered the market with Divo Yacht.

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Steeler Yachts (Company)">Steeler Yachts</a> has announced the sale of the third 26-metre Ocean Explorer 85 yacht, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/17025" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Steeler Yacht Project 51126.0m (85'4&quot;)Steeler Yachts2027">Project 511</a>. She is the sixth yacht sold within the line, with the second, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/65423" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="26m Steeler Ocean Explorer 85 yacht Moss on sea trials (2026-02-19 13:45:00 +0100)">Moss, having commenced sea trials this February</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/296259/image/large-ba5dae892420a69b6d95d88f97c47914.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/296259">According to the shipyard, the sale was celebrated last Friday at its facility in Meppel, attended by the owner and the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Steeler Yachts (Company)">Steeler</a> team. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/17025" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Steeler Yacht Project 51126.0m (85'4&quot;)Steeler Yachts2027">Project 511</a> features a steel, round-bilged hull with an aluminium superstructure. Inside, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6691" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kitty van der Kamp Design (Company)">Kitty van der Kemp</a> will oversee the fully customised interior design, tailored to the owner’s brief.Four well-appointed staterooms are located below deck, including a crew cabin for two and a utility room. The main deck is arranged around a flexible wheelhouse, a feature that can be enclosed or opened to the saloon via high/low partitions. This is complemented by a spacious galley and lounge area.The yacht’s flybridge offers a full wet bar, a dedicated sports area, and a forward-facing lounge. A key feature of this project is the electrically operated high/low flybridge windows, allowing the space to be opened or enclosed at the touch of a button.In terms of propulsion, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Steeler Yachts (Company)">Steeler</a> yacht is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines, delivering a cruising speed of eight knots and a range of over 4,000 nautical miles.

Third 26m Steeler Ocean Explorer 85 yacht sold

Steeler Yachts has announced the sale of the third 26-metre Ocean Explorer 85 yacht, Project 511.

The 44.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/496" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sensation Yachts (Company)">Sensation Yachts</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1111" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mari-Cha III44.7m (146'8&quot;)Sensation Yachts1997">Mari-Cha III</a> is on the market, with Henry Craven-Smith of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391186/image/large-b0138b1a855058c81cb1b90f332000a0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391186">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/directories/yachts/for-sale" target="_blank">yacht for sale</a> was delivered from New Zealand in 1997 and features naval architecture and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/53" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Briand Yacht Design (Company)">Philippe Briand</a>. Inside, her elegant interiors were drawn from the boards of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/31" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="John Munford Design (Company)">John Munford</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391193/image/large-e1e7386bdbf6df313a44a11cee78df98.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391193">Built with a carbon composite sandwich hull, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yachts/mari-cha-iii/for-sale" target="_blank">yacht Mari-Cha III for sale</a> offers lightweight performance without compromising stability, making her ideal for competitive sailing. She accommodates up to eight guests across four well-appointed staterooms within a 166 GT interior volume. Her layout comprises a full-beam owner’s suite with an ensuite bathroom, alongside three additional guest suites.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391189/image/large-6cd1f1bed2ea1cc06f27ac47c526305a.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391189"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391196/image/large-7d85e510bb573423a99c4732413deec7.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391196">Moving outside, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/directories/yachts/for-sale/of-type=sailing" target="_blank">sailing yacht for sale</a> offers dedicated areas for relaxation, sunbathing, and alfresco dining. Her saloon and dining areas are located below deck. The space combines a functional layout with premium finishes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391184/image/large-75fa7aa6768e0498bb2bb944488fadfb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391184">In terms of propulsion system, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/directories/yachts/for-sale/built-by=sensation" target="_blank">Sensation yacht for sale</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, giving her a cruising speed of 10 knots and a top speed of 14.8 knots.

Sensation yacht Mari Cha III for sale

The 44.7-metre Sensation Yachts sailing yacht Mari-Cha III is on the market.



45m Sensation sailing yacht Mari-Cha III for sale

The 24.99-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Norma Jean24.99m (81'12&quot;)Sunseeker2008">Norma Jean</a> has been sold. Martin Herbert-Burns of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8442" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="365 Yachts (Company)">365 Yachts</a> introduced the buyer and Michael Selter of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> represented the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/262300/image/large-0bbe5e517300912612fc368937940622.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/262300">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> Predator 82 yacht was delivered in 2008 and features naval architecture penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/353" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Don Shead Yacht Design (Company)">Don Shead Yacht Design</a>. Meanwhile, her British builder took charge of the interior and exterior design.Satin-black millwork, paired with crisp white headliners, defines her contemporary interiors. Additionally, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Norma Jean24.99m (81'12&quot;)Sunseeker2008">Norma Jean</a> can accommodate up to eight guests across four well-appointed staterooms, with an internal volume just shy of 80GT.In terms of propulsion system, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10422" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Norma Jean24.99m (81'12&quot;)Sunseeker2008">Norma Jean</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, giving her a cruising speed of 35 knots and a top speed of 44 knots.Photo courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>.

 Sunseeker yacht Norma Jean sold

The 24.99-metre Sunseeker motor yacht Norma Jean has been sold.


25m Sunseeker motor yacht Norma Jean sold

The 25.75-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/123" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lowland Yachts B.V. (Company)">Lowland Yachts</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Braveheart 2 25.75m (84'6&quot;)Lowland Yachts B.V.1987">Braveheart 2</a> has been sold. Martin Holmes of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop & Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a> represented the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391198/image/large-cf4d94a6abba04584c284dfb70ca112f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391198">Delivered in 1987, the yacht features naval architecture penned in-house by her builder. Meanwhile her interior and exterior design was both crafted 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>.At a volume of 120 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Braveheart 2 25.75m (84'6&quot;)Lowland Yachts B.V.1987">Braveheart 2</a> can accommodate up to 10 guests across four well-appointed staterooms. Her layout comprises a full-beam master suite with his-and-hers ensuite bathrooms, a VIP suite and two twin suites.In terms of propulsion system, she is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1441" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MAN (Company)">MAN</a> engines, giving her a cruising speed of 10 knots and a top speed of 16 knots.At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Braveheart 2 25.75m (84'6&quot;)Lowland Yachts B.V.1987">Braveheart 2</a> had a last known asking price of $599,000.Photo courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/526" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Northrop & Johnson (Company)">Northrop &amp; Johnson</a>.

Lowland yacht Braveheart 2 sold

The 25.75-metre Lowland Yachts motor yacht Braveheart 2 has been sold.

26m Lowland Yachts motor yacht Braveheart 2 sold

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390955/image/large-9d0efd87af721fc806ade7e1e99fe9ef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390955">Fresh from a refit in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 La Ciotat (Company)">La Ciotat</a>, the 87.78-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/104" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Musashi87.78m (287'12&quot;)Feadship2011">Musashi</a> was spotted in Málaga last Sunday.She was delivered in 2011 to an experienced yachtsman, who had previously owned <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rising Sun138.6m (454'9&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2004">Rising Sun</a>, and was launched in the same year as her sistership <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1502" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fountainhead87.78m (287'12&quot;)Feadship2011">Fountainhead</a>, with which she shares identical lines.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/104" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Musashi87.78m (287'12&quot;)Feadship2011">Musashi</a> features naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/30" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Voogt Naval Architects (Company)">De Voogt Naval Architects</a>, with a sleek exterior profile by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/926" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design (Company)">Sinot Yacht Architecture &amp; Design</a>. Inside, her interiors, also by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/926" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design (Company)">Sinot</a>, combine comfort with optimal user-friendliness, blending refined Japanese design influences with elements of Art Deco.In terms of propulsion, the yacht is powered by quadruple&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines and carries an onboard fuel capacity of 250,000 litres.If you would like to see your photo featured each day, then send your submissions to <a href="mailto:news@superyachttimes.com" target="_blank">news@superyachttimes.com</a>.

Feadship yacht Musashi in Malaga

The 87.78-metre Feadship superyacht Musashi was spotted in Málaga last Sunday.

88m Feadship superyacht Musashi in Málaga

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a> has announced the launch of four made-to-measure yachts at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> Superyacht Yard in Ancona, Italy, between January and March.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391068/image/large-86f49e3d7bc79e1456eacd16806b8a4b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391068">The launches include one yacht from the yard’s planing Saetta line and three from its displacement Navetta series, all delivered for owners based across Europe and the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region.Exterior styling across the range is developed by the brand’s Strategic Product Committee, while interiors are overseen by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> Engineering Department, supported by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a> Atelier team.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391037/image/large-1f8d1566d654f955f74404ccc25936db.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391037">Custom Line 106/28The first launch of the year, the 28th hull in the Custom Line 106 series, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/15960" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Era II32.82m (107'8&quot;)Custom Line2026">Era II</a>, entered the water on 13 January. Measuring 32.82-metres, with a beam of 7.4-metres, the yacht is characterised by clean lines and a minimalist design approach.&nbsp;Her interiors adopt a light and refined aesthetic, defined by neutral tones, mirrored surfaces and chrome detailing, alongside materials such as Taj Mahal and Mystery White marble. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/15960" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Era II32.82m (107'8&quot;)Custom Line2026">Era II</a>'s flybridge has been configured as a social hub, complete with flexible seating arrangements, a gym area and an extendable dining table for up to 12 guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391055/image/large-6cc19728c0e153e014dc01469c8155cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391055">Custom Line Navetta 30/27On 10 February, the yard launched the 27th <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/15706" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line Navetta 30/2728.43m (93'3&quot;)Custom Line2026">Custom Line Navetta 30</a>, a 28.43-metre model with a beam of 7.3 metres. Designed externally by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Filippo Salvetti (Company)">Filippo Salvetti</a>, she features interiors by ACPV ARCHITECTS <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5082" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel (Company)">Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel</a>.&nbsp;The yacht prioritises social spaces, with a palette of light, neutral tones, complemented by leather accents and textured fabrics. Taj Mahal marble and bespoke furnishings have been selected by the owner and contribute to a cohesive and contemporary onboard environment.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391071/image/large-89445cf8267fd02db6ff6a081a4db715.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391071">Custom Line Navetta 33/37The third launch followed on 5 March with the 37th <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/15380" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line Navetta 33/3733.0m (108'3&quot;)Custom Line2026">Custom Line Navetta 33</a>. Measuring 33-metres, with a beam of 7.52 metres, the yacht has been conceived as a ‘home on the water’, with an emphasis on comfort and extended liveability.&nbsp;Developed in collaboration with an Italian dealer within the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> network, who commissioned the yacht for personal use, the project showcases a warm material palette including American walnut flooring, marble finishes and nubuck leather detailing. Outdoor areas, particularly the upper deck with its lounge, bar and Jacuzzi, reinforce the yacht’s focus on social living.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391036/image/large-5c127e0aaa654ffece3ec3d5172626cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391036">Custom Line Navetta 42/16Measuring 41.8 metres and with an 8.1-metre beam, the 16th Custom Line Navetta 42, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14155" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Off Hire41.8m (137'2&quot;)Custom Line2026">Off Hire</a> was launched on 19 March. The yacht has been designed with family life and entertainment in mind. Her layout includes expansive interior and exterior living spaces, with multiple lounges and dining areas across the main, upper and sun decks.&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14155" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Off Hire41.8m (137'2&quot;)Custom Line2026">Off Hire</a>'s master suite features a spacious ensuite bathroom finished in Bianco Gioia marble, while guest accommodation on the lower deck comprises a series of double staterooms. A combination of light wood surfaces, dark walnut flooring and refined detailing defines the interior style, resulting in a contemporary and balanced aesthetic.

Custom Line launches four yachts in first quarter of 2026

Custom Line has launched four made-to-measure yachts between January and March 2026, including models from the Saetta and Navetta lines.

Newspaper

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