Being the mayor of the “Yachting Capital of the World” is no small task, but for Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jim Naugle it’s just another day. Fort Lauderdale boats 165 miles of lush, tropical navigable waterways, an amazing 3,000 hours of annual sunshine and seven miles of pristine beaches, making it a natural haven for yachtsman the world over. Add in the fact that the Intracoastal Waterway is lined with marinas, waterfront restaurants and nightspots, and the fact that the city is home to the world’s largest boat show, and there’s no reason to dock anywhere else. However, there’s a lot of work behind the scenes to maintain Fort Lauderdale’s title as the boater’s oasis that it is while growing the city further.

“We have established ourselves as a place in the world where you can buy a boat, get it worked on and get it crewed,” says Naugle proudly. “For example, the annual Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, an eye-popping assembly of yachts and super-yachts, has become the largest event in Florida in terms of the direct business it generates. It’s bigger than the Super Bowl for us, pumps several billion into the economy, and draws prospective buyers from all over the world, giving the city a caliber of global exposure it couldn’t get any other way.”

Mayor Naugle’s lifelong love affair with Fort Lauderdale’s waterways began during his childhood. He grew up a block away from Fort Lauderdale’s historic New River — the scene of many marine and other waterfront businesses today, which he has dubbed “Florida’s Most Beautiful Mile.” During his formative years, his family’s business was one block from the New River as well. “Capitalizing on this central feature, the foundation of our city since the 1700s when the first European settlers embarked on the New River, is important,” says Naugle when talking about his efforts for a downtown renaissance anchored by the waterway. “The whole city grew up on the river — the history is just so rich. It should be a 24/7 destination, and during my years of service, the area has seen the addition of significant residential housing.”
Both the local and international boating community have a true friend in the mayor. Naugle himself is an avid yachtsman and likes nothing more than to start up the 36-foot Hatteras sportfisher docked behind his house and go out cruising with his wife Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips, and their daughter, Rachel. The time on the water helps him gain first-hand knowledge of the recreational mariner as well as the marine industry in South Florida. “If we get people out on the waterways when they visit our city, we have a customer for life because it’s just so awesome out there,” says Naugle. “When I have friends from out of town I take them on the Water Bus because it’s a great way to show them the city.”
“Marina services are essential to our quality of life — as these facilities vanish, so too do jobs,” continues Naugle, who works tirelessly to see that waterfront access is properly maintained for marine needs. “Marine businesses create and maintain nice, labor-intensive jobs and stimulate our local economy. These services can’t easily relocate since they’re dependent on direct access to the water, Marinas and boatyards need to be here on the water but condos don’t have to be built on the water; they can be built on land.”
One notable plan that combines the best of all worlds is the new $500 million Bahia Mar Beach Resort &Yachting Center that has been submitted to the City of Fort Lauderdale by LXR Luxury Resorts & Hotels proposing a mixed-use facility that’s anchored by a new Waldorf-Astoria hotel. In addition to the expected shops and residential units, the development would feature a 4-acre waterfront park and a layout that would create a permanent home for the annual Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, thereby securing its essential presence for decades to come. The project takes into account the city’s “efforts to spruce up and market Fort Lauderdale beach” as an upscale destination, which includes the St. Regis, Hilton, Starwood, W and Trump hotels currently open or under construction.
“The Bahia Mar property has a fascinating history,” notes Naugle, mentioning it was a Coast Guard base. When it was closed, the city purchased the property. Construction of the marina really changed Fort Lauderdale. It established the city as a marine center; it’s responsible for the boat show today; and the marine industry being number one in the city. This will be the first major reconstruction. Assurance on the boat show has great value to the city.”
On the cruise ship front, Fort Lauderdale will host five of the cruise industry’s eight newest cruise ships for Winter 2008-09 to make it the world’s third-busiest cruise port. It is expected to serve 3.14 million cruise passengers this coming year, according to the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. Some vacationers extend their schedule to encompass Fort Lauderdale’s plethora of available watersports, including sailing, swimming, kiteboarding, windsurfing, waterskiing, boating, deep-sea fishing, parasailing and scuba diving.
In addition, Naugle has worked closely with the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) to promote the ongoing maintenance of the waterways and the fragile marine ecosystem. One result is the annual Waterway Cleanup that brings in tons of trash each year. “MIASF has done a spectacular job with the annual waterway cleanup,” says Naugle. “It shows that no one cares about our waterways more than recreational boaters, who often get a bad rap that is undeserved.”
Also on the clean front, the City of Fort Lauderdale is proud to have all three of their marinas — Las Olas, Cooley’s Landing and New River — designated as Clean Marinas,” he adds. “We are thrilled because the designation indicates that as the ‘Yachting Capital of the World’ we are maintaining high standards of environmental responsibility,” he says. And that’s just part of the high standards he plans to keep up and enhance as Fort Lauderdale moves into its bright-horizoned future.

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Once again, from Feb. 12-16, 2009, the Indian Creek Waterway at Collins Avenue/A1A in Miami Beach will play host to the glamorous, totally in-water 21st Annual Yacht and Brokerage show as the stars of the yachting world cruise into town to display their interior design artistry and impressive naval architecture. This year’s show will cover over 1.2 million square feet with over 550 new and pre-owned vessels with a grand total over one billion dollars. Prices range from around $100,000 to eight figure masterpieces at this extraordinary show site, making this a truly “something for everyone” event, which encompasses the world’s best in superyachts, sportfishermen, family cruisers, express cruisers, and ocean-going trawlers. The attendees’ list includes a who’s who of the international superyacht world as well as U.S. boat manufacturers such as Sea Ray and Marquis Yachts.
“We have the equipment to build large-scale marinas virtually overnight,” says Skip Zimbalist, CEO of Active Interest Media who owns Yachting Promotions, Inc., who produces the show. “With electrical, telephone service, Internet and all kinds of things.” His company provides berths for over 500 new and pre-owned tour de forces of naval architecture and luxurious interior design.

International food, live entertainment and just across the street some revamped Art Deco beauties including the Fontainbleau and Eden Roc, make this a not to be missed event. Also not to be missed is the floating accessories pavilion. “This specially designed area allows more and new high-profile exhibitors to take part in the show,” says Andrew Doole, Chief Operating Officer. “The area allows for electronic manufacturers, yacht builders, designers, shipyards, tower makers, financial institutions and a host of other products and services from companies from around the world to display their wares. Perhaps most importantly, all accessories and services will be located in one beautiful ‘weather- proof’ area which will make it extremely easy for visitors navigating the show.”
Simultaneously, just across the pond, is the world famous Miami International Boat Show. Now in its 68th impressive year, the Miami International Boat Show and Strictly Sail Miami 2009 will host over 2,200 exhibitors bringing thousands of the latest and greatest powerboats, sailboats, engines, electronics, clothing, accessories and more to the three packed locations: the Miami Beach Convention Center, Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center and Miamarina at Bayside.
The Convention Center is home to over one million square feet of gleaming fiberglass in the form of cruisers, runabouts, sport boats, fishing boats, personal watercrafts, inflatables and more, ranging from 15 to 85-feet. It is also a must see for those looking to check out the latest engines, electronics and more marine accessories, clothing, and art than one can imagine.

Sea Isle Marina provides one of the two in-water locations with over 300 cruisers, go-fasts, sportfishermen, and yachts to check out. This is the place for test rides. And here’s an insider tip — admission to this location is FREE. Miamarina at Bayside, the other in-water locale, offers access to the all the shops, restaurants, cafes of this popular complex. This is also the site of the sailing portion of the show. Think cruisers, daysailers and multihulls as well as yet more accessories and gear.
The multi-media Miami International Boat Show also features interactive seminars and educational demonstrations that will be of interest to both seasoned boaters and those considering joining the sport. Notable highlights include the Big Game Room Sport Fishing Expo, Discover Boating, a Boating Photo Contest, Sunset Celebrations and an Elite Fleet Club, where members can take a break from the hectic show at the Miami Botanical Garden site adjacent to the Convention Center where there is a relaxing lounge as well as available drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Also at the Botanical Gardens is the handy Kids Play Area for the little ones.
“Visitors from around the globe flock to Miami to see the latest and greatest the boating industry has to offer — if you’re a boater, or thinking about becoming one, this is a can’t miss event,” says Cathy Rick-Joule, show manager. “Boating is big business in Miami but we’ll be taking it to a whole new level this year with exhibitors offering incredible deals and our three locations bringing access to the world’s best boats and boating gear. Many exhibitors use the Miami show to introduce new products for the upcoming season, while consumers find a one-stop source for all of their boating needs as well as a venue for getting the best deals on every product imaginable. The Miami show is truly the world’s greatest because it offers something for everyone.”
“Miami is a very special show, beyond its local impact,” adds Kevin Murphy of Sail America. “The show sets the barometer for anticipated new boat sales in the U.S. for the rest of the year. Moreover, it marks the busiest weekend in South Florida.”
The action doesn’t just happen at the various show locations. Private boating-related parties are hosted at the famous clubs, pools, and hotels of South Beach, not to mention aboard the yachts of the concurrent Yacht & Brokerage Show. The Wednesday before the show is traditionally filled with overlapping invitation-only parties of yacht builders announcing their latest launches amongst gilded guests and flowing champagne. Celebrity attendees are no surprise. In past years, Shaquille O’Neal was spotted a head-and-shoulders above the crowd checking out some of the megayachts at the Yacht and Brokerage Show. While Madonna was reportedly attended semi-regularly until her marriage to her now-ex-husband director Guy Ritchie lured her to spend more time in Europe.
So what does this influx of maritime enthusiasm mean to Miami Beach? “The Miami International Boat show is always huge, so we’re expecting a lot of people and a lot of business. At last year’s show there was $817.8 million in sales,” concurs Nannette Rodriguez of the City of Miami Beach. “It’s the biggest boat show in the country. We’re working with the organizers to set up effective traffic mitigation. There will also be several park and ride programs in place, and we’re encouraging that anyone coming out to the show park in a lot and take a shuttle over to the Convention Center.” The Yacht & Brokerage Show is free to the public. There is also a free shuttle service between the two shows.

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It’s no surprise that with the racing pedigrees of McLaren and Mercedes-Benz that their newest collaboration, the street legal Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S, runs wide open—from the high-powered engine to the wide-open top. Delivering 650hp, acceleration from 0 to 60 in 3.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 208 mph, this two-seater cabriolet surpasses the existing benchmark among open-top super sports cars.
While enjoying exceptional performance, the new roadster’s occupants in no way lose out in terms of comfort or the vehicle’s suitability for everyday use. With its sporty, premium-quality interior appointments and distinctive motorsport pedigree, the new SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S is limited to 150 vehicles and will inspire even the most discerning automotive enthusiasts.

By naming this new model variant the SLR Roadster 722 S, Mercedes-Benz is recalling the historic victory won at the classic Mille Miglia long-distance race in 1955 by British motor-racing legend Stirling Moss and his co-driver Dennis Jenkinson, in a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR with the starting number 722. The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S continues the legend of the successful 1950s SLR racing sports cars, with innovative technology adopted from the world of motorsports.
The powerful heart of the SLR Roadster 722 S is a supercharged 5.5-liter V8 engine, which is hand-built in the Mercedes-AMG engine shop in Affalterbach. The special strengths of this high-performance engine include extraordinary responsiveness to movements of the accelerator, a high torque and an unmistakable V8 sound. Moreover, with an output of 650 hp and 627 lb/ft of torque, power is on tap almost to excess.
The five-speed automatic transmission developed by Mercedes-Benz is designed for high performance. It is specially configured for a very high torque, and allows the driver to choose between two sets of shift characteristics. As a result the roadster achieves performance figures that are even outstanding for the high-end sports car segment: the SLR Roadster 722 S absolves a sprint from zero to 60 in a breathtaking 3.7 seconds, and 124 mph is reached in 10.6 seconds. The maximum speed is 208 mph, which is unrivalled by any other series-production roadster.
The spring and shock absorber configurations of the suspension are stiffer, and the body has been lowered by 10 millimeters at the front and rear. This ensures the greater handling stability of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S, with a significant improvement in handling dynamics. The lightweight, 19-inch forged aluminum wheels allow a view of the red-painted brake calipers on the highly resistant carbon-fiber/ceramic brake discs, which make for impressive deceleration figures.

The handling and aerodynamics of this high-end roadster were optimized for high speeds in the wind tunnel. The aerodynamic concept follows that of the SLR Coupé, with an airbrake integrated into the boot lid, an enclosed underbody and a diffusor in the rear bumper to ensure the greatest possible downforce on the rear axle. The so-called airsplitter at the front end augments this downforce, while small wheel spoilers reduce turbulence at the rear axle. The result is precise handling and steering at high speeds.
The outstanding qualities of the 722 S are complemented by the fully recessible fabric soft top, which blends harmoniously into the flowing lines of the roadster. The weave structure of this high-tech roof material reflects the carbon-fiber look, guarantees full day-to-day suitability in any weather conditions and allows the vehicle a top speed of 335 km/h – an unusual figure for a roadster. Thanks to the vehicle’s favorable aero-acoustics, conversation during open-air journeys is still possible at well over 200 km/h. The soft top opens and closes semi-automatically in around ten seconds, combining comfort expectations with the purist nature of the roadster. For opening, the roof needs to be unlatched at the windscreen frame and lifted slightly, after which it folds down electrically. The front section of the soft top features an integral aluminum cap, which effectively prevents “ballooning” at high speeds.
In technical terms the 722 S benefits from the long experience of Mercedes-Benz and its Formula-1 partner McLaren. With the exception of two aluminum frames, the body is completely of carbon-fiber materials (CFRP). This makes it highly exceptional among high-performance sports cars. Especially for the roadster, the sophisticated carbon-fiber technology was developed further for the monocoque. The result is low weight, exemplary energy absorption and therefore a high level of occupant safety, plus a torsional rigidity that is unprecedented for an open-top car. It allows outstanding handling characteristics that are otherwise only found in closed super-sports cars.
In addition, a high level of safety is provided by unique carbon-fiber crash structures, steel-reinforced A-pillars and two fixed rollover bars. Other safety features include adaptive airbags, knee and sidebags, belt tensioners and a tire pressure monitoring system.

The roadster has a crystal antimony grey paint finish, which highlights the sculptured look of this high-performance car particularly effectively. The carbon-fiber technology is visually complemented by the black, grid-like air vents on the bonnet and the front and rear light modules with palladium grey surrounds. In the interior, outstanding lateral support is guaranteed by sports bucket seats upholstered in a combination of semi-aniline leather and Alcantara. Frequently used controls such as the shift and parking brake levers are lined in particularly high-grip and moisture-absorbing suede leather. In the interior too, the generous use of carbon fiber underlines the high-performance philosophy.
This limited edition of 150 examples will be predominantly hand-built at McLarens’s Formula 1 workshops in Woking, England, and will be available from January 1, 2009.

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Blind Date, as seen in the 3-D renderings, will have a vintage, Hollywood “glam” interior. The 161’ Trinity yacht will have classic lines and feature a very clean and uncluttered, yet sophisticated interior. Leather floors, open pore wood surfaces and tumbled marble are just a few interior design features the yacht will encompass. The open plan of the main salon and dining salon will feature an aft entry reception, an attractive bar area and loose seating. A floor-to-ceiling wine cellar will serve as a dramatic divider between the dining salon and main foyer entrance. There will also be a grand sundeck, called a “Resort Deck,” dedicated to her owners and their guests on this vessel.
Thanks to the unprecedented use of the most advanced computer modeling and animation, Patrick Knowles Designs was able to “deliver” a completed interior design to the client well ahead of the launch date.

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Where better to look than the boating and luxury home capital of the U.S. for the best waterfront options that accommodate home and yacht? Showcasing sensitivity to the seafaring souls, three South Florida condo developments have designed special marinas, water programming and amenities to cater to the yacht-set.
Morgans Hotel Group, who gave us lobby socializing at the Delano and poolside partying at Skybar now extends the velvet rope to the water. Mondrian South Beach, the company’s first condo-hotel offering, presents a boaters destination with the refurbished Mondrian Marina on Biscayne Bay. One of only four marinas located on Miami Beach, Mondrian Marina offers 22 boat slips that hold up to 80-foot yachts and luxurious onsite service. With a Mondrian Dock Master on hand, Mondrian South Beach invites guests to relax on their boats or explore the lavish grounds comprised of a swimming pool, lush gardens and poolside, foliage-curtain cabanas that provide the perfect atmosphere for dining outdoors. If guests prefer keep the party on their boats, they may order the “Mondrian Picnic Baskets,” featuring food prepared in the world-class restaurant and beverages from the poolside bar. Boaters also have the option to call ahead so they may be greeted by smiling personnel with basket orders in hand.

Located in a prime location overlooking sunset views of the downtown Miami skyline, guests with have convenient access to surrounding waters such as Government Cut, North Miami Beach and the serene natural landscape of Key Biscayne, all while being bare footsteps away from the action of an exclusive South Beach destination. If the boaters stay to watch the sunset, they might also enjoy the benefits of Mondrian South Beach’s new social destination, the Sunset Lounge, conceptualized by nightlife impresario Ben Pundole. The marina will become a boater’s dream and the most exclusive place to relax on the water. Mondrian South Beach opens this December, with remaining hotel residences starting at $500,000. For more information visit MondrianSouthBeach.com.
On the other side of Biscayne Bay, real estate mogul Jorge Perez of The Related Group is unveiling his proclaimed “legacy,” ICON Brickell. Strategically located at the exact meeting point of Downtown Miami and Brickell, ICON Brickell symbolically unites Miami’s two major metropolitan areas while providing stunning views and access to the Miami River and Biscayne Bay.

With signature designs by international design magnate Philippe Starck, perhaps the most remarkable of ICON Brickell’s amenities is the stunning two-acre park terrace and pool deck, situated 140 feet above Biscayne Bay. This sanctuary is a never-ending expanse of monumental design features spanning a freestanding fireplace, mosaic tile carpet and a sophisticated sitting area framed by artistic glass panels, intended to serve as an outdoor “living room.” The area’s center of attention is undoubtedly the 230-foot swimming pool, the longest in Florida, with a thermal hot tub that seats 50 as well as a wading pool where tables and chairs will lightly float on the water’s surface.
ICON Brickell is celebrating its grand opening in December and is already proving to be one of Art Basel’s most highly anticipated events. Prices for residences start at $500,000 and range to $2 million. For more information, visit ICONBrickell.com.

 Completing a boat lover’s dream, ArTech is located along the coveted street known as “Thunder Alley,” the historic hub of the world’s most prominent powerboat manufacturers. For those without a bathing beauty to call their own, Fortune International and Shefaor Development jumped aboard with BRB Yachts for a ferry-tale deal for their million-dollar-plus ArTech buyers, making them the first to offer fractional yacht ownership to their residents. By investing an extra few dollars, residents of ArTech’s exclusive Marina Homes and plush Penthouse Collection can own a piece of the 600 Sport Silver Edition Rodriquez Yacht, retailing for $1.5 million at BRB Yachts in Coral Gables, for 60 days of the year without a single concern for her upkeep. Moored at ArTech’s private marina and distinctively outfitted in metallic silver and gleaming glass, these sultry stunners will prove to be the ultimate condo accessory, with sleek inspired Carlos Ott interiors of the very same caliber found throughout the property. So after your sunset cruise, tie up, step down and chill out. You’re home.

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Text by Stacy Wynn
Photos courtesy of Marquis Yachts

The Marquis 70 Tri-Deck Motor Yacht is the most recent floating masterpiece from the creative joint venture of Marquis Yachts and Nuvolari-Lenard Naval Architects and it takes the brand one giant step forward.
The largest launch to date from this inspired partnership places three lavish decks atop the beamy, wide hull on which one would expect to see only two, without overburdening the yacht nor detracting from its sleek good looks. The design team enclosed the pilothouse to not only increase the air-conditioned square footage aboard, but to significantly expand upon the selection of multi-purpose living spaces and options available.

“The increase in demand for semi-custom yachts led to the launch of the 70 Tri-Deck,” says Dick Nocenti, marketing director for Marquis Yachts. Word on the street is that there is also an 88-footer in the works for a 2010 launch. “Someday it wouldn’t surprise me to be talking to you about a 100-foot Marquis,” he adds. “The market is going that way.”
More than just an enclosed flybridge, the pilothouse deck on the 70 Tri-Deck can function as a second more compact salon with stunning wrap-around views and a wet bar, entertainment area, semi-private relaxing escape, or a games/family room if there are children aboard. The interior design is highlighted by the same handcrafted joinery and custom furniture and fine attention to detail found throughout. The large wrap-around wet bar to starboard anchors the room and houses the flatscreen television and entertainment system. Across is a large settee and inlaid coffee/cocktail table to port. A second smaller, though no less comfortable, twin settee is starboard with plenty of floor space for cocktail parties. A combination of teak planking and plush carpeting keep the space as useable as it is attractive. Just forward, the teak pilothouse boasts state-of-the-art electronics package set in burl wood helm with an ergonomic helm chair that guarantees a comfortable drive even in rough seas.

Further aft, through the wide salon door, is the equally sophisticated aft deck with plenty of room for Queen Mary-style classic deck chairs or any chic décor of the owner’s choosing. The convenient built-in grill allows for casual indoor/outdoor socializing without leaving the pilothouse level. To further the indoor/outdoor relationship, the upper deck salon, while fully enclosed within the superstructure, features fully opening windows, hatches and doors which work along with the electronically controlled heating/air-conditioning system for optimally protected all-weather al fresco living.
Down below, the main salon is a showcase for Nuvolari-Lenard’s Italian roots starting off with Italian Poltrona Frau handcrafted white leather furniture that is at once elegant and approachable in the way only the Italians can manage. The centerpiece is a white leather oversized couch that silently begs guests to have a seat and its matching club chair. Across are two stylish chairs in a contrasting brown. To add to the streamlined, open feel, a clear modernist coffee/cocktail table was chosen over a more traditional nautical teak design. The circular steps leading up to the pilothouse are a combination of carpeted topped teak and crystal-clear steps to turn the staircase into a piece of functional art.
The decision was made to keep the main deck all one level, which adds to the functionality as well as the welcoming, great room ambience. The large, epicurean granite and stainless galley is ready to provide formal dinners or simply serve as a place to make a quick snack. Opposite the galley is the teak and granite sideboard/wet bar with wine cooler and underlit crystal storage. Forward of the galley, a plush circular settee wraps around a custom wood table supported by twin modish high-shine pedestals for formal meals or breakfast watching the panoramic vista of a sunrise over the water.
The owner and guests are accommodated in a three-stateroom, three-head plan, with an optional fourth stateroom. The full-beam master belongs on a larger yacht. The more than 18-foot beam allows it to be turned into a studio apartment aboard with a large king berth, separate sitting area, a walk-in closet and plenty of drawer storage as well as a double-sink bathroom with shower and tub. Three large windows on each side allow in plenty of daylight as well as interesting night views. These same windows add to the rakish characteristics of the glamorous exterior design.

 The queen VIP is sequestered in the bow as one would expect and features a large head with separate shower and plenty of closet space. The third stateroom placed between the master and VIP to port is designed to work equally well for adults or children and features two single berths and an ensuite with separate shower. The optional fourth stateroom, if chosen, is placed to starboard replacing the second large walk-in closet in the master suite and features twin bunk beds. Aft of the engine room is yet another living space. Based upon the owner’s requirements, this area can become either roomy crew quarters with two single berths and an ensuite with separate shower or a single berth “stern guest cabin” with a “cabana” day head, bringing the total cabins aboard to four or five, depending upon whether the three or four guest cabin layout is chosen forward. The stern accommodations are accessed through a private watertight transom door on the swim/sports deck. When used as a “seaside cabana,” it places a handy changing room with shower, head and sink at-hand for bathers, divers and those using water-toys making the swim platform into a true beach deck as found on megayachts.
The new 70 Tri-Deck utilizes the latest in constructioin technology and manufacturing processes to create a yacht that is burly below the waterline as it is beautiful above. Each 70 Tri-Deck is certified to CE “A” Class exacting standards, resulting in a luxury vessel that is ready to set off in the most exotic waters of the world. With the current strength of the Euro versus the U.S. dollar, American builders are more competitive on pricing, making brands such as Marquis more reasonable than ever in the global marketplace. And that’s something we can all be greatful for.

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Text by Yoshi Sanz
Photos courtesy of Marina Pez Vela

Costa Rica is on the verge of luxurious, ocean-bound and environmentally friendly facelift thanks to the arrival of Marina Pez Vela, one of the most anticipated projects to hit the area this century.
According to project founder Harold Lovelady, an avid sportfishing enthusiast who saw a need for a full-service marina in the area, the first phase of construction in Quepos includes 100 slips, accommodating yachts up to 200 feet in length, which are scheduled for completion during the first quarter of 2009. He reports dredging is well underway, state-of-the-art cofferdam breakwater is nearly complete and dock installation by Bellingham Marine began in October.
The marina is being built with an emphasis toward environmental protection, including the use of recycled steel and a state-of-the-art septic treatment system. The entire project will meet or exceed all American and Costa Rican building codes and standards. “Marina Pez Vela has been designed to meet the needs of the international sport fishing and ocean-going yacht community,” says Lovelady, a sportfishing enthusiast and current resident of Quepos whose passion for fishing in the flat tranquil waters of Quepos coupled with a need for a full-service marina in the region ignited the project.
“We will also have the first and only full-service boatyard south of San Diego.”

Located along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Quepos is a tropical oceanside village with open-air cafés, intimate restaurants, boutique shops and a legendary port. Surrounded by tropical rainforests, it is an ideal starting point for activities that range from surfing and sailing to kayaking, scuba diving, white-water rafting, zip lining, canopy tours, nature preserves and hiking and lounging on the beach. It is also recognized as having the finest offshore and inshore fishing in all of Central America. Calm waters and temperate climate provide ideal fishing conditions year-round and boast waters full of Pacific sailfish, marlin, tuna, dorado, roosterfish, grouper, cubera and wahoo. Minutes from Quepos is the world-renowned Manuel Antonio National Park and an upscale resort area with beautiful white-sand beaches, five-star hotels, casinos, shops, restaurants and spectacular views.Marina Pez Vela will provide a safe haven and base of operations for fishing along the Pacific coast of Central America, in effect opening thousands of miles of ocean that was nearly impossible to fish previously as well as offering world-class facilities that include more than 300 concrete floating slips accommodating boats from 35 to 200 feet; a full-maintenance and repair boat yard with 75 ton and 200 ton travel-lifts; a dry storage facility for boat storage up to 35 feet; high-speed fueling operations; 24-hour security; clean electrical power; ample freshwater; high-speed Internet access and satellite TV: concierge services and numerous recreational facilities; and direct and frequent commercial air access from San Jose.

Phase II, which includes the remaining 208 wet slips, dry storage and boatyard, is scheduled for completion during the third quarter of 2009. Future plans for Marina Pez Vela call for one-, two- and three-bedroom residences; a boutique hotel with spa, restaurants and shopping; and up to 150,000 square feet of retail space including marine-related services such as bait-and-tackle, deli and marine parts and supplies.
Pricing for wet slips begins at $175,000 and dry slips begin at $125,000. For more information, visit MarinaPezVela.com or call 1.866.PEZ.VELA.

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Text by Sully Villez

Photos courtesy of Nikki Beach

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Whatever nickname you prefer to give him, one thing is certain: Florida’s governor is at the forefront of saving our waters, the planet and everything that resides in it.

Text by Maria Arroyave
Opening photo by Angel Navarro | The Picture Place
Other shots courtesy of Governor Crist
He goes by many names: Eco-Governor, Green Governor, Governor Crist. “I just like being called Charlie,” says Florida’s 44th governor. Crist has held his office for a little over a year and has been making headlines all the while for his environmental initiatives to preserve the natural resources that make Florida the state he calls home.
In the first-ever Serve to Preserve Florida Summit on Global Climate Change in 2007, Crist signed executive orders geared specifically toward protecting Florida’s environment. The orders focused on reducing greenhouse gases, increasing energy efficiency and encouraging investment in new technology like wind energy and solar development. The orders were met with mixed reactions.
Requesting $200 million from legislators for green technologies research in Feb. 2008, which is double what the state spent just one year ago, was like waving a red flag in the faces of skeptics who chalk global warming up to political myth and a liberal media scare. “I certainly respect their right to dissent but my point would be that whether others believe or don’t believe in it, the steps that we need to take to begin cleaning up estuaries, streams, handling sewage that is properly treated and reducing carbon emissions can only help Florida in the long run, so there’s no reason to object,” says Crist. “You can help us protect our beautiful state.”
For Crist, the recent “Go-Green” phenomenon is more than just a trend, it’s a necessity. “With 1,350 miles of coastline, [Floridians] are most vulnerable to the effects of global warming and rising sea levels would have a devastating impact.”
And Crist understands that Florida is a state dependent on its waters. The Port of Miami is hailed as the “Cruise Capital of the World,” and approximately two-thirds of cruise passengers leave from Florida’s ports. The research and initiatives that Crist is proposing would be the same for land and sea. “I think what we need to do [for cruise ships] is the same as what we are advocating for the vehicles on the roads,” he says. “Pursuing ethanol as a foreign oil alternative will help ween us off our addiction to foreign oil and coal. Advocating this energy source will help boats, cruise ships and freighters. It’s not only a good environmental issue, it’s a safety issue as well.”
Aside from the cruise industry, Florida depends on its waters for sport and commercial fishing. Sadly, fishery stocks are down, with scientists fingering a poor water management system as a partial culprit. Passed by Congress in 1948, the C&SF Project, or the Central and Southern Florida Project for Flood Control, allowed South Floridians to keep their feet dry year-round, but significantly altered the natural freshwater flow into Biscayne Bay and the Florida Everglades.
With the canal system in place, vital estuarine water bodies that were once sanctuaries for a variety of marine life became threatened. In anticipation of hurricane season, the canals are unlocked each year and Biscayne Bay and surrounding waters are flushed with an unnatural flow of fresh water containing nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorous generated from groundwater runoff. “Nutrients” is a deceptive word in this case since they come from fertilizers, pesticides and other pollutants that are harmful to the water’s natural balance.
In 2007, a large algal bloom was noted in Eastern Florida Bay and Southern Biscayne Bay. The bloom, which threatens fisheries in these water bodies, has yet to dissipate. That same year, the work of the Florida delegation and the helping hand of Crist allowed for the passing of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), geared toward the conservation and development of water-related resources like the Florida Everglades and the canal system that affects it. “This will accelerate our protective efforts as it relates to our waters and will only help those who inhabit those waters,” says Crist. “The fisheries are something we need to protect.”
Crist, who grew up fishing in Tampa Bay, was a sponsor of the net ban that was adopted in a constitutional amendment that was passed by voters in Florida. “To preserve beaches and make sure our fishery stock is maintained is a duty that we all share and something that we should do as good stewards of the land and water,” he says.
WRDA, which authorizes several projects under the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Project (CERP), has been vital in restoring the freshwater flow that nature intended, and will hopefully restore the fish populations as well. While some feel that the efforts are too little, too late, Crist remains optimistic. “I think that you can take that kind of view, but I don’t think that’s terribly productive,” he says. “We have to be positive. I grew up in the Tampa Bay area and legislation there 15 years ago to clean up sewage treatment has made a dramatic difference in that estuary alone,” he says. “We are also seeing that the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee Rivers have gotten much cleaner as a result.”
As an avid boater and fisherman himself, Crist tries to get out at least once a month on his 26-foot Trophy Open Fisherman. The boat, aptly named Freedom, reflects Crist’s views on what the Florida waters have to offer — something worth preserving. “Florida has been a tremendous partner, if not a senior partner, in terms of meeting our obligations to sustain water flow and protect this international treasure,” he says. “This is sort of a continual concern, and we have to be vigilant. That’s why we’re fighting so hard to do what’s right.”
As Crist continues to fight for his state, he is also rumored to be on the short-list of candidates for the vice presidency. Will the White House soon be going green? These are rumors that Crist does little to confirm or deny. “It’s very flattering that it’s even mentioned,” he says, “but my focus is on Florida. I feel blessed to be the 44th governor of the Sunshine State, working toward increasing teacher salaries, protecting our environment, making sure children are safe…that’s what I’m focused on, and I’m grateful to the people of Florida for giving me a shot.”

Welcome to Jon’s world
Rebuilding his house is probably not so daunting compared to creating his own, unique world. Personally procuring build orders from millionaires was a seemingly impossible task in a locale where megayachts were unknown: Ocean Springs, Mississippi.
“I always wanted to be in yachting, even though it wasn’t indigenous to this area,” he says. “When I told my friends what I wanted to quit my job at Cemco designing government vessels and start my own business designing yachts, everyone thought I was crazy. There was nothing around here like that and I knew that the business would have to come from abroad. I knew if I didn’t do it then, I would probably never do it.”
Overing, whose family hails from New Orleans, has built and refit 10 yachts from his Ocean Springs headquarters since 1989. As a child prodigy sketching hulls freehand since he was 10, the southpaw cannot remember a time when he didn’t know how to draw. The lines to sketch a sailboat or powerboat just came naturally to him as a child. Sailing to Horn Island on the Mississippi Sound, the family pastime, nurtured his innate ability. He remembers the first time he saw his Dad’s Alden ketch, Sunshine, when he was six or seven.
“Dad said, ‘This is our new boat,’ and I was thinking how beautiful this boat was and didn’t know it was for us,” he says. “I was overwhelmed and walked down below to hug the main. That sailboat made me who I am today. I understood the framing of the boat, how it went together. It was all just automatic from the get-go.”
As an understudy at the age of 14 to Frank van Bentem — the Dutch naval architect who pioneered the use of computer parts to cut ships — Overing designed Ingalls’ last nuclear submarines and DD993 class destroyers a few years later. He’s one of the few naval architects in the world who works on a handshake without a written contract, something he has done since designing and overseeing the 174-foot Noble House, the largest megayacht ever built in New Zealand. “Your word is your bond,” his calm voice says with conviction. “If something happens, you don’t want to be suing a yacht owner, you just make it right.”
His latest creation is a new support yacht, the 300-foot Chaperone series. Feadship is eyeing it, which is remarkable in that they have never had an American design a series for them. “Chaperone is my whole background rolled into one design, with an evolved, European hull form,” he says. The expedition support-style yacht has a certain military flavor to it resembling the DD963 class destroyers Overing designed in his previous life, carefully blended with commercial-vessel and yacht-design characteristics.

Building tough yachts
Overing designs yachts like they are small ships, not big boats. That mindset is a plus as today’s yachts grow increasingly bigger.
After years of designing commercial, U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard vessels to take the pounding and punishment of the Gulf of Mexico, Overing’s portfolio emerged into megayachts that reflect more commercial-grade systems. Overing built the first megayacht in the state of Mississippi, Bon Bon and its 100-foot tri-deck aluminum encore, Carib Queen. “The structural integrity of our vessels is well beyond what you’d find on an average yacht,” he says. “Even our semi displacement hulls have a reputation for going out when others have to stay in port.” Bon Bon and Carib Queen, both hard chine semi displacement hulls, are a departure from his copywrited Overing Fast Full Displacement Hull Design. It’s a highly-evolved and efficient hull with a bulbous bow and a round bilge that is a deeper draft with a European style, a credit to his Dutch training.

Stickin’ to his guns
“Jon and I contemplated for years moving to another part of the country for business,” says Geoff van Aller, senior designer at Trinity Yachts. The two have collaborated on many vessels. “I give him credit for staying in Mississippi and sticking with it instead of moving to open a yacht design office.”
While he spends significant time in Fort Lauderdale, everything in Overing’s life has always revolved around boats and Ocean Springs, where he caught snakes in the bayou as a mischievous teenager. No doubt, he was just a few precarious steps away from that alligator. “I’m a son of a son of a son of a sailor, and I’m paying it forward with my son, Jon, raising him as my father raised me and his father raised him,” he says. “My most sincere hope is that Jon follows in my footsteps.”

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Photos courtesy of Burger Boat Company

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