Luxury Catamaran

AUGUSTUS - GUNBOAT NEWS

2013-07-28T16:40:00.001+02:00

PHAEDO'S 427 MILE DAY....
For years we have extolled the daily range of a GUNBOAT. As early as 2002, TRIBE was averaging 270 miles per day offshore, with many days in the 330-385 mile range. We noted that 400 mile days are possible. During the TRANSPAC Race last week, PHAEDO recorded a 427 mile day, and was tracking towards an even bigger day, when....

GRAVITY STORM
Our hearts go out to the well-prepared and always professional PHAEDO team. According to PHAEDO owner Lloyd Thornburg, who was on the helm at the time, the top of the rig broke off while under a full main and A4 code sail. So ended PHAEDO'S remarkable run at the TRANSPAC Race. PHAEDO was well ahead of the entire TP52 and West Coast sled fleet at the time. The only boats on the course showing better pace were a 100' super-maxi, a turbo-charged Volvo 70, and a lengthened ORMA 60' tri. We may never know the exact reason why PHAEDO's rig succumbed. The crew wisely cut it away to preserve PHAEDO's hulls. She is the only GUNBOAT that chose to utilize PBO rigging. While it can reduce windage and save weight, it's track record for reliability would not be regarded as the best today. The manner of the rig's loss, in our opinion, is consistent with the failure of a windward diamond shroud. All GUNBOAT's today are specified with aramid shrouds and carbon diamond stays, which reflect industry best practices at this time. We salute Lloyd and his PHAEDO team for pushing so hard in so many epic races. PHAEDO is our cover girl, and has helped reset expectations of what an all-carbon world cruising GUNBOAT can achieve. We know PHAEDO's awesome team will rise again, and will be even more impressive when she returns!

MED DEGREES

We are getting great reports from ZENYATTA, TIGER LILY, LAGUZ, and PANTHERA as they explore the Mediterranean Sea this season. These stories make our hearts sing as we watch these beautiful GUNBOATs deliver on their promise of world cruising in luxury at speed. ZENYATTA plans to enter the ARC Rally from the Canaries to St Lucia. TIGER LILY is thumbing a ride on Dock-Wise to make the fall season in New England. PANTHERA will keep cruising wherever her young family's heart desires. And LAGUZ plans to winter in the Med. Delivering these dreams keeps us fired up every day!

BATTAILE STATIONS

Lauren Battaile has left her career in the wine industry on the West Coast to be stationed at GUNBOAT as the new marketing manager. Lauren studied marketing as an undergrad, and applied those talents to two brands before joining us. A noted foodie and wine expert, she and her family are lifelong sailors from North Carolina. Lauren will be focused on traditional and social media, events, pr, shows and sales support. She will work closely with Meg Minetree, our sales director, and Peter Johnstone. This edition is Lauren's first effort. Welcome aboard!

WEEKNIGHT GUNBOAT CLASS RACING

Tuesday and Thursday night saw the first ever weeknight beer-can racing between GUNBOATs. TRIBE's owner organized the series with the help of Indian Harbor Yacht Club in Greenwich, CT. ELVIS and SLIM joined the host on the water. Winds were light, and racing was tight between the GUNBOATs racing on short courses, and in some cases through other yacht club races. The sight of three large cats towering over all other boats along the Connecticut shoreline led to several spectator boats following the fleet. Dave, the mate on ELVIS, employed his mass aloft on a halyard in a pseudo Spiderman wrecking ball technique to get ELVIS' battens to tack in the lighter winds. A big thank you to TRIBE's owner and Indian Harbor Yacht Club for a very special two nights. Thursday featured a barbecue for the GUNBOAT owners and crew at Indian Harbor's Sunfish bar and patio. These very special evenings show signs of growing. Upwards of seven GUNBOATs may be on the line in Long Island Sound in 2014! www.gunboat.com

FALCOR REFIT: THE SERVICE YARD IS LIVE

The new ramp at GUNBOAT's yard is proving to be a great addition. Owner Travis Rice sailed into town and left his beloved GUNBOAT 48 in our care for his snowboarding season. When he returns, he will find a spruced up eight year old GUNBOAT in new condition and ready for Travis' loop of the Pacific. CREAM is expected later this year, and up to three other GUNBOATs expect to get service at our NC yard in the coming months. More to come.

FLOW'S A GO!

The gorgeous new GUNBOAT 60 is completing sea trials, and will begin her delivery journey to the East Coast USA imminently. The best laid plans are to have her at the US Sailboat Show in Annapolis in October.

GUNBOAT 55-05 EMERGES, 55-06 STARTS & 60-05 INFUSES

The NC team led by Aaron Croswait pulled GUNBOAT 55-05 from the gorgeous female tooling this past week. The outer skins of 55-06 are already in the mold. Paul Hakes reports the successful infusion of GUNBOAT 60-05. GUNBOAT 60-04 had her decks installed. Production is on a roll!

SUNREEF SCORES 3 NEW LUXUCATAMARANS 80 FEET AND ABOVE

2013-07-18T11:21:00.000+02:00

The first contract was the Sunreef 82 Double Deck sold to a Client in the Middle East. It will be the second unit of Sunreef 82 Double Deck after last year’s HOUBARA. In the double deck concept there is one spacious owner cabin in the front and a large, bright salon with an internal helm station enjoying sea views. The impressive 64 m2 cockpit holds a large dining table for up to 8 guests, sunbathing mats, wicker armchairs and storage for diving equipment. This will be the first yacht in the world with a folding mast shortening it 10 m, so that it can easily go under the bridge leading to the Owner’s property. This yacht is due to be launched in December 2013. Thanks to their spaciousness and comfort, Double Deck catamarans are a perfect alternative for a traditional mega yacht with its greener character offered by cruising on sails.

Second in order is the 90 Sunreef Power, a true milestone in luxury catamaran design. The main idea behind the concept is to stress the superb space offered by catamarans thanks to their large beam, and to arrange this space in a similar way to motor yachts. On a 90 feet yacht no less than 522 sqm will be available for the owner’s enchantment, this is something that one could never have on a regular motor yacht. This means a single large main deck spanning the entire beam, housing dining and lounging areas in both the exterior aft deck and inside the saloon to create a seamless, open space. The generously-sized master cabin is located in the front on the same level with its study area, walk-in wardrobe, private ensuite bathroom, etc. The flybridge will include the helm station and two lounge areas (inside and outside), while the intimate terrace at the front of the main deck will comprise a jet ski with its crane and sun pads. An interesting feature is a beach club on the aft, created thanks to a special platform which gives access to all numerous water toys in the aft garage. Finished in cozy, warm interior design featuring only natural materials, this power mega yacht will operate in Thailand and will be delivered in the beginning of 2015.

The third sale is the second unit of the Sunreef 80 Carbon Line, a superb sailing catamaran with the concept based on light displacement of 45 tones, performance and speed. It will made of an advanced composite sandwich combining vinylester, PVC foam and carbon/glass fiber, with a carbon mast and boom. First unit of this model was just launched at the shipyard and already gained a lot of attention from the clients. The second unit is expected to launch in May 2014. Purchased by an American client, looking for his perfect carbon-made, performance yacht for the last two years all around the world before placing the order at Sunreef. The new Sunreef 80 will feature a beautiful master cabin on the main deck and a sophisticated navcom system.

Sunreef Yachts with its in-house design team will be present during the upcoming prestigious Monaco Yacht Show held between 25 - 28th of September 2013. You are welcome to visit our stand located in DARSE NORD, booth QD27. Besides these three new superyachts underway, the company will promote its new projects with mega trimaran 210 and a new 165 ft super sailing catamaran

GUNBOAT ENDLESS SUMMER NEWS

2013-07-15T19:09:00.000+02:00

GUNBOAT G4

GUNBOAT expects to announce the new 40' GUNBOAT G4 imminently. Aimed at coastal cruising, weekends, daysailing and racing, the GUNBOAT G4 breaks new ground and redefines what sailing can be. Included will be everything you need, and set aside, will be everything you don't need. Innovations abound. We are thrilled to be nearing announcement with all details soon! Please contact Meg Minetree if you would like to be included in future notifications on this series: meg@gunboat.com.

GUNBOAT WEATHER SEMINAR

This past weekend, GUNBOAT hosted a Weather Seminar for GUNBOAT 55 Owners and families at the College of the Ablemare in Manteo, NC. Bill Biewenga, a four time Whitbread/Volvo Race veteran (and winner) led the two-day session. Bill is one of the foremost weather gurus in the offshore world with his own book, DVD, and North U courses. With 400,000 miles offshore, Bill has seen just about everything. Eighteen attendees were immersed in advanced offshore weather teaching. GUNBOAT held a Friday evening welcome dinner at La Dolce Vita, and the gang gathered at Peter Johnstone's home for a Wanchese tuna cookout on Saturday. "Keeping our owners safe, and giving them confidence is critical. We will be offering these advanced weather seminars every 6-8 months. Every owner will receive advanced boat handling training as we have always done during sea trials," stated Meg Minetree, Director of Sales. www.gunboat.com

FLOW TESTING

William Jelbert, the GUNBOAT 60 project manager, announced the 'soft launch' of FLOW into the test pool at the yard. "We like to test all systems while afloat in the yard's pool before launching. Results look excellent and we expect to launch FLOW this coming week." Once again, the GUNBOAT Team at Hudson Yachts has delivered a gorgeous result. We look forward to reporting on sea trials in the coming weeks. www.gunboat.com

HAIL TO THE CHIEF

Bruce Hopkins joins GUNBOAT as Chief Financial Officer. "It was time to bring in someone of Bruce's caliber," remarked founder Peter Johnstone. For the past 15 years, Bruce has been an industry leading CFO at two renown Maine boat builders, Lyman Morse and Hodgkin Yachts. After 30 years in Maine, Bruce and his wife Kate have made the move to North Carolina. "We're excited to be here. GUNBOAT is thriving, and we're looking forward to being able to sail in warm weather for six months out of the year, rather than six weeks!" www.gunboat.com

GUNBOAT MARINA AND SERVICE YARD

GUNBOAT expects to close a deal to purchase the marina and yard a few hundred yards South of the GUNBOAT facility in Wanchese, NC. Included in the purchase are two piers and development rights to a third pier. When completed, the GUNBOAT marina will have dockage for up to 14 Gunboats. The gravel yard enables up to six hauled GUNBOATs, and features the brand new 40' wide ramp for launching and hauling via hydraulic trailer. The GUNBOAT Marina will be the base for all service activities, commissioning and sea trials. www.gunboat.com

ART GUNBOAT

Meredith and Nils Erickson's painting of the GUNBOAT 62 ZENYATTA on the Horta harbor wall deserves special mention. Many GUNBOATS have celebrated their successful Trans-Atlantic passages with a stopover at Horta in the Azores with a beautiful painting on the wall. The creativity of the ZENYATTA painting stands above all. Few people realize that the GUNBOAT logo is based on an aerial photo of TRIBE's bows. The ZENYATTA painting perfectly captures the spirit of the logo. Well done Meredith and Nils! www.gunboat.com

HIRED GUN!

There must something in the water at GUNBOAT these days, as it continues to attract top industry talent. Frank Edwards joins GUNBOAT as our Production Engineer. Operations Manager Dan Bottjen remarked, "This is a real coup for GUNBOAT. Frank is the best I have seen at production engineering. He comes across from Hattaras Yachts, where he was a key person for 20 years, most recently running their design and engineering teams." Frank will be a key asset in further refining the Gunboat production set-up and organization.

FALCOR: FIRST GUNBOAT CUSTOMER!

RED BULL extreme snowboarder Travis Rice arrives this week on his GUNBOAT 48 FALCOR. Her GUNBOAT service stop will prepare her for an intended circuit of the Pacific in 2014 that will include film work for Travis' next movie production, MIGRATIONS, to follow up on his epic snowboard movie FLIGHT.

GUNBOAT HALL INSPECTION

Henry Maxwell, along with assistance from owners Eric and Ben Hall, gave GUNBOAT the full tour of Hall Spars at their flagship Bristol, RI facility last week. With the first two GUNBOAT 55 spar packages nearly complete, the tour, of course, featured GUNBOAT work in every area. We are really happy to welcome Hall to our team, and to have such a world-class vendor so close to our NC production facility!

ADASTRA WINS 3 SHOWBOATS DESIGN 2013 AWARDS

2013-06-28T11:03:00.001+02:00

Shuttleworth Design is delighted to announce that Superyacht Adastra, the 42.5m power trimaran received awards in three categories at the 2013 ShowBoats Design Awards.

Exterior Design and Styling - Judges' Commendation
Naval Architecture - Winner
Newcomer of the Year - Winner

John and Orion proudly accepted the awards at the prize giving ceremony, held at the Monaco Opera House on June 21, 2013.

The judges gave the nod to Adastra for her "clean sheet of paper approach" to problem-solving, and noted that her tank tests, as well as the physical evidence provided by designs of similar theory indicate "this yacht will have the best performance in the most sea states of all those presented".

Sunreef Yachts Announces Spectacular Presence at the Cannes International Boat Show 2013

2013-06-28T10:48:00.000+02:00

Established in 2002 by Francis Lapp, Sunreef Yachts has consequently grown to its current, strong position of the leading designer and builder of luxury sailing and power catamarans and catamaran-superyachts from 60 to 200 feet in the world.

In 2013 Sunreef Yachts will have no less than 6 yachts, the first ever such important Sunreef yachts gathering, on display with 2 world premieres: the superyacht Sunreef 80 Sailing LEVANTE and a new concept of a sailing catamaran, Sunreef 60 LOFT.

The new Sunreef 80 Sailing is a concept based on light displacement, performance and speed. Commissioned by a European owner, the Sunreef 80 is made of an advanced composite sandwich combining vinylester, PVC foam and carbon/glass fibre, with a carbon mast and boom, standing rigging with Kevlar and total sail area of 340 m², weighing just 45T lightship and 60T fully loaded. The sleek and sporty exterior line was designed carefully to reduce windage and water resistance.

The 2nd world premiere is the new concept of 60 footer, the Sunreef 60 LOFT, a ready- to- sail, luxury yacht with comfortable accommodation for 6 guests. Fully equipped open galley with both Siemens and Gorenje appliances is located in the portside hull, directly connected with the saloon. The cockpit and the saloon are both located on the same level and connected with a large sliding door which enhances the impression of one, seamless space. Actually two units of this new concept have already been sold, only two months after its presentation in spring this year.

In addition, the shipyard will exhibit its first poweryacht, the 60 Sunreef Power LILU YACHT equipped with the innovative IPS system allowing this imposing yacht easy maneuvering in tide marinas and side docking. Moreover, the system helps to be even more efficient on the fuel consumption side and increases maximum speed adding 2 knots.

Fourth yacht on display was launched in April 2013. The Sunreef 70 MAVERICK is the 12th unit of an extremely popular Sunreef 70 Sailing. Distinctively different, this superb modern catamaran features an ultra-sleek profile, flawless interior design, exceptional amenities, and the latest in entertainment technology.

Another big presence will be ensured by the superyacht HOUBARA. The Sunreef 82 Double Deck will be again the biggest unit on Sunreef Yachts display this year. Presented last year in Cannes, HOUBARA accommodates up to 7 guests in one beam-wide owner suite, one VIP queen cabin and one guest twin cabin convertible to a double cabin with an additional Pullman bed, attended by two crew.

On the power side, besides the 60 Sunreef Power, Sunreef will showcase again its extremely popular 70 Sunreef introduced in 2008. This yacht model attracts many motoryacht enthusiasts thanks to its stability and subsequently the comfort in cruising, an extended living and storage space thanks to its large beam, superb exterior space, and oceanic range combined with very low fuel consumption and all that in keeping with Sunreef’s customized design.

Both of them MAVERICK and LEVANTE are available for charters with Sunreef Yachts Charter.
The shipyard will also introduce more its new projects underway, the 90 Sunreef Power, the Trimaran 210 and the new sailing superyacht of 165ft.

LONG ISLAND 85 TIME LAPSE

2013-06-20T09:53:00.002+02:00

Here is a time lapse made by JFA of the building of their 85 foot aluminium luxury catamaran. Enjoy.

SUNREEF INTRODUCES THE INNOVATIVE IPS SYSTEM

2013-06-04T10:09:00.002+02:00

In 2013 Sunreef Yachts has done something rather extraordinary from an engineering Stand point.

Together with VOLVO engineers, the company's in-house engineering department has developed an innovative IPS system installed on the new 60 Sunreef Power LILU-YACHT . IPS systems make maneuvering of the boat much easier with the possibility of side cruising and easy turning just with one joystick. Despite being widely used on regular motoryachts, they are very uncommon on catamarans, especially large-sized yachts in which the shipyard specializes in.

The shipyard decided not to build a completely new hull, dedicated for IPS propulsion, but to modify the existing hull of the 60 Sunreef Power model. There were several challenges associated with arranging placement for IPS units in the engine rooms and with the correct positioning of IPS units in relation to water level and hull position. This task is rather simple for wide monohulls but requires much more planning on catamaran narrower aft sections. The research resulted in success and the positive results have even surpassed the owner and Sunreef/Volvo engineers’ expectations.

The shipyard is already considering some further improvements on the hull shape that could allow for closer turns hence giving better maneuverability in very small spaces, like crowded marinas. The IPS system will be therefore offered on all power catamarans available at Sunreef Yachts.

The engineering department is already working on the new motoryacht model, the 90 Sunreef Power and doing a lot of hull optimization calculations to enhance the performance, motion at sea and savings on fuel. The hull had originally been forcast with a standard shaft line. The company is now working on the IPS version of this boat so that 2 propulsion systems can be available on the same hull shape, according to the demand. Sunreef Yachts keeps working closely with Volvo to foresee the further development on their IPS range for that size of Superyacht catamarans. With this system on our super catamarans, Sunreef Yachts has opened a new chapter in nautical engineering.

SUNREEF 80 ALMOST READY FOR THE BIG LAUNCH !

2013-06-04T10:03:00.002+02:00

From the beginning of 2013, Sunreef Yachts has already completed 4 new custom-made catamaran-yachts, both sail and power.

The next big launch in the pipeline is the new sailing superyacht model, Sunreef 80 from the Single Deck line with full carbon structure. Calculations made by the FEM (Finite Element Model) helped reducing the sound and vibrations to the minimum with a very sophisticated system. Its lightweight structure and sleek and sporty line will guarantee high performance under sails in keeping with the fully customized design and layout.

The wet deck is now being painted. The teak flooring has been installed on the flybridge as well as in the cockpit. Most of the rigging has also been fixed while interior finish in modern style is now being mounted within the superstructure and the hulls. The launch in scheduled for the beginning of July 2013 and the yacht will be exhibited as a premiere at the Cannes International Boat Show this year.

GUNBOAT - JUNE BUGGING

2013-06-04T09:58:00.000+02:00

A THAI LADY

GUNBOAT CEO Peter Johnstone just returned from a two week GUNBOAT 60 Series trip. He concluded, "We had great project meetings with three of the GUNBOAT 60 owners. FLOW and FAULT TOLERANT are coming together beautifully for their owners. Thai based 60-04 is not yet named but is progressing nicely with all structures assembled. The Gunboat 60 Series' finish exceeds expectations and raises the bar further for GUNBOAT. Our world-class build team in Xiamen, led by Paul Hakes and William Jelbert, continues to set best practices in every area." Learn more about the GUNBOAT 60 Series here: www.gunboat.com

A HIGH FIVE ENDING. - NOT THE HANGOVER PART III
Mid-May, the GUNBOAT Sales Team, led by Meg Minetree, announced the signing of GUNBOAT 60-05. The GUNBOAT 60 has come together very well and the interest in this series is gaining speed. High-fives all around between the GUNBOAT and HUDSON YACHT Teams. Everyone is excited to see the 60 take root after more than two years of hard work. Learn more about the the GUNBOAT 60 Series here: www.gunboat.com

IF THE WORLD IS HIS OYSTER... HE KNOWS WHERE TO FIND HIS PEARL
Oyster Yachts founder Richard Matthews of the UK chose to build XXX, his new all carbon Judel Vrolik designed Hudson-Hakes 42 race boat, at the GUNBAOT 60 facility in Xiamen. The 5-axis machined tooling and immaculate construction has resulted in an example of precision yacht building that can only be described as exquisite. We are proud to refer to XXX as the kid sister to the GUNBOAT 60 Series and wish Mr. Matthews success with his UK and Caribbean racing plans.

CRUISING MOVES, 15,000 NM. ONE MONTH.

Making tracks on a fast, level, luxury yacht is fun. May racked up some serious miles on various GUNBOATs. GUNBOAT 66s LAGUZ, TIGER LILY, and COCO DE MER departed the Caribbean for their Trans-Atlantic passages to the Med and UK this month. LAGUZ is already celebrating in Horta after a storm-tossed crossing. GUNBOAT 66 SLIM and GUNBOAT 62s TRIBE and ELVIS have departed the Caribbean for the East Coast USA summer. TRIBE was spotted steaming up the East River past Manhattan. GUNBOAT 66 PHAEDO reports a successful transit of the Panama Canal and is enjoying her trip up to LA for the start of the Transpac Race in July. GUNBOAT 48 FALCOR is making her way through the Virgins, Turks & Caicos, and the Bahamas en route to the GUNBOAT yard in NC for some love. May was a 15,000+ mile month for GUNBOATs on the move! www.gunboat.com

GRAND PRIX RACING-CRUISING SAILS!

Doyle Sails founder Robbie Doyle and Doyle Sails' GUNBOAT Project Manager, Olympian Mark Mendelblatt, spent a day at GUNBOAT in Wanchese, North Carolina with one of their likely GUNBOAT customers. The Doyle Team made an impressive presentation showing their latest work with Stratis Membrane technology and various sail design innovations developed on the very successful SHOCKWAVE mini-maxi.

Soon after, Ken Read, the President of North Sails Worldwide, spent a day at GUNBOAT to research all of our latest developments. Ken has announced that North Sails Design Services, led by JB Braun, will be applying all of North Sails' technical resources towards their GUNBOAT sail program. "For the first time in history, the fastest sails in the world are also the most durable. Our 3di sails on PUMA could have done a 2nd lap of the world," Ken enthused. He continued, "GUNBOAT is perfect for our North customers. After touring the factory, it is clear to me that GUNBOAT is leading in boat building technology as we lead in sail making technology. Sure seems like a natural fit to me."

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BEER CAN RACING -GUNBOAT STYLE!

There was a time not long ago when anyone on the water would stop to stare at a Swan 65 sailing down Long Island Sound. It would have been an enormous yacht to behold. TRIBE's owner has announced that up to four GUNBOAT 62s and 66s may gather for a few Wednesday evening races this summer in the middle of Long Island Sound.

BON VOYAGE PHIL & LAURA

One of GUNBOAT's favorite couples will be on the move at the end of May. Phil and Laura Harvey built the first two GUNBOAT 62s at Harvey Yachts in 2001-2002 and helped Jaz Marine get started on the third. After eight years of cruising, this dynamic duo returned to get the GUNBOAT 60 production started in Xiamen. For the past 16 months Phil and Laura have played key roles in igniting the GUNBOAT 55 production in the USA. Full of energy, experience, and fun, they will always be a part of our GUNBOAT family and legacy. We are all wishing Phil and Laura warm winds at their back as they begin their cruising life again. We thank them for their dedication, hard work, and contributions to GUNBOAT. We will miss you. Y'all come back now!

KATHI'S GOTT IT!

Kathi Gott Beedy has joined GUNBOAT as a 15 year veteran of large yacht project management, administration, and marketing in the Boothbay area of Maine. Versed in large complex projects, she will also handle various aspects of GUNBOAT events and development. Kathi is enjoying her new home in NC and plans to see more of her daughter and grandchildren in nearby New Bern. Welcome aboard Kathi!

BUSTLING WITH TALENT IN NC PROMOTIONS WITHIN - CONGRATS!

Aaron Crosswait has been promoted from Infusion Team Leader to Lead Boat Builder of all composites. Aaron's father Bobby runs the small parts composite team. "Having 2nd and 3rd generation boat building skills is a real benefit of our Wanchese, NC facility," explains Operations Manager Dan Bottjen.

Well regarded TP52 project manager Patrick Edwards now runs the assembly and finish areas. "It is a real pleasure to lead such skilled craftsmen," remarked Edwards. "The 55 series is coming together with precision and excellent attention to detail," he concluded.

Mike Reynolds has moved from stock room boss to become the purchasing manager. Mike brings over 25 years of purchasing experience to GUNBOAT from the heydays of Ablemarle and Buddy Davis Yachts. "We'd deliver a 60' every few weeks at Davis. I expect GUNBOAT to meet that soon. We're ready!" Amen Mike. Let's do this.

DISCOVER THE NEW NEEL 60 A FAST AND SLEEK LUXURY TRIMARAN

2013-05-14T15:55:00.001+02:00

The latest arrival to the NEEL Trimarans family is a statement of intent with its “Sport Chic” navigation style.

The NEEL 60 is a lightweight craft with sleek lines and all the sailing qualities of its smaller brother the NEEL 45 : High Performance, fine helming and good sea keeping.

Full comfort inside and out with different living spaces to enjoy company, a single level layout for the saloon, cockpit and cabins as well as a flybridge for relaxing sailing.
Interior by Franck Darnet Design combines a contemporary feel with sober and refined materials.

The layout it highly functional with generous, conserved living spaces, five double cabins, six bathrooms and an independent crew cabin.
The concept is unique, responding to the requirements of crewed charter usage as well as family cruising, with different versions available.

MC² FROM MCCONAGHY LAUNCHED - SLIDESHOW

2013-05-07T11:08:00.002+02:00

The 60 feet fast luxury catamaran built by Mc Conaghy was launched and the first tests sailing are scheduled for next week. Here are some pictures of this sleek luxury catamaran.Click on MC² or on the picture to access the album.

TAN 66, THE INTERPRETATION OF A DREAM

2013-05-07T10:50:00.001+02:00

The Tan 66, the story of 2 men, 1 passion, 1 dream.

Xavier Bouin, founder of the Tan brand and Marc Van Peteghem from the famous VPLP architectural office, imagined and created a new type of exclusive catamaran, the Tan 66.

The Tan 66 was designed to sail at very high speed with great ease.

The Tan 66 is an innovative catamaran built entirely of carbon fiber for more speed and strength.

Both helm station, the central mast and front sails are there to make the sailing effortless while achieving top speeds.

The Tan 66 is more than highly performing, she is also a benchmark in style and design.

The Tan 66 will be built at Marsaudon Composite in Lorient based in France. The yard is famous for its unique know-how and excellent craftsmanship in carbon composite material.

The Tan 66, dreams become reality.

GUNBOAT EXPANSION TO NORTH CAROLINA - VIDEO

2013-04-16T11:07:00.002+02:00

SUNREEF 60 FT - A NEW CONCEPT OF PRET-A-PORTER LUXURY YACHT

2013-04-16T10:54:00.003+02:00

Sunreef Yachts is delighted to unveil a new concept being a result of the company’s long experience in luxury yacht building – the Sunreef 60 LOFT . The shipyard, always reactive on the Clients feedback, has decided to meet their requirements and create a luxury ‘pret-a-porter’ yacht based on the 10 years’ experience, extensive knowledge and understanding of the owners’ needs and containing all the essential options and equipment for comfortable sailing and living on board. Therefore, Clients are now fully served and receive a “ready- to- go”, fully equipped vessel. The model has all the features of the Sunreef catamarans - impeccable quality of the construction, customized luxury finish and high seaworthiness –converted into a compact and light vessel.

The Sunreef 60 LOFT will be a ready- to- sail, luxury, performance-oriented yacht with comfortable accommodation for 6 guests in 3 spacious cabins and 2 crew in the port aft cabin, accessible through the galley located within this hull for easy crew circulation.

The interior space arrangement is both elegant and functional. Fully equipped open galley with both Siemens and Gorenje appliances is located in the portside hull, directly connected with the saloon. The cockpit and the saloon are both located on the same level and connected with a large sliding door which enhances the impression of one, seamless space. Waterproof speakers, connected to the salon B&O system, both in the cockpit and on the flybridge will allow guests to enjoy music everywhere on board.

As for the interior design, Sunreef's in-house design has prepared three unique contemporary designs resulting from their expertise of the tendencies on the market, from which the clients can choose their preferred style– trendy black & white, soothing venge & anegre or timeless walnut.

The yacht’s technologic features include carbon mast with canoe boom, square top main sail and Brunton’s folding propellers, the best ones available on the market. She is also extremely easy to handle even for two crew members thanks to the sailing gear smartly placed within a reach of the hand on the flybridge with electric winches, two Yanmar 110 HP engines and original davits system to launch the dinghy from the aft platform. As a ready-to-go vessel, all electrical, plumbing, hydraulic systems are also included within the fixed price.

ADASTRA NOMINATED FOR THE WORLD SUPERYACHT AWARDS

2013-04-16T09:08:00.003+02:00

The groundbreaking tri hulled super yacht Adastra was launched by McConaghy Boats in April 2012. Shortly after launching and commissioning Adastra left Hong Kong for extended cruising throughout Southeast Asia where her owners have been enjoying some of the best cruising Asia has to offer.
Recently, Boat International have announced that Adastra has been nominated as a finalist for the World Superyacht awards to be held in Istanbul on 4th May this year. Now in its eighth year, the World Superyacht Awards is considered the "Oscars" of the Superyacht world.

To be a finalist for this award is indeed a great honour, and congratulations must go to the owners of Adastra for having the vision and conviction to embark on such a project, the Naval Architects John and Orion Shuttleworth, Interior designer Jepsen Design, and of course the team of craftsmen from JMcConaghy Boats Zhuhai China who bought this vision to reality.

SUNREEF IN ASIA AND THE HAINAN RENDEZ VOUS

2013-03-15T10:01:00.005+01:00

Celebrating its 10th anniversary in all splendor at 2012 Festival de la Plaisance de Cannes, the SUNREEF YACHTS shipyard is quickly spreading wings all over the world. Headquartered in Poland, with a US office in Fort Lauderdale and a newly appointed China office in Shanghai give the company the possibility to assist clients in Europe, the Americas and Asia. After having ensured a consistent promotion in Europe and the US, the company has now decided to take a closer look into Asia and China in particular. SUNREEF YACHTS China, managed by Sunreef’s Ewa Stachurska, former PR and now Sales Director in China, operates already from Shanghai and supervise all Marketing and Sales in China and Hong Kong.

The Chinese division will take part at the incoming Hainan Rendezvous in Sanya in March 2013, at the China International Boat Show in Shanghai in April 2013 and the Hong Kong Gold Coast Boat Show in May 2013. All these shows except the Shanghai one will include the presentation of the new Sunreef 70 Sail FENG sold to a Chinese Client and scheduled for delivery in March 2013 after which it will be exhibited as a worldwide premiere at the HRDV 2013 in Sanya.

This superb, blood-red hulled luxury catamaran enchants with its subtle oriental interior design and a great performance in sailing, keeping with the spaciousness and stability of a catamaran. Sea trials and private events will be organized to help understand this still blossoming yachting market, the full potential for a catamaran-yacht. Furthermore, power catamarans range with the new 60 Sunreef Power and the successful 70 Sunreef Power will be another interesting product for the market where power boating still overwhelmingly exceeds sailing.

After a decade of a successful development in the world, especially in Europe and the Americas, the company judged necessary further expansion and this time towards Asia with a special stress on China and its immense potential. Certainly, this market is still immature and yachting is perceived more as a business-related activity helping to maintain professional relationships than pure pleasure or a hobby but it will pick up one day, and on that day Sunreef Yachts wants to make sure that all interested newly emerged enthusiasts will know what fantastic yachts the company has to offer. We can already observe an increasing interest in catamarans, and a curiosity towards a catamaran-yacht. Since the opening of the office, we have been receiving many inquiries about our yachts from potential clients, media and brokers. The actual presence in China brings an immediate increase of interest, Stachurska says.

Sunreef Yachts China office is located within most exclusive plaza in the central Shanghai, Puxi, the Plaza 66.

Full address: Sunreef Yachts China, Plaza 66, Tower 2, 15/F, room 1547, 1266 Nanjin West Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, China

PRIVILEGE MARINE FINALLY LIFTS THE VEIL !

2013-03-04T10:51:00.003+01:00

Since 1985, there have been over 600 Privilege cruising catamarans launched in the world, with 80 units over 17 meters. Built with enviable quality of construction and un-equeled even today by others.

Always watching the market and listening to the owners… Privilege Marine has moved back to the original site in Les Sables d’Olonne, the shipyard offers all facilities allowing the easy delivery of each catamaran and always in the best condition, thanks to :

A highly qualified and dedicated Privilege team,
A 5 years warranty on the structure,
Individual certification by BUREAU VERITAS,
Customization of interiors,
Continuous monitoring and updating of technical systems and technology.

In the 90’s, the shipyard marketed a range of power catamarans, the « EUPHORIE 40 » and « EUPHORIE 44 » with incredible success, the marine press and media were charmed, the clientele likewise… 50 units were sold !

After having listened to numerous comments and clients wishes and studied the possibilities, it was natural for PRIVILEGE MARINE to decide to re-launch a new line designed by the naval architect Marc Lombard « ML Design Team », code name EUPHORIA :

Very modern design with sharp lines,
Coloured super structures offering refinement,
A hull calculated and designed for very good performance,
Optimization of space,
Customized refined layouts,
A large fly bridge with hardtop,
Performance worthy of larger power yachts !
A range available from 15 to 24 meters long…

For who ?

For those who require the « PRIVILEGE » quality,
For those who love sailing on a catamaran
Or for the fans of power boats,
For those who dream about stability during moorings
And about comfort in rough seas,
For those who demand the space of larger yacht without going overboard,
For those who wish to be seen without being really…
For those who simply want to be different…

When ?

The EUPHORIA Serie 6 (around 18 meters) will be the first one produced ; and her launching date will be subject of course to the first order…

LAUNCH OF SUPER LUXURY CATAMARAN QUARANTA ON SUPERYACHT TIMES

2013-02-28T10:40:00.001+01:00

The luxury motor catamaran "Quaranta" (which we have written about many times click on the tag) created by Curvelle and built by Logos Marine was launched on february the 23 rd as we can read in the Superyacht Times articles. This is a really nice project and the result is quite amazing. I like this organic sweet design. Congratulations.

GUNBOAT GO MARCHING ON

2013-02-27T19:01:00.001+01:00

MOONWAVE IN PHUKET AND SE ASIA

The gorgeous new GUNBOAT 60 MOONWAVE recently enjoyed a cruise from Singapore, through the Malacca Straits, to Phuket, Thailand. Meg Minetree and Peter Johnstone from GUNBOAT checked in on MOONWAVE and were honored with a visit from Bob & Margie Guthrie, the owners of GUNBOAT 60-04. MOONWAVE basked during a 3000-mile check-up and will continue her cruising with owners onboard in SE Asia. MOONWAVE is available for charter beginning in April. www.moonwave.com PUT A LID ON IT!! GUNBOAT's major composites team leader Aaron Croswait reports that GUNBOAT 55-01's all carbon deck infused like a dream. Aaron leads our team of highly skilled composite boat builders in our North Carolina yard. All members have been skillfully trained by composites legend Phil Steggall, who you might recall from his OSTAR professional sailing days. GUNBOAT expects the best from its craftsmen and this team delivers! www.gunboat.com

TERESA THOMPSON JOINS GUNBOAT

Joining GUNBOAT's finance and administrative team is Teresa Thompson. Teresa, a Manteo local and avid lover of Jazz Music, chose GUNBOAT over other offers in the über-competitive NC job market. She has over twenty years of outside industry experience in both the corporate and private sector, including having worked with Fortune 500 companies such as Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc., CIGNA, CHD Merdian Healthcare, Snap-on-Tools and Hospira Worldwide, Inc. Teresa beams, "I am excited and looking forward to utilizing my broad skills and knowledge in the areas of Administration, Accounting and Human Resources in assisting Gunboat with achieving their goals and directives." And we are lucky to have her! Before joining GUNBOAT, Teresa made her mark at the North Carolina State Ferry Maintenance facility. She brings brightness to the office and wealth of knowledge to our team.

PHAEDO BLASTS AROUND THE RORC CARIBBEAN 600

PHAEDO completed the 600-mile race in 50 ½ hours. She was 2nd Multihull and 5th to finish Overall. Finishing on the heels of the Irens 63' tri Paradox, the 100' cant keel maxi ICAP, the JV72' Bella Mente, and the RP 112' Nilaya, PHAEDO gave them a run for their money. Behind PHAEDO were various superyachts: a Swan 90, two RP 78's, a Tripp 75', two 90'+ maxis, and a host of other grand prix keelboats. Well done to owner-driver Lloyd Thornberg, Captain Paul Hand, multihull legend Brian Thompson, 'Robo' and the PHAEDO Team!! GUNBOAT is proud of what you have achieved!! caribbean600.rorc.org

UPBEAT ABOARD PANTHERA 1400 MILES TO WINDWARD. 'LET'S DO THIS!'

After a successful Miami Show for the GUNBOAT Team, GUNBOAT 66 PANTHERA left Miami headed for the St Maarten Heineken Regatta with an ominous, week-long forecast of SE winds. Captain Chris Bailet reports that the wind has been on the nose at over 20 knots since departure, "It might take us a day longer to get there than we planned...." 1400 miles to windward in any other sailboat is un-imaginable. Yet Chris's tone remained upbeat. On a GUNBOAT, such a passage can be summed up as, "Let's do this!"

DUAL PURPOSE YACHTS! BACK INTO WORLD CRUISING MODE

Captain Paul Hand reports that PHAEDO is going back into world cruising mode for a transit of the Panama Canal and leisurely cruise up the West Coast of the Americas. PHAEDO will be in St Maarten with her sister-ships during the GUNBOAT CLASS at the Heineken Regatta where her cruising gear and stores will be loaded back aboard, post-Caribbean 600. SLIM REGROUPS AFTER CARIBBEAN 600 Our heart goes out to the GUNBOAT 66 SLIM. She took the lead on the first leg of the multihull class at the RORC Caribbean 600 race. Captain Travis McGarry nailed the start and left the higher profile PHAEDO and PARADOX teams with their heads spinning. In hopes of reducing weight even further than what Gunboat already delivers, SLIM's crew chose to have her outfitted with new, custom, lightweight rudders. Upon rounding Green Island at the Eastern end of Antigua, Team SLIM set their screecher for their blast across to Barbuda. But within minutes, both of their new, custom-ordered rudders exploded from the 20+ knot speeds. Alas, SLIM was forced to retire and limp back to port. SLIM's team is top notch and deserves the best. We know that this is not the last we've seen of this GUNBOAT 66 and expect a very different outcome in future races.

GATHERING OF THE GUNBOAT CLAN

The coming week in St Maarten is building to be a gathering of the GUNBOAT clan. Racing in the GUNBOAT CLASS at the Heineken Regatta will be GUNBOAT 62's TRIBE & ELVIS, and GUNBOAT 66's COCO DE MER, PANTHERA & TIGER LILY. Several other GUNBOATs will also be at St Maarten, participating in various roles. PHAEDO will prepare for her cruising trip through the Panama Canal, SLIM will regroup after her Caribbean 600 race, ZENYATTA will support another GUNBOAT, and we hope to catch up with LAGUZ while she is cruising these waters. GUNBOAT SIGHTINGS &

YOUR GUNBOAT TALES See a GUNBOAT?

Take a picture and send it to us with your name, address, and where you saw it. We'll send you a GUNBOAT hat! If you have a good GUNBOAT story with a photo, send it in, and we will send you a GUNBOAT belt. meg@gunboat.com

VIDEO OF A 74 LUXURY MOTOR CATAMARAN

2013-02-18T09:44:00.000+01:00

Here is a video of a 74 luxury motor catamaran apparently based in Cancun. Does any body have any kind of information on this yacht ?

GUNBOAT 66 "PHAEDO" TRAINING FOR THE RORC CARIBBEAN 600 2013

2013-02-17T18:58:00.001+01:00

TAG 60 COMPILATION - VIDEO

2013-02-15T09:12:00.000+01:00

GUNBOAT, WANCHESE, NC, USA BY BILLY BLACK VIDEO

2013-02-14T09:17:00.000+01:00

GUNBOAT VALENTINES' NEWS 2013

2013-02-12T09:14:00.000+01:00

GUNBOAT 60-04 INFUSED

Xiamen yard President Paul Hakes reports that the infusion of GUNBOAT 60-04 is a huge success. The one piece, all carbon platform is immaculately constructed in female molds. The carbon bulkheads will be assembled while the platform is still in the mold soon after Chinese New Year holidays. With two GUNBOAT 60's launching in early 2013, and two more starting, the GUNBOAT 60 production is on a roll!

CLASH OF TITANS Gunboat Class Dual at RORC Caribbean 600

SLIM, the brand new GUNBOAT 66, will take on her iconic orange sistership PHAEDO in the Royal Ocean Racing Club's Caribbean 600 race that starts in Antigua. The 600 nm, power-reaching course weaves around several of the most beautiful Caribbean islands. The many legs and wind shadows can favor local knowledge. SLIM's Captain Travis McGarry is a GUNBOAT veteran of many years, and has always been at the top of GUNBOAT Class events. PHAEDO will be run by her talented owner/skipper and will feature Round the World Record Holder Brian Thompson in her crew. Former GUNBOAT PR maven, Rachel Jaspersen, and Richard Langdon will be producing YouTube videos of PHAEDO's effort. Tune in! http://caribbean600.rorc.org/

GUNBOAT 55-03 EARNS FLIER MILES

GUNBOAT 55-03 flew out of the perfect GUNBOAT 55 molds recently. GUNBOAT Chief Boat Builder Phil Harvey smiled broadly as he inspected the pristine molded finish and immaculate infused carbon laminates.

JEFF BLACKWELL & TEAM JOIN GUNBOAT

Jeff Blackwell and his hard working paint team have joined GUNBOAT at the North Carolina facility. They are well known for attention to detail and beautiful paint-work on larger sportfishing yachts. Jeff and his team are a key addition to deliver the world-class finish everyone expects of GUNBOAT.

CODE RED ALERT!!Valentines at Miami Show

GUNBOAT will be at the Miami International Boat Show from February 14-17. Come fall in love with GUNBOAT at the end of Pier C at the Bayside Marina location of the show. Best to schedule your VIP time slot in advance to avoid the 45-minute boarding lines! Please contact meg@gunboat.com

PROFESSIONAL BOATBUILDER MAGAZINE VISIT

Billy Black, one of the top yachting photographers, took pictures and shot video for PROFESSIONAL BOAT BUILDER magazine over two days this month. Writer Ginger Gardiner summed up her day on site, "There is simply nothing like this going on anywhere. Seeing such large epoxy-carbon infusion done in series is really exciting." We might add that GUNBOAT has excellent teams on two continents performing beautiful all carbon yacht construction.

CELEBUTANTE!! NOMINATIONS!GUNBOAT 60 Nominated for Asia-Pacific Yachting's 'Best Awards'

While the Oscars and Grammys are making headlines in the USA, the celebutante we are following is the GUNBOAT 60. We learned that this sleek, next generation GUNBOAT has been nominated for several categories including BEST OVERALL YACHT, BEST SAILBOAT (15-20m), BEST YACHT BUILDER, BEST CHARTER YACHT, BEST YACHT DESIGN, and BEST YACHT DESIGNER. We've been told the GUNBOAT 60 has received an unprecedented number of nominations. Voting ends February 15th.
http://www.gunboat.com/series/gunboat-60

GUNBOAT 55: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8........10 When?

The somewhat radical GUNBOAT 55 is attracting record interest. All carbon. Brilliant Nauta interior. Spaces laid out for how we actually use these GUNBOATs in real life. The formula is working and sales continue to build. Post a comment on the GUNBOAT Facebook page guessing the time and date that GUNBOAT 55-10 goes under contract. The person closest to the actual date will win an Orange GUNBOAT belt and GUNBOAT spray jacket.

http://www.facebook.com/gunboatcatamarans

SUNREEF OPENS A BRANCH IN CHINA - INTERVIEW OF LOCAL SALES AND MARKETING MANAGER EWA STACHURSKA

2013-02-06T12:45:00.000+01:00

Sunreef Yachts is spreading its wings around the world. Strongly based in Europe, Sunreef has already opened a branch in the USA in 2009 and now in China. The office is managed by Ewa Stachurska, their talented former PR manager. Ewa, who speaks more than six languages and soon Chinese, is taking up the challenge with a lot of energy. She answered a few questions for us about this new promising market. Thanks for her time.

Sunreef China, Marketing and Sales Manager, Ewa Stachurska

Why did Sunreef open a branch in China ?

After a decade of a successful development in the world, especially in Europe and the Americas, and the opening of the US office in Ft.Lauderdale in 2009, the company judged necessary further expansion and this time towards Asia with a special stress on China and its immense potential. Certainly, this market is still immature and yachting is perceived more as a business-related activity helping to maintain professional relationships than pure pleasure or a hobby but it will pick up one day, and on that day Sunreef Yachts wants to make sure that all interested newly emerged enthusiasts will know what fantastic yachts the company has to offer. I can already observe an increasing interest in catamarans, and a curiosity towards a catamaran-yacht.

Plaza 66 Shanghai, Sunreef China Headquarters Office in Tower 2

Why did you choose Shangai ?

Shanghai is a visit card of the modern and international China, a China interested in novelties, progress, luxury and lifestyle. It is a base for most of medias and prestigious events. The city is an ever buzzing mixture of cultures, expectations and businesses and it is good to start here. We have established the office in Puxi in the upscale Jing'an district, the western part of the city where all major luxury brands are located. Since the opening of the office, we have been receiving many inquiries about our yachts from potential clients, media, brokers. The actual presence in China brings an immediate increase of interest.

Sunreef 70, Sunreef's yacht displayed for the Asian Market

Will you have a boat for display and where will it be docked ?

This year in a month's time we will have a new Sunreef 70 Sailing arriving to Hong Kong and then leaving directly for Sanya to take part in the prestigious Hainan Rendezvous held in the city resort, Sanya, on the Hainan Island, south of Kong Kong. Her permanent base will be a stunning Serenity Marina in Sanya. With this superbly finished yacht in oriental, modern design with red-blooded hulls, we will definitely gain a lot of attention at the show. She will be available for sea trials and a series of private cocktail receptions for VIPs has already been scheduled. This will also be the largest catamaran in China, but I hope that not for long, and we will be able to bring even bigger units within the next few years. I'm absolutely positive that large-sized catamaran-yachts with custom finish will have a bright future in China. The Sunreef 70 will certainly set a new turning point in the perception of a yacht among the Chinese Clients.

Hainan Rendez Vous

Which boat shows will you take part to in the coming year ?

Sunreef Yachts China will exhibit at the Hainan Rendezvous (30 March -2 April), Shanghai International Boat Show (11-14 April), Hong Kong Gold Coast boat show (10-12 May), Shenzhen International Boat Show in October, Xiamen International Boat Show in November and Sanya International Boat Show in December. Apart of the Shanghai boat show, held in land, we will exhibit the Sunreef 70 Sailing at all the shows.

You have been with Sunreef for 6 years as their PR manager, why heading the Asia office is a new challenge for you ?

It definitely is. It requires a lot of energy and work as the business environment is different than in Europe; there is a lot to learn about the beliefs, needs, priorities of the local Clientele but I have a big passion for this country and a very positive approach. I work with the Chinese team and it makes things much easier. Also, most of the people I meet, including our Chinese owners and Clients are very helpful and give most precious advices. Finally, Polish diplomacy with the Ambassador in Beijing and the Consul General in Shanghai lend us a lot of support and follow our activity with much interest. The presence of Sunreef Yachts in China is highly gratifying for the image of Poland abroad, not necessarily associated with the luxury and nevertheless being a leader in luxury catamarans custom made.