Super Yacht News

YPI Crew Have Vacancies

2013-06-19T06:30:00.001+01:00

After a cold and miserable winter for most the weather is heating up and summer has finally arrived in the Mediterranean. This is the time of year when the yachting industry comes alive and there is no better time to change job.

Specialising in superyacht crew placement, YPI Crew have a dedicated team that strive to pair job seekers up with their dream yacht crew position that perfectly fits their skill sets.

The YPI Facebook and Twitter pages are regularly updated with new yacht crew positions that have become available, and so if you don't see anything suitable in this month's blog post keep checking their forums for fresh updates.

Featured yacht crew positions for the month of June are:

A 40m Sunseeker based in Lebanon is looking for an MTU experienced chief engineer. Starting date: ASAP. Salary up to 5500 Euros according to experience

Yacht Stewardess Job available on a 59m private motor yacht for a 2nd Stewardess. Must be a qualified and an experienced Massage Therapist.

2nd officer with OOW and Dive Instructor certificate needed for 65m+ motor yacht with an excellent itinerary.

Stewardess/Masseuses required for 70m + motor yachts for the summer season and long term.

Deckhand required for a 75m private motor yacht with strong water sports experience, including kite/wake boarding.

Wishful Thinking in Malaysia

2013-06-15T19:50:00.001+01:00

Datuk Wira Idris Haron, is the Chief Minister of the government of Malacca one of the States that make up Malyasia.

He has a bold plan to turn the coastal areas of Klebang and Tanjung Kling into the next 'Gold Coast'. He plans to build marinas and make them available to visiting yachts that pass through the Straits of Malacca.

He aims to use the construction of yet more marinas to not only boost tourism but also to create an economic spin off for the local economy. Idris told the newspaper New Straits Times that the marinas would be a private sector initiative that would be supported by government with land and other infrastructures.” He added, “With the marinas, we would also provide services such as maintenance for their vessels, medical attention, food and beverages and also other facilities.”

Yet marinas that have already been built along the coast lie deserted, washed away, or silted up completely. The domestic boating market in Malaysia is non existent. Six years ago the government set up a working group to create a local Boating License. Yet despite good intensions no license is yet available. Without one, you cannot get boat insurance and without insurance you cannot get a bank loan to buy a boat, no matter how small.

Speaking at the launching of two catamarans built by Boat Explorer the Minister suggested that up to 3000 yachts pass through the Straits each year yet records show that numbers are far less than that. Fewer than 100 yacht yachts over 24 metres used the Straits last year and around 750 or so much smaller yachts used the same waterway.

J Class Ready for Superyacht Cup, Palma

2013-06-15T18:23:00.001+01:00

Spectacularly, close racing is anticipated amongst the highly competitive J Class fleet as five of the fleet gather to battle in a J Class fleet race on the 19th June, the first time five J Class yachts have raced together in Europe for almost 70 years.

These five yachts will race against each other

Hanuman
Lionheart
Rainbow
Ranger
Velsheda

Then the J Class will fleet race within the main Superyacht Cup Regatta in Palma, Majorca.   

Spectators will be able to follow the action, either on the water or around the world via the on-board live GPS tracking system, TracTrac. 

Tracking was used on the yachts for the first time during the St Barths Bucket in March, when almost 6,500 visitors viewed the J Class fleet racing, live on the internet.  

Racing at the Superyacht Cup in Palma is organized by The Real Club Nautico de Palma (RCNP) which has immense race management experience and runs large international regattas each year. 

Results will be calculated using the JCA handicap. and UBS are providing a commissioned trophy for the Overall Winner.

Superyacht Industry Seminar, Malta, a Better Destination for Superyachts!

2013-06-14T21:54:00.000+01:00

The third in the bi annual Malta super yacht seminar series, will take place in Valetta on Wednesday 11th September 2013

Content is related to super yachts in general and the Malta yachting industry in particular.

Entitled Malta, a Better Destination for Superyachts the seminar is promoted by International Superyacht Society (ISS) together with the Professional Yachting Association (PYA) and locally based Wilfred Sultana & Associates.

It features the support of Transport Malta—the regulator for all modes of transport in Malta and which has been exceptionally instrumental to promote policies in favour of the industry in the past—who, once again, is also collaborating in the Seminar's organisation.

Other sponsors include:

Kirton & Co Ltd
Medcomms Ltd
Melita Marine Group
Palumbo Malta Superyachts Ltd
S&D Yachts Ltd.
International Yachting Management Ltd
Grand Hotel Excelsior

Dr. Chris Cardona, Minister for the Economy, Investment and Small Business—with responsibility for maritime affairs in general—will be the main speaker at the September 2013 Seminar.

A programme highlighting the topics to be presented and their respective speakers will be announced shortly. Relevant topics related to legal and fiscal incentives, refit and repair, crew training, chartering, policies shortfalls and other interrelated issues will be presented and discussed.

The seminar will now include a 30-minute open discussion by a panel of three experts who will have the opportunity to offer their topic-related points immediately following a number of presentations by guest speakers.

Classic Motor Yacht ‘Fair Lady’ completes refit in Palma

2013-06-14T21:53:00.001+01:00

Built in 1928 by Camper & Nicholsons Shipyard, UK, the 42m Fair Lady is a classic steel hulled and teak-decked motor yacht has been a regular visitor to Pendennis over the past 20 years.

The property of a former chairman of the yard she made her initial visit in 1996 when she received a complete renovation to restore her to her former glory.

Pendennis specialises in such restorations, having worked on other classic yachts such as Adela, Shamrock V and Mariette, rejuvenating and respecting their original heritage.

Now the yards outpost in Palma has recently been completed a six month refit of Fair Lady.

This included a 5 year MCA LY1 survey which required substantial engineering work. Shipwrights carried an overhaul of the main engine and generators, accompanied by a complete maintenance schedule for all engine room equipment.

The company brought in several workers from their UK yard to work alongside local sub-contractors to complete the work. This refit was complemented by a full re-paint, for which all topside joinery was removed, refreshed and reinstalled, and overhaul of the standing rigging.

Based inside the STP facility in Palma de Mallorca, Pendennis Palma offers the complete superyacht service package, whether it be a fully project managed refit or more specific works.

Recent refit projects also include the 1992 Motor Yacht Va Bene, the 26m ketch Velacarina, with new arrivals being the small classic motor yacht Mavana and Lionheart.

Fair Lady Specifications

Built: 1928

Naval Architecture: Camper & Nicholsons

LOA: 42m

Beam (max): 6.4

Draft (loaded): 2.75m

Construction: Steel

Number of Owner/guest cabins: 8

Number of crew cabins: 7

Engines: 2 x 275 HP Deutz RAM6 428 Diesels

Flag & Class: Lloyd's Register

Asia Pacific Superyachts Phuket Expands Headquarters

2013-06-13T10:30:00.001+01:00

They already have offices covering Andaman Islands & India, Bali & Indonesia, Borneo, Hong Kong, Koh Samui, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Singapore, Seychelles and Sri Lanka but now AsiaPacific Superyachts has moved into purpose built offices as it expands.

Phuket is growing”, reports General Manager GordonFernandes: “We have moved in preparation of the exciting times ahead as more yachts discover the amazing cruising available here in South East Asia.”

The new Asia Pacific Superyachts Phuket headquarters will support the growing number of visiting yachts and new marinas being built to meet the increased interest from the yachting industry. Phuket, is a great year-round destination with amazing cruising and sailing opportunities.

While the new offices offer increased facilities and staff to service their clients, Gordon notes the company will continue to keep their APS office at the Yacht Haven Marina, central to all the yachting activities in Phuket, Thailand.

Recently relocated from Patong to the new larger premises, the purpose-built main office provides extra facilities and the finest of services to visiting and resident Superyachts. “Our brand new expanded offices will allow the company to grow; we were running out of space in the old Patong office and we need to expand our charter and crew placement services. New staff are being recruited to support our new office which has been designed to feature extra conference, meeting and video conference facilities – all of which will make it easier for our clients to communicate to us and for our company to support our clients’ needs”, comments Gordon.

The Phuket office has over 20 years combined experience in the superyacht industry led by the highly experienced GM Gordon with Thai owner, JoJo, providing a special relationship link with Phuket Customs, Immigration and Harbour departments.

Superyachts of various sizes have been coming to Phuket for over 15 years, a major destination for yachts visiting the Indian Ocean. Basing their yacht in Phuket for the season, APS Phuket sets forth an itinerary with provisioning and all arrangements for Superyachts cruising to areas such as Myanmar (Burma), the Andaman Islands and beyond.

While in Phuket, the island now boasts three marinas where superyachts can berth along with numerous anchorages while owners and their guests, captains and crew hugely enjoy the paradise island of crystal clear blue waters, stunning beaches, lush tropical ambience and world class onshore entertainment.

Super Yacht Crews Can Learn from Cargo Ship Foundering

2013-06-12T14:46:00.001+01:00

Captain Adrian McCourt is a super yacht manager and is the man who heads up Watkins Superyachts. He is an old fashioned sailor the type who believe in learning from the mistakes of others and from time to time he issues memorandum that the Captains of the yachts he manages can learn from.

The latest is the MAIB investigation report that has been published following the structural failure and foundering of the general cargo ship Swanland in the Irish Sea on 27 November 2011 with the loss of six crew.

Swanland was a typical small, hard-working general cargo ship working in the scrag end of the bulk cargo market where financial margins are tight. The events leading up to her loss arguably accumulated over the 34 years of her service life, as well as her original design and construction.

Her revenues were low and had been further diminished by the recent downturn in the shipping industry. Indeed, Swanland had been making a financial loss for some time and her owner had only continued to operate her in the hope that the market would eventually improve.

Nevertheless, Swanland was subjected to the standard regulatory framework laid down by the IMO and, at the time of the accident, she was certified as complying with all applicable statutory requirements.

The vessel had recently been inspected by her flag state, her classification society and her managers, and had undergone numerous PSC inspections; no significant concerns had been raised about her condition or operation.

Despite this, she was structurally unsound and the survey process has let this crew down badly. It is unlikely that there are too many owners of large yachts chasing non-IACS classification societies for an easy survey regime, and the construction of large yachts would not normally result in such rapid loss of structure and subsequent rapid loss.

McCourt suggests "The Master and crew cannot be criticised too heavily for their actions on abandonment, but some lessons can be learned by the super yacht crew. Seagoing vessels rarely founder in fine weather and drills will generally lack the harsh reality of abandonment in filthy weather in winter. Understanding the correct donning and fastening of immersion suits and lifejackets is essential."

The Pomorskie Rendez-Vous in Gdansk

2013-06-12T13:01:00.001+01:00

Inspired by this year's edition of the, Hainan Rendez-Vous, held in Sanya, China Francis Lapp, President of Sunreef Yachts, decided to create a similar event in Gdansk on a local scale gathering the best of the luxury available on the Polish market.

The result was named the Pomorskie Rendez-Vous and it was held at the Hilton Hotel Gdańsk located in the charming old town of Gdansk just a ten minute drive from the Sunreef shipyard.

Held under the patronage of the President of Gdańsk, Mr. Paweł Adamowicz, and the Marshal of Pomerania, Mr. Mieczyslaw Struk, the event began with the official christening of the new Sunreef 70 Roleeno, and she became the centre of attention throughout the evening.

The event brought together some of the most powerful local and foreign business, people, along with well-known Polish personalities and media although we were not invited!

This first edition is said to be just the beginning of a series of Pomorskie Rendez-Vous that will be held in Gdańsk every year. It is expected to grow as intensely as the luxury market in Poland is clearly doing.

The program also included the presentation of:

Sunreef Yachts with its luxury catamarans
Galeon with its range of sport and cruising power boats
Delphia Yachts with its range or sailing boats.

In addition, the event displayed luxury car brands like Ferrari and Mercedes Benz and hosted a fashion show with the latest Autumn/Winter 2013-14 collection from the most fashionable Polish fashion house La Mania.

Additional attractions were provided by the other event sponsors and partners presenting their best products such as:

Luxury bags
Champagne
Cigars
Helicopters

Hilton Hotel Gdansk provided its best of molecular fine dining accompanied by live music from the trendiest artists. The evening concluded with a spectacular fireworks display on the Vistula River.

Shared Yacht Ownership – Shared Experiences

2013-06-12T09:45:00.000+01:00

Owning a super yacht is for some people, an un-tangible dream.. For others fractional ownership is a viable option.

Smart Yacht is a luxury yacht company offering fractional yacht ownership solutions to clients around the globe who want the joys and benefits of owning a yacht without the sometimes astronomical price tags.

As well as providing customers with fully crewed luxury yacht charters, Smart Yacht guides clients through the buying process to ensure the shared yacht ownership experience is facile and uncomplicated.

No matter of your budget and requirements, the expert team at Smart Yacht HQ will give you all the advice and assistance you need.

Yachting is certainly one of the finer things in life. Experience the glitz and glamour, the high-class events associated with the industry, the rich and famous lifestyle and the celebrity focus. Not only will your yacht enable you to travel the globe and visit some amazing places, you can also watch events such as the Monaco Grand Prix from the comfort of your yacht as it is moored in the bay of Monte Carlo.

Imagine yourself, sitting on the upper deck of your own shared ownership yacht, sipping at your glass of chilled champagne, sampling local delicacies and gourmet products as the yacht cruises the waters of the Cote d’Azur or around the Mediterranean islands of Corsica and Sardinia.

Bath in the warm rays of sunshine, beaming down from the cobalt blue sky, what better way to invest your money than to invest in something which can give you and your family so much pleasure and enjoyment.

Co-owner reviews describe well how that lifelong dream can certainly become a complete reality.

Once you have chosen your dream yacht, Smart Yacht can give help and advice on everything you may need, including: moorings, yacht crew, destinations and yacht supplies

What are you waiting for?

Jump onboard and share the memories, share the experience, share the laughter and of course, share the cost!

Date and decision still pending for proposed changes to the French VAT exemption on charter

2013-06-11T21:53:00.001+01:00

A recent communiqué regarding the French Tax authorities soon-to-be-expected decision to rescind the existing VAT exemption on charter, has caused an element of confusion and misunderstanding amongst a small percentage of the yacht charter community.

Legal advisers to MYBA the Yacht Brokers Association have been following developments in Brussels recently, and would like to reassure members - and the luxury yacht charter industry as a whole – that, as yet, no formal decision on a VAT rate amount and/or an implementation date and timeline has been made by French Tax authorities.

While a decision in the near future is expected, MYBA would like to advise brokers and yacht charter companies looking to confirm French charter business in the short term, that they need not alter their marketing activity, or change their existing trading policies, until a final decision is known.

MYBA advise brokers and charter agents to consider putting together a contingency plan, in anticipation of an expected change.

Count Down to Super Yacht Cup in Plama

2013-06-11T21:53:00.000+01:00

With just over a week to go to the Superyacht Cup Palma the 20 participating yachts are gathering in Palma making final preparations for the four day regatta which starts on June 19^th . The event is shaping up to be one of the most competitive Superyacht regattas of the year with a truly world-class fleet including 5 of the famous J Class yachts.

The racing starts for the J Class on Wednesday 19^th with an exhibition race and the two Superyacht classes will start racing on Thursday 20^th . The final race for all will be on Saturday 22^nd June and the event will be brought to a close with a spectacular Prize Giving Evening at Es Baluard Muesum of Contemporary Art overlooking the yachts and the Port of Palma.

For the first time in Palma all the yachts will carry tracking devices which enable spectators and keen followers in any location to view the races live via the website www.thesuperyachtcup.com , the tracking has been kindly sponsored by Absolute Boat Care, Moll Vell Marina and UBS. The races will also be shown on a screen in the tent at the Race Village and can be watched via the website at any time after the race.

This year the grand tented bar and entertainment area, which is the focus for the social programme, will have a comfortable chill-out area with a cooling gin and tonic bar provided by Puro Beach. Hogan's will once again be managing the main bar and Nespesso will provide the morning coffee before racing.

Music and Entertainment will bring everyone together each afternoon after racing in the usual informal Superyacht Cup style.

Jongert Yachts have just confirmed silver sponsorship and to celebrate the opening of their new office in Palma they will hold an inauguration cocktail party for their guests and clients on their stand on Friday evening.

Vicem 35 Metre is Fitted with Lantic Entertainment System

2013-06-11T15:45:00.001+01:00

The first of the new Vicem Vulcan 35m class by Turkish yacht builder Vicem Yachts is due for delivery this summer

The builder has selected a state-of-the-art entertainment system by Lantic, who make integrated AV / IT systems for super yachts.

The installation will include Lantic’s cabin control feature; delivering full control of the lighting, air conditioning and blinds in each cabin or zone. Additional features will include navigation chart view and service call.

Lantic has specified a system that divides the yacht into 4 external (music only) and 11 internal zones, with each of the latter capable of selecting and running its own choice of media ranging from streaming satellite TV to movies held in the central digital library and online content.

The system will have at its core three media storage servers providing 6 terabytes (TB) of memory with the option to expand to 15TB, a 12-channel central streaming server (CSS) and a pair of Lantic’s HD satellite servers with four channels each.

Depending on the specification for each zone, Lantic is also supplying remote controls, wireless keyboards, docks for iPads and iPhones/iPods and wall-mounted touch panels for Cabin Control. Lantic apps for Apple devices will also be supplied, allowing full control from personal iPads and iPhones

Third Successive Year for the World's Most Luxurious Surfing Event

2013-06-11T15:44:00.000+01:00

This August, Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy is returning for its third successive year, pitching six ex-world champions in a USD 25,000 showdown that has fast gained a reputation as the world's most luxurious surfing event.

This year, groups of surfers wishing to travel to the FourSeasons resort of Kuda Huraa to experience the competition can book the new all-inclusive five or seven-night Group Surf and Stay package.

Available for a minimum booking of four rooms for five or seven nights, the package includes competition day passes aboard the resorts super yacht Four Seasons Explorer, a yacht that we will be reviewing in July when we travel to the islands as guests of Four Seasons

This year's surfing competition will see the hotly anticipated return of Australian surfing legend and two-time world champion, Damien "Dooma" Hardman from New South Wales, Australia, to defend his title in the unique contest that pits world legends across three divisions of surfboard: retro single-fins, twin-fins and contemporary triple-fin thrusters.

" Hardman admitted he was "thrilled" to be returning to Kuda Huraa – and not just for the surfing. "It's great to be returning to Kuda Huraa's luxurious surroundings that I'll get to share with my wife Belinda, and she's as excited as me," he commented. "That being said, I'll be gunning for the Champions Trophy and the USD 25,000 prize money for sure!"

Both the Surfing Champions and Domestic Champions contests are hosted aboard the luxury Four Seasons Explorer – the Maldives' ultimate home based super yacht. And with all competitors, judges and spectators staying on the 96-bungalow private island resort of Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, the camaraderie on the water spills onto the beach each night around cocktails and dinner.

Limited day passes will be available (at a fee) for non-package guests and members of the public wishing to view the event from Four Seasons Explorer.

e3 Systems Appointed first GX VAR for Super Yacht Market

2013-06-11T15:38:00.000+01:00

Provider of global mobile satellite communications services, Inmarsat has appointed e3 Systems as a Value Added Reseller (VAR) of Global Xpress (GX) for the maritime market, specifically serving the 'Super Yacht' market.

e3 Systems, a leader in the supply of integrated communications, networking and advanced IT solutions for 'Super Yacht' owners and operators, has been an Inmarsat Service Provider for 13 years. The company's appointment as a GX VAR was, a natural progression in the relationship between the two organisations.

Frank Coles, President of Inmarsat Maritime, said: "e3 Systems is renowned for its commitment to quality in the maritime market and has been a valued partner of Inmarsat since 2000. Their expertise in both communications technologies and the yachting sector marks them out as an ideal company to partner with us on the exciting launch of GX."

GX is based on Ka-band technology and will consistently deliver higher performance through more compact terminals at a lower cost than existing VSAT services, making it accessible to many more vessels. It will offer the global coverage and reliability for which Inmarsat is renowned, and is complemented by Inmarsat’s award-winning FleetBroadband for extra resilience in the most challenging environments.

In addition to providing their customers with the benefits of GX, the world's first global, superfast broadband service with speeds up to 50Mbps, e3 Systems will continue to offer the full range of Inmarsat maritime solutions to their large base of yachting customers

In April this year, e3 Systems began offering FleetBroadband Unlimited to the yacht market – making them the first Inmarsat Service Provider to target this market with the new 'all-you-can-eat' data service.

Roger Horner, Managing Director of e3 Systems, said: "After a detailed evaluation of Global Xpress, we are very pleased to have been selected as a Value Added Reseller. The new network is truly a game-changer, whichever way you look at it: more data, higher speed, lower cost and global coverage, all from one service provider.

"Inmarsat has addressed all the details that will be important to our end customers with innovations such as lightweight antennas, adaptable service plans, redundancy, systems engineering and compliance. More than anything else, however, they have shown their willingness to listen to partners and customers to ensure that the service they deliver ticks every box. It is this attention to detail that will make it a success."

e3 Systems was formed in 1996 and became an Inmarsat Service Provider in 2000. The company operates throughout the Mediterranean, in the Caribbean and the USA.

Is imitation is the sincerest form of flattery?

2013-06-11T11:41:00.000+01:00

MYBA the Yacht Brokers Association is getting a little hot under the collar over what is sees has theft of intellectual property

While some say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, MYBA has singled out an agreement published by the ISYBA (Italian Ship & Yacht Brokers Association), that appears to emulate the long-established MYBA Memorandum of Agreement and MYBA Charter Agreement forms, which it says, has been circulating amongst a small number of yacht businesses.

MYBA are at pains to stress most vehemently that it is not without good reason that the established MYBA Memorandum of Agreement and MYBA Charter Agreements have long become ‘industry standard’ documents; developed over years of practical use with ‘best practice’ procedures in mind, used widely by brokers and yachting professionals to bring about successful conclusions in the sale, purchase and charter of large yachts.

Subject to ongoing revision by lawyers and yachting professionals, MYBA copyrighted forms ensure the rights and legal interests of all parties are adhered to within a pre-determined time-frame ensuring protection and fairness for all.

Owners, purchasers, charterers and agents should insist upon the distinctive MYBA logo on official Memorandum of Agreement (Sale and Purchase) and Charter Agreement forms, followed by a visible check on the side of the forms to ensure latest revisions, including, MOA (Nov 2008) and Charter Agreement (2009).

Record fleet for 2013 Bailli de Suffren

2013-06-09T10:32:00.000+01:00

The sailing yacht race for the Trophée Bailli de Suffren harkens to historic links between Saint-Tropez and Malta, formalised in 2012 by the twinning of Saint-Tropez with the city of Birgu in Malta, which is home of the race’s final destination Grand Harbour Marina.

The Trophée Bailli de Suffren is a unique spectacle as well as a genuinely challenging yacht race. It’s great to see these historic boats competing in the offshore environment they were originally designed for.

Sponsored by Camper & Nicholson Marinas this years Trophée Bailli de Suffren will see a record fleet of classic yachts on the Saint-Tropez start line on 22 June ranging from the 12m Palynodie II to the majestic 56m Atlantic. This year’s fleet is expected to reach the entry limit of 25 yachts promising a fascinating and highly competitive race.

The Mediterranean’s only offshore passage race for classic yachts, the race covers 600nm over three legs between Saint-Tropez and Grand Harbour Marina in Malta with stop-overs in Porto Rotondo, Sardinia, and Trapani in Sicily. It has been called “the Mediterranean’s most beautiful yacht race” for its unique spirit, the very special yachts and for the ports marking the racecourse.

This year, four past winners of the Bailli are looking to recapture, the “Sword of Honour of Admiral Satan” the race’s overall trophy. 25m schooner Lelantina (1937) won the 2001 Prologue as well as the first full race in 2002; Havsörnen, a 16m Bermudan cutter first launched in 1931, sailed to victory in 2006; the 32m Fife cutter Moonbeam IV (1914) was 2008′s winner and the Herreshoff-designed 20m Rowdy achieved back-to-back wins in 2009 and 2010.

The battle for overall victory will be hard-fought throughout the fleet and not just among the four previous winners. A number of match races within the race are promised, the most dramatic being the head-to-head between the huge replica schooners Atlantic (56m) and Elena (55m), rekindling a rivalry that goes back 85 years to a hotly contested trans-Atlantic duel between their namesakes.

Two Fife cutters, Mariska (27m) and Moonbeam IV (32m), should also be evenly matched. Dating from 1908 and 1914 respectively, both are regulars on the classic yacht circuit and either could be in the running for overall honours as well as vying for the upper hand in their own 600 mile match race.

Star to make Circular Pacific Sales Cruise

2013-06-09T10:31:00.001+01:00

The newly constructed 42 metre Motor Yacht Star built by Kingship will be making a unique Pacific sailing trip and visit some of the major Far Eastern cities.

The trip has been planned to enable prospective buyers and yachting press to inspect and familiarise themselves with this magnificent yacht.

Built by Kingship and designed and engineered by Vripack of the Netherlands, a good example of a long range, contemporary gentlemen’s yacht.

Spacious accommodations, with a light and elegantly appointed interior, sleeping up to 10 owners and guests and accommodating 9 crew.

Star will be at

Phuket Yacht Haven on Sunday June 9^th
Penang on Thursday the 13^th
Singapore on June the 18th and 19^th
She is offered for sale at USD16.5 million.

Distress Equipment: What to Use in an Emergency

2013-06-08T17:37:00.003+01:00

Rescue Laser Flares are hand-held day and night time laser signalling devices that provides a convenient, effective way to signal a rescue party. They are waterproof, rugged design and combines the safety of a laser signalling device with the convenience of a flashlight.

Unlike pyrotechnic flares, they are non-flammable, environmentally safe and can operate continuously for 72 hours on replaceable batteries.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has however issue a press release about devices the likes of the one shown here. It says the MCA is aware of the development and marketing of hand-held non-pyrotechnic devices or Electronic Visual Distress Signals (EVDS) that are being offered as alternatives to pyrotechnic flares.

Geoff Matthews a spokesperson for the MCA, said:

"The MCA notes the likely benefits of EVDS such as cost, safety and ease of disposal. However, from a practical perspective the signal produced by these devices is different to that produced by a hand-held pyrotechnic flare. We are concerned that electronic visual distress signals may not be recognised as such, with potentially fatal consequences’’.

"Therefore our advice is that EVDS, for the time being, should not be carried as a substitute for conventional pyrotechnic flares. However, commercial and recreational vessels of all sizes may carry EVDS in addition to pyrotechnic flares and use them as locating devices. Their limitations should be recognised though and all parties involved made aware of the type of signal being generated.”

Work has begun internationally to research the effectiveness of EVDS. For example, the US Coastguard has commissioned a study which the MCA is positively supporting by monitoring and contributing views. The aim is to work towards recognition of these devices. To do this, EVDS need to be accepted as fit for purpose by the International Maritime Organization. A change to Annex IV of the Collision Regulations will also be required to give EVDS full recognition as distress signals. The MCA will provide updates from time to time as this work progresses.

For more advice to Mariners see MIN 464 (M+F)

Another Legend From Dashew Offshore Is Born

2013-06-08T17:14:00.001+01:00

From Sue Grant at Berthon comes news that she is able to look after anyone seeking the perfect sub super yacht explorer vessel. At just under 24 At under 24 metres (even on a hot day) she has a range of 8,100 nautical miles at 10 knots, with UK to East Coast of North America range at 12 knots. Offering heavy weather capability, including recovery from capsize, she is the ultimate explorer yacht. She has a 1.35metres draught and but also the ability to dry out on tidal flats and that opens up vast new areas to exploration.

The FPB 78’ from Dashew Offshore, Ltd will be built at Circa in New Zealand.

She comes with all the iconic qualities of her sisters and with unmistakable Dashew DNA. She is designed by Linda and Steve Dashew who have already sold on their 25 metre Windhorse to take delivery of hull #1.

To buy into the concept you really have to understand the Dashew approach to cruising. They are the Muma and Papa of the do it yourself sea gypsy brigade except that these FPB’s (Fast Pilot Boats) cost a whole heap more than a caravan.

The Dashews really understand what it is like to live a life that is all about full on cruising. Hence the yacht's Great Room, Matrix deck and hugely comfortable accommodation for her owners and 4 guests.

She also offers crew accommodation, and a large workshop aft of the stand up engine room.

She combines the proven unmatched sea going characteristics of the her 19.5 metre baby sisters (7 of which are now crossing oceans), Windhorse (with more than 60,000 miles under her keel), and an interior layout that incorporates the best of the acclaimed very big sister the 29 metre FPB 97.

The FPB 78s will be built to MCA Category Zero as standard, with 12mm bottom plating, 16mm in the turn of the bilge, and a 24mm grounding flat through a centreline section of the hull. Hull framing and plating are beyond what would normally be considered ice class.

She comes with a specially design double bottom 4.7m tender, that includes a fixed shade awning and removable protection for the crew in wet or cold weather. It comes equipped with twin outboards, and is the ultimate dinghy for exploring away from the mother ship.

Marina Berth With its Very Own Butler

2013-06-08T12:36:00.003+01:00

Taking marina service to the next level this season is the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay who plan to introduce a Butler who will serve yachts using their marina.

The stunning hotel on the coast of Turkey is one of our favourite places to stay when we are in Bodrum. With the launching this complimentary service for those sailing the beautiful Turkish coast it makes Barbaros Bay one of the best places to dock this summer.

Located on its own private bay in Bodrum, Turkey, the stunning Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay is known on the sailing scene as the hot spot place to drop anchor for a day of stylish luxury, with a host of sensational facilities to enjoy.

A fully qualified Captain, the is on hand to guide sailors into the bay and greet them with a refreshing cocktail or bottle of champagne on arrival, making their experience at the hotel seamless from start to finish.

Sailing guests are welcome to enjoy the facilities of the hotel for as long as they choose. For day visits, the Barbarossa Beach Restaurant is the lunch time mooring spot, the place to see and be seen, with innovative cocktails, healthy Mediterranean cuisine and chilled out music. A prime spot for people watching, here guests can swoon over the selection of boats moored in the bay, and the Marina Butler is there for guests to call ahead to order lunch and drinks, maximising time on land.

For sailors and sun seekers wishing to relax for longer than lunch, the Marina Butler is on hand to help. A spa aficionado himself, the Marina Butler can advise on and book treatments from the unusual spa menu, including cleansing hammam treatments, perfect after some time at sea, or a relaxing watsu water massage treatment. What’s more, during their time at the hotel, guests are also welcome to use the peaceful infinity pool or the new, adult only silent beach for some real peace and quiet, complete with call button on the umbrellas to order more cocktails. To stretch the legs and get some speed up, the Marina Butler will also arrange water-sports sessions for thrill seeking guests.

The Marina Butler will personally arrange evening meals for guests, at one of the many restaurants at Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay, including the adult only La Luce or Saigon Club, which comes complete with views over the bay. If sailing guests prefer, the Marina Butler will arrange private catering for the boat, preparing a breakfast hamper packed full of fresh fruit, breads and champagne, to a 6 course evening meal, or even just cocktails and canapés to enjoy in privacy on their boat under the stars.

If guests can’t bear to leave, they are welcome to check in to one of the 149 spacious bedrooms or 24 suites at the hotel before setting sail a few days later.

From catamaran, to yacht to gin palace, the Marina Butler is the essential butler for sea lovers this season.

Docking at Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay costs from 150TL (£52). The Marina Butler is a complimentary extra for guests mooring at Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay.

Nightly rates at the hotel start from 265 euros per room, per night including breakfast, based on two sharing.

Crew Development Program Extended to Yacht Management Fleet

2013-06-07T12:12:00.000+01:00

Following the positive response from their senior charter crew over the past six months to the implementation of professional leadership coaching within their charter fleet, Camper & Nicholsons have made the decision to extend this innovative service to the yacht management fleet as well.

In November 2012 Camper & Nicholsons retained the services of Alison Rentoul, The Crew Coach, to support their senior charter fleet crew with professional leadership coaching.

In addition to having access to a range of courses designed to enhance existing leadership skills, all Captains and Heads of Departments also have access to private leadership coaching and support from Alison whenever they need it.

Officially recognising the essential role of crew in successful yacht operations, this initiative has sent a very positive PR message to the entire industry and received widespread approval among crew.

Could it be that Sunseeker is to be sold again? This time to the Chinese?

2013-06-07T11:31:00.001+01:00

Could it be that Sunseeker is to be sold again? This time to the Chinese?

A Financial Times report has suggested that Sunseeker might be bought for around £300m and that the deal would be completed by the end of June, subject to approval of the appropriate regulators.

The FT also quoted Wang Jianlin, chairman and founder of Dalian Wanda, saying: “We bought the best yacht company in the UK.” However he did not indicate the deal involved Sunseeker by name.

Stuart McIntyre Managing Director of Sunseeker has declined to comment when questioned by IBI on reports that the possible purchaser is the Chinese group Dalian Wanda.

McIntyre had earlier told IBI a few weeks ago that the Dalian Wanda Group was buying into Sunseeker China, one of the two Chinese mainland distributors of Sunseekers. He told IBI that these talks might draw other potential buyers, and said: “We will not be talking with anyone else.”

Earlier this morning Sunseeker found the need to issue a statement confirming

Sunseeker is in discussions with a third party over the sale of a majority stake in the business It added: “Sunseeker will remain a British company, headquartered in Poole, Dorset and will maintain its existing primary production bases in the UK, along with its current workforce and infrastructure.

The statement went on to say “The existing management team and representatives of FL Partners will remain on the Sunseeker Boards and founder Robert Braithwaite will continue to be involved in the business and remain as group president.”

It also added that: "Robert and Sunseeker’s management team will make a significant reinvestment in the business, providing continuity and a strong platform for the new model programme currently being developed in Poole."

Gulf Craft Eyes Indonesian Yacht Market as the Country Rides Wave of Wealth

2013-06-07T10:56:00.002+01:00

Gulf Craft, the manufacturer of luxury yachts and fibreglass boats, based in Dubai is continuing its strong push into the South East Asian market with a presence at the upcoming Indonesia Yachts Show, which takes place from June 8-9 in Jakarta.

The builder is predicting a bright future for the luxury consumables market in Indonesia as the country gets set for an influx of High Net Worth Individuals and significant wealth generation

Indonesia, which is home to one of the world’s fastest-growing pools of private wealth, is expected to see a sea change in coming years as the number of HNWIs witnesses a significant increase.

According to the “Wealth Report: Asia” released by prominent Swiss private banking group Julius Baer last year, the number of High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs) in Indonesia is set to increase to 104,000 in 2015, from a mere 33,000 in 2010.

That said we were surprised not to see Gulf Craft present at the Korean International Boat show when we visited earlier this month.

“We anticipate a significant surge in interest in luxury goods in the coming years and we want to grow with the market,” said Gulf Craft’s Chief Operating Officer Erwin Bamps.

“We were one of the very first companies in the yacht business to recognize Indonesia’s potential and have had a presence in the market for more than two decades. Our strong experience in emerging markets, our understanding of the needs of Asian customers and the heightened interest we received at recent Asian boat shows such as the Hainan Rendez-Vous, Singapore Yacht Show, the Phuket International Boat Show and the China International Yacht Show in Shanghai place us in a very favourable position to service the Indonesian market with yachts that are made for its waters.”

Bamps added that Indonesia has an avid appetite for consumer goods and that this extends into the luxury goods market.

“The increase in disposable income combined with active marina development will lead the way for more Indonesian HNWIs to take to the water and we are watching the market very closely,” added Bamps. “We have a strong dealership network in Asia and we are constantly looking for ways to boost the support facilities we offer our clients. We are confident that our long presence and experience in Asia will serve us well in the years to come, especially in strong growth markets such as Indonesia.”

YDSA and RINA Join Forces to Benefit Members

2013-06-07T10:25:00.000+01:00

The Yacht Designers and Surveyors Association (YDSA), has announced the signing of a Membership Agreement with the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA), enabling reciprocal arrangements for members of both organisations.

The new agreement will allow all Full and Accredited members of the YDSA to become Corporate members of RINA (MRINA) without submitting detailed documentation.

In addition, Full and Accredited YDSA members who can demonstrate a minimum of five years superior responsibility, via submission of a Professional Review Report to RINA, may also be elected to Fellow of RINA (FRINA). YDSA Affiliates members can apply to become an Associate Member of RINA (AMRINA).

The agreement also ensures all RINA members who work in the surveying of small craft will have their RINA membership taken into account when applying for YDSA membership.

YDSA members seeking RINA membership will benefit from receiving a professional qualification, which is internationally recognised as demonstrating the achievement of the highest standards of professional competence and integrity.

Lantic Entertainment Systems Opens Demonstration Suite in Heart of European Super Yachting

2013-06-05T11:51:00.000+01:00

Lantic Entertainment Systems, a manufacturer of integrated AV / IT systems for super yachts, has opened its first public demonstration suite. Located at Alblasserdam, a short distance south-east of Rotterdam in the Netherlands, conveniently positioned right at the heart of the Dutch super yacht industry.

The suite is hosted by electronics specialist Admarel BV, and allows visitors to experience the full Lantic experience including movies and music on demand, satellite TV, surfing the internet, accessing content held on third-party Apple devices, CCTV and much more, using both the company’s own remote control and the RC20 app on an iPad or other Apple device. The demonstration system also includes an integral cabin control for the dimming of lights, and AC and blind control.

The Lantic system is connected to a 42-inch Samsung monitor and surround-sound speakers to deliver a rich, immersive experience.

“This new facility will enable visitors to experience a Lantic system first hand at a time that suits them and in an easily-accessible location,” said Lantic’s Peter Bouman. “They will also be able to examine the hardware and see our latest upgrades the moment they are released.”

Representatives of shipyards, owners, advisers and others involved in the superyacht industry can use e mail to make an appointment or can telephone on +45 7030 0071. Members of the Lantic team will join guests for demonstrations and answer any technical questions or enquiries regarding customisation.