The 55m Heesen superyacht, Project Apollo has been sold. The sale marks Heesen’s fifth of 2021, rounding out an already hugely successful year for the shipyard.
Key features of Apollo include a fuel-efficient Fast Displacement Hull design, ocean-crossing range, huge interior volumes and a timeless profile. These impressive features paired with Heseen’s renowned build quality are what led to the buyers’ purchase of the superyacht.
“2021 has been a very successful year for Heesen. Our semi-custom yachts, which are available on short delivery schedules, are making waves all over the world,” stated Friso Visser, Heesen CCO.
An external design by Omega Architects incorporates expansive floor-to-ceiling windows to bring a sense of sea and sky inside. Also, horizontal lines that increase the optical length of the yacht whilst reducing perceived height are in place to give Apollo extra visual impact.
The interior design of Apollo comes courtesy of Luca Dini Design & Architecture. With an interior characterised by light and warm tones, as well as contrasts in texture, Apollo creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for the owner and their guests. The vessel accommodates twelve guests in six staterooms, all of which are en-suite.
Heesen Project Apollo is due for delivery in Autumn 2023.
Turquoise Yachts have announced M/Y Neptune, a 65m superyacht designed to offer great value in its highly competitive 55-65m category. The design marks a collaboration between the Istanbul-based shipyard and Italian design house Hot Lab.
Picture: Turquoise Yachts
The sleek and stylish vessel resembles a torpedo slicing through the water. This, paired with low bulwarks accentuating the sheerlines on each deck gives Neptune the illusion of even more length. The use of glass on board allows for uninterrupted vistas, so whether guests are cruising the Caribbean or the Baltic, the view will always be immediately available.
Picture: Turquoise Yachts
Neptune’s guest sleeping facilities comprise 1 owners’ suite, 2 VIP cabins and 4 guest cabins. Elsewhere, she houses a cinema, beach club and gym for guests to enjoy during their trips. Over 7 crew cabins and a designated cabin each for the First Officer and Captain, the vessel accommodates 16 crew.
Picture: Turquoise Yachts
Main Specifications
Length: 65.0 m / 212.88 ft
Beam: 11.8 m / 38.6 ft
GT: 1328 approx
Material: Steel hull and aluminium superstructure
Exterior Designer: Hot Lab
Interior Designer: Hot Lab
Naval Architect: Turquoise Yachts and Azure Naval Architects
To read about other new builds and designs, visit our new builds page
WATCH: 2 Superyachts Destroyed By Fire in Rhode Island Marina
Two superyachts were engulfed by flames in an aggressive fire at a marina in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. The blaze, which raged for 8 hours on December 10th, has left both boats completely destroyed.
The 30m Ocean Alexander vessel, Drinkability and a 32m sailing yacht named Danneskjold, are the two casualties of the incident. One man was sent to hospital with burns.
Drinkability was under repair when the flames took hold last Friday morning. The fire then spread to Danneskjold “within minutes”, according to an eyewitness at the scene. The raging fire sent thick plumes of smoke into the air, which could be seen from afar.
The owner of Danneskjold, Bill Duker, said that his crew were very shaken up after having to “run for their lives” to escape the fire. He further expressed sadness for the crew, stating, “for us, it’s a financial issue but for them, it’s their home and their jobs and all the plans they had made”. Duker purchased Danneskjold in October and has not even set foot on board yet.
Thankfully the fire was contained before it could wreak further havoc on nearby vessels, which included valuable vintage yachts.
36m Phi Chase Boat ‘Phantom’ Launched By Alia Yachts
The 36m chase boat ‘Phantom Phi’ has been launched by Turkish shipbuilder Alia Yachts. It is a companion vessel to Royal Huisman’s Phi and is “literally a shadow of the longer beauty queen,” says Cor D. Rover, her exterior stylist, who also designed Phi.
About The Design
Speaking further on Phantom’s design, Rover says:
“we simply looked at the design DNA that we gave mothership Phi, which consisted of a set of organically curved, sheer lines, contrasting black and blue surfaces, and sharp-edged and curved wing stations. We applied this DNA to Phi Phantom as much as we could, when time permitted. Alia did a fantastic job in sculpting our ideas in aluminium without the forgiving help of filler material!”
Features
The vessel will house many toys and tenders for the owner of Phi and their guests to enjoy whilst voyaging across the world. Amongst the toys and tenders are a 12.3 Spirit tender, jet skis, bikes and the space to accommodate a car. Phantom will also hold extra fuel and additional laundry facilities, which increases Phi’s guest capacity. Three cabins will house three permanent crew members, with an extra cabin for visitors. Additionally, Phantom accommodates a spacious crew mess and galley for the comfort of the crew.
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Vladimir Putin is one of the most polarising political figures in the world. Love him, or hate him, he has a stronghold over the Russian political system and is therefore likely to be in the public consciousness for many years to come. He has accumulated a massive estimated fortune of $70-200 billion and has made sure to spend it on what matters: building his own superyacht fleet (because one isn’t enough, apparently). Read on to find out all about the boats that make up his $150 million collection.
The Graceful
The Graceful is both the largest and most expensive yacht in Putin’s current collection. It was built by Sevmash in Russia before heading to Germany for outfitting by Blohm + Voss in 2014. The Graceful was then sold to the billionaire for a staggering $100 million. If you thought the outright cost was outrageous, wait until you hear its annual running costs ($5-10 million every year). The Graceful is a sleek and stylish steel/aluminium ship that features good looking design by H2. The yacht is a party palace, with space to accommodate up to 14 guests and a 15×10 foot dance floor to keep visitors entertained. When the dance floor is not in use, it handily transforms into a luxurious indoor pool.
Chayka
Chayka, which means ‘The Seagull’ in English, is the next superyacht belonging to Vladimir Putin. The 54m vessel was built in 2009 by the Turkish shipyard Turquoise Yachts. Two years later, after chartering the vessel, Putin decided to buy it for the Russian Presidential Administration. Chayka was purchased to host formal events and meetings between political figures. With a swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym and beach club as well as a 100sqm dining room, it certainly can’t be the worst place to go on a business trip. The superyacht is estimated to be worth $34-45 million.
The Olympia
The third superyacht owned by the Russian President (and apparently his personal favourite) is The Olympia. Built in 2002 by renowned Dutch shipbuilder Feadship, the 57m vessel features interior design by Mark Hampton and John Gallagher. Not very much is known about this vessel, just that it is rumoured to have been a gift from Roman Abramovich to Putin. If the rumours are true, the vessel, which has an estimated cost of $35-50 million, surely has to be one of the most extravagant gifts ever given.
Petrel
The final yacht owned by Vladimir Putin is the somewhat more humble Petrel, which measures 35m in length. Unfortunately, Petrel remains mysterious, with very little information available. We know that Petrel has a maximum speed of 14 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots. The elegantly decorated cabins with private balconies can house 16 guests comfortably and 12 crew members. Whilst the price of the vessel is unknown, a similar model is known to have sold at $16.8 million, so a price tag in this region is likely.
5 Bravo Eugenia Facts: Who Is Her Owner? What Does She Cost?
Ever since Oceanco’s impressive superyacht Bravo Eugenia debuted, yacht lovers have been wondering who her owner is. And what did she cost? Today we bring you 5 interesting facts about Eugenia.
Photo by Oceanco Yacht
She’s A Giant!
At a length of 109m and with a gross tonnage of 3,418, Bravo Eugenia is undoubtedly a mammoth of a yacht. At her length, she is amongst some of the most notable yachts over 100m, such as Lurssen’s 2021 delivered Ahpo (previously named Enzo) and Lloyd Werft’s infamous Luna, which recently made headlines.
She’s Got A Famous Owner
Jerry Jones is the proud owner of the massive Bravo Eugenia. If you thought owning one of the biggest superyachts in the world is enough, it isn’t for Jones, who also owns the Dallas Cowboys. He enjoys the vessel alongside his wife Eugenia, from whom the superyacht gets her name.
She’s Very Expensive!
Jones, the owner of Eugenia, has accumulated an eye-watering net worth of $8.5bn. Due to his immense wealth, the superyacht, which cost him $250m, only made up a fraction of his overall fortune. The prioritisation of incorporating eco-friendly features over reducing costs is one reason for the yacht’s high price tag.
Bravo Eugenia is kitted out with a whole host of sustainability features that make her more eco-conscious. She boasts an enhanced hybrid propulsion system, minimal allocation of technical space and 30 per cent fewer fuel needs. She also has 100sqm of guest space at the waterline level. This reduces the need for extra length, and therefore extra power.
She’s An Award Winner
With four nominations and two wins in 2019, Bravo Eugenia has proven to be a major star in the superyacht world. The vessel picked up awards for her sustainability at ‘La Belle Classe Explorer Awards’ and was the recipient of the ‘Yacht of the Year’ title at World Yachts Trophies.
To keep up to date with the latest Superyacht Content News, click here.
Yacht Crew: Enjoy an Adventurous Weekend in Montenegro!
The Porto Montenegro ACREW Superyacht Winter Games are returning for the third year running!
Superyacht crew and industry professionals are invited to participate! It’s a fun and competitive weekend- full of mental and physical challenges.
Do your crew love winter sports like skiing or snowboarding? Do you all love a bit of healthy competition? Or do you just want to win €3000?Then these games are for you! Whether it’s you, a few of you, or an entire crew. Porto Montenegro provides an opportunity to get competitive and stuck into some solid team building over your quiet winter period. Want to know more about the jam-packed agenda? Here’s what to expect:
When do the Porto Montenegro ACREW Superyacht Winter Games Take Place?
The games will all take place over the weekend of the 4th-6th February.
Porto Montenegro ACREW Superyacht Winter Games 2020
Where do the Porto Montenegro ACREW Superyacht Winter Games Take Place?
The event takes place on Bjelasica mountain in Kolasin. It is the heart of Montenegrin skiing centre and one of the snowiest mountains in Europe. You will witness the most stunning views!
Bjelasica mountain in Kolasin
What’s on the Agenda?
Participants are preparing for an atmosphere of healthy competition, team building, fun parties, and incredible Montenegrin food. It is truly one of the most exciting events on the Porto Montenegro winter calendar! They will be taking keen participants on a mountain sports adventure. Expect typical snow sports like skiing and snowboarding. As well as unconventional “Big Foot” racing on wooden skis to add a fun and competitive edge to the tournament.
Porto Montenegro ACREW Superyacht Winter Games 2020. Big Foot Racing.
On Friday, expect a lovely evening meal at the Bianca Hotel followed by a quiz to get everyone in the competitive spirit. Saturday, the games will begin! After breakfast, there will be a short briefing, and competitions will run from 10 am until 4 pm with a lunch break in between. There will be a post-game dinner, followed by a well-deserved award ceremony. And of course, no crew event would be complete without an after-party with plenty of booze!
Above all this, each party will have a full day of skiing in the Montenegro mountains. This will occur on Friday for Parties coming from Barcelona. And, on the Sunday For Tivat Parties.
What’s the Prize?
The Winners of the games will receive an incredible cash prize of €3000, thanks to the support of A+ Yachting and Evolution Yacht Agents!
Porto Montenegro ACREW Superyacht Winter Games 2020. Award Ceremony.
Participation and Accommodation
Participation is open to all superyacht crew members and industry professionals, signing up in teams of four. All are welcome from the Porto Montenegro marina crew members to crew from other marinas in the Adriatic and wider Mediterranean.
Entries are priced at €150 per person. This covers the participation fee, basic accommodation as pictured below, food, sports equipment, instructors, ski passes and airport transfers.
Accommodation- Mirovic Apartments Chalet
Accommodation- Mirovic Apartments Chalet
If you are based in Barcelona, Porto Montenegro has already booked in flights. The early-bird price is €350, inclusive of flight and one night out in Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro.
Prefer a luxury stay?
For those who want to enjoy a little extra pampering, Porto Montenegro. will also charge €470 for a stay in the 4-star Bianca hotel & spa during the games. Early bird prices are available until December 19th, 2021, but spots are limited. So, get in there quick!
Hotel Bianca
Hotel Bianca
So, let’s get competitive and be sure not to miss it!
For more of the latest news and content, click here.
Dubai Superyacht Summit 2021: What Is It?
The International Superyacht Summit is coming to Dubai this year from 8-9th December 2021. It’s an important event for the superyacht industry, but what does it involve, and what happens there? Read on to find out everything there is to know about the event.
What is the International Superyacht Summit?
The International Superyacht Summit, which started in 2018 was initially dedicated to the development of the UAE as a preferred winter destination for superyachts.
However, organisers are now looking to cast a wider net and address other global topics by introducing two new themes: The first theme addresses how superyacht marina developments empower lifestyle and tourism. Also, it looks to discuss the role of the upscale yachting industry in new and consolidated tourist destinations. The second theme concerns emerging trends in superyacht ownership.
It asks how builders can cater to the needs of a younger generation of owners and charterers. This trend brings an increased awareness of environmental issues and a generation of buyers who will not accept unsustainable practices.
Where is it taking place?
This year, the Summit is taking place on the prestigious Queen Elizabeth 2, in Mina Rashid Marina in Dubai. The Queen Elizabeth 2 reopened its doors in April 2018 as one of Dubai’s most iconic hotels. She has a rich history spanning more than 50 years and is saturated with British heritage. Today, she continues her legacy as a 13-deck hotel, dining, entertainment and events destination.
What happens at the event?
The summit, which is primarily a place for networking and making connections, includes many conferences and presentations. Top industry figures such as Farouk Nefzi of Feadship and Jan Timmerman of Royal Huisman will be of those speaking. A host of topics will facilitate thought-provoking ideas and discussions. Topics such as ‘building the perfect superyacht destination’, and ‘next-generation customer experience’ are on the agenda.
Antigua Yacht Show 2021: What To Expect At This Year’s Event
The 2021 Antigua Yacht Charter Show kicks off on 4th December and runs until 9th December. It is an annual event that sees stunning charter yachts showcased to a sun-soaked Caribbean backdrop. We are bringing you a rundown of everything to expect at the event this year.
60th Anniversary Celebrations
After the cancellation of last year’s show due to Covid-19, the Antigua Yacht Charter Show is back and celebrating its 60th anniversary. Organisers have put together the biggest show yet to celebrate this major milestone. Impressive boats, great food and an exciting chefs competition are amongst the entertainment.
Where is the Antigua Yacht Show?
The show takes place over three scenic locations in Antigua. Nelson’s Dockyard Marina in English Harbour serves as the main hub of activity for the show. There are further showings at Falmouth Harbour Marina and the Antigua Yacht Club Marina, both in Falmouth Harbour. The locations are all connected by a shuttle service, making travel between venues a breeze for visitors.
How many yachts are Attending?
Between 50 and 70 yachts will attend this year. They will range from more compact vessels to enormous 50+m superyachts. One of the largest yachts attending is the 65.4m M/Y Triumph, built by renowned shipyard Benetti. You can read about the five yachts we are most excited to see here.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CVfsiGVDf-d/
What is the schedule of the show?
There is plenty to see and do over the six days, including numerous yacht showings and opportunities to network with other event-goers. Additionally, there are dedicated times each day to enjoy delicious local food. The final day allows guests to book private viewings and get on the water. Visitors can enjoy all this whilst taking in the beauty of Antigua.
Are there Covid precautions?
Organisers of the 2021 show are taking precautions to make sure visitors can all enjoy the event safely. Networking events are organised with Covid in mind, whilst sanitation and regular cleaning will keep guests safe. Also, a Mobile Medical Service will be stationed at Nelson’s Dockyard during the Antigua Charter Yacht Show. A doctor and team of nurses providing Covid testing will be readily available for all visitors.
For the full itinerary of the 2021 Antigua Yacht Show click here.
To keep up to date with the latest Superyacht Content News, click here.
Benetti B.Now: First 50m Superyacht in Series Unveiled
Benetti has unveiled ‘Iryna’, the first 50m superyacht from its B.Now series. The steel vessel is one of four models in the series which all feature an exterior design by RWD. The B.Now series, which aims to appeal to the most forward-thinking owners, includes yachts with lengths of 50, 58, 66 and 72 metres.
Photo: Benetti
The B.Now 50m model features an array of luxuries, including a 36-square-metre beach club and an infinity pool that looks like an extension of the stern deck. Designed with outdoor-loving owners in mind, almost half of the livable space is outside. Interiors are fully customisable to the owners’ desires and will be sure to exemplify Benetti’s renowned craftsmanship and quality.
For maximum comfort and enjoyment, ‘Iryna’ includes roomy relaxation and sunbathing spaces and an outdoor lunch area on the Main Deck. Additionally, the Main Deck houses an indoor saloon and dining area. A light and airy owners’ suite, complete with a private balcony, also lives on this level. The Upper Deck accommodates a spacious gym.
Like the other models in the series, ‘Iryna’ is a powerhouse designed to sail long journeys without interruption. The superyacht’s range of 4,500 nautical miles at 12 knots is what makes this impressive feat possible.
Claire Sinclair – West Nautical Yacht Broker Interview
Claire Sinclair is a Mancunian who has led an interesting life, full of career switch-ups before finding her calling as a client manager. We had the opportunity to interview Claire of West Nautical, to ask her all about her life and career.
How did you start your career, and what led you to this point?
I came into the industry pretty late in my career. I already had a family and various experiences in business in the UK via clubs, bars, and restaurants that are all family businesses. It served as an introduction for me to hospitality and events management. I essentially stumbled into my career after I went through a divorce and took an adult gap year. During this time, I completely re-evaluated my life and it helped me realise I didn’t want to be working in a corporate office job anymore. I fell in love with travelling and being on the water after joining my friends on sailing boats throughout this time, which led me to find work as a Chief Stewardess. So, I’d call it all a happy accident.
Do you think it’s a good career path for ex-yacht crew?
Absolutely! I think people who’ve worked on yachts can bring a wealth of experience and value. Especially in the charter side of things, which is what I do, ex-crew can bring so much insight and understanding to the role. They know how the boats work, how they’re run and know all about client expectations. There are truly so many reasons as to why the role fits.
How long have you been in the industry, and what are the significant changes you have seen in this time?
I’ve been doing this for about 5 years now, so not been the longest time to be able to have seen significant change. However, from what I’ve seen, the pandemic has been a massive change. Something really promising I’ve seen is the increase in interest in eco-friendly boats. Clients are specifically asking for this now, and it’s a direction I’m really happy to see the industry going.
You mentioned the pandemic, what has been the biggest impact of Covid for you?
Probably just the extra level of organisation that’s required. There’s also a lot of rearranging contracts and making sure charters can move should there be any covid related issues. I’ve been quite lucky and have only had two trips that had to be moved this year. So yeah, lots of extra paperwork!
The freedom, the flexibility, the fact that you’re putting together dream vacations for people. It can feel like you’re going on vacation with people sometimes too!
You don’t get jealous?
Not really, because I’ve already done it myself. That was the great thing about working as a crew, was that I really got to live that life. I find I’m just excited and happy to share the client’s excitement rather than feel jealous.
What’s your experience of working in a male-dominated industry?
I don’t want to be negative, as I don’t think it would be fair on the many amazing men I work with all the time. Having said that there can sometimes be bigger egos involved, and I believe women can bring a softness to the industry, which I think is important. I’ve always worked in male-dominated industries, so feel I am quite used to it at this point, which might make it a bit easier for me.
So do you have any advice for women wanting to get into the industry?
Go for it, don’t be deterred by the gender imbalance, change has to start somewhere. I would love to see more female captains, for example.
Finally, what do you think the three most important traits for someone in your position are?
Enthusiasm first, because what’s the point in doing something if you don’t love it? Also flexibility. Being able to think on your feet and come up with solutions that aren’t always immediately obvious. Lastly, I’d say knowledge. This comes back to what I was saying about working on boats making you better at the job. With that practical knowledge of how everything works you’re already a huge step ahead.
For our most recent interview with “The Yacht Guy” click here
Project Cosmos: 80m Heesen Vessel Hits the Water
The Heesen Project Cosmos has left the Dutch company’s shipyard in Oss. The 80m vessel which weighs 1,700GT vessel can reach a maximum of 30 knots. Because of this, it is the biggest and fastest all-aluminium yacht ever made.
Credit: Dick Holthuis
The superyacht’s great size and high speed are what makes her so impressive. Due to a low-drag hull design based on Van Oossanen’s Fast Displacement Hull Form, and the skills of Heesen’s naval architects, this was achieved. The yacht is powered by traditional diesel propulsion, consisting of four engines, two gearboxes, variable-pitch propellers and innovative Promas rudders.
Credit: Dick Holthuis
“Today, we are celebrating the launch of a unique yacht,” states Heesen CEO Arthur Brouwer. “Unique not only for our shipyard, as she is the largest we have ever taken on and represents the pinnacle of our achievements to date. Cosmos is also unique in the industry – the largest and fastest aluminium yacht in her class ever built.”
Credit: Dick Holthuis
Winch Design has crafted a beautiful exterior, with clean lines, a sporty look and extensive use of glass creating a timeless profile. The light and calming interior design was penned by Sinot Yacht Design. A neutral palette, with accents of blue hues, help achieve a relaxing environment that helps guests feel immediately at home.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CWljlfbsZdU/
Project Cosmos will remain at Heesen following her launch for commissioning. She will undergo intense sea trials in the North Sea in February 2022 before an April 2022 delivery.
