Southern Wind superyacht builders unveil a new brand identity, which captures the marque’s balance between heritage and innovation.

For Southern Wind, balance is everything.

It’s in the finger-tip control as you take the helm of a high-performance sailing machine, combined with the luxurious comfort and elegance onboard a superyacht. It’s in the leading edge carbon-fibre construction, balanced with 30 years of experience building yachts amply able to contend with the oceans’ sometimes ferocious weather. And it’s in the freedom and flexibility of their smart-custom design approach, balanced with the efficiency of carefully optimised build processes.

Central to Southern Wind’s ethos is this blend of innovation and moderation. The company is always at the leading edge, but never chasing the bleeding edge. It’s a guiding principle inspired by Aristotle’s timeless wisdom: “In Medio stat Virtus”, which shapes every aspect of the company, from the design and construction of its yachts to its own workplace culture.

Boutique offering

Southern Wind has been building luxury sailing yachts since 1991, and has launched over 35 yachts in the 30m+ range in that time. Four incredible yachts are currently in build, including the third SW108, the first unit of the brand new project SW100X, and the phenomenal new flagship SW123, for delivery in 2027.

This September the shipyard unveiled a new brand identity: “The Perfect Balance.” But it’s much more than just a new logo.

The superyacht world is changing, with increasing numbers of yacht builders now merging into large companies. Southern Wind – who have never been afraid of doing things a little differently – are keen to emphasise that they’ve chosen an independent a different path, intentionally remaining as a boutique company that offers its owners a much more personal approach.

Southern Wind CEO Marco Alberti

“While our brand has evolved over the years, we’ve never lost sight of who we are: not only a shipyard, but a partner offering unforgettable yachting experiences,” explains Andrea Micheli, CCO of Southern Wind. “But we felt it was time to describe more clearly who we are today and where we’re headed in the future. This rebranding serves as a reflection of our current and desired positioning in the sailing superyacht industry.”

Southern Wind pride themselves on the fact that ownership is a full-circle process, from design through the entire life of the yacht, with services including After Sales, Yacht Management and Charter Management.

“This new chapter expresses who we are and the values that define us,” adds Micheli. “We guide our clients on a complete journey – starting with concept, moving through smart customization, and continuing with a range of bespoke services after delivery.

“Our community is exclusive by nature, yet inclusive at heart. We welcome passionate sailors of all levels – from beginners to seasoned experts, from clients to crew members – inviting them to become part of a close-knit family of like-minded, understated individuals.”

Inspecting a new mould

Continuity and family

The Southern Wind family holds its members close, as evidenced by the launch of the SW108 Kiboko 4, a new yacht for a previous SW105 owner – see Toby Hodges’ gripping video of sail trialling the SW108 off Cape Town in strong breeze.

So while this rebranding is not just a new logo, fittingly the new monogram captures both a sense of continuity and family, with ‘Southern’ and ‘Wind’ on a single line, and a circular monogram that represents the community of passionate sailors. It was unveiled during a memorable Southern Wind Family Dinner at the beautiful Atzaró Agroturismo deep in the Ibizan countryside, during the prestigious Ibiza JoySail regatta.

Explore the New Southern Wind

To learn more about Southern Wind’s journey and explore the brand’s new look, visit sws-yachts.com/ and follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

The post The boutique superyacht builder: Southern Wind strikes “The Perfect Balance” appeared first on Yachting World.

How do animals remain comfortable and regulate their temperature across a wide range of temperatures and activity levels? Their fur is a key to the answer. It has a naturally open structure, promoting airflow when they are active, yet traps a large volume of air when they are resting.

Could an insulating fabric with similar properties make sailors more comfortable when faced with varied conditions and engaged in a typical mix of short bursts of sustained effort, followed by long periods of inactivity?

Musto has never been afraid to push boundaries to new levels and this is exactly what it set out to achieve with its new EVO Autumn/Winter 2025 collection. An extensive development process focussed on using synthetic materials in a novel way that replicates the benefits of natural fur.

The company is also renowned for extensively testing new innovations to demonstrate their effectiveness. For independent verification of new Primaloft Active Evolve fabric used as an insulating material in the EVO Thermal Primaloft Waterproof Jacket Musto turned to Dr Andy West at the Institute of Applied Sciences at the University of Chichester.

He led a team of researchers who benchmarked the EVO Thermal Primaloft Jacket against two established Musto products: the Sardinia jacket that’s intended for warm-weather use and the Corsica jacket, which is optimised for cooler climates.

Test subjects had to swallow a biometric sensor that would track their internal body temperature and were then placed in a temperature controlled chamber, going as cold as 1°C and as warm as 8°C. Two additional sensors on chest and forearms helped to track body temperature changes during light and moderate activity.

At the lower temperature the EVO Thermal Primaloft Jacket performed as well or better than the fleece lined Corsica jacket, while the same was true at the higher temperature when compared with the Sardinia jacket. The process therefore validated the efficiency of the new insulation over a wide temperature range.

Sailors can therefore be confident of the performance of this impressively flexible garment that bridges the two existing single-purpose jackets and brings a new level of comfort and performance, both for racing and cruising.

In addition to the men’s EVO Thermal Primaloft jacket, there’s a versatile EVO Polartec 3-in-1 Adapt Waterproof Jacket that’s styled for both men and women and has a waterproof shell, plus removable fleece liner, offering flexible layering options for changing conditions.

These advances represent an important step forward in materials science and technology, promising sailors greater comfort in changeable weather, or when long periods of inactivity are interspersed with short bursts of intense activity.
They even offer the prospect of helping to improve the performance of a raceboat before it even leaves the dock. It has long been known that exposure to cold during pre-race preparation reduces mental sharpness, with a lasting impact on performance on the water. Therefore clothing with a high degree of thermal regulation, that you can also wear while racing, can deliver improved racing results.

The collection extends to more than a dozen items, with pricing from £25 up to £225. In addition to the outerwear there’s a full range of technical garments, each has a body-mapped construction that optimises warmth, breathability and freedom of movement.

The EVO Windproof Knit, for example, has a two-layer windproof lining beneath a merino wool and cotton outer fabric. Meanwhile, lighter mid-layers in the range use similar thermoregulating principles to maintain core warmth without overheating.

Find out more about the whole Musto EVO Autumn/Winter 2025 collection at musto.com

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Contest Yachts, long celebrated for its deep family values and hands-on craftsmanship, will have a compelling presence at this autumn’s boat shows across Europe and the USA.

The Dutch semi-custom yard will bring four of its most storied models to three key boat shows. At the Cannes Yachting Festival, visitors will find the European Yacht of the Year 2025-winning Contest 63CS, alongside smaller sister and equally intriguing Contest 49CS. In Southampton, the multi-awarded Contest 55CS returns, while across the Atlantic at the Annapolis Sailboat Show, the Contest 50CS makes its US debut while participating in the Cruising World Boat of the Year 2026 programme which is judged during the show.

Cannes Yachting Festival: Contest 63CS & 49CS

From superyacht ideals to family cruising

At this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival (9-14 September), Contest Yachts’ headline model will be the Contest 63CS, which since announced as the winner of the European Yacht of the Year 2025 – luxury category, continues to draw consistent media praise. Designed by judel/vrolijk & co with interiors by superyacht stars Wetzels Brown, the 19-metre luxury cruiser clearly impressed the award judges. Features that particularly stood out included this yacht’s innovative, transformable aft social deck and the pair of mirror-image VIP guest suites forward of the saloon. This is a very unusual layout at this length and one that sets the yacht apart.

The design’s performance and bluewater pedigree have also been widely praised. Reviewers highlight the 63CS’s ease of handling and effortless performance in even the lightest winds, supported by high-spec systems including electric winches and hydraulic furlers. Below decks, the tranquil ambiance is a hallmark of a Contest yacht, while expansive coachroof glazing delivers superb natural light. As one reviewer put it, “Lusso allo stato puro… naviga con una leggerezza che non fa pensare a un peso… pure luxury sailing with lightness that belies its weight”.

The Contest 63CS

Yachting World’s test team also praised the yacht’s “superyacht-level finish” and smartly thought-through ergonomics revealed at the 63CS’s initial Cannes debut last year. This momentum is amplified by the yard’s rich heritage, as Yachting World’s test editor Toby Hodges observed, “Contest Yachts is one of the largest and oldest family-run yards in the world, and conducts the whole build process on site – a yard with a rich past and a promising future.”

Such words underscore that the 63CS isn’t just a design milestone – it is the culmination of 65 years of craftsmanship, innovation, and bluewater leadership.

Complementing the 63CS at Cannes will be the Contest 49CS, the yard’s first model in the 50-foot sector spinning the cabin arrangement to feature twin aft cabins and a forward owner’s suite, making it equally attractive for family voyaging or sailing with friends. A particular strength of the 49CS’s layout is that Contest has retained its hallmark dual-cockpit style with a spacious aft deck, generous lounging area, tender garage, and fold-down bathing platform – all while preserving the twin-helm’s secure position forward, a defining Contest trait.

Built with the same high-spec composite construction and Lloyd’s Register certification as its larger sister, the 49CS delivers exceptional volume and ergonomics for its class, a superb family cruiser with elegant detailing and serious performance credentials.

Contest 49CS

Southampton International Boat Show: Contest 55CS

Award winning design returns to UK waters

At the Southampton International Boat Show (19–28 September), Contest Yachts will present the Contest 55CS, a bluewater cruiser that has already earned significant accolades – including the European Yacht of the Year, and British Yachting Awards, again in the luxury performance category. At 17 metres, the 55CS offers the same power, performance, and build ethos synonymous with Contest’s evolved lineage.

Inside the Contest 55CS

Designed by judel/vrolijk & co and crafted to exacting Lloyd’s Register standards, the 55CS blends sumptuous styling, exceptional ergonomics, and robust sea-going ability. Inside, light-filled cabins with expansive hull windows and eyeline wraparound glazing are paired with Wetzels Brown’s thoughtful interior styling to deliver effective, practical opulence. The yacht also boasts intuitive control systems and meticulous soundproofing for a markedly quiet onboard experience, even under way. It’s a hallmark of the yard’s refinement: a delight below decks – restful, calm, with only the faint fizz of the passing seas.

Contest also emphasises owner operation as a cornerstone of its design. High-specification soft- and hard-ware run throughout, with powered systems at fingertip reach, retractable bow thrusters, self-furling gear, and automated conveniences all ensuring ease, confidence, and simplified maintenance. It makes for a superyacht-standard package, delivered in a size perfect for capable owner-sailors.

The Contest 55CS

Annapolis Sailboat Show: USA Premiere of the Contest 50CS

A new generation dual centre cockpit contender

In the USA, the flagship arrival will be the Contest 50CS, making her American debut during the Annapolis Sailboat Show, where she’s also an invitee in the prestigious Cruising World Boat of the Year 2026 programme.

This latest-generation 50-footer revitalises the centre-cockpit concept with superyacht-inspired volume, assured performance – both upwind and downwind in all conditions, and with low angles of heel – and a remarkable ease of handling that allows even for confident single-handed sailing.

Below on the Contest 50CS

Judel/vrolijk’s modern hull form pairs with Wetzels Brown’s light-filled interiors, delivering a yacht that is as elegant as it is seaworthy. A generous aft master suite, a welcoming forward guest cabin, and the option of a third cabin reflect the yacht’s balance of luxury and practicality. On deck, twin helms, a clean walkthrough cockpit, protective curved-for-comfort coamings, and power-assisted sail handling all ensure safety and control. Below, carefully engineered composite structures and extensive noise-damping measures create a calm, near-silent motion under way.

Every element is conceived for long-range comfort and bluewater reliability, from the hydraulic transom platform to the neatly integrated stowage solutions throughout. The result is a contemporary cruiser that brings Contest’s hallmark craftsmanship and Lloyd’s Register-certified build quality to a size as manageable for a couple as it is welcoming for family and friends.

Contest 50CS

A rich past, a promising future

So, the Autumn 2025 Show Season sees Contest Yachts confidently presenting its latest models on the world stage, bringing together a fleet that bridges heritage with forward-looking design. The 63CS demonstrates the yard’s mastery of superyacht finish in a manageable length. The 49CS introduces a fresh family-friendly platform at the heart of the range. The 55CS continues to embody award-winning performance and practicality. And the 50CS, with its US premiere, signals Contest’s increasing presence in North America.

As Yachting World’s Toby Hodges observed when testing the 63CS: “Contest Yachts is a yard with a rich past and a promising future.” This autumn that future is firmly on display with a show line-up that promises to inspire sailors on both sides of the Atlantic.

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Performance voyaging in a responsive, elegant craft is the dream for most sailors, a dream that Kinetic Catamarans was set up specifically to realise by offering top-quality fast-cruising catamarans with clean lines for those with discerning tastes. Its new all-carbon K6 range aims to push the boundaries of performance cruising in luxury.

The US-based brand builds high-end bespoke multihulls in small series from its own yard in Knysna, South Africa, a facility which has recently undergone a major expansion. Kinetic’s popularity is already proven in its existing KC62 and KC54 models; now it’s shifting gears with the announcement of a new K6 range of maxi-cats, which comprises a 63 and its sistership 67.

The Kinetic K6 is a new reference for true performance cruising

Where the 63 is designed to suit owner-operated cruising, with the ability to fit in a 20m berth, the 67 is more suitable for sailing with a professional crew. It should be emphasised that these two new models are individually designed and built to length, rather than one being a stretched or squashed version of the other. That means properly balanced platforms, with the 67 proportionally larger all over, with the key bulkheads moving aft to allocate its additional space proportionately and retain a balanced sail plan.

K6: For sailors who demand more

What sets the K6 range apart? Firstly, there’s the visual appeal: these fresh new Simonis Voogd designs have strikingly clean aesthetics. Then comes their tangible potential afloat: these carbon fibre builds offer thrilling sailing in first-class comfort and control.

Consider the ability to cruise shorthanded while matching the wind speed. This is achieved through multiple factors, including the lightweight composite construction, coupled with a powerful but manageable sailplan. For example, Kinetic provide the option for in-boom furling of the square-top mainsail. When you combine this with a hydraulically powered mainsheet lead and traveller, which is kept out of harm’s way on the coachroof, it all adds up to easy push-button sail trimming from the helms.

The K6 platform is also one which can be optimised further still to allow for racing indulgences, for those who occasionally want to really push their craft and see what’s under the hood.

Features born out of experience

Signature Kinetic features are continued in the K6 range, including lifting centreboards to benefit upwind performance, and spacious forward cockpits, which link to an interior helm station. This latter feature allows you to steer from a completely protected position, in close contact with the mast base winches, while being able to check the mainsail shape through the large moonroof stylishly blended into the coachroof’s solar field. For those sailors who really enjoy the hands-on sporty sensation, the K6 also has exterior wheels on the raised side decks.

A hydraulically powered mainsheet lead and traveller is kept out of harm’s way on the coachroof

While daggerboards are an option, Kinetic prefer centreboards as they maintain the clean deck lines and provide a safety fuse in the case of grounding. Once again, these are controlled by push-button, via powered line drivers, and are contained below the floorboards in the hulls.

When at rest, the K6 offers a formidable leisure platform. The new forward cockpit design again creates real appeal, with its removable awning and sunpads designed into the deck, while the aft cockpit is completely free of lines and sail handling systems. Imagine the horizon views from here as you fold the transom down to create a bathing platform terrace on the sea.

A real highlight of the new K6 designs lies in the flexible accommodation spaces, particularly in the owner’s suite, which can take over a whole hull as private space and offer a full office section too. These suites also have their own access out to the aft decks, for that instant morning swim.

Look and feel

September 2025 is the first time Kinetic Catamarans is exhibiting at a boat show in Europe. Be sure to pay them a visit at the Cannes Yachting Festival, from 9-14 September, on Sail booth 024, where you will be able to see their KC54 in person and learn more about this transformational new K6 range.

The post Kinetic Catamarans unveils stunning new K6 range appeared first on Yachting World.

Balance’s latest model, the Balance 580, offers owners a step change in performance, space and ergonomic living. And it’s already an impressively well-proven design, with the first two boats that have been launched having already covered more than 12,000 miles of ocean sailing between them.

Windigo, the first of this new model to be launched, for example, left South Africa bound for the Chesapeake Bay in April this year. During the voyage she recorded boat speeds over 17 knots in only 15 knots of true wind.

In October, visitors to the Annapolis boat show will be able to talk with key Balance personnel and view this boat, which still looks like new after such a journey, underscoring the quality of the build process and fit out.

The second Balance 580 to leave the yard, Swann, enjoyed a successful 36- day and – 7,350- mile delivery to the south of France, via St Helena, Mindelo (Cape Verde) and Tangiers. She will be exhibited at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September. This a perfect opportunity for serious buyers to take a hard look at a high-specification catamaran designed specifically for long-distance sailing after it has already covered a significant mileage.

The Balance 580 is a big, powerful catamaran that’s perfectly suited to three different types of owners. It’s an obvious choice for anyone seeking high-performance sailing – that includes of course, sailors from a racing background who are seeking maximum performance on the water and adventures cruising and exploring the world in a truly civilised environment.

In addition, this model is perfect for sociable couples who want to be able to accommodate and entertain large numbers of guests yet also be able to sail their yacht two-handed. This aspect also makes it perfect for family sailing, and there’s ample space on board for several generations.

Key features include a high-performance yet easily handled sail plan with three electric furling headsails, one of which is self-tacking. This enables push-button control of the sail plan; while ensuring there’s always a sail that’s an optimal size and shape for any given wind angle and wind speed. Equally, the mainsail is designed for easy slab reefing that can be effortlessly carried out by a single watch keeper.

A lightweight carbon-reinforced epoxy build and long, narrow hulls combine to create a catamaran that’s faster than its peers yet remains extremely comfortable under way.

Inside, the real-wood veneers over foam-cored furniture, combined with Italian contemporary interior styling and a seamless saloon-to-cockpit transition, create a uniquely elegant and practical living space.

Layouts range from three- to- five cabins and can therefore cater for a wide range of needs. The owner’s version devotes an entire hull to a king-size suite with dressing area and generous bathroom, while the opposite hull accommodates guests in comfort. There’s also a full-height workshop and storage area accessed via a dedicated deck hatch.

An optional hybrid propulsion system, developed with Integrel Solutions of Hayle, UK, includes powerful electric drives, twin diesel engines, and a 4.4kW solar array that, along with hydrogeneration, can handle most energy demands offshore. Massive battery capacity supports silent running and drastically cuts down the need for refueling stops.

Equally, the pivoting VersaHelm® gives the choice of full protection or excellent visibility when helming, while the A-frame mainsheet system gives safe and precise control of sail shape, while using robust components that are easily replaced anywhere in the world.

“The 580 is a true evolution of our yacht designs,” explains Balance Catamaran’s Director of South African Operations Dean Paarman. “It takes everything we have learned from the 526 over the years and crafts those learnings with a host of innovations to create a brand- new catamaran model that holds true to the Balance ethos and expands upon it dramatically.

“We are proud to have come this far in just over a decade of building our high-performance catamarans,” he adds, “producing boats of this high quality that match exactly what our brand name stands for: the balance between living comfortably and sailing very fast.”

The post Balance 580: Art and Fast Cruising Perfected appeared first on Yachting World.

Imagine sailing gin-clear waters, waking up to panoramic ocean views, and having the freedom to explore some of the most stunning sailing destinations around the world. Whether you’re drawn to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean or the varied landscapes of the Mediterranean, owning your own catamaran opens up the cruising lifestyle – sailing at your own pace, on your own itinerary…

With Dream Yacht stepping into the world of catamaran ownership doesn’t require years of offshore experience. Dream Yacht specialize in helping you find the right boat that fits your sailing aspirations — and selecting the ideal cruising grounds to match your level of expertise. Whether you’re planning relaxed coastal sails or island-hopping in exotic locations, Dream Yacht helps make these dreams a reality.

Why size and simplicity matter

For first-time catamaran owners, choosing a boat that’s manageable, user-friendly, and comfortable is essential. The right catamaran should inspire confidence and let you focus on the thrill of sailing rather than getting bogged down in complex systems.

We’ve curated our top picks for first-time catamaran owners — each offering the perfect balance of comfort, performance, and ease. Not only do each of these multihulls provide an exciting sailing experience, but they’re also the ideal choice to start your journey exploring some of the world’s most awe-inspiring cruising destinations.

Top picks for first-time catamaran buyers

Here are four models that Dream Yacht recommend as excellent choices for new catamaran owners:

• Excess 11
• Bali Catsmart
• Fountaine Pajot 41
• Lagoon 42

Here, we’ll explore why each of these models is perfect for taking your sailing to the next level as a first-time owner

Excess 11: Adventure awaits

The Excess 11 is designed for hands-on sailors who want a sporty, exhilarating experience. It’s a 37-foot catamaran that delivers exceptional sailing performance with a responsive helm and ample sail area for memorable, fast passagemaking.

Why it’s ideal for new owners:

The Excess 11 is the perfect introduction to catamaran ownership, with a modern design that offers up to four cabins, a sleek saloon, and an expansive cockpit for lounging. Equally suited to island hopping in the Mediterranean Balearics or the Caribbean’s Windward Islands, the Excess 11 is ideal for first-time buyers ready to embrace the sailing lifestyle.

Bali Catsmart: Compact comfort

The Bali Catsmart packs big potential into its 38-foot frame. This sailing catamaran is designed for ease and manoeuvrability, with a clever layout and a competitive price point — perfect for first-time owners.

Why it’s ideal for new owners:

Compact but spacious, the Bali Catsmart has everything you need for short or long getaways. Whether you’re docking in the vibrant harbors of Antigua or St. Barts, or exploring tranquil Greek Islands, its agile design and smart space usage make it easy to live aboard – and perfect for both experienced cruisers and those new to catamaran ownership.

Fountaine Pajot 41: Effortless elegance

The new Fountaine Pajot 41 is a sleek 12-meter cruising catamaran that blends performance with exceptional comfort. With its modern design and high-end finish, it’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle on the water, whether exploring the tropical idylls of the Indian Ocean or enjoying a sun-drenched Mediterranean summer.

Why it’s ideal for new owners:

The Fountaine Pajot 41 offers four en-suite cabins, a spacious forward lounge, and a streamlined U-shaped galley, creating a harmonious flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. With ample space making it ideal for family sailing, cruising with friends, or even chartering, this boat is designed to take you to the world’s most desirable locations, like the pristine beaches of the Seychelles or the perfect trade-wind sailing conditions of the Caribbean.

Lagoon 42: Icon of modern sailing

The Lagoon 42 is one of the most popular catamarans worldwide, and for good reason. Known for its stylish proportions, ease of handling, and remarkable comfort, the Lagoon 42 is the perfect choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and adventure.

Why it’s ideal for new owners:

With four spacious en-suite cabins, a spacious saloon, and ample sunbathing areas, the Lagoon 42 blends sociable spaces with privacy. Its elevated helm position makes it a joy to sail, while generous foredeck and cockpit space allow you to enjoy the indoor-outdoor lifestyle.

Why smaller often means smarter

While boat sizes have grown over the years, marina space has remained at a premium. A more compact catamaran allows you to enjoy greater maneuverability in tight harbors, easier control in close quarters, and greater accessibility to the hidden gems of secluded anchorages and perfect snorkelling spots — whether you’re in the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, or the idyllic islands of the Indian Ocean.
Confidence under sail

With smaller, more manageable sail plans, reefing and sail handling become effortless. The Excess 11, Fountaine Pajot 41, Lagoon 42, and Bali Catsmart are all equipped with systems that make sailing easy, even when conditions change quickly. In all weathers, you’ll feel confident and in control.

Built for comfort and adventure

Each of these catamarans is equipped with everything you need for an unforgettable sailing experience. Large water and fuel tanks, air conditioning, generators, and watermakers ensure comfort even in the most remote locations. Whether you’re cruising in popular sailing areas or further off the beaten track, you’ll have everything you need to live in comfort and enjoy your idyllic surroundings

Layouts that fit your lifestyle

• Excess 11: Spacious cockpit, L-shaped galley, four cabins, perfect for active sailing with comfort.
• Bali Catsmart: Practical layout with four cabins, a forward-facing galley, and twin aft helms for easy handling.
• Fountaine Pajot 41: A U-shaped galley, private cabins, and a forward lounge make it ideal for social sailing.
• Lagoon 42: Iconic sunbathing areas, expansive saloon, and four en-suite cabins for the ultimate home from home.
• Choose your dream destination

The world is your oyster, and with Dream Yacht, you have access to some of the most breathtaking sailing destinations around the globe. From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean’s Virgin Islands to the awe-inspiring Greek Isles, Dream Yacht offers you the chance to experience the sailing lifestyle to its fullest. These destinations aren’t just places on a map — they’re your playground, your retreat, your home on the water.
Ready to make it yours?

If you’re ready to begin your catamaran journey, Dream Yacht is here to help. With flexible ownership programs, expert guidance, and a wide range of top-tier destinations Dream Yacht helps you make your ownership dreams come true.

Join Dream Yacht’s next live webinar to learn more about catamaran ownership.

The post Considering your first catamaran? Start here appeared first on Yachting World.

While foul weather gear has made remarkable progress becoming more compact, comfortable and lighter, Henri-Lloyd’s new Dynamic range is a game-changer in terms of comfort, protection and ease of movement.

The collection uses a revolutionary new lightweight fabric, developed exclusively by Henri-Lloyd. Providing excellent protection without compromising performance or breathability, it comes without the high price tag usually associated with professional-grade technical foul weather gear.

Since breathable fabrics were first developed in the mid 1990s to cope with the rigours of sailing and salt water, most innovations have been driven by material development. Rarely does any manufacturer go to the extreme lengths to search for the perfect material that Henri-Lloyd did for its Dynamic range.

First came a thorough analysis of fabrics used in other outdoor sports. This revealed that sailing was lagging behind in the use of stretch fabrics, which are more comfortable, and can be tailored to a closer, more streamlined fit without compromising freedom of movement.

But as sailing operates in a far more unforgiving environment than any other sport, including mountaineering, fabrics used for other activities were unsuitable.

Henri-Lloyd’s new Dynamic range is designed to work in all conditions

Thorough test

Henri-Lloyd set out on a global quest to discover the best possible material, testing over 100 fabrics for the optimal balance of waterproofing, flexibility/stretch, breathability and durability.

The search led to an industry-leading Japanese mill offering an advanced three-layer product with superior stretch and very high levels of wind, waterproofing and class-leading breathability.

Henri-Lloyd worked with the Japanese technical team to refine and perfect the Dri-Pro material for the most demanding marine conditions. Four rounds of prototyping followed, with feedback from top sailors ranging from TP52s crews to double-handed offshore racers.

Dynamic Lite Shell Jacket £225

This considerable investment into the pursuit of perfection endorses Henri-Lloyd’s commitment to retain its position at the forefront of marine technical clothing innovation, a vision first set out when Henri-Lloyd was founded in 1963, and which now benefits from strategic leadership and guidance from CEO Knut Frostad, a Volvo Ocean Race winner and towering figure in the sailing industry.

Dynamic is an amazingly lightweight fabric with top-notch performance across five key metrics: waterproofing (20,000mm), breathability (20,000g/m²/24hr), stretch, durability and sustainability. The range focuses on five key outer shell products – Jacket, Light Shell Jacket, Smock, Dry Top and Salopettes. Dynamic shorts and other complementary accessories, are all available in men’s, women’s and unisex sizes from XS to 3XL.

Dynamic Deck Shorts £135

Attention to detail

Frostad’s experience and insight is evident in the level of attention to detail in the range.

To create stretch, Henri-Lloyd’s designers rotated the upper back panel on the jackets by 90 degrees, creating four-way stretch across the bias and between the shoulders, where extra flexibility is most beneficial.

Rubberised logo grip points on the cuff tabs makes them easy to use with wet hands, while mesh-lined pockets maintain breathability in an area usually compromised by additional layers of fabric, and outward bevelled pockets give easy access without adding bulk.

Dynamic Dry Top £395

Smart and practical details include a 95kg load-bearing hanging loop; you can grab hold of a jacket hanging up below decks for support if the boat lurches without tearing the jacket. The Salopettes use stretch Cordura for reinforcement while integrated slimline kneepads provide a useful level of impact protection, without adding weight or bulk. A diamond-shaped gusset improves durability and comfort, which makes manufacturing more complex, but demonstrates how performance is prioritised over ease of production.

Unlike Henri-Lloyd’s offshore and ocean ranges, the women’s salopettes don’t have a dropseat. The rationale is that races in most competitive regattas last for less than an hour, with regular breaks between races, so the additional weight and complexity of a drop seat offers little benefit.

Dynamic Salopettes £395

Dynamic male and female tees complement the outer shells. Made from UPF50 fabric with full raglan sleeve to reduce chafe and allow easy movement, the underarm and side panels feature a fine mesh type fabric to maximise airflow. The Dynamic range is designed primarily for high octane day racing, but its features also appeal to cruisers and offshore sailors – everyone from small keelboats to Cape 31s, TP52s and superyachts. The range choice means the owner/helm might opt for Dynamic Lite Shell jackets, with trimmers wearing the Dynamic Jacket and foredeck choosing the Smock or full Dry Top.

Collaboration

Colourways available in male and female sizes enable entire crews to wear coordinating gear which can be easily branded with the team or boat’s name. The kit’s ultra-light weight and compact packability means a complete wardrobe fits into just one small dry bag – a feature much appreciated by crews and skippers alike.

The story behind Dynamic is of collaboration: between textile engineers in Japan, Henri-Lloyd’s designers in the UK and Europe, and elite sailors whose feedback informed the shape of the final products.

Dynamic Smock £375

Sustainability was a key feature in the development of the Dynamic range. The new Dri-Pro fabric is completely free of PFC and PFAS waterproofing chemicals known to be harmful to health and the environment.

The pioneering approach and huge development effort that created Dri Pro fabric and the Dynamic range hasn’t gone unnoticed. At the prestigious DAME Design Awards in Amsterdam, Dynamic received a Special Mention for its ‘desirability, usability and obvious step forward in sustainability’.

This new range raises the bar and sets new expectations in terms of the cutting-edge fabric technology and refined product design that Henri-Lloyd has combined to give unrivalled freedom of movement, allowing users to move without limits.

The post Move Without Limits appeared first on Yachting World.

One way to achieve this dream sailing lifestyle is to become a charter yacht owner. If you have experienced a sailing charter holiday, you already understand the exhilarating feeling of freedom and adventure each time you slip the lines and set a course for an exciting new destination

As a Dream Yacht owner, you can treat family and friends to up to 12 charter weeks each year in a choice of 35 world-class cruising grounds. It’s the most cost-effective way to continue chartering year after year, while discovering the joys of yacht ownership and the sailing lifestyle as well as maximizing your opportunities to cruise in many of the world’s most desirable destinations.

With the right guidance and planning, it’s also easier and more attainable than you might imagine.

Sunset aboard a Dream Yacht Fountaine Pajot catamaran. Photo: Bertrand Duquenne courtesy of Dream Yacht
Caption

Benefits of Owning a Charter Yacht

Owning a charter yacht can provide you with a unique opportunity to combine your love of sailing with a potential source of income. By buying a yacht and chartering it to others through the Dream Yacht fleet, you can earn charter income to offset the costs of ownership.

With Dream Yacht’s yacht management programs you can become a yacht owner without the expense and stress of a traditional yacht purchase. When you buy a yacht and place it in the Dream Yacht fleet, all of the maintenance, insurance and dockage are managed for you. And revenue from the charter income helps to offset a significant portion of the yacht’s loan payments.

At the helm of a Dream Yacht in Antigua. Photo: Bertrand Duquenne courtesy of Dream Yacht

Dream Yacht seamlessly manages all of the marketing, bookings, finances and logistics for your charter yacht. Owners have access to the exclusive booking system for reserving charter weeks on their own yacht, or on similar yachts in other destinations around the world.

With Dream Yacht you can also rest assured that your investment is safe. As the world’s leading authority when it comes to yacht ownership, we’re solidly backed with ownership that includes Beneteau Group, one of the world’s largest boat builders.

Dream Yacht charter in a pristine French Polynesian lagoon. Photo: Bertrand Duquenne courtesy of Dream Yacht

Our Dream Yacht Ownership Programs

Dream Yacht offers three yacht ownership programs, giving differing options to meet the needs of potential owners, whether you prefer the consistent monthly income and peace of mind that comes with our Dream Guarantee program, a reduced buy-in cost with our Dream Partnership program, or the maximum returns on investment and potential tax benefits of our Dream Performance program.

With our popular Dream Guarantee program, you’ll receive a monthly income from charter rentals, and enjoy up to 12 weeks of sailing each year – you pay nothing for maintenance, insurance, and dockage! Invite your family and friends to join you on your sailing trips and feel the pride of ownership.

Your holidays become shared experiences and memories that last a lifetime. In fact, some owners say that introducing others to the world of sailing yacht charters is one of the more rewarding aspects of owning a yacht.
More yacht models. More destinations. More Choice.

Dream Yacht guest enjoying the seascape in Croatia. Photo: Voile Evasion courtesy of Dream Yacht

Intrigued? If you love to sail, join our over 600 Dream Yacht owners around the world and discover why many owners choose to renew their charter management with us at the end of their program.

With Dream Yacht, you have can discover the benefit of more choice with over 60 yacht models from seven of the most well-known and respected yacht brands: including Lagoon, Bali, Fountaine Pajot, Excess, Beneteau, Jeanneau, and Dufour.

Our team of experienced Yacht Sales Consultants can help you find the yacht and charter management program to best fit your needs, and guide you from start to finish through the process of becoming a Dream Yacht Owner.

Get in touch by contacting contact@dreamyachtsales.com or visiting DreamYachtSales.com/gb

The post Achieving Your Dream Sailing Lifestyle appeared first on Yachting World.

Technology in floating docks has moved on greatly from traditional wooden rafts, with the best floating docks on the market today offering stable, safe and stylish berthing, preventing damage to your boat, and ensuring safe access when stepping onboard or back onto land.

There is now a wealth of choice of floating docks available. Here are some factors to keep in mind as you consider your options.

Why Floating Docks Matter for Yacht Owners

Owning a yacht is one of the more exciting luxuries life can offer. While a floating dock may not initially seem quite as glamorous, the right set-up can improve the experience of yacht ownership for the following reasons:

• Accessibility: a good floating dock can make boarding and disembarking easier and safer, protecting you from strong currents.
• Investment security: Floating dock systems offer mobility, moving with the boat over waves and in tide, and are made of materials which will not damage or chafe the hull or mooring lines
• Enhanced lifestyle: As well as housing your boat, a floating dock space can provide an appealing waterfront extension and is the perfect platform for entertainment and relaxation.

Navigable waterfront properties can increase home values by up to $100,000 in some locations, such as St. Petersburg, Florida and Buffalo, New York. A boat dock can increase its value even further.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Floating Dock

The following five factors are key features you shouldn’t overlook in your search:

• Stability: The best floating docks are those with the most durable construction methods and materials – typically wood, aluminum and composites — ensuring resilience against waves and the capacity to withstand heavy load-bearing conditions.
• Safety: Look for non-slip materials, safety railings, lighting, and possibly a gate or fence to create a barrier for children and pets.
• Aesthetics: Consider matching the dock’s materials to the style of your yacht or surroundings, improving visual appeal and property value.
• Long life span: Ensure it comes with adequate protection for longevity, such as metal components with anti-rust coatings and platforms that are resistant to saltwater, ultraviolet (UV) exposure and algae growth.
• Environmental impact: Look for docks constructed from sustainable or recyclable materials, with safe treatments and designs that inhibit ecological damage.

Composite materials, in particular, often have lightweight and pliable components, making them easier to manufacture for modularity. They also have excellent strength and friction-resistant properties and are corrosion- and rot-resistant, unlike aluminum and wood.

Top Floating Dock Options for Yachts

Image provided by EZ Dock.

1. High-End Modular Floating Docks

Modular floating dock systems come with interlocking parts for simple assembly and rearranging.

EZ Dock – EZ Dock is among the most recognized brands for floating dock systems, and its modular products are top-of-the-line. The docks come prebuilt for you to configure as necessary, with tight air drums to support the platform.

The brand has a versatile selection of modular solutions you can attach using connection couplers. These are made from recycled rubber with composite nuts and bolts to avoid rust and corrosion.

Tommy Docks – The Flexx Floating Docks Package by Tommy Docks has numerous modular platforms in various shapes — from rectangular and square to T-shape and P-shape — so you can easily design your ideal customization. Most individual platforms range in size from 8 feet to 24 feet to accommodate small or large yachts.

Connect-a-Dock – Connect-a-Dock’s high-profile 2000 Series is ideal for larger boats, measuring 17 inches high from the water’s surface to the top of the dock. They create a stable, skid-resistant deck, with the flexibility to choose from at least six configurations. This brand also offers accessories to create further durability, including 300 pounds of extra flotation.

Image provided by EZ Dock.

2. Custom-Built Floating Docks

In some situations there may not be a premanufactured floating dock to suit. These brands offer custom builds to create your ideal system.

Patriot Docks – Patriot Docks allows you to construct a floating dock using 4-foot by 8-foot frames and side stability floats of your choosing. Decking options include cedar, poly gray or tan, and aluminum brown or gray. Connecting and installing the platforms is simple, using 4-inch bolts (sold separately).

AccuDock – AccuDock can custom build any size or shape of aluminum-framed floating dock you need for your yacht. It also offers various decking possibilities, including different colored polyvinyl chloride, treated wood and more. All docks come with marine-grade framing and ADA-compliant options. The AccuDock design and engineering team works with the yacht owner to bring their vision to life.

3. Portable Floating Docks

‘Beach clubs’ are becoming increasingly popular among superyacht owners and charter guests. A portable floating dock can create a fun on-the-water platform to relax on, or launch a waverunner or powered watercraft from, when at anchor.

Inflatable Sport Boats – Inflatable Sport Boats offer a floating dock that can attach to a yacht, creating extra space for lounging, sunbathing and socializing. These platforms are lightweight, UV-resistant, puncture-resistant, slip-resistant and can hold up to 1,000 pounds.

Mission Outdoor – Mission Outdoor’s REEF inflatable floating docks are durable and portable, and include wide water loungers, floating splash pools with interior mesh, and square or rectangular mats you can secure together and to your boat.

Image provided by EZ Dock.

4. Best Eco-Friendly Yacht Docks

EZ Dock – EZ Dock makes the list for the second time as one of the most eco-friendly dock brands. It uses recyclable polyethylene and rubber and avoids toxic treatments and foam-lined products to prevent contamination. The docks are also designed to allow adequate light penetration to promote underwater plant health.

The brand works alongside conservation groups to decrease its environmental impact. The manufacturing process follows stringent guidelines to reduce waste and energy, with a strong focus on optimizing a green supply chain.

Eco Yacht Group – Eco Yacht Group has built its brand around sustainability, offering eco-friendly dry floating dock solutions for boats up to 100 feet. The Eco Dock is made up entirely of recycled materials. In addition to the cost-effectiveness of reduced hull maintenance, the dry dock system is designed to prevent harmful antifoul and bottom paint chemicals from leaching into the water.

How to Choose the Right Floating Dock

Always consult with an expert or architect when choosing a floating dock. Consider your yacht’s requirements, including displacement, draft, windage and freeboard, and how you will likely use the dock, to determine the best design, materials and accessories.

Conduct extensive research to understand floating dock production and what protection it may need to withstand the elements. Then, seek several quotes to compare costs and features and read reviews from previous customers.

Enhance Your Yachting Lifestyle With a Floating Dock

The best floating docks are a crucial investment in your yachting experience. Ensure you fully understand what options are available to you, what each brand delivers and whether particular floating dock systems meet your boating necessities and preferences – and give you improved access to your favourite place: on the water.

The post What Are the Best Floating Docks? How to choose for stability, safety and style appeared first on Yachting World.

To compete in the Vendée Globe requires each skipper to come with their very best game; to win it takes almost superhuman concentration, enormous skill and a hefty dose of luck. It goes without saying that the clothing chosen by each competitor must exceed the very highest standards.

Little surprise, then, that Musto is the brand that supports so many Vendée Globe campaigns. No fewer than 11 of the starting line-up for the historic 2024/25 edition are Musto ambassadors, who have curated a selection of clothing to see them through the extremes of the gruelling 24,500-mile race. They include titans of the ocean racing scene, such as Jérémie Beyou, Samantha Davies and Charlie Dalin, as well as rising stars like Benjamin Dutreux and Violette Dorange, the youngest competitor in the race.

“The Vendée Globe is one of the toughest sailing races on the planet,” said French skipper Charlie Dalin and one of the race favourites. “When you are preparing for this race with the aim of winning, you want the very best in every domain – Musto fulfils our specification perfectly.”

These are not just sailors who wear the gear; they exemplify Musto’s brand values. Dedication to success, dogged perseverance, strength of will and moments of genius are what have brought them to the start line. They will need all of it and more before they cross the finish, taking on the storm-tossed Southern Ocean and the volatile Tropics as they go.

Top of the kit list for Musto’s ambassadors is the HPX Gore-Tex Pro Ocean line of outerwear, which comes as a jacket, smock and trousers. It offers the very highest level of waterproofing and breathability, with a wealth of features from knee pads to a high collar and reinforced lower back. Every element of the design has been developed and tested with professional offshore sailors.

Charlie Dalin one of the race favourites. Photo: Martin Viezzer / Disobey / Macif

“When I need to go on deck, I have to be able to put on my gear as fast as possible,” adds Dalin. “This is why for this edition of the Vendée Globe, I’m taking the HPX Gore-Tex Pro Ocean jacket as it’s very easy to put on, but also has the ability to keep me dry when going on deck in rough conditions.”

Newer IMOCA boats sport giant foils and are designed with enclosed cockpits, which reduce the need for extreme waterproofing. But the motion of these flying boats is so vigorous that impact protection becomes the priority. To that end, Musto partnered with Vendée Globe record holder Armel Le Cléac’h to develop its MPX Impact range. Astonishing performance comes courtesy of a unique anti- ballistic gel encapsulated inside pads at key points in the garments.

“Developing MPX Impact with Musto has enabled me to try and test various solutions in real ocean conditions; and we’ve worked together to design, what I believe to be, the ultimate offshore impact kit,” Le Cléac’h says. “It’s the first of its kind.”

Heat also stalks pro sailors, whether it’s at the Olympic Games or hunting for wind in the Horse Latitudes. Musto hasn’t neglected this extreme, either. “In warmer areas, I always wear a pair of LPX shorts whether it’s daytime or nighttime,” says Dalin. There’s also the range of lightweight Sunblock gear that runs from tees to long johns.

Conditions at sea are never stable for long, so flexibility is the key. It’s not just about extreme waterproofing and breathability. That’s why HPX is a three-tier system, giving competitors the tools to tog up as they need. The base layer is in fine merino wool, which wicks away sweat, regulates body temperature and suppresses odour for weeks on end. Then the Gore-Tex Windstopper Primaloft Middle Layer Jacket or Salopette adds a major boost of warmth when necessary. Boots, gloves and socks round out the offshore kit list.

Sam Davies is expected to be competing with the front runners in this year’s edition. Photo: Jean-Louis Carli / Initiatives Coeur

If Musto is the choice of so many of the world’s top sailors, it is perhaps due in part to the mindset of founder Keith Musto. He brought home silver in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and decided that sailors should not have to sacrifice performance because of being cold and wet. As a competitor at the highest level, he understood the incremental gains that better clothing could deliver.

As a result, Musto was the first sailing brand to partner with Gore-Tex back in 1994. It remains a close collaboration to this day, with Musto still the first in the sector to develop new clothing with Gore’s latest technology.

Combined with the lessons learnt at sea, the world’s best fabric technologies empower Musto’s performance on land. That’s why the brand continues to deliver kit that can handle extreme adventures and propel winners to new heights. And it’s why so many of the world’s top sailors still wear Musto.

“Musto definitely helps me to feel confident with my clothing before we take on this challenge,” says Justine Mettraux

“I’ve been wearing Musto now for years and it’s good to wear a brand you know well, that you trust will keep you dry and comfortable,” says Justine Mettraux of Teamwork – Team SNEF. “The experience with Musto definitely helps me to feel confident with my clothing before we take on this challenge!”

The post World’s top sailors choose Musto to tackle the toughest race on water appeared first on Yachting World.

Wally’s sailing soul shines bright in its 30th year.

Some 30 years ago, a visionary sailor looked around the market for a boat and decided that there must be a better way to complete a circumnavigation with his family. Driven by his own passion and experience at sea, he set to designing and building his very own boat: a ketch called Wallygator. That sailor was Luca Bassani, and the boat he built set him on a course that today makes Wally one of the best respected names in sailing. 

Innovation was always at the core of Wally, with a stream of bright ideas which reshaped the market for big sailing boats. We take carbon fibre yachts for granted these days, but Wally’s Nariida was the first built in full carbon. She also launched the concept of hydraulic sail trim, submarine anchors and carbon sails. A year later, Genie of the Lamp introduced the world to push-button sailing, making it possible for the first time for one person to handle an 80ft sloop.

In the 30 years since it was founded, Wally has been no less revolutionary when it comes to the shape and styling of big sailing yachts. The terrace-on-the-sea concept with a large, open aft deck for sunbathing and private glazed access from the owner’s cabin was first seen in the 1998 launch Tiketitan. Open, almost architectural furnishings in the main saloon? That’s another Bassani first.

Now in the ownership of Italy’s Ferretti Group, Wally is under the leadership of Managing Director Stefano de Vivo – still forging its own path and daily justifying its tagline of being ‘20 years ahead’. The sailing focus which launched the brand in 1994 remains undimmed by success on the power side, and this year will see the launch of a landmark project. The first of the bold new wallywind range – the wallywind110 – hit the water in June and will be revealed to the world at the Monaco Yacht Show in September.

It will mark an important milestone for Wally, asserting its mastery of a segment that runs from 100-150ft LOA. The wallywind110 is set to dazzle with its metallic blue paint, which varies subtly as the light changes. The judel/vrolijk & co hull, all-carbon build and high-end equipment promises lightweight stiffness and a thrilling turn of pace, as only Wally knows how. The boat’s 6.95m telescopic keel and towering 48m Hall Spars carbon mast are works of art in their own right.

But in typical Wally style, the wallywind110 doesn’t neglect any luxury, either. Fitted out below in high style, her social areas infuse guests with a sense of easy comfort and space. And ‘cockpit’ seems like a poor word to describe the 80 square metres of refined seating and lounging that this boat offers. Sunbeds and sofas, dining for 8 and underway perches – the whole area is completely unencumbered by sailing controls, which are concentrated aft.

There’s more lounging space on the broad, flush foredeck and the famous terrace on the sea is present – a self-contained relaxation area close to the water. Perfect for enjoying a sunset at anchor, or watching a water sports session. Carefully lit at night and easy to shade during the day, it is all about promoting Wally’s vision of open air living.

A second wallywind110 is already in build. So, as it marks its 30th anniversary, it is fair to say that Wally’s soul remains undimmed and its heart beats stronger than ever for the joy of sailing.

Happy birthday Wally!

The post Innovation, performance and sheer good looks: Wally’s 30-year sailing success story appeared first on Yachting World.

In the words of Yachting World’s test editor Toby Hodges, Contest Yachts is one of the largest and oldest family-run yards in the world, and conducts the whole build process on site – a yard with a rich past and a promising future.

This heritage is reflected in the renowned, privately-owned Dutch shipyard’s latest new model, the elegant 19-metre Contest 63CS which goes on show for the first time at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, 10-15 September 2024. And readers are invited to come on board.

Contest has been a leader in the business of luxury bluewater yachting for 65 years now, fulfilling so many owners’ dreams, constantly innovating for improved comforts, security and performance,. This newestContest 63CS once again moves the semi-custom yacht sector to another space.

Reviewers commonly apply the description ‘superyacht standards’ to the quality of engineering and outfitting at Contest. So, no surprise that the Contest 63CS again passes that test while deftly demonstrating a chief benefit of moving to this end of the yacht building scale: the ability to create something unique and personal, offering always above and beyond the norms of other brands.

Perfect plan

This time, the magic is also not just in the naval architecture and exterior styling, courtesy of judel/vrolijk & co, or the mixed media themed interior designs by superyacht stars Wetzel Brown & Partners, and the shipyard’s own craftwork aboard, but it’s also in the cabin arrangement itself. The designers and engineers here have created exceptional new interior volume to enable a plan previously possible only in longer craft, of two identical, spacious, mirrored port and starboard double guest suites forward of the saloon, each with full five-star facilities.

A key feature in this is that although the 63CS has proved popular with early owners in three cabin-form, there are also four- and five-cabin options, and impressively here the designers have retained these two lavish VIP suites and super spacious master suite aft through all options – a notable innovation.

Designed and engineered specifically to be sailed and operated by family and friends, the Contest 63CS also directly addresses an increasing concern of owners of large yachts who are tiring of needing to rely on paid professional crew. For reasons of privacy, and perhaps fiscal drain, too, a smaller yacht becomes attractive, particularly if built to these superyacht standards.

And this is not just in the aesthetics, it’s in the ship’s systems, from machinery and services to rig and sail handling, all built to a very high-level of specification. Add in the inherent stiffness in Contest’s composite structures and the many counter measures taken against noise and vibration, which Contest is well known for implementing so effectively and the result is nearsilent motion under sail or motor. A real delight below decks, restful, calm, with only the faint fizz of the passing seas.

As one owner says, “I never imagined they could make a boat as quiet on the move as this. At boat shows you can never tell. It’s only when out there, really sailing that you know about the noise. Our boat is really, really quiet.”

And that’s a big part of superyacht standards, a true differentiator – soft, silent motion creating calm, reducing tensions and tiredness. Once sampled, never forgotten.

Owner operation

Making this a smart choice and perhaps an entry point for self-operated ‘super’ yachting, Contest’s practical, methodical approach and extensive customer support ensures owners can fault-find and maintain the boat easily. The yard also has long experience in serving up easily managed, robust rigs with high-end specification throughout from winches, deck gear and lines to sails, spars, standing rigging and ground tackle. On the Contest 63CS we see powered systems with fingertip operation, all set within reach of the helm pedestals and working areas, further adding ease and confidence. As does the retractable hydraulic bow thruster, the neatest of self-furling systems for the Code 0 or Helix integrated into the bowsprit forward, and the underdeck furlers for jib or genoa and removable inner staysail.

For extra simplification, there’s also the option of self-tacking jib, while for those preferring regatta orientation there are carbon spars, square-top main and the like. And whatever the set-up, on this new 63CS everything can be handled back in the working area, tidily aft of the walk-through guest cockpit that leads forward down into the super spacious saloon and professional-standard galley.

Lifestyle sailing at its best – with onlookers already reporting this the best-looking boat in the bay. A compliment seemingly appropriate for this yacht’s elegant, modern look, set off by a sleek coachroof line with sculptural, wraparound, tinted glazed windows that offer privacy and sunlight protection. The dual cockpit design is superb too: deep, protected and very comfortable with high, contoured backs and curved corners to nestle into 24/7, whatever the weather.

And what of performance? Just look back to the designers, judel/vrolijk & co, and their extraordinary pedigree, combined with the Lloyd’s Register certified skills of the Contest shipyard, and it should come as no surprise that the all-new 63CS is absolutely optimised to sail swiftly and safely in all conditions, light and heavy, while those at the helm milk every moment, rarely needing to resort to the motor.

Come and see

All round this is a superb showing for this European Yacht of the Year 2025 candidate from a third generation, privately owned and funded shipyard. That heritage provides long-term financial stability that so many yards have erred away from with their step into unpredictable private equity. Contest owners say: safe boat, safe hands, safe investment.

Come and judge for yourself at the Cannes Yachting Festival, 10-15 September, Port Canto, berth Sail038.

The 17-metre Contest 55CS will also be on show at Cannes – already a previous winner of the Luxury European Yacht of the Year award!

At the coinciding Southampton Boat Show, 13-22 September, the 15-metre sistership Contest 49CS with its exceptionally spacious twin aft cabins for family sailing, will be on show for your viewing, berth M647.

Book your private viewing now.

Discover more about the Contest 63CS.

The post Cannes World Premiere For All-New 19-Metre Contest 63CS appeared first on Yachting World.

Some spend their whole life merely dreaming of a circumnavigation. Others seize the moment, sell up and slip the lines. But there is another way to sail the world – one that doesn’t require you to leave the business or bid farewell to family.

Become a part owner of the luxury 83ft superyacht Ikigai and you can share in a thrilling three-year voyage around the world. Experience the excitement of crossing oceans and discovering remote places and cultures.

Ikigai’s Crew has a vast experience sailing the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. The bright, modern interior has just had what amounts to a complete refit at Vitters in the Netherlands. Warm teak and deep upholstery make Ikigai a fabulous home for up to six guests across three cabins.

The boat is built in aluminium to a Judel/Vrolijk & co design which blends go- anywhere robustness with scintillating performance. Simply a delight to helm, she has a balanced sail plan and a varied wardrobe that allows sparkling pace for fast, safe ocean passages.

An exhaustive toys list includes a 13ft custom tender, two stand-up paddleboards, waterskis, kitesurf, Seabob, dive gear and fishing kit. There are even personalised Ikigai golf sets on board.

Starting in Mallorca this year, Ikigai sails to the Caribbean, then on via Panama to New Zealand and the islands of the South Pacific, including the Marquesas Islands and Bora Bora. Bucket-list destinations abound in the tropics: Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. After cruising the pearls of the Indian Ocean, the final leg to the Med is through the diving hotspots of the Red Sea and Suez.

It amounts to the voyage of a lifetime, split between four different owners, each enjoying exclusive time aboard. If you are interested in experiencing the highs of cruising the world without having to sell the business first, please get in touch.

Contact arnoud@ikigai-yacht.com or visit the website www.ikigai-yacht.com to find out more.

Ikigai key stats

• Quarter share in Ikigai €525,00
• Estimated annual costs €75,000
• Total estimated costs of ownership for 3 years €437,000 (including depreciation)
• Minimum 8 weeks exclusive use per year.
• All costs are estimations per 25% shareholder

The post Become a part-time explorer. Sail the world in comfort and at speed. Be part of something extraordinary! appeared first on Yachting World.

When Moody launched its first version of the Deck Saloon yacht in the ’90s, with the exceptionally popular Eclipse range, the concept was ground-breaking.

The Eclipse designs were the first to give cruisers the ability to sit comfortably inside the saloon, whilst retaining a panoramic view, and still have the opportunity to steer.

Since the innovative Eclipse range, Moody has spent 30 years developing and refining its Deck Saloon models, with the new DS48 being the latest iteration.

Aerial image of DS48 from above, with lighting

There are many standout features of the new DS48. Among the most impressive is the “One Level Living” concept, which doesn’t exist anywhere else in the monohull world.

The cockpit and saloon are on exactly the same level, so moving from outside to inside could not be easier. As convenient as this is while anchored up, the real benefit is evident when underway (especially when short-handed).

Once inside, whether you’ve ducked in to shelter from the weather, check the nav station, or use the galley, what really stands out is that your view of the waters ahead and surroundings is wholly unchanged, bringing a real sense of safety and security on the move.

The DS48 saloon interior, and exterior cockpit seating area looking towards the saloon

Other carefully thought-through features of the DS48 include a custom solution for stowing and launching the dinghy tender. The usual solutions to handling a dinghy on a yacht are davits – fine until you want to access the boat stern-to; or a garage space – which solves stern access but can be a handful to get the dinghy in and out of, not to mention the outboard engine.

The designers at Moody have created a great garage space together with a powered crane arm to lift the dinghy in and out. This also combines with a dinghy design which allows you to leave the engine mounted when stowed away.

The dinghy garage and crane arm

The cabin accommodation is equally impressive.

The owner’s suite is superb, with a generous island berth. But it’s almost matched by the VIP guest cabin, which is also huge and offers a spacious ensuite with a separate shower cubicle.
A third guest double with an ensuite is also available, ensuring all guests onboard feel equally indulged!

VIP cabin and en-suite

One thing that really strikes you about the interior of the DS48 is the quality of fit-out and the trim level. Bulkheads are all lined with a subtly padded material, which brings a wonderful level of opulence to the interior and complements the joinery.

Twin guest cabin

On the water, Bill Dixon’s team has done what you would expect from one of the world’s finest naval architects. The new Moody is surprisingly fast, points well, and feels incredibly reassuring underway.

If you are looking for a high-quality, beautifully finished, genuine deck saloon yacht – this has to be the one.

Moody Yachts are exclusively represented in the UK by Inspiration Marine Group.

For more information and layout options visit www.moody-yachts.co.uk

The post Bluewater Luxury – The new Moody DS48 appeared first on Yachting World.

It would take years to plan, design and build a catamaran to the standard of Stylia. This unique Sunreef 70S was delivered barely two years ago with every imaginable upgrade and feature, and broker Burgess describes the boat as “probably the best Sunreef 70 ever built”. She is now in search of a new owner, ready to set sail immediately for the adventure of a lifetime.

Sunreef is recognised for having transformed the large catamaran market with its range of solid, safe, ultra-comfortable yachts. And this one is an absolute gem. From carbon spars to lithium batteries; solar panels to a hydraulic swim platform, 22.8-metre Stylia lacks no amenity.

“Stylia is without question one of the best Sunreef 70 Sailing ever built,” says sales broker Thibault Roi at Burgess. “She was built by a very experienced owner – he built another Sunreef 70S a few years before her – who brought an extensive team of project managers and specialists to support the shipyard, in order to deliver the best possible catamaran, with a myriad of options and improvements added.”

STYLIA, credit: Burgess

Some 287sqm of living space makes Stylia a boat that puts many homes in the shade. Accommodation is arranged across three decks, including a wonderful flybridge, a huge saloon on the main deck and an entire hull dedicated to the owners’ suite. Her impressive 133 gross tonne volume is put to excellent use.

The lucky owner enjoys privileged accommodation in the port hull, where a king-size bed is oriented so that its occupants can gaze out through large hull windows at the seascape beyond. Almost unheard of in this size range, there’s a vast dressing room to keep you looking at your best, however many days you’ve been at sea. Twin bathrooms provide separate his n’ hers heads, basin and shower.

STYLIA, credit: Burgess

Guests in the starboard hull are only marginally less lavishly cared for. Each of the three cabins has a walkaround queen-size bed with its own ensuite shower room and plenty of hanging space. The aftmost cabin has its own private companionway from the saloon above. It is an ideal set-up for cruising with family or friends, supported by up to four permanent crew.

Social activities are focused on the main deck saloon, which connects seamlessly to the shaded aft deck via glass doors that slide fully away when not required. A spacious owner’s galley fills the saloon’s starboard side, running on green electricity generated by the boat’s solar panels. To port, there’s a sophisticated sofa and a low coffee table, with a galley island that doubles as a breakfast bar.

Multiple outdoor spaces vie for your attention, but the ace is the beautiful flybridge. It offers open-air dining, lounging and even a three-seat bar with a barbecue. There’s space for gym equipment up here and, of course, the gloriously picturesque helming position.

STYLIA, credit: Burgess

Offering a different perspective, the inviting forward cockpit has direct access to the saloon through a sea-tight door. Meanwhile, the aft deck features combined lounging and dining for up to eight people with an ingenious high-low table. This is supported by a wet bar that would work as well for sundowners at anchor as it would for preparing the day’s catch during a bluewater crossing.

Further aft still, the decking gives way to a teak-laid hydraulic platform. This is a hugely capable piece of equipment with a multifunctional role. In the raised position, it provides a seamless continuation of the aft deck. Then, at the touch of a button, it lowers to become a discrete beach club or a dock for water sports equipment. Use it to launch / recover a tender or jetski with an impressive lifting capacity of up to 1,200kg.

Expect exciting performance under sail, thanks to those carbon fibre spars and a sail wardrobe that includes a main and genoa in performance cruising Hydranet cloth. Stylia’s bowsprit is rigged for an asymmetric or reaching Code sail, and there is an inner forestay to round out a flexible sail plan. All sail controls come back to winches on the flybridge.

STYLIA, credit: Burgess

Sustained sailing speeds over 10 knots are well within reach of this yacht – all in extreme comfort and with the stability that only comes from a multihull. Should the wind fail, fast passage times are still possible thanks to the twin 225hp John Deere engines. Under power, the boat cruises at 9 knots with a top speed of 11 knots.

Uniquely for a yacht of this size, Stylia has been built to RINA commercial class, although she has only ever been used privately. This gives the yacht a compelling business case to run alongside her go-anywhere explorer credentials. “Stylia has been very lightly used, remains under warranty until July 2024, private only since her launch – yet built charter compliant,” says Roi at Burgess. “She is better than new, in turnkey condition, seriously for sale and ready for her next owner ahead of this season.”

For full details about the yacht, click here.

To find out more about becoming her new owner, contact Burgess.

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What if you could have it all? The speed of an ocean racing multihull, combined with the comfort and space of a luxury motoryacht, all in a bluewater vessel which can be managed shorthanded. For John Mountain such a yacht didn’t exist… so he decided to create it for himself, and consequently for others to enjoy without needing to go down a full custom route.

Partnering with world leading firms, including Berret-Racoupeau design, North Sails, Rigging Projects and Lorima masts, helped bring Mountain’s ideas to life. Special attention was paid to the latest state-of-the-art technology and inbuilt safety features to facilitate performance sailing with just two people.

Tuned to perfection

With its distinctive wave-piercing bows, the Air Yacht 80 can match the true wind from 8 knots and reach speeds over 25 knots. Weighing in at just 29.5 tonnes puts it in a class of its own for a catamaran of this size. To achieve this, carbon fibre is used for the full build, including hulls, rig and rigging, while titanium deck fittings help minimise weight and maintenance.

Lifting rudders and curved daggerboards give the yacht another edge: upwind performance paired with shoal draught capability (think fast fetching in the shallows of the Bahamas). In terms of power and propulsion, there is a hybrid system of diesel and electric engines, while the 67kW battery bank is topped up by 10kW hydro-regeneration under sail plus a 4kW solar array.

A raft of clever features help make such a large yacht manageable. Hydraulic furlers are built into the longeron, retractable capstans make for easy mooring, while a hand-held remote control allows for easy docking and anchoring from anywhere onboard. Safety features are equally prioritised, and include the renowned UpsideUp anti-capsize system, load cells in the rigging and cutting-edge anchor guardian technology.

Luxury living

The live-aboard experience is uncompromisingly luxurious, from the drop-down cinema screens on the flybridge and in the saloon to the ergonomics of the custom-designed furnishings throughout the yacht’s interior. Finishes are superb, with wengé, walnut and teak wood floors and furniture, as well as plush pile carpets. You’ll find a fabulous entertainment area complete with barbecue, sun loungers and drinks fridge on the covered flybridge, before descending to the main deck with its 80m2 of seamless indoor-outdoor living space.

The cabins (offering space for 8 guests plus crew) include the owner’s stateroom, with its en suite king-size bedroom and separate study/dressing room. This has a Murphy bed on the bulkhead that easily converts it into a fourth suite if needed. The chef-style galley, with its large windows providing clear sightlines of the ocean, is complete with a full suite of integrated Fisher & Paykel and Miele appliances and equipment seamlessly integrated into the design. A separate crew cabin, a 7m forepeak tool/toy room, large sail locker and customised storage areas add behind-the-scenes convenience.

Fully loaded

The Air Yacht 80 is a truly turn-key purchase: everything you need on board is included, from the finest Egyptian cotton bed linen to the Highfield tender, with a dedicated space designed for every last item. This means that all you need to do is stock up on your consumables, and set sail (at speed)!

The remarkable Air Yacht 80 is available via a limited release to a select few customers. Hull number two is currently under discussion. For enquiries and further information, visit airyacht.com.

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Visit a marina now and you’ll be greeted by the unpleasant smell of solvents. Known as VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), solvents are a major component of traditional anti-foul paints, many of which contain up to 45 per cent VOCs.

These solvents pose a problem – they’re major contributors to climate change. To help reduce global warming, regulators are moving to decrease VOC contents, to the point of elimination.

The atmosphere is not the only area at risk. Traditional anti-fouls work by releasing a toxic cocktail of biocides, designed to deter the slime, weed and shell fouling. As these anti-fouls erode, along with the biocides they release pigments and binders into the ecosystem.

Again, regulators are moving in to limit the damage. Within Europe and the UK, the choice of biocides available to paint manufacturers has reduced from over 50 to less than 10.

The speed at which biocide is released – the leach rate – is also under scrutiny, looking likely to follow California and Sweden in being limited to 9 micrograms per cm2 per day.

Recently, “Biocide Free” coatings (typically designed to work by presenting a slippery surface to which fouling struggles to adhere), have been made available to yachtsmen. But while these products do not contain biocides, they generally contain approximately 35 per cent solvent, require a solvent-based primer, need to be washed off after a few years with a 65 per cent solvent solution, break down to produce microplastics, and can leach silicone oils.

Perhaps more worryingly, many biocide-free coatings still contain PFAS Compounds* that are currently being banned in countries such as Germany, Sweden and the USA. (*PFAS Compounds, known as “forever chemicals”, are synthetic compounds that do not break down in the environment.)

While these restrictions spell bad news for traditional anti-fouls and biocide-free coatings, the better news is that a proven and legally compliant solution already exists.

Coppercoat already meets these regulations and has done so since its launch in 1991. Coppercoat combines a single biocide (an exclusively sourced copper powder made in the UK from recycled copper wire) with a modern water-based and VOC-free epoxy, so it gives off no dangerous solvents or unpleasant smells. And with a minimal leach rate of just 1.9 micrograms per cm2 per day, Coppercoat is the logical, environmentally responsible and effective choice for antifouling.

What would be the positive impact of using Coppercoat in place of traditional anti-foul paint?

For comparison purposes, let’s use a theoretical marina containing 500 leisure boats at an average size of 39ft / 12m per boat.

Such a boat would typically use 10 litres of anti-foul, for the recommended two coat application. At 45 per cent solvent, this equates to 4.5 litres of solvent dissipating to the atmosphere during application. For 500 boats, this is 2,250kg. Every year.

If all these boats switched to Coppercoat, which is solvent-free, this figure would be ZERO!

Looking at the remaining paint components such as binders, pigments and biocides and assuming a typical reduction in paint thickness of 80 per cent over the year, 7,700kg of solids would leach into the sea. Every year.

If all these boats switched to Coppercoat, with its vastly lower leach rate, this figure would be just 175kg.

But importantly, with the average lifespan of a treatment of Coppercoat being 10 years, over the course of a decade, switching to Coppercoat could reduce the marina VOC emissions from anti-foul by 22,500kg, and reduce paint-solids leaching by 77,000kg.

Coppercoat has always been the choice for sailors looking to minimise the time and costs associated with anti-fouling. It’s now also being seen as the more environmentally responsible choice.

The post Is your anti-foul choice contributing to Global warming? appeared first on Yachting World.

After decades of building highly regarded power cats for discerning customers, Aquila is extending its unique blend of design and know-how to the sailing sector

Picture a sunrise at sea. A quickening in the night sky far to the east; a hint that dawn is just below the horizon; a new day full of promise and challenge.

It is the dream of every sailor to take off and explore. But you need a platform that is capable of supporting that dream. Safe and comfortable, fun to sail, and robust enough for every adventure – Aquila catamarans are this and more.

After decades of building highly regarded power cats for discerning customers, Aquila is extending its unique blend of design and know-how to the sailing sector. The first Aquila 50 has already been launched and will debut at the Miami International Boat Show in February. With a 49’ 1” overall length and 25’ 9” beam, she boasts all of the design aesthetics of other Aquila boats. In fact, the entire sailing lineup was designed by J&J Design, the naval architects behind Aquila’s 50 Yacht, 42 Coupe, and the widely popular 32 and 36 Sport catamarans.

Over the next 18 months, the Aquila 44 and Aquila 63 will also hit the water, offering customers a compelling family of sailing cats for the first time in Aquila’s history. It is an illustration of the shipyard’s belief that there is no better brand for sailors who put the experience on the water before all else.

The Aquila 63

That’s because Aquila’s brand revolves around thoughtful design and superior manufacturing to maximise every moment on the water. Founded by sailors with a deep well of cruising experience, the brand is on a relentless quest to find what’s next, harnessing craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology to deliver better boats for experiencing “out there.” Their visionary thinking makes boating smoother, easier and more fulfilling.

This is no empty rhetoric. Aquila’s sailing catamarans offer more interior space than their peers. A spacious aft cockpit opens up to a cavernous salon with all the comfort and panoramic glass of a penthouse apartment. If you are a private owner, a spacious owner’s suite ensures maximum relaxation and retreat, with three (3) additional guest cabins for friends and family. For those looking to place the boat in a charter program, Aquila has a six (6) cabin version, each with a private entry. Best of all, once the boat completes its charter deployment, it can be converted back to an owner’s boat with no structural work required.

Master cabin in the port hull of the Aquila 50

And where many cats feature a forward trampoline between the hulls, Aquila’s three sailing models have a rigid bow. This introduces the possibility of unwinding in a comfortable, well-protected foredeck lounge featuring plenty of sunpad loungers for a relaxing view of the horizon. It’s the perfect spot for soaking up the seascape under sail.

For a loftier view of the journey, the flybridge offers some of the best seats aboard. Eat, lounge or simply enjoy a coffee as the sun comes up – all while keeping the helmsperson company. Aquila’s trademark “bridge-to-bow” stairs are integrated into both the port and starboard sides, making bow access quick and easy.

Adding to the appeal, the new Aquila sailing cats offer a choice of propulsion: diesel only, or Aquila’s Hybrid Ocean Drive which offers the benefits of electric propulsion when desired. It’s all part of Aquila’s ongoing effort to deliver sustainable boating options — a philosophy which also governs its massive shipyard, where solar panels cover 70 per cent of the factory roof and sustainable practices can be found throughout.

The impressive flybridge on the Aquila 50

Great sailing adventures begin with great boats. And with Aquila’s new sailing range, it all starts right here. See the Aquila 50 in Miami next February, or stay tuned for more details of the Aquila 44 and the flagship Aquila 63. Visit Aquilaboats.com/models/sail-catamarans to explore the full range.

“All specifications and options are subject to change by Sino Eagle Yachts at their sole discretion. Performance is purely indicative and not a contractual commitment. Performance is subject to many variances outside the control of Sino Eagle Yachts. Specifications and graphics in this brochure are non-binding and customer must enter into contractual agreement with the Dealer or Agent of Record. Actual color samples may vary slightly from digital representation.”

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Invite prospective clients and owners to virtually walkthrough ‘digital twins’ of vessels as if they were onboard.

Leading spatial data company Matterport now allows yacht designers, manufacturers, brokers and owners to share their vision for custom vessels, or to offer an immersive experience of an existing yacht remotely, by creating dimensionally accurate digital replicas of superyachts that showcase their spectacular scale and style.

Matterport 3D technology can help communicate the design, construction, and completion phases of a yacht, and provide an exceptionally detailed 3D walk through for charter and brokerage sales.

Adopting technology that has become widespread in real estate and construction, Matterport’s digital views capture the complete yacht from bow to stern and offer an engaging and realistic viewing experience that puts users onboard, no matter where in the world they are.

The digital replicas allow owners or potential buyers to experience the spaces aboard a yacht – the sweep of a horizon, the curve of a staircase, the view from the master cabin – with a whole-boat perspective that far surpasses that offered by traditional static photography, conventional models or renderings, or single point of view video tours.

Matterport’s photo-realistic, detailed digital representations capture spaces, sightlines, colours, textures, light and dimensions. They allow customers and collaborators to explore the private and communal areas of the yacht, as well as the crew quarters, engine rooms and working areas.

The dynamic ‘walkaround’ option lets users gain a complete, true spatial understanding of the yacht and how those elements interrelate to one another.

The realism offered by a Matterport digital viewing experience means customers are comfortable to commit at an earlier stage: builders and brokers report closing sales faster, owners get out on the water sooner. Decisions – whether related to purchasing, charter, refit or finishes – can be made with greater confidence, and result in fewer change orders to potentially cause delays later in the process.

Owners also value having an as-built plan of record that they can share remotely during the build or refit process, and the highly detailed representation of the yacht has an enduring value for insurance documentation or future charter.

The 3D experiences are intuitive, engaging, and multifunctional. A Highlight Reel feature allows viewers to fully comprehend any space and visualize layout and flow. The ‘dollhouse’ view offers a sense of the entire vessel, or viewers can select aerial floorplans, with views of every floor.

Meanwhile, the 3D exploration mode allows viewers to walk around the yacht, immerse themselves in it, and choose to look up, down, and around as they please, both online and in full virtual reality.

Matterport technology also offers a ‘Measurement Mode’, which allows users to accurately measure anything – deck space, cabin dimensions, doors, or furniture, and to share those measurements, for example with an interior designer.

Find out more about how Matterport 3D experiences can assist yacht sales, brokerage, or charter at matterport.com

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As is often the way, ICE was commissioned by the owner of a much larger Baltic Yacht who wanted a fast, agile boat to speed about in. But at the start of this year, her story took an interesting turn. She caught the eye of serial boat collector Jack Setton, a man who loves a sleek, original line and the promise of good pace.

“She is one of the most beautiful boats out there,” enthuses broker Max Minarek at judel/vrolijk. “It’s amazing how sleek that boat is, and how tight she races. She sails so beautifully upwind, especially, because she has such a narrow beam.”

As Minarek tells the story, Setton took the opportunity to give the boat a comprehensive refit and improvements. He is now looking to sell her due to a change of program.

Layup is in full carbon-fibre sandwich, with a hydraulically lifting keel that reduces her performance draught of 3.20m to 2.30m for entering shallow harbours or anchorages. Baltic used vacuum infusion to precisely control weight, as well as nano-epoxy for superior lamination properties.

She has been designed for maximum ease of handling, with a wide, open cockpit free of obstructions. The various improvements made by Setton make her totally useable by a single person, according to Minarek. “She’s an even better boat now than when she was built,” he says.

One of the keys has been a new pinhead mainsail which is smoother to hoist, reef and strike. Built in technora-carbon by Italy’s E-Sails, it is still a very capable sail and good to fly up to 30 knots of wind The fat-head North 3Di main and jib were built in 2020, and barely used, so remain in very good shape.

The high-performance carbon fibre mast sets a twin headsail rig with a big genoa or code sail and a self-tacking jib – both roller-furled for ease of handling. The jib and main also use Cariboni’s original Magic Trim hydraulic trimming system for iron-taught sheet control. She also got a new standing rig last year in state-of-the-art EC3 carbon rigging by Future Fibres.

The recent refit did not neglect cruising comfort, either. ICE now has a mooring capstan at the bow, new engine controls and a new Raymarine chartplotter in the cockpit. There is a bow-thruster for easy manoeuvring and a bimini on four carbon poles. “Now she is really made to be sailed alone – really simple and reliable,” says Minarek.

The teak decking was also refurbished, new backrests were installed in the cockpit and the interior upholstery was completely replaced. Minimal design and clean lines characterise the design below deck. The yacht’s interior offers a comfortable saloon, fridge and galley, plus a heads in the bow. “There’s a carbon loo in the focsle – where you can have your privacy,” says Minarek.

This is a real chance to own a fast boat with faultless design pedigree and an unmatched build quality. Her thorough refit in 2020/21 will ensure that she remains an absolute flyer for many years to come, whether you sail single-handed or with crew.

ICE specifications:

Length overall: 13.00m / 42ft 9in
Beam: 3.18m / 10ft 5in
Draft: 2.30-3.20m / 7ft 6in – 10ft 6in
Displacement: 5,764kg / 12,707lb
Engine Yanmar: 55hp
Builder: Baltic Yachts
Designer: judel/vrolijk & co
Price: €490,000 VAT paid
Contact: +49 (0) 152 345 00 585 / max@judel-vrolijk.com

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The post Iconic day-sailer ICE for sale appeared first on Yachting World.

The news of North Sails’ first-ever range of foul weather gear for performance sailing and long-distance cruising immediately created a stir in the industry. Nevertheless, given the company has successfully diversified well beyond its core business over the past decade, creating a line of technical clothing intended to set a new bench-mark for foul weather gear was a logical move.

The North Technology Group now also includes the production of carbon spars, composite rigging and next generation ultra-thin pre-preg materials for composite structures.

All are underpinned by North’s phenomenal record of innovation and success. One of many examples is that the company has made sails for every America’s Cup winner since 1987, including this year’s victor in Auckland, Emirates Team New Zealand.

At the same time North has continued to prioritise the many thousands of leisure sailors, both cruising and racing, that it has served across the world for more than 60 years.

These directly benefit from the research and development funded by the high-profile campaigns that has led to innovative products such as North’s fully recyclable and long lasting 3Di Nordac polyester sailcloth.

North’s new TightWeave face fabrics, which have a smaller weave than standard fabrics that automatically reduces water absorption and penetration

The same rigorous approach has now been applied to foul weather gear. Starting from scratch, albeit with a considerable depth of industry knowledge, has allowed unconstrained thinking that has resulted in the best possible combination of new materials and garment design.

Nigel Musto worked with North’s team of talented engineering and technology PhDs with the aim of creating the world’s best marine clothing bar none. The result is four ranges of technically advanced clothing that’s lightweight, hardwearing and offers unrivalled performance.

All are made using North’s new TightWeave face fabrics, which have a smaller weave than standard fabrics that automatically reduces water absorption and penetration. The material also includes a GORE-TEX® PRO membrane for superior durable waterproof and breathable characteristics.

An important innovation for the Offshore and Ocean specification gear, as well as the Inshore Race Trousers, is the lack of traditional heavy reinforcing patches in areas of high wear such as the seat and knee.

Instead, these are laminated within the four-layer fabric itself in a process analogous to that developed for North’s 3Di sail fabric. These feature reinforcements for reef points, batten pockets and so on as an integral part of the structure of the sail – they are not add-ons that are stitched in place in the later stage of manufacture.

This approach also offers many benefits for lighter and more flexible foul weather gear that doesn’t restrict movement.

The Ocean line encompasses North’s most breathable, waterproof and durable smock

Eliminating conventional reinforcing patches has two further benefits. It eliminates the tendency to hold water, thus avoiding the all too familiar damp bum, and there’s no associated stitching that may fail and let in water as the garment ages.

The Ocean line encompasses North’s most breathable, waterproof and durable smocks and salopettes. It has already been thoroughly tested in the harshest possible conditions by Vendée Globe and Ocean Race sailors.

Those who compete in the classic 600 mile offshore races or cruise serious distances will be well served by the offshore range. This retains waterproofness and durability, but with improved comfort, lighter weight and a more attractive price point. This line offers a choice of smocks for serious use, or an offshore jacket for maximum comfort and flexibility.

Choices widen further in the inshore line, which includes smocks, a jacket and an innovative hybrid product that combines the best attributes of both, including a full front zip and an effective neck seal.

The GP Aero Waterproof Jacket weighs just 300g

The GP Aero line prioritises performance and light weight for ultimate performance when racing inshore at the highest levels. For this range the design team looked beyond the sailing world for inspiration, incorporating lessons learned from cycling and other high intensity sports.

As a result, the GP Aero Waterproof Jacket weighs only 300 grammes, while the range also includes both waterproof and fast-dry trousers and shorts, plus silk weight fast dry shirts.

Finally, there’s a line of mid-layer products designed to work with all the outer layers. These are available in different grades, to suit cooler or warmer conditions.

Significantly they don’t have an external shell layer, as these inevitably impede breathability, which eventually results in damp inner layers after extended use.

North Sails Performance – we can’t wait for you to try it, and even better we can’t wait for you to sail in it.

Visit www.northsails.com/Performance to view the full range, or see it in the flesh at Ocean Leisure or Marine Superstore.

The post First look: North Sails’ foul weather gear appeared first on Yachting World.

Make no mistake: luxurious it may be, but the Bavaria C65 is a sailor’s boat. It’s not hard to imagine sitting at the helm with the sleek teak deck stretching ahead of you.

The wheel is light in your hand as you slice to windward, the boat heeling gently to an evening breeze. On deck, it’s just you, your partner, and maybe a couple of friends, but really you could be sailing this boat single-handed – it’s designed to be easily handled by small crews.

Whether you are looking to trade up to a larger yacht or you are a first time owner, this is a boat worthy of serious consideration. Equally, motor yacht owners will be pleasantly surprised that heading to sea under canvas doesn’t mean sacrificing space and comfort, and this is also likely to make the C65 popular with charter operators.

It’s certainly got the elegance to turn heads in harbour.

The new Bavaria C65 on show in Palma in April

Combining home-from-home comfort with genuine sailing performance is no easy task, and most boats will tend towards one or the other. Arguably, Bavaria has pulled off a genuine balance of the two with smart design and state-of-the art construction in this fast cruiser.

See a 3D tour of the yacht.

Weight has been saved in build with the use of carbon fibre reinforced bulkheads, hull and stringers, while stiffness and safety have been built in with a stainless steel keel frame. Bavaria’s own vessel management system uses the latest in connected technology to make controlling the boat and its systems a doddle, and the sail handling systems make short-handed sailing almost effortless.

Light enough for calm-weather sailing and stable enough for heavier weather, the C65 offers reliable and fast performance across the conditions. In 16 knots true breeze, you’ll be sailing to windward at over 8.5 knots, and off the wind with the 288m2 gennaker set, you’ll be up to nearly 12 knots.

Comforts of home

With speed and comfort like that, it’s the perfect boat for easy day sails in the Mediterranean with friends and family, or for taking on the more serious challenges of blue water cruising. It is clear that Bavaria’s design team are enthusiastic about proper sailing and they have made a yacht for those that share their enthusiasm for the feel of wind and water.

That’s not bad for a boat that is finished to a very high quality and provides all the comforts of home. Details like the full-sized upright fridge, biggest-in-class work top area in the galley, a TV that rises from behind a settee in the saloon, and generous double beds make this yacht at least as comfortable as home, if not more so.

Owners can customise their boat to a high degree, with numerous layout options available below deck, making each boat truly unique.

Stepping aboard, a number of features and innovations are immediately apparent: the dinghy garage inside the large fold-down bathing platform sits below a wet bar and barbecue/grill; a large cockpit seating area with two separate tables and sunbathing areas is the largest in class.

Below decks, Bavaria claims its luxurious owner’s cabin, as well as the bathroom and galley, are all largest in class. The saloon and cabins are all flooded with plenty of natural light, thanks to the rows of hatches running along both sides the coachroof, as well as generous hull windows.

This is the largest yacht Bavaria has built to date and is their new flagship. They have done an impressive job that takes the marque into the next level of luxury. It’s a strong showing in the 55ft to 75ft size range, in what is a flourishing sector for new yachts.

Those in the market for this type of boat will be pleasantly surprised by its price tag. Given the level of fit out and finish, the C65 can certainly be seen as good value. The C65 is already in stock and ready to test sail in the UK and in Spain, where Clipper Marine is the official Bavaria dealer and delivery can be made this season.

More details of the Bavaria C65 are available from Clipper Marine

The post Meet the Bavaria C65, a performance cruiser flush with home comforts (Promotional feature) appeared first on Yachting World.

Based in the Costa Smeralda, this family friendly and full facility marina has ‘hit a note’ offering a Privilege Points scheme with boat owners who use their services.

Marina Manager, Captain Vasco De Cet, said, “The message is, the more the services are used, the more points can be gained with the ultimate aim of delivering free services to frequent boat owners. It’s about offering a 21^st century customer service facility to owners of all types of craft who want to enjoy their limited time afloat in one of the most attractive cruising grounds in the world”.

Once the Portisco Privilege loyalty card has been allocated, the scheme is likened to an airline booking system, where berthing is arranged and booked online and points or credits are awarded for this and all other subsequent purchases of goods, services and facilities within the Marina.

This includes an array of restaurants, bars, boutique stores along with car, bicycle, RIB hire, travel, Marina services, discounted berthing fees at other marinas and Sailornet.

The Marina is all encompassing with 24 hour radio assistance, free wi-fi, refitting facilities, fuel, 70 ton travel lift, docking assistance, environmentally friendly cleaning processes and a slipway, with the international airport at Olbia, just twenty minutes away by car or taxi.

For further details about the scheme and the marina itself, contact info@marinadiportisco.it or visit the website www.marinadiportisco.com

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Led by the renowned developer and superyacht owner, Buddy Darby, Christophe Harbour is a luxury development nestled on the south-eastern peninsula of the untouched Leeward island of St Kitts. Located between Antigua and St Maarten, Christophe Harbour is a refreshing alternative to the hectic yachting hubs in the heart of the Eastern Caribbean’s prime charter and cruising grounds.

The centre of this 2,500-acre community is The Marina at Christophe Harbour. Secure and protected with two experienced superyacht captains at the helm, the marina currently has 24 alongside berths with ability to accommodate superyachts up to 76m in length.

Offering in-slip fuelling, close proximity to a VIP private jet terminal, expedited customs clearance and access to top suppliers, Christophe Harbour is the ultimate homeport and ideal place to start and end itineraries in the region.

For investors, Christophe Harbour has broken the mould by offering freehold ownership for marina berths; a true ownership opportunity that exists nowhere else in the Caribbean.

Surrounding the marina, the community features seven spectacular beaches, a private beach club, an award-winning beach bar, and forthcoming amenities: Park Hyatt hotel, marina village featuring a state-of-the-art customs house with crew facilities, and a Tom Fazio golf course.

A diverse selection of the Caribbean’s finest real estate is available for those wishing to call Christophe Harbour home. Quintessential Caribbean cottages, custom-designed villas and sprawling hillside estates have been masterfully woven into the community’s hills, harbours and beaches, making nature itself the most stunning amenity.

And there are plenty of ownership benefits at Christophe Harbour—most notably, eligibility for the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment program. Established in 1984, the program is one of the oldest and most reputable of its kind in the world.

The face of yachting and luxury living in the Caribbean is evolving and Christophe Harbour is leading the way.

This isn’t just any Caribbean destination; this is Christophe Harbour.

See HERE to find out more

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