Industry News

The world of luxury yachting has reached a significant milestone as Four Seasons I successfully completed its inaugural float-out at the Fincantieri shipyard in Ancona, Italy. This historic event marks a major step forward in the vessel’s construction, bringing Four Seasons Yachts one step closer to redefining high-end cruising. With its debut scheduled for January 2026, the float-out ceremony was not only a technical achievement but also a celebration of craftsmanship, innovation, and the vision behind one of the most anticipated yacht launches in recent history.

A Game-Changer for Sustainable Yachting

Sanlorenzo has once again redefined the boundaries of innovation and sustainability in yachting. In partnership with MAN, the Italian shipyard announced the development of the industry’s first bi-fuel yacht powered by green methanol, setting a new environmental benchmark. Revealed at Boot Düsseldorf’s Blue Innovation Dock, this groundbreaking project aims to cut navigation emissions by up to 70%, reinforcing Sanlorenzo’s leadership in sustainable yachting.

At the heart of this initiative is the new 50 X-Space, a superyacht designed to integrate cutting-edge propulsion technology while maintaining Sanlorenzo’s signature luxury and craftsmanship. The yacht’s bi-fuel system, developed in collaboration with MAN, allows it to run on a mix of diesel and green methanol, significantly reducing carbon emissions. This project is a crucial step in Sanlorenzo’s "Road to 2030" strategy, which aims to introduce the first carbon-neutral yacht by the decade’s end.

A Revolution in Underwater Exploration

January 2025 – The Netherlands – U-Boat Worx, a global leader in private, research, and commercial submersibles, has unveiled breathtaking new imagery of its flagship model, the Super Sub. With more than 60 operational submersibles worldwide, the Dutch company continues to push the boundaries of innovation, luxury, and performance.

The Super Sub is a high-speed luxury submersible designed for elite underwater exploration. Its cutting-edge propulsion system, capable of reaching speeds up to 9 knots (10.3 mph), makes it one of the fastest personal submersibles ever built. Designed to maneuver with agility and grace, the Super Sub offers thrilling 45-degree climbs and stunning underwater acrobatics—transforming ocean exploration into an immersive adventure.

Porsche, a brand synonymous with high-performance automobiles, is charting new waters in electric mobility. With Austria’s prestigious Frauscher Shipyard, Porsche has introduced the 850 Fantom, a luxurious all-electric sports boat featuring high-performance technology derived from the Porsche Macan Turbo. Following the success of their open-deck day cruiser, the 850 Fantom Air, this new iteration—dubbed a "runabout"—offers a closed foredeck and cabin for a more classic and versatile maritime experience.

This innovation, set to debut at boot Düsseldorf 2025, the world’s largest indoor water sports fair, promises to redefine standards in electric boating.

Acquera Yachting has strengthened its presence in the Caribbean by opening new offices in Antigua and Anguilla, increasing its footprint to eight strategic locations. Announced just ahead of the Caribbean high season, this expansion positions the global yachting services leader to meet growing demand in a region that sees over 1,500 superyachts during peak months.

The addition of Antigua and Anguilla is part of Acquera’s accelerated growth strategy, supported by the acquisition of key businesses and the hiring of 40 new agents across the Caribbean. Of these, 23 professionals bring extensive local expertise, enabling the agency to offer personalized, efficient solutions for captains, crews, and charter brokers navigating the area’s logistical challenges. According to Chief HR Officer Diana Guidi, this expansion is aimed at delivering top-tier services and reducing response times across key yachting hotspots.

The Ocean Race 2022-23 has unveiled a concerning global picture of microplastic pollution in the world's oceans, thanks to groundbreaking data collected by sailors and analyzed by leading researchers. Throughout a 60,000-kilometer journey through some of the planet's most remote waters, every sample collected contained microplastics, shining a stark light on the pervasive nature of plastic pollution.

The Vendée Globe, the world's premier solo, non-stop round-the-world race, is in full swing, with the top skippers navigating past the Portuguese islands of Madeira. This tenth edition of the race has brought triumph and tribulation, with record-breaking performances tempered by equipment issues, uncooperative weather, and critical repair needs. As the fleet surges onward, skippers are working strategically to minimize disruptions, especially as the unique geography around Madeira presents both opportunities and challenges.

IYC, one of the world’s largest and most respected yachting companies, has announced an exciting addition to their charter fleet – the 181-foot Admiral superyacht, RAJA. Designed for seamless luxury and equipped with amenities catering to relaxation and adventure, RAJA will be available for charter in Croatia and Greece in the summer of 2025. Head of Charter Management in Greece, Xenia Tsipidou, oversees this extraordinary addition, which promises to set a new standard for yachting excellence in the Mediterranean.

If you're seeking an unforgettable luxury charter experience in 2025, look no further than ANDIAMO, the latest and only Sanlorenzo SD132 available for charter worldwide. Managed by IYC and set for delivery for the 2025 summer season, this 133' 7" (40.7m) yacht promises a distinct and sophisticated charter experience tailored to discerning guests.

Here's everything you need to know about this stunning new addition to the luxury yacht charter scene. It is designed to combine elegant modern aesthetics, high-end comfort, and adventure.

The world of luxury yachting is about to welcome a striking new vessel as OCULUS debuts in the IYC charter fleet. With its sleek design and exceptional amenities, OCULUS offers guests comfort, adventure, and style. The 122'5" (37.3m) yacht, built by renowned Turkish shipyard Numarine, is set to turn heads at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show and promises to deliver an extraordinary experience for those fortunate enough to charter her.

For centuries, the safety of vessels relied on the sharp eyes of sailors stationed high above in the crow’s nest, scanning the horizon for potential hazards. The advent of radar technology in the mid-20th century marked a significant leap, allowing mariners to detect objects beyond the visual range, particularly in poor visibility conditions. Later, Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) added another layer of safety by enabling the identification of vessels equipped with transponders.

However, traditional radar and AIS systems have limitations, particularly when it comes to detecting non-metallic objects or small, unmarked vessels. This is where SEA.AI’s cutting-edge technology comes into play, offering a transformative approach to maritime safety.

The beluga whale known as “Hvaldimir,” nicknamed after the Norwegian word for whale (hval) and Russian President Vladimir Putin, was found dead off the coast of Norway in September 2024. This discovery marks a tragic end to a story that captured global attention when Hvaldimir first appeared in Norwegian waters in 2019, sparking speculation that he was trained as a spy by the Russian military.

The Origins of Hvaldimir

Hvaldimir was first spotted near the island of Ingoya, in northern Norway, approximately 300 kilometers from Russia’s maritime border. The whale was wearing a harness fitted with a GoPro camera, marked with the words “Equipment of St. Petersburg.” This unusual sight led to widespread speculation that Hvaldimir had been trained by the Russian Navy, possibly for espionage purposes, as similar practices involving marine animals like dolphins and sea lions have been documented.

Beluga whales are native to the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, and they are known for their sociability and intelligence. These mammals can live up to 60 years and typically grow to about 13 to 20 feet in length, weighing between 1,100 and 2,200 pounds. Their distinctive white color and lack of a dorsal fin make them easily recognizable. Belugas are also highly vocal, earning them the nickname “canaries of the sea” due to the wide range of sounds they produce.

The world of luxury yachting continues to evolve with the latest addition to the IYC charter fleet: the magnificent EVA4EVA. This stunning 146-foot (44.47m) superyacht, built by the renowned Mangusta (Overmarine) shipyard in 2024, epitomizes modern design and luxurious comfort, offering an unparalleled experience on the open seas. With a weekly charter rate starting at €319,000, plus expenses, EVA4EVA is poised to set new standards in the global charter market.

Carmel, California, August 16, 2024,—Rolls-Royce Motor Cars continues to redefine luxury and craftsmanship with the unveiling of the Phantom Scintilla, a new Private Collection showcased at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering during Monterey Car Week. This meticulously crafted series, limited to ten commissions worldwide, pays homage to the Spirit of Ecstasy. This iconic Rolls-Royce mascot has symbolized elegance and grace for over a century.

In a world where luxury yachting continues to grow as an industry of sophistication and grandeur, the need for skilled professionals to support its diverse operations has never been more pressing. The Yacht Club de Monaco’s La Belle Classe Academy is at the forefront of addressing this demand. Established in 2015, the Academy is rapidly expanding its training programs to meet the evolving needs of the yachting industry, now offering a robust curriculum that includes the prestigious RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Level 1 and 2 Powerboat Handling courses. These courses are now available year-round, further enhancing the Academy’s reputation as a premier destination for yachting education.

Monaco: The Capital of Advanced Yachting

La Belle Classe Academy's mission is closely tied to the broader initiative of positioning Monaco as the "Capital of Advanced Yachting." This effort, led by the Yacht Club de Monaco, aims to solidify the Principality’s standing as a global hub for yachting expertise. Bernard d’Alessandri, the General Secretary of Yacht Club de Monaco, encapsulates this vision, stating, “We are proud to contribute to the professionalization of the yachting sector and in so doing reinforcing Monaco’s international reputation.”

In a significant addition to the IYC sales fleet, the 2024 REPOSADO, a 170' 8'' (52m) motor sailer crafted by Tramontana Yachts, has been introduced. Priced at €12,900,000, this custom-built yacht epitomizes the fusion of sailing passion with the luxury and comfort synonymous with superyachts. Represented by Sales Consultant Martin Juhar, REPOSADO is set to redefine the standards of luxury yachting in the Mediterranean.

REPOSADO stands as a groundbreaking vessel, merging the traditional allure of sailing with the opulence and high-end service expected onboard a superyacht. This harmonious blend creates an unparalleled experience for those aboard, whether for charter or private cruising. The yacht is designed to welcome 12 guests across six convertible cabins, including a full-beam Master suite and a VIP cabin, ensuring flexibility and comfort for all guests.

IYC, one of the world's leading international yachting companies, proudly announces the addition of the 133' (41m) 2024 ORENDA to its sales fleet. Represented by Richard Gray, the UK Head of Sales, ORENDA stands as a testament to advanced engineering and exquisite design, offering an unmatched yachting experience.

Hull No.16 of the Oasis 40m series, ORENDA was delivered in June 2024. This vessel exemplifies luxury and sophistication, accommodating up to 14 guests in six meticulously designed cabins, including an on-deck full-beam master suite. The interior design is highlighted by large windows that allow natural light to flood in, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. The exterior decks are equally impressive, featuring a main deck aft infinity pool, the popular oasis beach club layout, and a sun deck jacuzzi with a unique party mode feature.

In a significant addition to its prestigious sales fleet, IYC is thrilled to announce the listing of the 110’ (33.52m) Riva yacht, ONYX, under the expert representation of Sales Consultant Michael Rafferty. With her sleek design, spacious interiors, and state-of-the-art amenities, ONYX stands out as an exceptional offering in the luxury yacht market.

Unmatched Luxury and Comfort

Built-in 2019 and recently updated in 2024, ONYX is a testament to Riva’s dedication to craftsmanship and innovation. Her stylish and contemporary interior offers an inviting atmosphere that maximizes comfort and functionality. ONYX can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests in five beautifully appointed cabins. The highlight of these accommodations is the expansive on-deck full-beam master suite, which offers unparalleled space and luxury for the owner. Large windows throughout the yacht ensure every corner is flooded with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming ambiance.

Among the longest-living creatures on our planet, the Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) stands out for its impressive lifespan and its enigmatic existence in the icy depths of the Arctic and North Atlantic Oceans. These ancient mariners, sometimes living over 400 years, are proof of the intriguing adaptations of life in extreme environments.

MY MISTAKE has made waves in the luxury yacht charter market, joining the prestigious International Yacht Collection (IYC) fleet. Managed by Eleni Zissi out of the Athens office, this remarkable 108-foot (33-meter) Custom Line yacht offers an unmatched experience for discerning guests. Built in 2023, MY MISTAKE is now available for charter starting from €89,000 per week, plus expenses.

MY MISTAKE boasts an elegant and spacious design, ideal for families or groups of friends seeking an unforgettable escape on the water. With five luxurious cabins, the yacht comfortably accommodates up to ten guests. The child-friendly setup ensures guests of all ages enjoy a safe and enjoyable voyage.

The yacht’s interior design stands out for its generous use of space and natural light. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the living areas with sunlight, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. The modern, sophisticated decor enhances the sense of luxury, making every moment on board a pleasure.