August 31st, 2010
Superyacht builder Kingship is set to reveal details about cutting-edge new designs at the Monaco Yacht Show. The Hong Kong shipyard is working with Donald Starkey and Azure Naval Architects in the design and development of a 156-foot megayacht. The profile reflects a striking yet subtle juxtaposition of classic and futuristic lines. While plumb bow hull design is a recent trend, it actually originated in classic commuter yacht design.
The plumb bow, circular port lights on the forward main deck and sweeping sheer line are reminiscent of the Golden Age of yachting. These elements integrated with a very futuristic dynamism of exterior styling succeed in producing what Kingship terms a “modern gentleman’s yacht”.
The general arrangement features six suites, spacious lounges and plentiful deck spaces for entertaining including a partially shaded sun deck with a bar/dining area and sizeable Jacuzzi on the forward sunning area.
Kingship also raises the bar on efficient long-range explorers, an increasingly popular alternative to the classic white yacht. The HT116’
Explorer reaches a maximum speed of 13 knots with a 7,000Nm range. Two additional models in the series, a 148-footer and an 87-footer, are new versions that vary little other than in size. All three incorporate a novel stabilization system at anchor based on two non-retractable fins.
Posted in Industry Shows, Monaco, Motor Yachts, Technology, Top Yachts, Yachting news | No Comments »
August 26th, 2010
Feadship anticipates making a big splash at their debut at the Cannes International Yacht and Boat Show this September 8-13, with plans to reveal the newest build in the SL39 modular series, the 128-foot luxury charter yacht GO.
GO is a superb Feadship charter yacht featuring stylish interiors, a variety of outdoor living areas and an extremely attentive crew. The pre-determined hull construction, technical systems and equipment of the series insure extraordinary seaworthy capability synonymous with the brand. Completely customized above the waterline, modern interiors are characterized by bright spaces and a relaxing earth-tone palette.
Among the notable features that contribute to make GO an exquisite charter yacht is the clever flexibility of space. The modular sofa in the main salon rotates to enjoy panoramic ocean views aft or a flick on the state-of-the-art entertainment system. On the lower deck, two of the four guest suites can be reconfigured as full-beam VIP suites. The bridge deck features adaptable seating and a quadruple sliding door that joins interior and exterior areas.
After debuting in Cannes, GO will join larger Feadship yachts on display at the Monaco show. Currently for sale, GO is available for summer charter in the Mediterranean and winter in the Caribbean. This exciting luxury yacht promises to be extremely popular on the charter circuit, especially over the holidays. Contact a Boatbookings professional now to reserve this splendid yacht for an incomparable yachting experience.
LOA: 128’
Beam: 30’
Draft: 9’
Fuel: 10,568 GAL.
Water: 3,170 Gal.
Engines: MTU 12V 2000 M70
Maximum speed: 14 knots
Guests: 10 in 5 cabins
Crew: 7
Posted in Cannes, Destination Information, Industry Shows, Monaco, Motor Yachts, South of France, Top Yachts, Yacht Types, Yachting news | No Comments »
August 24th, 2010
Just launched from Feadship Royal Van Lent, SIRIUS is destined to make a serious splash on the superyacht charter circuit. SIRIUS, the fourth in the F45 Vantage custom series, incorporates impressive styling and features that make it an optimal choice for the discriminating charter client.
Interior design by Sinot Design Associates features classic art deco styling in a modern context. Clean lines and contrasting woods define spaces and create a stylish beach house ambiance that is elegant yet understated.
Innovative architecture by De Voogt Naval Architects positions five spacious suites with on the main deck. The full-beam master suite has an unusual 10’6” central ceiling capped by a skylight. Four ensuite staterooms are equipped with queen size beds that can be converted to twins. Over-size windows provide superb views and flood these private areas, including bathrooms, with natural light. The main-deck office features a full-size Murphy bed for additional accommodation.
Charters guests will especially enjoy many outdoor options on SIRIUS, from dining al fresco on the decks to a plethora of watersports activities from the boathouse platform. The Jacuzzi forward on the sundeck offers a perfect place for sun worshippers to relax and enjoy panoramic views.
This beautifully engineered and executed yacht is just one example of the many extraordinary luxury yachts available from Boatbookings.com. Please contact a Boatbookings charter professional to reserve the perfect yacht for you and your guests. Prepare to experience the ultimate vacation.
LOA: 146’6”
Beam: 30’2”
Draft: 8’10”
Fuel: 10,500 GAL.
Water: 2,600 GAL.
Engines: 2 x MTU 12V2000M70
Maximum speed: 14.5 knots
Range: Transatlantic
Stabilizers: VT Naiad Marine zero-speed
Posted in Crewed Charter, Motor Yachts, Top Yachts, Yacht Types, Yachting news | No Comments »
August 19th, 2010
Sri Lanka’s English newspaper, the Sunday Observer, highlighted plans to promote yacht chartering from the island’s cities of Galle and Colombo. In a brief interview with the country’s Deputy Minister of Ports and Aviation, Dayasritha Tissera, it appears that the government is enthusiastic about immediate investment in the marine sector.
The South Asian island country, located about 20 miles off the southern coast of India, is a destination of primal forests, pristine beaches, breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural traditions. The Ministry hopes to entice both local and foreign tourists to depart from hotel stays and embark on “luxury boat safaris” to destinations around the exotic island. To this end, Tissera outlined plans to purchase four luxury yachts with four to six cabins, suitable for up to 20 guests.
The Ministry also wants to launch a luxury passenger liner yacht service to connect the harbors of Colombo, Trincomalee, Kankesanturai and Galle, with extended service to neighboring India. Plans also include construction of a first-class yachting center and marina in the old port area of Galle.
The Ministry is undertaking these initiatives with confidence that the now peaceful country’s lighter security restrictions will enable passenger travel unencumbered by red tape. The Ministry has set a November goal for the luxury yacht launch, however exact dates remain uncertain. Perhaps this is because, according to Tissera, the Ministry is presently seeking investors for the projects.
Posted in Crewed Charter, Destination Information, Indian Ocean, Motor Yachts, Yacht Types, Yachting news | 1 Comment »
August 10th, 2010
Catamaran yachts are rapidly gaining popularity for their inherent stability, expansive exterior space and roomy interior layout. They are also notable for superior energy efficiency. One of the newest models to emerge from the drawing board is 81’ KHARIMA, designed by Antonio Luxardo of Pro Ship and under construction at a boatyard in Qingdao, China.
Innovative architectural features on the yacht include a main deck salon that encompasses 1,184 square feet and a foredeck owner’s suite with 180-degree panoramic views. Two VIP ensuite staterooms and two crew cabins are positioned on the lower deck. The spacious flybridge is the perfect spot for guests to enjoy magnificent views in sun or shade, or cocktails and dinner al fresco.
KHARIMA 81 incorporates significant new trends in catamaran construction beyond the apparent. To further enhance exterior space two concealed side platforms open out when desired to generously expand options for sun and fun. Ample storage space for tenders and toys is equipped with an interior crane for launching. The high performance hull is designed for greater speed, stability and energy efficiency. All things considered, KHARIMA 81 is shaping up as a very competitive build in an
aggressively expanding sector.
Boatbookings.com has a superior selection of luxury catamaran motor yachts available for charter – feel free to visit our Catamaran Yacht Charter and Sailing Vacation Guide.
Posted in Catamarans, Top Yachts, Yacht Types, Yachting news | No Comments »
August 7th, 2010

The newest project from Heesen Yachts, in build for Mr. And Mrs. Heesen, is a steel-hull, full-displacement yacht designed for transoceanic adventure. The general arrangement and interior design of the yacht present an exciting departure from the norm. While guest suites occupy their traditional position on the lower deck, the Owner’s suite is secluded on the upper deck for privacy and tranquility, especially important when cruising with younger members of the extended family. To the delight of the children, forward on the main deck is a dedicated media and games room with panoramic views.
The design firm of Bannenberg & Rowell employs an imaginative combination of styles that result in strikingly modern interiors. The company is known
for merging various styles and materials for an eclectic effect that while ultra contemporary is practical and inviting. Influenced by 20th Century industrial Dutch design and optical geometrics, interior spaces impart an urban futuristic flair that is a clean departure from traditional yacht interiors. Boatbloggings will continue to track the progress of this yacht, scheduled for delivery in spring of 2012, which promises to be well worth watching!
LOA: 154’
Beam: 29’

Draft: 9.3’
Maximum speed: 15.5 knots
Range at 12 knots: 4,000 Nm
Engines: 2x MTU 8V 4000 M70 diesel
Exterior Design: Omega Architects
Interior Design: Bannenberg & Rowell
Photo Credit: Heesen Yachts
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July 31st, 2010
Sunreef Yachts announces the launch of their largest custom-built superyacht catamaran, the Sunreef 114′ CHE, the third largest catamaran in the world. Although details have not yet been made public the sloop-rigged catamaran promises to be an extremely popular option for chartering in the Caribbean this winter. An open architecture floor plan allows for unobstructed central social areas plus three staterooms and two crew cabins nestled comfortably within the hulls. CHE benefits from expansive and beautifully appointed exterior space ideal for sun worship, dining al fresco, or having fun on one of two trampolines. CHE will be completed at the Sunreef docks in Gdansk, Poland, within the next couple of months.
Sunreef 102′ Double Deck IPHARRA, the second largest build launched from the yard last April, has successfully completed sea trials, achieved systems certification by Bureau Veritas and has set sail. Most notably, her double deck flybridge brings this yacht to a whole new level, comfortably furnished for dining, relaxation, or taking a turn at the helm. IPHARRA can currently be spotted in the Eastern Mediterranean prior to making her way to the Caribbean for the winter charter season.
Click here for more about Sunreef Luxury Catamaran Charters.
Posted in Catamarans, Destination Information, Sailing Yachts, Top Yachts, Yachting news | No Comments »
July 30th, 2010
Oceanco continues to push the envelope with futuristic superyacht designs distinguished by never-before-seen features and environmentally conscious engineering. Designed by Russian prodigy Igor Lobanov, Oceanco’s 280’ Project Y708 is no exception.
The ultramodern profile is intended to impart a sense of motion, even when the yacht is at rest, an illusion attributed to the aesthetic continuity of the elegantly angular, beveled superstructure. Exterior spaces include a magnificent 20’ x 12’ infinity pool that converts to a helipad, a feature first introduced in 2007 on Oceanco’s award-winning 267’ Alpha Nero, currently available for charter through Boatbookings.com.
Among many spectacular architectural features on Y708 are private guest balconies on each deck and owner’s compartments
that incorporate two private decks with whirlpool and sunbathing area, bedroom suite, salon and study. Sweeping aft decks that include a beach club with guest sea terrace further expand voluminous interior spaces characteristic of Oceanco’s “Y-series”.
In the last decade Oceanco has launched several distinguished yachts acclaimed for both innovative architectural design and cutting edge technology. At the Asia Boating Awards this May, Oceanco’s fourth in the “Y-series” 280’ Vibrant Curiosity was awarded Best Custom-Built Yacht. Among her many notable features is a three story sweeping vertical expanse of glass amidships.
Oceanco Yachts in the Y-series earn a place among the world’s top 100 superyachts, including charter yachts 262’ Amevi (Y701), 267’ Alfa Nero (Y702) and 245’ Anastasia (Y703), each designed to accommodate 12 guests. Please contact Boatbookings.com for charter information on these spectacular superyachts, and continue to check boatbloggings.com for updates on Project Y708, scheduled for delivery in 2012.
www.oceancoyacht.com
www.oceancoyacht.com/v3/images/content-images/brochures/brochures/pdf/1255074008.pdf
Specifications:
LOA: 280 ft
Beam: 49 ft
Draft Full Load: 13 ft
Fuel: 73,968 Gal. Engines: 2 x MTU 20V 4000
Stabilizers: Rolls-Royce retractable zero-speed stabilization
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July 27th, 2010
Although a relative newcomer in the shipbuilding business, Dunya Yachts is certain to command significant attention at their Monaco Yacht Show display this year. Cutting-edge designs from the yard include a 213’ eco yacht, designed to incorporate the latest trends in green technology, two 236’ yachts under construction and a 289-footer in the works.
236′ Red Square has a voluminous six-deck floor plan with notable features that include a health and beauty spa, a sea-level gymnasium, a sizeable swimming pool, sweeping 50-foot balconies and a dedicated owner’s deck. Interiors by celebrated designer Alberto Pinto juxtapose modernism with Old World elegance to achieve a plush yet vibrant style. Also under construction at the yard is 236’ Warrior, described with even greater interior volume. Both yachts are scheduled for launch next year.
Visually even more radical is 289′ Blade, an appropriate monicker given her dramatic axe-bow. The design represents a collaboration between Dunya Yachts and renowned Ken Freivokh Design. The use of unprecedented amounts of glass results in a daring profile and stunning, ultramodern interiors. A triple-height glass atrium, all-glass swimming pool, seamless panoramic windows and seven guest suites that can be converted to create additional cabins are a few of Blade’s innovative features.
Dunya Yachts is located in Istanbul Turkey, a country that has witnessed tremendous growth in the past decade in yacht design, build and repair. The well-equipped shipyard sprawls over 330,000 square feet including sheds, construction halls and boasts the only climate-controlled dry dock in the country. The shipyard exhibit at the Monaco Yacht Show will be situated at stand QC13 on the Quai Chicane. Please contact Esra Tarlan PR & Marketing of Dunya Yachts for additional information.
Posted in Industry Shows, Monaco, Motor Yachts, Top Yachts, Turkey, Yachting news | No Comments »
July 15th, 2010
The Cannes Festival de la Plaisance (Cannes Boat Show) this September provides a wonderful opportunity to see many fabulous yachts on display. Among them will be
Heesen Yachts’ ninth in the 3700 series, MY Willpower. The yacht, styled by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects, derives a particularly impressive presence form her streamlined profile and lustrous Super Jet Black hull.
The goal of interior designer Gabriel Bernardi of was to create a timeless sense of style through the use of interior elements reminiscent of classic yachts. He states, “My inspiration for this interior and most of my interiors in general, is this incredibly sophisticated era between the two world wars, where style and entertainment took position over outward displays of wealth. Craftsmanship, style, beauty and above all charm were important ingredients to life and people had an aesthetic appreciation and were rarely vulgar.”
Although unusual in contemporary interiors, classic yachts featured freestanding furniture that could be rearranged to accommodate varying social situations, from business meetings to cocktail parties. Bernardi reintroduces this functionality with the same high-level sophistication and quality craftsmanship found on storied vessels of the mid-war period.
Despite MY Willpower’s retro aura it is a thoroughly modern yacht. The owner’s suite, located on the main deck, and four guest cabins are located on the lower deck, are beautifully appointed with convenient
amenities and ample storage. Exterior social areas include the spacious sundeck with sitting area, wet bar and spa pool. Powered by twin MTU 16V 4000 M90 diesel engines, MY Willpower can slice through waves at a speedy 31 knots. In addition, VT Naiad, Active trim tab stabilization helps to insure a smooth ride.
LOA: 122’4”
Beam: 24’7”
Draft: 7’2”
Maximum speed: 31 knots
Range: 2,000 nm @ 12 knots
Fuel: 8,700 Gal.
Water: 2,100 Gal.
Hull type: twin screw, hard chine, semi-displacement
Hull and superstructure material: aluminum
Photo Credits: profile René Keuvelaar – shed Dick Holthuis
We will be blogging all the news from the Cannes Boat Show – and if you plan to be there and would like to look at specific charter yachts, please feel free to contact us – we’d love to meet you!
Posted in Cannes, Destination Information, Motor Yachts, South of France, Top Yachts, Yacht Types, Yachting news | No Comments »