Superyacht News

The Dutch shipyard Oceanco has officially marked a significant milestone in its Life Cycle Support history with the relaunch of the 92.8-meter (304ft) Draak. Emerging from the builder’s Zwijndrecht facilities on February 7, 2026, the vessel—formerly known as Tranquility and Equanimity—has undergone one of the most complex structural and operational transformations in recent maritime history.

Originally delivered in 2014, Draak returned to her birthplace not for a mere cosmetic refresh, but for a fundamental re-engineering of her purpose. The project has successfully transitioned the vessel from a standalone primary superyacht into a highly specialized companion yacht, designed to operate in tandem with the superyacht Leviathan.

The Italian shipyard Benetti has made a definitive statement in the steel superyacht sector, celebrating the launch of two 67-meter giants in less than a month. Just three weeks after the debut of M/Y Symmetry, the Livorno facility witnessed the launch of her sister ship, M/Y Dagger, marking a milestone for the shipyard’s B.Now 67M series.

These two custom vessels represent a significant leap forward in maritime engineering as the first hybrid units in the B.Now 67M family. Built with steel hulls and aluminum superstructures, both yachts prioritize environmental consciousness without compromising the grand volumes and luxury synonymous with the Benetti brand.

The Italian yachting industry continues its impressive momentum into early 2026 as Baglietto announces the launch of Marsa Luna, the eighth unit in its highly successful T52 motor yacht series. The ceremony took place in late December at Baglietto’s La Spezia shipyard, marking a significant milestone for a model that has rapidly become a benchmark in the 50-meter displacement category.

Attended by Baglietto management and the owner’s representative team—comprising Kirill Kuatov of NAU Yachts and Aberton Yachts—the launch highlights the sustained demand for the T52 platform. Marsa Luna (Hull #10253) is not merely a production success; she represents the technical evolution of the series, being only the second T52 to feature an upgraded hybrid propulsion system.

The Italian superyacht sector has marked a significant milestone with the launch of M/Y HEED, a 53-meter full-custom masterpiece from the renowned Rossinavi shipyard. Emerging from the facility in Pisa on January 26, 2026, the vessel represents a harmonious fusion of Italian craftsmanship, cutting-edge naval architecture, and a forward-thinking approach to sustainable yachting.

Commissioned by an owner seeking a high-performance yet tranquil maritime experience, M/Y HEED is the result of a collaborative design team. The exterior lines were penned by Alberto Mancini Yacht Design, while the interior spaces were curated by the visionary Achille Salvagni Architetti.

The project was meticulously overseen by Matty Zadnikar of SeaNet SuperYachts, acting as the Owner’s Representative. His involvement ensured that the complex engineering requirements of a 53-meter vessel remained elegantly packaged within the strategically advantageous 499 GT (Gross Tonnage) threshold.

ENGLISH HARBOUR, ANTIGUA — In the dark, early hours off the coast of Antigua, the future of offshore racing arrived at thirty knots. The 34-metre Baltic 111 Raven did not just win the 2026 RORC Transatlantic Race; she dismantled the established order. Crossing the finish line on January 18 to claim Monohull Line Honours and the IMA Transatlantic Trophy, Raven stopped the clock with a time of six days and 22 hours, shattering the monohull race record and completing the 3,000-nautical-mile sprint from Lanzarote in under a week.

For the yachting industry, this is more than a trophy win; it is a validation of one of the most audacious naval architecture experiments of the last decade. Raven is a vessel that defies traditional categorization—neither a displacement yacht nor a fully flying foiler, but a foil-assisted ultra-lightweight hybrid designed to sit in the sweet spot of high-speed stability.

AALSMEER, NETHERLANDS — Feadship has officially launched the 49.50-metre (162'5") Project 717, a vessel that challenges the traditional spatial limitations of the sub-50-metre market. Emerging from the construction hall at the Royal Dutch Shipyard’s Aalsmeer facility on January 8, 2026, the all-aluminium yacht showcases a design philosophy centered on maximizing volume and onboard flow without compromising the sleek, balanced profile synonymous with the Feadship marque.

While many yachts in this size category struggle to balance interior volume with exterior elegance, Project 717 appears to have solved the equation through subtle architectural sleight of hand. By extending the exterior lines and widening the superstructure’s "shoulders," the design team has created a vessel that offers the amenities and spatial experience typically reserved for larger platforms.

The superyacht sector has a new standard-bearer for volume optimization. Bilgin Yachts has successfully launched NB83, the latest hull in its acclaimed 52-meter Bilgin 170 series, at the builder’s Antalya facility. Following the path blazed by her predecessor Tamasha, NB83 represents a significant maturation of the 50-meter platform, combining the robust "Made in Türkiye" engineering pedigree with a sophisticated design ethos that challenges the spatial limitations of the 500 GT regulatory threshold.

For industry observers and prospective owners, the launch is more than a splash; it is a confirmation of Bilgin’s strategic pivot toward vertically integrated production in Antalya, where engineering precision increasingly meets artisanal execution.

Dutch custom yacht builder Oceanco has officially delivered the 111-meter (364ft) motor yacht DreAMBoat, formerly known as Project Y726. Commissioned in 2022 for a repeat client, this massive vessel boasts a volume of 4,550 GT, making it one of the largest yachts by volume ever constructed by the Alblasserdam shipyard.

However, the true headline of this launch is not just the scale, but the speed. DreAMBoat represents a paradigm shift in superyacht construction, having been delivered in November 2025—just four years after initial discussions began in November 2021.

MARINA DI CARRARA — In a move that reinforces its dominance in the large yacht sector, Admiral Yachts, a flagship brand of The Italian Sea Group (TISG), has officially launched the first hull of its new Panorama 50 line. The 50-meter superyacht, which hit the water at the group’s headquarters in Marina di Carrara on December 2, 2025, represents a strategic evolution for the Italian builder, blending the solidity of serial production with the bespoke elegance of high-end custom yachting.

For industry observers and prospective owners, the launch of the Panorama 50 is more than just a new vessel hitting the water; it is a confirmation of the growing market appetite for "semi-custom" platforms that offer reduced delivery times without compromising on volume or prestige.

The superyacht industry turned its gaze toward Vlissingen, the Netherlands, on October 28, 2025, as Damen Yachting officially announced the delivery and departure of PANGEA. This 80-metre vessel is not merely another hull hitting the water. It represents the very first delivery from the highly anticipated Amels 80 Limited Editions design series. For the Dutch shipyard, the handover of PANGEA marks a significant operational achievement and the tangible debut of a platform intended to redefine the standards of modern luxury in the 80-metre sector.

The project has been watched closely by market analysts and enthusiasts alike since the design was first unveiled. As the first unit of this series to launch, PANGEA serves as the proof of concept for the Amels 80 visionary approach. The yacht combines the pedigree of a proven engineering platform with the flexibility usually reserved for fully custom projects. Jan van Hogerwou, Commercial Executive for North America at Damen Yachting, noted the close cooperation with the owner's team throughout the build. He characterized the project as a partnership built on a shared vision and trust.

Design Pedigree and Exterior Architecture

To craft the identity of the Amels 80, Damen Yachting enlisted Espen Øino International for the exterior design. The result is a profile that balances contemporary lines with the functional robustness required for global cruising. Øino, a designer known for some of the world's most iconic gigayachts, has penned a silhouette for PANGEA that appears sleek despite her substantial 2,175 Gross Tonnage volume.

The vessel measures 80 metres (261 feet) in length with a beam of 12.5 metres (41 feet). These dimensions provide the canvas for a layout that emphasizes connection to the sea while maintaining distinct zones for privacy and social interaction. The exterior spaces are designed to be as functional as they are aesthetic. A prime example is the inclusion of a touch-and-go helicopter landing area. This ensures the vessel is accessible in remote locations or capable of facilitating rapid transport for guests.

The operational capabilities of the yacht have been optimized through smart layout choices. PANGEA features a dedicated forward tender garage. By placing the storage for watercraft and toys in the bow, the design team freed up the premium real estate at the stern for guest use. This is a critical modification that maximizes the leisure potential of the aft decks.

The Dutch superyacht sector witnessed a significant operational development this week as Damen Yachting initiated sea trials for its latest maritime behemoth. Known as Project Tanzanite, this 120-metre vessel has officially departed the shipyard’s facilities in Vlissingen to begin rigorous testing protocols in the North Sea. For the shipbuilding community and the Ultra High Net Worth market, this transition from the outfitting quay to open water represents a pivotal moment in the lifecycle of a custom superyacht.

The initiation of sea trials is the first time the vessel’s complex engineering systems are subjected to real-world operational loads. Following the yacht’s recent float-out within the dock at the Amels main shipyard, the technical teams have now shifted their focus to performance validation. This phase serves to verify the naval architecture, propulsion efficiency, and dynamic positioning capabilities of the 6,083 Gross Ton (GT) platform. The North Sea, known for its challenging conditions, provides an exacting environment for these crucial tests.

The Journey of a Full Custom Build

Project Tanzanite is an Amels Full Custom build, a classification that denotes a completely bespoke project engineered from the keel up to meet specific owner requirements. This stands in contrast to the shipyard’s Limited Editions range, which utilizes pre-engineered platforms. The scale of this project required a dual-location construction strategy. The steel hull was originally fabricated at Damen’s facility in Galati, Romania. It arrived in the Netherlands in June 2023 for the complex outfitting phase.

Since its arrival in Vlissingen, the vessel has undergone extensive structural and technical integration. The move to sea trials signals that the propulsion, power generation, and navigation systems have reached a state of operational readiness. Damen Yachting, responsible for the naval architecture, utilizes this phase to ensure that the theoretical calculations regarding stability and speed align with the physical reality of the vessel in motion.

The Eastern Mediterranean superyacht sector witnessed a major development this October as Bilgin Yachts announced the launch of M/Y Tamasha. As the first unit of the shipyard’s 52-meter 170 series, this vessel represents a strategic expansion for the Istanbul-based builder. The launch follows closely on the heels of the Monaco Yacht Show, where the brand displayed the 50-meter M/Y Camila, effectively showcasing the breadth of their current production capabilities within a single season.

The launch operation took place at the West Istanbul Marina, the location of the shipyard's headquarters. This event marks the transition of the vessel from heavy construction to the final outfitting phase. According to the shipyard, the 52-meter platform is not merely an addition to the fleet but a central pillar of their future growth, designed to offer the volume and amenities of larger superyachts while maintaining a manageable operational footprint.

A Departure in Design and Aesthetics

M/Y Tamasha immediately sets herself apart from her predecessors through a specific aesthetic choice: a light brown hull. This color scheme is a first for Bilgin Yachts and was selected to establish an organic visual relationship with the sea. Emrecan Özgün of Unique Yacht Design, who helmed the exterior styling and naval architecture, noted that the aim was to create a vessel that functions as a personal statement. The profile is described as masculine and athletic, featuring a more aggressive bow structure than previous models in the shipyard's portfolio.

The launch of the custom 95-foot sailing yacht Ouzel in Maine marks a significant milestone for U.S. superyacht construction, blending traditional cold-molded techniques with high-performance carbon engineering.

November 2025 (Rockport, Maine) – The icy waters of Rockport Harbor witnessed a significant moment for the American superyacht industry this week. Rockport Marine successfully completed the technical launch of Ouzel, a 95-foot (29-meter) custom sloop that challenges the prevailing dominance of European shipyards in the sailing superyacht sector. Following her float-out, the vessel has immediately commenced mechanical and systems trials.

This launch represents the culmination of a three-year collaboration between a global team of designers and builders. The project brings together the expertise of Newport-based Langan Design Partners, UK-based Mark Whiteley Design, and the seasoned project management team at MCM Newport. For the owner, an experienced yachtsman, the decision to build in Maine was a deliberate choice to leverage New England’s deep maritime heritage rather than defaulting to established European yards.

The landscape of the superyacht industry often focuses on length, volume, and opulent finishes. However, the delivery of the 111-meter (363ft) Leviathan by Dutch builder Oceanco marks a distinct pivot toward a different metric: utility and community. Formerly known as Project Y722, this diesel-electric vessel is not merely a private residence at sea. It represents a fundamental rethinking of the operational hierarchy onboard, driven by the vision of her owner, Gabe Newell.

Newell, known for his influential role in the technology and gaming sectors, approached the build with an ethos grounded in teamwork. The result is a vessel where the lines between guest luxury and crew operation are intentionally blurred to foster a cohesive onboard culture. Following successful sea trials and her recent delivery, Leviathan stands as a highly technical platform designed for global exploration, scientific research, and community building.

A Collaborative Philosophy

The development of Leviathan was characterized by an unusual level of integration between the client and the build team. The project saw close cooperation between Oceanco, the owner’s representatives at YTMC and Y.CO, and the design studio Mark Berryman Design. Unlike traditional builds where the owner’s team and the shipyard might remain in separate silos, Newell encouraged openness throughout the process.

The landscape of large-scale sailing yachts is set to be redefined by a project that combines proven engineering with unprecedented vertical scale. Royal Huisman has officially unveiled SKY, a concept for an 81-meter (264-foot) flybridge sloop that presents a rare proposition in the superyacht market. While the length of the vessel places it firmly in the upper echelon of the global fleet, it is the rig that demands immediate attention. Crowned by a carbon rig from Rondal, SKY boasts an air draft of 93 meters (305 feet), a height that equals the towering height of the Statue of Liberty from ground to torch.

This announcement is not merely a design study but a fully realized engineering package. Royal Huisman has confirmed that the design and the majority of the engineering are already completed, categorizing SKY as "ready to build". This strategic preparation allows for a delivery timeline that significantly undercuts the industry standard for custom vessels of this magnitude.

The "Ready to Build" Advantage

In the ultra-high-net-worth sector, time is often the most valuable asset. Customarily, a project of this size involves a process spanning six or more years, beginning with architect briefings and moving through multiple design iterations before delivery. SKY circumvents the initial phases of this cycle because challenges have been identified, addressed, and solved, and most production engineering is done.

By resolving the design, naval architecture, and engineering challenges beforehand, Royal Huisman offers a projected delivery of Spring 2030. This groundwork saves significant development time and creates a unique opportunity for an owner who decides to proceed. CEO Peter Naeyé notes that while the majority of production engineering is done, the layout and style remain open to personalization. This approach provides a visionary owner the benefits of a full custom build without the extended lead times usually associated with prototype development.

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) has long served as the global stage for maritime innovation, yet this year marks a distinct shift in the narrative of luxury propulsion. Vessev, a marine technology innovator hailing from Auckland, New Zealand, has utilized this prestigious event to introduce the VS–9 Skye to the American market. This launch is not merely about a new hull or updated upholstery; it represents a fundamental change in how we interact with the water. The VS–9 Skye is a premium electric hydrofoiling vessel designed to blend high-performance efficiency with the refined comfort demanded by the luxury leisure sector.

A New Philosophy of Movement

The core promise of the VS–9 Skye is the redefinition of freedom on the open water. Traditional combustion-engine vessels have long been associated with noise, vibration, and the jarring impact of waves. Vessev challenges this status quo by delivering a flight-like experience that is smooth, silent, and devoid of emissions. By utilizing advanced carbon fiber foils, the vessel lifts its hull completely out of the water. This hydrofoiling capability eliminates the slamming motion typically experienced in choppy conditions, ensuring a serene journey for all passengers.

This technology fosters a deeper connection between passengers and their environment. Without the roar of an engine or the distraction of hull slap, the Skye allows for effortless conversation and a peaceful appreciation of the seascape. It is designed for those who wish to escape the noise and chart their own course with clarity and calm.

Flowform: Winch Design and Mani Frers Unveil a 35m Sailing Sculpture at Monaco Yacht Show 2025

Monaco, September 24, 2025 – Winch Design and Frers Design have debuted Flowform, a 35-metre sailing yacht concept, at the Monaco Yacht Show 2025. Presented through an immersive installation in the Design & Innovation Hub, the unveiling introduced a vision of sailing that unites nature, performance, and artistry in a seamless whole.

The Italian Sea Group Premieres Tecnomar for Lamborghini 101 at the Monaco Yacht Show 2025

Monaco, September 24, 2025 – The Italian Sea Group (TISG) drew the spotlight yesterday at the Monaco Yacht Show with the world premiere of the Tecnomar for Lamborghini 101FT, a groundbreaking new entry in the shipyard’s collaboration with Automobili Lamborghini. Presented at the Yacht Club de Monaco before an audience of industry leaders, clients, and media, the unveiling marked a defining moment for luxury yacht design and performance.

A new titan has entered the water in the Netherlands, marking a historic moment for one of the world's most esteemed shipyards. Dutch builder Amels has officially launched Project Tanzanite, a 120-metre (394-foot) Full Custom superyacht that now stands as the largest vessel ever constructed by the yard. The milestone event saw the colossal yacht floated in the main dock at the Amels shipyard in Vlissingen City, signaling the start of her final and most intricate outfitting stage.

The launch is a pivotal moment in a build process that spans multiple countries and requires immense logistical precision. Project Tanzanite is not just a vessel; it is a statement of capability and a testament to the enduring strength of the large superyacht market. With an imposing internal volume of 6,083 GT, her scale is difficult to overstate, placing her firmly in the upper echelon of the global superyacht fleet.

The Italian builder Overmarine Group has announced the successful launch of the sixth hull in its acclaimed Mangusta Oceano 44 series. The 44-meter tri-deck displacement yacht entered the water on August 11th at the company’s dedicated shipyard in Pisa, Italy, marking another milestone for one of the brand's most popular long-range models.

This launch confirms the continued appeal of the Oceano 44, a yacht celebrated for its blend of sophisticated naval architecture and a design philosophy centered on creating an intimate connection with the sea. Conceived as a floating villa, the vessel combines formidable transoceanic capabilities with the comforts and seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces.