Ranieri International Appoints Madison Bay Holdings the Exclusive Representative Throughout The Americas

Ranieri International Appoints Madison Bay Holdings the Exclusive Representative and Distributor of Ranieri Boats throughout North America and The Americas

Madison Bay Holdings, LLC, now the exclusive representative and distributor for Ranieri International fiberglass and inflatable boats, is establishing a robust network of dealers across the U.S., Canada, and The Americas. Ranieri International, based in Sovarato, Italy, is a renowned boat manufacturer with more than 46 years of experience and recognized as one of the largest and most prestigious boat manufacturers in the European market. Ranieri has an established dealer network spanning Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.

Under the leadership of Ricardo Ruelos, Madison Bay Holdings plans to kickstart the U.S, Canada, and The Americas expansion with a network of dealers to offer Ranieri International’s diverse range of fiberglass boats, including cruisers, center consoles, and walkarounds, with models ranging from 19 feet to 37 feet. Their latest model, the Ranieri NEXT 275 LX, was nominated as the “European Boat of the Year (Up to 10 Meters)” at the Genoa International Boat Show. Additionally, Ranieri produces a series of inflatable boats (RIBs) in sizes from 12 feet to 45 feet.

Founded by Ruelos in Seattle, Washington, and later relocated to Sarasota, Florida, Madison Bay Holdings has a rich history in the marine industry. Ruelos, with more than 35 years of experience, has been involved with manufacturers such as MasterCraft Boat Company, Eliminator, Fountain, Century, Sealine Yachts, and Westship World Yachts.

Salvatore Ranieri and Antonio Ranieri, part of the second-generation management team, expressed their enthusiasm for partnering with Madison Bay Holdings to expand Ranieri International’s presence in North America.

“Over the past year, we have worked closely with Ricardo and Madison Bay Holdings to start building the foundation for the expansion of a select dealer network for Ranieri International in North America. Although Ranieri International has an extensive dealer throughout Europe and other areas in the world, Ricardo has guided us through the process of establishing a valued dealer network in North America. Included in this process has been our recent approvals for Floor Plan Financing that is an important ingredient to provide the support for the new Ranieri International dealers,” they said. “Ricardo also continues to remind us of the importance of giving the amore to our dealers and adopting the philosophy that Ricardo and his company, Madison Bay Holdings, has maintained throughout the thirty-five years of operations that states: ‘We treat our dealers and customers as family.’ This will include ongoing marketing support for the Ranieri International dealers and follow-up service to ensure that any warranty claims and parts that are needed are supplied on a prompt basis.”

Ruelos, in turn, highlighted the importance of fostering familial relationships with dealers and customers, a principle deeply ingrained in Madison Bay Holdings’ ethos.

“I am pleased to have the opportunity to represent Ranieri International and work with the Ranieri family and our valued dealers,” said Ruelos. “Throughout my career, I have had the pleasure to work with many boat companies that have been family owned and operated as this is the foundation and legacy of the marine industry. The full range of Ranieri boats and inflatable boats are a tribute to the forty-eight years that the Ranieri family has dedicated to produce an exceptional series of boats that are designed and manufactured in Italy with quality and attention to detail that can only be produced by two generations of Italian boatbuilders. I have spent my lifetime providing boaters with boats and products that boaters can enjoy and share with their families and friends, and it is a pleasure to introduce the rare and exceptional Ranieri boats to customers throughout North America.”

To showcase the full range of Ranieri boats and inflatable boats, Madison Bay Holdings, along with the Ranieri family and management team, will be present at the upcoming Palm Beach Boat Show and the SoFlo Boat Show. Prospective dealers interested in joining the Ranieri network are encouraged to reach out to Ricardo Ruelos for further information at madisonbay22@gmail.com or (206) 290-0028.

Explore The Two Oceans 555 Power Catamaran: A Blend Of Luxury And Performance

Two Oceans 555 Power Catamaran is made to fit like a glove

Owners love to make a new boat their own, which isn’t always easy with production models where little more than fabric colors and wood finishes are up for personalization. However, that’s where the semi-custom nature of the recently launched Two Oceans 555 Power Catamaran comes in. With the emphasis on “custom” rather than on “semi,” this model from South Africa is tailored to each owner’s specific needs and desires.

Experience Luxury On Deck with the Two Oceans 555 Power Catamaran

There’s a lot to take in on deck including three separate social spots. The recessed forward cockpit, which is three steps down from the main deck, will be a great place to enjoy happy hour when swinging to anchor in the tropics as the sun blazes down on the transom. Here, a C-shaped dinette with a hi-lo table is the perfect spot to enjoy breakfast, play a game, or relax with a book. A raised sunpad flanks each side. This zone is accessed directly by an interior door or from the side decks.

Because of the extensive foredeck area, the aft cockpit is a bit understated. Rather than molded structures, this zone is outfitted with loose (but secured) furniture, and our boat had twin rattan loveseats with a coffee table in between. The optional hydraulic platform aft has chocks to carry the tender, or it can become an extra play space when lowered. Otherwise, the area is clean and simple. The sole provides access to the engine compartments on either side, and there are storage lockers along the glass door and window that lead to the interior. An optional docking station is to port, and the stairs to the flybridge are to starboard.

The flybridge is the star attraction on the 555 Power. Starting aft, there’s open deck space to put a chaise or two and work on a tan. You can also carry a PWC here that’s loaded with the optional crane. Moving forward, a dinette with a hi-lo table is to port and a long, curved companion seat is in the starboard forward corner. An optional galley module adds a summer kitchen with a refrigerator, sink, electric grill, and icemaker. It’s easy to see why people would gather up here more than in the aft cockpit.

The helm is on the centerline behind a windshield that protects only the console and seat. The angular dash is molded into the forward bulwark ahead which is another sunbed that’s accessed through a short bulkhead door. Most equipment at the helm is standard including a Stidd bench seat with armrests, twin multifunction displays, engine screens, autopilot control, and a spotlight. The wheel is offset slightly to port, behind and below the compass. One large wiper services the whole tempered glass windshield, and the hardtop covers most of the flybridge with the exception of
the aft deck and the grill area.

Discover the Tailored Interior of the Two Oceans 555 Power Catamaran

The standard layout includes three to four cabins and three to four heads with the master placed either on the main deck and forward (standard) or down in the hull. With the master down, the forward part of the main deck features a wet bar and sofa or a full interior helm. The boat we visited in Miami was reflective of very specific owner requirements which made it somewhat memorable. Our boat had the master down but had no helm or wet bar. Instead, there was a sofa to port and a dinette in the starboard corner, both flanking the watertight door to the forward cockpit. Some people prefer to separate where they eat from where they lounge, and the plan we saw accomplished this effectively.

The main social salon is aft with a C-shaped sofa for six to port and facing a galley island with a hidden TV on a lift. The L-shaped galley doesn’t skimp on storage lockers or Corian countertop space. On one end is a side-by-side refrigerator clad in wood to disguise its location. A four-burner electric cooktop, a double sink with garbage disposal, and a microwave are within steps of each other. A dishwasher,
wine fridge, and icemaker are options.

The galley, dinette and salon are all on the same level so moving about is easy with no tripping hazard anywhere. Ample direct and indirect lighting as well as large windows brighten the interior and air conditioning vents are integrated discreetly above the windows.

The staterooms in the hulls below are accessed via steep steps on both sides just ahead of the galley and salon. On our model, the master was to starboard and had a queen-size athwartships bed, a desk, and a large head. The toilet compartment with one sink is separate, but there are additional twin sinks near the shower stall. Two guest staterooms were in the opposite hull—one outfitted with two berths that can be joined together using a filler cushion.

Performance Insights of the Two Oceans 555 Power Catamaran

Standard power is provided by twin 370-hp Yanmar 8LV diesels, but the boat in Miami was upgraded to 550-hp Cummins QSB 6.7 engines. The exhaust is underwater, and the five-blade propellers are ensconced in tunnels with a sacrificial keel just ahead for protection. Top speed is 25-27 knots with a cruising speed of 18-19 knots at 2,600 rpm. At cruise, the 555 Power will burn 31 gph providing a range of 410-420 nautical miles with a small reserve.

The 555 Power has a high bridge deck clearance to reduce pounding into head seas and a spray rail to stay drier on deck. The engine compartments are cavernous and easily accessed. Large 24V alternators and twin Racor filters are at each engine. A 21.5 kW generator is to port but with an Integral power system to charge the bank of lithium house batteries, it will most likely see little use.

Options and Upgrades

There’s a long list of available options beyond the placement of the master suite and the choice of engine size. Comfort items include a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher, a Splendide washer and dryer, icemakers in the galley and on the flybridge, a Kenyon electric grill, air conditioning, a Glendinning Cable Master, a Steelhead davit on the upper deck, a KVH TracVision TV antenna, FLIR cameras, and more.

The Verdict

Two Oceans Marine Manufacturing builds a range of custom power catamarans, and the 555 Power is now the smallest and, therefore, the entry point into the line. Just like its siblings, the newest design can be made unique and aims to make owners feel special. Between technical items like the underbody design and the Integrel power system, and the highly personalized interior, the 555 Power will likely appeal to a clientele looking for exclusive experiences that fit each owner like a glove.

-by Zuzana Prochazka

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA w/ platform: 57′ 7″

Beam: 25′
Draft: 3′ 6″

Displacement (dry): 49,600 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 750/200 U.S. gals.

Power (standard): 2x Yanmar 8LV @ 370-hp

Contact: HMY Yachts/Two Oceans

(561) 228-4300

hmy.com

Ultimate Boating Guide: A Week in the Florida Keys

Decide whether to take the inside or outside route before you go.

It’s always smart to use a Florida Keys boating itinerary when you embark on a new journey. Having lived aboard our own 44-foot trawler and traveled the island chain for years, we believe that any time is terrific to cruise the Keys!

This time our journey takes us from lower Biscayne Bay to Marathon on Vaca Key. But we have a slight dilemma—inside or outside route?

Planning Your Florida Keys Boating Itinerary- Inside or Outside Route? How to Decide:

When planning your Keys Cruise, shallow-draft boats (less than 4 feet deep) can easily travel the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), also called the Inside or Bayside Route. Deeper-draft boats may opt for the Outside or Ocean Route via Hawk Channel. This channel is 15-20 feet deep and runs along the ocean side of the Keys between the land and the barrier reef to the southeast. The reef acts as a wave dampener to allow for serene ocean runs.

Wind and weather also help in your decision to travel inside versus outside. The islands do a good job of tamping down the fetch, so on a good day with northwest winds, the ocean route may be calm one mile offshore. But if the wind is southeasterly, you may change course to the inside route for a smoother ride.

Exploring the Inside Route: Island Hopping in the Keys

As part of our Florida Keys boating itinerary, let’s explore the Inside Route. The string of Florida Keys begins at Boca Chita, part of Biscayne National Park, with a very small but well-protected harbor. Although it offers no water, electricity, or trash collection, the natural beauty of the scrub and surrounding crystal-blue water is a terrific start to your journey. If you are lucky to arrive when the park rangers are present, you may be able to climb the 65-foot lighthouse. What a view!

Continuing the Inside Route from Biscayne Bay, you’ll meander into Card Sound with plenty of opportunities to anchor. A plow anchor is most effective in the Florida Keys because of the limestone seafloor, also called hard pan. If you’ve never anchored here, try it out for lunch and an afternoon snorkel. Once you’ve mastered setting the hook in the hard pan, your options for anchoring are almost endless. Please stay off the seagrass and anchor only in the white sandy bottom.

Jewfish Creek provides your first opportunity to stop overnight in a full-service marina. As you wind your way from the sound and into the mangrove-lined channel, you will be treated to birds of all colors and sizes soaring and swooping as they search for their dinner. They won’t have to look too hard as these shallow waters are chock-full of fish. You may even spy a bright-green iguana camouflaged in the sun-filtered leaves of the mangroves. Just south of the Belize Blue 65-foot bridge, you’ll find your choice of two marinas with power, fuel, and a pump-out. Tiki huts dot the beach where you can sip on a frozen coconut concoction while waiting for your dinner to arrive.

Heading south into Blackwood then Buttonwood sounds, experience the shallows of Florida Bay. Keep a sharp eye as you navigate to stay in the deepest water. Hidden in these gorgeous blues and greens are sandbars aplenty. Although the channels are well-marked, it’s a great idea to plan your course in advance and know what to expect. A good pair of binoculars and polarized sunglasses can help your crew to spot the buoys and day beacons needed to cross the banks with ease.

Tavernier offers a few more marinas in addition to a local grocery store or a night off for the chef at a shoreside restaurant. It’s always a fun adventure tasting fresh fish of the local cuisine.

As the channel opens to the unprotected bay, don’t fret! If the winds are not in your favor, you have an opportunity to cross over to the Outside Route just below Lower Matecumbe at Channel 5. Be cautious using any of the smaller creeks above Channel 5. The fixed bridges may not be tall enough for your boat, and the moving tide can create currents 5 knots or faster.

The Allure of the Outside Route: Ocean Adventures

If your draft is deeper than 4 feet or the weather forecast is spectacular, the Hawk Channel route might be a better option than the shallows of the Florida Bay. Leaving from Miami’s Government Cut, you can have an easy day that ends with choices: anchor, snag a mooring ball, or tie-up at a marina.

John Pennekamp State Park

Nestled on the oceanside of Key Largo is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Reserve a slip with power or snag a mooring ball with a short run to the dinghy dock. Dive or snorkel near Dry Rocks to see reef fish and the famous underwater Christ of the Abyss statue. Be attentive to the Sanctuary Preservation Areas marked with buoys so boaters can visit without damaging the reef as good stewards of our environment.

Still eager to explore but aren’t a diver? Rent a kayak to skirt the mangroves and enjoy the sultry surroundings. Take a tour on their glass bottom boat to see the reef without even getting wet.

If you need to shore up your land legs, you will find tropical hammocks with native flora and fauna to discover while you hike or picnic. Then take in a natural history exhibit and an amazing 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium in air-conditioned comfort.

Anchor Overnight in the Ocean

A few miles south, Rodriguez Key has an almost-360-degree anchoring option to provide a wind break. If you prefer to plug in, there are many marinas in Key Largo and Islamorada. Select a dock in a man-made canal, but be cautious making some of the 90-degree blind turns—one fondly referred to as Crash Corner. A preemptive security call on the VHF radio or a prolonged blast of your horn will alert other boaters before you proceed.

Ready to fish? The Florida Keys offer an abundance of species that will provide an adventure to remember. Be sure your fishing license is up-to-date and add a crawfish permit if you’re lobstering this season. Don’t forget the melted butter!

Final Destination: Marathon’s Coastal Charms

Nearing our final destination, remember the crossover option at Channel 5. If the southeast winds are creating a bumpy ocean ride, this wide channel allows you to hop back under the 65-foot bridge to the Inside ICW route. There are anchorages on each side of the bridge to wait out the weather from either direction. When the weather eases, mooring balls and marinas await. Boot Key Harbor, here we come!

New and legendary marinas with fabulous dining options are ready to sample. Walk, bike, or take the train to tour Pigeon Key on the Old 7-mile bridge. Peek over the historic railroad railings and see rays swimming below when tide is slack. Position yourself for an unobstructed view of sunset, and you might catch the elusive green flash.

Provisioning options for your return trip are plentiful in big-name grocery chains and locally owned small stores. Barracudas is our favorite fine-dining establishment that’s been around for decades, but your choices are endless here in paradise. Looking for Keys casual? Thatched roof waterside restaurants are a great place to sip chilled wine, cold beer, and umbrella drinks. Swim with the dolphins or visit the Turtle Hospital tomorrow.

Come enjoy all that pleasure boating has to offer because any time of year is terrific for cruising the Keys. Be sure to keep this Florida Keys boating itinerary handy for your next visit!

-by Chris Caldwell

Captain Chris

Captain Chris Caldwell is a USCG 100-ton Master and Cruising Coach. Consulting & Training Online or Onboard your boat anywhere! Build your cruising confidence with training videos, 2-day seminars filled with tips for the boater who loves learning. Questions? Chris@AskCaptainChris.com

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An Abacos Boating Itinerary: New Adventures Await

A Week in the Abacos

Plan your escape with the perfect Abacos boating itinerary for the busy boater who needs to get away.

It’s no surprise that during 2020 and 2021, there were record boat sales as folks turned to boating to create a COVID-free environment in a world of lockdowns and mask mandates. Investment portfolios were healthy, so for many, a family-size express cruiser was the perfect solution. It is spacious and self-contained so once you left the dock, apart from an occasional stop for fuel, you could discontinue all the health protocols in your luxurious personal bubble on the water. The itch to go further afield has been there since the early days, but initially there was no place to go as the world was locked down. Now that business is back in full swing, work is preventing you from getting away for more than a week.

So where do you go to get the most out of a week off? The Bahamas is the answer, but it’s a big country with more than 700 islands spread over an area larger than New England and New York combined. Bimini is the closest island, but a week there will seem long for most people. It’s better for a power weekend which makes it a good fallback in case you get delayed by weather. The Berry Islands are a possibility, but they lack variety. If your crew wants nightlife in addition to natural beauty, you will be hard-pressed to keep them happy, unless they believe that 9PM is boater’s midnight. Eleuthera or Exuma are simply too far away even for a 20- to 25-knot express cruiser to cover in a week, and the rest of the Bahamas would require flying to a boat if all you have are seven days.

For those with limited time, the Abacos are tantalizingly close and always receive high marks for the clarity of the water and the quality of the fishing. But more importantly, they offer the greatest variety of destinations as well as boasting a higher concentration of marinas than any other part of the country aside from Nassau. You might say the Abacos were made for boaters. The following is an itinerary to make the most of a week in paradise.

Embarking on the Adventure: Your Seven-Day Abacos Boating Itinerary

Day One: Arrival and Customs Clearance

With just a week, it is more efficient to clear customs as close as possible to where you want to spend your time. Grand Cay in the northwest corner of the Abacos is a favorite destination for families who enjoy world-class fishing and diving. Located approximately 100 miles from the east coast of Florida, it is easily within reach for most boats without refueling, and at express cruiser speeds, one can leave after breakfast and arrive well before dinner. There is a choice of marinas ranging from the well-established Rosie’s Place in Grand Cay to the open but still under construction revival of Walker’s Cay Marina in nearby Walker’s Cay. Since the same customs officer serves both locations, clearing in is a quick procedure and provided Click2Clear was completed correctly, you can be underway in less than 15 minutes. If you prefer to overnight ashore after a long day on the water, book a guest cottage at Rosie’s Place. Staying there offers a chance to meet some of the locals, many of whom are also dive and fishing guides, and dine at the well-known marina restaurant.

Day Two: You Abacos Boating Itinerary takes you into Grand Cay

Sleeping in is not an option as the local roosters start crowing long before sunrise. By daylight, the hard-working fishermen who live on Grand Cay are getting their gear ready for a day on the water. It’s a great time to walk the docks and strike up a conversation because they are never too busy to point out a few choice spots to a newcomer but know they will always direct you away from where they are working. Even without a recommendation, the reef apron north of Walker’s Cay National Park is a mere six miles away, and the large, healthy coral heads offer spectacular snorkeling. If shelling is more your speed, the beaches along Wells Bay and Baker’s Bay provide some good finds. And if simply sitting in the cockpit with your morning coffee to recover from the previous day’s travel sounds good, the buzz of activity in the harbor is a continuous reality show. For lunch, consider Etta J’s snack bar for cheap and cheerful Bahamian fare, and for dinner, try fresh seafood and some of Maxine’s famous conch fritters over at Ron’s Hot Spot, an eclectic place that combines pool tables with fine dining on handmade lace tablecloths. In a small town, you have to be versatile.

Day Three: The Wonders of Double Breasted Cays

Today will be a special treat as you make your way over to Double Breasted Cays, a collection of long narrow rocks only three nautical miles away from Grand Cay. Between the rocks are arguably the prettiest anchorages in the country. Whether you choose a spear or rod, the sportfishing around Double Breasted is first rate, and everything from pelagic species like mahi-mahi and tuna to snapper, grouper, hogfish, and conch are abundant making it easy for even a fishing novice to bring home dinner. After a full day on the reef, having a sundowner on the inner beach at Double Breasted is a perfect way to unwind before cooking the day’s catch.

Day Four: Journey to Green Turtle Cay

Following our Abacos boating itinerary, today’s destination is Green Turtle Cay (GTC); A 65-nautical mile jaunt southeast on the Little Bahama Bank. The trip is relatively weatherproof—provided winds remain under 25 knots, it is possible to make the trip on the relatively protected waters of the Little Bahama Bank, but if the weather isn’t to one’s taste, remaining within the well-protected confines of Double Breasted should not be a hardship. A mid-morning departure from Double Breasted will have you pulling into your choice of marina, mooring, or anchorage at GTC by mid-afternoon with plenty of time to wander the narrow streets of New Plymouth Settlement and take in the sights of its Loyalist heritage while discussing where to go for a pre-dinner sundowner. A popular spot is poolside at Pineapples Bar which is accessible by both boat and golf cart.

Discover Abaco Beach Resort: Have A Luxurious Bahamas’ Getaway

Day Five: Weather Check and Exploring Hope Town

Today you must assess if the weather supports going farther or if it’s time to start thinking about heading back toward Florida. In a perfect world, you can make it back to Florida in a single day from most locations in the Abacos, but a prudent mariner always includes some reserve to accommodate sudden forecast changes. If the weather permits continued travel, you can remain in GTC for another day to walk the gorgeous beaches with possibly a short side trip to No Name Cay to visit the swimming pigs of Abaco or head 25 nautical miles southeast to Hope Town and check out its iconic Elbow Cay Lighthouse that is nearing the completion of a full post-Dorian restoration.

Hope Town was ground zero when Hurricane Dorian battered Abaco in 2019, and while some classic locations such as the Hope Town Lodge were damaged beyond repair, what remains have been lovingly brought back to postcard perfection. With great marinas, well-protected moorings, and good anchorages just outside of the inner harbor, there are options to suit every taste. For example, it is possible to take a mooring ball in the inner harbor and call the Abaco Inn for its shuttle to bring you back for an elegant dinner overlooking the sea or dock you boat at the Firefly Resort for world-class cuisine.

Day Six: Sunset at Great Sale Cay

With your Abacos boating itinerary coming to a close, we head northwest to a couple of options to enjoy. First, there’s Great Sale Cay for a well-protected night on the hook to enjoy your last Bahamian sundowner of the trip. Or, if the conditions are settled, continue another 20 nautical miles to Mangrove Cay where there is less protection but the location makes for a shorter trip home the next day. Keep in mind that both spots are without cell coverage so be sure to check the weather before you’re in the vicinity of Fox Town on Little Abaco.

Day Seven: The Voyage Home

Head back home across the Gulf Stream unless you call the office as you pass the cell tower at West End, Grand Bahama, and—cough, cough—need a few more days to—cough, cough—recuperate from a nasty cold. The Bahamas is the perfect cure.

-by Addison Chan

DENISON YACHTING ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE LISTING OF 88-METER PROJECT PEGASUS

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL | November 2023: Denison is excited to debut Project PEGASUS, an 88-meter concept yacht designed by Jozeph Forakis. The project is exclusively available as a new construction opportunity with Denison. (All photo credits: Jozeph Forakis)

With reflective ‘Solar Wings’, Project PEGASUS is the world’s first 3D printed superyacht solar-electric/hydrogen hybrid with zero emissions and with a multi-level “Tree of Life” hydroponic garden providing fresh food and air purification. Pegasus was awarded the prestigious Elite Award “reserved for the world’s leading designers and design schemes” in the “Elite Concept Award” category for global exterior and interior combined. The project also won the International Yacht & Aviation Award in the “Interior Concept” category.

Jozeph Forakis commented: “I am thrilled to collaborate with Denison Yachting, one of the world’s most distinguished and respected brokerages, and Lateral Naval Architects, known for their real-world innovation, for project PEGASUS 88m. We couldn’t ask for a better foundational team to bring this dream to reality. Special thanks to Marisa Ronchi and Ottaviano Iacono of SuperyachtOne for their belief in the project and introduction to Alex Clarke at Denison. I dreamt of creating a yacht that honors nature by becoming virtually invisible. This desire drove us to develop a zero-emissions yacht that is ‘invisible’ in both design and environmental impact. PEGASUS 88m is an ambitious, yet achievable, vision for a sustainable future in yachting. All her core technologies are based on today’s reality. It’s only a matter of time before all yachts are made this way. Today, together with Denison and Lateral, we embark on a journey to accelerate towards that future. ‘A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.’”

Ottaviano Iacono, Founder of SuperyachtOne, affirmed this notion: “SuperyachtOne takes great pleasure in supporting visionary yacht projects that embody a harmonious blend of creativity, innovation, and eclecticism. PEGASUS stands as a remarkable concept, fueled by a resolute commitment to sustainability. The alliance between Denison Yachting and Jozeph Forakis on this project is a great satisfaction–it is going to be an exciting collaboration”.

James Roy, Managing Director of Lateral Naval Architects, stated: “Lateral is excited to collaborate with Forakis Design and Denison on the pioneering vision of the PEGASUS 88m design. The project presents an audacious challenge in the field of structural engineering, energy architecture, and manufacturing and we look forward to exploring the boundaries of feasibility, technology readiness, and how these can be accelerated.”

Denison superyacht broker Alex G. Clarke, who represents the project, shared his thoughts: “The yachting industry is filled with awe and wonder–being on the water always seems to bring a sense of calm and happiness to those around it. So it is always exciting to be linked to such a forward-thinking design concept like PEGASUS, which I feel pushes the boundaries of what is possible. To me, PEGASUS will inspire an owner or shipyard to build a vessel that will be one of those iconic yachts that will bring that ‘awe and wonder’ for years to come.”

“Not only is PEGASUS a ground-breaking design,” he continued, “but the smart technology surrounding it–from fuel cells to hydroponics providing fresh air and food, to zero emission and the use of glass and solar panels–is very inspiring to me. I do feel this is more than a concept and I would love to see a shipyard or owner get involved to help make her a reality. That’s our goal–to help make this project come to life.”

The 88m superyacht’s construction uses robotic 3D printing to create a mesh framework integrating both hull and superstructure. The result is an extraordinarily strong and lightweight structure that can be produced using less energy, material, waste, space, and time compared to conventional construction. The unique exterior design starts with a low, linear hull with a plumb bow and silver metallic finish, which blends chameleon-like with the water’s colors and movements. This foundation at the waterline supports the superstructure with multi-tiered, ephemeral glass wings that reflect the clouds and the sky. Like a shape-shifting vessel from the future, the elegant, lattice framework of her 3D-printed structure becomes visible through the reflective glass at certain angles and lighting conditions. The dramatic triangulated structure allows light to penetrate all levels of the interior while framing the remarkable views in all directions.

About Denison Yachting: Denison has long been a leader in the yachting industry with a rich family history dating back to 1948, and the start of Broward Marine in Fort Lauderdale. Today, the company provides complete yachting services worldwide, including superyacht sales, yacht charter, crew placement, and new construction. Denison operates out of over 20 waterfront offices with a team of 90+ licensed and bonded yacht brokers. Decades of experience provide a long-term perspective within the industry and a passion for yachting.

Subscribe to Denison Yachting on YouTube. Like Denison Yachting on Facebook. Follow on Twitter at @DenisonYachting and Instagram at @denisonyachting and @denison_superyachts.

PRESS OFFICE DENISON YACHTING / SANDPEOPLE COMMUNICATION

sandpeoplecommunication.com

Alexander Razinkov

Mobile +30 694 971 1091

WhatsApp/Telegram +7 909 167 2905

denison@sandpeoplecommunication.com

The Marlow 70E MKII: Experience Luxury and Performance at Sea

The Marlow 70E MKII yacht takes center stage and performs eloquently. It deserves a round of applause.

It’s not one thing that determines the boat you buy. There’s certainly a first impression, but it’s not until you get down to the brass tacks and see what she’s made of that gets the checklist started. The sea trial is an important test to feel how a boat behaves at sea. It’s also a time when seasoned boaters get a sense of whether the boat will fit into their lifestyle, including comfort, ease of operation, and dependability in the boat’s systems. When the cruising couple I spoke with recently told me of their decision to build a new Marlow 70E MKII, they added one more factor—the relationship with the builder.

“I really came away with a good feeling because of their flexibility and design as much as anything,” say the owners about their first meeting with Marlow Yachts. “Some of the other boats that are this style, you know, you can choose different carpet, you can choose the color of the fabric, but you couldn’t choose a lot of the things that we wanted.”

The really significant options were already incorporated in the MKII design, such as a large engine room and enclosed bridge. “I wanted the engine room I could walk around in, that was a big deal, and I wanted an enclosed glass command bridge, and I wanted a day head up there,” he adds. “They were willing to do all of that and more for us, and that went a long way with me.”

As Times Change; Transitioning to the Marlow 70E MKII.

The couple spoke with anonymity (and not all things can translate to print), but it was easy to see they were happy and loved the cruising lifestyle. “We’ve been boating most of our lives and when the kids were small, we had lake boats,” they both say at once. “Then, as the kids moved away and went out on their own, we bought our first ‘big’ boat (a forty-two-footer),” he continues.

Like many boat owners, they consider themselves going through the natural progression of stepping up to larger boats from the 42 to express cruisers in the 50-foot range and up to a 70-foot motoryacht. They enjoyed them all, and over time, they learned what features made their experiences special.

The decision to buy their first Marlow, a 49, wasn’t made lightly. The owners did their due diligence and looked at other builds, but on the recommendation of a friend, they reached out to Marlow and made their first appointment. It was during the sea trial that the owners realized how well the boat handled.

“I liked the ride. The visibility was good. The engine room was good, and the boat felt solid,” says the husband. “That was a lot of our decision-making to go for the first one. We went with a forty-nine because we didn’t want to get anything, at that time, too big…that we couldn’t take care of, keep clean, polish the stainless, and do all the work. That was important also. We were both still working quite a bit. You have a passion for the water and a love for boating, but you have to sometimes go to work to pay for that too.”

The owners were delighted with the features on their first Marlow and enjoyed it for five years. As the family grew, so did perspectives. “My son decided that he wanted to do more entertaining and more boating, so we decided to partner up,” says the dad. “So we ended up with something a little bigger.”

Step onto the Marlow 70 Explorer MKII

I have to admit when I first saw the owners’ new Marlow 70 Explorer MKII from the marina office, it had the classic Marlow profile, but there was something different. I couldn’t put my finger on it, but then realized it was the owners’ way of matching the metallic stone gray color of the hull with particular trim lines for each level above the deck. It wasn’t white on white, and with the added black mask window treatment, the yacht looked…well, slimmer.

“We did a lot of playing with the design on the computer for the look that we were looking for, a sleek, modern look for a trawler—a modern trawler, you might say,” says the husband.

And that carries on into the interior as well. “Typically, what you see in a lot of boats is a lot of wood,” he continues. “We used a lot of whites on the walls inside, which we felt brightened it up.” In addition, a lighter teak and ebony wood was used for the floors, a warm golden wood for the cabinetry and accent panels give the interior a soft and natural feel, and the white fabrics along with white with gray etched quartzite countertops articulates a clean, elegant style.

Then there are the windows. They’re wide, tall, and surround the boat on each deck. They not only allow light in to brighten the interior, even on cloudy days, but they also provide big views of the surroundings.

“I’m a big window person,” says the husband. “It’s not like a lot of these boats where you see glass everywhere, but it’s definitely different than traditional trawlers.” In the master suite, for example, the owners worked with Marlow to design the windows so when they sat on the side of the bed, they could look out and enjoy the view.

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Accent lighting is another aspect of brightening up the interior and it’s evident throughout the boat. It adds a unique effect to the modern trawler look the owners desired. Multiple options light up each room differently, but with the same purpose—to see or to create a mood, from under and around the beds, behind accent panels, around mirrors, lining hallways and stairs to the specially made headliner lighting in the salon and the enclosed bridge.

The owners saw a design of recessed strip lighting across a ceiling that diffused the light for a softer glow and asked if it could be done on the boat. “I just thought they were the coolest things,” says the missus. “I mean, just very modern, very sleek. It just made the room, and Marlow went to work.” The LED RGBW lights easily change color for the mood or for nighttime piloting. Even the engine room has custom RGW lighting.

Another modern feature that is rarely found on board is that all the heads have heated floors. The master bath also includes a steam shower. Marlow Yachts works with all owners to customize the boat to their liking. These owners travel with their cat, and Marlow was able to design and build into the accommodation deck a customized litter box. It has access doors from the hallway and from the master suite—luxurious living.

As You Like

The Marlow 70E MKII provides its owners and guests comfortable living quarters on every deck. Accommodations below offer a full-beam midship ensuite master, a VIP queen cabin forward, and cabins both to port and starboard. Storage cabinets line the hallway and include room for a full-size washer and dryer. There are also quarters for a captain accessible from the cockpit or garage door off the aft swim platform.

On the main deck, the owners opted for a huge galley with island forward. As I mentioned, experienced boaters usually know what they want and don’t want, and besides the large windows surrounding the galley, these owners decked it out with optional Sub-Zero refrigeration/freezer drawers, full-size dishwasher, induction cooktop, and convection oven. A large U-shaped settee with table for conversational dining sits aft and divides the galley from the salon. “It feels like a home,” says the missus.

The galley deck is raised two steps from the salon to provide more headroom to the forward accommodations below. Mounted on the backside of the galley dining settee is the flat-screen TV that conveniently opens to reveal cabinets for all the entertainment equipment.

The salon is a roomy living area and leads to the same-level cockpit that has an aft bench with table for alfresco dining. A small entertainment center with refrigeration is tucked to starboard while the stairs leading to the upper deck are to port. Walkaround access to the bow is protected with a solid tall rail as part of the Portuguese bridge. This version does not walk completely around and has two doors up front to reach the bow because the owners wanted to include a large lounge area for sunning and relaxing in the center. Remove the filler cushions and a table becomes available for numerous uses. The bow area also has plenty of room for anchor work, and the missus, with the help of a Yacht Controller, can control the boat while bringing up the anchor, which includes an anchor wash below the pulpit to wash away any mud—much easier than using a separate hose and hand signals directing the one at the helm.

Speaking of the helm, there’s a reason they call it the command bridge. On the Marlow 70E MKII, whoever sits in the chair truly has the conn. Besides the 360-degree view through the surrounding windows, experience led the owners to choose a navigational equipment package from Garmin. Most helms are customized with the gear desired by owners, and because they were planning to spend more time on board and cruise longer distances, the helm sports three 22-inch and two 12-inch multifunctional displays for charts, radar, sounder, cameras, FLIR and A/V controls. All systems have backups to the backups. One camera is located in the engine room to keep an eye on the power equipment, including the twin 1,150-hp Caterpillar C18 engines.

“This boat will run very comfortably at nineteen or twenty knots, and the fuel burn is not significant,” says the husband. “I did find out on a couple of occasions that it’s very smooth at that speed. And if you want to really get somewhere in a hurry, you can run twenty-five or twenty-six knots. Most boats that can typically get the kind of fuel burn at ten knots, typically won’t run that fast and get up and go if you need to go. In fact, we ran some hours at seventeen to eighteen knots, and the fuel burn was very minimal.”

Why The Marlow 70E MKII Is The Top Choice For Seasoned Boaters

For these owners, the Marlow 70E MKII new build was their perfect choice. The ability to work with the builder to make the modifications they knew would make them comfortable was key. “We’re able to live aboard longer periods of time, and certainly travel more and be able to have another couple or family on board and not feel like you’re on top of each other,” they both say in chorus.

They were happy knowing that they got that as well as the performance they were looking for all in one package. They looked at the boat with an experienced eye during the orientation before they actually took delivery. “We did our first trial run with the boat for a couple of days just to get a feel for it and we’re very happy…and that you can print.”

-by Steve Davis