Marine and Luxury Yachting News

McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 24, 2024

Dynamiq Debuts The New 52-Meter GTT 170 As Its New Flagsh...

Dynamiq reveals its newest superyacht. Founded in Monaco in 2014, Dynamiq has quickly established itself as a leader in crafting some of the world's most luxurious superyachts. With a lineup of yachts between 35 and 65 meters, Dynamiq combines advanced European marine technology and thoughtful design into every bespoke build. One of Dynamiq’s most iconic deliveries is the 35-meter GTT 115 developed in partnership with Studio F.A. Porsche, launched in 2017. Today, Dynamiq has unveiled the exterior and interior renderings of its 52-meter flagship, the GTT 170. Designed by Dobroserdov Design, its design features strong masculine lines with fewer curves and more angles. Stainless steel and carbon accents highlight the yacht’s new high-tech look. Inside, Milanese architect Claudio Pironi delivers a minimalist interior, styling marble and teak for a more natural look. The GTT 170 stands out as one of the most spacious yachts in its class, offering five guest staterooms and a luxury owner’s suite. Amentities include a dedicated spa zone complete with a sauna and gym, as well as a two-tiered beach club that maximizes outdoor space with folding bulwarks. The sundeck also offers a multifunctional space, including an outdoor cinema lounge for relaxing under the stars. Collaborating once again with Dutch naval architects Vripack, Dynamiq has designed a superyacht that is set for delivery in Spring 2027. GTT 170 will be shared at Dynamiq's stand #LC9 at the Monaco Yacht Show this year. View All Luxury Yachts For Sale Source: Dynamiq

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 13, 2024

ABT Sportsline x Marian Boats Reveal The New Auto-Inspire...

Welcome to Formula Aqua! When it comes to customizing and upgrading already performance-focused cars from Audi, Volkswagen, and Lamborghini, ABT Sportsline stands out as a world-renowned tuner backed by more than 125 years of innovation, strength, quality, and craftsmanship. While decades of incredibly powerful builds prove its worth on the tarmac, ABT is diversifying its lineup by taking to the open waters in partnership with the marine specialists at Marian Boats. Miles away from any DTM, 24H race, or Formula E event, ABT Sportsline and Marian Boats are proud to debut the M 800-R Electric as the newest automotive-inspired boat to make waves in the luxury marine industry. Built as part of a limited edition series of only 20 units, the M 800-R represents ultra-exclusivity while redefining luxury yachting with state-of-the-art design, technology, and performance. Aesthetically, ABT and Marian Boats used the Audi RS Q8 Signature Edition as inspiration for its sleek, gloss back hull design with polished chrome accents. Stepping aboard ABT's M 800-R feels more like hopping into a race-ready sports car configured with vibrant red upholstery and diamond-stitched anthracite Alcantara inserts. Carbon sports seats perfectly position the driver in front of ABT's sports steering wheel and full-digital display, surrounded by tons of exposed carbon fiber trim. Being a modern-day EV boat with all the bells and whistles, ABT and Marian equipped the M 800-R with innovative tech options like Keyless Go, which allows you to start the boat using an NFC chip card. The electric motor used to propel the M 800-R up to 52mph achieves a peak power of 450kW and a continuous power of 250kW. Charing is a breeze with a CCS charger that provides fast charging up to 150kW, with an additional "Boost Juicer" supporting charges up to 22kW. With a new era of electric yachting on the horizon, interested buyers can now book a test drive on the dedicated ABT x Marian M 800-R website. View all luxury yachts for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Yachts For Sale Source: ABT Sportsline

By Edward Jones – May 07, 2024

Luxury Awaits Aboard the 135-Foot Charter Yacht STAY SALTY

Luxurious charter yacht STAY SALTY, fresh from a multi-million dollar refit, will redefine luxury on the high seas. Guests can now book the 135-foot Horizon for a charter at $145,000 per week or $1.5 million per month. Defined by a sleek dove grey hull and clean, elegant lines, this yacht has been extensively refitted in 2024 by her devoted owner to ensure she is in perfect charter-ready condition. The interior is bright and modern, embellished with light wooden paneling and joinery on the walls and ceilings, and neutral-hued furniture finished with suede fabrics and soft leathers. She comfortably accommodates up to 12 guests in six staterooms. The master suite on the upper deck features its own private lounge area, a his-and-hers ensuite bathroom with a Jacuzzi tub, and a walk-in dressing room. The VIP stateroom on the main deck offers panoramic views and unrivaled comfort, while the guest accommodations include one double and two twin staterooms on the lower deck, each with contemporary ensuite shower rooms and access to the magnificent onboard entertainment system. Outdoor living is a key part of the experience on STAY SALTY. The yacht boasts the largest deck in its class, ideal for sun worshipers and entertaining. This incredibly social area comfortably hosts up to 20 guests. The aft deck features a covered dining area for 10 with a built-in BBQ and a widescreen TV for extending entertainment alfresco. An opulent lounge above provides shade for the aft deck, perfect for morning coffees or afternoon cocktails. The sundeck offers fantastic 360-degree views, with sun loungers and a bar area with sumptuous red-leather sofas, and includes its own alfresco dining area. With a dedicated crew of eight, STAY SALTY maintains an elevated level of luxury and leisure, ensuring the ultimate charter experience. Outfitted for a voyage of opulence and discovery, STAY SALTY is ready to provide a charter that offers guests the quiet solace of the open ocean or the thrills of a panoramic dinner party under the twilight. It is designed to be a yachting adventure filled with luxurious comforts and exquisite indulgences. For more details and to book your charter, please visit STAY SALTY Charter Details or click the button below. Visit Charter Website

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 25, 2024

Azimut Debuts Its Grande 44M Super Yacht at the 2024 Palm...

Azimut's Grande 44M stands out with its eco-friendly approach, innovative four-deck design, and breathtaking views, redefining yachting. Cementing its status as one of the largest and most luxurious yacht events in the world, the Palm Beach International Boat Show welcomes potential buyers and marine enthusiasts to sunny South Florida to see the latest and greatest in the industry. Always making waves each year with stunning new builds, Azimut Yachts was on-site to debut its all-new Grande 44M as the flagship of its fleet. The inspiration behind the Grande 44M focuses on Azimut's mission of combining technological innovation, visionary design, and environmental sustainability, redefining the way luxury super yachts are viewed and operate on the open seas. It's not every day you see a superyacht that challenges the status quo, but the Grande 44M does just that with its unique four-deck layout and a significant reduction in CO2 emissions. Azimut's new yacht release is a game-changer, introducing flowing lines and extra deck sets it apart while providing an onboard lifestyle that’s a step above what you’d typically expect. One of the most talked-about features is the Upper Deck. It’s a convertible space that can become an exclusive owner’s deck, offering stunning, barrier-free views of the ocean. With orders open and production slotted, the Azimut Grande 44M is ready to sail after its debut at the 2024 Palm Beach International Boat Show. View all luxury yachts currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY Discovery by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Yachts For Sale Source: Azimut Yachts

By Tyler Rampersaud – March 21, 2024

The 2024 Palm Beach International Boat Show Is On March 2...

West Palm Beach is showcasing the water’s finest. With the sparkling Atlantic Ocean coastline, West Palm Beach is one of the greatest destinations for yachting and enjoying marine luxury. Along the city’s iconic Flagler Drive, hundreds of incredible vessels from hundreds of brands are have descended on its waterways for the 2024 Palm Beach International Boat Show, taking place from March 21 to 24. With one of the most beautiful coastal locations in Florida and the country as a backdrop, attendees of the show will be treated to some of the most amazing boats and yachts on display, showcasing innovation, luxury, stunning design and engineering feats. Between the idyllic experience of spring in South Florida, and the unfathomable number of excellent marine creations on display, the 2024 Palm Beach International Boat Show is not the kind of event to miss, especially for luxury marine enthusiasts. As specialists in all things luxury, duPont REGISTRY Discovery is the place to look if you’re interested in setting sail in a luxury yacht or boat. If the excitement of the Palm Beach International Boat Show has you wanting to take to the ocean, look no further than some of our best marine listings for sale below, including some yachts that will be on display at the show, or you can click the button to view all boats and yachts for sale. View All Yachts For Sale "GYRFALCON" 78 Flybridge View Listing "STALLION" Pershing 9X View Listing X99 Fast View Listing "Seahawk" Westport 112 View Listing "Retriever" Benetti Classic 121 View Listing Lamborghini Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 View Listing BRABUS Shadow 300 View Listing THE WRIGHTWOOD 28 View Listing "My Spirit" Wave Piercer View Listing 37XP 17 View Listing Do you have a boat or yacht that you want to sell? With a marketplace that specializes in all things luxury, duPont REGISTRY Discovery is the perfect place to sell your luxury boat or yacht. Click below, and you’ll learn more about our various Marine Advertising options, and be one step closer to selling your luxury yacht. Learn More

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 11, 2024

Saxdor Yachts Set To Unveil Its 400 GTO At The Palm Beach...

Alongside other best-sellers, Saxdor Yachts will introduce the Saxdor 400 GTO. The luxury yachting industry is setting sail toward uncharted territories of growth and innovation, crafting breathtaking builds that redefine the essence of "homes away from home" as they navigate the boundless allure of the open ocean. Saxdor Yachts, Europe's renowned yacht builder, is set to make waves at the Palm Beach International Boat Show from March 21st to 24th, 2024. The event proves to be promising as Saxdor will be unveiling the Saxdor 400 GTO, its flagship model, for the first time on U.S. shores. Alongside the 400 GTO, Saxdor will feature best-sellers like the Saxdor 320 GTO, 320 GTC, and 270 GTO. The Saxdor 400 GTO is celebrated for its twin outboard rig, ensuring optimal performance and exceptional handling on the water. The unique design of the GTO and GTC versions, with wheelhouses extending to the full beam of the boat, maximizes interior space and offers direct access to expansive terraces. Saxdor's partnership with MarineMax, which operates over 60 retail stores across the U.S., has propelled the brand to success in the American market. This collaboration has played a pivotal role in Saxdor's rapid growth, with the brand's production for 2024 already sold out. The Finnish yacht maker's expansion, from a team of 30 to over 500 since 2020 and a 15-fold revenue increase, highlights its status as Europe's fastest-growing yacht brand. The Palm Beach Boat Show is an ideal platform for Saxdor Yachts to display its innovative designs and luxury yachting solutions to the American market. View all luxury yachts for sale on duPont REGISTRY Discovery by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Yachts For Sale Source: Saxdor Yachts

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 04, 2024

Tankoa Yachts Unveils Its 'Milano' Mega-Yacht As A Fusion...

The collaboration between Tankoa Yachts and Nauta Design introduces a luxury mega-yacht blending timeless design with cutting-edge technology. In the world of luxury yachting, the debut of a new project is always a monumental occasion. The latest marine masterpiece to capture the imagination of the yachting community is the 'Milano', a project that marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between the boutique shipyard Tankoa and the creative specialists at Nauta Design. The partnership is built on decades of mutual respect and professional admiration, set to redefine the standards of luxury mega-yachts. Tankoa Yachts has taken a bold step forward with the Milano, a 70-meter mega-yacht referred to as a top player in the industry and a symbol of the brand's vision for the future. According to Vincenzo Poerio, CEO of Tankoa, the Milano represents a fusion of cutting-edge technology and meticulous attention to detail, embodying the shipyard's pursuit of perfection. Drawing inspiration from Milan, a city known for elegance, aesthetic sensibility, and intelligent design, the Milano mega-yacht reflects these qualities throughout its exterior and interior. The yacht's design, characterized by clean, balanced lines and modern, refined aesthetics, aims to highlight a seamless connection with the sea and the horizon. At the heart of the Milano lies a stunning stern area created to captivate and entertain. It features a beach club that transforms into a private sea lounge, complete with a lounge area, convertible gym, sauna, massage room, and a magnificent swimming pool. The Milano also embraces sustainability with its diesel-electric propulsion system and the integration of methanol fuel cells, showcasing Tankoa's commitment to environmental awareness. As the Milano project sails towards realization, it stands out as the perfect example of luxury, innovation, and sustainability. View all luxury yachts currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY Discovery by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Yachts For Sale Source: Tankoa Yachts

By Tyler Rampersaud – February 14, 2024

Galeon Yachts Reveals The New Luxurious & Agile 435 GTO

This vessel promises entertainment and navigation, both with ease. Galeon Yachts boasts over 40 years of experience in crafting vessels that are stylish, luxurious, and highly capable, and the brand’s latest creation, the 435 GTO, may be one of the greatest examples of that expertise yet. With an enticing combination of sporting capabilities, entertaining ability, and luxurious accommodations, the Galeon 435 GTO is versatile and ready to rise to just about any occasion. With just under 45 feet in total length, the Galeon 435 GTO features two staterooms, a private open bow, and even the ability to fully open and close, with a sunroof, full-length windows, and a sliding aft door for an unparalleled ocean experience. However, along with these features tailored for lifestyle and entertainment, it also offers exhilarating performance, with a cruising speed of 40 mph and a top speed of 55 mph. Both staterooms boast luxurious upholstery and finishes, delivering on the promise of agility, dependability and luxury simultaneously, along with plenty of aft deck space for socialization and entertaining as well. With its American debut at the 2024 Miami International Boat Show, the new Galeon 435 GTO is an excellent new yacht that’s ready for any adventure. View All Yachts For Sale Image Source: Galeon Yachts

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 06, 2024

Tankoa Launches Its New T450 M/Y Go As A Milestone In Lux...

Discover the Tankoa T450 M/Y Go, a luxurious yacht with custom features, sleek design, and spacious suites. The luxury maritime world is making waves after having just witnessed the launch of the Tankoa T450 M/Y Go in Genoa, marking a significant milestone in yacht building. Designed by Giorgio M. Cassetta, this floating masterpiece caters to the refined tastes of its American owner. With its extravagant exterior and interior aesthetics, the T450 embodies Tankoa's dedication to craftsmanship and innovation on the open waters. Every inch of the T450 screams bespoke, from its extensive gym facility and fire pit on the upper deck to the master suite's prime location on the main deck. The yacht's steel and aluminum construction, under Cassetta's vision, ensures timeless beauty paired with bold, modern lines. The American client's vision has transformed the T450 into a haven of space and style, with the gross tonnage cleverly increased to 450GT to highlight its interior. This perfectly aligns with Claudio Corvino's vision of the T450 as a versatile platform for semi-custom yachts that don't compromise on luxury. Accommodations aboard the M/Y Go are nothing short of stunning, featuring an expansive master stateroom and five guest suites, all welcoming in natural light, thanks to expansive windows. Relaxation is taken seriously with a generous beach club, innovative pool features, and a sundeck equipped for social gatherings. As the T450 prepares to make its international debut, the maritime industry anticipates the unveiling of Tankoa's newest creation. View all luxury yachts currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY Discovery by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Yachts For Sale Source: Tankoa Yachts

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 18, 2024

Ultra-Luxury 145-Foot Conrad C144S Superyacht For Sale

The Award-Winning Conrad C144S Superyacht Now Available Through duPont REGISTRY Discovery.

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