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 Edward Jones – May 04, 2021

Tankoa Yachts Has Sold the First 190-foot T580 Superyacht

The very first T580 superyacht has been sold and we can't wait to see the completed vessel. Tankoa Yachts has announced the first sale of the new T580 superyacht, which is a new addition to the Italian shipyard's fleet. She will be built with a steel hull and aluminum superstructures and will have a length of 58-meters (190-feet). As for the yacht's design, the exterior was penned by Francesco Paszkowski Design and the interior by Francesco Paszkowski Design in collaboration with Margherita Casprini. Tankoa Yachts notes that the T580 will be a "World Wide Explorer." That means that she will not only look sporty, but also be able to have a massive range of 5,000 nautical miles. Other features includes a helipad, six cabins (not including crew cabins), large beach club and a garage that can hold two tenders. Construction on Tankoa Yacht' first T580 will start in July 2021 and delivery is expected in April 2024. View More Yacht News Source: Tankoa Yachts

By Edward Jones – May 03, 2021

The PHI Phantom by Alia Yachts is a 118-foot Support Yacht

A support vessel bigger than most yachts. The PHI Project is most certainly one of the most exciting ventures we've seen from the marine world. It involves multiple vessels, including the PHI superyacht and its support vessel/yacht, the PHI Phantom. Now, Alia Yachts has released new information, as well as photos and a video of PHI Phantom support vessel being taxied out of its building halls and into the water. The purpose of PHI Phantom is to be a support vessel that will carry tenders and toys that the "mothership" cannot stow thanks to a 150 square-meter aft deck. This includes the 14m gentleman's tender being built at Spirit Yachts and the Axopar 37 Suntop. While PHI Phantom does have a job to do, that doesn't mean it doesn't come with its fair share of luxury. The interior and exterior design reflects elements of the mothership, with the matte blue-gray paint matching perfectly. Inside are berths for a crew of up to six but Alia Yachts notes that she can be handled by just three. One of the cabins can also be used as a guest cabin when the full crew of six is not on board. PHI Phantom is currently undergoing final sea trials and will be delivered to the owner in June. Source: Alia Yachts

By Edward Jones – April 29, 2021

Walk Aboard the $6 Million 87' Feadship 'Patriot' Yacht

Not your average yacht. Owning a Feadship is a true goal for many in life. Their ability to craft the most exquisite yachts with an impeccable eye for detail, luxury and comfort. Even vessels crafted by Feadship decades ago still hold up among modern yachts. Take the 87' Feadship 1984 'Patriot' that's currently for sale through Denison Yacht Sales. She's considered a "Gentleman's Sport Yacht" and offers a bounty of features and amenities. What's more, she's also undergone an extensive refit that included a remodeled interior. Features of 'Patriot' include the three staterooms, three heads, large custom galley, custom setee, Teak deck, fishing equipment and so much more. Be sure to watch the video up above to get a full walkthrough of 'Patriot' and click the button below to learn even more. Learn More

By Edward Jones – April 28, 2021

184-foot Militaristic OPV 56 Superyacht Gets New Images a...

Built with "functionalism" in its heart. Antonini Navi has released new images and details of their military-inspired OPV 56 under 500GT superyacht. This exquisite superyacht was designed to be properly functional, meaning that every feature of the yacht is truly necessary and serves a direct purpose. This was the goal of yacht designer Fulvio de Simoni, who started his career back in the 1970s. "At sea, simplicity is an added value: seagoing performance, easy-to-use onboard spaces and services, and rational construction are qualities that experienced owners cannot fail to appreciate,” explains de Simoni. Other notable details include the aluminum hull and superstructure, 183.7-foot length, 29.5 max beam, and one production slot for the OPV 56 has been booked. However, Antonini Navi notes that they have the possibility to have a second slot available right now. They note that this project is completely customizable and the production time from the signing of the contract to delivery is 26 months. For more information, be sure to visit AntoniniNavi.com. Source: Antonini Navi

Benetti FB274 MY Zazou launch ceremony 1

By Edward Jones – April 23, 2021

Benetti Launches the 213-foot "Zazou" Full Custom Superyacht

At 65-meters long (around 213-feet), this superyacht is packed with insane amenities. Benetti has just announced the launching of M/Y "Zazou," a 65-meter superyacht that's as custom as they come. The owner is actually a repeat customer of Benetti and he made a very specific request to have the hull painted in a Carinthia blue color. Inside are an insane amount of amenities that will surprise you. This includes the 6 double cabins that can accommodate up to 12 guests, a gym, two cinema areas, infinity pool, sky lounge, massage room, and, of course, a captain's cabin. Benetti notes that the 20 meters long Sun Deck is one of the largest in its category. One final fact that we'll throw in is that Zazou also has an elevator that connects the bridges between the lower and upper deck. Incredible. Benetti says that the yacht will be delivered to her owner this summer. Source: BenettiYachts.it

By Edward Jones – April 20, 2021

Walkthrough The 117-foot Crescent Superyacht

A superyacht with elegant style and bountiful options for entertaining. At a length o 117-feet, this 2020 Crescent 117 is filled with incredible amenities that make it perfect for entertaining lounging and dining. In Denison Yacht Sales' latest walkthrough video, Ari Sherr takes us through this immaculate superyacht and shows off each and every one of its amenities and features. With five guest staterooms, each with their own en-suite bath, and a full-beam master stateroom, the Crescent 117 can accommodate up to ten guests. But those accommodations aren't limited to just guest rooms as she also offers spacious areas with bountiful seating. This includes the salon that takes up the full 24-foot beam of the yacht. Ten windows surround the salon, providing gorgeous views to those resting on the L-shaped couches. Other areas made for entertaining include the formal dining room, jacuzzi, breakfast nook, secluded sun pads on the bow, sunning deck with a jacuzzi and an oversized aft platform. Honestly, there's so much more to be seen that we haven't talked about, so be sure to watch the video above and click the button below to view its listing on Denison Yacht Sales' website. Learn More

By Edward Jones – April 19, 2021

Vripack Announces Project 406, The World's Largest Sportf...

The ultimate sportfisher has just been announced. Vripack has just announced that they will be creating Project 406, a new vessel that's set to be the world's largest sportfish yacht. Containing six decks and a hull measuring 171ft in length, this new sportfish is going to mind-blowing. As you can see from the images, there will be plenty of space for both relaxing and fishing. Just check out the aft fishing area which has a fighting chair, plenty of rod holders, and storage for whatever is brought up. Building a sportfish superyacht that holds all of these features isn't a simple task and that's why Royal Huisman will be in charge of the all-aluminum construction. As for the overall interior and exterior design, that's being handled by Vripack. “Project 406 is a true sportfisher, designed for a private owner who is serious about big game fishing,” explains Bart M. Bouwhuis, Co-Creative Director at Vripack. “We have undertaken all elements of the design underpinned by our naval architectural expertise, and that means zero compromise. As the largest sportfisher in the world, this 499 GT full aluminium build will be hugely technologically challenging. We are truly delighted to work with a world-class shipyard such as Royal Huisman to bring this iconic creation to life.” Project 406 is expected to be completed in 2023. More Yacht News Source: Vripack.com

By Edward Jones – April 15, 2021

9 Yacht Charters You Can Book For Under $100K

Presented by Denison Yacht Sales - Yachting is experiencing an uptick in charters booked both throughout the pandemic and entering summer 2021. Travelers are itching for a new and exhilarating experience while enjoying privacy and luxury amenities. Planning your next getaway can be a hassle, but when you book a yacht charter through Denison, it’s as easy as calling a charter broker and describing your ideal vacation. You choose the perfect boat and destination, request a tasty menu, and create an adventurous itinerary. We make it happen. Upgrade your next vacation to an exceptional experience; here are 9 yacht charters you can book for under $100K. 1. ODIN | 126’ Trinity 2001 ODIN is the god of war and a 126-foot Trinity yacht that’s available for charter for under $100K. Claudette Bonville designed her unmistakable exterior, and the yacht’s interior is contemporary and stylish with intimate staterooms. While the salon is an elegant space for catching up with friends or family, it’s all about the sundeck. Catch some rays on the top of the yacht, which boasts plenty of seating, casual dining area, wet bar, and barbeque grill. When it’s time to cool off, dive into the water from the yacht’s swim platform and enjoy ODIN’s toys, including wave runners, paddleboards, floats, and towables. From $70,000 per week Learn More 2. SWEET EMOCEAN | 116’ Azimut 2009 We already know 5 reasons to charter SWEET EMOCEAN, but did you know she’s available for charter under $100K? This 116-foot Azimut superyacht turns heads thanks to an extensive interior and exterior refit. Amenities such as a jacuzzi, wet bar, gym, toys, tender, and spacious accommodations are sure to make you and your guests feel comfortable and relaxed during the entire vacation. Not many yacht charters offer a gym, but SWEET EMOCEAN has a space to lift weights, do yoga, or tackle cardio. And when it’s time to refuel, enjoy a menu that includes conch fritters with a chili mayonnaise dip, skirt steak with chimi churi sauce, eggplant parmigiana, and veal marsala with mushrooms and thyme. Count us in. From $70,000 per week Learn More 3. RENAISSANCE | 116’ Hargrave 2016 Travel like royalty on RENAISSANCE, a 116-foot Hargrave. This yacht charter can accommodate 10 guests in 5 king-berth suites. Enjoy a late evening cruise from the flybridge jacuzzi or take the 27-foot Chris Craft tender out for a zip. RENAISSANCE is designed to pamper your family or guests and is equipped with a wide array of toys. This yacht also offers dive charters. From $85,000 per week Learn More 4. SCOTT FREE | 114’ President 2008 Sail away from your obligations on SCOTT FREE, a 114’ President yacht. She offers an awesome charter opportunity to explore the Florida Keys and the Bahamas and is one of the few boats available for charter in the Great Lakes. This luxury yacht charter has the best toys and amenities for a memorable vacation. Ask the crew to organize a movie night on the outdoor movie projector screen or plan a fishing excursion on the 27-foot tender. SCOTT FREE has 4 spacious staterooms and an extensive exterior with shaded and sunning areas. Whether you want to cruise the Bahamian waters or visit Mackinac Island in the Great Lakes, this yacht will take you there in style and for under $100K. From $49,500 per week Learn more 5. GIOIA | 108’ Custom Line 2018 New to fleet, GIOIA, is a 108-foot Custom Line that’s a modern, sleek, and stylish yacht charter. She was designed by Zucon International Design and boasts a jaw-dropping interior design by Ferretti. This luxury yacht charter can accommodate 10 guests in 5 cabins. She features an on-deck full-beam master stateroom with full custom his and hers master head, plus 4 additional staterooms below. We bet you’ll spend most of your vacation enjoying GIOIA’s 3 decks, including a custom-designed sundeck with a Jacuzzi, bar, and drop-down TV. She also has a transformer stern garage with a beach club so you can enjoy her toys and tender. From $82,000 per week Learn More 6. ANDIAMO! | 105’ Azimut ANDIAMO! Let’s go! Book this 105-foot Azimut for a luxury yacht charter in New England or the Bahamas. She offers a modern, open design with an impressive interior volume to help you feel at home on the water. Her 4 spacious staterooms include ensuite amenities, such as a walk-in spa with an oversized rain shower and vertical massage panels, so that you can enjoy the best comforts during a yacht charter. Her exterior deck lounges are perfect for sunbathing, dining, or sipping cocktails while cruising the harbors of Martha’s Vineyard or anchored in the Caribbean. From $50,000 per week Learn More 7. PRIVEE | 95’ Sunseeker Cruise into the Caribbean islands on PRIVEE, a sleek-looking yacht that’s loaded with toys and a super fun crew. Throw a dance party on this yacht’s spacious beach club — themed lighting and a monster sound system will dictate the mood. A retractable roof opens up the main deck for guests to enjoy the sun while underway. PRIVEE features deluxe interior accommodations that sleep 8 guests in 4 staterooms. This yacht charter is ideal for a luxury getaway to the Bahamas for under $100K. From $40,000 per week Learn More 8. BUNDALONG | 80’ Sunreef 2019 Picture diving into the clear blue waters of the Caribbean, only to pop up to look at a brand new 80-foot Sunreef yacht that’s designed and built for bluewater sailing. BUNDALONG is your ticket to an unforgettable Caribbean yacht charter, and she’s available to book for under $100K. This luxury catamaran can accommodate up to 10 guests and includes plenty of amenities to facilitate an incredible experience with friends and family. Host a party with a complete, professional DJ setup or indulge in a foodie escape thanks to a talented onboard chef who knows how to make the ultimate breakfast spread. BUNDALONG has an upscale Hamptons-style beach house vibe that is both relaxing and luxurious. This yacht charter is perfect for couples, families, and friends with enough amenities to make sure there’s never a dull moment. From $67,000 per week Learn More 9. ARABELLA | 157′ Palmer Johnson 1983 Call 35 of your closest friends + family onboard ARABELLA, a 157-foot Palmer Johnson. She’s a true sailing yacht that’s perfect for those who crave a seaworthy adventure in the Caribbean or along the east coast. ARABELLA can sleep 36 guests, and at $60,000 for a one-week charter, that’s a pretty good deal. This yacht is maintained to the highest standards and loaded with the best toys for a comfortable and memorable yacht charter. Whether you’re looking to escape to New England, the Bahamas, or Florida, these 9 yacht charters will get you there in style and comfort. Contact your charter broker to book your next vacation for under $100K. From $60,000 per week Learn More

By Edward Jones – April 09, 2021

Feadship's 180-foot Somnium Superyacht is Close to Being ...

This superyacht represent a family's dream come true. Feadship's latest vessel, Somnium, is just about ready to be delivered to its owner as the shipyard completes final finishing and sea trials. The owner picked Feadship as they were able to meet his bespoke needs without compromising quality. This yacht was designed to take three generations of the owner's family members on world cruises and it most certainly looks up to the task. Feadship notes that the owner poured his heart and soul into this project, participating in the various phases and even making bi-weekly appearances to enjoy a beer with the build team on Fridays. We can surely say that the owner must be more than happy with the result because Somnium looks incredible. The name itself is Latin for "dream" and it sure looks like a dream come true. With a length of 55 meters (about 180 feet), there are plenty of amenities and facilities for passengers of all ages. This includes the vast outside deck, exclusive lounge area on the foredeck, pool with an adjustable floor, Jacuzzi island on the sun deck, gymnasium, full-beam owner's stateroom, four spacious guest suites and so much more that has yet to be revealed. Be sure to stay with us for more information regarding Somnium as it's released. In the meantime, check out all of our latest yacht and boat news. Source: Feadship

By Edward Jones – April 08, 2021

50m Heesen Arkadia Superyacht Delivered

A massive superyacht is now at home thanks to Denison Yachting. Back in October 2020, Denison Yachting announced the sale of Project Trion from Heesen. This sale was quite exciting as Project Triton is a new vessel that was built to be a true blue-water yacht that can entertain all of its guests in many ways. Now, months later, Denison Yachting has announced that the delivery of the vessel is now complete but she now bears the name "Arkadia." David Johnson of Denison Yachting was responsible for the sale, introducing the client to Thom Conboy of Heesen USA and worked with the sales team at the shipyard in Oss, Netherlands to ensure everything went smoothly. Johnson had this to say regarding the sale and delivery: “I would like to thank Heesen for their support and coordination in making this project happen. The yard worked tirelessly to ensure the yacht is ready for the owners and their family to enjoy cruising this summer. A special thanks also to the owners’ team on board who have been an integral part of the success of this project. This is the most recent new construction sale for Denison Yachting, and we are excited to continue working closely with Heesen to facilitate the sale of future new builds.” Arkadia is the first of five yachts scheduled for delivery by Heesen this year, so be sure to check back for more delivery news. In the meantime, click the button below to see the incredible vessels Denison Yachting has to offer. Visit DenisonYachtSales.com Source: DenisonYachtSales.com

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