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 – February 01, 2021

Best Yacht Charter Destinations 2021

Presented by Denison Yacht Sales - Goodbye 2020, hello 2021. Countries are welcoming back tourists as travel restrictions slowly ease up. One of the safest ways to travel is by luxury yacht charter. A highly trained crew will maintain rigorous health and safety standards on board creating a safe and socially distanced vacation. On top of that, thanks to our partnership with Tropic Ocean Airways, Denison charter guests and superyacht clients can access first-class options for arriving to and from their yacht or destination. This benefit lets you bypass crowds and long lines in airports. When you’re ready to travel again, consider one of these top 10 yacht charter destinations for 2021. Chartering a yacht in the Florida Keys means cruising along the Atlantic coast to Key Largo, Islamorada, and Key West. You’ll have the opportunity to stop in the best spots for snorkeling, fishing, and diving in the continental United States. Key Largo is known for having some of the best scuba diving in Florida, so ask your captain about booking a dive excursion during your charter. Once you arrive in Key West, take advantage of snorkeling through colorful coral reefs, watching incredible sunsets, and learning about Florida’s history. The laidback lifestyle of the Florida Keys makes it one of the best charter destinations in 2021. Best Florida Keys yacht charter: IL CAPO | 110′ Broward Marine Good news, The Bahamas are open to US citizens. Before arriving, each traveler must submit a Travel Health Visa Application that requires a negative RT PCR COVID-19 test result. A yacht charter to The Bahamas is one of the safest and most private ways to travel through the Caribbean. Fill your days with snorkeling, laying on quiet beaches, and enjoying cocktails on the sundeck of a luxury superyacht. Your charter itinerary may include visits to Norman’s Cay to snorkel around an airplane wreck, Compass Cay to swim with nurse sharks, and Big Majors Cay to feed the friendly wild pigs. If you want to extend your stay, Tropic Ocean Airways will deliver supplies, fly-in guests, or assist with crew rotations to and from your vessel to make your yacht charter more comfortable. Best Bahamas yacht charter: EXCELLENCE | 150’ Richmond 2010 The British Virgin Islands opened to tourists on December 1, 2020, making it a top yachting destination in 2021. Travelers must obtain a BVI Gateway Travel Authorisation Certificate prior to arrival and a negative RT PCR COVID-19 test. Once you arrive safe and sound, expect gorgeous weather and turquoise waters. Our Virgin Islands charter itinerary packs in amazing beaches, snorkeling spots, uninhabited cays, hiking trails, shops, and restaurants to visit by yacht. One of the best spots to visit in the BVI is Jost Van Dyke, where you can walk along the powder sand beaches and stop by Soggy Dollar Bar, home of the original Painkiller. Best BVI yacht charter: BUNDALONG | 80′ Sunreef 2019 Eager to trade big cities for charming coastal towns? Escape to New England. Summertime in the Northeast United States is simply beautiful, making it one of the top yachting destinations of 2021. A New England yacht charter may include stops in Newport to enjoy incredible seafood, Block Island to experience timeless architecture, or Nantucket to visit the whaling museum. You’ll get your fill of US history and quaint coastal towns packed into one yacht charter experience. Best New England yacht charter: KEFI | 105′ Sunseeker 2004 Flying into Mexico is less stressful for US tourists than other international destinations. Visitors are subject to temperature checks upon arrival and those showing symptoms may be asked to quarantine voluntarily. Fly into Cabo San Lucas and head straight for a superyacht charter to enjoy a luxurious and exclusive Mexico experience. You’ll have the opportunity to swim with exotic fish, eat fresh food, and sink your feet into white sand beaches. You’re bound to come back from a Mexico charter destination with a golden glow and relaxed state of mind. Best Mexico yacht charter: JERSEY GIRL LI | 65′ Irwin Yachts 1984 Croatia is open to foreign visitors. All travelers (regardless of citizenship) must complete an arrival form and present a negative RT PCR COVID-19 test result within 48 hours of arrival. US citizens are not required to quarantine. Croatia is one of the world’s best yachting playgrounds — the breathtaking coastline and blue-green colors of the Adriatic sea are hard to resist. Enjoy fine dining in Dubrovnik, swim in the crystal clear lakes of Mljet, and explore the fortresses of Hvar. A Croatia yacht charter gives you the best of the Dalmation Coast — excellent snorkeling, playtime with yacht toys, and a salty breeze. Best Croatia yacht charter: MERCURY | 164′ Amels 2001 Turks & Caicos is made up of more than 40 islands surrounded by brilliant blue water. The islands are relatively untouched thanks to a small population. A Turks & Caicos yacht charter is filled with tropical vegetation and nature, private land tours, whale watching, and dive adventures at The Wall. Upon arrival to Turks & Caicos, all visitors over 10 years old must show a negative test result taken in the past five days and apply for TCI travel authorization. Tourists must have insurance that covers COVID-19 related medical costs and fill out a travel authorization form prior to arrival by plane. Once you and your guests are clear to head to your superyacht, it’s all sun, smiles, and snorkeling for the next few days. Best Turks & Caicos yacht charter: MR.GV | 65′ Sea Ray 2016 An Alaskan yacht charter is a totally unique experience. The area is known for its diverse landscape of mountains and forests with abundant wildlife and small towns. On a yacht charter around Alaska, you’ll be able to experience whale watching, hike through national parks, and relax in hot springs. There’s no better way to see Alaska than by luxury yacht charter. It’s an incredibly scenic, isolated, and memorable vacation destination. Best Alaskan yacht charter: KAYANA | 121′ Vosper Thornycroft 2007 A travel bubble is set among Caribbean countries (CARICOM) to include Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia and the Grenadines. That means visitors traveling to one of those countries are not required to take COVID-19 tests or undergo quarantine to travel to countries within the Bubble. This makes it easy to island hop. The Leeward Islands are located between Puerto Rico and Dominica on the northeastern rim of the Caribbean Sea. Among the islands are a range of destinations including Antigua and Barbuda, St. Barths, and St. Kitts and Nevis. Each island destination is different, yet their close proximity and calm waters create perfect cruising grounds. A Leeward Islands yacht charter means you’ll get to experience white sand beaches, crystal clear water, and tropical wildlife. You’re sure to get plenty of sun, so don’t forget the sunscreen for this top yachting adventure in 2021. Best Leeward Islands yacht charter: BELLA VITA | 105′ CMN A true adventurer will be eager to charter a yacht in Central America, and Costa Rica is one of the best destinations. Visitors must complete an online Health Pass 48 hours prior to travel to Costa Rica. A negative PCR test is not required upon entry, but tourists must provide proof of a medical insurance policy to cover any COVID-19 related medical treatment. Costa Rica is a rugged, rainforested country filled with ancient ruins, excellent surfing, and active volcanoes. Enjoy sun, adventure, and nature wrapped into one Costa Rica yacht charter. Best Costa Rica yacht charter: SUPER | 100′ Azimut 2001 If you’re eager to travel somewhere during 2021, do it in the safety, style, and privacy of a luxury yacht charter. When you charter a yacht to or at a foreign destination with Denison Yachting, the crew and charter management will help make your vacation as seamless as possible by helping you navigate customs and immigration upon arrival. Contact a Denison charter broker to book your next vacation. They’ll work with you to make it the safest possible yacht charter for you and your guests.

By Edward Jones – January 28, 2021

See Feadship's Project 819 and its Extremely Precise Trip...

To bring a yacht out to sea from a shipyard, the process is sometimes very meticulous and precise. Take Feadship's Project 819 (a.k.a. Project Galina) and its trip out to open water. The process can be seen in multiple photos uploaded to the shipyard's Facebook page in the gallery below. This kind of process takes a lot of planning, precision down to the inch, concentration and a boatload of teamwork. As for the yacht itself, it measures in at 235 feet long but its beam is unknown. We do know that it has four decks, but the exact number of rooms is also unknown. Take a look at the images down below and also check out the video of Project 819's launch. Source: Feadship/Facebook

By Edward Jones – January 26, 2021

The Electric Hermes Speedster E is a Porsche-Inspired Run...

Named after the messenger of the Greek gods, the Hermes Speedster E by Seven Seas Yachts is an excellent runabout powered by electricity. As the Hermes Speedster E moves through the water, it's electric motor put in work to allow it to glide gracefully without making a sound. Like its namesake, the Hermes Speedster E is quite the quick one-- with 30kWh of power, the Hermes Speedster E can hit a max speed of 45 mph. What's more, the styling of this boat is magnificent. Inspired by the classic Porsche 356, the Hermes Speedster E has sleek lines that accentuate its ability to gracefully cruise through waterways. Seven Seas Yachts have also released their new Venus Speedster which is just as elegant as the Hermes Speedster E. Source: Hermes-Craft.com

By Edward Jones – January 26, 2021

Custom Midnight Express & Pardo Yacht by Prestige Marine ...

Miami is the perfect place to see yachts and boats of all kinds go wild. If you recently spotted two insanely stylish black boats running wild off the coast of Miami, then you probably saw Brett David, CEO of Prestige Imports, and his family. They were behind the wheel of two vessels, a Midnight Express 43′ Open and Pardo 50. Each of these boats is actually personally owned by Brett and each of them has been meticulously customized by BADDesign & Prestige Marine. This new company aims to bring the customization options typically found in the automotive world to boats and yachts. If you want a good look at just how expansive their abilities are, look no further than these two creations. What’s more, each of these watercraft represents two different boating worlds. On one hand, you have the 2021 Midnight Express 43′ Open, which happens to be one of the first full carbon fiber hull speed machines with Quint Mercury 450R engines on the back with some of the most modern technology to date such as a SeaKeeper stabilizer, exposed Carbon elements, LED Lights & underwater cameras! Let’s not forget, remote control driving as well. This speed demon has reached speeds up to 94MPH during testing. No special motor ECU flashing or gimmicks! On the other, you have a luxurious yacht made in Italy manufactured by Pardo Yachts called the Pardo 50 that has room to entertain a family with 2 full staterooms, separate crew cabins, tender garage, hydraulic swim platform and more on its expansive deck. While they may be a world apart in terms of purpose, they have both been given one-of-a-kind touches thanks to BADDesign & Prestige Marine. Prestige Marine was driven by the passion of Brett David and created just a few years ago, representing brands like Pardo Yachts, Iguana Yachts, Midnight Express, VanDutch & More. Check them both out in the video up above and also be sure to check out Iguana Yacht’s latest amphibious creation and Prestige Marine’s inventory by clicking the button below. View Prestige Marine Inventory

By Edward Jones – January 21, 2021

Iguana Yacht Reveals the X Fisher Amphibious Boat

Iguana Yachts, the maker of luxurious amphibious boats, has just announced their new model that's designed for fishing enthusiasts. The new X Fisher is situated within Iguana Yachts' X Line and features their groundbreaking amphibious tracks that allow the boat to travel on land. This new boat comes loaded with rod holders, a livewell, an insulated fish box with macerator, and lateral rod storage. Powering the X Fisher is a twin-outboard-engine setup that produces 300 horsepower which allows it to travel up to 48 knots. It can also comfortably fit 12 people on board. To learn more, be sure to contact Prestige Marine for further details about Iguana Yachts.

By Edward Jones – January 20, 2021

Narke GT45 is the World's First Electric Jet Ski

If fueling up your jet ski has become too laborious and annoying, you have to check out the Narke GT95. Why? This new personal watercraft is the world's first electric jet ski that's created with serial production in mind. With 50kW of power, the GT95 can hit an electronically-limited maximum speed of 30 knots (34.5 mph) and it also has a range of 2 hours. When the batteries are depleted, they can charge back up to 80% in less than 2 hours with the quick charge option. As for its design, it comes with a carbon fiber hull that has room for three passengers. Onboard, there's a screen that displays navigation and weather via a Bluetooth connection to the rider's phone. As we move further into the future, electronic watercraft will become more common and the Narke GT95 is a perfect example of that. Also check out the Drakkar S, an autonomous, solar-powered Viking yacht concept. Source: VoltaYachts.com

By Edward Jones – January 20, 2021

Autonomous Yacht Design "Drakkar S" is a Futuristic Vikin...

The yacht design studio of Max Zhivov has posted on Instagram their latest design that combines the historic with the futuristic. The new Drakkar S concept was inspired by Scandinavian culture and Viking ships, which is apparent by the shape and the protruding bow design. Unlike those historic ships, the Drakkar S is completely autonomous. Via an app, a destination can be picked for the yacht to travel to. What's more, it can also approach berths at the perfect distance for mooring, taking surface and underwater obstacles into account. But the brilliance of the Drakkar S doesn't end there. If you've noticed, the top of the concept houses solar panels and that's because it's an electric boat. While this design remains a concept now, we would love to see it actually be created. In the meantime, be sure to check out the $2.25 million Sea Force 510 Center Console. Source: @good_de_max/Instagram

By Edward Jones – January 19, 2021

Rossinavi Launches the 70m Polaris Superyacht, Their Larg...

Rossinavi has launched their largest superyacht yet, Polaris. This 70-meter (229'8") superyacht has made its splashdown after four years of construction. One of its most interesting abilities is that it was created to be able to navigate extreme ice conditions, something you don't see often in luxurious superyachts. As for the inside, it can sleep up to 12 guests, as well as a crew of 17. Other features include a dedicated owner's deck replete with a waterfall and an infinity pool with a waterfall. There is a lot more to discover within the Polaris, so be sure to stay with us as we'll update you when and if Rossinavi drops a more detailed video. In the meantime, you can check out Ocean One, a 351-foot superyacht concept. " width="680">

By Edward Jones – January 14, 2021

Miami Boat and Yacht Shows Combine Into One Event

NNMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) has announced that this year's Miami International Boat Show, Miami Yacht Show and Superyacht Miami will also be combined into one event. Happening from February 16-20, 2021, this event will be called the Miami International Boat Show but it will have even more participating businesses than ever before. In-water activities will occur at Sea Isle Marina, One Herald Plaza and Island Garden Deep Harbour on Watson Island while the on-land activities will be found at the Miami Beach Convention Center. NMMA notes that there will be a live concert series, expanded educational offering, digital component, and Miami Dealer Dale (February 14-15). It's going to be an absolutely incredible event so be sure to check it out. While you wait for the event, you can check out all of our latest yacht and boat news. For 80 years, the Miami International Boat Show has served as the recreational boating industry’s flagship event and a prized platform to showcase world-class products and innovations to nearly 100,000 people across the globe. With NMMA’s new partnership with Informa Markets, together, we will take the show to the next level and deliver an unforgettable experience for our members, attendees, exhibitors, and the local community for decades to come,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, NMMA president. “Our industry and organization are incredibly grateful to the City of Miami for providing a home for our show these last five years at the Miami Marine Stadium and Park, and we look forward to bringing this exciting new event to both Downtown Miami and Miami Beach.” Source: NMMA

By Andrew Nabors – January 12, 2021

Lazzarini Design Project Pagurus Is An Amphibian "Crabmaran"

Running aground is inevitable, so if you are tired of buying new props and fixing fiberglass, the Lazzarini Design Project Pagurus is an amphibian "Crabmaran". That's right, once your fun on the sea is over, it can crawl onto the beach to deploy your supercar. Each hull has a conventional propeller, but the real treat is a rotating Archimedes' screw. Water friction causes the screw to spin, which will recharge the yacht's batteries while sailing. Power can also be harvested from the sun via solar panels. As for the inside, the layouts of the Crabmaran allow either hull to include bedrooms, a kitchen and a bathroom. In order to travel between the hulls, there's a steel bridge structure that connects the two. Just like their other inspirations, Pagurus combines Italian design with a glimpse of the future. If you need something more traditional, these rugged yet luxurious center consoles mean you can have it all. " width="680"> Image (C) Lazzarini Design Studio

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