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 12, 2021

Walkthrough the $4.5 Million Sanlorenzo SL86 Yacht 'Stae'

This yacht is actually the lowest priced late model Sanlorenzo SL86 on the market. In Denison Yachting's latest walkthrough video, we're taken through the gorgeous 86' Sanlrenzo 'Stae'. This late model Sanlorenzo is looks incredible both inside and out. The exterior of the yacht features an off-white, gray and matte-black color scheme that is undeniably stylish. When taken inside Stae, you'll be transported into a world of modern luxury that has been beautifully curated. Features like the hidden TVs, angular furniture, breathtaking views of the outside and more all combine to create an interior that you would not want to leave. Stae features one master cabin, one VIP cabin, two guest cabins, separate crew accommodations and five heads. Her cruising speed is near 30 knots while a fast yet comfortable cruise speed is 20 knots. These speeds are made possible thanks to the twin MTU 12V2000 Series M94 1,947 horsepower engines. There's truly so much to uncover aboard Stae, so be sure to watch the video above and click the button below to learn even more. View Listing Source: Denison Yachting

By Edward Jones – May 07, 2021

2nd Numarine 37XP Superyacht Sold by Denison Yachting

The second example of the exciting expedition yacht has an owner. Denison Yachting has just announced that Alex Clarke, a Denison yacht broker, has sold the second example of the Numarine 37XP superyacht. The client who purchased the superyacht is actually a repeat Numarine owner. As for the 37XP #2, she is a true expedition yacht that boasts a 5,000 nautical mile range at 10 knots and 6,000 nautical miles at 8 knots. Inside, she has a six-cabin layout with accommodations for 14 guests plus crew accommodations for a crew of nine. Highlight features include the lower deck TV room, jacuzzi on the upper sundeck, boat deck with room for a 28-foot tender and three jet skis, and a designated beach club area. Clarke had this to say about the sale: “It has been an absolute pleasure working with Numarineduring this entire sales process. They are pushing hard to really establish themselves in the American market and this sale is a step in the right direction.” Numarine 37XP #2 is set to be delivered in April 2022. To see what Denison Yachting has for you, be sure to check the inventory down below. View Inventory Source: Denison Yachting & Numarine

By Edward Jones – May 05, 2021

OTAM Reveals a New 115-Foot Yacht Design

Designed after the aeronautical and automotive worlds. OTAM has just revealed a new yacht design that the Ligurian shipyard says will be on of the fastest alloy yachts, capable of reaching a speed of 44 knots. Called the OTAM Custom Range 115, this is a yacht you need to check out. The exterior, which was penned by BG Design Firm, was inspired by the aeronautical and automotive worlds. This inspiration can be found in cues like the chrome vents and air inlets . OTAM notes that Custom Range 115 can be customized in multiple ways. For the four stateroom standard layout, there's an open-plan salon and dining area, two ensuite guest staterooms, large VIP stateroom, full-beam master stateroom, gmy/spa, and much more. Granted, this is just the standard layout and customers will be able to design the Custom Range 115 of their dreams with the help of the designers. To view more yacht news, be sure to click the button below. View All Yacht News Source: OTAM

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

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

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