ocean yachts wikipedia

Not too long ago, though, the picture at Viking was anything but rosy. When the double-whammy of a nationwide recession hit in 1990, followed by the introduction of a federal luxury tax in 1991, the company went from 1,500 employees in two plants to just 80 employees in one plant. In general, the marine industry went into a tailspin that resulted in massive plant shutdowns and a significant rippling effect of related closures as ancillary businesses, such engine manufacturers, equipment producers and other vendors saw their markets dry up.

The Healeys borrowed working capital and invested their own money to keep the company afloat. Bob Healey also was instrumental in organizing a national, grass-roots campaign to fight the tax based on a loss of jobs issue. In taking the industry lead, Bob organized busloads of out-of-work boat builders that converged on Capitol Hill. Other demonstrations took place on a regular basis around the country to plead for support in repealing the tax. In Rhode Island, a boat was set on fire aboard a barge in Narragansett Bay as a symbol of protest. It took better than two years, but by 1993 the luxury tax was history and Viking was poised to flex its muscles as boat buyers returned to the market. It is interesting to note that Viking's decision to remain open, despite dismal sales attributable to the luxury tax allowed the company to tool up for new models. Thus, when the tax was lifted, Viking roared to the front line leapfrogging over its competition firmly establishing Viking as the dominant builder in its class.

In dealing with an owner base that is constantly seeking new and larger models, Viking produced the Custom 105, built in Viareggio, Italy, to Viking's specifications by Versilcraft. The new yacht made its premiere at the 42nd Annual Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show in October 2001 and was awarded the National Marine Manufacturers Association Innovation Award at the Miami International Boat Show in February 2002.

In February 2002, Viking opened a new service facility in Riviera Beach, Florida, near Palm Beach, to accommodate Viking owners who bring their boats south for the winter. The new facility features slips for in-water work, as well as land storage to handle larger projects and outfitting. A 125-foot by 150-foot shed with 50 feet of clearance will accommodate boats with tuna towers for indoor work.

In December 2002, the Bass River Marina, adjacent to the Viking Yacht plant was bought back by the Healeys and reflagged the Viking Yachting Center. It was at this marina where the Healey brothers started their maritime careers. The brothers sold the property in 1964 when they devoted all of their energies to boat manufacturing.

In early 2003, Viking formed two new companies, Atlantic Marine Electronics (AME) and Palm Beach Towers (PBT). Atlantic Marine Electronics is based at the Viking Yachting Center (with a satellite office in Riviera Beach) and is responsible for the sophisticated electronic navigation packages, which are installed aboard Viking Yachts and Viking Sport Cruisers. Based at the Riviera Beach, Florida, facility (with additional service bays at the Yachting Center), Palm Beach Towers designs and builds tuna towers and fabricates other aluminum and fiberglass components for Vikings and other yacht brands.

At a very special breakfast presentation on October 29, 2003 during the International Boatbuilders’ Exhibition & Conference in Miami Beach, Florida, Viking Yachts’ Bill and Bob Healey were recognized by their peers and inducted into the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Hall of Fame for their selfless contributions to the recreational marine industry.

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The 25 Greatest Superyachts of the Past 100 Years

Yacht design and technology—from steam engines to hydrogen fuel cells—have changed dramatically over the last century. these 25 standout vessels have been at the forefront of that revolution., julia zaltzman, julia zaltzman's most recent stories.

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A Century of Sea Change

Yachts have seen remarkable transformations in design and technology in the last 100 years. The lengths and shapes have changed decade by decade, from the mini-ocean liners of the 1920s to a more glamorous, fuller shape by the 1950s, eventually giving way to the layered wedding-cake construction that was so popular until about a decade ago. Now, just about anything goes, judging from the list below, with yachts boasting vertical bows being the most popular.

Technology also changed over the years, from steam engines to diesel to a growing list of hybrid diesel-electric powerplants. In the next five years, expect to see the first generation of superyachts with hydrogen- or methanol-powered fuel cells. What really hasn’t changed in the last century are owners’ desires to create superyachts that are unique, often clashing with the accepted design norms of the time.

Here are the 25 greatest superyachts from the last 100 years.

'Delphine' (257 Feet 9 Inches) 1923, U.S.A.

Delphine is the original 1920s oceangoing queen. American automobile magnate Horace Dodge commissioned the vessel, rumored to have once hosted former President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, and Michigan shipbuilding company Great Lakes Engineering Works built it in 1921. At 258 feet, Delphine remains the largest yacht ever built in the U.S. that is still in operation. She is also the largest active steam-driven yacht in existence. The two original 1,500 hp steam engines were re-equipped with two modern water-tube boilers during a 2003 refit, which provide 18 metric tons of steam per hour. Surviving a stint in the U.S. Navy during World War II, several fires, and multiple owners, Delphine is today fully restored to her 1920s glory, including original teak on the main deck and a revived Tiffany-designed interior.

'Talitha' (247 Feet) 1929, Germany

Talitha is one of the world’s first superyachts with an exceptional pedigree. F. Krupp built the vessel, which was originally penned by naval architects Cox & Stevens (leading designers of their day), in Kiel, Germany. First known as Reveler , Talitha was delivered in 1929 to Russell Algar, chairman of the Packard Car Company. A string of high-profile owners ensued, including John Paul Getty Jr. in the 1930s, son of one of the richest men in the world at the time. Getty commissioned an exterior and interior redesign by late superyacht designer Jon Bannenberg and, in 1993, a full reconstruction was completed at the Devonport shipyard in Plymouth, U.K. Regular refits since, including a 1999 newly installed wheelhouse, has made Talitha successful as a popular charter yacht.

' Malahne' (164 feet) 1937/2015, UK

Originally designed and built for the owner of renowned J-Class yacht Velsheda , classic motor yacht  Malahne enjoys a period interior designed by Scottish designer Guy Oliver (best known for styling London’s 10 Downing Street and Claridge’s). Original Art Deco features include Baccarat crystal, Willer porcelain, Georg Jensen silverware, and a lamp by 1930s designer Edgar Brandt. The yacht was once used as the production headquarters for Lawrence of Arabia and had luminaries such as Elizabeth Taylor, Grace Kelly, and Frank Sinatra walking the teak decks. In 2015, it underwent an extensive restoration at British shipyard Pendennis, which focused on maintaining its old-world glamour, including the yacht’s 25-foot custom-built Cockwells varnished Brazilian mahogany high-speed tender.

'Savarona' (446 Feet 9 Inches) 1931, Germany

Launched in 1931, Savarona was built for an heiress, enjoyed by royalty, and starred on the big screen. Built by Blohm & Voss for Emily Roebling Cadwalader, granddaughter of Brooklyn Bridge engineer John Roebling, 446-foot Savarona was featured in the German science-fiction film Gold . The Turkish government bought the vessel in 1938 and leased to Turkish businessman Kahraman Sadıkoğlu in 1989, who spent $45 million refurbishing the yacht. The original steam turbine engines were replaced with modern Caterpillar diesels, but the original 282-foot gold-trimmed staircase remains. Today, Savarona is the official presidential yacht of the Republic of Turkey.

'Shemara' (212 Feet, 2 Inches) 1938, Great Britain

Within a year of being built in 1938, 212-foot Shemara was requisitioned by the Royal Navy and used throughout World War II as a training vessel for anti-submarine warfare. Following the end of its service, the superyacht returned to her owner Bernard Docker, who entertained high society aboard its decks. Later in life, Shemara endured long periods of neglect until current owner Charles Dunstone acquired her in 2010, starting the long road back to refurbishment. Alongside much of the original teak and steel exterior features, Shemara is now fitted with a Rolls-Royce diesel-electric system, including two electrically driven azimuthing pods and a bow thruster.

'Christina O' (325 Feet) 1943/1954

Possibly one of the most eminent superyachts of all time, 325-foot Christina O didn’t begin life in the spotlight. Built in 1943 by Canadian Vickers, the vessel served as a frigate in World War II until 1954 when Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis bought it as war surplus for a mere $34,000. He spent $4 million on the refurbishment and then entertained the world’s elite on board, from Maria Callas and Grace Kelly to Jack and Jackie Kennedy, prior to Onassis marrying Jackie. Named after Aristotle’s daughter, Christina O enjoys a bronze-edged swimming pool with a mosaic dance floor that rises at the push of a button. The stools in Ari’s Bar retain the original leather upholstery.

'V2V' (ex-Carinthia VI) (137 feet, 7 inches) 1973, Germany

The first major yacht designed by Jon Bannenberg and a breakthrough build for German shipyard Lürssen, Carinthia VI is a star of the decades, commissioned by supermarket magnate Helmut Horten as the sixth yacht in his Carinthia fleet. However, Carinthia V was in fact the original version but sadly hit an uncharted rock on her maiden cruise in the Mediterranean and sank. Horten ordered an almost identical replacement (this time with extra watertight bulkheads) and used Carinthia VI until his death in 1987. In 2016, the yacht suffered severe damage in a fire. Its new owner then bought the yacht, undergoing an extensive rebuild in Turkey to its original Bannenberg lines that was completed in 2023 when the yacht was renamed V2V.

'La Sultana' (214 Feet 56 Inches) 1962, Bulgaria

A Bulgarian passenger ferry turned Soviet spy vessel, 214.5-foot La Sultana has a checkered past. Built in 1962 for operations in the Black Sea, it was absorbed into the Russian fleet during the Cold War and sent to the North Atlantic for unofficial reconnaissance on the United States and United Kingdom. In 2015, La Sultana  completed a seven-year refit, which saw the addition of a raised bow, seven guest cabins across six decks, and a diesel engine installed to drive the original propeller. Several spying instruments were also discovered, including a radioactivity detector and thick aluminum insulation across the entire boat. The original push button steering controls are still in operation.

'Highlander' (164 Feet) 1986, Netherlands

American media mogul Malcolm Forbes commissioned the 164-foot Highlander , built by Feadship to a Jon Bannenberg design with De Voogt naval architecture, in 1986. The yacht’s historic guest list reads like a who’s who of Hollywood stars, from Elizabeth Taylor to Robert De Niro. Two bathrooms in the master suite are offset by six guest cabins. Those lucky enough to charter this piece of yachting history also have use of Forbes’s original cigarette boat, now re-painted in jet black with a bold red stripe.

'Tatoosh' (303 feet) 2000, Germany

Built by Nobiskrug for cellular pioneer Craig McCaw, the 303-foot Tatoosh was more famously owned by the late Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen, who bought the yacht off McCaw in 2001. Penned by German designer Claus Kusch—with input over the years from Jon Bannenberg, Terence Disdale, Martin Francis, and Stefano Pastrovich— Tatoosh is arguably one of the foremost explorer yachts of the modern age. The vessel was conceived to be a world cruiser with all the toys and entertainment that a yacht could carry. Alongside two helicopter landing pads, it has 11 staterooms for 19 guests, a heated swimming pool with a lifting floor, a cinema, and a dive center with a nitrox refilling station for deeper dives.

'Al Salamah' (456 Feet 10 Inches) 1999, Germany

At the time of its construction in 1999, 456-foot Al Salamah was the third largest yacht in the world. The build began at German yard HDW in Kiel but was completed by Lürssen in Bremen, the only yacht builder at the time capable of meeting the owner’s demanding timeline. Al Salamah was commissioned by the late Saudi Arabian crown prince Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz. Estimated to be worth in the region of $200 million and accommodating 36 guests, the ample amenities include a cinema, a fully equipped onboard hospital, two full-time beauticians, a business center, and a spa.

'H' (ex-NEOM) (311 feet) 2000, Netherlands

Delivered in 2000, the 311-foot  H   remained the largest Oceanco yet built and the largest yacht built in Holland until the delivery of Kaos (ex- Jubilee ) in 2017. Originally named Al Mirqab , the vessel was a highly private yacht under the ownership of the Qatar royal family before ex-politician and co-owner of Formula One Force India team Vijay Vittal Mallya took ownership in 2006. The Maltese government seized the lavishly outfitted yacht, which includes a helipad large enough for a twin-engine helicopter, Elton John’s baby grand piano, a full medical suite, and triple engines each delivering 10,000 hp, in 2017 over unpaid maritime bills. NEOM was auctioned off to her current owner in 2018.

'Rising Sun' (453 Feet) 2004, Germany

Built for Oracle cofounder Larry Ellison in 2004 and currently owned by business mogul David Geffen, Lürssen’s Rising Sun is another Jon Bannenberg success story, completed two years after the designer’s death. Even with her 453-foot length and 7,841-gross tonnes volume, Rising Sun achieves an impressive top speed of 28 knots. The owners were impressed enough with the speed to build a suspended, tube-like walkway so visitors can see the four MTU 20V 8000 M90 diesel engines providing the power. A bank of full-height curved windows run along the entire length of the superstructure, flooding the interior with natural light and giving the yacht a striking exterior profile.

'Motor Yacht A' (390 feet, 4 inches) 2008, Germany

Few yachts divide opinion like M/Y A . Designed by Philippe Starck, engineered by naval architect Martin Francis, and built by Blohm + Voss, the yacht is rumored to have cost in the region of $300 million to bring to life. Characterized by its head-turning reverse bow and vertical superstructure, the vessel is a private floating fortress where guests’ access to the water is restricted to the stern. It boasts a cathedral-like tender garage and three swimming pools; it’s also the predecessor to the even more controversial S/Y A , which emerged nine years later and briefly held the place of world’s largest sailing yacht before being displaced by Koru.

'Dubai' (531 Feet 5 Inches) 2006, Germany

Prince Jefri Bolkiah of Brunei first commissioned Dubai in 1995 to be built in collaboration by German shipyards Blohm + Voss and Lürssen. But the superyacht was not completed until 2001 by Platinum Yachts when current owner, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, took over the project. British studio Winch Design crafted the exterior, and the vessel is reported to have cost in the region of $400 million to build. Dubai  was the largest yacht in the world until 2010, when she was replaced by Roman Abramovich’s 533-foot Eclipse . Dubai ’s amenities, spread across eight decks, include a helipad, two 33-foot chase boats, a squash court, and 20 Jet Skis.

'Savannah' (273 feet, 11 inches) 2015, Netherlands

Savannah is renowned for being the first hybrid yacht on water, with fuel savings of up to 30 percent. It blends a single diesel engine with three gensets, batteries, a propeller, and an azimuting pioneering electro-mechanical propulsion platform. Built by Feadship, the yacht’s 41-foot beam was such a tight fit for the Dutch canals during delivery that the builder wrapped her in protective film and used plywood on the sides to serve as fenders. With its interior and exterior designed by Cristina Gherardi Benardeau, the yacht was also ahead of its time, with a corridor of double-height video walls, a floating superstructure, and an underwater Nemo lounge.

'Maltese Falcon' (289 Feet) 2006, Turkey

The legendary Maltese Falcon broke the mold of yacht design when launched in 2006. Perini Navi’s 289-foot, three-masted schooner was the result of its adventurous owner, the late Tom Perkins, and naval architect Gerard Dykstra’s radical design idea. The show-stopping Dynarig concept, now coined the Falcon Rig, catapulted Maltese Falcon to becoming the world’s most instantly recognized yacht, not to mention one of the most complex and largest sailing vessels ever built. The contemporary, computer-controlled sail system is based on freestanding carbon masts and yard-arms into which the sails furl. This system allows for easy sailing in all sea conditions. Famous charterers include Tom Hanks, Hugh Jackman, and Google cofounder Larry Page.

'Eclipse' (533 Feet) 2009, Germany

Aside from stealing the title of world’s largest yacht from 531-foot Dubai by a mere 1.5 feet, Eclipse is an exercise in amenities. Delivered to her owner Roman Abramovich in 2009, the vessel features a 52-foot swimming pool within an extensive beach club, two helipads, and a helicopter hangar under the foredeck. The 533-foot yacht is powered by a diesel-electric system driving azimuthing pods, one of the first of its kind. Eclipse retained the title of world’s largest yacht until the arrival of 590.5-foot Azzam in 2013. Designed inside and out by Terence Disdale, Eclipse took five years to build and is reported to have cost in the region of $590 million.

'Chopi Chopi' (262 Feet) 2013, Italy

Tasked with an experienced owner’s brief for a private yacht on which to spend long family holidays, CRN delivered with  Chopi Chopi . The largest yacht built by CRN at the time of her 2013 launch, the 262-foot Chopi Chopi remains the Italian yard’s flagship. A 656-square-foot owner’s suite with private terrace is complemented by a helipad capable of landing a three-ton helicopter. The interior ceiling heights are in excess of seven feet. But the focus of the design is on comfortable outdoor living, realized by a large beach club with an adjoining sauna, hammam, and spa with a treatment room.

'Azzam' (590 Feet) 2013, Germany

At a whopping 590-foot, Azzam has held the title of world’s largest yacht since her launch in 2013. Azzam was built by German yard Lürssen in a record three years for Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the current President of the United Arab Emirates. Alongside a 95-foot main saloon, Azzam carries a submarine and its own missile defense system. Two gas turbines and two diesel engines propel the yacht through the water more than 32 knots.

'Black Pearl' (350 Feet) 2018, Netherlands

Delivered by Oceanco in 2018, the 350-foot Black Pearl is only the second yacht in the world to be fitted with Dykstra’s DynaRig carbon masts and sailing system. Its eye-catching black sails span 9,514 square feet and can be set in a record seven minutes with the push of a button. The hybrid propulsion system combines wind power with two electric propulsion motors, and its controllable pitch propellers generate enough energy to support the yacht’s hotel load. A waste heat-recovery system is just one of the onboard features that helps to realize the owner’s vision of a “zero-impact” yacht.

'Excellence' (262 Feet) 2019, Germany

Built for an experienced serial owner, American automobile magnate Herb Chambers, the Winch-designed 262-foot Excellence was delivered in 2019. The vessel takes its design inspiration from Motor Yacht A , which Chambers at first didn’t care for but then began to love. The piercing reverse bow (that mimics the beak of an American eagle) and triple-height glass-fronted atrium give it curb appeal but has also led to the yacht being likened to a spaceship. Driven by the desire to have a connection to the outdoors, the design rests upon a symbiotic relation between the indoors and out and was ultimately successful, partially due to the use hundreds of square feet of curved, mirrored glass panels.

'Koru' (417 feet) 2023, Netherlands

Oceanco’s 417-foot Koru , commissioned by Jeff Bezos, is a three-masted, black-hulled schooner with a bowsprit, classic lines, and white superstructure. Reportedly costing $450 million to build and accompanied by a 246-foot custom Damen support yacht  Wingman , the new vessel is the world’s largest sailing yacht (knocking S/Y A off the top spot). Koru also holds the title of the largest superyacht ever built in the Netherlands and the tallest sailing yacht in the world, with masts that measure over 230 feet.

'Obsidian' (417 feet) 2023, Netherlands

Feadship’s 2023 delivery Obsidian has the appearance of a spaceship. But the boat’s technically advanced propulsion package, described as having a 90 percent reduction in total CO2 emissions, is what places it on this list, carrying the Dutch builder one step closer to its goal of achieving a zero-emission superyacht by 2030. The hybrid diesel-electric system is designed into a single-floor engine room creating additional interior space for owners, guests, and crew. With no drive shafts or rudders, the steering is done through a pair of electric Veth contrarotating thrusters. The diesel generators will also run on HVO, a second-generation biodiesel that manufacturers describe as a net-zero CO2 fuel. A low profile, horizontal styling features, and clean exterior shapes are a preamble for the yacht’s interior, which includes an underwater observation area—known as the Aqua Lounge.

'Luminance' (417 feet) 2023, Germany

Delivered in late 2023, Lürssen’s eighth largest build, Luminance , ranks as the 12th largest yacht in the world and is the 30th yacht built by the German shipyard with an exterior design by Espen Øino. The six-deck behemoth is one of the most significant yachts to be launched this year, with an internal volume of 9,000 GT, a beam of 66 feet, and an interior by Francois Zuretti. The gigayacht features two helipads, two Jacuzzis, a large swimming pool, and a distinctive stretched bow.

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Sea Ray Yachts: The Complete Guide to Sea Ray Yachts

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Last Updated on June 23, 2021 by Boatsetter Team

An all-American titan in the boating world, Sea Ray Yachts is the world’s largest and arguably best manufacturer of superior quality yachts. Here’s what the critics have to say about these yachts  what the critics say .

The History of Sea Ray Yachts

Founded in Detroit, Michigan by the young C. N. Connie, Sea Ray has stood as a beacon of innovation and progress, one that would eventually redefine the face of yachting since 1959. It was the first boat manufacturer in the world to use fiberglass in pleasure boat construction.

In 1972, it opened a state-of-the-art facility at Merit Island, Florida. Over time, this grew into three individual plants at that location, employing more than a thousand workers at its peak. Indeed, this enterprise was so renowned for their quality that they could build over a dozen high-end yachts each week, each retailing from $200,000 to $500,000.

However, while its designers were hard at work, Connie Ray’s had the canniest insight that the key to a boat’s success was charismatic dealers. He built a strong network of dependable dealers that were respected across the US. Sea Ray’s first big break came in 1975 with the Sundancer line , which earned the company a place in yachting history. Its seductive lines and spacious cabin space tempted boaters away from traditional, not to mention stuffy, boxy cabin cruisers that dominated the market at the time.

In 1986, Sea Ray was purchased by the Brunswick Corporation for $350 million. Meanwhile, Brunswick purchased the Bayliner brand, making it the largest pleasure boat producer in the world. The rest, they may say, is history.

Features of a Sea Ray Yacht

Everything Sea Ray does is designed not only to be exceptional but create the exceptional. Indeed, Sea Ray is more than a boat; it is a way of life. There is a reason that Sea Ray has one of the largest networks of boat owners the world over. Get involved. Be a part of it.

Brilliant boats are only possible because of their brilliant design. Fortunately, the naval architects at Sea Ray are some of the best. They strive to make every detail of a Sea Ray distinctive, bold, timeless. When your eyes first gaze upon a Sea Ray, it will be love at first sight. This is because each model is designed with the owner at heart. They will cater to every need or desire.

Nimble. Sporty. Fast. High-octane. Sea Ray Yachts always perform. But this power is at no cost to comfort and security. Sea Ray Yachts are smooth, quiet, and easy to handle. They will not let you down – whatever the weather.

More than most other boatbuilders in the market, Sea Ray cares for their customers. They have an unrivaled reputation for support and commitment that is unmatched by any other manufacturer out there. Such is reflected in the fact that each vessel comes with a 3 – 5 year warranty.

No wonder Sea Ray has won an enviable amount of  awards  for quality, customer satisfaction, and dealer performance. Connie Ray would be proud.

The Sea Ray Range

We are fortunate enough to present a rich array of Sea Rays for rental. In fact, thanks to our  peer-to-peer  boat rental network, testing out a Sea Ray yacht is easier than ever before.

Boatsetter rentals typically come with a knowledgeable captain and crew to guide you on an exciting yacht charter adventure. We offer boats to rent from multiple locations across the United States, Europe, and beyond. Many of our rentals can be enhanced with jet skis, electronic surfboards, and sea bobs.

Want to know where to begin? Click  here .

The Sundancer Series

For that long weekend, you have been dreaming of

Need a break? Well, the Sundancer Series will allow you to enjoy a much-needed long weekend in sheer comfort and style. Experienced craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, the Sundancer Series provides an idyllic boating experience. Treat your partner, surprise your lover, or take the fishing rods and go it alone. Go on. Do it.

Sundancer 320

The Sundancer 320 is as plentiful as it is functional. It has a spacious bow lounging area and seating area on the deck , complete with wet bar, refrigerator and grill, and comfortable cabin. In short, a space for endless entertaining and reclining in style. And when the sun dips low in the sky, the Sundancers V- berth seating around a solid wood table converts into a sleeping area fit for a king. Four kings, to be precise!

This boat packs a punch on the waves powered by Twin MerCruiser 6.2 L MPI ECT Bravo III engines. Its cutting-edge VesselView Mobile technology allows you to connect your iPhone or Android to the yacht’s onboard management system, where it will monitor all the engines and customize data points. If something isn’t right, it will send you alerts to assist in troubleshooting and keep you and your family safe on the water.

Sundancer 370 Outboard

Measuring in at 39′ 9″, the Sundancer 370 Outboard is an engineering feat. Below deck, it offers sheer relaxation, so much so you won’t want to get off at the port . Sleeping four, there is plenty of room for maneuvering in the cabin. Across the interior, there is a chic yet homely design that emphasizes spaciousness. The galley includes a microwave, refrigerator, and forward V-berth lounge.

Fantastic for the kids, there is a shower, optional smart TV for playing video games, and a u-shaped sofa that converts into a sleeper for two. Don’t worry about the babysitter.

With joystick piloting and an optional dynamic running surface, the Sundancer performs without par. It is propelled by standard triple Mercury 300 Verado outboard engines. These can be commanded intelligently as the helm is equipped with a Digital Dash feature and standard dual 122 Simrad touch screen displays.

The SLX Series

Unleash your inner athlete  

A ground-breaking in every sense. The SLX Series combines high performance with innovative technology. They are perfect for the sports enthusiast out there – or one in the making. All the towers and hardtops in the series include new forward-facing and folding styles. Many towers fold electronically, whereas standard and optional components include:

• Swivel wakeboard racks.
• Integrated bimini tops and lights.
• Rotating nylon ski tows for reduced rope wear.

The SLX 280 is a dream. There is a level of excellence in its design that you will see and feel. You can dazzle your passengers at night by lighting up the ocean with blue underwater LED lights, which help set the mood of spending time with loved ones or friends. Add in soft ambient music or something a bit more high tempo, and you have yourself a party.

When you wish to tear off to a new destination in the morning, the SLX 280 can perform without compromises. Smooth and responsive controls allow you to master its power and agility, while its Mercury SmartCraft Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) system deliver effortless command. Aggression. Power. Performance. Can you tame this beast?

The SDX Series

Raise a glass to the sunshine.

Summers go past in the blink of an eye. This is why it is important to choose carefully who we spend our free time with and how we spend it. Every SDX model is designed to bring you the best moments, be it with family, friends, or business colleagues – they cater to groups of many sizes and needs. An SDX is a tribute to summer.

Do you love water sports? And do you like spending time with your friends? This is where the SDX 290 shines. One of the best in its class, this luxury deck boat has a deep V hull and wide carried forward beam , measuring in 9′ (3m). This handy feature allows you to seat more friends and customize the layout to your group’s individual needs with the convertible portside and helm seats. Sailing or at anchor, the SDX 290 is malleable to your needs.

The SPX Series

Non-stop thrills

This series is built for days to remember. Each sport boat is built to excite and entertain. The heady cocktail of style, performance, and fun. What’s not to love?

Sporty and affordable, the SPX 190 Outboard is an athlete on the water. It glides across the water effortlessly with its comfortable handling, while the stylish design delivers a premium boating experience without an eye-watering price tag . The SPX comes as standard with 2 x Mercury 115 Pro XS outboard engines with power options up to 150 HP.

And for when you feel like taking a break from the thrills, the deck has a spacious sun pad and easy water access from the swim platform. The interior will provide the kind of comfort and performance your family needs and deserves.  Take a look for yourself  with this walkthrough.

Don’t miss the call of the water. Can you hear it? 

Boatsetter empowers people to explore with confidence by showing them a world of possibility on the water. Rent  a boat,  list  your boat, or become a  Boatsetter captain  today.

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Selene is a division of the Selene Yachts Group founded in 1998. With a spirit of excellence and great design, Selene Ocean Yachts quickly became a leading world brand in the luxury long-range trawlers and explorer yachts galaxy.

In 1970, a famous Taiwanese architect named Dr. Da-Hong designed a memorial to commemorate the successful « Apollo 11 » moon landing. Since the NASA project was called Apollo, after the Greek god of the sun, and the project’s goal was moon exploration, Mr. Wang decided it would be appropriate to name the memorial Selene after the mythical Greek goddess of the moon. Years later, Howard Chen became a student of Mr. Da-Hong Wang at the School of Architecture of Tunghai University in Taiwan. When he learned about the memorial he decided to call his new line of yachts « Selene ». The first yacht arrived in the United States in 1999, and to date there are more than 400 of them cruising around the world!

THE SHIPYARD

Initially, Selene Yachts was based in Taiwan, with a shipyard in Dongguan, China. The historic Selene Yachts headquarters is still located in a prosperous industrial town called Hou-Jie, which means « rich street » in Chinese.

Dongguan is known for its high-end furniture industry. As a result, many of the materials that Selene Yachts has used to create the luxurious interiors of their yachts were readily available. High quality woods and veneers, fabrics, granite, and glass were all easy to find locally. In addition, skilled labor was plentiful in the region, and the local climate is ideal for fiber-glass lamination. Since 2006, Selene Yachts has had its own stainless steel workshop, which reduces dramatically the production costs and increases the quality. The Dongguan shipyard opened in 1998 and the first yacht was delivered to the United States in 1999.

A new landscaped shipyard in Zhuhai

In 2008, Selene Yachts opened another shipyard in Zhuhai near Macau, 70 miles from Dongguan.  Howard designed the landscaping for the new facility and he also invested a lot of time in the design of the buildings. The two cream-colored workshops and the four story dormitory that stand near the Zhuhai road are very eye-catching compared to other industrial buildings in the area. The Zhuhai shipyard includes two workshops A & B each approximately 150,000 square feet and a warehouse of 32,000 square feet. Workshop B, is equipped with four cranes capable of lifting 100 tons, and is the biggest single production shop in Asia. It can accommodate 36 sets of molds or boats under construction.

A new anchoring dock

The facilities at Zhuhai are far superior to the original shipyard in Dongguan and Zhuhai is located on the water. This makes getting the yachts into the water for testing much easier. There are plans to build an anchoring dock in Zhuhai.

For many years Selene Yachts built the smaller yachts in Dongguan and the larger ones in Zhuhai. Over the past 20 years, the company has built almost 400 yachts ranging in size from 38 feet to 103 feet in these two shipyards.  In 2017 the decision was made to consolidate the production of all yachts in Zhuhai. During the latter half of 2017 Selene Yachts began moving all of their molds, tooling and some of the staff to Zhuhai.

As of 2018, all future boats will be manufactured in Zhuhai

Selene Yachts can build up to a hundred boats per year

Selene Yachts Zhuhai is one of the best equipped and largest scale shipyards building FRP yachts in the world. The Zhuhai shipyard has the capacity to build up to a hundred yachts per year!

Howard continues to remain intimately involved with every project and likes nothing better than coming up with new ideas. If you decide to buy a new Selene yacht you can be sure that you will get very personal attention from the Selene people…

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The Story of Oceanco’s Superyachts

By Emily Dawkins

From the start of its journey in 1987 to its current-day projects, Dutch shipyard Oceanco has never failed to impress the superyacht industry. Specialising in the design and construction of custom superyachts up to 160m in length, ‘quality and innovation’ is at the heart of everything Oceanco does. This year marks the yard’s 35th anniversary of spectacular yacht building. To celebrate the occasion, we delve into the story behind Oceanco, and how it came to build some of the most iconic superyachts in the world. ‘Every detail counts’ for Oceanco.

Stretching over an impressive 28 acres of yacht-building facilities in the Netherlands, with extensive design, sales and marketing offices in Monaco, Oceanco has seen significant growth over the past 35 years. 

A design office in Monaco, a building facility in South Africa, and an outfitting facility in the Netherlands first kickstarted the Oceanco name in 1987. 1993 saw the purchase of a facility in Dreumel, the Netherlands, and only four years later in 1997, the yard relocated to an even larger establishment, the Van der Giessen de Noord shipyard in Alblasserdam, where it is still situated today. 

The Oceanco name was thriving in both success and reputation, and the appointment of Theordore Angelopoulos as chairman in 2002 created an even bigger surge for the brand. With a new chairman at the forefront, a new business strategy for Oceanco began: ‘Oceanco will focus on the niche market of 80+ metre yachts; the Y700 Generation Yachts’. This new generation of 80m+ superyachts saw the introduction of some of Oceanco’s most iconic yacht builds, including 82m Alfa Nero (originally Y702), who was launched in 2007. 

2010 saw a different kind of expansion for Oceanco. The Dutch yard welcomed Dr. Al Barwani as the new Chairman and Owner, and Marcel Onkenhout as CEO. Here began the Oceanco revolution: a new, and innovatively advanced journey for superyacht builds over 80m. 

With the length and complexity of Oceanco’s yachts increasing year on year, alongside the growing demand for Oceanco yacht builds, new dry dock facilities were constructed in Alblasserdam, the Netherlands, in 2015. For the yard, ‘this was an important decision to contribute to the development of the Drechtsteden and strengthen its maritime position.’ Not long after, in 2019, the Heerema Zwijndrecht establishment was acquired by the brand as part of its, ‘long-term initiative for growth, expansion and consolidation of its construction activities’ . 

Marking the start of the shipyard’s move to build technologically advanced superyachts, the 2002 strategy undoubtedly set Oceanco on the path to greatness. Today, it has not only continued building some of the largest and most innovative yachts in the world, but has also become the industry’s sustainability pioneer: championing green technology, responsibly sourced materials and eco-friendly equipment to move away from the conventions of fossil fuels and to move towards the future. 

CEO Marcel Onkenhout commented: ‘as a builder, we always keep in mind that innovation should never be pursued for the sake of it; innovation should always add benefit to the owner.’ 

Marketing Director, Paris Baloumis, added: ‘we indeed build yachts, but we also want to create a better world for future generations.’

Launching into the NFT Universe this year with ‘Superyacht NFTs’ is yet another prime example of Oceanco’s pioneering ethos. Becoming the first superyacht builder to expand into the world of non-fungible tokens, Oceanco once again proved its commitment to pushing conventional industry boundaries and embracing the evolving future with technology at the forefront. Designed by Timur Bozca, the limited collection of NFTs blend a harmony of real design with remarkable features, bespoke owner benefits and a plethora of rarities.

‘Entering the world of NFTs felt like a natural progression for Oceanco and we wanted to make sure that we offered something unique and exciting. We are making the exclusive more inclusive’, commented Paris Baloumis at the NFT launch in March this year. 

As an esteemed superyacht shipyard building iconic vessels since 1987, Oceanco continues to expand its fleet as a testament to its ‘dare to ask new and bold questions approach’. We take a look at the Dutch yard’s most iconic yacht builds since its 2002 market expansion, as highlighted by Oceanco. 

82m Alfa Nero

82m motor yacht Alfa Nero marked the second addition to the new generation of Oceanco yacht builds. Leading the way for the brand, the 2007 delivered vessel was positively revolutionary for her time. Boasting a timeless exterior design by Nuvolari Lenard and luxurious interiors by Alberto Pinto, the 82m yacht was launched with the industry’s first rear pool onboard: a state-of-the-art addition that conveniently drains and raises to reveal a helideck and dancefloor. 

91.5m Tranquility  

Tranquility represents another industry first for Oceanco. Standing at 91.5m, she became the first superyacht compliant with the Passenger Yacht Code (PYC), ‘a set of technical, safety and operational standards specific to the size and use of a private vessel’ , with accommodation for up to 26 guests. For Tranquility, the construction process required careful considerations to ensure optimum functionality, alongside strictly compliant materials and fabrics that meet the exact PYC requirements. For a yacht compliant with the PYC, Tranquility boasts a remarkable exterior profile designed by the Dutch yard, and a breathtaking interior by Winch Design. 

At the time of her delivery in 2017, 110m Kaos became the largest yacht to ever be built by Oceanco and the largest yacht to be built in the Netherlands. Also compliant with the PYC, she welcomes up to 30 guests onboard a striking interior design by Sam Sorgiovanni. With exterior design by Igor Lobanov, Kaos showcases cleverly positioned ‘fake decks’ in her superstructure as a, ‘visual trick to mask an above-average deck height’ which creates a more expansive sense of space onboard. 

106.7m Black Pearl  

106.7m Black Pearl is by far one of the most innovatively advanced Oceanco yacht builds. Delivered in 2018, three colossal DynaRig masts adorn her superstructure, creating not only an impressive profile, but also the most ecologically oriented sailing yacht in the world that is able to cross the ocean without the need for fossil fuel. Alongside a state-of-the-art sailing system which regenerates power by utilising a 2,877sqm sail area, Black Pearl has a single-level engine room and an innovative hybrid propulsion installation. Wind energy converts to electrical energy, creating the possibility of complete zero-emission transatlantic crossing. Combining emission-free travel with modern comfort and luxury, this 106.7m is a piece of Oceanco ingenuity. 

DeBasto Design takes the glory of designing the 2018 delivered DAR, originally known as Project Shark due to her sleek, shark-like profile. Another superyacht from the Y700 collection of next-generation Oceanco builds, 90m DAR is, ‘unlike any superyacht afloat today’. Integrating the latest advances in glass technology, this unmissable vessel boasts a superstructure finished completely in reflective glass. At the time of her delivery, she became the first yacht in the Netherlands to be given the official Lloyd’s Register Integrated Bridge System (IBS) notation and designation. With contemporary interior design by Nuvolari Lenard, DAR has been fully utilised to maximise opportunities for outdoor living. 

109m Bravo Eugenia  

Delivered in 2018, 109m Bravo Eugenia is a sustainability pioneer. The first superyacht to contain the cutting-edge LIFE design, an acronym for yachts with ‘Lengthened, Innovative, Fuel-efficient and Eco-friendly’ features, Bravo Eugenia is an exemplar example of the move to the future for Oceanco. Uniting voluminous living spaces with astonishing hydrodynamic efficiency and ground-breaking sustainability benefits, the 109m vessel has become one of the most recognisable superyachts in the world. 

90m DreAMBoat

Oceanco produced yet another industry first with 90m DreAMBoat. An exceptional collaboration with esteemed yacht designers Espen Øino and Terence Disdale resulted in the 90m yacht that undeniably lives up to her name. Created with multigenerational family life at her core, 2019 delivered DreAMBoat is a true representation of meticulous Oceanco craftsmanship. 

117m Infinity

Recently delivered, Infinity marks an impeccable addition to the Oceanco fleet. At 117m, she has become Oceanco’s largest built motor yacht and impressively, the largest Dutch-built yacht to date. With a spectacular design team composed of Espen Øino, Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, David Kleinberg Design Associates and Lateral Naval Architecture, CEO Marcel Onkenhout highlighted how, ' she represents the true power of co-makership that is central to all our projects.’  

‘We don't copy an icon. We create a new one,’ and ultimately Oceanco continues to do just that. As an industry, we can look forward to the future superyacht world with a brand such as Oceanco at the forefront.

"As a builder, we always keep in mind that innovation should never be pursued for the sake of it; innovation should always add benefit to the owner." Marcel Onkenhout, CEO, Oceanco

"As a builder, we always keep in mind that innovation should never be pursued for the sake of it; innovation should always add benefit to the owner."

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