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Lürssen’s 90m expedition yacht NORN delivered

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By Steph Loseby   5 May 2023

Following her launch in February earlier this year, the highly secretive 90m (295 ft) superyacht NORN , formerly known as Project 1601, has been delivered by iconic German builder Lürssen  and has since left the facilities to embark on her maiden voyage. 

The specifications and amenities for superyacht NORN have been kept a closely guarded secret since her construction began in 2018. However, we know her distinct, geometrical exterior was helmed by Norwegian designer and naval architect Espen Oeino whilst her yet-to-be-revealed interiors are the works of Dölker+Voges Design and are expected to mirror the yacht’s exterior design.

The brief required a superyacht that excels in design and engineering whilst also catering to maximum comfort onboard. Described by the shipyard as a project with “striking design" and "extraordinary features”, superyacht NORN has a utilitarian character, with an oblique reverse bow, narrow rectangular windows, planar surfaces and angular corners. 

Built for a repeat owner, superyacht NORN is a replacement vessel for the iconic 70m (232ft) yacht SKAT , which was delivered in 2002. 

Sharing similar design cues, we can expect that brand new superyacht NORN may follow an alike minimalist interior approach with a variety of light, bright and airy social spaces onboard. There is also expected to be a signature panoramic sky lounge, an additional area onboard where guests can soak up the superyacht lifestyle.

The brief required a superyacht that excels in design and engineering to provide seagoing comfort for the family.

As a custom-built 3,600 GT explorer yacht , NORN is guaranteed to have a helipad, closing the bridge between land and sea for guests onboard. She also features zero-speed stabilizers, an exterior cinema and a liftable pool floor with dancefloor illumination to allow a unique and memorable cruising experience for her guests. Electronic anchoring in sensitive and remote areas is made easy thanks to the use of a dynamic positioning system, ensuring that the seabed is protected regardless of water depth.

Norn was one of two yachts launched by the German shipyard in February following the grand reveal of the 145m (475ft) Project Luminance , which is the eighth largest yacht to be built by Lürssen and has just successfully finished her sea trials  last week. 

With over 10 projects in-build currently, Lürssen is expected to deliver the 122m (400ft) superyacht PROJECT JAG later this year whilst the 114 (378ft) superyacht PROJECT COSMOS will be completed in 2024. 

It is not believed that superyacht NORN will be available to charter upon delivery. If you’re looking for a private yacht charter for your next vacation and you'd like to rent a superyacht of a similar calibre, you can view and compare all Lürssen superyachts for charter .

Featured Lürssen superyachts available for charter

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85m Lurssen 2013 / 2022

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90m Voyager: First Fully-Integrated Superyacht

By George Bains

The largest project ever undertaken in the 30 year history of Florida-based Voyager Maritime Alliance Group (VMAG) has been completed. Following a three year conversion from a commercial vessel, the custom 90m M/Y Voyager has been unveiled in Fort Lauderdale and becomes the first fully-integrated ocean-going superyacht, boasting some impressive unique innovations.

Before her christening as M/Y Voyager, the superyacht was known simply as ‘The Big Project’, which accurately sums up how she is regarded by those at VMAG. President of VMAG, David Leone, spoke of the scale of the refit operation. “ Very little was left untouched throughout the vessel,” said Leone, “ so it was crucial to manage each section of the refit, in the right order, to avoid any delays and additional costs. ”

M/Y Voyager’s refit brings an unprecedented level of automated technology fitted around the superyacht, which is not only aesthetically pleasing but ensures a seamless running of the vessel. “ I am particularly proud to create the first ever entire superyacht vessel integration, with over 3.000 monitored points, ” commented David Leone. “ That was some achievement! This means that anywhere on the vessel there are access points that can monitor any type of activity .”

Such holistic visibility of all on-board systems allows the Captain to have complete control no matter where he may be on the yacht. Voyager benefits from unique integrated video switching, using laser detection sensors and high grade analytic cameras to record activity. Touch-screen consoles are then fed real-time analytical data to allow any necessary actions to be deployed and corrected immediately. Multiple glass touch-screen panels grace the yacht’s bridge, and enhance usability of the control systems to manage the vessel.

For the team at VMAG, this has been a monumental project successfully executed. Leone added that “ with our team of technical engineers, I knew we could accomplish this particularly complex project .” Having successfully completed Voyager’s conversion, the company are now aiming to take on projects of a similar complexity and scale.

Reading between the lines following the launch of the first fully-integrated luxury yacht, one can deduce a prevalent trend of technological innovations in the industry. While Voyager is a trailblazer for integrated superyachts, advancements in technology are revolutionising all areas of the industry, notably being put to use to develop eco-friendly yachting .

"I am particularly proud to create the first ever entire superyacht vessel integration" David Leone, President of VMAG

"I am particularly proud to create the first ever entire superyacht vessel integration"

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SUNSEEKER 90 OCEAN

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Principal Characteristics & Technical Specifications

The Sunseeker 90 Ocean breaks new boundaries to create a spectacular luxury yacht that boasts a remarkable 20% increase in overall volume and nearly 30% more deck space, thanks not only to her substantial beam but also her upright bow that brings interior volume forward.

The spacious Beach Club, measuring over 6m x 4m is perfect for family and friends to socialise close to the water, perhaps utilising the built-in BBQ. The Bezenzoni ‘Ladder Gangway’ allows guests to effortlessly access the watersports on offer, after which they will be keen to use the oversized ‘rain shower’ before relaxing on the new transformational X-TEND™ sunbeds.

The adjoining hydraulic platform provides ample space to house and launch a Jet Ski, a Williams 460 SportJet and two SeaBobs, housed in dedicated self-draining lockers. The flybridge is a staggering 25% larger than a comparable luxury yacht, and owners can select an infinity spa pool and sideboard with a second integrated BBQ. A wet bar with stainless steel sink, drawer fridges, ice maker, and glass bar top is also available to make the most of this popular entertainment area. The carbon fibre hardtop with a full-width retractable canopy provides the shade for exceptionally generous seating and dining area that can be configured or left open-plan depending on the owner’s exact requirements

Winner of 'Custom Yacht' at 2023 Motor Boat Awards

The Sunseeker 90 Ocean wins best 'Custom Yacht' at the 2023 Motor Boat Awards held during boot Düsseldorf. The annual awards aim to celebrate the very best that the leisure boating industry has to offer, recognising excellence in design, innovation and performance.

The 90 Ocean is a spectacular yacht that boasts a 20% increase in overall volume and 25% more deck space than a comparable yacht; thanks not only to her substantial beam but her upright stem that creates a brand new Sunseeker silhouette cutting through the water

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Tommaso Spadolini reveals new 90m yacht design: elegance, technology and privacy

Tommaso Spadolini has unveiled the first details of a true floating masterpiece: a 90-metre sports superyacht with very distinctive lines resulting from a joint collaboration with the owner that led to an interior configuration and exterior styling that guarantee high levels of usability.

“ We have worked closely with the owner and his representatives to create a really head-turning design that responds to his three key requirements without sacrificing one iota of practicality – stated Tommaso Spadolini – Capable of speeds around 20 knots, this superyacht had to have the external form of a fast boat: something we have achieved with the strongly curved lines that dip towards the stern. Then we have emphasized proximity to the water by creating a lot of focus around the two-deck beach club and using lots of glass. The internal configuration of the boat has been carefully studied to create the maximum privacy for the owner ”.

Fast lines were a key part of the brief, and from the first hand-drawn sketches, Spadolini conceived a powerful shear for the main deck, emphasized by two strong convex lines for the owner’s and upper decks. The necessary straight lines for bulwarks and decks are cleverly concealed by powerful, flowing curves that peak amidships before sweeping down towards the generous beach club.

The brief required two further key features: the design of the yacht should give guests the sense that they are in close contact with the sea. And it should enable the owner to maintain a high degree of privacy from other guests and crew.

At 90 metres long, Tommaso Spadolini’s design is distinguished by a large beach club area in the stern which, arranged over the lower and main decks, includes a 150 sq. m lounge area with twin fold-down balconies, a gym and bar, a sauna, massage and relaxation area. The bathing platform itself amounts to 65 sq. m and the main aft cockpit above fills another 150 sq. m, flooded with natural light thanks to the shorter overhangs of the deck above.

The beach club also includes an infinity pool measuring 7 x 3m with a glazed bottom, suspended over the bathing platform, offering a unique view of the horizon. The connection to the water is further emphasized by the balconies outside the sliding doors of the upper lounge. The use of glass throughout the main and upper decks with full-height windows is also distinctive.

Attention to privacy was another of the key demands from the outset of this project, and Tommaso Spadolini has made every effort to meet this need, creating a dedicated owner’s deck and closely controlling access via stairs and lift. There are dedicated his n’ hers bathrooms, walk-in wardrobes, a wine cellar, and smoking room with humidor.

“ Discretion and privacy were a big part of the brief – explained Spadolini – We have developed enclosed structures for the stairs and separate crew access so that the owner can be completely cocooned on demand. Sound absorbing materials would be used in doors and bulkheads to ensure total confidentiality, without compromising on the really lavish series of private spaces.”

An outdoor lounge area and a saloon with a swimming pool in the bow complete the layout of the owner’s deck, the atrium of which can be delimited with specially insulated doors to prevent access to the owner’s flats and ensure maximum privacy. With regard to the cabins, it is impossible not to underline the size of the owner’s suite, which features a large bed with a 270-degree view towards the bow and a private lounge area.

The bow area also features six spacious guest cabins, including two VIP cabins. Forward again, there is room for a huge toy garage, which runs to a jet tender and multiple jet skis. The main tender garage can accommodate a 9m boat. A lounge area and a Jacuzzi are located aft, where several options for outdoor entertaining have been developed, including a barbecue area and an outdoor dining table.

Tommaso Spadolini’s design is a perfect combination of elegance and technology, with a focus on privacy and connection to the sea. Once completed, this 90-metre yacht will undoubtedly be a jewel that, whether at sea in the waves or in harbour, will be able to stand out.

“ We have spent many hundreds of hours refining the design of this yacht ,” said Spadolini. “ It is now ready to move to the next engineering stage. Though we are currently studying some larger designs for potential clients, this is the biggest yacht we have brought to such a stage of detail. It is very dear to me, like a member of the family.”

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• Boats Boat Reviews

Viking Yachts 90 Review: New Flagship Boat Replaces the 92

• By Peter Frederiksen
• May 9, 2023

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Freshly launched at the 2023 Miami International Boat Show, the Viking 90 is the company’s new flagship, replacing its popular 92-footer that was launched in the 2015 model year. Viking built and delivered 21 of the 92s, and was prepared to continue, but new International Maritime Organization emission regulations required the installation of heavy, large, and potentially dangerous Selective Catalytic Reduction systems. Because the required equipment to deal with these changes neither existed nor would be available to maintain the boat’s production schedule, Viking was forced to discontinue the production of the 92.

A bitter tale perhaps, but since 1964, when Bill and Bob Healey founded the Viking Yacht Company in New Gretna, New Jersey, the builder has dealt with all sorts of stumbling blocks, including the early 1990s federal luxury tax that crushed the marine industry, and several recessions. Recent challenges include COVID-related supply-chain issues and a proposed 10-knot East Coast speed restriction due to right whale conundrums. Yet, somehow, none of these obstacles stopped Viking from carrying out its mantra to “build a better boat every day.”

Some 5,000 boats later, Viking president and CEO Pat Healey charged his design, engineering, and production teams to renew that commitment again and build a new flagship. Investing $20 million in research and creating more than 240 new molds, including hull, topside, flybridge and interior, and pouring in reservoirs of sweat equity and tens of thousands of man-hours, the unveiling of the new Viking 90 as a flagship is no fish story. As with any Viking, a new model must be as good as or better than what it replaces, and the Viking 90 is all that and more.

Cockpit and Mezzanine

The 90’s cockpit is 224 square feet and includes a 203-gallon livewell built into the ­transom that can double as a fish box. A pair of 103-gallon ­insulated fish boxes line the cockpit sole, and each can be refrigerated or serve as a depository for the dual Eskimo ice chippers. A watertight centerline deck hatch opens to access the Seakeeper 35 ­gyrostabilizer for maintenance and routine inspections.

The cockpit work area resembles the 92, so there is undergunwale storage, and the lower-mezzanine ­seating ­provides air conditioning for relaxing, watching baits, and staying close to the cockpit action. Insulated boxes and other compartments stow gear, drinks and tackle, and the crew quarters are also accessed through this area. The upper mezzanine is reached by way of ­flanking steps from the cockpit sole and includes an L-shaped aft-­facing lounge, a teak table, and an available 43-inch flat-screen ­television that drops down from the overhead. Another ­seating area to starboard ­provides an electric grill, a cocktail ice machine, and drawer ­storage. Artisan teak decking and a faux-teak bulkhead and cockpit trim work make for a custom feel.

Interior and Accommodations

Stepping into the salon through the electric sliding door, you can see that the interior matches what the 92 provided, starting with access to the enclosed bridge via a wide staircase to starboard. The 92’s interior was a hit with each owner, so the design group capitalized on those previous efforts, essentially fitting the interior accommodations of the 92 into the new 90 hull and deckhouse footprints.

A massive U-shaped lounge to port faces the starboard-side entertainment center with a 65-inch television that rises from the walnut cabinetry, which is available in either a satin or gloss finish, along with a wet bar, sink and icemaker. Slightly forward, the starboard galley with engineered-stone countertops offers tremendous space for several place settings, five bar stools, and commercial-grade appliances. Opposite the galley, there’s an immense U-shaped walnut table on a raised platform that provides a home for rod storage. There is a day head to port and a walk-in pantry to starboard that can also serve as a makeshift stateroom.

The 90-footer’s design group reworked the 92’s overnight accommodations and tweaked an inch here and there to refine the available space with the goal to streamline each stateroom while retaining the size of each bed and entryway. The master stateroom utilizes the full beam, providing a king-size walk-around bed, end tables, credenza, 65-inch television, walk-in closet, lounge seat, ­vanity and desk. His-and-her heads are separated by a walk-in ­glass-framed shower. Four other staterooms, each with a private head and fiberglass shower, provide comfort and privacy. The aft crew quarters also include a small galley and laundry center, enabling the 90 to easily spend a month at sea.

Hull No. 1 is built with a ­climate-­controlled enclosed bridge with the skybridge option, with 9-plus feet of ­freeboard ­forward and 3-plus feet aft.

The unbroken ­sheerline melds these dimensions into a silky-smooth transition from bow to stern, and bridge to waterline. The enclosed bridge adds a number of features, including a second salon with an L-shaped lounge, a high-low walnut cocktail table, refrigeration, and a 43-inch pop-up television. The command helm is a home run, and especially noteworthy for its one-piece, wraparound forward windshield that maximizes the operator’s visibility without the typical ­distractions caused by vertical mullions. The added visibility also benefits passengers sitting in the flanking Stidd companion seats, whose view is equally unobstructed. Viking ­subsidiary Atlantic Marine Electronics equipped the helm with five 24-inch Seatronx MFDs, while the lower portion of the helm console is outfitted with radio boxes, instruments, SidePower bow-thruster controls, Optimus steering, and MTU engine controls.

Outside, AME complemented the aft-station layout with a pair of Seatronx 19-inch displays, which also include full engine ­controls and ­communication ­equipment. A sitting area is to port, ­separated by a ladder to the ­skybridge. The skybridge ­features the craftsmanship of Viking’s other subsidiary, Palm Beach Towers, which completed the ­fiberglass hardtop and added a host of accessories, ­including Rupp hydraulic outriggers, spreader lights, teaser reels, ­custom bridge railings, and a radar pod. Viking also offers the 90 convertible in an ­open-bridge style.

Engine Room and Performance

The gleaming Snow White Awlgrip-painted engine room has more than 7 feet of headroom on the centerline, with 40 inches between the main engines. Twin 2,600 hp MTUs provide walkaround accessibility to various systems, including the Furuno CSH8L sonar tube, Octoplex digital switching system, and the Optimus steering system. Components are neatly labeled, and composite seacocks help stem corrosion and reduce weight.

The centralized seawater system has been redesigned to reduce complexity and incorporates ElectroSea’s Clearline system with dual pumps to increase reliability and component longevity. A chilled-water air-conditioning system provides 18 tons of cooling with reverse-cycle heat and individual controls throughout the interior.

Read Next: Get to know Pat Healey, the president of VIking Yachts, in our exclusive interview .

Twelve people were on board for our sea trial off the coast of Palm Beach, Florida. With a fuel load of 70 percent, the 90 hustled to an average top speed of 38 knots, where one pass read 39.3 knots on the GPS. At 2,100 rpm, the boat eases along at 32-plus knots to deliver a range of some 582 nautical miles.

The Viking Yacht Company hasn’t missed a beat in nearly 60 years of continuous production, and the passing of its 92 is just another milestone in the company’s history. So, it’s safe to say, with 16 90-footers already on order, the beat goes on.

Viking Yachts 90 Specs

• Beam: 23’2”
• Draft: 5’11”
• Displ: 193,490 lb.
• Fuel: 3,801 gal.
• Water: 480 gal.
• Power: MTU 16V2000 M96L
• Gear/Ratio: ZF 5000A/2.962:1
• Propellers: Veem, 5-blade
• Gelcoat: Kingston Grey
• Climate Control: Dometic
• More: Boat Reviews , Boats , July 2023 , Viking Yacht Company

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Reviewed: Viking Yachts 90 Sky Bridge

• By Tom Serio
• October 20, 2023

Viking Yachts built 21 of its 92-foot convertibles in less than seven years, so the New Gretna, New Jersey, boatbuilder knew there was strong demand for supersize sport-fishermen. But a pending change in emissions regulations involving selective catalytic reduction would have forced the addition of costly, heavy equipment to the engine rooms, decreasing performance and efficiencies. As a result, Viking ceased production on its 92-footer (and its 93 Motoryacht ) and developed a 90-foot convertible that would fall just under the required size for the rule.

Now, that Viking Yachts 90 has arrived. Hull No. 1 is a Sky Bridge model in what the builder calls Kingston Grey. Convertible and Enclosed Bridge versions are also available, with at least seven more hulls in production or ready for the molds as of this writing.

When I stepped up to the 24-foot-high perch on the Sky Bridge, I felt like I could almost see the Earth’s curve. Triple multifunction displays and twin covered consoles for radios and switches flanked the Palm Beach faux-wood helm. The Sky Bridge also offers a great vantage point for eyeing baits behind the boat.

Below, at the enclosed bridge’s helm, five multifunction screens wrap toward the captain’s position, creating a true glass-helm setup. Every navigation, fishing and operational function can be monitored here. There’s room under the screens for additional engine monitors and radios, as well as space on the console for more electronics. To aid the skipper’s visibility, the forward windshield is one piece until it reaches the corners. There are three beefy wipers, and no mullions to block the view. Flanking the captain’s chair are two double bench seats so guests can also enjoy the commanding views.

Running to and from the fishing grounds can take time—well, not too long at a 33-knot cruise speed—but for those longer runs, this yacht’s all-weather enclosed bridge provides the comforts of home. This space has the same high-gloss walnut woodwork, fabrics and features found throughout the yacht. Dual fridge drawers are in an end table, reducing trips to the galley. An L-shaped settee with a wood coffee table is to port, and an interior curved staircase is nestled into the after corner, leading to the main deck.

One might think that getting a 90-foot yacht up to speed would take a minute. Not so. Hull No. 1 is powered with optional twin 2,635 hp MTU 16V 2000 M96L diesels, which provide a 38.2-knot top hop and the aforementioned 33-knot cruising speed, with a range of approximately 600 nautical miles. Standard powerplants are twin 1,925 hp Caterpillar C32A diesels.

In addition to having solid speed, this hefty 90-footer (with its 193,000-pound displacement) is nimble and responsive to wheel input in real time. Backing down, the 90 runs true and is agile, with the ability to spin in any direction on a dime. I noted limited splash and overflow into the cockpit as we ran several backing-down scenarios.

As I stepped into the main salon off the dual-level mezzanine, my eye was drawn to the wraparound galley to starboard. It has a backlit stone countertop and every appliance needed for formal meals or pre-fishing snacks: a four-burner electric cooktop, Sub-Zero fridges and freezers, and a dishwasher. Five fixed stools ring the L-shaped counter for casual dining with family and crew.

The 42-by-78-inch dining table to port is on a raised platform with an artfully crafted walnut-veneer centerpiece. An opposing walnut band separated by polished chrome inlays is ringed by high-gloss black paint.

Guests can relax after dinner in the U-shaped settee aft and to port, across from the 65-inch HDTV. Walnut and teak woods add a warm feeling to the interior spaces. Ultraleathers and fine fabrics are used on furnishings to create seating that’s soft, supple and tough to leave.

Outside is a serious setup for angling aficionados. The 224-square-foot cockpit (same size as on the Viking 92) is ready for battle with mammoth-size marlin, thanks to a fighting chair, a rocket launcher, a table or some other combination of an owner’s choosing. Twin 103-gallon in-deck refrigerated fish boxes can keep the bigeye cold, and a 203-gallon transom livewell is ready for the baits to stay frisky.

Many times, sport fishing is a spectator sport, and the Viking 90 accounts for that. The two-tiered mezzanine has three areas that allow the crew to keep an eye on the spread and for guests to watch the action. The lower section has a sofa on centerline. The upper area has an L-shaped settee to port with a teak table, and there is a cushioned bench to starboard. The latter two spaces are under the flybridge overhang, protected from the elements. Under each seat is stowage, either for fishing gear or cold drinks. Backrest air conditioning is available in the seating.

There is also a dedicated watertight hatch in the deck for a Seakeeper 35, allowing for easy maintenance or equipment swap-outs.

The Viking Yachts 90 Sky Bridge is an impressive vessel. All at once, it’s a bluewater-ready sport-fisher that can chase pelagics around the planet, a tournament contender that can accommodate a sizable crew, and a true yacht that offers a high level of luxury and relaxation when the day’s fishing is done.  

The Comfort Equation

According to Viking, each of the 90’s five guest staterooms and the crew quarters were analyzed inch by inch to maximize functionality. An elegantly appointed full-beam master stateroom is amidships with a king berth, a Jack-and-Jill head with a central shower stall, a vanity, a sofa, a maple-lined walk-in closet and a 65-inch TV. The forepeak VIP is en suite, with three more en suite guest staterooms between the VIP and the master. Crew quarters are aft.

The Hull Story

Enhanced lifting strakes, redesigned prop pockets and refined driveline components (custom struts and rudders) all add to the performance I experienced on board the Viking 90 Sky Bridge. Viking’s engineers got here via computational fluid dynamics that let them visualize the flow of water under the hull to optimize its form. This technology lets the builder’s team test multiple permutations much faster than traditional tank testing. 

Systems Management

The Viking 90 Sky Bridge’s power management and electrical controls are handled via an OctoPlex digital-switching system, which reduces wiring and allows for multiple displays throughout the yacht.

Take the next step: vikingyachts.com

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Take a sneak peek at the biggest and most expensive boats at 2024's Palm Beach yacht show

• The Palm Beach International Boat Show kicks off later this week.
• Eight megayachts are expected to be on display for would-be buyers and charter customers.
• These are the show's biggest yachts — and how many millions of dollars they are going for.

The Palm Beach International Boat Show — the yacht world's flashiest event stateside — is returning this year with over 800 boats for both deep-pocked potential owners and window shoppers to peruse.

While it's impossible to know what exactly will be on display until the show begins on Thursday, it's expected that eight megayachts — generally defined as ships over 60 meters long — will be docked at the show and at nearby marinas like the Rybovich Marina in the ritzy Florida town.

Some of these are for sale at eye-popping prices, but others are available to if in case you fancy living like a billionaire for a week or two this summer (and if you have six figures to spare on a vacation).

These are the eight biggest yachts that will be at the Palm Beach International Boat Show and nearby marinas, in size order.

Nero: 90.1 meters

Price: From $497,000 a week (charter)

Standout features: Pizza ovens, beauty salon, massage room, resistance pool

Reportedly owned by Irish billionaire Denis O'Brien, Nero is modeled after J.P. Morgan's 1930s ship , and was built in 2007 and updated in 2021.

She now boasts a gym on her sundeck with multiple cardio machines and a beauty salon, and has an on-board beautician for manicure, pedicure, hair, and massage needs. There's also an upgraded movie theater, two new pizza ovens, and both a pool and a jacuzzi.

For those who want to go overboard, she has more than a dozen toys, including a waterslide, Jet Ski, and flyboard.

Victorious: 85 meters

Price: From $876,600 a week in the summer and $950,000 a week in the winter

Standout features: Hammam (Turkish bath), wine cellar, wood-burning fireplace, children's playroom

Victorious brings a party vibe to the yacht show. With a beach club on board, a wine cellar, a cigar clubroom , multiple bars, and a lounge with a piano, the vessel is made for entertaining. Plus, there's a playroom and movie theater to entertain the kids.

For tamer charter clients, Victorious has a suite of wellness features such as a gym, massage room, beauty salon and hammam, or Turkish bath — perhaps a custom request of her owner, Turkish businessman Vural Ak.

She also boasts a treasure trove of water toys, including Jet Skis, jetsurfs, inflatable kayaks, and scuba equipment.

Casino Royale: 72 meters

Special Features: Infinity pool, helipad, private jacuzzi

Purchased and refitted by car dealer magnate John Staluppi last year, Casino Royale is the latest of his James Bond-inspired yachts (he's also owned an Octopussy and a Skyfall, among others).

Casino Royale has a helipad that turns into a dancefloor, an infinity pool, and a wellness center with a gym and sauna. The owner's cabin has its own deck, which features a private bar and jacuzzi.

However, the boat's price isn't listed, and while she's not necessarily officially for sale, that might change depending on who's prepared to buy, Mr. Bond.

Talisman C: 70.6 meters

Price: $60 million (or from $567,000 a week to charter)

Special features: Massage and beauty room, private library

Likely the largest yacht for sale (not just charter) at the show, the Talisman C is a 2011 six-bedroom boat. The owner's cabin comes with an en suite bathroom, dressing room, private library, and crystal chandeliers.

Amenities include a gym, a beauty room, oversized jacuzzi, and a fully equipped bar. Her crew of 19 includes a trained masseuse, and the toy room comes equipped with a wakeboard, eFoil , and WaveRunners.

Joy: 70 meters

Price: From $650,000 a week

Special features: Disco club, basketball court, onboard fitness instructor

Superyacht Joy testifies to the fact that owners want as many on-board experiences as they can get.

There's an expansive suite of fitness features, including a basketball court (don't shoot that hoop too hard!), a personal trainer on staff, boxing equipment, and a handful of machines. For post-workout winddowns, there's a spa with a steam room and onboard masseuse. And for entertainment, there's both an outdoor and indoor cinema, and a disco club.

Triumph: 65.4 meters

Price: From $707,600 a week in the summer and $650,000 a week in the winter

Special features: Sauna, helipad, banana boat

This 2021 superyacht is named after Triumph motorcycles — a reported favorite of her rumored owner, British businessman Chris Dawson — and even has one on display as an art piece in the upper deck's lounge. The primary suite is 1,400 square feet and has its own study , and there's a sauna, an indoor-outdoor gym, a helipad, and a massage room spread among her six decks.

She boasts an "armada of water toys," including two kinds of Jet Skis, electric water bikes, and a banana boat.

Seanna: 64.5 meters

Price: $54,000,000 (or from $462,000 a week to charter)

Special features: marble foyer, movie room, sundeck pool

The recently refurbished Seanna is available for sale and charter.

Her indoor-outdoor gym is on sea level so that passengers can take a dip after a session with the onboard personal trainer. There's also a sundeck pool, a helipad, a two-room massage facility, and, for the more cerebral guests, a library with an electric fireplace.

There are a number of toys on board, including a popular water trampoline and two WaveRunners.

Come Together: 60 meters

Price: $65,000,000

Special Features: DJ and videographer on board, ice bath, sauna

Next-to-new yacht Come Together is looking for a new owner after doing charters during the 2023 season.

The Beatles' influence is evident beyond the yacht's name, with guitars dotting the sky lounge and a crewmember who doubles as a DJ. There's also an outdoor cinema and bar for entertainment and an ice bath and sauna for the day after the party. The owner's suite has a private study and lounge, and each guest cabin has its own ensuite.

The sale includes a number of toys, like Jet Skis, kayaks, and Seabobs.

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River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

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Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

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28m Otam 90 GTS flagship prepares for launch

Construction on the 27.8-metre flagship Otam 90 GTS model is nearing completion, on track for its scheduled launch in May. 

The yacht's hull and superstructure were assembled in June 2023 at the Otam shipyard in Genoa, Italy, and the engines, generators and Arneson drives are ready for installation. The soon-to-be flagship of the yard’s Fast & Iconic series has a “big-boat mentality”, with a compact footprint and loadline measuring under 24 metres. 

The hull is made entirely with Aramat, a multi-layer composite fabric combining glass fibre and Kevlar for optimal stiffness, while the hard top is made with carbon fibre. With its lightweight composition and twin MTU engines, the Otam 90 GTS will be able to reach speeds in excess of 40 knots. Recent construction updates include the painting of the hull in silver metallic paint with bronze accents, developed by Awlgrip for the owner, who is adding the yacht to his current fleet.

The Otam 90 GTS series will be fully customisable at the engineering level, with options that include a hard top or soft top, full or half-height side windows, with or without a side passage door and a single or double hull window for the master suite. The flagship will be the semi-open version devised to accommodate a large number of guests onboard.

Exterior styling is owed to Giuseppe Bagnardi of BG Design Firm , who collaborated closely with Otam on the design. This has resulted in a build “rich in custom design details”, including a helm console inspired by the world of F1 racing cars.

Accommodation is comprised of a full-beam master suite, a VIP cabin and a guest cabin. There will also be a lounge, daybed and an office space below deck, while the main deck features a convivial cockpit with opening hard top, as well as a large sunbathing area aft and bathing platform. Further space for dining and relaxing can be found forward of this. 

“This project is generating a lot of interest because of her performance, the flexibility our custom approach offers and the fact that the yacht comes under the simpler regulations for vessels under 24 metres,” said Matteo Belardinelli, Otam’s sales and communications manager. “The Otam 90 GTS is yet another example of our mission to build extraordinary, high-performance yachts that are tailored to each owner’s personal requirements. We firmly believe that this bespoke approach is the highest expression of luxury.”

The Otam 90 GTS will make her world debut at the 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival. According to BOATPro , the Otam 80HT is currently also under construction, which will be delivered in time for the 2025 Mediterranean season.

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Florida reaches SEC final rallying from 18 down…

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Rep. carolina amesty notarized document that teacher says he never signed | special report, florida reaches sec final rallying from 18 down to beat texas a&m 95-90.

Texas A&M guard Manny Obaseki (35) goes in for a shot as Florida forward Thomas Haugh (10) defends during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game at the Southeastern Conference tournament Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Florida forward Alex Condon (21) pulls down a rebound infront of Texas A&M forward Wildens Leveque (10) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game at the Southeastern Conference tournament Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Florida head coach Todd Golden yells at an official during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Texas A&M at the Southeastern Conference tournament Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Florida forward Tyrese Samuel (4) goes up for a shot as Texas A&M forward Solomon Washington (13) defends during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game at the Southeastern Conference tournament Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Florida guard Zyon Pullin (0) is fouled by Texas A&M forward Tyler Ringgold (21) in the second half of an NCAA college basketball game at the Southeastern Conference tournament Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Texas A&M head coach Buzz Williams directs his team against Florida in the second half of an NCAA college basketball game at the Southeastern Conference tournament Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Texas A&M forward Andersson Garcia (11) is defended by Florida forward Thomas Haugh (10) and Alex Condon (21) as he goes up for a shot during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game at the Southeastern Conference tournament Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Florida forward Thomas Haugh (10) battles Texas A&M’s Andersson Garcia (11) and Hayden Hefner (2) under the basket during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game at the Southeastern Conference tournament Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Florida center Micah Handlogten (3) and Texas A&M forward Andersson Garcia (11) jockey for position under the basket during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game at the Southeastern Conference tournament Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Florida guard Will Richard (5) celebrates with his parents after the Gators defeeated Texas A&M in an NCAA college basketball game at the Southeastern Conference tournament Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Florida guard Denzel Aberdeen reacts as he leaves the court after the Gators defeated Texas A&M in an NCAA college basketball game at the Southeastern Conference tournament Saturday, March 16, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

By MARK McGEE (Associated Press)

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Denzel Aberdeen scored a career-high 20 points in helping Florida rally from an 18-point deficit and beat Texas A&M 95-90 at the Southeastern Conference Tournament semifinals on Saturday.

Florida coach Todd Golden called this a breakout game for Aberdeen.

“His teammates needed him the most, and he delivered for us,” Golden said. “And we don’t win this game without him, so great job Denzel.”

The sixth-seeded Gators (24-10) earned Florida’s first trip to the tournament finals since 2014. The Gators not only won the SEC, they reached the Final Four that year. They will play No. 12 Auburn, a 73-66 winner over Mississippi State, for the league’s automatic NCAA Tournament berth on Sunday.

Aberdeen led five Gators in double figures. Will Richard scored 19 followed by Walter Clayton, Jr., with 16. Zyon Pullin and Tyrese Samuel had 15 apiece.

Richard praised how hard Aberdeen has worked, never complaining about anything.

“So I’m not surprised to see him come out here to do this,” Richard said. “We’re just proud of him. Everybody believed in him, and we know what he can do. I’m just proud to see that come to fruition.”

Texas A&M (20-14), the No. 7 seed, scored the first five points of the game and led 40-22 with 5:20 left in the half. Coach Buzz Williams said the Aggies were a bit out of sorts down the stretch as he worried about not having someone pick up a third foul.

“We’re disappointed with the result, but we also don’t want to miss the lessons that transpired this month, for sure,” Williams said of his Aggies losing for the first time in March.

Wade Taylor IV paced Texas A&M with a game-high 30 points. Sol Washington and Tyrece Radford each scored 18 and Manny Obaseki added 12.

Florida rallied in the final 3:17 to cut in the lead down late in the first half, but Manny Obaseki’s layup with 6 seconds left gave Texas A&M a 50-42 halftime lead.

The Gators opened the second half with five straight points to get within 54-52. Clayton hit a 3-pointer with 13:11 remaining for a 59-58 lead that was their first of the game. Texas A&M tied it up at 70 and again at 72. Florida went on an 8-0 run to take the lead for good.

BIG PICTURE

Texas A&M: In the regular season, Texas A&M edged Florida 67-66 as only the second team to hold the Gators under 70 points. This was the third straight trip to the semifinals for Texas A&M. Buzz Williams is the third coach to win 20 games in three straight seasons with the Aggies.

Florida: This was the first trip to the semifinals for Florida since 2019. Florida has won three games in the tournament with an opening 85-80 win over No. 11-seed Georgia and a 102-88 romp over No. 3 Alabama. The Gators sealed the win over A&M by going 7-of-8 at the free throw line in the final 94 seconds.

Auburn lost at Florida 81-65 on Feb. 10.

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Indiana State, SMU square off in NIT

SMU Mustangs (20-12, 11-8 AAC) at Indiana State Sycamores (28-6, 19-4 MVC)

Terre Haute, Indiana; Wednesday, 7 p.m. EDT

BOTTOM LINE: Indiana State and SMU play in the National Invitation Tournament.

The Sycamores have gone 19-4 against MVC opponents, with a 9-2 record in non-conference play. Indiana State has a 2-0 record in games decided by less than 4 points.

The Mustangs are 11-8 against AAC teams. SMU is sixth in the AAC scoring 33.8 points per game in the paint led by Zhuric Phelps averaging 6.8.

Indiana State averages 84.4 points, 16.6 more per game than the 67.8 SMU allows. SMU averages 76.3 points per game, 4.3 more than the 72.0 Indiana State gives up.

TOP PERFORMERS: Isaiah Swope averages 3.3 made 3-pointers per game for the Sycamores, scoring 16.5 points while shooting 37.5% from beyond the arc. Robbie Avila is averaging 17.5 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.8 assists over the past 10 games.

Samuell Williamson is averaging 8.6 points and 7.3 rebounds for the Mustangs. Ricardo Wright is averaging 2.0 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Sycamores: 7-3, averaging 80.3 points, 34.9 rebounds, 17.6 assists, 5.7 steals and 1.9 blocks per game while shooting 49.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 72.1 points per game.

Mustangs: 5-5, averaging 78.0 points, 40.2 rebounds, 15.7 assists, 8.5 steals and 4.6 blocks per game while shooting 42.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 75.7 points.

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .