Leapher Yachts have unveiled luxury 49.2m (161’4″) explorer yacht NAVIX50, a ground breaking yacht which blends unparalleled performance, luxurious comfort, and environmental responsibility. The project is the result of a collaboration between Leapher in The Netherlands and design firm AB Yacht Design.

Superyacht NAVIX50 is a more compact evolution of NAVIX 60, the shipyard previous design, and is characterised by robust construction, exceptional range and innovative design, providing a superior adventure experience while maintaining luxury and performance.

“The NAVIX50 embodies our philosophy of creating vessels that excel in any environment,” said Yiannis, CEO of Leapher Yachts. “From the Drake Passage to the coast of St. Tropez, this yacht redefines what’s possible in the sub-500GT category. It offers unparalleled versatility and luxury while maintaining an attractive value proposition for seasoned owners.”

The elongated main deck aft gives the yacht the recognisable explorer profile and includes a luxurious heated 5.5m x 2.7 pool with contra-flow system. The water’s edge oasis also boasts folding sides, a sunbathing area and direct access to the sea with two wet bars. On the sun deck there is a jacuzzi forward surrounded by sun pads, sheltered dining amidships and aft sunbeds.

Luxury living includes six spacious guest cabins, with options for a seventh cabin or expanded sky lounge. The main deck’s guest cabin space can be customized into a gym, wellness area, or extended master suite. The owner’s stateroom includes a super king-size bed and ample wardrobe space, with an option for aft facing on the upper deck. Fully accessibility throughout with a wheelchair-accessible lift, the design ensures seamless movement throughout, enhancing privacy by minimizing friction between guests and crew.

The steel hull with Ice Class certification and aluminium superstructure are accompanied by innovative engineering which ensures efficient and reliable performance with fast docking and ample storage for 8.6-meter and 4.5-meter tenders. Power comes from Tier III compliant engines which deliver a top speed of 14.5 knots and a range of 5,500 nautical miles at 10 knots.

“The NAVIX50 is more than just a yacht; it’s a floating villa designed for those who see the world as their playground,” said Aristotelis Betsis, Owner of AB Yacht Design. “Leapher Yachts has a philosophy on how life at sea should be, making the yacht a central piece of their lives.”

The design team’s philosophy was to combine the durability and technology of commercial and military maritime systems with the luxury experienced on a superyacht. The result is a yacht comfortable both exploring extreme environments or anchoring off the coast of St. Tropez. She redefines what is possible in the 500GT explorer yacht market, setting new standards for adventure and elegance.

Established in 2024, the Croatian Yachting Association (CROYA) have announced the first ever CROYA Charter Show, to be held in Split, Croatia from 4th to 6th October 2024 as part of the city’s annual Nautical Festival.

The show will present some of the finest crewed charter yachts available in Croatia and shine a spotlight on the multitude of beautiful cruising destinations, anchorages and attractions the country has to offer. The yacht’s lining up with include Croatian based motor yachts, sailing yachts, motor sailers and gulets from the luxury segment of the charter industry. Guests will have the opportunity to inspect a wide range of vessels, meet Captains and crew and taste exquisite culinary offers from the yacht chefs.  CharterWorld will be represented by our brokers and motor yacht ANNABEL II – a 30.48 m (100′) Horizon yacht launched in 2009 with accommodation for up to ten guests.

Chefs will also be challenged in the Chef’s Competition – a wonderful addition to any yacht show. Competitors will be asked to present an innovative approach to Croatian cuisine and will be judged by Mike Jennings, a Michelin-trained; Ino Kuvačić, author of ‘Dalmatia: Recipes from Croatia’s Mediterranean Coast’; and a surprise Croatian chef who will be revealed shortly. The show also aims to shine a light on marine environmental issues, particularly plastic waste, by hosting the CYBA Designer Water Competition which will see yachts and crews produce and serve their own drinking water in innovative, health-enhancing and delicious ways.

Organised in partnership with the Croatian National Tourist Board, with strong support from the Ministry of Tourism & Sport plus local town and country authorities, the show presents great networking opportunities at a number of social events including an opening and closing reception.

CharterWorld’s pick of attending yachts

Motor sailing yacht LADY GITA | 49.26m (161′ 7″) | 2019 | 12 guests

Classic and elegant yacht with contemporary charter facilities including a spectacular sun deck experience, versatile cabin configuration and great collection of water toys.

Motor sailing yacht ANIMA MARIS | 49.00m (160′ 9″) | 2021 | 12 guests

Deluxe superyacht with fabulous sun deck, elegant deck furnishings and a huge water’s edge swim platform. An elegant open plan main salon is the hub of the interior and six luxury ensuite staterooms on the lower deck.

Motor yacht CRISTAL | 48.90 m (160′ 5″) | 2018 | 30 guests

The yacht offers a wonderful choice of dining and entertainment space, plus lounges, a luxury jacuzzi surrounded by sun pads, bars and sun loungers. Having been refitted in 2023 everything is pristine and perfect for large charter groups in the 15 suites which can accommodate up to 30 guests.

Motor sailing yacht NOCTURNO | 48.20m (158′ 2″) | 2023 | 12 guests

Superb motor sailer with impressive deck spaces including a sociable sun deck with jacuzzi, lounge and bar plus sun pads, stylish hotel-quality interior and six beautiful suites – the master even boasts an in-room massage tub.

Motor yacht FREEDOM | 48.20m (158’13”) | 2019 | 23 guests

Sensational tri-deck motor yacht with extensive interior and exterior guest space, upper deck jacuzzi, spa with sauna and massage room plus accommodation for up to 23 guests in 11 suites.

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Split is a beautiful and vibrant city to visit, with the event being an unmissable opportunity for industry professionals to update their knowledge and experience the best the Croatian yacht charter market has to offer.

CROYA was established by a dedicated group of yachting industry professionals with leading charter and yacht service agencies in Croatia and is committed to elevating the Croatian yachting industry.

With excellent feedback, the 50m Benetti motor yacht SEAGULL MRD offering a 15% discount for charters in the Western Mediterranean. With beautiful modern interiors and stylish exterior lines, she can host up to 12 charter guests overnight and has a professional and friendly crew of 9.

“An amazing crew, and nothing was too much trouble. The food has been sensational – our compliments to the chef. Captain was very inclusive and visible which is unusual and very refreshing. A fabulous experience.”

The interior of this luxury yacht is as generous and stylish as its exterior, offering guests an array of inviting spaces to relax and socialize. The sky lounge on the upper deck features elegantly curved sofas and chairs, perfect for lounging, along with a sleek sit-up bar to enjoy drinks. This area exudes comfort and sophistication, making it an ideal spot for gatherings. Just forward of the sky lounge, you’ll find a day head for convenience, the captain’s accommodation, and a spacious VIP cabin, ensuring that both relaxation and privacy are well-catered to on this level.

The yacht boasts six elegant and comfortable cabins, each featuring private ensuite bathroom facilities, providing guests with a tranquil retreat after a day filled with excitement and adventure. With a vast selection of water toys at their disposal, guests can indulge in thrilling activities before returning to the comfort of their cabins. For those looking to unwind, the yacht offers numerous inviting spaces, including al fresco dining areas perfect for enjoying meals under the stars, sunbathing spots for soaking up the rays, and a luxurious Jacuzzi on the sun deck for ultimate relaxation.

Launched in 2020, SEAGULL MRD is based in the Mediterranean.

Packed with fabulous charter features 31.27m (102′ 7″) Azimut motor yacht CARPE DIEM travels with a 43’ chase boat making trips ashore luxurious, and water sports a must. The extensive al fresco deck spaces, sundeck jacuzzi and water’s edge beach club are perfect for families, while the stylish interior and main deck master will make guests feel comfortable and welcomed.

Guests can spend days up on the sun deck, enjoying leisurely meals, drinks at the bar and reclining in the jacuzzi. The foredeck is vast with sofas and sunpads filling the space as it slopes down to the bow. She carries an extensive range of water toys which the crew will set up from the beach area created when the transom door is opened – this also reveals a delightful beach club with seating.

The light and bright main salon is a relaxing haven away from the sun with both a lounge and dining area. The huge floor to ceiling windows allow the light in and offer great views and connections with the surroundings. Staterooms on the main and lower decks offer luxury accommodation for up to nine guests.

If you are dreaming of a luxury vacation, away from it all, in the fabulous Bahamas, then look no further than a charter on board luxury yacht CARPE DIEM this winter. The Bahamas offers the perfect introduction to chartering but has so much to do for experienced travellers, plus the weather is perfect and the anchorages are safe and protected.

Amels have announced that their latest 80m (261 ft) Limited Edition superyacht AMELS 8002 has been moved from the hull building facility in Galatz, Romania to Vlissingen in the Netherlands for outfitting. She is a collaboration between naval architect Damen Yachting, exterior design by Espen Øino and interior design Sinot Yacht Architecture and Design.

She joins her sister vessel, AMELS 8001, who is already undergoing outfitting ahead of her deliver to her owner. These two yachts represent Amel’s commitment to customisation, technology and efficiency which has attracted diverse owners. AMELS 8002 will have accommodation for fourteen guests and twenty crew plus the captain.

“We are thrilled to commence the outfitting phase for this new Amels 80, which arrived from our Galatz shipyard in Romania,” says Jan van Hogerwou, Damen Yachting’s Commercial Executive. “This is an exciting step towards delivering another exceptional yacht on schedule for May 2026.”

We will keep you up to date with the progress of both AMELS 8001 and AMELS 8002. Amels are well known for building some of the greatest superyachts in the world, and our team of brokers can help you with information about those available for charter. Get in touch with us now.

The latest masterpiece from Nautor Swan is the 23.20m (76’ 1”) motor yacht SOLLE ONE, from their flagship Swan Arrow series. She was launched this week before making her debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2024.

The project is an inspiring collaboration between Jarkko Jämsén –Nautor Swan’s resident motor yacht designer – and Ioanna Marinopoulou and Axel de Beaufort – responsible for the interior design. Initially meant as a chase boat, the result is now a magnificent open yacht blending sporty elegance with functionality ideal for extended cruising adventures.

“We set out to maximise the sensation and enjoyment of being on the water and being outdoors,” says Jarkko Jämsén.

The yacht is characterised by the walk-around deck design and the fabulous elevated 50sqm beach club featuring a fold out terrace on each side and gentle steps up to the cockpit. The semi open cockpit boasts an opening roof and sliding door system to create an al fresco lounge. Alternatively when the doors and roof are closed, the space becomes a cosy and private salon, protected from the elements.

The homely interior includes three lower deck ensuite cabins to accommodate up to six guests and a dedicated galley. The aft master suite is full beam with a walk-in closed and ensuite, while the VIP and twin also benefit from private ensuite bathroom facilities. Further forward, with separate access is a twin bunk cabin for the crew. An alternative layout replaces the twin guest suite with a lower deck lounge.

Nautor Swan’s Motoryacht Commercial Director, Roy Capasso commented, “When staring the Swan Arrow project we began with attentively listening to our clients and a details analysis of the market. The results, together with the creativity of our designers and the expertise of a qualified team, have allowed us to introduce a new concept with some features missing in motor yachts of this size.”

Performance comes from twin or triple Volvo Penta engines which can deliver top speeds of up to 40 knots.

After showing at the Cannes Yachting Festival she will be at the Salone Nautico in Genoa in late September.

Nautor Swan are renowned for their sailing yachts, many of which are available for charter or competing, so we look forward to seeing more examples of their new motor yacht series.

Heesen has announced the launch and naming of 55m (180’5”) superyacht SERENA (previously YN 20555) with the owner and family in attendance at the ceremony last week. She is from the prestigious shipyard’s 55 class and features naval architecture from Luca Dini Design and Architecture.

Her owner has been involved since construction began in Spring of 2022 and, as an experienced yacht owner, was clear on their goal of creating a homely and welcoming interior that would be comfortable for long periods on board. The result was a focus on seating arrangements, the comfort of the couches and the practicality of luxurious yet user-friendly materials. Everything has been designed for optimal relaxation.

The layout is centred around the impressive atrium which spans three decks and creates a surreal and magical atmosphere adorned with John Pomp’s hand-blown glass and hand-sculpted metal light fixtures. The bar areas are key to the design, with the bronze-finished main deck bar being adjacent to the sliding doors to serve both the terrace and salon. The sky lounge is the hub of indoor social life and entertainment including a bar made from hammered bronze, a custom games table and comfortable seating for watching movies or relaxing.

The interior décor features an array of luxurious finishes including light wood, velvet, smoked eucalyptus, bronze and leather, softened by beautiful fabrics and upholstery. Amozonite marble inlays and chevron patterned wood panels enhance the vertical surfaces and add drama and colour.

Luxury yacht SERENA can accommodate 12 guests in five cabins across the main and lower decks. The owners’ apartment is located on the main deck forward and feature a lounge and office space, a generous full‐beam cabin with a veranda, two ‘his and hers’ walk‐in closets, and a grand bathroom. The four lower deck guest staterooms are configured as two doubles and two twins (with additional Pullman beds). Each cabin boasts a private en‐suite bathroom with coloured marble unique to each cabin. The bridge deck includes a gym that can be easily retrofitted into a cabin if needed.

Highlights on board include a 110sqm sun deck with flexible furniture arrangements perfect for every occasion, a custom jacuzzi and a serene forward seating area from where guests can enjoy the views of the surroundings. The beach club benefits from being illuminated by natural light from two glass portholes and is decorated to resemble a waters-die salotto. A premium sauna has elegant wood finishes and a huge glass door. The tender and toys are conveniently stored on the main deck forward and include a state-of-the-art tender and jet skis – which can be launched using the crane.

Aptly named SERENA, Heesen Project Manager Eric Molegraaf describes the yacht as, “one of the most serene yachts we have ever built”. He continued, “Thanks to the owner’s clear ideas on the yacht’s intended use, their knowledge of life at sea, and their awareness of their needs made decision -making easy and serene. The team translated the client’s wishes into beautiful designs”.

Power comes from two MTU 8V 4000 M63 (IMO Tier III) engines which deliver a top speed of 15.5 knots with a range of 4,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 13 knots.

Her construction showcases collaboration, innovation and personalised luxury – a significant achievement in the design and construction of a yacht of this size. She is due to be delivered in November 2024.

If you are interested in finding out more about Heesen’s yachts that can be chartered, please contact our professional team.

Van der Valk Shipyard have shared details of the in-build 35m (114’10”) explorer yacht SAMBA – a custom all-aluminium tri-deck yacht designed by Guido de Groot in close collaboration with the owners. The design focusses on outdoor leisure to accommodate three generations of the owner’s family who will enjoy extended stays on board.

Inspired by Van der Valk’s LADY LENE, the owner requested an expansive aft deck for entertaining and a beach club. The results are deck spaces which include relaxation zones, al fresco dining and a water’s edge paradise including a chill-out zone, luxurious sauna and steam room and a large swim platform. The indoor/outdoor flow is enhanced by glass doors, continuous flooring and carefully curated furnishings.

Van der Valk head of sales Yoeri Bijker explains. “The owners of SAMBA have chosen to make the most of the engineering and naval architecture package we developed for Lady Lene. Her successful underwater design has been transformed into a fast displacement hull for Samba, with twin MAN 1450 hp diesels offering an expected top speed of around 17 knots. Leveraging on a proven-in-practice platform in this way is a highly efficient way of building while offering total freedom to customise above the waterline.”

The team have developed the exterior profile with rhythmic lines, complex surfaces and sculptural elements to deliver this fabulous explorer look.

De Groot commented, “This project is an enjoyable challenge, and it is a pleasure to work with clients so invested in their yacht on a personal level. SAMBA is an excellent example of why people who appreciate a bespoke building process choose to work with us and Van der Valk.”

The interior design and layout will also reflect the family ambiance onboard SAMBA, continues De Groot. “Warm earthy tones will generate a lived-in feel with respect to detailing; never fancy or flashy, the yacht will have a pretty and practical style. Superior finishing will be combined with durability in a relaxed and calm environment that will be very pleasing on the eye.”

A central lobby has a feature staircase with a single column moving through the yacht from lower to bridge deck. From here guests can easily enjoy the interior spaces throughout. The galley has been designed for use by the family and has lots of working space and an island giving it a homely feel.

The master stateroom is also on the main deck and includes an office and a lounge seat for the owners to relax and read books as they like to do onshore. A large bathroom arrangement with a separate toilet and shower makes smart use of sliding doors to make the suite feel larger. His & her walk-in wardrobes with lots of storage will further support long-term residency.

On the lower deck are two VIPs and two twin suites with their own entrance lobbies.

The crew space is equally well configured with cabins below deck for the crew and on the bridge deck for the captain. Everything has been meticulously considered to ensure the owners, their family, their guests and all crew members will embrace life on board luxury yacht SAMBA.

She is due to be launched in summer 2025.

Abeking & Rasmussen‘s 41-meter superyacht Nurja (previously known as Silver Cloud) has been relaunched after an extensive refit at her home shipyard. Originally delivered in 1998, the vessel underwent a significant transformation at the shipyard where she was first built. The refit focused on modernizing the yacht’s systems, updating her exteriors and interiors, and enhancing her overall performance.

As the images showcase, in addition to the new exterior repaint featuring grey hues, the yacht had an extension to the aft section of the sun deck, creating additional dining and relaxation areas.

With her fresh new exterior look and improved functionality, NURJA is now ready to sail once more in luxury and style. The successful relaunch marks a new chapter for this extremely stable and seaworthy SWATH (Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull) superyacht.

Watch video by DrDuu capturing newly-refitted NURJA

View more information and photos of NURJA here.

Aegean Yachts have proudly announced the launch of 26m (85’3″) motor yacht HEKATE, the second hull in the Aegean Explorer series. She is a meticulously crafted explorer yacht with robust steel hull and aluminium superstructure. Incredibly stable, with a 187GT volume she offers comfort on long voyages in challenging waters.

Accommodation on board is for up to twelve guests and has a unique configuration which includes three master suites, each on a different deck, providing extraordinary levels of privacy and space -the upper deck master even has a private exterior terrace. As well as the master suites there are two twin cabins and a VIP suite on the lower deck, all beautifully designed with guest comfort in mind.

The interior makes the most of every inch of space on board and is decorated with a lovely balance of materials including matte-finished lime-washed oak, white lacquer and stainless steel, making the space elegant and inviting throughout.

The crew facilities and amenities are equally well considered with the galley being ideal for extended cruising thanks to the ample storage. The four crew cabins are well-appointed, with ensuite facilities, ensuring the crew are comfortable and rested on long voyages so they can deliver premium service.

Performance comes from twin 650 HP MAN engines and two KOHLER 35kW generators, which deliver a top speed of 12.7 knots with a range of 3,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 9.5 knots.

Luxury explorer yacht HEKATE will be showcased at the Cannes Yachting Festival from 10-15 September and the Monaco Yacht Show between 25-28 September. She is immediately ready to cruise and awaits her new owner.