German shipyard Lürssen has successfully launched the 146m/479ft luxury mega yacht PROJECT OPERA from its facilities in Bremen. She was captured by avid yacht spotter and photographer DrDuu. 

M/Y PROJECT OPERA is believed to be the replacement yacht for the same-sized mega yacht PROJECT SASSI, which was destroyed by a fire at the shipyard in 2018. Europe’s largest floating dock (290m/951.5ft long, 53m/174ft wide and 51m/167ft tall) was employed to bring PROJECT OPERA to the Bremen facilities back in May 2021.

PROJECT OPERA is built with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure with naval architecture from the shipyard. She has a 20m/65.7ft beam and comes in at 11999 GT.

Few details have been revealed in regard to the styling and amenities aboard the luxury yacht PROJECT OPERA, however, exterior shots reveal a foredeck helipad and a second one on the sundeck aft, a Jacuzzi and sunbeds forward and a cavernous beach club attached to a generous lower deck swim platform. Two stairways sweep up to the main deck two floors above and a swimming pool behind the observation area along the stern.

M/Y PROJECT OPERA is one of four mega yachts currently under construction at Lürssen, the others being 145m/475.8ft luxury yacht LUMINANCE due for launch later in 2022, 122m/400ft JAG in 2023 and 137m/449.5ft ALIBABA in 2024.

Sea trials are expected shortly for PROJECT OPERA, with delivery taking place before the end of 2022.

Myriad biomes cover the Americas, and the transitioning seasons bring out the best in these destinations for a luxury yacht charter: See the changing colours in Maine, cruise to Alaska by explorer yacht to see the calving glaciers and rugged wilds, or head to the warm and ever-vibrant Caribbean and Bahamas.

Of all the charter yachts available in the Americas, some are more statement-making than others, and the list below celebrates some of the most spectacular builds of recent years for a celebration like no other to see out the end of the year.

Project X

There’s no mistaking 88m/288.9ft motor yacht PROJECT X from Golden Yachts: A criss-cross design covers the windows amidships on three of the decks. Traditional and contemporary elements blend together in the exterior appearance, and the same could be said of her interiors: Lavish open spaces furnished in natural materials and neo-classical shapes in neutral tones. Floor-to-ceiling windows and carefully placed artificial lighting bring out the quality in the social areas, filled with colourful artwork and a grand piano in the main salon and a bar in the sky lounge.

While guests will be impressed with the sculptural surroundings, M/Y PROJECT X comes with an impressive selection of amenities: Status as an Approved RYA Water Sports Centre, a helipad, sundeck Jacuzzi, library, office/conference room with a separate secretary’s office, plus a beach club complete with sauna, Hammam, massage room, TV lounge and bar.

The accommodation sleeps 12 guests over 9 en-suite cabins (each with its own colour scheme), and a professional crew of 28 for effortless service and organisation. View more about Project X…

Victorious

The 85m/278.10ft superyacht VICTORIOUS by Turkish shipyard Akyacht has bold military styling and an outward colour scheme to match… but her interiors tell a completely different story. Warm and welcoming earthy tones come from an extensive selection of different wood varieties, set off by marbling patterns repeated in the surroundings.

Indulgences are everywhere, with a large, contemporary selection of water toys to complement her status as an Approved RYA Water Sports Centre, a children’s playroom, cinema, beach club with pool, a wellness centre comprised of a beauty salon, massage room, sauna and hammam, a sundeck with fireplace, humidor and wine cellar, plus a bridge deck Master suite with private Jacuzzi and a second Jacuzzi on the upper deck aft.

The accommodation provides for up to 12 guests across 6 lavish en-suite staterooms, and there is a professional crew of 26 on hand to see to all requests. View more info about the yacht Victorious…

Kensho

Admiral superyacht KENSHO has a futuristic appearance with its silvery blue paint job, clean lines and inverse bow. What awaits within is a serene retreat with a Far East theme, found in the little details such as the embossed wall panels, painted sliding doors and pottery on display. Lighting is used to great effect, stealing guests away from the panoramic exterior views for an intimate atmosphere after dark.

When guests are on board, they have at their disposal a well-equipped gym, 6m/19.8ft swimming pool, and plenty of water toys for this yacht with Approved RYA Water Sports Centre status. Breaking from the traditional main deck salon layout, both salons are placed forward and aft on the upper deck, the former providing 180° views.

The 8 well-proportioned en-suite cabins sleep up to 12 guests, and the crew quarters provide for 23. View more about yacht KENSHO…

Triumph

Luxury yacht TRIUMPH from renowned Italian shipyard Benetti has everything required for a sensational special event charter and family gatherings with an air of sophistication. This 65.4m/214.7ft vessel is packed with a wellness centre, sauna and massage room, a cinema projector, video conference feature, helipad, sundeck Jacuzzi and an abundance of outdoor lounging and sunbathing spots, including a 70m²/753ft² beach club.

The accommodation provides for up to 12 guests in 6 en-suite cabins, with a crew of 16 to see to all the details. View more about yacht TRIUMPH…

Lemon Tree

Motor yacht Lemon Tree celebrates life in the sunshine with several ample spaces dedicated to alfresco living. The flush foredeck is one such example, boasting uninterrupted views for the Owner and the group as they rest on the sunbeds or soak in the Jacuzzi. A second Jacuzzi pool is placed on the main deck aft, and the selection of water toys has an emphasis on adrenaline-fuelled fun with jet skis, flyboards, jetboards and more aboard the RYA Approved Water Sports Centre.

The accommodation sleeps 12 guests in 7 en-suite cabins, plus a crew of 16. View more info about LEMON TREE yacht…

Top Five II

Royal Hakvoort has created a more traditional appearance in 61m/200.2ft expedition yacht TOP FIVE II, however, her interiors and technology are cutting edge for comfort and entertainment while cruising to some of the world’s remotest locations. Her ice class hull gives access to the polar regions, and during the journey, guests have a media room, comprehensively equipped gym, a sky lounge designed for social gatherings with impressive AV systems and a wet bar, plus a private lounge for the Owners.

The accommodation sleeps up to 12 guests across 6 en-suite cabins with the media room convertible to an additional cabin. The crew of 19 will ensure that every detail is taken care of throughout the journey. More details about TOP FIVE II yacht …

Come Together

60m/196.10ft motor yacht COME TOGETHER is the first hull in the re-envisioned Amels 60 Limited Editions model. The golden hues of the interiors echo the champagne colour of the hull, forming a homely ambience for guests to rest at ease wherever they travel. The amenities include a large collection of water toys, a beach club with a gym and sauna, a sundeck with a Teppanyaki grill, outdoor cinema, a Jacuzzi and bar, plus a private 7m²/75ft² fold-down terrace off the Owner’s suite.

It’s the talented crew of 14 that make life on board such a luxurious experience, with a yoga instructor, personal trainer and DJ to accompany the accomplished chef. The guest accommodation sleeps 12 over 6 beautifully appointed en-suite cabins for the perfect night’s rest after an adventure-filled day in the Caribbean. Continue for more details about COME TOGETHER…

Moskito

Bannenberg & Rowell designed the understated modern interiors for everyday living aboard 55m/180.5ft M/Y MOSKITO, yet the luxuries aboard this Heesen vessel are far from mundane: The lower deck relaxation area hosts a sauna and steam room as well as a spacious beach club, status as an Approved RYA Water Sports Centre and a long list of water toys to fill every day of a charter. The accommodation sleeps 12 guests in 6 en-suite cabins, plus a crew of 13.

Of note is the transatlantic range of 4,500 nautical miles, meaning that charterers can cruise far and wide throughout the Caribbean- Bahamas and Bermuda without interrupting the itinerary for refuelling. View details about superyacht MOSKITO…

Artisan

Benetti luxury yacht ARTISAN was built in 2019 and refitted in 2022, returning her to as-new condition for her Owner and lucky guests. The fifth level has a fully-equipped gym and yoga deck, with wheelchair accessibility from the lower deck to the sundeck. M/Y ARTISAN has Status as an Approved RYA Water Sports Centre to complement the large selection of water toys, and when guests want to rest outdoors there is a spa pool, bar, barbeque, and heating on the upper deck aft for cool evenings.

The accommodation sleeps 12 guests across 6 en-suite cabins, with a professional crew of 15 to provide impeccable service. Find out more about luxurious ARTISAN…

Discover more luxury yachts available in the Caribbean charter grounds, and plan your dream getaway in time for the festive season.

Sarp Yachts has delivered the first hull in its XSR 85 series, which has been christened luxury yacht EDGE and premiered at the Cannes Yachting Festival.

Known as HULL NB201 during construction, M/Y EDGE was built with a Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) designed by Van Oossanen Naval Architects and has a composite hull and carbon fibre superstructure.

EDGE sports a distinctive orange hull and black and white superstructure that has earned her a nomination for the Boat International Design & Innovation Awards in the ‘Best New Series’ and ‘Best Exterior Design’ categories. Guests are treated to a flybridge dining and lounging area, a second dining area at the sheltered main deck cockpit, and a stepped beach club area down the stern offering plenty of room for sunbathing and enjoying the views.

The interior from Red Line is contemporary, using strong contrasts and understated accents for alluring living spaces.

The accommodation sleeps up to 9 guests and a crew of 4, while her standard propulsion package grants her a top speed of 21 knots and a cruising range of 1,000 nautical miles at 12 knots.

Built on speculation, superyacht EDGE is currently available for sale at €4.45 million.

When it comes to brand-new yacht launches, superyacht JEWELS certainly stands out with her striking turquoise hull and lovely white superstructure. Built by Turquoise Yachts and measuring 53m in length, her exterior and interior areas are spacious and well balanced, her striking exterior lines are sharp, yet elegant and the overall feel is that of a true luxury on the sea.

She was launched on the 19th of August at the Pendik shipyard in presence of her owners, guests and the Turquoise team, with a celebration themed in gold and glamour. She was showcasing her beautiful exteriors created by the Miami-based DeBasto Design while her inviting deluxe interiors by the London-based studio, H2 Yacht Design.

Accommodation on board is spacious and well placed, allowing for impressive 8 + 1 guest staterooms. This is well balanced with amazing exterior deck areas, designed to entertain large groups but also cater for smaller, more intimate get-togethers on board. The sun deck boast such popular amenities as a hot tub, sun pads, TV, day head and plenty of open space. Easy access to the water has been created thanks to the generous swim platform from where guests can enjoy an array of water toys.

Coming back to the accommodation, the owner stateroom and the VIP suite are both located on the main deck forward. Guest and crew walkways are completely separated, allowing guests great privacy while on board. There is additional accommodation for her professional crew of 10 which has been placed on the lower deck, while the Captain’s cabin is located on the upper deck next to the pilothouse.

Five guest cabins are placed on the lower deck where there is the beach club area, which can be turned into another guest cabin. Back on the main deck, in addition to the fun beam owner cabin and VIP cabin, there is the large main saloon with an elegant dining area. Extra two cabins between the bridge and the upper saloon offer further accommodation, adding up to 18 guests in total.

JEWELS is powered by two Caterpillar C32 1300bhp engines and has two CAT 7.1 150 kW generators, reaching a top speed of 15 knots. Her tenders and toys include one luxury tender (6.3m / 21 ft), one rescue tender (4.3m / 14 ft), and two Jet Skis and Seabobs.

For the rest of September 2022, the 35m/115.4ft luxury yacht MINOR FAMILY AFFAIR (ex.EL GUAJIRO) is available for South of France charters at a reduced rate.

Built by Princess in 2017, motor yacht MINOR FAMILY AFFAIR has effortless contemporary style inside and out. Guests have a large main salon and dining area to begin the day, where fold-down side balconies give indoor/outdoor flow along with uninterrupted views of the destination.

Cruise from Marseille and the Calanques National Park to the Principality of Monaco for yacht shows, regattas and a more relaxed atmosphere when shopping and taking in the cultural sights. Play along the beaches of Corsica, dine along the shores at sunset and head back on board for drinks alfresco in one of the plush seating areas, or in the tempting flybridge Jacuzzi. Whatever your reason for a last-minute break, MINOR FAMILY AFFAIR will reward you with comfort, serenity, and plenty of entertainment options for your satisfaction.

Stored on board is a great selection of water toys for the whole family, and the collection includes:

1 x iAQUA submersible scooter
2 x paddleboards
wakeboards
water skis
snorkelling equipment, and
inflatable and towable toys

The accommodation sleeps a total of 9 guests over 4 en-suite cabins: 1 Master suite, 1 VIP stateroom and 2 double cabins. The Master suite is placed on the main deck forward, while the full-beam VIP stateroom on the lower deck can be partitioned to create an additional cabin for a nanny or child from the lounge. Throughout the cruise, there will be a professional crew of 6 on hand to provide impeccable service.

Discover more of Princess superyacht, MINOR FAMILY AFFAIR.

Claim 10% off your September or October 2022 Greece luxury yacht charter with the beautiful 35.6ft/117ft motor sailer IRAKLIS L.

Built in 2009 and refitted in 2018, M/S IRAKLIS L has a graceful traditional appearance that makes cruising through the rich cultural heritage of the Eastern Mediterranean charter grounds even more memorable. Large open interiors, pale furnishings and plenty of natural light create a desirable space to spend cooler evenings together catching up and planning for the next day’s adventures. Dine together at the intimate circular table within the main salon, or head outside for the fresh sea air and sweeping views from beneath the canvas-covered cockpit.

Cruise to the beautiful Ionian Islands and discover lesser-known wonders like Kythira along with the more famous destinations of Zakynthos, Lefkada and Corfu. The further east you travel, the more the warmth of summer lingers; and for this reason alone, the Cyclades are a popular choice for beachside barbeques, sunbathing and partying day or night. Santorini is a fantastic choice for nightlife, shopping, culture and marine life, with the sunken caldera hiding some amazing snorkelling and Scuba diving sites.

The Saronic islands close to Athens provide a peaceful getaway for groups looking for quality time together in nature, and the Dodecanese is a place to step back in time and soak up the marvels of ages past. When the day is done, return to rest on the sunbeds while you crew takes care of all the arrangements.

There is a great selection of water toys available, and the collection includes:

1 x Waverunner
water skis
fishing gear
snorkelling equipment, and
inflatable and towable toys

Additional toys are available on request, such as Scuba diving equipment, a SeaDoo underwater scooter, a canoe, a sailing boat and windsurf.

The accommodation sleeps up to 12 guests over 6 en-suite cabins: 1 Master suite, 1 VIP stateroom, 2 double cabins with a sofa/single bed, 1 double cabin and 1 twin cabin. The professional crew of 6 will ensure that every guest receives first-class service throughout the cruise.

View more of superyacht IRAKLIS L and secure your preferred dates for this offer today.

The 34m/111.7ft superyacht CORNELIA is offering 25% off luxury yacht charters in the Western Mediterranean from the 20th of September.

Built by RMK Marine in 2006 and last refitted in 2020, the motor yacht CORNELIA has timeless styling for adventures in the Mediterranean. Wood-panelled minimalist surroundings place the attention on the social occasion, whether enjoying a getaway break with friends or a multi-generational family celebration.

Pass the time between destinations with coffee mornings on the main deck aft, or watch a film together in comfort within the main salon. After sundown, settle into the sky lounge for close conversation over drinks from the bar.

There is a great collection of water toys along for the cruise, and the collection includes:

2 x Tiwal sailing dinghies
2 x F5 Seabobs
2 x stand-up paddleboards
1 x kneeboard
a wakeboard
water skis
snorkelling equipment, and
inflatable and towable toys

The accommodation sleeps up to 9 guests over 4 en-suite cabins: 1 Master suite, 1 double cabin and 2 twin cabins, one of which has an additional Pullman berth.

Luxury yacht CORNELIA will be available in the South of France, the Italian Riviera, Corsica and Sardinia.

View more of M/Y CORNELIA.

Dutch shipyard Van der Valk has announced the successful launch of 33.7m/110.8ft motor yacht BLUE JEANS, sporting a stylish blue hull and superstructure befitting of her name.

Diana Yacht Design was responsible for her naval architecture, while Guido de Groot has created her stunning appearance inside and out: As beautiful as M/Y/ BLUE JEANS is on the outside, the detail and quality craftsmanship of her interiors will truly enchant those who step aboard. Various marbles, metals and wood come together to make a harmonious interior that plays with light, and the ceiling height of almost 2.5m/8.2ft makes for cavernous living spaces.

Life alfresco is divided between the intimate flybridge – where the alfresco dining table and seating are arranged for close conversation – the foredeck and the main deck aft. The foredeck gives sweeping views of the surroundings while guests lounge and sunbathe, while sofa seating on the main deck aft invites guests to settle in for the evening to savour the warmth of cruising grounds such as the Bahamas and Eastern Mediterranean.

The guest accommodation is situated on the lower deck and consists of a full-beam Master suite, 2 VIP staterooms and 1 twin cabin to sleep up to 8 guests. The accommodation for a crew of 4 is in the bow.

When it comes to cruising, superyacht BLUE JEANS is capable of a fast-cruising speed of 22.5 knots and a top speed of 28 knots using twin MTU 16V 2000 M96L engines.

Van der Valk is currently attending the Cannes Yachting Festival, running 6th – 11th September, where the shipyard’s luxury yacht LADY LENE is on display.

There’s 15% off luxury yacht FALCON ISLAND this September and October 2022 in the Greece charter grounds, where the intense summer has mellowed to the perfect temperature for partying, culture seeking, fine dining and sunset strolls.

Built in 2005 and last refitted in 2021, 30.7m/100.9ft superyacht FALCON ISLAND has plenty of modern comforts all set within a traditional wood-panelled interior. The low, eye-catching exterior profile also incorporates several areas on board for guests to lounge and sunbathe in privacy or dine alfresco, all while having sweeping views of the anchorage and a warm sea breeze.

M/Y FALCON ISLAND comes with a great selection of water toys to enjoy the clear warm waters of the Ionian Sea and Aegean Sea. The collection includes:

1 x Seadoo jet ski
2 x kayaks
1 x paddleboard
water skis
fishing gear
snorkelling equipment, and
inflatable toys

A waterslide is also available on request at additional cost.

The accommodation sleeps a maximum of 12 guests over 5 en-suite cabins: 1 Master suite, 1 VIP stateroom, 1 double cabin and 2 twin cabins that both have a Pullman berth. The professional crew of 6 will be on-hand to provide first-class service throughout the cruise.

View more of FALCON ISLAND and plan your Eastern Mediterranean holiday today.

Oceanco superyacht THE WELLESLEY is offering 10% off 7-day charters and up to 15% off for 9-day charters this September in the Balearic Islands and the South of France.

Built in 1993 and last refitted in 2016, 56.2m/184.5ft motor yacht THE WELLESLEY is a stunning art deco-styled haven for travels between the Balearic Islands and hotspots along the French Riviera.

Spend your days between the cosy interiors and the inviting outdoor deck areas: Sunbathe on the sun loungers, dip into the Jacuzzi and dine alfresco surrounded by marvellous views such as Monaco, Nice or the Cap d’Antibes. There is a professional masseuse among the crew to ease knots and aching muscles gained from seaside adventures and cultural excursions. As night draws near, wind down in the main salon or sky lounge with close conversation and drinks from the well-stocked selection.

M/Y THE WELLESLEY is an Approved RYA Water Sports Centre, and there is a great selection of water toys to explore the myriad anchorages around Corsica and other Western Mediterranean destinations, and the collection includes:

2 x jet skis
2 x F5 Seabobs
2 x kayaks
1 x wakeboard
1 x kneeboard
1 x skurf board
a water slide
paddleboards
water skis
fishing gear, and
inflatable and towable toys

There is also golf gear available, with biodegradable fish food golf balls available as an addition.

Overnight, the ample accommodation sleeps up to 12 guests over 6 en-suite cabins: 2 Master suites, 1 VIP stateroom, 1 double cabin, 1 twin cabin convertible to a double, and 1 twin cabin with a Pullman berth. The talented multilingual crew of 12 will provide stellar service throughout your stay.

View more of superyacht THE WELLESLEY.