The Need For Speed, With Luxury!

The fastest yacht in the world title goes to 'World is Not Enough' - Millennium 140, this luxury 42 metre (140') superyacht has a top speed of 70 knots. Designed by Mulder Design she is brainchild of John Staluppi and John Rosatti, built in 2004 by Millennium Superyachts (superyachts.com)

The truly remarkable fact about the Millennium 140 is that she is the fastest superyacht despite her size, faster than any smaller superyacht in our 10 fastest yachts table. The typical speed for a superyacht of her size is between 20-25 knots. She is also not just a stripped-down 140 footer either, but a true luxury superyacht that is fully stocked with everything from statuary gensets to a state of the art audio-visual system.

The goal of the project was to design and build the fastest yacht that also maintained a high level of comfort at ultra-high speeds, this isn’t just a speed boat… it’s a luxury superyacht. To achieve this the aluminium superstructure is a lightweight alloy that gives an enhanced aerodynamic shape and stability at top speeds and her a progressive dead-rise V hull design gives the boat a form to cut through the water like a knife even in rough conditions.

She is powered by two Paxman 18-Cylinder main diesel engines offering a combined 10,870hp with an extra 9,200hp added by twin TF80 Lycombing turbines. All this power runs at 15,000gal fuel capacity and can journey to around 3,800nm.

The result is a powerful superyachts that offers minimum noise levels, no vibration and a ride that is not only exhilarating but comfortable at cruising speeds in excess of 50 knots.

Below is table of the other fastest yachts in the world.

Top 10 Fastest Superyachts in the world

1st	World is not Enough	42m	70 Knots
2nd	Fortuna	41m	65 Knots
3rd	Wally Power 118	36m	65 Knots
4th	Gentry Eagle	35.6m	63 Knots
5th	Alamshar	50m	60 Knots
6th	Ermis2	37.2m	57 Knots
7th	Nobody	33.5m	55 Knots
8th	AA Absolute	36.6m	54 Knots
9th	Anthea	27.5m	53 Knots
10th	Moon Goddess	35m	53 Knots

In Keeping With a Name that Imparts Beauty "Hatteras"

     Hatteras Yachts offer their customers unrevealed beauty and detail, the 60 motor yacht is a classic style with appointments only found in much larger vessels.  Named after the inlet they are made near, Hatteras offers exceptional quality and workmanship.  Hatteras inlet known to most as "The Cape" or "Cape Hatteras, N.C.  is as beautiful in it's scenery as Hatteras Yachts are to the eye.
     Below a picture of Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, a vacation destination for the east coast traveler, with a down home country charm of North Carolina.  Cape Hatteras Light is a lighthouse located on Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina near the community of Buxton, and is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  The Outer Banks are a group of islands on the North Carolina coast that separate the Atlantic Ocean from the coastal sounds and inlets.

     Hatteras Yachts located in New Bern N.C. has been churning out luxury yachts for more than 50 years, giving Hatteras residences a proud tradition of boat building. Check out Hatteras Website below to see the new 60 motor yacht.

http://hatterasyachts.com/Page.aspx/pageId/11570/pmid/251629/60-Convertible.aspx

Possibly the Most Beautiful Island Chain in the World

The island country of Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean south west of India. It comprises of 1,192 beautiful islands covered with colorful corals, white sandy beaches, and palm trees. The weather here is hot and humid as its location is very close to the equator. The country boost for its best calm beaches of the world. Maldives islands are one of the top destinations for the honeymooners as well.

Can You Fix the Inflatable?

     A yacht would not be a yacht without an inflatable dinghy, most yacht owners take great pride in owning one and relish in the security and ease of use one can bring to a vessel.  Most vessels of any size, carry a big draft without a marina in sight, this can mean relying on a dinghy to take your occupants to shore, not to mention a life boat in a real emergency, not the best of lifeboats I might add, but nonetheless, a boat.
     So are they reliable? The short answer, NO!  Dinghies, Hard bottom's, Skiff or RIBS as they may be known are all forms of small craft utility boats used in conjunction with or without a larger craft, usually inflatable.  Most yacht owners refer to their dinghy as an inflatable, an inflatable is a general purpose dinghy, used for all sorts of enjoyment and use.  A "dinghy" typically refers to a small sailing vessel, "a rowboat with a sail."  Power boaters refer to an inflatable, sailing captains to a dinghy.
     In a yachtsman's case, we will talk inflatables.  Most larger yachts have an inflatable attached somewhere on the vessel, be it from divats or deck mounted, an inflatable is part of yachting.  The biggest complaint with ownership of one of these marvelous toys, is keeping the thing aired up!  Newer and more futuristic materials have claimed to withstand the test of time, regardless they all leak eventually.  Most older and some newer versions of inflatables are all made of a common material called PVC "rubber" used for its ability to stay inflated and resist puncture, while some newer versions are made of hypalon, a more UV repellent product.
     The problem with inflatables of all types is without proper care and in most cases with it, the product can become porous or cracked even when properly covered.  The rubber becomes more brittle over time, the sun, rain and salt water exposure can take its toll, leaving the owner with little option but to invest in another inflatable.  I was told one time buy a dealer of a very well known inflatable manufacturer, and I quote; "Most PVC inflatables are only meant to last at the most about three to five years!" A sobering comment, I took to heart, realizing I cannot buy an new inflatable every 4 years.  Everyone knows how to protect something as expensive as an inflatable from the effects of the sea.  So how do we repair inflatables?
     Repairing inflatables can be tricky, depending on what you need to fix?  Is the inflatable repairable? Some newer products are made of materials you cannot patch yourself without proper equipment, while the most common material PVC, can be patched.  Ask yourself some simple questions?  Where is the leak coming from? Is the leak a pinhole or along the seams making the repair more difficult? Is the inflatable worth fixing or paying to have fixed? All these questions and more need to be answered in order to decide how or if to fix your inflatable. Visit this well known website below for additional info on inflatables and how to fix them, good luck.


www.allinflatables.com

Should I buy a Salvaged Yacht?

     Yacht salvage is big business, brokers, dealers and investor's take every opportunity to capitalize on yachts having been storm damaged or totaled by insurance adjusters.  Some salvage yards hold auctions, incorporating police or U.S. Marshal requisitions, giving buyers a quick deal, but, does the buyer really get a good deal?
     Salvaged vessels can come from any harbor, marina or coast, offering the buyer a big expense in transportation fees.  Moving or having a larger than average sized yacht relocated can be very expensive and in some cases, not worth it.  Also, most vessels auctioned do not have a current survey, limiting the amount of information you have on the vessel before purchase.
     Some auction houses give potential buyers amble time to have inspections done before bidding, however, most yachts are bought without being able to have the vessel properly surveyed.  A big risk for buyers, keeping in mind most salvaged yachts are placed for sale because storm damage rendered the boat unsailable or left buy owners who knew the value wasn't worth salvaging.

     So how do you find a good salvage yard?  Online.  Online websites are a great place to start researching salvaged vessels.  Take the time to research active salvage brokers and do your homework.  Be aware that some are out to rob you blind, while others offer a good to fair price for a vessel and list damage seen and unseen.  Find a salvage broker or yacht broker which allows you to inspect the vessel before bidding and can offer you damage reports on their current inventory list.

     Many skippers have been fortunate enough to land ownership of a very nice vessel by being patient, doing research and finding a qualified surveyor prior to purchase, if you are inclined to find a yacht this way, follow these simple steps to buying salvage, Visit the website below for auctions on salvage and maintained vessels with a great reputation.

http://yachtauctions.com/


    

Can a Person Live Aboard a Yacht these Days?

     Living aboard a yacht can be a pleasure some only dream of, but, be prepared to suffer some unusual circumstances.  First, living on a broken down old boat can at first seem like a dream come true for some, visualizing a peaceful daily routine of fixing up an old boat while living on it. Then reality sets in!  Preparing to make a vessel your permanent dwelling can be a daunting task.

     Making the transition from a land dwelling to a marina vessel means getting rid of a lot of possessions, most will have to be stored or sold.  Secondly, you'll have a different electrical and plumbing system on a yacht, making an adjustment to the lumbering systems can mean a big learning curve.  You'll be living on a floating house essentially, getting used to the sights, feels and smells can be a big adjustment.  Also consider your new neighbors?  Are they summer dinks?  Are they permanent residents?  Get to know those around the marina who live there, if not for your own safety for the enjoyment.

     Most marina's have security, get to know the staff and make friends with those in charge, let them know you are a permanent resident, know your neighborhood, giving you a leg up in an emergency.  The best idea to consider, if you are unsure about living on a boat, rent or charter a boat for an extended stay, giving a you a chance to experience yacht life before taking the plunge.  You may also consider some marina regulations and rules, most fresh water marina's discourage living aboard and in some states, permanent residency is against the law.  Consider expenses as well, you may own your vessel, however, other monthly charges can add up, like, slip fees, electrical charges, pump and sump clean out fees and fuel.

    Living aboard a vessel can be a romantic enviable pleasure, only realized by those individuals willing to take the plunge into the world of marina life, knowing what type of commitment and quality of life you will have is the key to taking up residency.
    

"Trinity Yachts" North America's Premier Super Yacht Builder

     On the ravaged Gulf Coast their remains a yacht builder so dedicated to custom ship building, even the most destructive hurricane, massive oil spill and downed economy could not flatten its grit, Trinity Yachts.  For decades Trinity yachts has forged an incredible reputation for building the finest yachts in the world, each appointment paid attention to with great detail, rivaling the best yacht builders the world around. Located in the central gulf region, this North American yacht builder has made a name for itself as the premier super yacht builder on the globe. Arguably the best boat maker from here to there, Trinity uses only the finest of materials, state of the art electronics packages, proven hull designs and expert craftsmanship.  You will not find a more beautifully made yacht inside and out than a Trinity yacht.  However, in Trinity's case the beauty is more than skin deep, they take expert care in seeing that each of it's builds have the latest and greatest equipment and manufacturing products making Trinity yachts an all around winner.  Check out Trinity yachts website below and see for yourself why Trinity yachts makes America proud!

http://www.trinityyachts.com

Sea Sickness The Unpleasant Aspect of Yachting

     Everyone who has been on the ocean, knows all to well the feared sounds made from its passengers, the sound of someone loosing their lunch, as unpleasant as seasickness can be, there is actually science behind it.  Found to be most prevalent in migraine patients, females and children under twelve, seasickness can affect anyone from young to old, male to female and even family pets have been known to get seasickness.  So why do some people seem so susceptible to seasickness? The answer can be found in several theories of thought.  First, the size of the vessel can have a huge impact on how smooth the ride is, most larger yachts have more stability and those that are fairly decent size will have stabilizing systems installed in order to make the ride more enjoyable.  The smaller the craft the more the vessel rocks, causing a feeling of weightlessness, thus causing seasickness.
     Most doctors commonly refer to seasickness as motion sickness, not the other way around. Shortly after departing a vessel because of seasickness, doctors have clinically diagnosed travelers as suffering from motion sickness, a chemical process which causes the brain to misfire on all cylinders, confusing the mind into a feeling of constant movement.  Inner ear processes which effect equilibrium can often give a patient the feeling of "Spinning" or "Weightlessness."  Sometimes most problems cure themselves immediately upon leaving the vessel , while for others, symptoms can last for days, commenting "I can still feel the boat rocking!"
     I do know from experience that I can be on a vessel for several days non-stop and can still feel the motion days after being on land.  This is very common. The best coarse of action is to tell your potential guest to be prepared, ask your passengers if they have ever been to sea, find out if they have any medical conditions which the skipper needs to know about.  Keep carbonate soda and Dramamine (anti-nausea medication) on board in case someone does get sick.  Being prepared is the best alternative to being caught from port without the ability to help someone in need.  Seasickness can ruin a well planned trip and if the weather catches you unprepared, even the most salty of sailors has been known to hug the rail.     

Yacht Broker Crime Blog

     Every few weeks I will post a crime against the yachting community, my goal is not only to entertain, but to help educate those unsuspecting broker clients who fall victim to thieves, making a rip off artist con harder to perpetuate.  This first story comes from where else? Florida, the home of the most yachts per capita. This story comes to us from the SunSentinel.com written by consumer writer Mitch Lipka and staff writer Vicky Agnew.

2002 Police Files:

"A veteran South Florida boat broker, who 10 years ago went to prison for scamming nearly three dozen customers, was charged on Friday with a nearly identical crime -- selling clients' boats worth more than $100,000 and keeping the proceeds.

Scott Seegott, 40, owner of Capri Sales Corp., eboatxchange.com, boatss.com and Wholesale Marine Liquidators, all at 1810 Garfield St. in Hollywood, was arrested by Hollywood Police Detective Rob Alfano.

Seegott, convicted a decade ago of pocketing the money from the sales of 34 customers' boats at a Boynton Beach boat yard, was charged Friday with running a scheme to defraud in excess of $50,000, four counts of fraud involving a security interest and passing a worthless check.

The charges stem from the alleged theft of at least five boats and failing to satisfy four liens on boats Seegott had sold. The scheme to defraud count carries a penalty of up to 30 years in prison."(sentinel2002)

sun sentinel.com2002. "Police: boat broker pocketed money meant for clients" Ret. April 6th 2011

http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2002-06-22/news/0206220107_1_boats-hollywood-police-charges

The Most Expensive Yacht in the World?

     According stylecrave.com its the "Dubai" mega yacht and to some the most spectacular yacht in the world. Boasting a crazy price tag of 350 million, this yacht based on price alone is a miracle. Here's what stylecrave.com had to say about this yacht:

Owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, the 531-foot Dubai has interiors designed by Philippe Starck, space for 115 guests and 88 crew members, six guest suites and five VIP suites — all with open balconies. Interior spaces are channeled towards a “massive” foyer and atrium that connects each of the mega-yacht’s eight deck. Outside, the ship hosts a large pool, squash court, helipad and a small aircraft hanger.


Check Out the "Dubai" on this website:


http://stylecrave.com/2009-05-22/luxury-yachts-the-10-most-expensive-yachts-in-the-world/

A Timeless Yacht With a Storied History

     "The Delphine" is a beautiful yacht with a history most yacht owner's would love to speak of.  Originally commissioned by Horace Dodge, founder of Dodge Motor Cars, he had the yacht designed and built to his specifications, later the yacht was commandeered by the United States Government to help during World War Two.  Take a look at a very unique yacht that has steamed its way into the history books.

Visit Delphine Website: http://www.ssdelphine.com/

How do I choose a Marine Surveyor?

     Anyone can title him or herself as a Marine Surveyor and start a business. Certain marine surveyors are permitted to use a designation denoting membership in accrediting organizations that require members to meet strict professional, technical and ethical standards.

Surveyors should provide you with a professionally prepared report that can be accepted by your bank and/or insurance company. Talk with prospective surveyors and ask questions! What does the survey include and what type of reporting format is used? Do they use ABYC, NFPA and USCG standards in their surveys? How much will the inspection cost? How long will the on-board inspection take?

The following Link is an outstanding website to find all the information you ever wanted to know about Marine Surveying; http://www.marinesurvey.org/index2.html

How do I find the right Yacht Broker?

     How and when you should list your yacht can be a critical decision, one if done right, can limit future headaches down the road.  What to look for in a listing agent?  If you have a high end yacht, you should try and establish a relationship with a yacht brokerage company which is known to have the right resources to bring clientele to your yacht for viewing.  Some local brokers may profess to have many yachts listing and have creative marketing techniques to lure you in, however, by doing a little research you can find out if they are the right broker for the job, below I have listed several important criteria to hiring a brokerage firm to market your yacht for sale.


1. Are they a licensed yacht broker?
     Some brokers depending on the state are required to work for several years under a licensed broker selling yachts, then they themselves can apply for a brokerage license, after which they can profess to be a broker, this practice helps maintain a level of integrity within the profession. Unfortunately, only a few states govern yacht brokering.


2. How did you find out about them?
     One way to insure a broker has a good name is by word of mouth, how you found out about them speaks volumes; Did you find a business card tacked up on the yacht club bulletin board, or did you find them online?  Getting references from other yacht owners is the best way to pick a broker, "word of mouth" still means something.


3. Are they a local broker?
     In most cases local brokers have a better chance selling your yacht than an out of town broker, not always the case, but local brokers know a lot of people, they wine and dine with other yacht owners and can market to local marina's shipyards etc. The more local you are the better you have a pulse on the local yacht market. You may get more showings and can get more information on a local company.


4. How do they market their inventory?
     If you have a high end yacht or not, how a broker markets your vessel can mean a sale. Do they have a heavily trafficked website, is it appealing to the eye? How many other boats are they currently listing, do they have too many or too few?  Do they market at boat shows?  Do they have aggressive advertising methods? How big of a sales team do they have? How are other yachts listed on their website? Pictures, info, brochures, etc.


5. Who is on their staff?
     Some yacht brokers have retained the services of estimators, engineers and mechanics, giving the client the ability to have his or her yacht evaluated by experts, giving the client a full evaluation of a yachts value, notifying them of any mechanical defects or a hint of problems found by a potential buyers marine survey.




     There are many other variables to consider when listing a yacht with a broker, this posting gives you a small insight into finding a broker, click on the link below for more information on the requirements brokers must complete to obtain a lincense.


http://www.ehow.com/info_7782387_florida-yacht-broker-information.html