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Monaco Classic Week, over 100 boats expected at Yacht Club de Monaco

Luca D'Ambrosio — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:19:49 +0000

Monaco Classic Week: over 100 classic boats on display

Organized by Yacht Club de Monaco and hosted by the Principality of the same name, the 16th Monaco Classic Week will take place from September 13-16.

Launched in 1994, this unique in the world biennial event pays homage to the history of yachting.

This year, a photography exhibition will be dedicated to Prince Rainier III to celebrate the centenary of his birth. The event will include regattas, parades, the elegance contest, the chefs competition and the final award ceremony on Saturday 16 September at the Yacht Club de Monaco. Visitors will also have the opportunity to admire a fleet of Dinghy 12′, the most classic of sailing dinghies, born in England 110 years ago.

Access to the quays and exhibitors Village is free for the entire duration of the event.

MONACO CLASSIC WEEK, THE 16TH EDITION KICKS OFF

Around 110 classic boats are expected in Monaco from September 13-16 for this 16th Monaco Classic Week-La Belle Classe. A unique and exclusive in the world event which, with the participation of boats by invitation only, pays homage to the international maritime heritage. The meeting brings owners and their crews out on the water for a range of contests with social occasions in the evening in the time-honoured tradition of a certain ‘Art de Vivre la Mer’ so dear to YCM.

The fabulous line-up that will fill the YCM Marina will comprise a dozen period motor-yachts, 50 vintage motorboats, including around 30 Rivas and 3 powerboats from the early 20th century as well as 50 classic sailing yachts and a 20-strong fleet of the clinker-built 3.66 m Dinghy 12’ class, born in 1913 from the pencil of the English designer George Cockshott.

THE ULTRA CENTURY SAILING YACHTS AND THE PRINCE RANIERI III EXHIBITION

Among those joining Yacht Club de Monaco’s flagship Tuiga (1909) of note will be Maliclaire, a 35m topsail schooner (1909), the three-mast schooner Creole, built in 1927 by the Camper & Nicholsons yard and Atlantic, replica of that famous three mast schooner helmed by the legendary Charlie Barr which left her mark on the history of sailing by setting the first record for a North Atlantic crossing. It was a record that would remain unequalled for 75 years.

This year the public and classic yacht enthusiasts also have the opportunity to see a photography exhibition dedicated to Prince Rainier III as the Principality celebrates the centenary of his birth. Prince Ranieri III, a lover of sailing, was the founder of the Yacht Club de Monaco 70 years ago, today presided over by his son Albert II, the current sovereign prince.

Access to the quays and exhibitors Village (painters, photographers, craftsmen, official YCM Boutique) is free to everyone starting Wednesday 13th September from 10.00am.

A MARITIME LEGACY

All the yachts of yesteryear which are still sailing continue to fascinate as they bear witness to a rich cultural heritage from a distant past. Every two years, YCM puts the spotlight on boats that are the pride and joy of their owners and reminders of the long tradition that links the Principality to the sea.

In 1862, the first regattas were already being held in the bay, and by the end of that century Monaco had become a mecca for the international yachting world where the biggest names in finance, industry and entertainment met. The year 1904 also saw the first international powerboat events held in Port Hercule with the emergence of the internal combustion engine.

All the big sailing and motor yachts flocked to be privileged spectators of these meetings. Within a few years, Monaco became the centre of innovation and fashionable water sports.

AT MONACO CLASSIC WEEK ATLANTIC CELEBRATES HER 120TH ANNIVERSARY

Atlantic, the replica of the legendary schooner commissioned in 1903 by New York Yacht Club member Wilson Marshall will celebrate her 120th anniversary. The reconstruction project led by Ed Kastelain was an ambitious one. With a deck length of 56m she is the largest racing schooner ever to be rebuilt. In terms of her lines and sail area she is identical to when she won the 1905 Transatlantic Race that ensured her immortality in yachting’s history.

Slender lines accentuate her elegance while the 42m waterline, narrow beam, and masts soaring 45m above the water supporting 1,750m2 of sail, make her breathtakingly fast. A fabulous sight to behold!

THE ELEGANCE CONTEST AND THE “MONACO CLASSIC WEEK PRIZE”

Participating in the Monaco Classic Week is not just about results but celebrating a passion, with special prizes to encourage the involvement and commitment of owners to preserve their boats as the true heritage of a timeless maritime culture.

The coveted La Belle Restoration Prize rewards the quality of the restoration these boats have undergone, many of which are well over a hundred years old, judged by a Jury chaired by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and comprising yachting history experts.

Marks are given based on respect for the original plans, materials used in their construction and the knowledge of those who restored them. The Elegance Contest is also judged by the same Jury whose job is to rate the boats on etiquette, style and respect for a certain way of life and conduct at sea, all in a festive fun spirit.

Both these are combined to decide the winner of the Monaco Classic Week Prize that encompasses all the criteria evaluated in terms of restoration and elegance to which is added a coup de cœur (favourite) element for the spirit that prevails on board among the crew, as well as maintenance and restoration.

Living well at sea also means knowing how to combine the pleasures of good food with the joy of sailing. The Chefs Competition is a chance for owners to get their chefs to produce a menu on board their boats within a given time from a basket of mystery ingredients.

The grand finale that concludes Monaco Classic Week is a big parade when participants gather just off the Oceanographic Museum and file one behind the other eastwards towards Larvotto Beach.

16TH MONACO CLASSIC WEEK – PROGRAMME

Wednesday 13th September
• 10.00am: Opening of Monaco Classic Week Exhibitors Village
• 1.00pm: Warm-up race & 15M IR Encounter
• 3.00pm – 6.00pm: Inspection of yachts by “La Belle Classe Restoration” Jury

Thursday 14h September
• 9.00am – 6.00pm: Inspection of yachts by “La Belle Classe Restoration” Jury
• 9.00am – 10.00am: Chefs Competition (distribution of ingredients on the quays)
• 12 noon: First warning signal for the Dinghy 12’ class
• 12 noon: Start of race for classic sailing yachts – coastal race
• 5.00pm – 7.00pm: Chefs Competition with Moët Hennessy (presentation of dishes on the quay)
• Before the party Prize-giving for Chefs Competition

Friday 15th September
• 9.00am – 6.00pm: Inspection of yachts by “La Belle Classe Restoration” Jury
• 10.00am: First warning signal of a passage race Yacht Club de Monaco – Ventimiglia for the sailing yachts, motor-yachts and powerboats
• 12 noon: First warning signal for the Dinghy 12’ class
• 3.00pm: Start of the return passage race Ventimiglia – Yacht Club de Monaco

Saturday 16th September
•9.00am – 6.00pm: Inspection of yachts by “La Belle Classe Restoration” Jury
• 11.00am: Elegance Parade for classic sailing yachts, motor-yachts and classic powerboats
• 12 noon: First warning signal for the Dinghy 12’ class
• 12 noon: Start of race for classic sailing yachts – coastal race
• 2.00pm: Manoeuvrability Challenge for the classic motorboats
• 4.00pm – 5.00pm: Monaco Classic Week Grand Parade
• 7.00pm: Prize-giving & Closing Cocktail – Lucciana jetty (by invitation)

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Qu presents: “Infinitude. A circular lighting experience”

Alessio Molla — Tue, 23 May 2023 08:29:59 +0000

Qu’s Milan-based showroom opens its doors to us. Interview with Chiara Marzucco

The circle shape has always been a symbol of harmony, completeness and perfection. This element has been used over the centuries with different meanings which,however, have always recalled the same concept: a space where energies, linked to the universe and its dynamics, can be recalled, a protected space that refers to absolute perfection.

It is indeed a circle, more precisely a circle of light, that welcomes guests to the Qu showroom in Via Cernaia 7 in Milan, guests who, enveloped in a light that is at times softer, at times brighter, are about to visit the temporary installation “Infinitude. A circular lighting experience”.

An organic and integrated circular project that embraces the garden and the interiors, where light is the common thread of the experience: a concept by Parisotto + Formenton Architetti that stems from the desire to provide visitors with a complete sensory experience. Light and sound complement each other and converge in suggestions capable of taking one elsewhere as far as the cosmos.

Waiting for us in this circle of light is Chiara Marzucco, former Vice President & Marketing Director at Quick Spa, who saw in the company’s Quick Lighting branch an opportunity to be relaunched, to the point of making it take on, with Qu, a dimension of its own.

A long light ribbon guides the visitor through the courtyard; circles of light mark the garden as stages of the tour, intersecting with the trees present, and becoming signs, seats and patterns created by the light on the ground.

What is the conceptual approach in Qu’s design idea?

“This year we said: we make a product, designed by architects and designers, but what we want to show is not necessarily the product. What we want instead is to make people have an experience. After various brainstorms we landed on this concept of the circle, which is one of the primary forms that, unlike others, is very democratic: it unites.

Then we combined this concept with the motion of light. At certain times there are very slow scenarios, and the light changes together with the music; we created a 15-hour scenario that varies very slowly, and each time it gives different suggestions, combining a very warm light with an amber one, while the counterfield is made of very cold light.

A nonsense in itself which, in this case however, makes sense because you don’t see the source, but you perceive this cold cloud behind it that is lunar, spatial: and here we connect to another theme, sounds. These sounds we hear are from the samplings made available by NASA, sounds from space, noises from galaxies and frequencies.

The guys from the Elion projectproject, who took care of this part, went and took different types of sounds depending on the time of day, so that in the morning or in the middle and warmer hours they came from Mars and the Sun, in the cooler hours of the morning, from the Moon, and later in the evening, from far away from the Earth.

This year’s concept revolves precisely around orbit, a dialogue between man and the space around.

No product is mentioned. Products are installed of course, like the Magritte, where again the concept of the circle returns, but that is not the focus. . In my opinion, light is not about selling a product, it is about union in one’s home, living a different experience depending on the time of day

What distinguishes Qu from the market?

‘Let’s say that we wanted to distance ourselves a little from the classic product concept. Last year we used 3/4 families of lighting fixtures on the outside of the garden, and inside the same products are ‘exploded’ on a table: we did this as a provocation. As if to say: you see these are iron, electronics and cables, but these are elements that everyone has.

What changes is everything the company can do to either support the customer and/or give a vision in terms of light, giving support to the architect or designer, to achieve exactly what they had in mind’

More generally, in Qu’s concept, where does your inspiration come from?

‘From everything that comes into our hands every day Certainly we are connected to the theme of art, which is very dear to our company.

The real inspiration comes from the experience we have every day, when someone submits a problem to us. From there we start and from there we mutate, we change. Then we are going very fast, we don’t keep a single course, we mutate according to the challenges we are faced with.

I think we have found our dimension for now, but we are still changing a lot and we will continue to change a lot in the next three to four years’.

Two special works in which you were involved were the Cavalsassi school in Rome and the Nuove Cantine Italiane in Verona.

Here the light is almost poetic, it takes us into a story, what work does light do in contexts like these?

‘Light in my opinion is something that can enrich a project, and relying on an expert like a lighting designer is a very good idea, especially if he in turn has the foresight to rely on a company that can support him in his ideas.

In the case of Nuove Cantine Italiane, the set-up was done by Filippo Bricolo, a brilliant architect from Veneto, who needed to create this very imposing structure; it was a bit unusual because it was not flat, but had two planes that created a corner, and he wanted to create a light that could be integrated into the display itself.

We needed a light that could illuminate the works without someone standing in front of them casting a shadow for themselves. We worked well with Filippo, he provided us with the space to stand in and his design idea, and gave us a lot of space on achieving the desired effect.

In the case of Cavalsassi it was a bit of the same thing. Marco Ferrelli took care of the project, and in that case we had to give value to this beautiful 1920s villa, but without interfering with the beauty of that historic building.

We worked from behind in the negative, to give accents on the windows, working with colours that could be completely integrated with the beam tubes. But you can hardly perceive where the light is coming from, which was the effect we were looking for.

You work in all situations, indoors, outdoors, public spaces, offices, residences. Is there an environment you particularly like?

For me, the outdoors is very beautiful and interesting. There is so much you can do, it is an environment that has been much more appreciated in the last 2/3 years. When we were looking for our showroom, the first thing I looked for was a place with a garden.

There is interaction between the elements outdoors. We do organic, biophysical light and greenery, with light that does not also interfere, but goes to create something new. In my opinion, a garden can be experienced in many different ways, by day and by night, with the same kind of light. So yes, as far as I am concerned, the outdoors is definitely my favourite. Then I come a little bit from the sea, so…’.

Here, let’s take a boating parenthesis. It’s a sector where light basically means furnishing, having space, that’s also an interesting aspect, isn’t it?

‘Qu doesn’t work directly in the boating sector, but it is a sector that I know very well and which the Quick Lighting division follows In my opinion, unfortunately it is still often the case that boat lighting is very price-dependent. And that’s a pity because it’s hard to understand that a boat, a yacht or a superyacht can change a lot depending on the type of product being used.

Who knows, even Qu can create an identity in this sense’.

In conclusion, are there any future plans or particular ambitions that you have for the near or longer term future?

‘The first goal is not to disappoint. We are working and taking several projects abroad, so developing abroad with a dedicated showroom is near, but at the moment we are very focused on going step by step and experimenting.

We have plenty of time to grow, but right now the most important thing is not to disappoint expectations, everything else will come step by step. Besides, I’m superstitious!’

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On-board safety: Alberto Palazzo talks about firefighting systems and Aerosol AerPro

Alessio Molla — Mon, 01 May 2023 20:50:19 +0000

During the latest conference organized by ItalianYachtMasters and the Associazione Marittimi Argentario, we met with Alberto Palazzo, Sole Director of Polytechno Engineering, and took the opportunity to address a crucial aspect as far as safety at sea is concerned: the extinguishing of fires on board, through the most innovative technologies, such as Aerosol AerPro.

In fact, on a boat, as well as on land, multiple possible triggers for a fire can develop in an unexpected and uncontrollable manner, unless effective extinguishing and containment systems are on board.

“The most complex points and situations in a boat where fires can happen are the engine rooms, the galley, and the electrical and battery systems Alberto Palazzo tells us – In the galley a concrete example is the galley hood, which fills with grease and it only takes a little to have a point of fuel that reaches the outside through a pipe and comes into contact with oxygen, igniting.

Talking about the engine room, it is obvious it is very risky; keep in mind that the bilge, which is not well controlled, can be a big problem; therefore, my first advice is to keep it clean. Electrical systems and batteries are another very sensitive point; there are several ignitable elements that are at risk obviously, one of them being the transformer “.

In the face of so many risks, what is important to do?

“Prevention first and foremost – continues the Sole Administrator of Polytechno Engineering – Take the galley for example. Keeping fire blankets at hand is essential; moreover, anyone new on the boat needs to know all the devices so as not to be a weak link; then maintenance, onboard systems need to be serviced, and then of course extinguishing.

We have created Secure 4 Sea, a portal where different companies are represented, a reference point where you can find answers on all kinds of issues for safety on board: firefighting devices, personal protection, counseling. Another important aspect to consider is that when dealing with a fire extinguishing mechanism there are rules to follow that lead to the classification of vessels, in terms of the use of extinguishing elements

Another important aspect to consider is that when dealing with a fire extinguishing mechanism there are rules to follow that lead to the classification of vessels, in terms of the use of extinguishing elements”.

Prevention is always better than cure, isn’t it?

“Absolutely. It has been studied that a fire costs about 10 thousand euros per minute. Another study says that it takes an average of 20/25 min before firefighters are able to be at the scene of the fire. In short, a fire really costs a lot of money. So, when we think about a fire suppression system, we don’t just think about economics, we think about its effectiveness. It is the most important system we have on board “.

Speaking of systems, there are many options available, but times change and so do the proposals; what are your most cutting-edge ones?

“There can be gas systems of course, many of which however are going out of use for different reasons, or the ones we are proposing lately: Water Mist and Aerosol AERPRO.

With the water mist systems – explains Alberto Palazzo – we have a product related to smaller volumes: microscopic droplets of water get between the material and the flame causing a very effective extinguishing.

Aerosol AerPro is the most innovative system, based on a special chemical reaction. Where a fire exists, in fact, many complex particles develop. Aerosol AerPro has condensed potassium salts that develop a chemical reaction and extinguish the fire through potassium that changes state, at a certain temperature that is obtained electrically, becomes a vapor, and triggers a chemical reaction that leads to more effective extinguishing than any other type of system.

It has important features: it is small (30x30x12, 30x30x30) and is easy to install. We also have smaller systems, for example for the electrical panel, which can be dangerous: with these systems they can be protected with minimal cost and zero maintenance.

Last but not least, this system is the only certified one that puts out fires on lithium batteries. These batteries reach a certain temperature, which if it is exceeded (around 100 degrees) leads to the explosion of the battery, with a release of hydrogen from which the flame starts. Every other type of agent works only on extinguishing the flame, but our Aerosol also promotes the cooling of the battery, and as long as it remains in a gaseous state, it is impossible for the fire to resume.

AerPro Aerosol is totally non-toxic, so it is recommended in spaces frequented by humans, even remaining inside the discharge does not cause problems. As for the residue most of it is consumed in the fire, if the fire is extinguished immediately we get the biggest part out with some aeration”.

In conclusion, what can we recommend to those who could potentially face a fire on board?

“Fire equals panic – concludes Alberto Palazzo, Sole Director of Polytechno Engineering – Firefighting systems and courses are crucial to be ready in the moment of an emergency, in those first few minutes of turmoil is the most important aspect, besides, of course, being prepared with the right technology, for its extinguishment. So don’t underestimate this problem and be prepared for it”.

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ItalianYachtMasters: the captains of the future are Made in Italy

Alessio Molla — Sun, 02 Apr 2023 23:01:26 +0000

Great attendance at the second edition of the Argentario meets Yachting conference which, organized by ItalianYachtMasters and Associazione Marittimi Argentario, focused on the themes of superyacht jobs and safety at sea with top-level professional figures.

ItalianYachtMasters was created with the aim to constitute a community that allows, in an increasingly global and constantly evolving market, the sharing of skills and knowledge in order to uniquely and internationally train the captains who will then take the helm of both important recreational and non-recreational vessels, thus representing the values of the Association.

During the symposium, which also celebrated the Association’s 10th anniversary,it was emphasized that being part of ItalianYachtMasters also means being part of an elite group of Captains, capable of both spreading the values of the best yachting culture, and of dealing professionally and efficiently with all kinds of difficulties on board, without ever losing the objective of giving unforgettable moments to their owners.

“We have more than one hundred members and the selections to enter are becoming increasingly tight. – proudly commented Gino Battaglia, President of ItalianYachtMasters, during the event – Our aim is to provide the market with truly prepared figures, who know how to enhance their work and the Italian character that distinguishes them, being available and above all able to solve any kind of problem on board. The Association was created to learn, we still have a long way to go, but our role is important, because it allows us to export expertise and professionalism around the world through the uniqueness of our Captains”.

The opening day was attended by the main sponsors, which recently made it possible to donate a diagnostic unit to the Savona Hospital, and some new sponsors were also presented, including Besenzoni, the brand specializing in marine gangways, and Quick Spa, an international leader in the production and marketing of boating equipment.

“We have chosen to be sponsors,’ commented Giorgio Besenzoni, CEO of the company of the same name – because we believe it is important that captains and owners know the values of our company and the absolute quality that distinguishes our products”.

This concept was also expressed by Michele Marzullo of the renowned Italian multinational Quick Spa: “Our company was estabilished in 1992 with the aim of introducing high quality components to the boating industry. Today, we have more than 300 employees, one office in the US and another in the UK, and we train our staff with these values everywhere. That is why we are here today“.

The event was moderated by Luca D’AmbrosioEditor-in-chief of The International Yatching Media, who delved into the topics of crew training and changes in the boating industry, thanks to the participation of the ITS Caboto Academy Association, the ISYL Foundation, the Instituto Tecnico Nautico of Porto Santo Stefano and USLAC, signatory of the CCNL Recreational Seafarers

“We have been existing for 10 years, offering professionalising tertiary training – commented Clemente Borrelli, General Manager of ITS Caboto Academy – 100% of our students go directly from our courses to the world of work, with which we have a constant dialogue. The training of our young people is crucial, not only the technical one but, above all, the human one, which is important in order not to disregard the values of commitment, professionalism and passion’”.

The mission of ItalianYachtMasters is very important since it represents a noble aim that has brought together leading personalities, professionals and students at the Argentario: in short, the past, present and future of a driving sector for the Italian industry, which places the country as a world leader.

A great honour, but at the same time a great responsibility that ItalianYatchMasters, and all the people present at this important two-day event, carry around the world with pride and passion.

Appointment for next year then, aware that this 2023 will be an important year, where as always, it will be crucial to be able to make a difference.

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The 6th Monaco Yacht Ocean comes to an end: sustainability took centre stage

Alessio Molla — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 10:43:59 +0000

The prestigious Yacht Club de Monaco held the 6th Monaco Yacht Week, an initiative supported by the Prince Albert II Foundation. The event, which took place at the club’s facility, was the meeting point for numerous players in the yachting sector, with a special focus on environmental sustainability.

It was an intense week of initiative which included the 12th edition of the Environmental Symposium, the 27th Captain’s forum and the 3rd YCM Explorers’ Awards. Moreover the YCM hosted the Monaco Smart Yacht Rendezvous, an innovative event kicked off by HSH Prince Albert II.

The Yacht Club de Monaco was also committed to being a key player in the environmental transition as a communication and exchange platform for the yachting industry, as Secretary General Bernard d’Alessandri emphasized during the event:As part of our public service remit, Yacht Club de Monaco intends to be a key player in the environmental transition as a platform for communication and exchange for the yachting industry. All these meetings are part of our collective Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting approach ”.

Highlights of the Monaco Ocean Week included the YCM Explorer Awards organized by La Belle Classe Superyachts. The awards were destined to owners who stand out for their commitment to protecting the marine environment, both in the design of their yacht and in the way they use it. The ceremony was attended by Prince Albert II of Monaco who called for continued collaboration to protect the planet for future generations

“I hope we can continue to work together to protect the planet for future generations– stated Prince Albert II-We must continue to be fascinated by what nature and the ocean show us, at the same time preserve it”.

The 12th Environmental Symposium brought attention to yachting sustainability and how this issue is addressed by the new generations of engineers, with the aim of promoting a more responsible yachting through alternative energies, innovations and collaboration: an issue that had already been discussed during the Monaco Yacht Show 2022..

During the initiative, the Captains of the YCM Captains’ Club played a very important role, bringing together 150 captains with the 3000 certificate, who work on superyachts flying the YCM flag and who enlivened the 27th Captains’ Forum.

Focusing on the theme “Superyacht Commitment: Management, Leadership and Mentoring”, the meeting aimed to provide a platform for captains to exchange views and help develop the future of yachting.

As part of the initiative, the 1st Monaco Smart Yacht Rendezvous also came to life, organized by Monaco Marina Management, which gave the 50 Startups, Scaleups and Corporates the opportunity, as well as shipyards, architects and designers, to present their innovative and adaptable solutions for superyachts.

The event, dedicated to the yachting industry and to innovative companies wishing to provide a collective response to the problems related to climate change, concluded the two days with the Smart Innovative Yacht Awards ceremony, which rewarded the most intelligent and eco- responsible solutions in three categories:

Startup – NLcomp (Italy)

Scaleup – Lineat Composites (UK)

Corporate – Wisamo (France)

Last but not least, the Monaco Ocean Week also included the Superyacht Chef Competition. Organized by Yacht Club de Monaco in collaboration with YCM’s La Belle Classe Academy training centre, the culinary competition aims to spotlight the artistic talents and creativity of professional chefs as another important aspect of yachting.

Supervised by Joël Garault, President of Goûts et Saveurs, the jury of experts will be chaired by two-time three Michelin star Yannick Alléno. Nine superyacht chefs will compete in a series of three 45-minute heats, from which three finalists will advance to determine the winner.

In short, an all-round event, which met with great success, touching on absolutely current issues and in line with the demands that new needs impose: more awareness, greater sustainability and above all respect for our seas and our planet.

Surely this year’s edition has highlighted the fact that anyone can contribute to the protection of our planet, and the world of yachting, first of all in this sense, must be a leading example for all sectors.

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How to take care of the wetted surface of the hull? We asked STOPPANI

Silvia Pretto — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 05:10:02 +0000

Keeping a boat in excellent condition is one of the main concerns for most boat owners, and perhaps, the most difficult to put into practice. To ensure a healthy wetted surface of the hull for your boat, you need to check it, clean it and treat it regularly with appropriate products that prevent the formation of fouling on the hull.

Choosing the right paint is another difficult task, but a helping hand in this is provided by Stoppani, Lechler’s brand for the yachting industry and excellence in the production of paint products since 1883. Stoppani will explain all the secrets for properly maintaining a boat.

Fouling and antifouling: what they are

What is fouling? For the beginner as well as the more experienced boating enthusiast, fouling is a colonization of algae or other marine organisms on the surface of the hull which creates fouling.

The wetted surface of the hull, being the submerged surface of the boat, is subject to the settlement of these microorganisms, which vary depending on temperature, water salinity, wave motion and many other factors.

Antifouling is a layer of paint that is applied over the entire wetted surface of the hull to protect it from fouling, the accumulation of algae and small marine organisms that routinely settle on submerged parts. In addition to reducing a boat’s performance, sometimes and in the long run, it can also damage the hull’s drive components. If this protection is absent, these fouling would slow down the boat in navigation, increasing its consumption, weighing down the hull and changing its profile.

All antifouling paints, being products whose active ingredient is released into the sea, must pass strict controls before being marketed since they must comply with all environmental regulations.

As a result of stringent regulations, the toxicity of the products and the great difficulties in application, DIY is not recommended; for the removal and application of antifouling it is always best to rely on professionals. More than 90% of boat owners, in fact, prefer to entrust this delicate work to a shipyard, which, being equipped for this type of work, has the ability to dispose of this toxic waste properly, without harming the environment.

Stoppani antifouling paints

Antifouling paints are crucial for the hull maintenance; thanks to “biocides,” the additives that inhibit the rooting of marine organisms, they prevent the formation of fouling on the hull.

An antifouling paint is always composed of: resins (the paint film that releases the biocides), solvents (allow the uniform application of the product), pigments (give the color) and active principles (components with biocidal action that counteract the formation of fouling).

There are two main types of antifouling paints on the market, which differ in the way the active ingredients are released: Hard Matrix are those paints that release the biocidal substances slowly over time, independently of the boat’s motion, and at the end of the action leave the spent product skeleton on the hull.

Soft-Matrix (or self-polishing) paints, on the other hand, release the paint, not just the biocides, during navigation by contact with water, wear off with continued use, avoiding the buildup of thickness, as hard-matrix antifoulings do, and if the initial thickness on the hull is increased, they can extend their protection time.

Choosing the right antifouling generally depends on the type of use of a boat. As a guideline we can say that if the boat is very fast the hard matrix is a must, as the self-polishing matrix would last very little.

Similarly, also in the case of boats that do not spend much time at sea, or spend long periods of time in port, the hard matrix is definitely the most suitable product because it offers greater resistance with longer durability. In the case, on the other hand, of long sailings, the self-sanding matrix is the most suitable solution because as it wears out gradually, it guarantees optimal protection.

Antifouling: when and how

As a general rule, it is advisable to do the cleaning and antifouling application once a year, during the downtime period, before putting the boat back in the water for the new boating season. Beyond antifouling, it would be best to haul the boat out before the new season, so that it can dry out and you can thoroughly check the wetted surface of the hull, bulb, shaft, propeller, stern drive, sea intakes, and anything else that is normally submerged and could show damage.

In order to apply antifouling properly, there are definite rules so that it can perform its protective function well:

Never use a hard antifouling over a previously laid soft one. In fact, it is necessary to respect the rules of application in the quantities indicated and it is advisable to always apply two coats of product, a third coat then, should be given only in the points of greatest consumption such as waterline, profiles and drift.
Dust from sanding can be dangerous and harmful, so to carry out this operation it is advisable to protect yourself with special dust masks and use wet sanding papers.
For the axle, propellers and stern drives it is necessary to apply a ‘hard matrix antifouling, specific and suitable for these areas. The best methods for spreading it are by roller and brush, but with professional tools it can also be applied by spray.

Special attention should be paid to aluminum-made boats: please check product data sheets carefully to avoid running into galvanic current risks. To choose the right antifouling, therefore, it is necessary to take into account a number of factors such as: the type of boat, speed, pre-existing products, water quality and environmental factors, etc… Precisely for this reason, Stoppani expresses in its catalogue the suitability of its products in relation to different substrates, and the different needs of boat owners.

Wetted surface of the hull: key steps

To proceed to the application of antifouling, the maintenance of the wetted surface of the hull requires additional steps that Stoppani believes are essential to the proper care of the boat, avoiding hull damage and nasty surprises when underway.

After washing the boat with a pressure washer, it is necessary to let it dry and check for pre-existing paint, stripping them and proceed with sanding.
Check the condition of the antifouling: if it is in good condition you can renew it with a new coat of compatible product, if it is not in good condition or you are not sure of compatibility, remove it by sanding and apply a coat of Tie Coat, then, apply the new antifouling.
Apply two coats of antifouling, and a third reinforcing coat, to the most sensitive areas. The second coat should be given just before launching to prevent sun, water or air from affecting its protection.

Stoppani: yachting quality

Backed by great expertise, care and research in paint products, Stoppani offers a wide range of products that allows boat owners to decide on the most suitable solution according to their needs and the hull of their boat. You can choose the product you prefer, and even the color that best suits your boat thanks to the wide range of Stoppani’s proposals.

STOPPANI YACHTING CATALOGUE

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The enigmatic Es Vedrà: Ibiza’s limestone legend

DinaRella — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 15:15:58 +0000

Blurring the lines between reality, fairy tale and fantasy of the mysterious island.

Es Vedrà, the enigmatic rock full of mystery rising off the South East coast of Cala d’Hort in Ibiza, has a history more storied than the iconic White Isle itself. If that’s possible! No matter your stance surrounding the 382-meter-high marvel and its surplus of subjective sagas… the mesmerizing pyramidal protrusion symbolizes many things to many people, myself included.

Mystery, history and Hollywood

It’s been said, Es Vedrà is the third most magnetic place on earth behind the North Pole and the Bermuda Triangle. Geologists say no. Hippies and spiritual sorts say yes. They claim the concentration of high energy and healing properties people experience stem from bursts of positive forces radiating from large amounts of limestone, comparable with that of Easter Island, the Pyramids and Stonehenge. Two more circulating beliefs trace its DNA back to being the tip of the Lost City of Atlantis, and secondly, they say it was the birthplace of Tanit, the Phoenician goddess.

The next mystery arose when all navigational instruments would suddenly go astray whilst in close proximity to the islet and strange flashes of rapidly moving lights – as in UFOs – were repeatedly reported. Although it started happening during the trippy hedonistic era of the 1970s… the theory holds definite credence from countless testimonies by local fisherman and extensive evidence provided from pilots. A case in point is the highly public 1979 Manises UFO Incident when neither the control tower nor military radar could identify a series of red beams hitting a Transportes Aéreos Españoles aircraft, ultimately forcing the plane to make an emergency landing in Valencia on the peninsula.

Other more concrete connections exist linking Es Vedrà from historical Greek mythology to Hollywood. First, it was claimed to be home to the mythical sirens luring sailors to their death in Homer’s Odyssey, and “just recently” in 1958, visual shots of the silhouette surfaced in the musical South Pacific where it stood in for the volcanic island Bali Hai.

Es Vedrà’s undeniable link to nature and navigation

Is Es Vedrà magnetic, part of the sunken civilization of Atlantis or a playground for aliens? You decide! What is however wholeheartedly undeniable nowadays is its importance as both a nature reserve zone for animals to roam, and as a popular navigation destination for bon vivants vacationing on their big boats.

Since 2002, it’s been catalogued as a strictly protected biosphere full of authentic natural treasures. Wildlife runs rampant and it’s easy to spot an array of aquatic birds, goats and lizards, including the endemic subspecies of the Ibiza wall lizard. Also abundant are a large array of plant species; up to date, 166 have been identified.

Es Vedrà may flourish the whole year through with fauna and flora, but during summer it’s the surrounding seas that are astoundingly stocked with superyachts and speedboats. Sailboats have also recently joined the scene thanks in part to the Ibiza JoySail Regatta established two years back.

Ibiza JoySail was a vision founded by STP Palma and Marina Ibiza to welcome the sailing world to the hedonist hot-spot dominated by megayachts. Sanctioned by SYRA and ORC, it has become an annual laid-back fun race through the Balearic archipelago with Es Vedrà being a highlight on the windy itinerary. Participation from the professional sailing community continues to grow; this year international competitors including Bliss, Hyperion, Moat and Swan were all on the rooster.

As for those of us non-racers… dropping anchor around Es Vedrà is something that needs to be checked off the “boater bucket list.” Its magical aura is certain to not only touch the horizon, but also your heart. Upon arrival Es Vedrà hypnotizes. Upon departure, it energizes!

Travel tip: As one of my most cherished places on this planet Earth, two personal recommendations besides visiting as a yachting destination day-trip, are reserving a right-side window seat if arriving by plane (for most flights, I can’t guarantee all air travel itineraries) for fabulous views from above, and renting a Jet Ski (from Cala Vadella or Cala d’Hort) to get as close as possible to the monumental must-see mass.

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Superyachts: Arabic and French editions launched

Luca D'Ambrosio — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 21:18:40 +0000

SUPERYACHTS, the magazine dedicated to large yachts published by THE INTERNATIONAL YACHTING MEDIA, keeps on growing. From today, it has been enriched with two editions, one dedicated to the Arabian market and one reserved for French readers. This brings to seven the number of editions, all independent from each other, with which our publishing group reaches the exclusive and luxurious world of superyachts in an increasingly extensive manner.

“This is a major commitment, which once again testifies to the determination with which we approach our work,” states Luca D’Ambrosio, founder of THE INTERNATIONAL YACHTING MEDIA. “The French market is the largest in Europe and the United Arab Emirates is booming. Hence the need to act and reach them in their mother tongue.

It is no coincidence, in fact, that the Dubai International Boat Show asked us to become the event’s official media partner, which we obviously accepted enthusiastically”.

6 magazines and 14 international editions: decidedly unprecedented numbers for the digital yachting reality, which, blow by blow, is collecting a continuous string of successes.

After the acquisition of the two prestigious American magazines YACHTINGNEWS and YACHTDIGEST (and their important domain names), this latest addition, which won’t be the last, strongly reaffirms THE INTERNATIONAL YACHTING MEDIA’s undisputed sector leadership.

“Innovating and growing with facts is for us the easiest way to prove our value,” continues Luca D’Ambrosio. “A clear example of this is our BOATING NEWS APP, where you can read all the group’s publications for free, and YACHTING METAVERSE, the only yachting editorial space in the metaverse to date”.

What THE INTERNATIONAL YACHTING MEDIA has created since its inception in 2014 is a true news broadcasting system that, thanks to the presence of journalists at the world’s most important boat shows, gathers information on the most important premieres and retransmits it through the magazines, in the form of articles, sea trials and videos, to readers all over the world.

A digital system of news fruition that seizes the opportunity that only the web can offer, without losing the analogue value that only real navigation can guarantee, proof of which are the product tests and boat trials that the publisher produces. A true concentrate of dedication and passion for the sea, an editorial format that the more than one million readers a week are proving to increasingly appreciate.

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New Bentley Record Room: where music meet luxury

Silvia Pretto — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:53:03 +0000

The eagerly anticipated new Co-op Live arena in Manchester will be the UK’s largest indoor entertainment venue, and Bentley will open a club lounge inside: the Record Room.

That’s right, England’s most luxurious automaker will have a record room inside the entertainment arena, and it will also be the most exclusive and luxurious club in the city. The Room will be located next to the performers’ Green Room inside the new £365 million music and entertainment venue scheduled to open during 2023.

Co-op is the UK’s largest consumer co-operative and has become a significant presence in the UK music scene. A long-standing presence in Manchester since 1863, when the first offices were opened, it established its reputation to this day by investing in pop-up stores at festivals such as Glastonbury, Reading & Leeds, and Latitude. Harry Styles, a British singer-songwriter particularly appreciated among new generations, is also in partnership with OVG and is excited about the new arena.

“Bentley is number one in British luxury, so it’s the exemplar brand to name this unique room. As the UK’s first private luxe members’ club inside an arena, The Bentley Record Room will put Manchester ahead of anywhere else, including London, for unrivalled quality entertainment – says Sam Piccione, President of OVG International – There’s no doubt it will be one of the best and most lavish places to enjoy live events anywhere in the world.”

Luxe members will have access to the space before, during, and after events at Co-op Live, with the best tickets to live shows as well as access to an exciting range of special events in The Bentley Record Room.

The club’s main goal is to become an exclusive gathering place for music and luxury fans, offering top-notch food service, private host and waiter service, and designated parking, and a VIP entrance to the venue.

The sumptuous interiors of the 100-capacity Bentley Record Room were designed by the Bentley Motors Design Team replicating the custom finishes and designs of its luxurious cars. The space will include low-carbon Beluga leather seating and expertly crafted Bentley Home furniture, created in partnership with Luxury Living Group.

“We are delighted to offer music lovers a dedicated Bentley Place, an environment that is as luxurious and cosseting as the interior of a Bentley allowing them to experience the craftsmanship, beauty, and luxury that you can find in each one of our cars but on a much larger and totally immersive scale.” says Christoph Hohmann, Global Head of Brand Communications at Bentley Motors.

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Experiential Yachting 2023 at DIBS: new yachting perceptions

Silvia Pretto — Sat, 18 Mar 2023 21:52:40 +0000

A forum aimed at elevating human potential and creating new boating perceptions, embracing an holistic style for healthier yachting.

The second edition of the sold-out Experiential Yachting Forum 2023 was held on March 2- 3 in Dubai during the international boat show.

More than 130 participants,including speakers, partners, and visionaries gathered to discuss inspiring topics, looking at yachting from a different perspective: one that sees the multifunctional yacht as the solution of the future, integrating different sectors (healthcare, fashion, real estate, etc…) to the boating one, to have a healthier and more sustainable human experience of being on a boat.

How is this achieved? Experiential Yachting 2023 has introduced a new concept: multifunctional Superyachts, i.e., luxury yachts that are true extensions of businesses or institutions. The goal of this new view is to create innovative connections and bring a new type of service to the public. This is also a new way to strengthen established brands by offering a wide range of features and multi-purpose facilities and in this way breaking the industry patterns used to date.

During the Forum, the new concept of Holistic Yachting was also presented, which is an approach that combines elements of longevity, preventive health care, eco-responsible technologies, innovation, and social interactions to boat living. To make this new vision of yachting come to fruition, a collaboration was presented between Experiential Yachting and AERA.HealthExperiential Yachting and AERA.Health, which together, aim to provide the industry with essential solutions, where the available projects and packages will serve to concretely upgrade or transform the yacht with appropriate equipment and services for a healthier lifestyle on board..

“Pertanto, dobbiamo ripensare e implementare nuovi modelli di business e una nuova filosofia di yachting”. says Maria Alekseenko Magan, founder of Experiential Yachting.“Whether you are interested in longevity and preventive healthcare, remote education for your children, or simply want to engage your target through commercial operations at sea, using a yacht goes far beyond the usual vacation, relaxation or exploration. Today, together with visionaries from different sectors, Experiential Yachting redefines yachting by changing the function of the yacht. The common goal,” she concludes, “is nothing less than to elevate human potential and open a new chapter and a new world at sea.”

Another moment that particularly impressed spectators at Experiential Yachting 2023 was the presentation of the results of the neuroscientific experiment of “Meditation on a Jet Ski.” The experiment, carried out last year, involves Maria Alekseenko Magan’s Experiential Yachting in collaboration with Claudia Batt’s Monaco Capital of Advanced Yachting, and found how the rolling of sea waves affects brainwaves during meditation aboard a small jet ski at sea compared to the same meditation technique performed on land.

With 23 volunteers and 3 pilot participants, Julian Amengual Researcher in Neuroscience and Data Scientist and Patrick Cosson, Researcher in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience analyzed the data one year after the start of the experiment. “In conclusion – Julian Amengual explains – there was clear evidence of the higher behavioral benefits and enhancement of physiological correlates of well-being after performing meditation at the sea compared to meditation performed on land. “We truly believe that these results open a novel venue to conceive holistic experiences in yachting from which users could highly benefit” .

The forum’s innovative format has also been very successful in its second edition, and it is opening up the yachting world, and the industry’s outlook in general, to new perspectives and different points of view that had not been considered until now, as Maria Alekseenko Magan, founder of Experiential Yachting, also says:

“This forum was created with a mission to elevate human potential through yachting and to change the perception of yachting by identifying a new niche for Multifunctional Superyachts and introducing the Holistic yachting approach for healthier yachting operations and lifestyle”.

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