APSA Chairman’s Message 30 November 2021
Dear APSA Members
To fight against the covid-19 epidemic, the French Government and local authorities have decided, within the framework of their respective competences, to strengthen the conditions of entry into the territory of French Polynesia to protect against the OMICRON variant which is spreading around the world.
Lantau Yacht Club (“LYC”) is delighted to welcome a 51m Feadship yacht, the largest member yacht to date in December. 2021 has been a challenging yet eventful year for the LYC with a few accomplishments. LYC is accredited as a Five Gold Anchors marina by the Marina Industries Association positioning us among the most outstanding marinas in the world for its exceptional facilities and remarkable services. LYC was also the first marina to launch the first-ever yachtcation package in Hong Kong, drawing a lot of interest from the yachting community and received commendations from many yacht aficionados who came to try out our state-of-the-art facilities. We have also become a hip and exclusive venue for industry and private events – events held during the year included Ferretti Group Breakfast Reception in April, Princess Yachts Experience in May, and Prestige Exclusive Day & Asia Yachting Brokerage Boat Show in November.
As the joined operations of both companies begin Colin Dawson believes that the tie up will allow for new opportunities, a wider reach, and more options for clients in 2022. The combination of insurer relationships and market expertise will allow for greater assistance for yacht owners in what continues to be very challenging conditions in the yacht insurance markets. While premiums and deductibles have increased so have claims. With this insurers are becoming more nervous of the risks of taking on yachts and many are pulling back from the cover they are prepared to offer. Dawson comments ‘Expat Marine joining forces with Howden serves to increase our ability to look after clients throughout the Asia-Pacific region and I hope this partnership gives owners move confidence in approaching us to assist them. With this I look forward to growing the business and levels of service to clients in tandem with my new colleagues at Howden’.
Title: Interview with Adrian Scales, Head of Nautical, Brookes Bell
With more than 2,000 kilometres of majestic coastline, New South Wales is home to an abundance of exciting and diverse experiences, both on water and land. From glittering Sydney Harbour to the lush North Coast and pristine South Coast, NSW welcomes superyachts of many sizes in its premium marinas. Step off the boat to golden beaches, meet the native wildlife, try some of the world’s best wines and ocean-fresh seafood, and discover thrilling adventures and inspiring Aboriginal culture.
Sanlorenzo has reached an important new milestone within its Superyacht Division and has recently signed the contract for the manufacturing of the largest superyacht ever to be built by the shipyard, the Sanlorenzo 72Steel superyacht and this exceptional new project is scheduled for delivery in Spring 2025.
Benetti unveils the first B.Now 50M and opens a new chapter in the history of steel megayachts. This 50-metre vessel is one of four B.NOW models with a length of 50, 58, 66 and 72 metres, superbly designed by RWD to meet the needs of the most forward-looking owners. The B.NOWs are unique thanks to the advanced construction technology used by Benetti, which reduces the time for construction by around 30%. The construction technology allows a sinuous hull to be created, marrying the interior and exterior decks with large elongated windows. All four models can be built with the OASIS DECK®, a design solution enabling the outdoor space to be experienced as an oasis of conviviality and relaxation.
SYL JAPAN has worked hard since 2015 with various government departments and the Parliamentary Association for Luxury Travel, to educate them about the superyacht industry, the economic benefits of superyachts visiting Japan and how the previous rules in Japan (which were basically aligned with commercial ship rules) were detrimental to the superyacht industry in Japan.
With Thailand opening to superyachts, now is a good time for foreign-flagged yachts to consider cruising or chartering. Thailand’s high season from November to February, is when the weather is generally at its best throughout the country.