Organizers of the Monaco Yacht Show 2020 are pushing forward with plans to host the show at Port Hercule from 23 to 29 September this year, but under much different circumstances than previous years.

Undoubtedly the jewel in the crown of yacht shows, the fate of Monaco Yacht Show 2020 was temporarily undetermined as event organizers Informa decided how to proceed amidst the COVID-19 environment.

In contrast to many other events that have now been canceled, Informa in conjunction with the Principality of Monaco, has chosen to proceed cautiously given the time-frame they have to work with and the expected gradual easing of lockdown restrictions both in Monaco, Europe and internationally.

Held at Port Hercule in Monaco, this year’s show will be more “intimate” than in previous years (also interpreted as much smaller) and will be produced as a not-for-profit event to support the recovery of the yachting industry, providing a platform for designers, brokers, shipyards and industry personnel to connect with customers and network in a safe environment.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on all industries, not least the international yachting community,” said Informa CEO Charlie McCurdy. “As we move to the other side of the pandemic, all parts of the industry need to work collaboratively to ensure a speedy return and recovery. We are playing our part by hosting a not-for-profit Monaco Yacht Show in 2020, providing an opportunity for the community to come together, share ideas, meet with customers and start to rebuild positive momentum.”

Acknowledging the changed conditions under which the show will need to be held, Informa was quick to stress “the proposed event will employ the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness” and are committed to prioritizing the safety of participants and visitors.

In support of the in-person event Jean Castellini, Minister of Finance and Economy for Monaco shared, “In the aftermath of COVID-19, it is the responsibility of the Monaco Government to do everything we can to help businesses and industries recover quickly. In this spirit, we are working with Informa to finalise details of the Monaco Yacht Show 2020, which will prioritize the health and safety of all participants, whilst providing direct support to the international yachting community, ensuring it can connect with customers and accelerate the recovery of what is an increasingly important industry for the region.”

Superyacht builder Sanlorenzo has confirmed interest in the possible acquisition of Perini Navi.

Sanlorenzo has confirmed they are in current talks regarding the acquisition of share capital of Perini Navi and has obtained an exclusivity period to carry out the necessary research and analysis required.

Founded in 1983 by Fabio Perini, Perini Navi has been a world-leading Italian shipyard that specializes in sailing boats over 40 meters, boasting iconic builds like that of the Maltese Falcon. It is currently owned by Fenix, the holding company of the Tabacchi family, Lamberto Tacoli, and Fabio Perini (indirectly).

Should the negotiations go ahead, Perini Navi will likely be majority-owned by Sanlorenzo with Italian newspaper Milano Finanza reporting a probable 70% controlling stake taken by Sanlorenzo and the remainder being held by the Tabacchi family.

“The transaction would be in line with the Sanlorenzo business model … and would enable Sanlorenzo to expand its business perimeter and further consolidate its presence in the superyacht sector,” Sanlorenzo said in a statement.

In a separate statement by Perini Navi, the company confirmed it was looking to restructure its debt under Italian bankruptcy law, in order to remain operational at this time stating the goal is to “overcome a moment of significant financial strain, which has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 outbreak and its impact over all markets.”

Perini Navi’s Board of Directors “intends to preserve the Company’s business and heritage, thus ensuring continuity to the important orders currently in build, as well as achieving the highest possible level of creditors’ satisfaction, in compliance with the process to be undertaken.”

Heesen Yachts launches 55m Project Castor “YN 19055” ready for its sea trials ahead of August 2020 delivery to the owner.

Launched this month at Heesen Yacht‘s Dutch facility in Oss ahead of its sea trials, the 55 meter (180ft) Project Castor “YN 19055” was initially built on speculation and sold to an experienced American superyacht owner last May.

Following Dutch health and safety guidelines, workers at the shipyard were able to continue with operations throughout the COVID-19 pandemic by halving the number of employees working at any one time and working in two shifts to ensure delivery of the yacht would still be on schedule.

Commenting on the shipyard’s operations, Owners Representative Rupert Connor of Luxury Yacht Group noted, “We have been beyond impressed with how the Heesen team adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

At 760GT, Project Castor is the most voluminous 55m currently offered by a Northern European shipyard and the fast-displacement hull designed by Van Oossanen Naval Architects is the fourth hull in Heesen’s 55m Steel Class series.

With a sporty exterior design courtesy of Omega Architects’ Frank Laupman, Project Castor has been built to accommodate twelve guests in six staterooms and in a first for this particular class, has been configured with four spacious guest cabins on the lower deck and the owner’s VIP suite located on the bridge deck.

Bannenberg & Rowell has once again been tasked with the interior design and have layered neutral tones combined with powerful accents of color to create an environment that has wide appeal. Smoked Oak Chevron parquet flooring, Calacatta, and Pietra Grey marbles have also been are utilized throughout along with other fine materials.

Powered by two MTU 8V 4000 M63 diesel main engines, Project Castor will have a top speed of 15.5 knots and a range of 4,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 13 knots and is set to undergo sea trials in the North Sea shortly.

Project Castor is currently on schedule for delivery to the new owner later this year in August 2020.