News

Highfield Boats has launched a new Highfield SPORT collection of rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) for the 2021 model year.

The collection introduces 11 new, aluminium-hulled, outboard-powered RIB models ranging from 3m to 8m. The SP300, SP330, SP360, SP390, SP420, SP460, SP520, SP560, SP650, SP700, and SP800 replace the Highfield Deluxe and Classic Deluxe series and offer boat owners a wide range of hull sizes and equipment options.

Another level

Highfield Boats chief executive, Julien Carussi believes the new RIBs will appeal to buyers as a prestige tender. “The SPORT range will take the brand to yet another level, entering the deluxe RIB day boat segment for the first time and leveraging the brand into new territory,” he said.

Featuring a new, Italian-inspired interior design the RIBs have EVA foam faux-teak decking, LED lighting, diamond-stitch upholstery and electric bilge pumps. Models starting with the SP520 and larger also are equipped with swim platforms. Options for the series (depending on model) include watersports tow posts and bimini tops, sunpads and sport arches and built-in freshwater showers.

The 300 - 360 models are compact, easy-to-store ergonomic tenders, whilst the 390 - 460 models are suitable for boats with larger decks and swim platforms. These RIBS also can double as day boats.

The 650 and 700 models are based on the successful hull used for chase boats in sailing events such as the Vendée Globe, ORC and Extreme Sailing Series whilst the flagship of the SPORT series, the SP800, has a hull created by racing hull designer, Petter Martens.

Wally Yachts has revealed a 13 metre new tender model named the 43wallytender. Developed by Wally with Ferretti Group’s technical engineering department, the 43wallytender builds on the group’s successful 48wallytender model.

Constructed in advanced composite at Ferretti Group’s Forli-based facility, the 43wallytender will be available in a range of eye-catching colours.

The first unit is currently under production and due for completion in August. Featuring a “striking iridescent green hull” dubbed “gator green” in reference to Wally’s first sailing yacht the Wallygator, the first hull will be unveiled at the Cannes Yachting Festival this September.

Key features of the new model include a new ‘centre cockpit’ design that combines “the protection of the cockpit with the practicality and access of a walkaround”.

Wraparound glass will cocoon those onboard from three sides while the T-Top will shelter from above.

Elsewhere, the 43wallytender, which has been specifically designed for driver experience, easy handling and performance, will feature a flush, open deck space behind the cockpit.

Storage in the aft sunbed will be large enough to swallow Seabobs, wakeboards, scuba diving tanks and other small water toys.

Powered by a pair of Volvo Penta diesel 380hp engines, 43wallytender will have a top speed of 36 knots. Owners also have the option to upgrade to twin 440hp engines for predicted top speeds of more than 40 knots.

Speaking about the new model, chief designer and founder of Wally, Luca Bassani, said: “Our team has worked tirelessly to create a new tender that perfectly meets the multifunctional needs of today’s owners while also staying true to our Wally design philosophy. You will not find a single item onboard that does not serve a purpose in its purest, simplest and most beautiful form.”

Wally managing director Stefano de Vivo added: “Upholding Wally’s customary cool aesthetics and extraordinary performance, this latest addition to the Wally family is sure to be a benchmark of the future.”

The European Yacht of the Year Award is the most important, influential and most widely communicated boatbuilding prize worldwide. Which yacht will receive the prize in category will be known on the first day of Boot fair in Dusseldorf in January next year.

Next year we will have only three winners.

These are the nominees:

Family Cruiser:

Elan GT6

Length: 15.20 m ● Beam: 4.49 m ● Draft: 2.45 m ● Displacement: 12.45 t ● Sail area: 113.7 sqm

Oceanis 40.1

Length: 12.87 m ● Beam: 4.18 m ● Draft: 2.17 m ● Displacement: 7.9 t

Bavaria C42

Length: 12.38 m ● Width: 4.29 m ● Draft: 2.10 m (opt. 1.70 m) ● Displacement: 9.7 t ● Sail area: 100.6 sqm

Bali Catspace

Length: 12.31 m ● Beam: 6.56 m ● Draft, boards up: 1.10 m ● Displacement: 12.8 t ● Sail area: 101 sqm

Excess 11

Length: 11.33 m ● Beam: 6.59 m ● Draft: 1.15 m ● Displacement: 9 t ● Sail area: 77 sqm

Luxury Cruiser:

Contest 55CS

Hallberg-Rassy 40C

Moody 41 DS

Bluewater Cruiser:

Boreal 47.2

Garcia Explocat 52

Ovni 400

Pegasus 50

Viator Explorer 42 DS

Elan Yachts’ groundbreaking new flagship model, the 49ft Elan GT6 is the first ever sailing yacht designed and styled by Studio F. A. Porsche, with an elegant silhouette and iconic good looks that will turn heads in any marina. Key features include a next-generation ergonomic cockpit with gull-wing helm pedestals and a fully flush foredeck.

Designed to be easily handled by a couple, yet capable of exhilarating performance across a wide range of wind and sea conditions with a thoroughbred ‘feel’ at the helm, the GT6 is optimised for fast, medium-range offshore passage-making. Its hull, drawn by Humpreys Yacht Design, combines race-derived features with the ability to carry a full cruising payload. As its name implies, the GT6 is a seagoing Grand Tourer.

Exterior of the new Elan GT6 revealed!

Elan GT6 interior revealed!

Elan Yachts groundbreaking new flagship model, the 49ft Elan GT6, has been shortlisted for the international boating industry’s most prestigious awards – European Yacht Of The Year – in the Family Cruiser category.

Designed to be easily handled by a couple, yet capable of exhilarating performance across a wide range of wind and sea conditions with a thoroughbred ‘feel’ at the helm, the GT6 is optimised for fast, medium-range offshore passage-making. Its hull, drawn by Humphreys Yacht Design, combines race-derived features with the ability to carry a full cruising payload. As its name implies, the GT6 is a seagoing Grand Tourer.

Above the waterline, the GT6 is the first ever sailing yacht designed and styled by Studio F. A. Porsche, with an elegant silhouette and iconic good looks that will turn heads in any marina. Key features include a next-generation ergonomic cockpit with gull-wing helm pedestals and a fully flush foredeck.

Below decks, Studio F. A. Porsche’s interior design flair brings game-changing levels of comfort and luxury to Elan’s new flagship model, while preserving the practicality of the boat as a family cruiser. Premium materials are used throughout, showcasing the fine craftsmanship of Elan’s artisan shipwrights.

‘We’re delighted that our innovative new flagship model has been nominated for the European Yacht of The Year Awards,’ says Marko Škrbin, head of the Elan Yachts shipyard. ‘The Elan GT6 offers a unique combination of style, speed, comfort and easy handling that’s ideal for fast-paced yet relaxing family cruising.’

Elan GT6 exterior

Elan GT6 interior

The Gran Turismo 36 is the first boat in her category to combine really comfortable cruising with outstanding handling and sensations similar to those of a small outboard. Enjoy a wide variety of waterside pleasures in no time at all – start and play! 

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The Gran Turismo 36 sets the tone with an elegant and sporty hardtop. Her hull has zipwakes for improved stability when turning and her deck plan provides specific living spaces for use throughout the day. A large built-in sun mattress on the foredeck offers a unique sunbathing space. While the stern’s hardtop complete with sliding roof combines protection and the joy of the open air. The spacious cockpit lounge area has room for up to 8 guests. Aft, a large sunbathing area faces the sea, opposite an outdoor galley. The driving station has two bench seats facing the sea, so four people can enjoy the thrills of navigation.

INTERIOR DESIGN

The lower deck is bathed in light from the long hull portholes. The level of comfort inside surpasses the standards usually found on a boat this size. The two double cabins, cosy lounge space, galley and shower space show attention to detail and a high trim level.

POWERFUL

No time to waste? The Gran Turismo 36 takes you where you want to go fast. She is really easy and great fun to drive, with space on board to relax, enjoy yourself and sleep comfortably.

EASY TO DRIVE

With inboard engine, diesel 2x300 HP, or with outboard engine 2x300 HP or 2x350 HP, she reaches top speeds that vary between 30 and 35 knots. With a joystick on top of a steering wheel, handling the fast Gran Turismo 36 cruiser is child’s play. Fitted with a bow drive and two Garmin 12” screens, she takes navigation assistance to new levels

INNOVATIVE SUNBATHS

In the cockpit, the large sun lounger extends to meet the swim platform, offering a true terrace over the sea. A large built-in sun mattress on the foredeck provides a safe and pleasant place to relax when the boat is underway. Protected by a sun awning (option) and equipped with modular head-rests, cup-holders and inner speakers,  it becomes a living space in its own right. 

TWO GALLEYS

An outdoor galley, protected by the hardtop, overlooks the swim platform and is key to social life on board. As for the main galley on the lower deck, its level of equipment is up to all kinds of culinary exploits.

TWO CABINS AND A SHOWER SPACE

The forward peak has generous space for a real owner cabin with a double bed and storage. An aft guest cabin provides two extra berths that can be brought together or separated depending on the crew on board. The shower space has a shower cubicle and washbasin, and the head is separate.

CHARACTERISTICS

• Length overall: 11.56 m
• Hull Length: 11.28 m
• Hull Beam: 3.48 m
• Light displacement: 7304 kg (inboard version)
• Fuel tank capacity: 2 x 408 L
• Fresh water capacity: 150 L
• Engine Power (Hp): 2 x 300 CV (inboard version)
• CE Certification : B8 / C10
• NAVAL ARCHITECT : BENETEAU Power Boats
• DESIGN : Style & Design / Andreani Design