Bold Moves Driving Yachting Innovation

Superyacht Tenders Reimagined

As charter and private yachts embrace eco-conscious operations, Williams Jet Tenders leads the way with its new brand: Evene Tenders. Designed to elevate the superyacht experience, Evene blends performance, ecoinnovation, and refined craftsmanship – proving tenders can match the engineering of their motherships. The debut Origin Series includes two models– the Origin 57 (5.7m) and Origin 71 (7.1m) – both featuring the revolutionary Petestep hull to reduce drag, boost comfort, and cut emissions.

Powered by Yanmar 4LV engines compatible with HVO100 fuel, they deliver up to 97% lower CO2 than standard diesel tenders. Sustainable luxury features include cork decking from regenerative forests, removable eco-upholstery, and smart tech. The Origin Series premieres at the Cannes Yachting Festival and Monaco Yacht Show this September. evenetenders.com

Launch of Modern Ketch Simena

Northrop & Johnson’s Sean McCarter is delighted to announce the launch of the 203’4” (62m) SIMENA, built by ARES Yachts in Antalya, Turkey.

Designed by Taka Yacht Design with interiors by Design Unlimited, the classic-modern ketch blends timeless sailing aesthetics with advanced hybrid propulsion – offering silent cruising at six knots and a 4,000 nautical mile range. With a steel hull, carbon-epoxy superstructure, and 1,670 square meters of sail area, SIMENA is as technically accomplished as she is visually striking. Lavish accommodations for 12 guests and nine crew include a forward owner’s suite with private hot tub, all within an interior highlighted by walnut, antiqued brass, and stone.

A Jacuzzi aft, smart AV integration, and expansive deck spaces further elevate her onboard experience. A strategic addition to Northrop & Johnson’s brokerage fleet, her classic design, hybrid innovation, and timely delivery align perfectly with N&J’s focus on bespoke, next-generation vessels.

Contact your Northrop & Johnson broker for viewings.

Fossil Fuel Free Sailing Yacht

Navigator’s fall 2024 issue introduced readers to the revolutionary sailing yacht PROJECT ZERO. One year on, the world’s first sailing superyacht designed to operate entirely without fossil fuels is nearing completion.

The result of a pioneering collaboration between Dutch design studio Vripack, Vitters Shipyard, and Dykstra Naval Architects, ZERO is set to launch by the end of 2025. Measuring nearly 230’ (70m), PROJECT ZERO is the product of over 60,000 hours of R&D aimed at eliminating fossil fuel dependency while retaining the comfort, performance, and luxury of a traditional superyacht. The yacht runs exclusively on renewable wind, solar, and thermal energy. A five-megawatt-hour battery system powers all onboard systems, from propulsion to hotel load. Hydrogenerating thrusters harvest energy under sail, while a 1,000-square-foot solar array and wind turbine ensure full energy independence. All system data and designs will be made freely available through FoundationZero.org to encourage broader adoption of sustainable marine technologies. “This project has always been about showing what’s possible,” says Vripack co-creative director Marnix Hoekstra. “Our goal wasn’t just to prove viability, but to create a model others can learn from.” In addition to private use and select charters, ZERO will support scientific research on renewable technologies and ocean conservation.

Following her technical launch, the yacht will undergo sea trials ahead of her 2026 delivery – a major milestone for sustainably focused marine technologies.
foundationzero.org

Ponant Group Expands its Reach

In a strategic move that redefines the boundaries of high-end exploration, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP has acquired a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions. This partnership supports the Group’s international growth strategy in the luxury explorations travel market, particularly in remote and ecologically significant regions like the Galápagos and Raja Ampat – destinations that resonate with discerning, adventure-seeking travelers.

Rooted in shared values of sustainability, exclusivity, and immersive discovery, the alliance opens new horizons while preserving the uncompromising standards of refined exploration. us.ponant.com

H2 Yacht Design

Driving innovation from London to the Côte d’Azur, H2 Yacht Design has officially opened its second studio in Nice – marking a strategic move that reflects both market demand and the brand’s growing global footprint. Recognizing a shift in the superyacht market, with a greater emphasis on the quality of
yachts rather than the quantity, H2 Yacht Design is focusing on refinement.

“When H2 Yacht Design was founded, we were focused on 196’ (60m) yachts,” says Creative Director Jonny Horsfield. “Now, we’re designing yachts over 100 meters in size. It’s a natural evolution.”

H2 continues to set the pace for a market that is seeing a continuous demand for bigger projects, including recent standouts like the 600’ (194.9m) REV and the 285’ (87m) VENTO.
h2yachtdesign.com

MTN

MTN keeps you connected in the world’s most remote destinations. As Northrop & Johnson’s preferred connectivity provider, MTN delivers secure, reliable coverage through a powerful blend of satellite and 5G+ technology. Whether for streaming, business, or onboard operations, MTN’s hybrid network ensures everything runs seamlessly. Backed by 24/7 white-glove service and global support, MTN is trusted by yacht owners, guests, and crew to stay connected – anywhere, anytime. mtnsat.com