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]]>Ongoing tests at the new test center
Scanner Envy 1300 and Envy 1500
At the entrance to the Ponte Morosini dock is the area dedicated to Scanner Marine. The two main players here are the Scanner Envy 1300 and the Scanner Envy 1500. The former, powered by twin 425 hp Mercury Verado V10 engines, combines sleek, sporty lines with the comfort of a cruiser, designed for high-speed cruising without sacrificing elegance and onboard livability.
Next to it, the Envy 1500 represents the natural evolution of the range, standing out for its larger dimensions and deck layout focused on social interaction, with spacious sunpads, facing sofas, and a central area fully equipped for outdoor living. The scheduled tests will focus on speed, acceleration, and fuel consumption, aiming to provide concrete data on the real performance of these two maxi RIBs.
Quick Olympic Anchors
In the central area of the marina is the space dedicated to Quick’s Olympic anchors, where holding and traction strength tests will be carried out. Using a digital dynamometer and various anchoring depths, the tests will assess the system’s efficiency and safety in real conditions. Onboard the editorial team’s lab boat are also an anchor windlass and a battery charger, both installed and tested over the past four years, demonstrating the continuity and accuracy of the evaluations guaranteed by the new test center.
The section od the test center dedicated to Stoppani
Further along the inner docks lies the area dedicated to surface maintenance and protection, featuring Stoppani, the historic Italian brand and leader in marine coatings. For testing purposes, a fiberglass panel has been created and immersed below the waterline, treated with Primer Epoxy Plus and Sibelius Light Endurance antifouling paint, to measure its durability and long-term protective effectiveness. This test bench plays a key role in assessing material resistance to marine environments, with continuous monitoring documenting the results.
Selva Black Bass 8 and Tender VIB 270
Along the marina’s central walkway is the Selva Black Bass 8, mounted on a Selva VIB 270 tender, both involved in an endurance test that began last June. The program involves prolonged use over time: the tender, towed by the editorial team’s lab boat, has already covered over a thousand nautical miles, facing all kinds of weather and sea conditions to challenge every component. The goal of the test is to evaluate the resistance and reliability of parts exposed to the elements, monitoring engine performance and material durability.
Selva 920 Center Console
Among the boats scheduled for upcoming sea trials is the Selva 920 Center Console, equipped with twin 200 hp Selva engines. This model combines the sportiness of a high-performance boat with the practicality of one designed for everyday onboard living—perfect for those who love fast cruising without giving up comfort and space.
Its modern, functional layout includes a large forward sunpad, a completely open central area for easy movement, and a well-protected helm station with ergonomic seats and state-of-the-art digital instrumentation, including a joystick for maneuvering. Aft, a transverse sofa and side swim platforms create a welcoming area ideal for relaxing at anchor or enjoying life on board.
Halma Rib HR25
Completing the fleet at the test center is the Halma Rib HR25, powered by a powerful 300 hp Mercury V8. This compact RIB is designed to offer the perfect balance between performance and easy handling. The layout is optimized to make the most of every space: forward, a large convertible sunpad; amidships, an ergonomic helm station with a wraparound windshield and protective seating; and aft, a convivial area with a U-shaped sofa and side swim platforms.
Test center inauguration: reception at Palazzo San Giorgio
The inauguration day concluded with an elegant reception held at Palazzo San Giorgio, one of Genoa’s most majestic and emblematic landmarks. Built in the 13th century, the palace overlooks the Porto Antico and features Renaissance frescoes that tell the grand story of the Maritime Republic.
The event brought together a large audience of guests, companies, and industry professionals. Among the ancient frescoed halls, blending innovation and tradition, the evening celebrated not only the opening of the new test center but also the spirit of the sea that has always united Genoa with the international yachting world.
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]]>The post The International Yachting Media presents its permanent test center at Marina Porto Antico in Genoa appeared first on Yachting News.
]]>It’s almost time: the curtain is about to rise on the new permanent test center of The International Yachting Media at Marina Porto Antico in Genoa. A unique initiative that combines the rigor of hands-on testing with the power of international communication, turning Genoa into a permanent hub for yachting innovation.
The test center, which will be officially inaugurated on Saturday, September 27, was presented at the Teatro del Mare during the opening day of the 2025 Genoa Boat Show, on September 18. On stage with Luca D’Ambrosio, founder of The International Yachting Media, were Andrea Barbagelata, President of Marina Porto Antico, Alessandro Conti, General Manager of Mercury Marine, Fabio Montemitro, Sales Director of Scanner Marine, Carlo Selva of Selva Marine, Michele Marzucco and Stefano Lenarduzzi, respectively President and CEO of Quick Group.
“This year – explained D’Ambrosio – we’re bringing an analog initiative into a digital world: a test center open all the year around, a place to host companies and certify the quality of products through transparent protocols. Everything will be documented with videos, photos, and articles published across our six magazines and fourteen international editions”.
The choice of Genoa: a port that speaks to the city
The choice of the location is no coincidence. “You might say: because Marina Porto Antico is in Genoa – joked Barbagelata – Actually, Genoa has a network of shipyards, services, and facilities that can serve a wide range of clients. What sets us apart from other ports, though, is that we are completely open and connected to the city. Here, people can walk along the docks and watch the tests live: it’s not a sterile lab report, it’s innovation above and below the water, right before everyone’s eyes”.
Barbagelata also highlighted a key point: “A physical place like this isn’t just about testing, it’s about sharing knowledge. Visitors can gain a better understanding of new developments, just as we had to do with our clients when we introduced smart power pedestals. Training is essential, and the test center will help raise awareness”.
The culture of testing
For engine manufacturers, the collaboration with TIYM is above all a matter of method. “As engine makers we see a lot of tests, but they’re not always carried out with the right criteria – explained Conti – We’ve fought misleading habits, like fuel consumption expressed in liters per hour, which on its own means nothing. Promoting a culture of testing with clear standards and proper explanations is the best way to truly serve users. That’s why we’re happy to be part of such a professional project”.
For Scanner Marine, the test center is an ideal opportunity to showcase new products and put innovations to the test in real conditions. “When Luca told us about the project, we joined immediately – said Montemitro – It’s an innovative solution and an important way to assess a boat together with its engines and technical upgrades”.
“Our relationship with Luca goes back a long way – recalled Carlo Selva – We’ve even carried out extreme tests together: today, for example, one of our tenders and an outboard engine have been undergoing testing for five months, always on display at the dock. It’s an endurance trial that demonstrates the quality of the products”.
For the world of accessories, the test center is a crucial opportunity. “A test carried out by a professional is not just confirmation, but also constructive feedback – noted Marzucco – In our sector, there are catalogs full of copies and products of questionable quality. Knowing that what you claim is actually verified and tested is a huge advantage, both for serious manufacturers and for end users”. Lenarduzzi added: “I immediately liked the idea of a test center. It’s a valuable support, because the accessory isn’t tested in isolation, but installed on the boat and used in real conditions. For a company that is growing rapidly, especially in electronics, it’s an essential testing ground”.
Test center, a permanent hub for excellence
Luca D’Ambrosio wrapped up by underlining the scope of the initiative: “We are in Genoa, in a country that is the world’s leading producer of yachts and exports 90% of its production. Here we have the very best of Italian and international companies, ready to be tested in front of the public and shared with the world. Next year we’ll bring an important digital evolution, but for now this center is already an extraordinary step forward”.
And when asked what he’ll bring to the next Genoa Boat Show, he replied smiling: “I can’t reveal it, but it will be something new, because innovation is the only way to stay alive. And doing it together with partners like these is a privilege”.
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]]>The post The International Yachting Media launches its permanent test center at the Genoa International Boat Show appeared first on Yachting News.
]]>The International Yachting Media is about to unveil its new test center — an absolute first in the boating sector. This unique and unparalleled initiative in the world of specialized yachting media confirms our publishing group’s leadership in the industry. For now, we can’t reveal too many details: the official unveiling is scheduled for September 18 at 3:00 PM, during the opening day of the Genoa International Boat Show, at the Teatro del Mare. It’s an unmissable opportunity to discover this major innovation together.
“The decision to choose Genoa as the location for our test center is no coincidence. The Boat Show is an important international stage that, in terms of size, number of boats, and visitors, has no equal in Europe – says Luca D’Ambrosio, founder of The International Yachting Media – The Genoa Boat Show is where we were born and where we have always presented our most important innovations. It’s a true point of reference for us, so inaugurating our Test Center here was the obvious choice”.
The test center is not a one-off project but a stable and permanent facility that will allow our testers and journalists to carry out long-term trials of accessories, products, and of course, boats.
The International Yachting Media’s test center will be located at Marina Porto Antico, a partner in this initiative, and will serve as a permanent, fully operational facility open 365 days a year. Most importantly, it will be open to the public.
Dedicated signage at the marina’s entrance will guide visitors who, if they wish, can observe the accessories and boats being tested. The facility will also host long-term trials, with some tests lasting several months. Some accessories are already arriving at the center, ready to be unveiled to our readers during the official inauguration at the Genoa International Boat Show.
All tests carried our at The International Yachting Media’s test center will be featured in detailed video reviews and tutorials published on the group’s YouTube channel. This will allow readers to benefit from the results and gain a clear understanding of how various marine accessories and products work.
The test center is open to all companies wishing to participate. “We’ve already received confirmation from several shipyards and accessory manufacturers—leading brands in their respective segments – says Giorgio Bruno, Executive Account at The International Yachting Media – The companies that aren’t afraid to prove the quality of their products have already stepped forward”.
In addition to dedicated signage, Marina Porto Antico will install a large video screen that will continuously play footage of the tests performed.
The International Yachting Media’s test center represents a unique opportunity for boating enthusiasts to experience firsthand the quality of the featured brands. For instance, visitors will be able to see the long-term performance of an antifouling paint submerged in water for months, or watch a watermaker in action. It’s a valuable opportunity for boat owners to make truly informed decisions when choosing the best equipment for their boats.
With its 6 magazines published in 17 international editions, The International Yachting Media is the most widely read digital yachting publisher in the world. The new test center adds yet another important piece to the group’s already extensive portfolio.
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]]>The post TOUS LES BATEAUX: the French digital magazine gets a brand-new look appeared first on Yachting News.
]]>TOUS LES BATEAUX: the new design of the French digital magazine is online
The International Yachting Media, the most widely read digital yachting publisher in the world, continues its growth. Just a few days ago, the newly redesigned version of TOUS LES BATEAUX the group’s French-language magazine, went live. This title joins the publisher’s other renowned publications: YACHT DIGEST, YACHTING NEWS, SUPERYACHTS, LOS BARCOS and YD LUXURY EDITION.
Founded in 2014, The International Yachting Media quickly expanded globally, thanks to its rich content offering, aimed primarily at yacht owners, who regularly access the various dedicated sections of the portal.
The magazines are the crown jewels of an editorial system that publishes an average of four articles per day across its international editions. Present at all the major international boat shows, the journalists of The International Yachting Media report on market news, test boats, and consistently publish how-to content related to boating.
It’s a massive undertaking, involving the now 24-strong editorial team constantly on the move around the world in search of news, stories, and—above all—first-hand verification. A key asset in this process is our now-famous editorial boat, a true mobile lab that sails year-round to test market innovations directly at sea. It also plays a crucial role in updating our digital pilot book—the most extensive and complete in the Mediterranean, and the only one featuring both ports and anchorages on the same nautical chart.
TOUS LES BATEAUX
TOUS LES BATEAUX is the French magazine of the group which, thanks to the wide spread of the French language—spoken in 30 countries across five continents—ensures global news coverage.
Readers of TOUS LES BATEAUX also frequently explore the magazine’s vertical sections: SAILING YACHTS, MOTOR BOATS, MAXI-RIB, and BOAT SUPPLY—real “mini-magazines” that offer content tailored to their specific interests and needs.
With its new design and enhanced features, TOUS LES BATEAUX is now poised to match the success of the group’s other international editions—a success built on reader satisfaction. From day one, readers have been the true cornerstone of The International Yachting Media’s editorial system.
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]]>The post LOSBARCOS.COM is online, with a brand-new look for the Spanish-speaking yachting world appeared first on Yachting News.
]]>LOSBARCOS.COM is now online—the yachting magazine that has officially joined the galaxy of The International Yachting Media group. The brand and domain, which previously belonged to a now-defunct print magazine, were acquired by the group this past March.
As always, The International Yachting Media moved at lightning speed: in just a few days, the team created a new design for the website and merged its existing content with that of LOSBARCOS.COM, which thus becomes the go-to editorial reference for Spanish-language boating news.
A very important audience, considering Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world—around 550 million people speak it, not just in Europe but especially in the US and across Latin America. These regions represent fast-growing markets that the yachting world is increasingly focusing on.
With six magazines published in 17 international editions, The International Yachting Media confirms its position as the most widely read digital yachting publisher in the world. The acquisition of LOSBARCOS.COM marks another important milestone in the group’s growth and consolidation, bringing news coverage to every corner of the globe through widespread and comprehensive distribution. It’s yet another leap forward following the recent acquisitions of Yacht Digest and Yachting News—the two latest gems to join the group’s ever-expanding portfolio.
The acquisition of LosBarcos.com took place through an online auction, an event that saw the participation of some of the most prominent international publishers in the industry. After several rounds of bidding, The International Yachting Media successfully secured the highly sought-after domain name.
Luca D’Ambrosio, CEO and founder of the group, commented: “We’re extremely pleased with how quickly LOSBARCOS.COM went live. We worked around the clock to immediately capitalize on the domain acquisition, which represents a strategic investment aimed at reinforcing The International Yachting Media’s position as the global leader in digital nautical information”.
LOSBARCOS.COM is already fully operational and includes all the sections that readers of The International Yachting Media’s magazines already know and love: exclusive sea trials, news from the industry’s top shipyards, listings of boats for sale, marina guides, and much more.
So all that’s left to do is explore it for yourself: LOSBARCOS.COM.
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]]>The post TuttoBarche becomes YachtDigest and shifts into high gear appeared first on Yachting News.
]]>TuttoBarche becomes YACHT DIGEST
It seems incredible, but ten years have already passed since the birth of THE INTERNATIONAL YACHTING MEDIA, the yachting digital publisher that, founded in 2013, went online with its first pages in Italian through TuttoBarche.it on June 8, 2014.
Since that day, the dynamic group has achieved many innovations and acquisitions to continue its development path, which quickly led it to own six magazines, now available in 18 international editions.
The acquisition of YACHT DIGEST, probably the group’s most prestigious publication, dates back to 2019, the year in which the first issue of the multimedia flip-through magazine was also released. This initiative undoubtedly managed to bring the beauty of print online, enhancing its graphic design and multimedia capabilities, achieving global success.
Perhaps this is why, after a decade of success, we have decided to renew TuttoBarche.it by giving it the best platform we have, transforming it into YACHT DIGEST. Redesigned in both layout and functionality, in the coming days, it will be accessible from the web address YACHTDIGEST.COM.
YACHT DIGEST will thus soon become a single prestigious platform where readers will be able to continue browsing the “glossy” pages of the quarterly magazine, as well as read daily news and boat reviews that TuttoBarche has provided over the years. But that’s not all.
YACHTDIGEST.COM will also be the chosen portal, among the other five magazines, to house all the group’s utility sections, such as our Online Pilot Book, the most widely read in the world, and the only one that includes both ports and anchorages on the same map.
The Boats for Sale section will also be part of the new portal, which, as you’ve probably already guessed, will bring together everything a boat owner needs in one place, available in four languages: Italian, English, French, and Spanish.
But let’s take it step by step and explore the main updates together.
YACHT DIGEST MAGAZINE
The layout and the technological platform that supports it have been revamped. A fast and multimedia system that will allow readers to easily access boating news both from their mobile devices and computers.
The process for adding comments and/or sharing articles has also been simplified, with countless sharing options available, such as social media, WhatsApp, email, and much more.
ONLINE PILOT BOOK
In this case as well, the Online Pilot Book will be hosted on a new and improved technological platform. With the new version, users will now be able to add new ports and anchorages, which, once reviewed by the editorial team, will be made available online for all readers. Registered users will also have access to the “favorites” feature, a highly useful tool for quickly finding desired ports or anchorages in their personal list.
BOAT FOR SALE SECTION
As always, the new Boats for Sale section will host listings for free, allowing our readers or brokers to sell their boats. For those searching for a used boat, the exciting new feature is the improved search function, which will make it easy to filter results and quickly find what you’re looking for. Additionally, users can rely on the “favorites” feature to save chosen listings in their personal area. In a second release coming soon, the new application will also include an advanced security check, automatically verifying the identity of the seller.
Lots of exciting updates are coming to the new Yacht Digest, a name that clearly reflects the fact that only the best boats on the market will be found on our pages.
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]]>The post Yacht Digest 16: the new issue of the world’s most-read browsable magazine is online appeared first on Yachting News.
]]>Yacht Digest 16: new issue, new 
graphics
Yacht Digest 16, the new issue of the multimedia quarterly published by The International Yachting Media, is now online. As always, it collects the best of what has been published in the last three months on our international online magazines.
A new edition then, which highlights the renewed graphic design of the world’s most widely read browsable magazine, now even more glossy, elegant and attractive. An aesthetic evolution that builds on the success that the previous three years of publication have enjoyed churning out truly extraordinary numbers.
Half a million readers: these are the diffusion numbers achieved by the last editions that testify once again how the only advertising-free digital magazine in the world is highly appreciated by boat owners who, with the new Yacht Digest 16, will be able to continue reading our increasingly interactive and up-to-date content free of charge.
Yacht Digest is a unique multimedia magazine, and this sixteenth issue features a lot of new and interesting content for readers: from market news to lifestyle, from interviews to sea trials. In the browsable magazine, passion for photography and technical expertise come together to give readers the chance to fully immerse themselves in the content our reporters tell.
The magazine offers readers a one-of-a-kind experience enhanced by evocative images depicting the most beautiful and luxurious boats on the planet, which have always retained pride of place within the magazine.
The extraordinarily rich foliation goes hand in hand with the editorial staff’s mission to satisfy the yachting appetite of our loyal readers, who, browsing through the more than 400 pages that make up the new Yacht Digest 16, can indulge in interviews, specials, sea trials and in-depth technical insights, accessible from the interactive index that links directly to the pages of interest, all to be read, looked at and experienced without advertising interruptions.
“An advertising-free magazine is a magazine that is pleasant to browse through, that’s just the secret of our success – says Luca D’Ambrosio, director of the publishing group – With Yacht Digest we have definitively broken down the space limitations imposed by paper publishing, thus creating a news magazine that can move its readers with double-page images and full-screen videos. It’s a top-notch, one-of-a-kind product.”
Also new is the website, which can be reached at YACHTDIGEST.COM and was built specifically to house the magazine with advanced technology designed to facilitate consultation from smartphones.
Lots of new features under the banner of continuity: the wave of success of The International Yachting Media keeps on rolling.
“The great success achieved with the previous issues prompted us to take a further step forward in order to give our readers spread all over the world, a digital magazine that is even more up-to-date and interactive – explains Giorgio Bruno, Sales Manager of The International Yachting Media – Hence our decision to restyle the magazine, which now best summarizes the exclusivity of our publication.
All while continuing to offer the user the pleasure of traditional browsing, but with an added value that allows an in-depth exploration of the topics proposed through interactivity that now with Yacht Digest reaches unprecedented levels.“
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]]>The post Zuzana Prochazka and Alan Jones join the crew of The International Yachting Media appeared first on Yachting News.
]]>The team of The International Yachting Media now has two outstanding signatures: Alan Jones and Zuzana Prochazka. These two prestigious journalists, bringing with them a wealth of experience and unparalleled knowledge, will contribute to further enriching the value of our international magazines, providing our readers with high quality content.
“The contribution of Zuzana Prochazka and Alan Jones will be invaluable for sailing and motor boat enthusiasts, and their arrival represents a further step forward for us – says Luca D’Ambrosio, CEO of the publishing group – With their presence, The International Yachting Media once again demonstrates with facts that it is an authoritative point of reference for this wonderful sector”.
Alan and Zuzana joined our family at the recent Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) where they reviewed many important yachts for us, which we will be reading about in the coming days.
Zuzana Prochazka and Alan Jones land at The International Yachting Media
Zuzana Prochazka: journalist and experienced sailor
Zuzana Prochazka is a journalist and photographer who is an active contributor to more than a dozen yachting publications. She is also the executive director of Boating Writers International and an international speaker on nautical destinations and safety on board. With a USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana has sailed, chartered and captained sailing and motor yachts almost all over the world.
Zuzana will write news articles, carry out sea trials and offer valuable advice on boats, equipment, destinations and navigation, helping readers to make informed decisions and enjoy their boating passion to the fullest.
Her passion for the sea, vast knowledge and ability to make even technical concepts understandable make her an invaluable addition to The International Yachting Media team.
Alan Jones: journalist and boat tester
Alan Jones has been an American boating journalist for almost 30 years and, during that time, has tested more than 1,000 boats by making more than 600 video tests.
He has also been president of Boating Writers International of which he is currently a board member.
Alan has also judged the NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) innovation awards on numerous occasions and still has active collaborations with major US marine publications.
In terms of experience Alan has virtually no limits, he has analysed, tested and written about virtually every type of boat and accessory, and with an enviable technical background he is an invaluable new member of our crew.
The International Yachting Media
The International Yachting Media is today the most widely read digital yachting publisher in the world. With six magazines published in no less than 16 international editions, it has achieved success through its ability to provide high-quality, accurate and, above all, multimedia content. Founded by a team of yacht enthusiasts and experts, the publisher has managed to win the trust and interest of a vast international audience that reads our articles in Italian, English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Russian and Arabic.
The secret of our success? A holistic approach to digital yachting that is not just limited to boats. In fact, The International Yachting Media covers a wide range of topics, ranging from navigation, naval architecture, interior design, practical advice for boaters and much more. This variety of content allows The International Yachting Media to stand out and thus attract a large audience.
The International Yachting Media is also the innovator in digital marine publishing. Taking advantage of cutting-edge technology, it continuously improves the reader experience by making its content accessible on various digital platforms, first and foremost our BOATING NEWS APP, from which you can read all our magazines for free. This commitment to staying at the forefront of digital publishing has consolidated its position as the leading publisher in the industry.
With an extensive network of contributors, industry experts and yacht enthusiasts, International Yachting Media offers a diverse range of perspectives and insights that provide a real opportunity to explore different points of view and gain a comprehensive understanding of the yachting world.
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]]>The post Selva Marine: Italian excellence in outboard engines and more appeared first on Yachting News.
]]>The highest Made in Italy quality, innovative production technologies, ongoing expansion and, of course, its iconic outboards: this is Selva Marine.
The company, originally producing components for the Lambretta Innocenti on the outskirts of Milan in 1945, moved to its current site in 1961 in Tirano, a small town in the Valtellina valley on the Italian-Swiss border, where all the brand’s marine engines have been produced since the beginning.
A leader in the European marine engine market, today Selva can also be considered the only production company in Europe to have a complete production cycle for outboard engine components.
What only few people know is that Selva does much more: in addition to propulsion equipment, in fact, the Tirano plant also manufactures OEM components, an acronym for “Original Equipment Manufacturer”, i.e., original parts for other major brands such as Yanmar, Neander and Torqeedo.
For the historic Japanese company Yanmar, Selva produces complete transmission groups (saildrive and sterndrive) and the main OEM components. For Neander, on the other hand, it produces the transmission for one of the brand’s outboard models, and for Torqeedo, it manufactures both the various components and transmission assemblies for other manufacturers of electric outboards.
As mentioned above, the production cycle of Selva engines and the various components, is complete… but what does that mean? It starts with die-casting and then moves on to mechanical machining carried out on CNC machining centres, the parts then receive specific heat and anti-corrosion treatments. After all these steps, painting takes place, which involves four different stages, and finally the product is finished with assembly, testing, packaging and shipping.
What is really impressive about this production activity is that everything takes place in the same factory, the one in Tirano, where Lorenzo Selva moved in the late 1950s and where, even after 60 years, Selva Marine products come to life.
In addition to its wide range of outboard motors, ranging from 2.5 to 300 HP, Selva has developed a line of inflatable and fibreglass boats that are often sold packaged with the engine, and that allow owners to enjoy the comfort and high quality of Selva.
Proud of its path and activities to date, Selva Marine is always looking for new horizons, new possibilities that are able to guarantee, however, the highest quality of manufacture 100% Made in Italy, as it has been since 1963.
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]]>The post The long distance cruise of Absolute Sull’Acqua: the Mason’s Saga from Canadian Locks to Florida Key’s Docks appeared first on Yachting News.
]]>The long distance cruise of Absolute Sull’Acqua
International Yachting Media’s opening feature in our series showcasing Absolute Yachts flourishing reception on U.S. shores focused on the Italian naval yard’s Navetta line. For our second reading, we follow up with an inspirational customer profile on Marvin and Amy Mason.
The American duo recently navigated their Navetta 52 Sull’Acqua – named On the Water as a tribute to the yacht’s Italian heritage – on a double sea odyssey of discovery first, diving into a six-week sojourn around the Great Lakes, before finishing up the following year with a five-month-plus waterway foray traversing through the Canada lock system, then down the Intracoastal Waterway System (ICW) to Marathon, Florida.
The motivation of a Harley Davidson
Our interview commences with the avid adventurists paralleling their travels to the popular proverbial phrase: “It’s about the journey not the destination.” And I concur! By the conclusion of our chat about their travels, the moving, motivational narrative gave new meaning to the maxim. But to fully appreciate the saga of the long distance cruise of Absolute Sull’Acqua, the genesis of the Wisconsinites wanderlust must be discussed.
The couple’s cravings for “charting a new course” trace back to a Harley Davidson Ultra and a series of wind-in-their-hair tours roaming around back roads of small-town USA without a care in the world or a commitment on the calendar. That spark of seeing the country from a two-wheeled perspective ignited bigger flames with a different point of view. The landscape became a seascape, and an electric-powered 22’ Duffy was splashed in Milwaukee waters in 2017. Infected with the “bigger boat bug,” within a year the Duffy disappeared and a 50’ Monte Carlo purchase opened the door to unchartered territories.
With Marvin now retired from his executive role as chief customer officer for a worldwide training company, he and Amy were hungry for more. Fortunately, their broker had just the right piece of precious cargo to satisfy their appetite, and an Absolute Navetta 52 already on order for Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales (JBYS) went from production in Italy to pick-up in St. Clair Shores, Michigan.
The long distance cruise of Absolute Sull’Acqua: a double sea odyssey
Quick at learning the ropes, thanks to professional captains accompanying Sull’Acqua during her maiden voyage home, and from the family’s loads of local use with continual maintenance support day and night from JBYS – the new American owners reserved the summer of 2021 for a “short” 914-mile trial.
Spending $5,482 on fuel and $5,195 in fees at 17 marinas when visiting stunning ports such as South Haven, Saugatuck and Grand Haven… the voyage, in itself, was a reassuring accomplishment signaling the seafarers were ready, willing and able for a grander getaway beyond the Great Lakes. Once back on land, coupling that boost of confidence with planning advice from a plethora of persuadable YouTube videos, itinerary number two was soon inked.
Come July of 2022, windswept pines and craggy coastlines dotting the Georgian Bay, and the dauntingly intricate locks of inland transport along the Trent Severn Waterway, welcomed the couple to Canada. Most fascinating was hearing the Mason’s experience on the railroad lift which functions by cradling vessels from one level of the canal to the next in a sling or chute, before safely slipping the boats back in the water.
Motoring into New York, locks continued to meet and greet the Absolute 52-footer along the Erie Canal, as did vibrations from a dinged prop. Upon discovering the expensive Canadian souvenir from nicking a rock or object on the bottom of the channel in the Trent Severn Waterway, props were swapped in Oswego, and it was onward along the Hudson River into New York City. After taking a bite out of the Big Apple, the Atlantic Ocean and the changing tides and shifting soils on the Chesapeake Bay came a-calling!
Now midway down the Eastern Seaboard, Maryland also meant making time for unforeseen circumstances gifted by Mother Nature like dodging Hurricane Ian and dislodging jumbo jellyfish from the air conditioning raw water intake strainer; it was also spent reconnecting with friends and family, as was often the case along the way.
During the final stretch southbound on the ICW, the clear skies again vanished requiring anchoring in Fernandina Beach, Florida, (and moving on land to a hotel) to ride out hurricane number two, named Nicole. Then it was onto the last leg of marine merriment, capping off the 3,253-mile excursion with a one month stay at the famed Faro Blanco Resort in Marathon, to give their daughter Olivia and son Connor a chance to connect with mom and dad over the December holidays.
The aquatic aficionados wrapped up their waterway tour de force in the Bahamas where they enjoyed mixing plenty of sips of Buffalo Trace with plenty of dips into crystalline seas, prior to heading to their new home state of Florida. Calling Sull’Acqua “casa loro” (their home) for half a year, below Marvin and Amy share their thoughts on the Absolute Navetta 52, which kept them safe, sound and smiling from the bays to the big waters of the USA and beyond!
Interview with Marvin and Amy: let’s discuss about the long distance cruise of Absolute Sull’Acqua
- IYM: What were the defining parameters and/or prerequisites at the root of your purchasing decision?
Marvin: Our former Monte Carlo had a slanted windshield with corner posts blocking my views, so visibility inside was crucial. One feature we really like about Absolute Yachts is the 360-degree view from the main cockpit deck and the ease of piloting from the helm station. Having a hardtop that could withstand the wind was also vital. The fact, it opened effortlessly with the push of a button, was like having the best of both worlds.
Amy: The aft galley also influenced our decision. It gave the boat a bigger feel by having the ability to open up the cockpit. Also, I didn’t want to be down below when preparing meals, and I liked being so close to the stern terrace when entertaining.
- IYM: What features and creature comforts did you both most enjoy?
Marvin: I nicknamed the Navetta, the mini ship, because it was tall, had a plumb bow, and when people saw us, they saw a small ship, but “mini ship” is also the literal meaning of Navetta in Italian. However, looking back, the 52-footer was the perfect size. We always found space at the marinas we visited. Sull’Acqua also got lots of looks. She was definitely a major attraction and everywhere we went, we were asked, “What kind of boat is that?”
Having the ability to walk around the bed in both the master suite and VIP cabin was great. It was also nice to have such a large size bed for when guests were staying over onboard.
Amy: The abundance of seating areas for times when we were socializing was super. On the flybridge of Sull’acqua, we loved the open space and added two loose chairs where we would start the day with a coffee and end the day with a whiskey talking about the journey. Storage was also plentiful. We kept discovering new spots once underway, and at the end of the trip had accumulated enough stuff to fill a U-Haul truck.
- IYM: Sull’Acqua holds 528 gallons of fuel and is powered by twin Volvo Penta D6 IPS 650 engines rated 480-hp each, how were her handling maneuvers?
Marvin: We mostly traveled between 9 to 15 knots and fuel economy was excellent in this range. The Navetta rode so well naturally at trawler speeds, and when we wanted to pick it up to a planing speed, we could, and we did. Coming down the ICW, we encountered boats that actually radioed to pass us, given that, they were built strictly for planing and struggled to hold the slow speeds. It’s really a shame because they miss out on the beautiful coastlines, and made us really appreciate having the displacement hull.
In terms of navigating, being powered by the pods and autopilot, weather elements were always corrected and we never felt like the winds were overtaking. Having the joystick controls made it easy to push back sideways and pick back up if need be. I also started to realize the value of using the Seakeeper 6 gyro when docking. It made a major difference and I would turn it on about 20 minutes prior for it to spool up. The starboard side access door was also very helpful when docking, or if needing to step out to speak with someone.
- IYM: During the long distance cruise of Absolute from Canada to Florida, what were some of the challenges of the diverse and changing seascapes the boat encountered?
Marvin: In the Canadian locks, the side slopes of the narrow passages make them really much narrower than they appear, and it was crucial to stay as near to the center as possible. We also learned early on the importance of announcing our passages prior to going through, to alert vessels traveling toward us.
We don’t have moving tides and currents in the Great Lakes, so halfway down the coast, the learning experiences continued when entering the brackish waters. During the long distance cruise of Absolute the navigating equipment would indicate safe depths, which at times were not accurate, due to the shoaling. The most valuable source of data was relying on community tools shared in real-time. Also, as we expected, the salt water caused more growth on the underside, and we had to have divers scrape the barnacles off along the way at different marinas.
- IYM: Your YouTube channel Sull’Acqua documenting the long distance cruise of Absolute as a memento to share with family and friends has become an inspirational tool for fellow boaters. From your interaction with followers, has anyone pushed those throttles forward and purchased an Absolute?
Marvin: It’s funny, so far we seem to have two groups of people, those who are considering an Absolute and are seeking more clarity in a general sense, and then there are the new owners waiting for their Absolutes to be delivered and they want tons of details. All the conversations are easy to have because the Navetta fulfilled our needs perfectly.A
Special feature of Sull’Acqua: 5 essential enhancements for extended travels
In preparation for the second long-term expedition, Marvin fills us in on five essential enhancements he and Amy upgraded the Navetta Sull’Acqua with, all installed within a week’s time at Jefferson Beach Yacht Sale’s Holland facility. Each component was incredibly valuable for the service it provided, and this input is worthy of careful reflection for boaters considering a marine undertaking of this magnitude.
1-Water maker and purification system of Sull’Acqua
The water maker and purification system was initially installed for anchoring in the Bahamas to provide flexible access to water, which can be costly and at times a challenge to find. The water maker produced 50 gallons per hour, and the purification system produced 83 gallons an hour.
It also further purified both seawater and harbor water. In addition to filling our 158-gallon tank with fully purified water it offered an advantageous reduction in plastic bottles and reduced boat washing time, it cut down time spent washing the boat, seeing that the water was so pure, no spots needed to be dried off.
2- Motorized tilting antenna
Not wanting to reach a destination with a low bridge and then have to turn around, we installed an electronic hinge on the mast that automatically tilts down the Garmin without having to unbolt stuff. This was most useful up in Canada on approach to lower bridges when navigating through the country’s lock system.
3- Flybridge decking
During the long distance cruise of Absolute we spent a great portion of time up on the flybridge, we added a spongier type of marine matting which made walking around barefoot more comfortable. As a second benefit, the cushioning also absorbed sounds better with less rattling.
4- Automatic Identification System (AIS)
The Automatic Identification System is a shipboard broadcast system that acts like a transponder, operating in the VHF maritime band. For all vessels using the system, it relays pertinent information including the size and location of the boat, as well as, the direction of travel and the real-time distance and countdown until a collision. A main reason we added the AIS was as a safety feature for the ICW where there are many commercial vessels.
5- Starlink satellite internet
We discovered how fast Starlink is from boating buddies, and while we have a router system with a cellular chip, we found all the photos and videos on our devices were consuming the data plan. To use the Starlink Satellite System , it was as simple as plugging it in, downloading the App, and then looking for the satellite connection source to go online. This became our primary internet source, and then we would switch to the Verizon Wireless chip when we were moving.
In closing, as you can see, the Navetta is a pinnacle of achievement crafted for life at sea in longer increments when time is not considered a limitation, but instead a treasured luxury. Below is our initial story on the line for lectors who missed it and would like to learn more https://www.yachtingnews.com/navetta-absolute-yachts/.
Please surf back soon, as our series turns to the equally appealing, albeit sportier FLY line.
The post The long distance cruise of Absolute Sull’Acqua: the Mason’s Saga from Canadian Locks to Florida Key’s Docks appeared first on Yachting News.
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