garage on a yacht

State-of-the-art superyacht tender garages

Jun 5, 2023 | docking , superyachts , Yacht news

In a previous article, we talked about winter storage and why it’s important . Today, we are going to see how to take storage to an extreme. Carrying tenders is a common feature of almost every luxury yacht, yet it’s the way in which these vessels transport them that sets the average yachts apart from the truly remarkable ones, which are able to effortlessly stow and deploy their tenders with unparalleled ease and sophistication. Take a look at some of the finest examples from around the world, starting with Nebula , the largest toy carrier with a helideck and a custom catamaran.

Nebula, a remarkable support vessel built by Astilleros Armón and Incat Crowther, boasts an impressive design that prioritizes accommodating toys, tenders, and crew. The tender garage, situated below the helideck, is a veritable marvel, featuring a 12.3-meter custom catamaran – endearingly referred to as the “shadow kitten” by designer Kirsten Schwalgien – as well as two RIBs and four Jet Skis, all effortlessly deployed via beam cranes boasting an impressive 11-tonne lifting capacity. To reduce the vessel’s height to three meters while hoisted on the deck, the top hydraulically lowers. Moreover, Nebula also boasts a full-size helicopter hangar, which can accommodate an Airbus H145 and provides cover for the tender garage below – the largest such hangar onboard any private vessel. Take a quick exclusive look on board.

Octopus is a world-renowned superyacht built for the ultimate exploration experience. It boasts an impressive fleet of watercraft that make it a marvel on the water. At the heart of the vessel lies the cavernous two-storey 36-metre internal wet dock. This is where the two main tenders are kept, ready to be launched through a giant transom door. The floodable dock is like having your own marina, with rows of smaller garages to store all the other water toys. These include a 9.3-metre custom Vikal limousine and two 8.7-metre custom Zodiacs, one for diving and the other for guests. Additionally, there are two 5.8-metre Zodiac Milpro MK-V available for watersports, as well as an impressive array of WaveRunners, jet skis, kayaks, surfboards, wakeboards, kitesurfers, windsurfers, and electric foil Fliteboards. To complete the fleet, Octopus features an 18-metre Delta 54, 13-metre Hinckley, and a new Triton 3300/6 submersible. With such an extensive range of watercraft, guests can enjoy almost any water-based activity they can think of, making it the ultimate exploration vessel.

The Wider 165, also known as Cecilia, was a major milestone for Wider, taking their innovative approach to yacht design to a new level. The float-in tender garage of Cecilia is a sight to behold, big enough to accommodate not only an eight-meter tender but also a three-person U-Boat Worx submarine. This impressive feature was a hit at the Monaco Yacht Show, where Cecilia made her debut. The Jules Verne-esque manipulator hand of the submarine, clutching a bottle of Bollinger, was a testament to the imagination and innovation that went into the design of this yacht. Launching the submersible is a breeze, thanks to the sophisticated crane installed overhead. But that’s not all that sets Cecilia apart from other yachts. When the tender bay is flooded, and both the tender and submarine are out, the area is transformed into a saltwater pool, providing a luxurious and refreshing way to cool off on a hot day. The aft end of the yacht is closed up, and the superstructure folds down on either side to create a vast sunbathing area on the long stern platform. The pool area is surrounded by comfortable sun loungers and shaded seating areas, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view. The innovative design of Cecilia truly raises the bar for luxury yacht design and is a testament to the creativity and vision of Wider’s team.

Sanlorenzo’s Seven Sins, the first 52 Steel model, is a true masterpiece of modern yacht engineering and design. The vessel’s standout feature is undoubtedly the float-in tender garage that effortlessly transforms into a luxurious beach club. To achieve this engineering feat, Sanlorenzo’s team had to work with limited space, leading to meticulous planning, poring over plans and a plethora of engineering challenges that had to be overcome. The tender garage’s technical aspects were numerous, including the opening transom door, the docking tender garage, the up and down floor level, and the 12-tonne swimming pool that sits on top of a glass bottom. Not only is Seven Sins’ tender garage a technical marvel, but it also provides an elegant and spacious platform for water sports and activities. Once the water is pumped into the tender bay and the tender slips out, terraces open up to port and starboard, and a teak-soled section lowers from overhead, creating a large beach club. The club’s beauty is heightened by the light filtering down from the glass bottom of the pool above, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation. The team of architects and engineers at Sanlorenzo had their work cut out for them, but their hard work paid off, resulting in a breathtaking yacht that boasts a unique and innovative tender garage/beach club feature. Seven Sins is a testament to Sanlorenzo’s commitment to excellence, engineering, and design. The vessel’s ability to effortlessly combine practicality, elegance, and luxury is a testament to the innovation that Sanlorenzo is known for.

Abeking & Rasmussen is a name synonymous with excellence in yacht building and they did not disappoint when it came to Aviva. The 98.4 metre vessel boasts an impressive interior designed by British design house RWD, which won the coveted Best Lifestyle Feature at the Boat International Design & Innovation Awards in 2018. However, it is not just the luxurious interior that makes Aviva stand out among the world’s superyachts. Aviva also houses a customised 14-metre Hunton XRS43 tender which is launched from a cradle in the garage via tracks over the bathing platform. This is not just any tender, but a true feat of engineering. Built to handle the toughest conditions, the tender can follow behind Aviva in challenging seas, and be lifted up as the yacht moves along. The launch and retrieval system is incredibly sophisticated, with hydraulic arms and sensors ensuring a smooth and safe launch every time. Beyond the Hunton XRS43, Aviva’s toy box is filled with all sorts of watercraft and watersports equipment, including two Sea-Doo personal watercraft, Seabobs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and more. And for those who prefer to stay dry, there is a state-of-the-art cinema and an observation lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of the surrounding seascape. Overall, Aviva is a masterpiece of yacht design, showcasing the perfect blend of luxury and adventure.

J’ade, the 58.2-metre CRN superyacht, is not only a sight to behold, but also an engineering marvel. With its transverse float-in tender dock designed specifically for an 8.24-metre Riva Iseo, J’ade is a testament to the innovative spirit of the CRN shipyard. The tender dock takes up almost the entire cross-section of the hull and contains around 5,000 gallons of water, making it the perfect spot to store and launch the Riva Iseo. Thanks to the engineers at CRN, the tender garage can be pumped out in less than three minutes, making it easy to access and launch the tender quickly and efficiently. To make this possible, the existing naval platform used for the shipyard’s 60-metre vessels had to be modified, and a study of the compartment’s effect on the ship’s trim had to be conducted to meet the classification requirements. Such attention to detail and commitment to excellence is what sets J’ade apart from other superyachts in its class. Not only is the tender garage practical and efficient, but it is also designed to protect the Riva Iseo from damage, with its very own tub. The underwater lights on the tender garage add a touch of dramatic effect to the whole experience. And let’s not forget the shell door on the port side that provides access to the tender garage from the water, making it even more convenient for launching and retrieving the tender. Overall, the transverse float-in tender dock on J’ade is an excellent example of how innovation and engineering can come together to create a seamless and luxurious experience for yacht owners and their guests.

Lady Fleur’s owners had a clear vision for their next build, one that would challenge the design team to create something truly exceptional. They wanted a yacht that was just 35 meters in length, but that would include a float-in tender garage and a swimming pool for their grandchildren. This was no easy feat, but the task ultimately fell to Bernd Weel Design and Holterman Shipyard, and it was on the first X-Treme Yachts X-105 model that this vision came to fruition. The engineering of the X-Treme Yachts X-105 is truly remarkable. This monohull can temporarily transform into a catamaran, at least for the aft third of the yacht. This is achieved by splitting the engine room into two watertight sections and building a compartment between them. When the tender is launched, the aft center section of the hull then lowers to allow the tender to float out or in. Once the tender is secured in the garage, the bay fills with seawater and rises to become a safe and secure 11-meter swimming pool that sits flush with the deck. The result is nothing short of remarkable. Lady Fleur’s unique features are both functional and visually stunning. When the yacht is at anchor, the swimming pool provides an incredible place for the owners and their grandchildren to relax and enjoy the water. When the tender is launched, the pool transforms back into a tender garage, and the yacht is once again ready to explore. These innovative features have not gone unnoticed. Demonstrations of the X-Treme Yachts X-105 at the Cannes Yachting Festival created traffic jams as curious onlookers stopped to marvel at the yacht’s unique capabilities. The features also earned Lady Fleur two gongs at the prestigious BOAT International Design & Innovation Awards in 2023, a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the design team and shipyard.

Panam, the luxury yacht built by Baglietto, is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and innovative features that make it stand out in the market. One such feature is the garage that can accommodate a 5.5-meter tender, which is transversally fitted aft of the engine room. This smart design allows for maximum use of space without compromising on performance. The garage’s lower edge is placed below the waterline, ensuring that launching and retrieving the tender is a breeze. Baglietto has ensured that this operation is quick and efficient by designing the garage to fill with seawater before the shell door opens. The seawater immediately drains when the retrieving operation is complete, and the door is closed, ensuring that the tender remains safe and secure inside the garage. In addition to the efficient and safe tender handling, Panam boasts a winch and balancing cradle that ensures that the tender is towed inside with utmost precision. The innovative design allows the tender to enter the garage floating, making the embarkation process effortless and quick. This is particularly useful for guests who are eager to explore the waters and enjoy the yacht’s various amenities. The garage design is also partially floodable, which means that the tender can be stored in seawater, further increasing its protection and ensuring that it is in the best condition at all times. Overall, the transverse tender garage on Panam is an excellent example of how innovative design and engineering can enhance a yacht’s functionality and performance. With its smart design, quick and efficient tender handling, and partial floodability, the garage adds a new level of convenience and luxury to Panam, making it an ideal choice for those who want to explore the seas in style and comfort.

The future of superyacht tender garages is promising and exciting. With advancements in technology and design, superyacht owners and builders are exploring new ways to enhance the functionality and versatility of these spaces. One trend is the use of partially or fully floodable garages, which allow for easier and safer launching and retrieving of tenders. Another trend is the integration of multi-functional spaces, such as transforming tender garages into beach clubs or swimming pools. As superyachts continue to increase in size and complexity, the possibilities for innovative tender garage designs are endless.

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Top Yacht Garages & Tenders

Jeff Hubrig Jr. | October 20, 2016

Float-in, floodable garages may sound like a fantasy but as mega-yacht technology evolves so does one of the most important parts of the yachting experience, the dinghy or tender. Every mother-ship needs a way to transport passengers to and from shore or the dock when the yacht is anchored or underway. Although some yachts are equipped with helicopters, tenders remain the golden standard for ferrying guests and owners to and from their mega-yachts. Many yachts have custom built tenders that match the lines or color scheme of their mother-ships.

What’s most unique is the way that mega-yachts store their tenders. Most large yachts carry a small fleet of tenders. All of them are stored in on-board “garages” or on chocks and launch through different methods. Many yachts utilize a davit system to retrieve tenders from their garages but in recent years certain builders have started incorporating float-in, flood-able garages to their designs.

The size of a yacht’s tender is only limited by the size of the mother-ship and the space the builder and owner wish to allocate for its storage. Paul Allen’s 414′ Lurssen mega-yacht, Octopus, is equipped with a submarine and 63′ express yacht. Kleven’s 351′ explorer mega-yacht “Ulysses” was launched in 2015 and has a custom 70′ expedition catamaran it uses as a tender. There are two custom davits in the fore-deck that were designed to bear the weight of this particular tender. For all the areas where the mother-ship can’t go the explorer tender will allow the owners and guests to spend extended time away exploring new areas. Pictured below is Codecasa’s 213′ (63m) Double-Down with a davit and jet ski stored on the fore-deck.

Foredeck Toy Storage onboard Double Down – Photo by Jarrad @ superyachts_gibraltar

Pictured below is Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s super-yacht, Octopus. Built by Lurssen in 2003 it features a stern garage complete with a submarine and 63′ express yacht to take guests to areas where the mother-ship can’t go due to draft or other size constraints.

Lurssen’s 414′ (126m) Octopus – Photo by Jarrad @ superyachts_gibraltar

By SuperyachtNews 07 Dec 2016

Trends in tender stowage

With competition for interior space on yachts more fierce than ever, are tender garages changing in location and size.

On yachts designed and built within the last five to 10 years, tender garages have mostly moved to be found in the hull, with garage doors that open out near the waterline. “The tender slides out on two beam cranes and is lowered to the waterline,” explains Tim Fleming of Boating Matters. “In the old days, tenders were stored and they were visible, out in the elements and too high to launch easily, but I would say that the industry mostly passed that.”

The location of tender garages is also being dictated more and more by the clients’ requirements for the use of the mother ship’s internal space, which has subsequently been influenced by trends in design.

“We are seeing more large yachts utilising the aft area usually reserved for a garage as a 'beach club',” observes Mathew Hornsby, sales director at Williams Performance Tenders. “This is driven by the larger superyachts and has some trickle down to smaller yachts, which is a common trend. It means the tender needs to be stowed either in a side garage or on the foredeck." 

Due to the competition for internal volume, Richard Faulkner, owner of Compass Tenders, finds that the available space for tender stowage is often compromised, and predominantly builds tenders that are stowed aft. “For ease of launching and recovery, aft tender bays are better,” he explains. “Also you are more likely to be able to carry out maintenance during passage with the stowage aft.”

On occasion, MasterCraft supplies boats that are stored on the bow. “This generally has less restrictions, but of course this option means the boat is more exposed to the saltwater elements,” says Managing Director Michael Hardicker. “Tender garages are always accessible, however, are on occasions limited in overall height and length due to the builders trying to maximise the space available on board.”

Having designed, specified and selected boats to be mounted in a wide array of garages, Josh Richardson of Superyacht Tenders and Toys acknowledges that there is a wide range of opinions on what will work best. “We have seen some relatively shocking options over the years with spaces compromised,” he concurs. “One area this has been a concern is on the SOLAS tenders, which inhibit the rapid launching and recovery required." 

Now employed to consult on garage space from concept with some of the major builders, Richardson’s team are advising for increased functional sized garages in the right locations. “A typical garage we are regularly having to provide tender options for is one that is only 1.2m in height and has millimetre tolerances for tenders,” he explains.

Richardson adds that many builders will specify a set of tenders for the yacht from concept – this is a fair starting point but fails to allow that the owner may want to have some choices so that they have a tender to meet their needs.

A tender can be so pivotal to overall operations on board, that it can make or break an owner's enjoyment of their yacht. While tender garages may often come as an after thought in new build design - with other items taking priority in terms of internal space - stowage should be focused on more in initial design discussions to highlight its importance to clients.

Images courtesy of Superyacht Tenders and Toys

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Superyacht Tenders & Toys

Boating Matters LTD

MasterCraft Boats UK

Compass International

Williams Performance Tenders

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karo1776 Senior Member

I have been wondering what others have thought about the trend for ever increasing number and size of garages built into yachts. Personally it is the dumbest idea in naval architecture. Why: It takes up valuable interior volume best applied to accommodation... It makes boats hard to get at in any kind of sea... It seems to make for a messy catch all area... just like house garages now-a-days... What you the rest of you think... its popular surely but I cannot see why.

Marmot Senior Member

What you the rest of you think... its popular surely but I cannot see why. Click to expand...

K1W1 Senior Member

karo1776 said: ↑ Personally it is the dumbest idea in naval architecture. Click to expand...

Pascal Senior Member

Not sure what size boats you are referring too. On smaller boats (under 70/80') it comes down bring a compromise and personal preference. Yes they take space, often in the the ER or laz but at the same time they free up the swim platform Personally I find the worst spot for tender storage to be the swim platform/stern lift. The tender is always in the way making the platform unusable. It also makes line handling much harder and often prevent crossing stern lines I also find it a lot harder to launch and retrieve especially in a chop. A you often have to get your feet wet which can be a pita in cold climate I ll take a FB stored tender any day... Yes you loose FB space and are putting extra weight up high but it s a lot faster to haul the tender up (in decent weather obviously) It s all about compromise and ranking your priorities

wscott52 Senior Member

karo1776 said: ↑ . Personally it is the dumbest idea in naval architecture. Why: It takes up valuable interior volume best applied to accommodation... Click to expand...

True... Tenders are as expensive and the whole yacht used to be (in my lifetime). Makes one think being the tender business might be smarter than being in the yacht building business. True... A tender stowed on deck can be in the way and look ugly and the deploying mechanism (the crane) is exposed to the elements and therefore can add maintenance. I have seen, not experienced, tenders stowed on deck in a permeant built-in cover housing... but this just seems added bother to deal with and if carried to extreme its extreme is like a naval helicopter hanger (god awful ugly) True... A big enough boat or designing the boat for adequate accommodation AND adding a tender garage... what's that going to hurt excepting the pocketbook as yachts tend to cost something like the length to the 4th power... a steep geometric progression of cost to length... for a garage. True... the garage platform, particularly at the side (no experience with that) makes a nice egress point and a very nice dock at anchor... and solves the problem of lady guests and boarding at the gang plank directly from the tender. I know of more than one who has refused such operation and wants to be taken back to the dock! But... I am still not liking a mess to be the first thing people see at the dock... when stern to. Maybe this is a design and crew administration issue but it is an issue with ME. And, really that is how most of the time guests and family see the boat... a first impression. Looking at the Feadship F45 that looks pretty good solution... but I don't have $40 million to spend... and if I did would I buy a "stock boat"... likely not. But... This safety issue that bugs me is that usual Platform at the stern... some deployable on access to the garage... OK in my opinion... maybe if you don't consider a big hole in the hull near the waterline not a safety issue... even with a watertight access door... which tends to be left open too much. But even with gates you can go down on the platform underway... even with railing makes me nervous (not for myself) but for guests, and it is enticing. I should note I am squeamish as almost 40 years ago I slipped of the deck messing around in the Channel off French Coast near Guernsey AT NIGHT... and nearly did not live though it... if not a real good swimmer (Navy Drivers Training in my youth)... and very very lucky I would have been with Davy Jones. Don't tell me kids especially are always wanting to go down there and hang their feet off in the wake... stupid as that is... even, I have thought about it myself more than once. But... taking the tender on in any kind of 'chop' or wave action going on doesn't seem to feasible with most garage systems. At least with the crane you can payout more cable than needed get hook up and winch the tender up straight out of the chop. But this is just me... .

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Dinghy / Tender Yacht Safety Tips

All you need to know about your yacht’s dinghy / tender.

At Van Isle Marina, many of the yachts we list for sale have tender (aka dinghy) garages or tender storage options onboard so we felt it was time to post an overview about tender safety and general usage of your vessel’s service boat.

What is a Tender?

There are many different types of tenders available for your yacht, depending on your vessel’s size and function. Yacht tenders range from small dinghies towed behind sailboats, to larger dinghies stowed onboard classic motor yachts, to high-speed luxury craft stowed in the hulls of superyachts. The terms ‘tender’ and ‘dinghy’ are used interchangeably amongst most yacht owners.

In the boating industry, a tender is any type of smaller vessel onboard your yacht that is used to service your larger vessel. Tenders are often used when you are anchored at sea or moored far from shore and want to make quick trips to shore.

Tenders are essential for the following activities:

• Quicker and easier supply runs
• Picking up guests from the dock or shore
• Entertainment purposes like cruising small coves and bays
• Visiting neighbouring yachts in the harbour
• Lifesaving purposes in the event there are no other dedicated lifesaving vessels on board

Unlike in the Pacific Northwest, in many cruising areas around the world, such as in the tropics, marinas are few and far between, meaning you’ll need to rely on a good, sturdy dinghy for multiple shore runs.

Tender Storage

On a superyacht or megayacht, the tender is usually a small powerboat that is stored in the yacht’s haul – a boat within a boat. It’s usually kept near all the other toys, like the jet skis and helicopter.

On a standard-sized motor yacht, tenders range from small rubber dinghies with oars to rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIB) with outboard motors. On yachts that have a dedicated tender garage, the tender garage can usually be found near the transom, tucked under the cockpit, as with the Riviera 4800 Sport Yacht . With this layout, the tender garage door raises on electric actuators at the push of a button and the tender (RHIB) can be slipped right into the water.

On other yacht models, there are foredeck options that allow plenty of space for tender storage, where a davit for launching and retrieval would be outfitted.

No Dedicated Tender Storage Space?

If your yacht is an express cruiser, you might not have a tender garage, a.k.a. designated dinghy berth, onboard your yacht. However, this shouldn’t limit you from having a dinghy. You can always create a makeshift tender area on board and stow a dinghy on your deck, bow, or stern.

Many yacht owners will also choose to secure it behind the boat on or near the swim platform. The key is choosing a location that does not block your access to critical things like your anchoring station or fishing tackle. Sailboats 23 feet and below must tow their tender – usually a small dinghy – behind their vessel.

You will want to find an area where you can safely secure your tender from flying away, and where you can batten down all of its accessories. Make sure everyone on board knows where the tender is located, in case of emergency, and ensure nothing is obstructing its access.

Getting From Yacht to Tender

The range of difficulty in loading and unloading your tender – a seemingly easy task – varies with where on your yacht you store your tender. When the dinghy is stored on a davit on the swimming platform, you simply turn the crank, lowering the tender into the water from a vertical position in the air to a horizontal position on the water. Then you unclip the tender, step in the vessel, and you’re off. Likewise, if the tender is stored lying flat on the swimming platform via chocks, simply lower the swim platform, untie the tender, and you’re stepping into your tender in no time.

Similarly, if your tender is stored in a tender garage near the cockpit, the lid or cover is lifted electrically, the tender is pulled backwards, unclipped, and slid into the water off the swimming platform and away you go. This is easier with more than one person.

If your tender is stored on the foredeck, using the tender is a bit more of a process, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it. Most yachts that have the option of adding foredeck tender storage will come equipped with the appropriate davit (the pulley system used to lower the tender up and down from the water). Davits can be permanently mounted or removable and are either manual, electric, or hydraulic.

Once lowered into the water from the bow, it’s tempting to jump into your tender and get going, but this is not recommended as it’s a long way down and is not safe – you could hurt yourself and your tender in the process. Instead, use your yacht’s side decks if possible and a line attached to the lowered vessel to walk it down the length of the hull in the water to your transom.

Watch this video from Riviera on how easy it is to safely access your tender from your boat’s side deck:

General Yacht Tender Safety Tips

Yacht owners usually end up spending more time than they think they will aboard their tenders. However short and uneventful each trip may be, they add up over time. Because of this, it’s important to keep in mind a few safety protocols, most of which relate to having the right equipment on board with you at all times, as well as:

• Be aware of the tides and the weather forecast for the duration of your planned use of the tender, and plan accordingly.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, especially as they pertain to the size of your outboard motor and load limits (i.e. Don’t overload your boat with occupants or supplies)
• Always wear a lifejacket.
• Always use a kill cord for your outboard.
• Always check your fuel levels before setting off
• Service the engine seasonally and inspect for damages

Essential Items to Keep On a Tender

• Oars (in case your outboard fails)
• Mobile phone or handheld VHF for emergency communication
• Waterproof torch
• Foot pump and pressure gauge
• Spare kill cords
• Puncture repair kit
• Spare tube inflation valves

Buying the Right Tender

The right tender for your yacht is one that is safe, dry, comfortable, and the right size to match your storage space on board. The weight and the dimensions of your tender are what matter the most.

Ask yourself:

• Will the shape and size fit the space you have available? A tender or dinghy that accommodates two to three people should be all that is needed.
• Will the vessel be light enough that you will be able to get it on and off-board as needed? If a davit won’t be used for loading and unloading the tender from your yacht, consider a lighter weight option if possible.

There are many types of tenders and dinghies on the market. For example, consider the type of flooring, such as slatted or inflated. Solid floors make storage more of an issue, but they are easier to balance in and can carry more gear. If you’re using an outboard, a solid transom is highly recommended but will add bulk and affect storage considerations.

In most cases with new yachts, the tender is usually a separate purchase. This allows you to find a tender with all of the features you need. With pre-owned yachts, sellers usually sell their tenders with their yacht as a package deal.

Curious to learn more? The yachting and boating experts at Van Isle Marina would be pleased to help guide you in your quest for a tender that will suit your new yacht. To further discuss what type of yacht and tender would best fit your needs, contact one of our  yacht brokers , who can give you firsthand information and advice on the most suitable vessel(s) for you.

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How Innovation Changed the Superyacht Garage Experience

By George Bains

The superyacht industry is one in which innovation thrives, where creative problem-solving sets new precedents and facilitates evolution in design. This is evident in the intriguing story behind the development of hydraulic systems in bespoke tenders, involving design legend Jon Bannenberg, Lurssen, and Vikal International.

With the proliferation of large yachts from the late nineties, designers began to expand the ‘beach club’ concept to create more outdoor space for owners enjoy their surroundings. This presented one practical challenge for yachts and their crew. The tender garage was and still often is seamlessly joined to the beach club, which can be problematic when storing large tenders in tight spaces, requiring the use of cradles built into the decks.

Not only can deploying and retracting tenders be a time-consuming process in such conditions, but there can also be risks involved for operational and crew safety, with crew in some cases needing to crawl on all fours to tie or untie the load from cradles.

In 2002, Australian custom tender manufacturer Vikal International, working with the ‘Godfather of Modern Yacht Design’, Jon Bannenberg, devised a simple, effective and cheap solution to the issue.

The idea was conceived during the build of 138m Lurssen superyacht Rising Sun, which Bannenberg had designed. While the yacht was in construction, Vikal developed a tender with an inbuilt hydraulic chock system to allow for better and more convenient use of the tender garage space.

Using hydraulic rams made in 316 stainless steel driven by an onboard DC hydraulic power pack, the legs could be deployed and retrieved in a matter of minutes. This would ensure that the garage space could be clear when the tender is out, and would reduce the operational complexity and risk for crew members.

Jon Bannenberg presented Vikal’s mock-up of the docking leg receptable to Larry Ellison, the owner of Rising Sun, who agreed to have the feature installed. Vikal and Bannenberg then began to work on the critical deck fitting mock-up.

Not long after, Jon was found to have a brain tumour and his decline thereafter was rapid. In the aftermath of Jon’s passing, the Lurssen order for the Vikal Limousine was cancelled. It would have been the first Vikal Limo to be fitted with the hydraulic system. 

The innovation of the hydraulic docking legs has since become a sought-after feature of Vikal’s larger bespoke tenders, and had been delivered for 14 superyachts including Anastasia, Nirvana, Barbara, Mayan Queen, Pelorus, and Ecstasea.

The application and efficacy of the hydraulic docking system remains very relevant to today. It is an easy choice to install for large tenders on superyachts, allowing the garage space to be utilised when the tenders are out and embracing crew safety.

The solution is a simpler and cheaper option than collapsible hydraulic cradles, which are built into the decks of some yachts. Removing the need for cradles, there is nothing to store away when the tender is out, and the deck space can be clear.

This even extends beyond its use in the garage, as thanks to the inbuilt cradling system, the tender is self-sufficient whether stored on-board or on dry land.

It is examples of innovative approaches to design such as this which ensure the experience on water is seamless both for owners and for crew. For over 25 years now, Vikal International has led the way in delivering bespoke, full-custom tenders for the largest superyachts in the world. This approach and attentiveness to enhancing the experience of owners has been at the heart of every project. You can read more about Vikal’s unique designs here .  

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Best tender garage boats: 4 of the best options on the secondhand market

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Owning a small inflatable tender adds an entirely different dimension to boating. Our used boat expert Nick Burnham picks out four of the best tender garage boats.

Having an inflatable tender is not just about convenient ship-to-shore transport when you’re in the middle of a harbour, or access to the beach when anchored in a cove.

A decent tender is something your children can play with (and hone their own boating skills on) and something you can go exploring the shallows or little creeks with.

The problem comes when you have a smaller boat, and dragging a sopping wet inflatable aboard, deflating it and wrestling it into its storage bag becomes a chore that largely outweighs the fun such a vessel offers.

Having tender garage boat solves this issue. Here is our pick of the best tender garage boats.

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Princess v48.

Built: 2017 Price: £695,000

Princess had a V48 in the range before, but the nomenclature and the fact that it floated were about the only similarities. The new model, launched in 2013, was the first pod-drive boat from Princess, something the manufacturer combined with every trick in its armoury to create a boat that was substantially larger.

The big news was a full-beam master cabin, the first sub-50ft Princess sportscruiser to get one. In fact, even the forward cabin, now relegated to guest cabin status compared with the forward master of the original version, was larger than the previous boat as well as featuring scissor berths as an option. Between them, the large dinette opposite the galley could be swapped for a third cabin when the boat was ordered, but it was a rare option.

Behind the galley and dinette is a full-beam master – the first sub-50ft Princess to get one

Outside, you could choose from two versions, a deck saloon which puts a fully enclosed large saloon on the main deck, or a more traditional Open derivative, which stretches a cockpit beneath an open-backed hardtop for maximum day space. It’s this model you must choose if you want the garage, the deck saloon doesn’t have one. Hidden beneath the aft sunpads, it will easily accommodate a Williams 325.

Performance

Whichever version you chose, the engines were the same: a pair of Volvo Penta IPS600 pod drive motors which utilised the 435hp version of the 5.5 litre Volvo Penta D6 engine. The top speed should be more than 30 knots, but only with clean pods – efficiency drops quickly as they foul.

You’d need to opt for the open-backed hardtop model if you want the tender garage

High sides mean that a Princess V48 can catch the wind when manoeuvring at low speeds, but IPS has the answer in the form of a joystick that powers the boat in any direction you choose, even completely sideways. Out at sea, it’s a capable performer with low noise levels that make it a great cruising boat.

Specification

LOA: 50ft 10in (15.5m) Beam: 13ft 6in (4.1m) Draught: 3ft 9in (1.1m) Displacement: 14.2 tonnes Fuel capacity: 1,325 litres Engines: Twin Volvo Penta IPS600 435hp diesel engines Contact: boats.co.uk

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Windy 39 camira.

Built: 2015 Price: £345,000

With a 40 Maestro sportscruiser already in the range when the 39 Camira launched in 2014, the manufacturer was free to create what is unashamedly a driver’s machine. It is pure, undiluted Windy – very fast, very capable and very well put together.

If you think of the 39 Camira as the ultimate cuddy cabin sportsboat , its lower deck layout makes perfect sense. There is no pretence at seating, with nowhere to sit and relax at all.

And there’s no galley either, just a small utility area that houses a fridge (two on earlier boats) and a microwave. The payoff is two really decent cabins – far larger and more comfortable than you might expect from the sleek external profile, and a large heads with a separate shower stall.

With no sidedecks, access to the foredeck is through an opening section of the windscreen next to the helm

The cockpit is what this boat is all about. Full beam its entire length (to access the foredeck you step up and through the opening windscreen, there are no side decks at all), there’s an entirely driver-focussed helm with a double-drop bolster seat plus a third seat adjacent.

Originally the boat came with two semicircular seats (that could slide together on tracks) facing a bench seat aft, but Windy later launched the version you see here with a more conventional C-shaped seat around a table.

This second version also gets a larger garage, allowing a 2.4 metre inflatable to be stowed. In both cases, catering is done via a wet bar and since this is also effectively the saloon, an easy to deploy canopy lifts into place over it and power tensions once you clip the sides in place.

Windy initially offered twin D6 engines with either 370hp or 400hp, although it’s hard to imagine anyone choosing the former (and indeed, no one did). The 400hp motors pushed the top speed into the mid 40 knots.

The later version of the Windy 39 Camira has a larger tender garage that will house a 2.4m inflatable

A 24-degree deadrise at the transom indicates a very deep-vee hull and gifts the boat tremendous ability. Ultimately it’s not how fast it is that impresses, but the way the speed is maintained as conditions deteriorate.

Specifications

LOA: 39ft 4in (11.9m) Beam: 12ft 0in (3.7m) Draught: 3ft 3in (1.0m) Displacement: 7 tonnes Fuel capacity: 810 litres Engines: Twin Volvo Penta D6 400 400hp engines Contact: Berthon International

Fairline Targa 40 yacht tour: This sleek sportscruiser is larger on the inside

Video: windy 39 camira – used boat review, fairline targa 40.

Built: 2015 Price: £159,950

Launched in 2001, Fairline ’s new Targa 40 replaced the previous Targa 37. The basic two-cabin twin-diesel family sportscruiser layout remained, but that extra few feet allowed the builder to incorporate something the 37 never had – a tender garage.

Often referred to as the “golden period”, early noughties Fairlines are always exquisitely finished, and the Targa 40 is no exception, a feast of rich, highly polished cherrywood, pale leather and brushed stainless steel greet you as you descend to the lower deck.

The layout doesn’t throw up any surprises – a central double bed awaits you in the forward cabin with space for two guests aft in the mid cabin in beds that run transversely beneath the cockpit. The dinette opposite the galley can be used as extra sleeping space. The heads features a rotating shower screen.

The dinette offers extra sleeping space when needed for guests

The cockpit is a surprisingly good size considering the space-sapping tender garage aft (you gain some of the length back by not needing a bathing platform long enough to take a tender).

Cunningly, Fairline has left the sunpad on top of the garage fairly short, but equipped the aft cockpit seat with a backrest that folds forward so that you can sacrifice seating for lounging when the mood takes you.

Twin Volvo Penta KAD44 (260hp) or KAD300 (300hp) were the motors of choice when this boat was first launched. We tested it with the smaller motors and achieved about 32 knots in some pretty testing conditions – Fairline claimed 35 knots on flat seas.

But in 2005 Volvo Penta launched its D Series range, and the larger and more powerful D6 350hp engines fitted to this boat ought to push 40 knots.

Despite its age the Targa 40 still rates as one of the great Fairline sportscruiser hulls

Those testing conditions (force five with a large residual swell) gave ample opportunity to check out the sea-keeping. “A joy to drive,” is how we described it on our test. “Try as we might, we couldn’t get the boat to jump or skip, except off the top of the larger swells.”

LOA: 41ft 6in (12.6m) Beam: 12ft 0in (3.7m) Draught: 3ft 2in (1.0m) Displacement: 8 tonnes Fuel capacity: 746 litres Engines: Volvo Penta D6-350 350hp diesel engines Contact: JD Yachts

Cranchi 41 Endurance

Built: 2009 Price: £129,000

The Cranchi 41 Endurance lives up to its name, having evolved from the successful 39 Endurance, a boat that dates back to 1994. The most obvious difference is a forward sloping arch rather than the original’s rearward inclined arch, but the bathing platform is also longer. It’s a sportscruiser with the emphasis firmly on the “sport”.

Despite being over 40ft long, Cranchi eschewed the traditional two-cabin interior with a separate sleeping cabin at either end. Instead, Cranchi opted to leave the bulk of the accommodation open plan with a big horseshoe of seating forward that converts to an occasional double and just the one separate mid-cabin aft. If you really need two cabins, this boat isn’t for you but if you only need one, this is a great layout.

The open plan seating feels huge and converts into a double but there’s only one separate cabin

Despite a design that now dates back over a quarter of a century (or perhaps because of it), the 41 Endurance has lines that look just right. Sleek and well balanced, with a beautiful sweep of stainless steel windscreen frame, it’s one of those boats that looks like it’s doing 30 knots while still in the dock.

Three forward facing seats at the helm is a rare and welcome bonus, although the lounging area is a little cramped. However, the payoff is a sun lounger, and beneath it a shallow garage capable of swallowing a 2.4m inflatable.

The upgrades from 39 to 41 were not all cosmetic. The launch of the new boat coincided with the introduction of Volvo’s new D Series engines, together with drives capable of handling more power.

So rather than a pair of perfectly sufficient KAD series that topped out at 285hp with the KAD 300, the 41 pilot could enjoy twin D6 motors that topped out at 370hp for a top speed in excess of 40 knots!

There are three helm seats and a sunpad but the main dinette feels a bit tight as a result

Uncompromised by the need for that forward cabin, Cranchi has been able to keep the forward hull sections sharp, allowing the performance of the hull to match the performance of the engines.

LOA: 42ft 6in (13.0m) Beam: 11ft 5in (3.5m) Draught: 2ft 10in (0.9m) Displacement: 7 tonnes Fuel capacity: 780 litres Engines: Twin Volvo Penta D6-370 370hp diesels Contact: One Marine

If you’ve got $500k to spend on a motorboat, what should you get?

Swift trawler 54 first look: plugging a gap in the beneteau range, world’s coolest boats: aston martin am37 – the james bond boat that never was, latest videos, sacs rebel 50 tour: the world’s most luxurious rib, fairline targa tour: sensational new british sportscruiser, navan s30 & c30 tour: exceptional new axopar rival, galeon 440 fly sea trial: you won’t believe how much they’ve packed in.

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A Super-Yacht With a Garage For Smaller Boats Is Luxuriously Obscene

It's okay to desire the finer things in life, but at what point do you draw the line between luxury and exorbitance? Probably somewhere well before this insane 200-foot long mega-yacht from CRN called the J'ade, which features a built-in garage that smaller boats can drive right into.

Larger boats carrying smaller boats isn't a new trend by any means; they usually serve as tender craft carrying passengers to shore when the yacht is simply too big to pull into a dock. But those boats are often raised and lowered using cranes. The J'ade is the first luxury yacht to feature an actual garage that floods, allowing a 26-foot speedboat to be driven right inside.

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Once the smaller boat is secured, the flooded garage can be drained in just three minutes, reducing the weight the yacht's pair of massive 1500kW engines has to push around.

As for pricing, if you have to ask you'll want to just move along. This isn't the kind of toy you order at your local boat show. It's the kind of thing that's custom-built and delivered to anywhere in the world you need it. But with capacity for 13 crew members and 10 guests, maybe you can find 22 friends who are willing to split the cost with you, and then work out a sort of time-share deal. Just remember that fuel costs alone are probably more expensive than just the speedboat this massive craft is designed to accommodate. [ CRN via designboom ]

A motorcycle garage that doubles as a wet bar for your yacht

[Via – Nauta360 ]

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“I recommend you try and track down Splinter Fangman,” says Martin Redmayne, chair of the Superyacht Group, which researches and publishes on the industry. “He’s made for TV.”

If you need to park your superyacht in the south of France, he’s one of a handful who are the brokers for berths large enough for billionaires.

Despite his Wild West name, Fangman is clean cut and gently tanned. He’s a broker for international yacht dealer Edmiston, the agent for new leaseholds for superyacht berths in Port Vauban in Antibes, between Cannes and Nice.

The port has one area known as the Quai des Milliardaires — the Billionaires’ Quay, officially called Quai Camille Rayon — recently redeveloped by the International Yacht Club d’Antibes. All the leases came up for renewal in the past two years.

That included A18, one of the “iconic” slips in the Mediterranean, according to Fangman. It can take a yacht of 160 metres and it was announced it had been sold last month.

Fangman won’t reveal the asking price. Smaller berths on the same stretch are A13, suitable for a 110m yacht, which is currently on the market for €13mn for a 10-year lease. A5, a mere 85m, is available for €8.4mn on the same terms.

There are only so many people with yachts that size.

One of them is Jeff Bezos, whose schooner the Koru, with three masts and sails, hit the water last year. At 127m, more than one and a half Airbus A380s, it is a prime example of the difficulties superyacht owners are facing. When he tried to moor in Fort Lauderdale in Florida, no berth was big enough, so the Koru had to take shelter in an industrial area of Port Everglades, with multicoloured shipping containers and steel gantries as its neighbours.

Yachting season is on its way, and the Koru has made its way across the Atlantic into the Mediterranean and, after passing by Gibraltar, at the time of writing it has stopped in a shipyard near Marseille. His is not the only big boat now on the move.

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“Typically, now, you see a lot of marinas are still a little bit empty because a lot of the boats are in the shipyards,” says Fangman. “In about two weeks’ time, you’ll see all the marinas in the south of France and different cruising areas start filling up, with the boats kind of positioning themselves, waiting for charters, waiting for owner trips.”

The race for the largest yacht is well documented but the place to put that yacht is beginning to get more complicated. While ports such as Cannes and Ibiza rent spots for festivals and events, there is the question of where you station your boat longer term.

Most boats of all sizes only spend 10 per cent of their time cruising, says Martin Redmayne. The rest of the time is spent docked. “So therefore people have this thought process: we need a place called home.” That’s not just for the owners but also for long-term crew members — a place to buy houses and send their children to school.

The increase in numbers of the mid-sized superyachts, which are usually 40m-80m, means there’s increased competition to get a permanent spot. The “home berth” ports include Barcelona’s Port Vell, which has a good shipyard nearby, but is half a day’s sail from the cruising grounds of the Balearics. Porto Montenegro in the Bay of Kotor is also considered a prime leisure port. For the south of France, Vauban is one of the few that can accommodate the biggest boats.

“No more than 15 per cent of the berths will be on long lease,” says Redmayne. “But taken as a percentage of the bigger berths, above 50m, it may be 40 per cent.”

Leaseholders can rent out their spots to other boats to recoup some of their costs. At Port Vauban, around 80 per cent of subletting income is returned to the owner, according to Fangman.

A nine-year leasehold for a 100m yacht in Porto Montenegro is currently available for €7.72mn. But as with property, location is everything and Port Vauban remains the most sought after on the coast.

A18 is currently empty, according to open data maps that track ship positioning, at the time of going to press. Sitting alongside it in the Quai in other prime slots are the 78m-Montkaj, the 65m-Zazou and the Sibelle, a 67m yacht with five “staterooms” — more normally called bedrooms — and a wellness area. It is on sale for €27.5mn.

The Dilbar, the largest yacht in the world by volume, used to occupy the A18 slot, says Fangman. Gulbakhor Ismailova, the sister of Uzbek-Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov, was placed under sanctions on the grounds that she was the legal owner of some of Usamov’s assets, including the Dilbar. It has left the port.

The problem facing marinas is how to accommodate the larger boats. It is due to the growing number of yachts above 40m, which are trying to dock in marinas that were built for much smaller boats.

“Owners are starting to understand that the berth supply is quite stagnant,” says Fangman. “It is extremely complicated to start a new marina, especially in the south of France [due to zoning issues and a lack of sheltered harbours]. With more and more boats on the water . . . the supply imbalances are getting out of proportion.”

Redmayne concurs. “Because we’re building so many boats here and we’re not able to reconfigure marinas quick enough. And to build a brand new marina takes 10 to 15 years of planning and local authority approvals so we’re heading for a bit of a logjam.”

Pressure is also building for mid-sized superyachts, “40m to 60m, of which there are about 1,000, and 60m-80m yachts, of which there are 500,” says Redmayne.

“These are relatively small numbers in the grand scheme of the number of ultra-wealthy, but you can see how the market has grown since 2000,” he says, referring to data from his research team.

It isn’t just a safe harbour. Boat owners are also looking for facilities. While major repairs happen in shipyards, a marina needs to be able to provide some technical services.

But it also needs to provide a good place to hang out. Antibes’ port was getting “a little bit tired and old”, says Redmayne. “If you look at the south of France now, a lot of the marinas are close to the end of their concession, so this is the start of a whole wave of upgrades.” Concessions are granted to private companies to run the marinas for up to 50 years. They, in turn, sell on the leases.

The International Yacht Club d’Antibes, under its new 20-year concession, has given its section of a marina a €135mn upgrade, including a new reception area for helipad users, social and fitness areas for crew and a new club house built by the award-winning architect Philippe Prost. His other commissions include the Ring of Memory, a centennial first world war memorial in Ablain-Saint-Nazaire that takes the form of a 75m-wide ribbon of concrete.

No Fort Lauderdale berth was big enough for Bezos’s boat, so it took shelter in an industrial area of Port Everglades, with shipping containers as its neighbours

Also added to the IYCA area of Port Vauban is privacy. It now has high-grade maritime security installed. “There are gates, you have to be registered to get in, which is quite attractive to large yacht owners,” says Fangman, who cites the issues around Kaos, a 110m superyacht moored in Ibiza that was vandalised with paint by eco-activists last summer.

For smaller boat owners, long-term leaseholds are less likely due to price. But for larger ones, buying a leasehold over renting seems relatively small beer.

“It’s a luxury, but it makes sense,” says Fangman, “if you have a boat for a few hundred million, to spend a bit extra and maybe even have multiple [berths]. There may be five favourite places where someone goes. It makes sense to buy in those main places where you have trouble getting a spot.”

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The unspoken rules about how to behave on a superyacht

• The superyachting world is very small, with only 5,800 yachts longer than 30 meters at sea.
• That insularity has bred a specific etiquette, which is often hard for outsiders to know about.
• These are the de facto rules of the most expensive billionaire toys, superyachts .

For the owners of superyachts , privacy is often the most valuable thing money can buy. It's one reason centimillionaires and billionaires pay eight or nine figures for a palace at sea, far from the prying eyes of land dwellers.

Even the most gossipy crew members should stay tight-lipped about the name of a former owner or charter guest, and many brokers shy away from answering benign questions.

That means that, aside from basic safety guidelines, most of the rules of superyachting are unwritten. The very few who need to know them — there are only about 5,800 yachts longer than 30 meters at sea, according to SuperYacht Times — already know them.

But if you do happen to be a lucky guest at a party on a billionaire's $500 million ship or find yourself included in a $1 million-a-week vacation, there are a few things you need to know.

After four days of touring superyachts that sell for as much as $75 million and chatting with the people who buy, sell, and work on them at the Palm Beach International Boat Show , Business Insider gleaned a few key edicts. Given the discreet nature of the industry, almost all the people we spoke with requested anonymity to protect their working relationships, but here's what they had to say.

Take off your shoes

While it's a basic rule for anyone in boating, it may come as a surprise to an outsider that no matter how rich you are or how expensive your heels are, in the vast majority of cases, you can't wear shoes on board.

It's partly for safety — you don't want anyone slipping on a wet deck — but partly to keep the yacht clean. So expect to see barefoot billionaires, and if you forgot to get a pedicure, bring a set of special boat shoes.

Don't make any assumptions about money — but know the signs

In the superyacht world, it's safe to assume almost everyone you meet is very, very rich, and many brokers and builders say you can't judge a book by its cover when it comes to prospective clients.

"It has nothing to do with how they're dressed," one broker told BI. "It's the biggest mistake you can make because a complete slobby-looking guy or couple could be a multibillionaire."

There are, however, a few clues. Watches are one; new footwear is another.

"Rich people always have new shoes," a superyacht expert said. But because of the shoe rule mentioned above, this tip probably applies only when they're on land.

Book your massage early

Wellness areas, including spa rooms with a massage bed or two and a professional-grade facial machine, are becoming must-haves on superyachts . Most have a customized spa menu and a crew member who doubles as a trained masseuse or beautician — and they're usually in high demand.

One captain said he'd implemented a booking system to ensure people weren't fighting for the same spots. A broker said sometimes masseuses would be so busy they wouldn't leave the small spa cabin for hours on end.

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So if you want to make the most of your relaxing time on board, reserve your pampering slot as soon as you get your welcome cocktail.

Pirates are more real than you'd think, and many superyachts have hidden safe rooms

While you might dress up as a fake pirate for an onboard theme party, there are very real ones — and other dangers — on the high seas.

In certain areas, including parts of the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden, pirates are a cause of concern . In the Red Sea, owners are concerned about the Houthis .

Superyachts can come equipped with sonic weaponry, lockdown systems, and anti-drone protection. Builders are even designing safe rooms — which are apparently just as plush as the rest of the ship.

The longer the boat, the closer to $1 billion

While you can't judge a buyer based on appearances, you can judge them on the length of their boat.

One rule of thumb: If someone has a brand-new 50-meter vessel, chances are they have $1 billion to their name. If it's over 100 meters, expect the owner to have at least $2 billion. And for a boat bigger than that — like Jeff Bezos' 127-meter megayacht Koru — it takes many, many billions.

Money can't buy you everything

The world's biggest, most expensive yachts are custom-built by shipyards that produce only a handful of boats a year.

But no matter how many tens of millions of dollars clients are spending, there are things to which builders will refuse to say yes.

"In the end, the boat has our name," an executive from one of the world's biggest shipyards told BI.

They recalled a client who requested a yellow hull to match his Lamborghini . The shipyard declined, steering the client in another direction.

"If I don't like it, I don't build it. I finalize two or three contracts a year," another builder said. "If somebody can say your vessel is ugly, my reputation is bad."

Yacht crews are trained to make the impossible possible. A guest requests fresh caviar flown into the middle of the Caribbean? No problem. Fresh flowers every day while at sea? It'll cost you, but it can be done.

But they can't time travel, and captains and crew members say the thing that causes the most friction is when a client or owner wants to go from point A to point B — right now.

"The hardest request is when they want the boat in a place — yesterday," one captain said.

The best person to know? A friend with a superyacht

Superyachts are expensive to build and expensive to maintain . According to the industry standard, owning a superyacht will cost 10% of its new-build price annually. For a $100 million yacht, that's at least $10 million yearly going to crew, regular maintenance, insurance, fuel, and dockage.

Chartering, too, is costly . Beyond the list price, which can be hundreds of thousands a week, guests must pay for provisions, which are pegged at 35% of the charter fee, and are expected to tip between 10% and 20%.

So the most important unspoken rule of superyachting is actually that the only thing better than owning a superyacht is knowing someone else who does — and invites you along, of course.

Watch: Why it costs $1 million a day to run one of the world's biggest cruise ships

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Inside tennis legend Rafael Nadal's $6M luxury yacht with five TVs and jet ski garage

A s Rafael Nadal's illustrious tennis career begins to wind down, he can look forward to spending more time indulging in his off-court hobbies. While the Spaniard will remain connected to the sport through his various Rafa Nadal Academies, he'll also have more leisure time to enjoy one of his favorite possessions - his luxury yacht.

Nadal purchased the 'Great White' for his birthday in 2020, a custom model filled with personal touches, including TVs for watching tennis. Nadal, a native and resident of Mallorca, finds a luxury yacht to be an ideal complement to his life on the Balearic Island.

Forbes reports that the 22-time Grand Slam champion splurged $6.2 million on the 80 Sunreef Power catamaran as a self-gift for his 34th birthday. The Spanish tennis star played a significant role in designing the interiors of the nearly 4,000-square-foot space.

The yacht boasts four guest cabins, accommodating up to eight guests, and an owner's suite complete with a walk-in dressing room, a private fold-down balcony, and a flip-down ceiling TV above the double bed - just one of five large screens onboard.

The saloon houses two additional 77-inch TVs installed back-to-back, along with an eight-person dining area. An outdoor dining space at the stern features a weatherproof TV, and a fifth pop-up screen is located in the flybridge, which also includes a bar, barbecue, and sun loungers.

The yacht also a swim platform with additional sunbathing areas and a spacious garage for jet skis and water toys. Nadal chose his preferred color palette of creams, coffees, and beiges for the interior, aiming to create a homely atmosphere.

"I wanted to feel like in my own house," Nadal shared about his design preferences. As an avid yachting fan, he was meticulous with the yacht's features, stating, "Of course I had some special requests. I didn't want a hot tub on the flybridge, because I prefer open spaces. I don't need features like jacuzzis on board - I have water around the boat to swim in and enjoy."

While the Great White is not Nadal's first yacht, it is certainly his largest. The tennis star has previously mentioned that the size was a significant consideration in choosing the custom Sunreef model.

"I have only owned monohulls and on a catamaran I was captivated by the huge amount of space. Honestly, in my small port, the 80 Sunreef Power is the biggest boat that can dock there," he explained.

He also expressed his delight at being able to dock the vessel near his home, saying, "It's great for me that I can have it here in Porto Cristo, located in front of my house. The huge amount of space that my catamaran has is unreachable by any monohull up to [30 metres]. That is for me the main reason for switching from monohull to multihull."

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Standout superyacht helicopter decks

Once the luxury of a select few, the not-so-humble helipad is having a bit of a moment. With the explosion of interest in the explorer yacht market, a touch-and-go landing pad is becoming more of a necessity than the extravagance it once was. Sure, a tender will get you from shore to superyacht in good time, but there's nothing that quite compares to touching down on the bow. We take a closer look at some of the best helidecks afloat...

Bold carries a certified helideck with a D value of 13 making it suitable for a craft such as the 3.2-tonne, twin-engine, eight-seat AgustaWestland AW109S Grand. Equipped with proper lighting and fire-safety gear, it is far from any structure that can create turbulence and features opening bulwarks to expand the deck width. While there is plenty of room to stow the craft on deck, the ocean environment is notoriously detrimental to delicate electronics, and big waves or wind can tip even a large heli over. So Bold transports its helicopter over long passages in a garage with a ceiling that adjusts in height to accommodate the craft with its rotors removed.

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Designed in a military-inspired style by Espen Øino , the helideck area on 71 metre Lürssen Skat was the first to be penned by the designer for a superyacht. Located on the aft deck, the helipad has a dual purpose as a landing site for choppers and also providing shade to the deck space below.

Lürssen superyacht Ace features a foredeck helipad marked that bucks tradition by replacing the usual "H" sign with a giant "A" to represent her name. But this distinctive helideck is not actually the main landing site for arrivals from the air. Instead, landings would usually take place on support vessel Garçon , leaving the forward end of Ace, which features a swimming pool and sunbeds free for fun. 

OceanXplorer

Once an oil survey vessel, the 87 metre OceanXplorer completed a refit by Damen in 2020 that turned her into the ultimate expedition yacht complete with high-tech toys, scientific research labs and Hollywood-standard editing facilities. This includes the addition of new helipad at the bow, which has been shifted three frames (1.8 metres) further forward, in order to create enough room for a proper hangar behind it which has been finished with a futuristic top-hinged door.

Ragnar is one of the coolest conversion projects to splash in recent years. Having started life as an icebreaking tug, even the harshest environments are a walk in the park for this Viking-inspired explorer. Unsurprisingly, Ragnar is jam-packed with some serious tools for exploring ashore, including an Airbus EC145 which sits atop a certified helideck, perfect for whisking thrill-seeking guests off for an afternoon of heli-skiing.

Hodor's 220 square metre helideck is fully certified and a CAP 437-compliant helipad sits aft of the 66-metre catamaran's upper deck. The Incat Crowther shadow cat features an Airbus H145 helicopter in matching stealth-grey among its plethora of superyacht toys.

Octopus is perhaps one of the best known explorers on the water. The 126 metre Lürssen hit the water in 2003, commissioned by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, and was designed for far-flung global adventures. She has two helipads on board, one fore and one aft, with a hangar that can store two aircraft. Since her delivery, Octopus has explored the coast of Antarctica, traversed the Northwest Passage and discovered the wrecks of long-lost WW2 battleships off the Philippines.

Planet Nine

To prepare her for adventures in the Antarctic, Planet Nine's helipad was designed with a lifting platform that allows the aircraft to be stowed in the hangar beneath when not in use. This also enables the 73 metre explorer yacht to carry two helicopters at once, allowing guests to arrive on board by chopper while the owner's own helicopter is stowed safely away.

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The fully certified helideck on board Madsummer is located at the bow and capable of supporting an EC135 helicopter, which weighs around three tonnes. Elsewhere on the 95 metre  Lürssen is a seaplane berth on the sundeck. The superstructure had to be strengthened to support the 590kg weight of the Husky A-1C 200 seaplane.

Stella Maris

Yacht designer Espen Øino  re-imagined the typically utilitarian helicopter deck on VSY’s revolutionary 72 metre superyacht Stella Maris . Øino envisioned a superyacht helipad that was a focal point. Rather than trying to disguise the helicopter deck, it defines the exterior profile on Stella Maris , jutting out on the upper aft deck. When not welcoming helicopters, the huge deck is put to good use as a space for sunning and socialising.

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