Sea Yachting 17-1 by Easy Branches Co., Ltd.

NEW

ALMOST TWINS MAGNETIC. DYNAMIC. EPIC.

CRUISER SERIES

FLYBRIDGE SERIES

OUTBOARD V-SERIES

Enjoy the

Feel the

Combine functionality with

LIGHT

SPACE

DESIGN

SPORT SERIES

EXPERIENCE GERMAN QUALITY

SEA Yacht Sales | email: inq@sea-yss.com Thailand Chanpen +6694 591 4614 | Malaysia Paul +6017 419 6933 Chinese/Malay Su +6012 429 3000 | SEA Region Rob +6681 370 1995c

www.sealine.com

Southeast Asia’s yachting and marine industry magazine

C o n t e n t s 18

Marine continues its standard of 18 Simpson excellence

From the Aquila 22 to the Aquila 54 and later on in the issue the Aquila 70 and Grand Trawler, we prole some of the great power boats that Simpson Marine brokers and sells in this region.

Williams reviews the Hanse 388 & 22 Rob Hanse 418

These progressive Hanse models continue the evolution from their predecessors with enhanced, comfort, ease of sailing and performance integrating innovative design and advanced technology.

Yacht Transport’s Superb Sea26 Sevenstar fastening Equipment

Marieke Derks takes us through two years of careful preparations, design, re-engineering, 3D modeling and calculations resulting in Lloyd’s Register Design Appraisals for most of Sevenstar Yacht Transport’s sea fastening systems.

32 A history of boat shows in Thailand

Paul Poole breaks down Thailand’s endless boat show controversy stretching back to the rst show, Phuket International Marine Expo (PIMEX), held in 2003 at the Phuket Boat Lagoon (PBL).

56 58

Bay Regatta celebrates 25 years on the water

Simon James & Kae Wattana held their third Bay Regatta during the Covid pandemic taking sailors through some of the world’s most stunning cruising grounds in and around Phang Nga Bay.

East Marine Asia meets all your anti-fouling needs

Antifouling is one of the most toxic substances we put in our oceans and by using improperly mixed antifouling many people in the marine industry are causing more damage to the oceans than they know. East Marine Asia is trying to educate people & change that.

Jai Dee Regatta delivers good-hearted regatta

The Phuket Yacht Club has continued to be a beacon of light for local sailors during a very difcult time and the Club shone through again staging the third annual Jai Dee regatta in late 2021.

A history of Mark Pescott’s Fireflies

Raja Muda returns after a year’s hiatus

These swift and small catamarans changed the racing scene in Phuket. Bob Mott brings us up to speed on how they came about & grew.

Forced to skip a year because of Covid-19, the Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta, one of the most popular & storied regattas in Southeast Asia, returned in late 2021 and promises a big eet for the 2022 race.

www.seayachtingmagazine.com

Regional 10 NEWS

Hanse 460 is "European Yacht of the Year 2022" The Hanse 460 has been named "European Yacht of the Year 2022" by an international jury of experts. Due to the Corona virus, the award ceremony was held online again this year, as the water sports show boot Düsseldorf, where the awards are traditionally presented at the agship gala, had to be cancelled once more. In the Family Cruiser category, the Hanse 460 prevailed against renowned competitors such as the Dufour 470 or the Oceanis 34, and was thus able to claim the world's most important award in the sailboat industry. The Hanse 460 combines radically innovative design with traditional Hanse values such as fast cruising and easy sailing. The newly developed, hydrodynamic hull manages the balancing act between a narrow waterline, for better hull speed, and a wide hull above the waterline with chines fore and aft, giving the greatest possible interior space. The new deck design has 14 opening hatches and eight opening windows to offer maximum light and ventilation below deck. Generous sail areas of 114sqm upwind and 234sqm downwind contribute to the enormous performance potential of the Hanse 460. The standard bowsprit with integrated anchor arm serves as a forward tack point for the headsail and gennaker and can take a second forestay for the genoa or reacher. No fewer than 48 layout combinations give customers every opportunity to congure their Hanse 460 to suit their needs.

Accolades

Toby Hodges, Yachting World - Great Britain: "The Hanse 460 convinces with attractive aesthetics, offers enjoyable sailing and the feeling of an even bigger yacht." Pasi Nuutinen, Vene - Finland: "Old Hanse values have been preserved, plus decent quality and value for money." Andreas Unger, Product Manager, Hanse: "We are incredibly proud to have brought the Oscar of the sailing industry back to Greifswald. The entire team has worked passionately on the boat and fought for this success. Our decision to work with the designers from Berret-Racoupeau for the rst time has been proven absolutely right. This success, also in terms of sales gures, is overwhelming." All info about the Hanse 460 on www.hanseyachts.com

Regional

NEWS 11

Regional 12 NEWS

NEW FOUNTAINE PAJOT PRODUCTION SLOTS

Isla 40

Although the Fountaine Pajot shipyard has sold out on most models until 2025, Multihull Solutions has managed to secure several production slots to ensure its clients in the Asia Pacific region don’t miss out and can get on the water sooner. This is an extremely exciting opportunity that we expect won’t take long to sell out. Following are the current availabilities (ex-factory from France) for secured slots. Elba 45

Astrea 42

Isla 40 – May 2023 onwards Astrea 42 – November 2023 onwards Elba 45 – December 2023 onwards Tanna 47 – April 2023 onwards New 51 – September 2023 onwards Please keep in mind the stock vessels often change overnight, and they are also limited and in very high demand so you must act quickly if you wish to own one of these models soon. Contact the Multihull Solutions new yacht sales team (info@multisolutions. com.au) to get a personalized quotation on your preferred model.

Q & A with Lisa Mackenzie, the manager of Racer Marina A.) Where you are located? Racer Marina is situated at the mouth of Pranburi River, south of Hua Hin. We offer easy access to the sea along with the invaluable security of sheltered moorings. B.) Is entry & exit dictated by the tides? We are located up the river so we are dictated by tides, but we keep up to date on the latest tide timetable so everyone knows the optimum times to enter and leave the marina. C.) How many wet & dry berths do you have? We have 120 wet berths and 200 dry berths (40 dry berths are dedicated to our covered hardstand) D.) Please describe your facilities & services. We have a boat ramp and travel lift. Onsite, we have an international café/restaurant. There’s also a chandlery and our management is uent in English, French and Thai. There’s 24/7 security service with CCTV. Cars and motorbikes can also be rented through the marina. E.) What trades are available? Trades are either available on site or willing to come to the marina. We have a an electrician, mechanic and welder on site. Carpenters and painters are available on request. F.) What is your travel lift capacity? 35 tons. G.) What are some interesting local attractions? You can visit the Phraya Nakon Cave, it’s amazing and we have a number of well-known golf courses, e.g. Black Mountain, Springeld, etc. There are also many excellent restaurants and dining options in the Hua Hin area and there is a beautiful Chinese temple looking over the marina. H) What is the best contact info for you? Lisa Mackenzie, Manager of Racer Marina, manager@racer-marina.com, Mobile: +66 (0)950168666.

Regional

NEWS 13

Thailand’s TEST & GO rules to ease from 1 March 2022

Travellers can arrive in Thailand by air, land, and water with the required prepaid accommodation reduced to 1 night or on board for those arriving on a yacht and COVID-19 tests are revised to 1 RT-PCR and 1 self-ATK from March 1st. Thailand is lifting restrictions and now opening to travellers from any country around the world. Fully vaccinated travellers can apply for a Thailand Pass under either the TEST & GO scheme or Sandbox programme. Meanwhile, travellers from any country around the world, regardless of their vaccination status, can enter Thailand under the Alternative Quarantine entry scheme. International yachts and superyachts are now actively planning to include Asia Pacific’s ‘Superyacht Hub’, Phuket Island, as a favored destination as a result of changing rules. Phuket also serves as the gateway to the vast Gulf of Thailand and Koh Samui, the ‘Jewel in the crown of Thailand’. The following new rules will be in effect from 1 March, 2022 and travellers can enter into Thailand on 7 March, 2022. Yachts can check with their agent to ensure information stays the same in accordance with the official announcement in the Royal Thai Government Gazette, expected to be released soon.

Points of entry:

By air (direct international flight or transit domestically via dedicated flights.) By land (at the border checkpoints in Nong Khai, Udon Thani, and Songkhla.) By water (yachts.)

Eligible travellers / countries:

For arrivals by air and water: Thai citizens and foreign travellers from all countries/territories.

Entry registration system:

For arrivals by air and land: Thailand Pass system. For arrivals by water: Certificate of Entry system.

Quarantine requirement:

For arrivals by air and land: No quarantine, but on Day 1 must wait for the COVID-19 test result within an approved SHA Extra Plus (SHA++) or alternative quarantine facility. For arrivals by water: No quarantine, but on Day 1 must wait for the COVID-19 test result on board the travelling vessel (yacht).

Accommodation requirement (if not on board the traveling yacht):

A proof of prepayment for 1 night of accommodation at government-approved hotel/s; such as, SHA Extra Plus (SHA++) on Day 1.

Health insurance:

An insurance policy with coverage no less than US$20,000. Thais and foreign expatriates under Thailand’s national healthcare coverage are exempt from this requirement. (vessels to check with yacht agent)

COVID-19 testing requirements:

For arrivals by air and land: First test on Day 1 by an RT-PCR method (wait for the result within the hotel), and the second test on Day 5 by a self-ATK method (must report/record the result via the application). For arrivals by water: First test on Day 1 by an RT-PCR method (wait for the result on board the vessel), and the second on Day 5 by a self-ATK method (must report/record the result via the application). Thailand is now lifting restrictions and opening to travellers from any country around the world. Fully vaccinated travellers can apply for a Thailand Pass under either the TEST & GO scheme or Sandbox programme. Meanwhile, travellers from any country around the world, regardless of their vaccination status, can enter Thailand under the Alternative Quarantine entry scheme. International yachts and superyachts are now actively planning to include Asia Pacific’s ‘Superyacht Hub’, Phuket Island and Thailand – once again as a favored destination. “We encourage international vessels to contact us directly for further information and expert guidance on returning to Phuket to cruise the stunning islands of the vast Andaman Seas and Gulf of Thailand”, said Gordon Fernandes and Captain Charlie Dwyer of Asia Pacific Superyachts Phuket and the ‘Jewel on the Crown’, Koh Samui.

Regional 14 NEWS

Yachts can now arrive directly into Bali The first Singapore Airlines flight to land in Bali in nearly two years received a warm welcome February 16th, with the plane carrying the single largest number of passengers on a commercial international flight to the Indonesian island since it closed to foreign tourists in March 2020. Bali (for yachts) was never closed and even the international airport has been open to commercial international flights since October (boat arrival has always open); however there were no scheduled international flights. Now the news is international flights have started to schedule direct landings into Bali, hence headlines reflecting ‘Bali Opening’. “We can ensure our clients are aware of the last-known situation for yacht arrivals”, notes Captain Thomas Taatjes of Asia Pacific Superyachts Bali, reporting the following criteria is now established in easing the arrival of foreign-flagged yachts: - yachts can arrive direct into Bali - visa in advance of arrival and valid 6 months for all nationalities (for those fully vaccinated) - onboard crew arrival can quarantine at 4 nights - guests can fly in can go directly to the yacht Starting March 1, tourists who have received three COVID-19 vaccine doses will be able to quarantine for just three days. There is also news and a released timeline that quarantine coming into Indonesia will be scrapped all together in April along with Visa on Arrival facilities back open. A government official in Indonesia says the country could lift all quarantine requirements for international arrivals from April, as the Covid-19 hospitalisation and death rates are now under control. According to a Bloomberg report, the suggestion was made by Luhut Panjaitan, who oversees the government’s pandemic response on the islands of Java and Bali. He went on to say that from next week, quarantine will be reduced from 5 days to 3 for international arrivals who’ve received a third vaccine dose. However, PCR testing on arrival will remain a condition of entry. Indonesia re-opened in February 2022 and applications from yachts for the B211A visa are now welcomed. This visa is for a period of 180 days, 60 days first followed by four extensions of 30 days each time. All crew must obtain a negative PCR test, taken 72 hours prior to departure from the last port. Your agent will handle paperwork which includes test results and the following paperwork to be given to the marina at your port of entry: copies of visas; boat registration; insurance; port clearance; stamped crew list; vessel declaration form; copies of all crew passports. Once quarantine has been completed and all crew test negatively, yachts are free to sail in Indonesian waters. For more information contact thomas@asia-pacific-superyachts.com and www.asia-pacific-superyachts.com

Regional

NEWS 15

Services include:

• • • • •

Marine repairs and restoration

Rigging Race boat management Rubber dinghy repairs Yacht delivery

Contact is Nick Gutry

Mobile: +66 61 570 5262 Email: nick@boatworksphuket.com https://www.facebook.com/ boatworksphuket Boatworks Phuket,.Co. Ltd. 37/14 Moo.10 Soi Yot Sane, Jaofa west Road, Chalong, Muang Phuket, Phuket 83130

Regional 16 NEWS

Suzuki Announces New Marine Accessories at Cannes Yachting Festival

Suzuki Motor Corporation announced the launch of new Suzuki Precision Control, a renewed electronic throttle and shift system, and the new Keyless Start System, which starts the engines with one push of a button, at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2021. Suzuki also announced a software update of the color LCD Suzuki Multi-function Gauge. The festival is held in Cannes, southeast France from 7 to 12 September 2021.

New Suzuki Precision Contro

t The features and design of the Suzuki Precision Control, which electronically controls the throttle opening, shift position (forward, reverse, etc.), have been completely renewed. t For the 2-lever dual top mount controller (for multiple outboards), the maximum number of outboard motors that can be operated with a single controller has been increased from 4 to 6, responding to the requests of customers who rig multiple outboard motors to their boat. In addition, Suzuki’s rst “1 lever mode” feature has been added, which allows all outboard motors to be controlled with only the port side lever, for better usability. t Suzuki’s rst automatic trim system, which automatically adjusts the tilt of the outboard motor to the appropriate angle while driving, has been adopted for a more comfortable boating and better fuel economy, regardless of user skill. t The controller and switch panels have been designed with a black keynote, giving it a uni ed and chic look.

Regional

NEWS 17

New Keyless Start System

t First ever*1 outboard motor to adopt a Keyless Start System which enables users with the key fob to start multiple engines with only one push of a button, improving user-friendliness. t Adopted a smooth design with the attachment screws non-visible. Switch type is available in 3 designs (vertical, horizontal, and separate) to allow them to be installed to many different boats with varying console layouts. *1 Based on Suzuki research as of September 2021.

Suzuki Multi-function Gauge

t The software for the color LCD Suzuki Multi-function Gauge, which displays crucial information for driving the boat such as engine rpm and shift position, has been updated to be compatible with the Automatic Trim system and the new Keyless Start System. t Language options for the menu screen has been updated to 14 languages.

I ntroducing the new

Aquila 28 Molokai

he incredible ride, inspired by native Hawaiian watercraft, is born from the rigors of island hopping in the tumultuous waters of the Pacific Ocean, making the Aquila 28 Molokai Power Catamaran perfectly suited for almost any boating condition.

Key Features

The impressive stability and formidable ride along with the large aft and forward cockpits make the Aquila 28 Molokai ideally suited for offshore fishing with family and friends, tournament competition, and even professional charter sportfishing. And, although the Aquila 28 Molokai Power Catamaran is primarily designed as a fishing platform, family-friendly features abound. When not being used for offshore fishing or diving, friends and family can enjoy other waterborne activities, including tow sports, or just relax onboard while visiting a favorite dockside restaurant, sand bar, or island. Lounge on the bow seating area or pull up the bow table and enjoy your favorite beverage at sunset with up to 10+ guests onboard. Because the hulls are spaced wide apart, the broad stance makes it easy to walk around both sides of the center console. The position of the center console provides a 360-degree line of sight with controls strategically positioned for ease of operation. The extra-large console dash is

designed to support two large multifunction displays along with the Mercury® engine monitoring displays and Fusion® sound system head unit. The Molokai is truly a versatile boat that amplifies your boating lifestyle.

Specications Model - Aquila 28 Molokai Length - 9.4m/30.9ft Max Beam - 3m/9.8ft Gross Tonnage - 2.7 Engines - 2x150/200HP Fuel tank – 2 x 285 l Fresh Water Tank - 60 l Simpson Marine has secured a brand-new Aquila 28 available for quick delivery this summer. For more information, please contact thailand@simpsonmarine.com. And please follow Simpson Marine on social media: @SimpsonMarineTL (Facebook) and @SimpsonMarine (Instagram).

Aquila 54 Luxury Power Catamaran

he Aquila 54 had its official launch in autumn of 2021 and we it has just won the prestigious “Power Multihull of the Year 2021” award from Multicoques Magazine, proving again its tremendous potential and popularity among motor yacht enthusiasts.

Key Features

The Aquila 54 Yacht Power Catamaran embodies the reliable features and construction methods of the hundreds of Aquila yachts and boats cruising the waters of the world. This model also enhances on-board luxuries with full size refrigeration and layouts that include 3, 4, and 5 cabin options as well as skipper’s quarters and “galley-down” layouts. Owners will delight in panoramic views that fill the master cabin with natural light through large hull side windows, adding to the spacious feeling of the full-beam forward master cabin. Engineered with an open flybridge and solid glass front windscreen, or a completely enclosed and climate controlled flybridge, the Aquila 54 Yacht Power Catamaran features the versatility to appeal to a global audience of boating enthusiasts.

We are amazed by the full beam master cabin with extensive windows providing a lot of daylight and an amazing dressing room in the starboard hull. We have seen the generous space and comfort aboard the 44 and we are fully confident that the 54 will enjoy similar success. The saloon resting area with two huge sofas including one vast U-shape sofa within the dining table and a smart bar area serving the galley and saloon at the same time eludes a true home-like feeling. First Aquila 54 in Asia has been sold by Simpson Marine to Pattaya and will arrive in April 2022. Aquila has enjoyed great success in Asia since early 2018 when Simpson Marine took on the dealership as the brand’s exclusive representative in the region. Aquila’s appeal to Asian customers is due to a wide range of models with an appealing combination of excellent features. These include expansive living area volumes, good stability, smooth drive, easy handling, sleek modern designs, a strong quality of build, and high finishes along with many innovative features. Currently Aquila catamarans cruise in China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand and the fleet is regularly expanding.

Specications

Model - 54 Length - 16.5m / 54.2ft Draft - 1.4m / 4.4ft Max Beam - 7.6m / 25ft Displacement - 28.9 tons Engines - 2 x D6 380 hp / 2 x D6 430 hp / 2 x D8 600 hp Fuel tank - 2200 l Fresh Water Tank - 1000 l Max Speed - 21 kn (The Simpson Marine Pattaya office has sold Asia's first Aquila 54 and she is slated to arrive some time in Q2 this year) For more information, please contact thailand@simpsonmarine.com. And please follow Simpson Marine on social media: @SimpsonMarineTL (Facebook) and @SimpsonMarine (Instagram).

Hanse 388 & Hanse 418 – Continuing the Evolution

hese progressive Hanse models continue the evolution from their predecessors with enhanced, comfort, ease of sailing and performance integrating innovative design and advanced technology. Both models share similar features, differing only a little due to the extra space available in the higher volume Hanse 418. Life aboard is enhanced by large, elegant glass windows in the companionway area, the high number of opening skylights and the large hull windows that let in lots of light and the uncluttered and rope-free decks and spacious

cockpit layout with glass skylights featuring opening portholes. The Saloon features natural light and the light-coloured concept designs, two hatches plus skylight forward, a lowerable card table that can create a large chaise longue and a Saloon table with pull-out bar compartment. The master cabin at the bow is very light and has large wardrobes and plenty of storage. Spacious guest cabins aft have maximum headroom, plenty of storage, large double bed and lots of natural light. The generously designed bathroom

The Hanse Easy Sailing Concept that enables solo sailing is legendary …… they invented the integrated self-tacking jib

awaits you with a mirror featuring indirect lighting. The Galley has a custom sink, specially created for HANSE yachts, and features quality fittings and plenty of cupboard space. The Hanse cockpits feature comfortable ergonomic folding helmsman seats , twin Y-spoke design wheels, rope storage integrated into the side deck, a cockpit table with fold-down tabletops as well as handrails and footrests, a large bathing platform with teak and integrated bathing ladder, . The Hanse Easy Sailing Concept that enables solo sailing is legendary …… they invented the integrated self-tacking jib. The

Hanse One-Rope Reef, tacking and sail control systems; enable all functions to be performed from the helm. The deck is free of lines and fittings, giving you uncompromising comfort and space while you are at sea or relaxing in the harbor. These yachts set benchmarks in efficient handling and performance…. Velocity Prediction Program results are particularly impressive. Judel/Vrolijk Design form the sail plan using a highly sophisticated calculation model. This guarantees that you have the best sailing characteristics under all conditions, and it ensures your HANSE is one of the fastest yachts in its class.

The Hanse One-Rope Reef, tacking and sail control systems; enable all functions to be performed from the helm. This hull design provides an optimal, long waterline at any heeling angle – and superior speed all round. The Hanse Crossover Sail, available as an option, is a modern sail with the ease-of-use of a Genoa sail and a wide optimum wind range from 65 to 140-degrees. Hanse take pride in the options they offer to enable the new owners to customise their new boats to their own requirements with choices of hull colour, deck, cabin layout, furniture timber, flooring timber, upholstery, covers and an incredible range of equipment.

For information please contact: SEA Yacht Sales – inq@sea-yss.com Thailand: +6681 370 1995

Dimension

LOA Hull length LWL Beam Draft L-keel, medium L-keel, shallow Displacement L-keel, medium app. L-keel, shallow app. Ballast L-keel, medium app. L-keel, shallow app. Sail Area Total app. Mainsail app. Self Tack.Jib app. Crossover app. Engine diesel Standard app. Option app. Fuel tank app. Fresh water app. CE certication

H388

Hanse 415

11.40 m 10.99 m 10.40 m 3.90 m

12.40 m 11.99m 4.17m

2.06 m 1.62 m

2.1m 1.74m

8.27 t 8.66 t

9.8t 10.1t

2.38 t 2.75 t

2.86t 3.20t

72.0m2 43.5m2 28.5m2 61.1m2

87.0 m2 52.5m2 34.5m2 76.9m2

27.30 HP 38.00 HP 160 l 295 l A- 6 / B - 10

39HP 57HP 160l 475l A- 10 Ocean

Boatworks Phuket ticks all the boxes

when it comes to service and repairs

oatworks Phuket opened in 2020 and is located at the former Latitude 8 Workshop site in Chalong along the road up to the Big Buddha. Boatworks provides a wide range of services to its marine customers, including but not limited to marine repairs and restoration, rigging, race boat management, rubber dinghy repairs, and yacht delivery. Boatworks has established partnerships with pedigree marine brands such as All Yacht Spars, Australia and Colligo Marine. General Manager Nick Gutry started his career serving as an apprentice shipwright in New Zealand before moving abroad to Asia. Nick has an extensive history in working with composites, rigging and all manner of marine build and repairs. Locally, he is also the boat manager for the Fugazi Racing team and is actively involved in local cruising and racing activities. Feel free to contact Nick for any enquiries you might have about your boat, dinghy or project! nick@boatworksphuket.com (https://www.facebook.com/boatworksphuket)

F] 1EVMIOI (IVOW

LET US CARRY YOU ]IEVW SJ SJ GEVIJYP GEVIJYP TVITEVEXMSRW 8[S ]IEVW design, re-engineering, 3D modeling ERH GEPGYPEXMSRW VIWYPXIH MR 0PS]H´W 6IKMWXIV (IWMKR %TTVEMWEPW JSV QSWX SJ 7IZIRWXEV =EGLX 8VERWTSV X´W WIE JEWXIRMRK W]WXIQW ±7IZIRWXEV MW XLI ½VWX ERH SRP] ]EGLX XVERWTSVX GSQTER] XS LEZI EGLMIZIH XLMW² WE]W 'ETX 1E\ 7XITERSZ 7IZIRWXEV´W 1EREKIV SJ 3TIVEXMSRW

As we talk to Max and his team, also Sevenstar’s few remaining cradle HIWMKRW EVI MR XLI ½REP WXEKIW SJ FIMRK VIZMI[IH F] 0PS]H´W 6IKMWXIV ;I HMWGYWW [MXL XLI XIEQ [L] XLI] decided to take this route, what is involved in getting it done, how it MR¾YIRGIW HEMP] [SVO ERH [LEX XLI] FIPMIZI MW XLI XIGLRMGEP VSYXI JSV[EVH JSV XLI JYXYVI SJ ]EGLX WLMTTMRK

SAFE

L L O Y D ’ S R E G I S T E R A S S E S S E D SEA FASTENING EQUIPMENT

Sevenstar’s Lloyd’s Register design appraised A-frames in action

THE REASON: WHY “Sevenstar has come a long way since we started moving yachts back and forth in between Northern Europe and the Mediterranean in 1994”, says Jan Maarten Boissevain, the company’s sales director. “The days of the ‘Wild West’ in yacht shipping are certainly over and we have long since become a mature trade. Not only have our routes expanded, we also have significantly developed and improved our processes, procedures and stowage and lifting materials. The requirements have changed too: yachts that we load have become so much larger and yacht designs and building materials have changed significantly. Safety of our cargo, people and environment and establishing trust with our clients have always been at the heart of our operations.

With increasingly powerful modern tools engineering technologies available, it is both desirable and possible to keep improving on our quality. We are convinced that ‘rules of thumb’ no longer do the job and that investing in a more exact engineering approach with proof of compliance with international safety standards, is the way forward to stay ahead of the pack. Capt. Max Stepanov, operational manager and one of the instigators behind the endeavour, agrees. “Thanks to our highly skilled in-house engineering team we were able to pull this off”, he says with a spark of pride in his voice. And rightfully so, the team worked on the project for two years, performed endless calculations and submitted hundreds of detailed drawings to Lloyd’s.

“We are constantly upping our game and so are our clients in the yacht industry”

“Since the whole process is rather costly and a big investment to the company, we needed to build a solid business case before we could go ahead. There were no templates that we could just copy and adapt and getting an in-depth understanding of all applicable Lloyd’s Register rules was a major task by itself. The whole job required stamina from the team and a mindset of not giving up, despite the hundreds of calculation reports to produce and details to monitor. We are lucky to have such excellent engineering skills in house both at Sevenstar and at our sister companies Big Lift and Spliethoff. People with a rich background in marine engineering, naval architecture, cargo handling, 3D modeling, being at sea as Master and even working as surveyor for a class company contributed to the project. Next to the designs themselves, we wrote detailed instructions on how to deploy the systems in our Cargo Security Manual”. Max adds that although improving safety was a key objective, getting the sea fastening designs re-engineered as part of the review process with Lloyd’s Register, also had significant other advantages for the company in terms efficiency improvement. For instance they were able to design cradles and stands that are both lighter and stronger and easier to handle on deck.

THE PROCESS: HOW The team started off with an inventory of existing cradles and stand models for both Sevenstar Yacht Transport and DYT Yacht Transport and researched areas to improve. At the same time an inventory and study of Lloyd’s Register rules applicable was done and a shortlist of sea fastening systems to be re-designed and submitted for assessment to Lloyd’s was created. For every singly piece of equipment, usage and design assumptions, drawings and 3D models were created for a Finite Element Analysis (FEA). Engineers use FEA to simulate the behaviour of a part (or assembly of parts) under given conditions. The Finite Element Method subdivides a large system into smaller, simpler parts that are called finite elements, hence the name. The analysis (conducted through specialised software) uses mathematical models to simulate physical phenomena in order to understand and quantify the effects of real world conditions on the design. The method is used to calculate for instance safe working loads (SWL), as well as to locate potential problems in a design.

LLOYD’S DESIGN APPRAISAL “Receiving Design Appraisal from Lloyd’s Register means that Lloyd’s has independently assessed our sea fastening designs for compliance with their rules and the purpose that the equipment is designed =ouĺ $_bv bm1Ѵ 7;v 7;vb]m -vv lrঞomv om how the systems can be deployed and at which loads”, explains Igor Parpura, engineer and naval architect at Sevenstar. ľ m -77bঞomķ Ѵo 7Ľv !;]bv|;u -Ѵvo b|m;vv;7 -m7 - ;v|;7 |_; =-0ub1-ঞom o= |_; v;- =-v|;mbm] v v|;l lo7;Ѵv bm t ;vঞom -| -m -rruo ;7 ruo7 1ঞom =-1bѴb| ĺĿ omCulbm] |_; "-=; )ouhbm] o-7 Ő") ő bv h; Ĺ |_; 1-r-1b| bm l;|ub1 |omm;v =ou _b1_ equipment has been designed and built.”

Marian Minoiu, engineer and naval architect at Sevenstar, comments: “A major challenge was to incorporate the behaviour of cargo vessels into the equations of the FEA model for the various sea fastening designs. For instance the rolling period of the vessel hugely impacts the acceleration forces on the yachts and thus on the cradling systems. Since cradling systems are used again and again, the calculation also needs to allow for fatigue.” When all designs and models were in place, the information was submitted to Lloyd’s Register, who then assessed the designs again through independent calculations and analysis to confirm the assumptions behind the design and resulting in the final Design Appraisal. “This obviously, was a reiterative process with us going back to the drawing board several times”. “The design appraisal process has now been completed for the majority of our sea fastening systems and the last remaining cradle models are in the final stages of assessment at Lloyd’s”, says Max. When asked about the main challenge during all of this, Igor Purpura answers that this was definitely meeting the total of requirements while partially re-engineering the systems. “Not only Lloyd’s rules applicable for safety, but also our wish to design pieces of equipment that increase

the efficiency of cradling. Equipment that is strong enough, yet lighter for easier handling on deck by the crew (and the divers on DYT’s semi-submersible vessels). Systems that are more versatile for use in many angles and positions, more efficient to lash down and that minimize welding time on deck. Other demands were more standardisation and less need for maintenance, for instance by applying top grade surface protection against the effects of sea water.”

WORKING WITH CRADLES Costa Thuring, who is both a Sevenstar loadmaster and also prepares cradling and lift plans for cargo operations, knows what it takes to work with sea fastening equipment. “A yacht is never the same” says Costa. “Even on production yachts the center of gravity may differ, depending on distribution of ballast like how much fluid is in the tanks, how many batteries and where they are stored.” “Most clients appreciate this, but what they may not realise, is that when we prepare a cradling plan for a yacht, looking at the hull shape, strong points, dimensions and weight of the specific yacht is an important but not sufficient part of the task. We also need to take into account the detailed specifics of the actual vessel that will be carrying the yacht and calculate factors like: what type of other cargo is on board, what is the vessels’ stability (and the expected rolling period), where will the yacht be placed on deck and in what way. All is required for to determining the best cradling plan and lashing setup for that particular yacht.

LLOYD’S REGISTER is a maritime classification society providing quality assurance and certification for ships offshore structures, and shore-based installations. “The more accurate information we have on the yacht and the vessel, the more exact our rules and calculations for safe working loads and deploying cradling systems, and the better our cradles, the better we can prepare and the more quality we can deliver.“ Joost van Niekerk, Sevenstar’s logistics manager in Amsterdam, and Jan Moolman, Sevenstar loadmaster and the warehouse manager in West Palm Bach, both applaud the new approach and agree that for them the main requirements are: a) the standardisation of equipment, b) reduction of maintenance work and c) efficiency of transportation of the materials.

THE WAY FORWARD When asked about the future, Jan Maarten says: “With so many innovations happening in yacht building, our clients’ requirements are developing and standards are being set at much higher levels. Our engineering approach is definitely the way forward”. Max agrees: “We are ready to meet demands, this is only the beginning of an exciting process.”

YOUR CONTACTS

Welcome to contact our Sevenstar Yacht Transport Asia team for Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.

Chris Jongerius chris@sevenstar-asia.com Mob: +66 860 454 634

Marieke Derks marieke@sevenstar-asia.com Mob: +66 862 744 239 Mob: +31 6 3150 4309

Thailand’s boat show story

t’s hard to imagine something as straightforward as a boat show causing endless controversy – but that has been the case almost since Thailand’s first show, Phuket International Marine Expo (PIMEX), held in 2003 at the Phuket Boat Lagoon (PBL). The brainchild of Image Asia managing director, Grenville Fordham, and his business partner Andy Dowden, the idea of a boat show in Phuket initially attracted doubters in droves. “They’ve got no experience” and “It would be risky giving them deposits” were just two of the anti-show cries heard from industry naysayers. But built on the growing dissatisfaction expressed by returning Boat Asia (Singapore) exhibitors, the idea gathered momentum and supporters. Small by international standards and exclusively under canvas onshore, with not a great many boats in the water, Thailand’s first-ever boat show was, nevertheless, hailed as a success by domestic and international exhibitors. The timing was crucial; the following year, industry efforts to reduce taxation on imported boats were wildly successful; the 200+ percent levies previously applied were reduced to just 7% VAT, heralding the real beginning of the exponential growth of Thailand’s (and particularly Phuket’s) leisure yachting industry – and at the same time ensuring that boat shows in Phuket had strong future potential. Thus, PIMEX ran smoothly at PBL, under the Image Asia banner, in December every year until 2006 with an unchanged format, and with gradually increasing numbers, variety and quality of exhibitors. Then, in 2007, ownership

of the show passed to Andy Dowden’s Andaman Marine Consultants (AMC) and it relocated to Royal Phuket Marina (RPM), no longer under canvas. Visitor numbers, however, remained fairly static at somewhere between 3,000 and 4,000, as it became clear that attracting large numbers of overseas visitors to a show in Phuket was, perhaps, a challenge too far. Nevertheless, following international media exposure of PIMEX 2007, the expanding Informa Yacht Group (IYG) acquired ownership of the show, retaining AMC to run things on the ground. PIMEX 2008 went ahead, still in December and still at RPM. Under the IYG umbrella, great new things in terms of marketing were promised – with consequential improvements in quantity and quality of visitors – but with no substantial growth in either, albeit with a glossier, more professional, presentation. Around this time, industry voices clamouring for different dates reached fever pitch and a change from December to January was agreed. With no show in 2009, PIMEX 2010 and 2011 were staged in January with a claimed 25 percent increase in exhibitors, but still finding it difficult to rise above the customary 3,000 to 4,000 visitors. Responding to contrary exhibitor claims that January was not, after all, the best time to run the show, the next four years saw PIMEX swing backwards and forwards between January and March, the organisers doing their best to please everyone. Then, suddenly in or around 2015, Informa decided to exit the boat show business. PIMEX ownership reverted

to AMC and PIMEX 2016 went ahead as usual in January at RPM, but under the looming shadow of a brand new – and competitive – show, the following month. The inaugural Thailand Yacht Show (TYS), held in February 2016 at Phuket’s Ao Po Grand Marina (APGM), was the brainchild of former IYG mover and shaker Andy Treadwell and appeared set to drive PIMEX out of business. For the local industry, however, this was an unwelcome move; it meant either doubling their annual Phuket boat show spend or making a difficult choice between a known entity and the newer, evidently glossier, alternative. The TYS ‘claim to fame’ was massive government support and a key element of its marketing platform focused on the temptingly lucrative superyacht sector. For the first time, the strident industry call, “Does Thailand need another boat show?” resonated around Phuket’s marinas. The prevailing opinion was resoundingly that Phuket, certainly, did not need two boat shows. But it had them. PIMEX 2017 went ahead at RPM in January and was followed again, this time at a more decent interval, by the second TYS in December. Come January 2018, we find Andy Dowden’s AMC teaming up with Olivier and Gael Burlot, organisers of the Singapore Rendezvous, to present the all-new Phuket Rendezvous 2018 at RPM, which looked suspiciously like its predecessor, PIMEX, with a touch more pizzazz. Not to be outdone, TYS 2018 went back to its original killer timing, closely following the Rendezvous in February, again at APGM. Something clearly had to give. Phuket now had three separate entities organising two different boat shows three years in a row, stretching both the budgets and the patience of Phuket’s leading yacht brokers, amongst others. And something was done. An unlikely partnership between Andy Treadwell and the Burlot brothers – who had been doing battle in Singapore with the former’s Singapore Yacht Show and the latter’s Singapore Rendezvous – conceived the Thailand Yacht Show & Rendezvous 2019, held at RPM. This brought to an end the brokers’ nightmare of two competing boat shows on this small holiday island, while almost incidentally bringing to an end Thailand’s original boat show, PIMEX. The harmony, however, was short lived. The following year saw Andy Treadwell, through his new organising company Verventia, win the battle of the boat shows and stage, without visible partners, the TYS 2020 at RPM. Everyone breathed a huge sigh of relief that there was, once again, just one Phuket boat show in the island’s most suitable venue. Then Covid-19 changed everything. TYS 2021 was, unsurprisingly, cancelled along with Verventia’s more mature Singapore Yacht Show. Uncertainty reigned and a boat show void appeared, at least in the understanding of the latest entrant in Phuket’s boat show battles. Believing (based – we understand – on discussions with various involved parties) that TYS was not going to happen again, in mid-2021 David Hayes, CEO of event organisers JAND Group, launched the inaugural Thailand International Boat Show (TIBS), to be held in January 2022 at RPM. Unfortunately for JAND, a combination of Covid uncertainty and the renewed spectre of two Phuket boat shows resulted in the postponement of TIBS until January 2023.

In the meantime, TYS has announced a new partnership with Ocean Marina to run the Thailand Yacht Show – Pattaya in April 2022 and has plans to run the Phuket version of TYS during 2022 on a date and at a venue yet to be confirmed. Taking a step back, during the almost 20 years of boat shows, Phuket has not had things all its own way. Pattaya’s Ocean Marina staged its own boat show – Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show (OMPBS) for eight years from 2012 to 2019, attracting for the most part locally based exhibitors, with some from Phuket and other parts of Thailand adding to the mix. The last OMPBS was held pre-Covid in November 2019. Other tentative forays into Thailand’s troublesome boat show business have included Singapore’s Boat Asia, which staged a one-off ‘Boat Thai’ at a major Bangkok exhibition centre. More recently, a show-within-a-show was staged – ‘Join Boat Platform’ – at Bangkok’s Motor Expo in 2020 and 2021. This new event attracted a sprinkling of trailer boats, water toys and some of the bigger boat brokers, all hoping to tackle successfully the huge, so far untapped, potential of the Thai market for leisure boating. Where to from here? It would take a far more accurate and robust crystal ball than this writer’s to predict Thailand’s boat show future. But if history is anything to go by, it seems that the country’s leisure yachting businesses may face yet another round of ‘too many boat shows’ once the Covid disruptor has passed into relative insignificance. The only consistent and predictable element of every Phuket boat show past, and probably future, is that difficult to budge visitor count. Hail to he or she who can get 10,000 quality visitors through the gate!

About the author Paul Poole is the founder, managing director and chairman of Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co., Ltd., an independent marketing consultancy based in Bangkok, Thailand. The company specialises in commercial sponsorship and partnership marketing, working with both rights holders and brands. Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co., Ltd. has packaged, sold, and managed sponsorship and partnership opportunities for several of Southeast Asia’s leading yachting events, including almost all of the shows named in this story. www.paulpoole.co.th info@paulpoole.co.th

Bay Regatta celebrates quarter century on the water Photography by Simon James

egattas Asia recently staged what few people in this region have done: their third major regatta during the Covid-19 pandemic. Working in conjunction with local authorities and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the 11-boat Bay Regatta, set sail from Royal Phuket Marina. The early morning tide saw eleven sailboats leave from The Royal Phuket Marina, through the newly dredged marina channel, Heading out to Koh Rang Yai, to join the event’s largest yacht, Hans Rahmann's 76ft Yasooda and start their adventure, on a four-day nautical journey. Traditional held just before the Chinese Lunar New Year. The Bay Regatta is a series of passage races and stop-over social events – an event format that catches the attention of the region's

best sailors as they compete in two groups, Multihulls and Monohulls. With a wide range of boat designs and sailing experience, each group has two opportunities to achieve the coveted daily awards. Prizes are awarded on a racing handicap and a performance-based system. All boats, including those in "cruising mode" have an equal chance of winning a prize. Starting in Sapam Bay on Phuket's east coast, after registration and an opening party yesterday evening at The Royal Phuket Marina, the yachts headed south to comply with the current COVID-19 regulations for the Phang Nga National Park. The 25-mile course set off from Koh Rang Yai, passing Koh Lipi to starboard and rounding Koh Yao Yai to the south, before

heading north, passing Hin Mu Sang Mu Nua and finishing near the Koh Yao Noi Channel. The racing commenced at 09:00 with two starts. First off were the monohull (four boats) followed by the multihulls (seven boats). The leading boats at the first turning point (Koh Lipi) were Yasooda for the Monohulls and Bonza 69 slam in the Multihulls closely followed by the fleet of locally-built Stealth designs. Warwick Downes’ Bonza 69 slam, took line honours on the first day and the Multihull Racing handicap prize finishing 1st in 3 hours 10 mins in dying breeze followed by Zero, Saffron and Twister. In the performance division, results were taken back to the gate when Lady Mia was unable to make the absolute- time limit. The revised results saw Bonza 69 Slam in first place, followed by Dan Fiddock’s Saffron in second and Zero in third. In

the battle of the "Ricks" (Fielding and Delaney) first blood went to Mojo coming in 5th with Lady Mia hard on their heels. Handicps will now be recalculated for tomorrows Performance race. While charter entries were decimated by the suspension of the Test & Go arrival scheme, results for the remaining four-boat monohull Class – saw line honours going to Yasooda with the racing division results after handicap of Phoenix finishing on top, 4 mins in-front of Megazip on corrected time followed Jessandra II, with Yasooda coming in to win the Performance division beating Phoenix and Megazip by 10 and 14 minutes on corrected time. With prizes presented by the Really Good Deli, yesterday's racing finished with a great evening at Baan Chang, which, opened especially for the event.

The Bay Regatta - All ahead to Krabi

The second day was Octopus Marine Race Day, with competitors experiencing a wide range of wind strengths and constantly changing directions, as the party that sails around continue to journey from Koh Yao, through the Koh Hong Group and on to Krabi. Most boats decided to leave the Koh Yao anchorage early in anticipation of early fading winds. With the majority ready to race, World Sailing International Race Officer Simon James announced an early start to proceedings. First off were the multihulls, with Bonza 69 Slam leading the way, followed by the three stealth designs and the "battle of the Ricks". For the second day, Lady Mia had the better of Mojo in the starting area. With the remaining boat, Megazip arriving to join the start, the sequence commenced for the monohulls with Hans Rahmann’s 76ft Yasooda keeping everyone on their toes with a Port Tack Start at the Pin end. The fleet left from the east of Koh Yao Noi, with competitors battling the south going current and a decreasing breeze. After about one hour, the wind started to fill in as the fleet entered the most picturesque part of the course, with Bonza leading the way, rounding Koh Pang twelve minutes of the leading

Monohull Yasooda and followed by multihulls Saffron, Zero and Twister II. All boats passed the "mushroom-shaped" rock of Koh Pak Bia and Koh Ka before turning south and passing through the gate at Koh Kaya. At this point, the classes split with the multihulls rounding Koh Ngang before passing the Royal Palace between Koh Deng and Koh Samet before heading to finish between the committee boat and Koh Ya Man. In the Multihull Division, Bonza received line honours at 13:57. However, after handicaps were applied, first place went to Dan Fidock's Saffron, followed by Glywn Rowland's Twister II in second and John Spencer's Zero in Third, with Bonza down to fourth place on corrected time after a frustrating beat Koh Ngang. In the multihull performance division, results were again taken back to the gate, with Bonza this time coming out on top, followed by Saffron and Twister. In the continuing "Battle of the Ricks", Mojo avenged his second starting defeat by beating Lady Mia by seven minutes on corrected time. The Monohulls followed the slightly shorter 18nm course following much of the same route as the multihulls, except the boats missed out Koh Ngang. Hans Rahmann's Yasooda lead the way, finishing just before the leading Multihull. When IRC handicaps were applied, Nils

Dgenkole's Phoenix again placed first, ahead of Alesandr Trofimenko's Megazip and Andrew McDermott's Jessandra II in third place. Phoenix and Megazip retained first and second places in the Monohull Performance division, with Hans Rahmann's Yasooda taking third place. The evening was a free night for crews to relax and sample the delights of Ao Nang and Railay Beach.

Light Winds for Day 3 of the Bay Regatta

Day three was the traditional Vacation Village - Krabi Island Races. Boats were held ashore, with light winds forecast in the morning until some wind appeared on the horizon. After several yachts reported breeze of 7+ knots around the racetrack, competitors were called out to the start boat and the line was set for course No.4 chosen as it has plenty of shortening opportunities, should the wind not play fair. With the breeze lightening, but an increase forecast. The team from Vacation Village, our host sponsor, started proceedings with the Multihulls first away, followed by the monohulls, who had to weave their way through the late starters to get across the line. A new wind line appeared from the South West earlier than expected, with spinna-

kers appearing from some back markers as the wind filled in from behind. While some boats we stationery at times, others charged towards the shore with full spinnakers flying. With some boats 2/3 of the way to Ko Ya Man, the localised breeze left the famous Chicken Island (Ko Poda) sitting in the middle of a Glass like sea. The light Southwesterly breeze now coming down the course was directly from the original start position. The race committee displayed the "R" flag, meaning that all future marks of the course are deleted and boats should round the current island and race directly back to the start area, giving boat a 1.4 miles beat to the finish. Bonza again lead the way, crossing the new finish line after a frustrating 1 hour 15 mins closely followed by Saffron, Twister and Zero. After OMR Ratings were applied, Glywn Rowlands Twister II came out on top, celebrating their first regatta win closely followed by Dan Fidock's Saffron and John Spencers Zero. In the Multihull Performance division, Lady Mia and Mojo had a slow start, crossing the line with the Monohull class. However, with the wind following them around the course and their generous handicaps,( based on the past two days performances). Both

Light winds remain as eet return to Phuket

crossed the finishing line, with Mojo finishing victorious by 27 seconds over Lady Mia in second place followed by Twister II in third. As Mojo's owner Rick Fielding always tells us: "The cream will always rise to the top!" In the Monohull Racing Division, it was business as usual with Phoenix finishing infront of Megazip, closely followed by Jessandra II finishing just 15 seconds behind on corrected time. In the performance monohull class, the winds were too light for the 76 foot Yasooda to stretch her legs to cancel out the rating difference over an hours race. Phoenix again came out on top, but with Jessandra II in second and Megazip in third. After waiting for the forecast 12 knots of wind, all boats were sent home to prepare for tonight's prize giving at the Vacation Village, Phra Nang Inn. Tonights generous buffet is supplemented with genuine Aussie Beef products provided by Dan Fidock's Really Good Deli.

After checking weather predictions and receiving reports from around the race-course. The fourth and final day of the Bay Regatta started with a combined start for all competitors on the Coca Cola Haad Thip Race Day, for their long race back to Ao Chalong. Based on the conditions, for the first time in many years a direct line course was set, rather than the traditional circuit of the Koh Dam Group. Some yachts, including Bonza and Yasooda, decided the best approach was to head North towards the Royal Palace where the wind traditionally fill-in. Others, including Mojo and Saffron headed south, looking for thermals from "Chicken Island" before heading west towards the Hin Mu Sang Nua gate. In this race, where traditionally the start boat has to race at full speed to get to Ao Chalong before the first finisher, winds remained light throughout. Warwick Downes' Bonza 69 Slam were first to see the shortened course flag at the Hin Mu Sang Nua "gate" after 5 hours 13 mins in the sun, closely followed by Dan Fiddock's Saffron. Fifteen minutes later, Hans Rahmann's Yasooda lead the Monohulls to the shortened course, closely shadowed by Nils Degenkole's Phoenix. When handicaps were applied, the yachts who sailed south at the start came out on top. Phoenix headed the monohull classes, closely followed by Jessandra II and Megazip. Dan Fiddock's Saffron came out on top in the Multihull Racing Class, closely followed by Glywn Rowlands' Twister 2 and John Spencer's Zero. This result produced another 1-2-3 for the locally built Stealth design boats from Asia Catamarans. Despite again missing out in the "Battle of the Ricks" on the start line and receiving a significant handicap increase (after his victory yesterday), Rick Fielding's Mojo pulled out another win in the Performance Multihull Class, with Saffron coming in second and Twister 2 in third place. Amazingly, Mojo would have beaten the whole "Multihull Racing" fleet as his OMR equivalent rating would have been the highest for a Fusion 40 in the world this year. We will no doubt hear about this for many years to come… and at the final presentations at Kan Eang II in Ao Chalong.

AQUILA 70 – King of the Power Catamaran

orgeous lines, perfectly balanced, intelligent luxury. These are just a few ways to describe the new flagship, Aquila 70 Luxury Power Catamaran. This breathtaking and powerful catamaran is like nothing you have ever stepped aboard. With an aesthetically pleasing design at every angle, the Aquila 70 looks like the stunning luxury yacht that it is.

Key Features

Power and maneuverability come from the Volvo Penta inboards coupled with joystick control. Carbon fiber reinforcements keep the weight down while adding to the yacht’s strength. The high bridge-deck clearance allows for even more comfort underway and improved speeds. At 21-metres, the Aquila 70 boasts generous spaces and is engineered for comfort and range. Featuring design work by multihull design experts Morelli & Melvin Design Studio, she is the perfect combination of intelligent luxury design and breath-taking innovations. She can deliver high speeds worthy of a performance oriented motoryacht, with top speeds of 27 knots. An impressive vessel with multiple features and utilities, she has state-of-the-art amenities on board and fantastic outdoor socialising areas including the signature cockpit open bar. For your relaxation and entertainment needs, the Aquila 70 was designed with European flair making it bright, inviting, and welcoming including a 27’ wide master suite. Versatile interior layouts, along with rich wood finishes, soft fabrics, smart appliances, designer furnishings, incredible headroom, and panoramic windows make your experience onboard even better. Outdoor areas receive just as much attention. Aquila’s signature stairs make it easy to access the foredeck from the flybridge, which can be fully open or enclosed with A/C and a wide Portuguese bridge for easy access from aft to bow. If you prefer, spend your time hanging out aft, with its comfortable plush seating, huge beach area, a deep swim ladder and excellent dinghy launching. Headquartered in Clearwater, Florida, Aquila Power Catamarans is backed by a team of experts from Sino Eagle Group –¬ a development, design and world leading manufacturer. This partnership with Sino Eagle Group has been instrumental in assuring high-quality parts built with consistent finishes and the enhancement of the uncompromising design seen every Aquila yacht. With approximately 65% of the materials used in the manufacturing of an Aquila being purchased from highly recognised marine OEM

suppliers in the United States and Europe and shipped to Sino Eagle facility for installation, the company’s advanced composite manufacturing capabilities have ensured owners and partners have the highest standards of building work undertaken on every Aqulia build. Aquila’s International Sales Director Yvan Emieu expands on the build process, saying: “From day one of building Aquila, we set ourselves apart by having the highest quality control possible. This started with the production facility and fiberglass building techniques using resin infusion in humidity and temperature-controlled lamination bays”.

Specications

Model - 70 Length - 21.3m / 69.8ft Draft - (m/ft) 1.45m / 4.9ft Max Beam - (m/ft) 8.2m / 26.9ft Displacement - (tons) 50 tons Engines - 2X 800 hp / 2X 1000 hp Fuel tank - 5480 l Fresh Water Tank - 1560 l Max Speed - 26 kn Simpson Marine has sold Asia's first Aquila 70 luxury catamaran, and it will arrive in Indonesia this summer. For more information, please contact thailand@ simpsonmarine.com. And please follow Simpson Marine on social media: @SimpsonMarineTL (Facebook) and @SimpsonMarine (Instagram).

Beneteau, MICAD & Nauta combine expertise on

Grand Trawler 62

he Grand Trawler 62 is the result of Beneteau’s collaboration with Massimo Gino (Nauta Design) and Amedeo Migali (MICAD) and capitalizes on the highly successful Swift Trawler range of practical, spacious boats, with a considerable cruising range, putting Groupe Beneteau’s experience in producing luxury boats to good use.

Exterior Design

The Grand Trawler 62 has a distinctive displacement hull, developed by MICAD with the aim of improving its efficiency & cruising range, making it easier for owners to cast off on long-distance cruises. She is 18.95 meters long (62’) and has a hull beam of over 5 meters (16’5”). Designed for 6 to 8 people on board (+ crew), the boat has an impressive flybridge – one of the biggest on the market.

Interior Design

The interior spaces are spacious and well-appointed. The galley can be completely enclosed. The VIP guest cabin in the bow has a considerable amount of headroom. Strikingly spacious inside, with volumes similar to much bigger yachts, and ingeniously designed, these large passagemakers also have enough space to comfortably house a crew. A satin wax finished wood, leather and elegant textiles make for a stylish interior and exterior, carefully designed by the experts at Nauta Design. The midship owner’s suite, makes clever use of the maximum beam, so that you really feel like you are staying in a hotel suite.

Specications

Model - Grand Trawler 62 Length - 19m / 62ft Max Beam - 5.4 m / 17.7ft Displacement - 28 tons Engines - 2x 730HP Fuel tank - 2 x 2000L l Fresh Water Tank - 840 l Simpson Marine has secured a brand new Grand Trawler 62 for Asia. For more information, please contact thailand@simpsonmarine. com. And please follow Simpson Marine on social media: @SimpsonMarineTL (Facebook) and @ SimpsonMarine (Instagram).

CSG

leads the way with environmentally -

friendly marine building materials

C kanon.

omposite Solutions Group (CSG) is a consulting and business development firm run by founder & CEO Mr. Satja Chayang-

CSG’s composite sandwich constructions are light, strong and sustainable. While many local builders in Asia are still using Inexpensive local PU, EPS or PS foams, just spending a bit more for closed cells PET or PVC will provide you a long-term cost savings in resin absorption, lamination and labor time. Using non-structural foam will always cost you more in the long run. CSG is a one-stop network for business support & development. It has partners in the marine, aerospace, transportation, renewable energy, architecture and sporting equipment fields. It can provide all of the following: • COSTING & PROJECT SUPPORT • MANUFACTURING FACILITIES • DESIGN & ENGINEERING SUPPORT • PRODUCTS & EQUIPMENT • RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT Composite Solutions Group Represent Armacell 100% PET foams range from 10mm to 300mm (also depending on densities). The company also carries limited Armacell PET foil for special applications, ranging from 1.5-3mm thick. One sheet of 15-20mm foam is around 120+ plastic bottles that are not floating in our oceans, lakes, rivers, streets and landfills. Since its introduction to South East Asia, Armacell PET foil is being used in multiple applications, including water sports, aerospace & the transportation industries. CSG customizes panels for exterior and interior construction. With foam backing, builders and end-users do not need to worry about the composite wood panels

warping or bending like traditional materials in the humid Asian environment. This means no more wood boring insects and Armacell panels/ foam have special thermo, fire and acoustic properties. The panels are stronger, and 35-40% lighter than traditional material like plywood and they will not rot. CSG panels are made of 100% recycled PET foam (Armacell), along with bio resin from Bio Entropy and natural fibers if requested. There is no MOQ for local orders/stock that’s available! We can all do more to reduce our carbon footprint. Please contact Satja at satjachay@ gmail.com (http://www.compositesg.com) to find out he and his company can help you do that. But remember to follow the naval architect’s designs to the tee to obtain the optimal performance from these eco-friendly materials.

Some happy CSG customers In Thailand, Khun Satja cites Sorakrit “Billy” Krittiemmek of Honda Marine and naval architect Somyos Hamali, who are doing their best to use eco-friendly materials wherever possible for the local market and looking into expanding into other parts of South East Asia (http://www.npskmarine.co.th/).

One of CSG’s strategic partners is TRIAC Composites, who is always thinking outside the box. The company’s DNA originates in the marine industry; but soon after moving to Vietnam the company diversified into the transport, architecture, and the oil & gas industries (https://www.triaccomposites. com/post/danish-newspaper-reports-on-triac-ferries). Mr. Tho and his team at Haiphongbased at Century not only take care of their customers, but also supply the Vietnamese Navy with fast patrols boats. Century was one of the first companies in North Vietnam to apply the vacuum infusion process and is now using Armacell eco-friendly core materials (http://www.thtcentury.com/about.html). Floeth Yachts made a boat from Armacell (100% recycled PET high density foam). And Floeth’s 55' speed cats are constructed with both high-density PVC and PET. These boats are being operated in Phuket. These boats will NOT break or burn like many local builds. They are being operated in heavy conditions. While most boats are docked, these speed cats are out jumping the big surf (https:// floethyachts.com/) New partners in Asia that have taken advantage of the Armacell PET, include Scott Bradley at East Marine Asia, Transmarine Fiberglass, Silver Star, Seaman Marine and Nice Composites.

East Marine Asia meets all your anti-fouling needs

ntifouling, it’s a very important product when it comes to taking care of your boat, but it can have a harmful and deadly effect on sea life. Ian Lok, East Marine Asia’s Sales Manager, says that while people are much more aware of the rubbish they throw in the sea these days antifouling is one of the most toxic substances we put in our oceans and by using improperly mixed antifouling many people in the marine industry are causing more damage to the oceans than they know. As Ian says, any solution designed to remove barnacles from your hull is going to have a toxic make-up. And the main catalyst in early anti-fouling mixtures was Tributyltin “TBT” a toxic biocide that was extremely effective at cleaning hulls but toxic

to the environment and has now been banned. For background, Wikipedia states, “Tributyltin (TBT) is an umbrella term for a class of organotin compounds which contain the (C4H9)3 Sn group, with a prominent example being tributyltin oxide. For 40 years TBT was used as a biocide in anti-fouling paint, commonly known as bottom paint, applied to the hulls of ocean going vessels. Bottom paint improves ship performance and durability as it reduces the rate of biofouling (the growth of organisms on the ship's hull). The TBT slowly leaches out into the marine environment where it is highly toxic toward nontarget organisms. TBT is also an obesogen. After it led to collapse of local populations of organisms, TBT was banned.”

There are still shops today that buy and sell TBT as a chemical compound to add to anti-fouling paint. But not only will this foul the environment, if you screw up the mixing ratio, the paint will not adhere to the hull properly. Be very careful of shady contractors that offer you a great price on antifouling. Yacht-based antifouling tends to be more environmentally-friendly than commercial antifouling, which is designed for offshore ships, ferries and craft that are mainly used offshore with constant medium to high speed. Commercial antifouling is generally a much cheaper coating due to the chemical costs used to produce the product. Yacht antifoulings are more self polishing and softer. This allows better growth control while not moving, and while underway. As most yachts spend more time stationary on moorings, marinas and hardstands, International yacht antifouling uses ) Biolux® technology in a variety of their antifouling to give the highest performance with the environment in mind. With antifouling itself, there are two kinds: hard and eroding as described by International Yacht Paint (AkzoNobel) below: Hard antifoulings work by releasing biocide from the surface of the coating to deter fouling organisms. Hard antifoulings don’t really wear, but abrasive material in the water such as silt and sand may lead to a very minor reduction in

the film build. Biocide leaching rate reduces over the lifetime of the product. After a few seasons, there may be a residual build-up of product that needs to be removed. If you have a fast boat, or a fast boat that is used very regularly, then hard antifouling is usually the best product to choose. Boats moored in fresh water normally use these types as eroding antifoulings are designed to erode in salt water and may not erode sufficiently in fresh water. For those who like to race, hard products are a good option as they can be burnished or wet sanded to a smooth finish prior to racing. Within this group there is type that contains a fluoro micro-additive to help provide a smoother faster film than a standard hard type might otherwise provide. This is favoured by keen racing types who place more importance on keeping their hulls smooth and clean rather than its antifouling performance. Eroding antifoulings, also known as soft or ablative antifoulings, also work by releasing fouling conditions. Eroding antifoulings are great for those who prefer a low maintenance option, as generally speaking there is far less accumulation of old paint on the hull after each season. However, a slow build up can still occur if excessive paint is applied at each application. This will eventually need to be removed as it may become unstable and lead to problems when new antifouling is applied.

Ian says East Marine Asia carries a full range of International Paint products including the newly introduced Micron AP, the most advanced performance antifouling designed for difficult fouling in all environments. It uses Biolux® technology, a slower polishing rate combined with a boosted biocide level. The company also has Micron Extra 2 on offer, a high strength polishing antifouling that provides 2 seasons protection from just one application (3-4 coats). Formulated with Biolux® Technology for controlled optimized biocide release, it again delivers extra protection in difficult fouling conditions. Ultra 2 antifouling is a premium hard burnishable antifouling for protection in the high fouling conditions. Ideal for fast powerboats and competitive sailing, it uses Biolux® Technology to block slime and algae growth. Then there’s Micron One, a general purpose, high strength, cuprous oxide based antifouling. It’s quick drying and can be used on fiberglass, wood and primed underwater metals, but not on aluminium. Trilux 33 antifouling is a tin-free antifouling specifically formulated with Biolux Technology, to give highly effective antifouling protection in all waters. The slow

polishing formula is suitable for use on aluminium craft, outdrives and outboards and any substrate where bright colours or a bright white antifouling is required. Boat Guard Extra Antifouling is a high strength ablative cuprous oxide antifouling which prevents minimal build up due to self-polishing technology. This is for application to hulls below the waterline after suitable priming to help prevent marine growth. Not suitable for high speed craft which are used frequently. Not suitable for stern drive units and/or props and shafts. Last but not least the company sells VC Offshore, a high strength antifouling suitable for all difficult fouling conditions for both power and sailboats. It is quick drying to a smooth, hard film which is easy to clean and provides excellent scrubability. Scott Bradley, Ian and all the kind and friendly staff at East Marine Asia will be glad to work with you to select the best antifouling paint for your boat and the environment. They will tell you how much antifouling you need, based on the volume of your boat’s hull, and how to best apply it so you are not wasting ether the product or your money (www.eastmarineasia.com).

More on the TBT ban Bans on TBT on boats less than 25 metres long first started in the 1980s. In 1990, the Marine Environment Protection Committee adopted Resolution MEPC 46(30), which recommended that the Government eliminate the use of TBT-containing antifouling paints on smaller vessels. This resolution was intended to be a temporary restriction until the International Maritime Organization could implement a ban of TBT anti-fouling agents for ships. Several countries followed, and in 1997 Japan banned the production of TBT-based anti-fouling paints. In 2008 organotin compounds acting as biocide like TBT compounds were banned in anti-fouling paint and included in the Rotterdam Convention and have been banned by the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-fouling Systems on Ships of the International Maritime Organization. It states that ships cannot bear organotin compounds on their hulls or external parts or surfaces, unless there is a coating that forms a barrier so that organotin compounds cannot leach out to reduce exposure by allowing recovery to occur (Source: Wikipedia).

Twin Sharks captures top honours at the

Jai-Dee Regatta Photography by Scott Murray

f you wanted some reassurance that Phuket was starting to wind its way back from the COVID doldrums you just had to be on hand for the hooting, hollering and good times to be had at the recent Jai-Dee (meaning kind-hearted in Thai) Regatta organized by the Phuket Yacht Club (PYC). The PYC has proved to be a beacon of light and hope for local sailors during the global pandemic as it is now staging the third annual Jai-Dee Regatta and the sixth major sailing event since the pandemic started. This was the first regatta under new PYC Commodore Peter Dyer and Regatta Organizer Warwick Downes as Scott Duncanson is now the club’s Vice

Commodore and will be focused on growing the club’s junior sailing program. The idea for this regatta and the Club’s Sailor’s Regatta in March was to hold an affordable no frills regattas, no goody bags or T-shirts and just one final party on the last night, making it affordable for all to compete. And it was originally seen as a feeder race for the Phuket King’s Cup, which unfortunately has not been held since 2019. The wind gods were a little more agreeable on the final day of the regatta allowing PRO Simon James to get in a circumnavigation of Ao Chalong taking racers out pass the safe water mark and back again.

John Newnham’s Twin Sharks did it again; the experienced crew won three of seven races to capture the coveted Multihull Class. John Spencer’s Zero (formerly Phantom 5) came second in the class with Hans Rahmann’s Voodoo finishing third, Dan Fidock’s Fugazi fourth, George Eddings’ Blue Noze in fifth, John Coffin’s Fez in sixth, Glywn Rowlands Twister 2 in seventh with Bill Kane’s The Sting rounding out the eight-boat Multihull class. The four-boat Multi Racing Division was also won by Twin Sharks, followed by friendly rival Voodoo, Blue Noze and Fugazi, though Fugazi captured line honours race after race. Unfortunately, Fugazi’s owner Dan Fidock had business matters to attend and couldn’t participate in the regatta. The Multi Cruising division class saw Alan Carwardine’s three Stealth battle it out with John Spencer’s Zero taking top spot, followed by John Coffin’s Fez and Glywn Rowlands Twister 2, Bill Kane’s The Sting (the only non Stealth) took fourth place in this division. Glywn by the way was a former Emirates pilot who learned to fly with the Royal Air Force. The three-boat Monohull IRC class saw a heartbreaker for Andrew McDermott’s Jessandra II who lost the day’s first race, a two-hour jaunt around Ao Chalong by fourteen seconds to rival Niels Degenkolw’s Phoenix. Torben Kristensen’s Kinnon (with PYV Commodore Peter Dyer on board) came third in the class. The Jessandra II crew has come so far in such a short period of time and it was terrific to see them do so well on the water. The five-boat Monohull PHS division saw positions one through three repeated (Phoenix, Jessandra II & Kinnon ) with Kirill Stasthevsky’s Russian crew on Andaman Discovery coming in fourth and Martyn Henman’s Second Nature in fifth. Martyn, by the way, is the fellow responsible for the nice new look of the Phuket Yacht Club website. Mike Downard’s crew on Dragon took the threeboat Sail-in-Asia Platu class. Jon Oeygard’s Tiger came second as its two DNSs on day one hurt cost it a shot at the class title. Dan Evilsiser’s Wolf finished third in the class. The Cholomark Boat Company was kind enough to donate a Highfield tender to the regatta. The PYC committee decided to auction it off at the prize-giving ceremony and auctioneer Andrew McDermott spun some magic getting John Spencer to pay Bt92,000 for it – money that will come in very handy for the club. The three days on the water were enjoyed by all; the Phuket Yacht Club and regatta organizer Warwick Downes did a great job of putting the regatta together and the last thing on anyone’s mind was the new Omicron variant. And a big thank you to John Newnham for donating the photography boat and Mark Bierne, a retired firefighter from Washington state, for navigating it. The Phuket Yacht Club is a non-profit organization that has been operating in Chalong Bay for over 25 years. Affiliated with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand (YRAT) and the International Sailing Schools Association (ISSA) the club hosts regular club racing for keel boats and Multihulls, three annual regattas and a very successful inshore sailing school for both youth and adults.

History of the Firey

One Design By Bob Mott

King Cup Firey Start 2008 (Mia Gillow).

he first Firefly 850 was designed for John Stricklan in 1994 and launched in 1995 as Hot Vindaloo winning its first regatta the Laguna Keys Regatta that year. Now she is owned by Mark Leitner called Leitning Storm and 2021 won Airlie Beach Race Week. There are a total of three Fireflies in Australia as this article goes to print.

King Cup 2008 Mamba 2 (Mia Gillow).

King Cup 2008 Moto Inzi (Mia Gillow).

Mark Pescott’s builds really kicked off in Phuket when Mark formed a JV relationship with Latitude 8 and Mark Horwood in their beach side building sheds in Rawai. The first Pescott cats to be built there were the 10.6m open cockpit Summerhaven designs Chimera, Cerberus and the Charro. Later a Whithaven design was built. The last of the larger Pescott cats built was Seekronghuk (an open bridgedeck model) which translates to “broken ribs” in Thai (the al went into charter use under Latitude 8 ownership and management). The first four built were from local timber using the strip plank method also using Corecell foam. Seekronghuk was the first to be built with Western Red Cedar, ATL epoxy, DIAB foam with carbon fibre reinforcements. The location was idea for these ultra shallow draft cats given that the water virtually lapped the workshop doors at high tides. In fact on a particular day, December 26, 2004 when the tsunami hit the surge lifted a 40ft container and floated it out of the shed onto the road. Lucky it went that was and didn’t float out to sea. The clean-up required pressure washers, cranes, trucks and all hands on deck. They were back operating in about seven days. In between charters they raced in regional regattas including The King’s Cup, Phuket Raceweek, the Bay Regatta Phuket in Thailand and Langkawi Regatta in Malaysia. The Fireflies could go further afield as

they were demountable and could be trailered. They raced successfully at Phuket King’s Cup as a class since 2006 and maintained a class till present, sometimes with up to nine racing. They were trailered to Top of the Gulf Pattaya and Koh Samui Regattas and sailed 140nm on their bottoms to Langkawi for the Royal Langkawi International Regatta. The first of the Phuket Fireflies Voodoo Child started taking shape with Mark Pescott hands on building with Latitude 8 Thai staff. The location was idea for these ultra shallow draft cats given that the water virtually lapped the doors at high tides. All the Fireflies are Western Red Cedar strip plank, Divinycell foam and epoxy. Tight racing, some thrills and spills that you would expect by a sporty cat of this design. They have participated in all Thailand regattas and ventured to Langkawi for the Royal Langkawi International Regatta. Racing is always close and competitive sometimes to close and competitive. They are a keen lot the Phuket Firefly clan. A mixture of nationalities: Australian, Dutch, British, French, Swiss, German. In fact, a Phuket Flying Circus would be a good analogy. Flying a hull is standard practice, the odd bump not unusual, sometimes a collision, once in a while an ass over teakettle capsize. They try that hard that one of the skippers lost part of his finger in the in the last race of a Langkawi Regatta even though he had clearly won his class in the race before. They certainly are exciting to be racing in, or to watch. Currently, when this article goes to press Mamba will be re-launched after a full refit and refurbish in time to race in the Phuket Yacht Club Sailor’s Regatta in March. Mamba will be adorned with her original paint scheme she is bound to be an eye catcher! Mamba has benefited from some tender care from Nick Gutry and Boatworks Phuket in Chalong. Mamba was completely re-sprayed, her beams resurfaced, and major repairs were made to a number of fittings and the rudders were upgraded to a more modern set up like on Twin Sharks and Voodoo. Boatworks Phuket is based in Chalong at the old site of Latitude 8. Repair and optimization work is always ongoing with a full 11m carbon centre hull for a trimaran build about to be started and conversion of an AC45F to soft sails slated for later in the year. Never a dull moment – you can contact Nick on 0615 705 262, nick@boatworksphuket.com. Once Mamba is sorted they are looking at bringing Pagatoon back to the fleet and refitting her as well. Presently Pagatoon is sitting in Koh Phangan on Thailand’s Gulf Coast. Some of these cats are available for charter and or purchase for upcoming regattas

King Cup 2008 Voodoo 1 (Mia Gillow).

in Multihull Regatta and Phuket Raceweek in July. (In 1995, Mark Pescott, who designed the Fireflies participated with his cat SummerSalt in the Arung Sumudra Rally which celebrated 50 years of Indonesian independence: a great event to compete in. Bob Mott, the author of this piece, was competing with Lizard of Oz, a Peter Kerr 43ft alloy catamaran. The start was off Benoa Harbour Bali and the finish was in the Sea of Jakarta with an Indonesian navy ship as the finish boat. All the regular-sized yachts docked in Ancol Marina with the tall ships participants docking in Tanjung Priok. Everything was free, cruising permits, visas, tours, food, docking, power, water and diesel. From there the fleet divided and a number headed up the Malacca Straits stopping on the way in Singapore and Malaysia with the final destination being Phuket. Bob, along with an alloy 42 Fitzgibben cat called Amadeus, took the unorthodox course through the Sunda Straits to Anak Krakatoa inside the old Krakatoa crater and up the west coast of Sumatra stopping at all the offshore islands on the way.)

Mark's Fireies in action (Scott Murray).

Twin Sharks competing (Scott Murray).

Fireﬂys – Fast Facts (In order of launching)

Voodoo Child

Twin Sharks

Launched July 2005 for Olaf Reese, did Phuket Raceweek before going to Pattaya. Sold to David Hill in Koh Samui in 2006; then sold to Hans Rahmann in 2008 as Voodoo.

Launched 3rd Dec in 2006, for Bill Phelps the day before the King’s Cup. Finished 2nd in the first KC Firefly class 2006; sold to John Newnham in 2013.

Firey Twin Sharks

Firey Voodoo Child

Moto Inzi

Firey Moto Inzi

The Frog

Launched 2nd Dec 2005, for Roger Kingdon, two days before King’s Cup, winning the KC 2005 on OMR. Taken over by Jonathon Kingdon around 2015; sold to Marc Chapus in early 2019. Firey frog

Mamba

Launched in April 2006 for Damien Kimball; 2007 sold to Henry Kaye. Various owners and charterers including Neil Ayre; now owned by Dan Fiddock.

Pagatoon

Launched in May of 2007, for Pierre Forsans trailered to Samui. Did come back to Phuket for a KC.

Firey Mamba

Chi Machine

Firey Chi Machine

Launched in October of 2006 for Andrew Marshall: sold and shipped to Egypt in 2012. Firey Pink lady

Firey Pagatoon

Launched in July 2006 for Marc Cudenac. Sponsored by Club Med. Won first KC Firefly class 2006 with French guru skippering. Then sold to Peter Dyer, various names including SEA Properties. Bought by Ray Waldron in 2017 and renamed Surf Patrol.

Pink Lady

Launched in February of 2007 and sailed straight to Malaysia for the Langkawi Regatta, taken straight off launch trailer to Langkawi, into 20 knot winds stopping at Koh Lanta. Chartered and sailed by Chris Jongurius, probably the most sailed Firefly: chartered by Japanese crew Mill Grace for many regattas.

Bluenose

Launched in November of 2008 for Damien Kimball; sold to George Eddings in 2015 (All the above were built by Latitude 8 Yachts).

Summersalt

Ballerina

Built and launched by Peter Taylor in 2018.

The 2006 King’s Cup saw the rst Firey 850 One Design class with six entrants The class has been a part of all KC regattas since. There have been up to eight entrants.

In 2007, four Fireys sailed to Langkawi for the Royal International Langkawi Regatta

Mamba, Moto Inzi, Twin Sharks and The Frog.

In 2007, there were six Fireys in the Samui Regatta, all trailered there.

Mamba, Henry Kaye; Moto Inzi, Roger K; Pink Lady, Andrew Marshall; Pagatoon, Pierre Forsans; The Frog, Chris Jongurius; Voodoo Child, David Hill (Winner).

In 2008, there were three Fireys who sailed in the RLIR Mamba, Moto Inzi and Twin Sharks.

Firey of the Year award

Since the first regatta for the Firefly 850 One Design class in the 2006 Phuket King;s Cup Regatta, the Firefly of the Year has been awarded to the Firefly 850 OD that scored the most points in the Thai and Malaysian Regattas. Starting with the King’s Cup , the award has been contested over the Royal Langkawi International Regatta, the Phang Nga Bay Regatta, (now the Bay Regatta), the Top of the Gulf Regatta, the Samui Regatta, finishing with the Ao Chalong Yacht Clubs,

Phuket Multihull Regatta and Phuket Race Week. The inaugural prize went to Roger Kingdon’s Moto Inzi in 2006-2007. The following year after six regattas and nearly 40 races the result was decided on the final cross of the final leg of the final race in Phuket Race Week with Henry Kaye’s Mamba passing Moto Inzi to claim the prize. 2009 to 2013 saw Hans Rahmann’s Voodoo dominate, claiming the title for five consecutive years. In the 2013 – 2014 racing season, John Newnham’s rejuvenated Twin Sharks started the season winning the Phuket Kings Cup after a close tussle with Voodoo. Twin Sharks was also victorious on OMR in the 2014 Bay Regatta. The Multihull Solutions Phuket Multihull Regatta saw Neil Ayre’s Advanced Racing Mamba victorious over Twin Sharks. In Phuket Race Week, Twin Sharks fought off a strong challenge from Advanced and Voodoo to take the regatta win and the Firefly of the Year award. John and Twin Sharks have won the FF of the Year award every year since (Source: Mark Pescott).

AD 1/4

he Royal Selangor Yacht Club proceeded with the 31st edition of the Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta in 2021, after postponing the event for a year due to lockdowns and changing pandemic situations. RMSIR31 was run from 10 to 18 December and featured a simplified format, focusing on friendly passage and harbour races with social events kept to a minimum. The regatta was open to sailing enthusiasts who were unlikely to be hampered by travel constraints and adherence to a strict SOP was made a condition of event entry. All participants, organisers and guests were required to be fully vaccinated and appropriate spacing at tables was stipulated for social events.

Traditionally, RMSIR takes a regular course along Malaysia’s west coast, with yachts starting at Port Klang and making their way – via the Straits of Malacca – to the islands of Pangkor, Penang and Langkawi. The same basic format was followed this year but local day racing was organised close to Pangkor instead of in Penang harbour.

Courses

Yellow Brick Trackers were used again this year, and proved to every helpful for safety reason and to ease the burden of race officers. All participating yachts were issued a tracker which sent signals every 20 minutes via satel-

RAJA MUDA

S A I L S FOR 31st TIME Photography by Zanarita Nasir

lite, so that yachts could be tracked easily on a mobile application and website with an internet connection. Trackers sent out very accurate signals as yachts crossed agreed finish lines on the charts and these finish times were used as the official results, backed up by photographic evidence of finish times recorded on each boat. The offshore race courses all had finish positions to accommodate Virtual Lines. The three finish lines were all longer and used fixed marks at each end wherever possible. Sailors did not seem to have any difficulty locating and crossing the virtual lines and recording their positions and times for back up as required. For all inshore courses, one start boat was used due to the small number of participating yachts.

to the Malaysian SSL team in Meraki. Insanity and Nijinsky also sailed close together for much of the course, with Insanity finishing 15 minutes ahead at 03.10hrs but Nijinsky taking the win on corrected time.

Pangkor inshore

Races

Port Klang to Pangkor The start was set for 12.00, but after waiting for the wind it was closer to 13.00 when the three classes started, with Class 3 going first. Boats set off from Port Klang on a close reach heading around 330 degrees in 6 -8kts of westerly breeze. Later in the afternoon and into the evening, the wind was light and progress was slow. The usual land breeze did not come until late in the night, powering everyone up to their respective finishes. First across the line was the Royal Malaysian Navy in Uranus at 12.35hrs, but they had not done enough to secure a win. The two smaller boats, Meraki and The Next Factor, match raced their way up the course to finish 10 minutes apart, with the victory going

Inshore racing was held in Pangkor for the first time this year, as an alternative to Penang harbour. A number of possible courses were included in the SI, with appropriate ones selected according to the wind and tide on the day. Race officer Malcolm Elliott decided to takes the fleets south, around a selection of fixed marks and islands, with different courses set for each class and a variety of upwind and downwind sailing. The sun shone, the breeze was good, and we believe everyone enjoyed sailing in this attractive area between Pangkor and the Sembilan Islands. Meraki took the win in Class 1, Nijinsky in Class 2 and Dash in Class 3.

Pangkor to Penang

At the appointed start time there was almost no breeze and the RO announced a delay, later moving the start a short way up the course. Once the boats did get going there was reasonable breeze and most yachts could more or less lay the course during the afternoon and early evening. But later a strong squall hit the fleet, packing more than 25kts of wind with relatively high waves and causing several shades of havoc. Some boats reduced sail, other did not, and everyone was bounced around in very rough

conditions. In Class 1 Uranus finished around 22.30hrs and that was sufficient to take the win. Meraki retired with a damaged backstay. Insanity in Class 2 crossed the line at 01.14hrs with Nijinsky finishing at 02.22 but taking first on corrected time. In Class 3 Marikh finished at 04.22 with a comfortable win over Dash.

Penang to Langkawi

The NE wind was in from the start and all classes went off on time on a starboard tack. Progress was good, to the west of the lay line, with most yachts tacking onto port after 2 – 3 hours to maintain position. In late afternoon the fleet was caught up in another storm, with heavy rain and strong winds, which lasted around one and a half hours. Times were fast, with Uranus finishing at 20.03 but The Next Factor crossed the line at 20.17hrs and took the Class1 1 win. Insanity, finishing at 20.52hrs achieved their first Class 2 bullet, and Marikh was the Class3 3 winner.

Langkawi Harbour

On the first day racing started with everyone going south towards the islands. As our regular photojournalist Guy Nowell commented last year – “really, if you’re going to race in Langkawi, that’s where you want to be. The limestone cliffs and islands of this archipelago make for world-class scenery, and we like a little something to look at when we’re on the water.” It was once again a race in three parts – first, a brisk run down the harbour under spinnaker, followed by some tiptoeing around the rocky outcrops, then a beat home via various marks in 10 kts or so of afternoon breeze. Light rain came and went. All classes finished in good time. Saturday looked very promising, with good breeze at the start time. Today RO Malcolm Elliott kept Classes 1 and 2 at the top of the harbour doing two windward – leeward races each, but first sending Class 3 away south. Once again some light rain fell but the breeze was good, getting a little lighter towards the end of race two. Racing was close and competitive all round, with Meraki taking two wins in Class1, Nijinsky two wins in class 2 and Dash getting the bullet in Class 3.

Closing Ceremony

The Closing Ceremony was held at the Royal Langkawi Yacht Club terrace. The canopy and table layout for the Closing Dinner was slightly redesigned this year to accommodate les people at tables with SOP spacing for

six people. There was a strong attendance by VIP guests. The stage, sound system and lights worked well and the two three piece band created a great party atmosphere. Fortunately both the quality and service of the buffet food was good this year and compliments were received from various guests. The ceremony was opened by a speech from Datuk Azlan Abdullah, Executive Chairman of the Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, followed by speeches from Mr Martin Axe, who gave a tribute to Captain Marty, a photojournalist and long time friend and supporter of RMSIR, and by the Regatta Chairman, Jeff Harris. Winners of all classes were excited when they collected their awards, usually brining the full crew on stage for celebration photographs.

Winners RMSIR 2021 Class 1: 1. Meraki; 2. The Next Factor; 3. Uranus Class 2: 1. Nijinsky; 2. Insanity; 3. VG Offshore Class 3: 1. Dash; 2. Marikh: 3. Candice 11 Tourism Selangor was once again the RMSIR Title Sponsor, and the organisers are grateful to them as always for providing both generous financial assistance and comprehensive support, including arranging a traditional Malay dance group at RSYC in Port Klang.

Regional

NEWS

5-Star Private Jet Terminal in Phuket to Open A boon for visiting superyacht owners, their guests and high-end tourists

Five-Star fully integrated “Private Jet Terminal” in Phuket, attracting high end Superyacht visitors and tourists worldwide, was announced at a recent grand opening ceremony by Siam Land Flying. The facility, to be fully operational in the early part of 2022, aims to drive Thai tourism and attract more Superyachts to the worldwide dream destination and ‘Asia Pacific Superyacht Hub’ of Phuket, Thailand. “The opening of the Private Jet Terminal of Siam Land Flying Phuket is another major milestone for the company’s business operation as it sees the continuous growing trend of private jet business, particularly during the pandemic situation. The Private Jet business has gained more popularity as it offers privacy among VIP tourists who emphasize convenience and service standards as their top priorities”, said Mr. Kachorn Chiaravanont, Executive Vice Chairman of Siam Land Flying Co., Ltd. A long-time Luxury Private Jet Charter service and worldclass air ambulance services provider across SE Asia under the service brand of Executive Wings and Medical wings, the new Private Jet Terminal was announced at the Grand Opening. The event officially inaugurating the special announcement occasion was co-chaired by Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Public Health, Mr. Narong Woon-

Regional

NEWS 63

ciew, Phuket Governor Mr. Prapas Kong-ied, Director General Treasury Department, Mr. Nitinai Sirismatthakarn, President of the Airport Authority of Thailand Public Company Ltd. and Mr. Soopakij Chearavanont, Chairman of Charoen Pokphand Group along with various representatives from the public sector and leading national and local business operators. Private Jets have become an alternative in the new normal tourism, minimizing contact from the airport’s congestion and during flights. The opening of this private terminal is another factor that will increase confidence among tourists who travel by private jets, including superyacht owners. The end-to-end services at the terminal meet the international standards for safety and security but at the same time are faster and more convenient, impressing tourists as they arrive in Phuket, a major superyacht hub in Asia with four well equipped marinas and a dream destination for tourists worldwide. Siam Land Flying, which as a subsidiary of Charoen Pokphand Group, is extremely proud to support the Thai tourism industry, stating the facility will draw more tourists with high purchasing power and will generate revenue and spending in the country, as well as creating new jobs for local people. Mr. Greg Martin, Chief Executive Officer of Siam Land Flying Co., Ltd. said at the opening, “The Private Jet Terminal of Siam Land Flying Phuket is fully equipped to provide a premium service for our VIP guests in a discrete and safe manner.” “The Private Jet Terminal building is situated on a 17-rai area of land in Mai Kao Sub-District, Talang District, Phuket Province. Our 1,200-square-meter Private Jet Terminal features several VIP lounges and all of the services required for smooth travel both internationally and domestically with Immigration, Customs and Disease Control services available on-site.” “Our comprehensive services and our world class facilities cement Siam Land Flying’s determination to enhance the very first experience amongst our guests once they reach Thailand. We have made significant investments in fully electric ground support equipment including aircraft tow tugs, ground power units and support vehicles at the Siam Land Private Jet Terminal. This helps achieve our sustainability goals as most other facilities around the world use diesel powered equipment”, added Mr. Martin. The terminal is complemented by approximately 7,000 square meters of hangar space and 12,000 square meters of Apron space to provide safe parking for large-sized private jets. For example, up to 7 Gulfstream G650’s can be accommodated, as well as accommodating ultra largesized private jets, such as the Boeing Business Jet or Airbus Corporate Jet. Maintenance support can be provided by the licensed aircraft engineers which are part of the Siam Land Flying team. In addition, other services are provided such as shuttle service, hotel reservation & co-ordination, tourism & recreation consultancy, in-flight food & beverage service, and VIP lounges for departing and arriving passengers as well as crews.