Designed by Denn Clifford in collaboration with the boatyard’s design office, the first motor catamaran produced by Sunreef Yachts will be launched early this year. Called “Sunreef Power 67”, it is intended for all those who want a boat combining comfort and high performance. It offers a spacious flybridge of 50 m2, a top speed of 25 knots and a range of 3,000 miles. www.sunreef-yachts.com

Whether you’re a yachtsman, deep-sea diver or fisherman, you soon won’t be able to do without this device ! The Hondex PS-7 is as small as a torchlight and thus very handy. Waterproof to 50 m, it displays depths of up to 80 m on its luminous LCD screen. It works on a 9-volt battery, is shock resistant and can be connected to a sounding device afloat. www.hondex.co.jp

All aboard “Le Ponant”, a magnificent 3-master ready and waiting to take you to the Seychelles. You will sail through the Mediterranean, the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean for the period of your choice between this winter and next spring. The “Ponant” offers 32 cabins accommodating up to 64 passengers, making her a yacht on a human scale, able to moor in spots that are inaccessible for the more usual, larger cruise ships. You’ll then discover eight of the loveliest islands in the Archipelago and benefit from privileged contact with their inhabitants and natural beauty. If you’re interested in other destinations, the “Compagnie des Iles du Ponant”, which also owns “Le Levant” and “Le Diamant”, can suggest fabulous cruises all over the world (Egypt, Sicily, Croatia, Greece, Chile, Costa Rica, Qatar…). Cruises to the Seychelles and Amirantes Islands until March 30th. www.ponant.com

The 28th Royal Regattas-Panerai Trophy have now published their programme of events, inviting fans to take part in this historic sailing event. Under the patronage of the Yacht Club de France and organized by the Fédération Française de Voile and the Yacht Club de Cannes, these regattas are open to all boats in the “Tradition Sailboat” and “Spirit of Tradition” categories. Du 24 au 30 septembre, Port de Cannes. www.regatesroyales.com

“A little paradise on earth” according to Colette, Saint-Tropez turns into paradise on sea for the duration of an extremely congenial event : “Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez” (formerly known and still fondly remembered as the Nioulargue !). Modern and traditional yachts compete in the Gulf, offering a sight for sore eyes. Du 30 septembre au 8 octobre, Port de Saint-Tropez. www.ot-saint-tropez.com

The only show in the world to devote itself entirely to top-notch models, and thus the only one to assemble so many super and mega yachts. This year, the Monaco Yacht Show will exhibit 95 yachts afloat from 25 to 90 metres long. As in all past editions, it will also unveil about 30 new models in exclusivity. Shipyards, equipment suppliers, brokers, naval architects, designers, service companies… over 500 firms from among leading international names in the world of high-class yachting will set up their booths in exhibition space totalling 8,000 m2. Whether you’re a passionate or wealthy fan, a simple visitor or a member of the trade, you will discover the latest developments in technology and meet trend-setters in the sector. This 16th edition has sponsors as prestigious as the event itself : watch-maker Blancpain (for the seventh year running !), the S.M.E.F. (Société Monégasque des Etudes Financières) and Mercedes-Benz. Du 20 au 23 septembre, Port Hercule, Principauté de Monaco (00 377 93 10 41 70). www.monacoyachtshow.mc

Waterproof cases for MP3s are the ideal accessory for any trip out to sea. Available in two sizes, in welded translucid plastic, with a foldback and triple zip seal, they offer total protection from the water : even better, they float ! Very vulnerable when used outdoors, your MP3 no longer has anything to fear. 01 30 10 50 10. www.topoplastic.com

As organizer of the Saint-Tropez Nautical Rally, the agency Autrechoz Communication invites you to participate in a really congenial occasion. The circuit will in fact include several playful, historic and cultural features, taking you to the famous beaches of Pampelonne and others further along the coast. Ask for your roadbook and set off on a new adventure… Le 4 août, port de Saint-Tropez. Inscription et réservation au 06 09 21 94 88.

A company that lives up to its name ! Its areas of expertise are in fact quite extensive : sales and rentals (of boats, but also helicopters and limousines), bookings, supplies, laundry, floral compositions… Aboard your yacht, one thing’s for sure : with the team from All Services, you’ll lack for nothing. It also proposes assistance in everything related to insurance, harbour berths, technico-logistical support and security services and, if you wish, will provide guidance for your itineraries by indicating the best hotels, restaurants and places to visit. Expertly directed by Alessandro Sartore, the company has about a dozen employees, each one keener than the next to meet your requirements and satisfy your demands. All Services works in partnership with almost 300 service suppliers and is thus well-equipped to provide all the services essential to your comfort. With a smile as a bonus! All services, via del Castillo, Portosole, San Remo. 00 39 0184 533 533. www.allservices.net

The Wallypower 118 (32 metres, 60 knots) is an atypical boat. Built in 2002, it was presented last year at the very important exhibition of architecture and design at the Museum of Modern Art in San Franciso. And it put in another much-noticed appearance at the last Hublot PalmaVela regatta, inviting VIP guests on board to watch the various events. www.wally.com

Teak floors, cream leather sofas, Egyptian cotton bedding… The owners of the brand new Koko (home port Antibes) have transformed its interior to offer a chic Italian ambiance. With cruising capacity for 12 guests and sleeping accommodation for six, Koko can be chartered for day, weekend and week-long cruises to Corsica, Saint-Tropez, Sardinia or Amalfi.
Please contact Janine : Ocean Independence, 57 rue Grimaldi, Monaco (377 97 70 38 80).

MSC Musica will make its inaugural cruise on July 1st, with 25 to 30 % reductions offered by tour operator Selectour. Prices with full board start at 990 € per person, with 1 or 2 children aged under 18 sharing their parents’ cabin for free. The same benefits apply for 8-day cruises departing from Venice on July 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, August 5th. The Musica will call at Bari (Italy), Katakolon (Greece), Izmir and Istanbul (Turkey) and Dubrovnik (Croatia). Connecting flights from Nice cost 360 € return. The 4-star Musica offers 4 restaurants, several bars and lounges, a fitness centre, and 1,275 de-luxe cabins, most with a balcony over the sea. VIP Leaders Travel, 113 rue de France, Nice (04 93 44 56 56). www.selectour.com

The new feature in this year’s edition will be the launching of the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge : a gathering of “yachts d’époque” (built before 1950), classics (built before 1976) and Spirit of Tradition, which is part of the International Championships of the Mediterreanean. On dry land, festivities and a friendly atmosphere, with exhibitions, concerts, cocktail parties, beachwear parades and other surprises… Du 31 mai au 4 juin. (04 93 34 42 47). www.voilesdantibes.com

The beautiful city of Venice is playing host to the sixth edition of the “Wooden Boats Meeting”, an event entirely devoted to Rivas made of mahogany. The chance to admire extraordinary models and for participants to ride the waves without modern technology. An event that is, in fact, delightfully retro. www.rivaraduni2006.com

“Pointus”, “catalanes”, “felouques”, “barquettes”, “tartanons” and “gozzi” make for a really colourful fleet of boats in this French event on the international circuit. Regattas offering a sight for sore eyes and featuring some really great models. The event is enlivened by the “Rencontres du Patrimoine Maritime Méditerranéen” (at the Renaissance cinema), the Village of Carpenters, Sailors and Craftsmen of the Sea (in the marquee), the Mediterranean Book Fair and an exhibition entitled “Voiles Latines… Retour aux Sources” (on the Place des Lices). Once again, these few days will allow the port to unfurl all the magic of yesteryear and enable visitors to discover an extremely lively culture based on sailing the Med. from May 11th to 14th. (04 94 97 45 21). www.ot-saint-tropez.com

This is the latest range proposed by Topoplastic, the one you need for carefree feasts on board. Light, resistant and quite happy to be popped into the dishwasher, the collection is made of 100% melamine, a natural material that comes from cellulose. The design is, of course, inspired by the marine tradition and harmoniously adorns plates, glasses, bowls, dishes and cutlery. If you’re fussy about details, you can also treat yourself to matching tablecloths and napkins ! www.topoplastic.com

Escale Outremer introduces Freya. Beside a highly professional crew, this 20-metre catamaran can host to up to 12 guests for a dream of a cruise. Freya is at your disposal for one-off events, evenings, birthdays, as well as charters lasting one, two or seven days, two weeks or even a month… Enquire about the many different formulas, choose the one that suits you best and res-erve immediately !

Deliberately scheduled before the summer period, the “Salon du Bateau d’Occasion” is the ideal opportunity to find the boat of your dreams. Because it presents a rigorous selection of 400 models between 3 and 25 metres long (new and secondhand) and is attended by 200 builders and 85 exhibitors in 10,000 m2 exhibition space, this event has become Europe’s N°1 fair for secondhand boats. In addition to this exceptional offering, the fair also features numerous services and accessories in the following categories : fittings, engines, equipment, insurance, harbours, clothing, tourism… Plus two novelties for this 16th edition : a section for sailboats and another dedicated to water sports and leisure activities. Admission free. 16e Salon du Bateau d’Occasion, du 30 mars au 3 avril, Port La Napoule, Mandelieu. (04 92 97 80 89).

Just out of the Rotinor plants, this little rocket endowed with a powerful jet drive enables you to speed across the water, combining skimming sensations with relaxation and even plunging 40 m below the surface. Easy to pilot and not requiring any permit, it attains a speed of 20 km per hour. Economical and environment-friendly, the aquatic vehicle is the “nec plus ultra” in terms of high technology with very appealing design as a bonus. www.seabob.de

The four ships in the Silversea fleet (Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper) criss-cross the sea taking original itineraries that are never repeated with almost 150 dfferent cruises proposed every year (Mediterranean, Latin America, Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean, Northern Europe…). On board, you’ll benefit from top-notch appointments : the vast, luxurious suites guarantee irreproachable comfort with bed-linen bearing the Frette label, accessories from Acqua di Parma, gastronomy assured by chefs from “Relais & Châteaux”, a cigar cellar handled by Davidoff, champagne supplied by Philipponat and beauty care entrusted to Mandara… Furthermore, to ensure that you are truly satisfied, Silversea has opted for the “all-inclusive” formula. No need to deprive yourself of anything ! Further details and reservations in travel agencies or on the cruiseline’s website. www.silversea.com

With a name meaning “porthole”, fate was in the air ! For several years, this famous watch-maker has given its support to various international nautical events. Among other things, Hublot sponsored Dominique Wavre’s monohull in the Solitaire 2004, the “Palma Vela Hublot Regatta” in 2005, and is also the official chronometer for the Wally Class as well as exclusive partner of the Monaco Yacht Club. Hublot’s prestigious watches, both traditional and innovative, with their spearhead design and technical features, thus accompany exceptional occasions on the sea-faring calendar. Hublot and the sea : a winning combination ! www.hublot.com

One of the finalists together with seven other harbours in the Alpes-Maritimes and the Var, Saint-Pierre des Embiez has carried off the “Prix de l’Education à l’Environnement Pavillon Bleu Banque Populaire Côte d’Azur”. It has thus been rewarded for its activities to encourage awareness amongst boating enthusiasts of the natural milieu and for its avant-garde approach to the use of models giving priority to renewable energies, with an electro-solar catamaran currently undergoing experimentation.

From the time you acquire your boat until the day you sell it, many a problem may arise. With its multi-ownership solution, Movado Marine promises enjoyment without the disadvantages. Sharing costs, sailing from eleven to 23 weeks per year, delegating the management of your yacht, motorboat, open or sail yacht, selling your share whenever you like … Boating without the headaches ! Movado Marine (06 30 70 15 30) www.movadomarine.com

Last September, copying the example of airline companies, Costa Croisières launched its new “Prima” tariff to encourage clients to make advance reservations rather than last-minute bookings. ABcroisiere.com is one of the latest to propose extremely competitive prices. Others, such as MSC and Croisifrance (one paying passenger/one free for a limited number of cabins), are also adopting this new policy. You can now settle down to plan your holidays, take all the time you need to programme everything and get really organized. No more hasty decisions in order to benefit from reduced rates !

This is the largest yacht so far built by the Riva boatyard. A boatyard which has successfully carried off an important challenge : building a boat of over 35 metres which meets the same criteria of refinement and stylishness as those that have made Riva a legend in its time. This extremely elegant model of exemplary design also boasts top-notch performance and spearhead technical features. www.riva-yacht.com

In the sunshine on the Côte d’Azur, at the International Boat Festival held in Cannes from September 14th to 19th, Nautitech staged an exclusive presentation of the last two models in its range : the Nautitech 40 and 47. Models for all fans of catamarans who refuse to sacrifice navigation for comfort or vice versa. www.nautitech.fr

Founded in 1992, this company took Monégasque status in 1998. Specializing in top-notch yachting, it offers a vast choice in its catalogue for the acquisition, hire or construction of sail or motor yachts. Not representing any particular boat-builder, it guides its clients depending on their expectations and advises on aspects such as logistics, crew and construction while also handling post-purchase follow-up, management, chartering and re-sale. Its most recent acquisition, the 100’ Azimut Jumbo, is a real gem, offered for sale at 3,000,000 €. Come take a look ! Ivaldi Yachting Monaco, 1 bis rue Princesse Florestine (00 377 97 77 88 60). www.ivaldiyacht.com

Replacing the very famous Nioulargue, this event welcomes almost 250 sailing yachts including not only classic models but also the most recent and prestigious racing prototypes, from many different countries. Sportsmanship, competitiveness and conviviality are on the bill, with an exciting programme for fans of regattas and a full array of festivities for landlubbers ! From October 1st to 9th, port de Saint-Tropez (04 94 97 45 21).
Photos : J-L. Chaix/Ville de Saint-Tropez - Press

Thanks to the line designed by Manrico in close partnership with Moravia Boatique, you can now sleep in cashmere ! A collection of sheets available in 100 % cashmere or 80 % cashmere and 20 % silk, with a choice of 60 colours. A new and unique sensation in the world of yachting ! Cashmere, 12 avenue des Spélugues, Monaco. (00 377 9777 5658).

MasterCraft Europe has launched its new bi-motor MariStar. A top-notch bow rider 8.61 m long, it combines features specific to water-skiing and wakeboard boats with fittings ideally designed for relaxation (gull-wing hull, spacious sun deck and generous storage space). Powered by two Crusader 375 hp engines, it attains 50 knots in less than 15 seconds. Often compared to an Aston Martin due to its unique control panel and original design, the MariStar 280 SST is definitely something special. Nautic Force, distributeur exclusif France Sud de MasterCraft Europe, 456 avenue Courcettes, Golfe-Juan. (04 93 67 52 48).

This boatyard specializing in the construction of luxury mega-yachts is currently working on completing and commercializing four new models : an 87’ with design and architecture signed Vripack ; a 110’ Motor Yacht, whose hull and superstructure for the first unit have just been finished ; the 110’ Expedition, a yacht designed by Ward Setzer, which recently found an European buyer ; and the 125’ handled by PB Design. www.kingshipyacht.com

The Monaco Yacht Club and Swiss watchmaker Hublot have gotten together for the seventh edition of the Classic Week when about 40 traditional yachts over 25 metres long will meet up. On the programme : the launch of a club devoted to builders of this type of yacht, “La Belle Classe”, the creation of the Hublot YCM watch and the publication of a book on “Tuiga”. From september 13th to 18th at Monaco. Informations : 00 377 93 10 63 00.

This French yacht-builder has just acquired the International Marine Services shipyard in Toulon, a development which marks the firm’s desire to underpin its position as service-supplier. Each year, the centre handles about 100 boats 20 to 50 metres long. It proposes work to meet new norms, decoration, technical improvements, replacement of engines and general maintenance. As well as yachting activities such as chartering, crew training and display of secondhand boats. With a surface area of 12,950 m2 and 250 m of quaysides, the group’s arrival in the Mediteranean will not pass unnoticed. To be continued…
IMS, Le Pin Rolland CD 18, Saint-Mandrier (04 94 30 54 94).

If by chance you notice a huge orange ship on the horizon, it’s easyGroup’s new cruise ship ! Since May 6th and until October 15th, it is sailing the Med from Saint-Tropez to Portofino. Targetting a clientele aged from 18 to 50, it drops anchor at lunchtime and only sets off again the next day at dawn. An original way of discovering the Côte d’Azur and the Italian Riviera in a party atmosphere. Passengers spend at least two nights aboard, fourteen nights maximum.
www.easycruise.com

A standard feature on new Pershing models, the anchor chain airbag is an innovative concept designed and patented by the Mondolfo boatyard. This inflatable bag is used to store the anchor chain at the front of the boat, preventing it from getting enravelled while at sea. Easy and rapid to use, it ensures a safer mooring procedure. www.pershing-yacht.com

The International Boat Show in Cannes met its objectives four months before it opened. 380 exhibitors, 483 yachts, including 160 world premières… These figures mean that the event can claim to be the leading show afloat in Europe and one of the most important at worldwide level. Shipbuilders and top-notch firms entrusted with interior fittings and equipment will naturally be present. And this year again, the festival will take over yet more of the sea to accommodate ever more participants. Any sceptics wondering about the real impact of this event can consider the fact that, of the 50,000 visitors in 2004, 30 % placed orders… from september 14th to 19th on the port of Cannes (01 41 90 47 47). www.salonnautiquecannes.com

Recently acquired by the Ferretti group, this boatyard has introduced a 40’ model to keep the 38’ company. It benefits from research carried out for the 60’ model : rounded windscreen and aerodynamic lines. Even the cockpit and deck have been redesigned, and the gangways will be appreciated. Add to all this, new equipment for engines and electronic devices. Fifteen models have been produced in less than a year. A very good start heralding a real success. www.itama.it

After the 51’ Dolphin, Mochi Craft is introducing MaxiDolphin 74’, presented at the Genoa and Düsseldorf boat shows, and the 44’ Dolphin, eagerly awaited at the Boat Show in Cannes. This specialist for the luxury lobster boat has doubled the sales objective for the 51’ Dolphin, successfully targetting all the world’s seas. Three new models, but still the same philosophy : a generous, curvy shape, inherited from the ’fifties. www.mochicraft-yacht.com

The French boatyard Alliage is launching a line of yachts called Azzuro, designed for sailing the high seas. They comply with the complementary character of the existing range of sailing dinghies and meet the requirements of the triptych “elegance, safety and speed”. The purchaser has a choice of 42, 46, 50 and 60 ft. models. Thanks to a raisable keel, he can benefit from the intoxicating impression of speed and access all kinds of moorings. The low ballast position guarantees real power. Two versions are available : the fast cruising configuration (three cabins, off-centre wardroom) and the racing version (two cabins, central wardroom). The aluminium deck and hull make for real solidity. www.alliage-yachts.com

This success in terms of both design and performance was inspired for its pilot station by F16 Falcon fighter jets. Produced by the Ferretti group, the Pershing 62’ posts a top speed of over 47 knots. Darren Datson, Product Manager for Pershing, looks upon it as the perfect blend between provocative design and astonishing power. Dreaming France, local 2 - Port de La Napoule, Mandelieu-La Napoule (04 93 93 09 10).

The French boatyard Socatra is busy fitting its ships with the JLMD System© which recovers cargos in the event of collision or if they run aground. An effective measure to combat oil slicks. Already installed on the Nizon, Kerlaz and Kermaria, it should soon be extended to cover all of the shipyard’s vessels. JLMD Ecologic Group is pursuing its efforts with the public authorities to see that its system becomes a safety standard. JLMD Ecologic Group, 3 rue Paradis, Nice (04 97 11 09 10).

A yacht’s appointments are just as important for life on board as its design or technical performances. This is the area chosen by Sundeck. With over nine years’ experience, the company proposes furnishings, lighting and fabrics which blend sturdiness with refinement. Focussing on the top end of the range, it stocks prestige brands such as Dedon for its total mastery of resin, Wicker Works, the specialist for wicker, Mcguire for its models in rattan, Summit with its original designs and keen sense of finish. For fabrics, Sundeck relies on Sunbrella, Mcguire and Marina Mill. Used to working with architects and boatyards, the firm also caters for private clients to whom it offers personalized service. And since there’s just one short step from a yacht to a villa, it has easily taken that in its stride. As shown by elegant references on Cap d’Antibes, in Cannes and Monaco. Résidence du Port Vauban, 19 avenue du 11 Novembre, Antibes (04 93 34 82 10).

At the Genoa boat show, the two prestigious manufacturers Pershing and Murphy&Nye made a public announcement of their partnership in the creation of a line of clothing. This range intended for fans of boats gives the two partners a unique opportunity to share their expertise. On the programme, quality fabrics and innovative accessories, exemplified by a Gore-Tex jacket with handy pockets which allows for real freedom of movement. www.pershing-yacht.com

Sobre lines and attention to detail… Belonging to the Custom Line 94 series, Liquidity posts a top speed of 28 knots and a cruising speed of 25 knots. A successful blend of comfort and elegance, 29.25 metres long, the yacht accommodates up to nine guests (four passenger cabins and a berth for the crew). An achievement attained by the CRN boatyard in collaboration with Zuccon International Project for the design… www.customline-yacht.com

This magnificent pleasure craft is 19.8 metres long and 5.5 metres wide. With its three cabins, one of which stretches from one side of the boat to the other, plus a berth for a crew member, it accommodates a total of seven people on board. Each bedroom has its own bathroom, except the master cabin which can boast two. The sailor’s berth at the rear of the boat benefits from independent access. In addition to an intelligent layout, the Carver Marquis 65 has been treated to very refined interior decor. Entrusted to Nuvolari-Lenard, the overall design is highlighted by the use of marble, black granite and precious wood. 1,599,000 € + VAT (subject to variations in the dollar exchange rate). Planet Marine, Le Ducal, Port Marina Baie des Anges, Villeneuve-Loubet (04 93 20 78 96).

Mondolfo in Italy now has a new Pershing complex, ultra-functional and as futuristic as one could possibly imagine. Everything in its overall atmosphere conveys the credo of this famous shipyard : “Performance, design and elegance”. A total surface area of 53.000 m2, representing an investment totalling twelve million euros. pershing-yacht.com

It answers to the name of 68S and belongs to the Open category. 20.74 metres long, 5.20 metres wide, it accelerates from a cruising speed of 31 kots to attain a top speed of 35 knots. P. Blattes Yachting, Port de La Napoule, Cannes - Mandelieu (04 93 93 13 69). www.azimut-yachts.com

From the east coast of America to the Pacific coast of Mexico this new model which cruised alongside thirty other Bertram boats has already shown its mettle. The shipyard designed its V-shaped hull, while Zuccon International Project was entrusted with the re-looking of the superstructure and the interior. The amenities and luxury offered by the 390 also belie its original vocation as a fishing boat. Its new challenge was to ensure easy handling in practical terms while providing real on-board comfort. It is 12.7 metres long, 4.05 metres wide, offers two cabins and a cruising speed of 27 knots. Particular attention been paid to the distribution of the weight and easy maintenance of the engine room. www.bertram.com

Forget about sea-sickness thanks to the ARG (Anti-Rolling Gyro) stabilizer designed by Mitsubishi and installed on boats belonging to the Custom Line (CRN). The only system in the world capable of resisting the swell effect, this ingenious innovation succeeds in reducing it by over 50 %. www.customline-yacht.com
www.crn-yacht.com

This model designed by the prestigious Azimut boatyard proves yet again the perfectionism that characterizes its research, at both esthetic and technical level. 35.50 metres long, 7.65 metres wide, living space that is both practical and airy… A real success ! Azimut, Port de La Napoule, Mandelieu (04 93 93 13 69).

Yachting fans in search of a port-of-call, look no further ! One of the world’s most famous brands now proposes cafés in its very own image. They should soon be opening their doors in all four corners of the world. The first experiment was scheduled for July, in Como. An irony of fate or a deliberate choice ? This was the place that Pietro Riva left 163 years ago, set on launching his own boatyard. Other prestigious manufacturers intend to join this new adventure, including Veuve Clicquot, which has prepared a special range of cocktails based on champagne. However pleasant this foray onto dry land may be, it simply provides the chance to dream again of the deep blue sea, thanks to a Web-TV connection : Riva Channel !

Its dominant tone of blue and its sinuous curves contribute to the originality of this model from Mochi Craft. It owes its practicality and comfort to the extensive use of precious wood and the spacious, open layout. The living quarters, four guest cabins with private bathrooms and the two cabins for the crew are situated on two different levels. After the success of the 51’ Dolphin, Mochi Craft has again opted for the elegant style of the ’fifties. www.mochicraft-yacht.com

By the end of 2006, the Apreamare boatyard (Groupe Ferretti) will have a new production centre. Situated at Torre Annunziata (Naples), it will offer about one hundred moorings. This is the biggest pleasure sailing investment made in southern Italy over the past thirty years : once it is fully operational, it will have provided five hundred jobs. Mercurio Yachting SAS, 2-4 avenue du Général Leclerc, Saint-Tropez (04 94 97 02 22).

A sensuous silhouette, aristocratic elegance, construction combining aluminium and steel… Meet “Ability”, the new mega-yacht from CRN, a fifty-four metre project scheduled for launching in 2005. The shipyard is handling the technical aspects while the Zuccon International Project firm has been entrusted with the design of the internal and external lines. Accommodating twelve passengers and ten crew, this giant of the sea will offer a cruising speed of fourteen knots and a maximum speed of fifteen knots, thanks to two Caterpillar 3512B DITA-SWAC engines. Amenities will include a gym of 18 m2 with sauna, a jacuzzi, sun loungers, dining area and bar on the sun deck. For total luxury, the structure of the latter will be large enough to support a helicopter. www.crn-yacht.com