Brownie’s Marine Group, whose diving systems are aboard many megayachts worldwide, just landed an exclusive worldwide license that gives it an even bigger edge over competitors. It will now make and sell Nitrox Generation Diving Systems for the yacht and shipbuilding markets. Developed by Undersea Breathing Systems, Nitrox Systems has been offered by Brownie’s for…
The annual Seatec exhibition in Italy attracts the top names in technology and subcontracting in the marine sector. Esthec was among the exhibitors at the trade show last month, and rather than simply showcase its virtually maintenance-free, composite decking material, it participated in a design contest – and came out on top. Design students from…
If you attended last week’s Abu Dhabi Yacht Show, then no doubt you saw this unusual tender. You may have even hitched a ride onboard. It’s called the electric sofa boat. And it’s being marketed as a zero-emission, more appealing method of transport particularly for families and women. Measuring 3.5 meters (about 11½ feet), the…
When your satcom service is used by at least 40 of the world’s 100 largest yachts, you know you’re doing something right. But when you can offer them, and others, flexible terms for always-on Internet access, you’re doing something even better. That’s the impression I had after meeting with representatives of MTN Satellite Communications at…
Image: Chris Sharp / FreeDigitalPhotos.net A lot has been made in traditional media of some of the steps megayacht owners are taking to ensure their security onboard. Rumors persist of Paul Allen’s Octopus being manned by former Navy SEALs, for example, and of Roman Abramovich’s upcoming delivery Eclipse being crewed by former SAS and Special…
Meet Necker Nymph, a “flying” submarine that you can charter when staying at Necker Island in the BVIs or in tandem with Necker Belle. Necker Nymph was designed and built by Graham Hawkes of Hawkes Ocean Technologies, who’s also the brains behind Deep Flight Aviator, a prototype created about a decade ago to introduce the…
One of the most popular onboard conveniences is a single handheld and/or touch-screen controller managing lighting, air conditioning, and entertainment options. The ever-present Crestron units come to mind, but no matter the manufacturer, they’re indispensable. With owners and guests increasingly take iPods along, naturally gear and electronics companies are supplying yachts with docking stations. Unfortunately,…
The annual Marine Equipment Trade Show (METS) held in Holland is considered a must-attend event for many builders and designers. Given the “equipment” designation in the name, however, it’s particularly focused on helping electronics, rigging, deck gear, clothing and crew accessories, and other manufacturers network. It’s also where the annual DAME (Design Award METS) prizewinners…
Yachts boasting extreme design elements make the megayacht industry all the more interesting. You’ll hear plenty of designers and owners talk about how they dislike “cookie-cutter” designs. Even if a particular yacht’s looks aren’t your cup of tea, there’s still reason to celebrate the desire for something different. Then there are yachts with long histories…
Just as yacht builders and designers strive for innovation, so, too, do watertoy manufacturers. Scubacraft may be new to the international scene, but its ambitions are high, combining elements of a performance boat with those of a diving craft. The Scubacraft SC3 is being marketed to a variety of water enthusiasts and water-related companies, such…





