When Aeroyacht International introduced its first design, a 110-foot catamaran, earlier this year, the design team characterized it as “today’s most innovative American superyacht” and the “next generation of high-performance sailing vessels.” While just a proposal then, the 110 series—as well as 85- and 125-foo

About six months from now, the expedition yacht you see here will hit the water, from a new company that promises to "appeal to people who want unique experiences . . . to explore the world."

Those are the words of Jim Gilbert, a familiar name in yachting circles. The founding editor of ShowBoats International, he's currently a consultant and among the team members of Aquos Yachts which aims to change attitudes about expedition yachts.

Now, you might be thinking, "What's wrong with the current attitudes?" Nothing – except for the fact that few owners of these types of megayachts have truly pushed their vessels to the far reaches of the world. In Gilbert's opinion, there's been a focus on making massive vessels with luxury spaces, rather than emphasizing the overall yachting experience. Aquos Yachts wants to put the emphasis back on the voyage, not volume. It also wants to do so in a more environmentally responsible way.

About six months from now, the expedition yacht you see here will hit the water, from a new company that promises to “appeal to people who want unique experiences…to explore the world.”

When most people think of refit yards, locations in Florida or Europe come to mind. But there are fine facilities along the West Coast of the United States, too – Marine Group Boat Works being among them. Located in Chula Vista on San Diego Bay, Marine Group Boat Works has serviced, refitted, and repaired a number of power and sail megayachts since its founding just a few years ago.

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.

It’s become customary to hear a shipyard tout its ability to construct a yacht at a lower price than top-tier competitors. The yard is typically located in a country with lower labor costs, accounting for part of the savings. Unfortunately in some cases, however, the quality is just not there. I’ve seen unevenly fitted wood paneling, poorly installed wiring, and once even cracks in a superstructure.

Expedition yachts that are converted commercial vessels seem to hold a particular fascination with yacht-watchers. Alucia is one of those, mostly due to her purpose as an ocean-exploration platform. As I’ve written previously, her owners are underwater documentary filmmakers and plan to make dives by themselves as well as with scientists to learn more about how to protect sealife.

You’ve heard of trade shows and boat shows… but what about crew shows?

Over the summer, Sanlorenzo announced it would introduce the SL 100 New at the Genoa boat show.