New Yacht: Ice 62
Sam Jefferson examines the latest designs and launches…
Beneteau First 30
The revival of Beneteau’s First series was fully achieved with the Beneteau First 36; a brand new racer focused on speed. The First 30 continues this theme. Crafted by Sam Manuard in collaboration with the Seascape team and Lorenzo Argento, this design serves as both a racer and a cruiser. Weighing a modest 3,100kg, it is light but not overly so. The emphasis lies on early planning with twin rudders for enhanced grip and control. The yacht features a deep draft of 1.98m, along with the availability of a shallower draft option. The interior remains straightforward, catering to cruisers who prefer less luxury. Consequently, it includes a double berth forwards, another towards the rear, plus a reasonably sized heads compartment. This boat is poised to offer a great sailing experience.
Check out the Beneteau website
Beneteau
Leopard 46
The South African builder Leopard Catamarans gained significant recognition by supplying charter organizations Sunsail and Moorings with most of their multihull charter fleet. This established the company as one of the largest manufacturers of cruising catamarans. While its models cater primarily to the charter market, they are equally viable for private ownership. The new 46 offers spacious accommodations and ease of handling. Additional options like a performance rig, electric propulsion, and various three to five cabin layouts demonstrate its design versatility.
Visit the Leopard Catamarans site
Leopard
Ice 62
ICE Yachts is an Italian shipyard known for crafting fast, luxurious cruiser-racer boats from carbon fiber. The latest model, the ICE 62, has been designed by Umberto Felci. As per its creators, this new vessel is set to ‘redefine luxury, comfort, and innovation standards in the Fast Cruiser sector’—a bold statement indeed. Regardless, the yacht exudes style, and ICE is recognized for its exquisite carbon fiber craftsmanship and premium fittings, making this a promising addition to their lineup.
Check out the Ice Yachts website
Ice Yacht
Vaan R6
Vaan, a Dutch boat manufacturer, has gained recognition for producing catamarans with aluminum hulls made from recycled materials whenever feasible. The R6 represents the company’s largest and most ambitious project to date, measuring 58 feet. It’s unmistakably a cruising catamaran with ample space, yet its weight is maintained at a modest 21,000kg, ensuring performance aspects are not overlooked. In its commitment to sustainability, the Vaan features a hull crafted from recycled aluminum with cork decking and other eco-friendly features. Electric motors come standard, with an optional diesel generator as backup.
Explore the Vaan Yachts website
Vaan Yachts
Eagle 46
Eagle Yachts creates somewhat opulent boats designed for weekend sailing with a remarkable flair. Their long, elegantly flowing classic lines are complemented by modern keel and rudder designs along with lightweight construction, ensuring both outstanding performance and true elegance on the water. The new 46 marks the latest addition to their lineup—though her length is impressive, she remains focused primarily on weekend sailing. Nonetheless, the saloon contains a forward double berth along with a heads and a galley. If spacious interiors aren’t your priority and you seek a vessel for fast sailing in timeless style, then this is your answer.
Visit the Leonardo Yachts website
Eagle Yachts