Azzura Marine Launches Superfast Sailing Multihull Yacht

15th September 2009

Australia's premier superyacht refit and repair facility, Azzura Marine, has launched one of the world's fastest luxury sailing multihull yachts.

Azzura Marine's Managing Director confirmed that the impressive 32 metre multihull, Necker Belle (formerly Lady Barbaretta), has undergone a major refit and refurbishment that has transformed her and given her a new lease of life.

Boasting a new paint job, new look and new name, the unique, light weight, all-carbon fibre yacht has been significantly rebuilt and redesigned to reach speeds of up to 25 knots.

Necker Belle had extensive upgrades to her yacht's sailing systems, including new sails, deck hardware and a new mast measuring a dizzying 38 metres high.

The 14 metre-beam interior was significantly remodelled by Azzura Marine's dedicated fit out division, AM Interiors. Specialised craftsmen were responsible for the design and construction of the entire interior, including an additional guest cabin, providing luxuriously appointed accommodation for an extra two guests.

During the commissioning of her systems in Azzura Marine's large construction hall, a water tower was set up to simulate seawater use within each system. This allowed all the major systems including the main engines and generators to be fully load tested.

The Necker Belle crew have begun extensive dockside testing of the yacht, including the stepping of her mast, at Azzura Marine's state-of-the-art facility in Newcastle, Australia. Once she has completed the trials, she will be sailed more than 10,000 nautical miles home to the Caribbean where Virgin Limited Edition, Sir Richard Branson's collection of award-winning retreats, will charter her on a weekly basis to discerning guests.

Complying with commercial charter boat standards, Necker Belle has had her accreditation upgraded from MCA LY1 to MCA LY2, ensuring she is one of the finest multihulls available on the charter market.

With its impressive site features and vast technical experience, Azzura Marine has established a solid reputation as the superyacht refit and repair centre of choice for yachts visiting the Australasian and South Pacific regions.

In addition to refit and repair, Azzura Marine is internationally recognised for the construction of premium quality custom motor and sail vessels and high performance racing yachts. From traditional through to contemporary designs and build techniques, Azzura Marine is accomplished at designing, manufacturing and refitting the largest vessels.

Azzura Marine's interiors division, AM Interiors, is fast becoming a huge success with several multi-million dollar contracts signed, including the iconic Hamilton Island Yacht Club and adjoining luxury villas in addition to securing a contract with American ship builder Trinity Yachts to complete the interior fit out of its latest 57 metre new build.

Azzura Marine will be exhibiting as part of the Superyacht Australia stand (SYBA) at the Monaco Yacht Show in September (Darse Nord Air Conditioned Tent, QD21) and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October (Y&B Tent, 669).