Fitzroy Yachts NZ triumphs at the World Superyacht Awards

by Media Services on 10 May 2011 Fitzroy Yachts have enjoyed a very successful night at the sixth annual World Superyacht Awards, taking out two Neptune Awards for the superlative sailing superyacht, Zefira.

On 7th May 2011, the superyacht industry’s finest gathered in the magnificent surroundings of London’s Guildhall for the most glamorous and anticipated event in the yachting calendar – the sixth annual World Superyacht Awards.

Combining a glittering awards ceremony with a gala dinner and dance, the Awards – dubbed the 'Oscars' of the superyacht world – were attended by an more than 500 superyacht owners from around the globe and the most influential players in the superyacht industry.

Zefira, built by Fitzroy Yachts, received not one but two prized silver Neptunes for ‘Best Sailing Yacht in 45m+ category’ and ‘Sailing Yacht of the Year’.

Zefira’s European owner’s had a dream to create not only a world-class yacht, but a work of art. Their courage, passion and vision, together with a world renowned team including Dubois Naval Architects, Remi Tessier, and Fitzroy Yachts have created a true masterpiece that has now been recognised as one of the great superyachts of the world.

The Dubois designed vessel was built to exceptional quality levels which continue the yards reputation for building award winning superyachts. Powered by a Caterpillar C32 1450 bhp main engine and a Hundested variable pitch propeller, the propulsion system provides long range motor sailing abilities. The 56 meter ‘light weight’ carbon fiber sailing rig was supplied by Southern Spars, and the sails inventory provided by North Sails.

Nineteen coveted Neptune Awards, three Chihuly artworks designed especially for the occasion and five Judges’ Commendation prizes by Baccarat were awarded to the winners on the night.

The night’s big winners were:

Motor Yacht of the Year, sponsored by Camper & Nicholsons International, went jointly to 162.50m Eclipse, by Blohm and Voss and styled by Terence Disdale Design and 50m Exuma, built by Pichiotti/Perini Navi and designed by Philippe Briand.

Sailing Yacht of the Year, sponsored by Dream Ship Victory, went to 49.70m Zefira, built by Fitzroy Yachts and designed by Dubois Naval Architects.

The Voyager’s Award, sponsored by Porto Montenegro, was awarded to the owners of the 46m expedition yacht Dione Sky, whose route drew a figure of eight around both North and South America and crossed both the Arctic and Antarctic Circles.

The Legacy Award was presented to Elizabeth E. Meyer, for her instrumental role in the restoration of the J-Class Yachts, beginning with her own 130-foot sloop Endeavour in 1983, and the founding of the International Yacht Restoration Society (IYRS) in 1993.

More at http://worldsuperyachtawards.com/ and www.fitzroyyachts.com