Adventure Awaits
Kilkea is a 268-foot concept expedition superyacht designed to tackle remote and demanding environments while offering luxurious comfort. Presented by Shackleton Superyachts, the vessel is proposed with an Ice Class steel hull and a build at Vard in Ålesund, Norway, reflecting a commitment to rugged construction and shipyard expertise. Propulsion is diesel-electric, combining four electric generators with four diesel engines to power two controllable-pitch propellers—an arrangement that can improve fuel efficiency, reduce vibration and extend operational range compared with conventional drivetrains. Inside, the design calls for 18 staterooms able to accommodate 36 guests, making Kilkea suitable for extended private charters, scientific expeditions, or adventurous family travel. Practical features include a helicopter landing pad for rapid transfers and emergency access, plus provisions and fuel capacity intended to allow the yacht to remain at sea for up to a month without resupply. The concept is offered with an estimated purchase price of $72 million. For reference and representation, the project is associated with edmiston.com.
4,188
4,188 is the number of lives the U.S. Coast Guard reported saving in 2017, according to its published annual report. That figure highlights the vital role of search-and-rescue operations, maritime safety patrols and coordinated emergency responses that protect recreational boaters, commercial mariners and coastal communities. Coast Guard statistics like these underscore the importance of preparation, safety equipment, and training for anyone heading onto open water.
“Our hearts go out to everyone involved in this terrible incident. It has been difficult for the crew and the entire Vestas 11th Hour Racing team. We are grateful for the overwhelming support we’ve had during this very tough time.” — Charlie Enright, co-founder of Vestas 11th Hour Racing, after the team’s raceboat collided with a fishing vessel outside of Hong Kong Harbor near the finish of Leg 4 of the Volvo Ocean Race. A crewmember aboard the fishing boat was killed.
Piscatorial Pilsner
Jeff Currier, an accomplished fly angler and artist, combines his passion for fishing with detailed wildlife illustration. Currier’s artwork appears on a range of traditional surfaces such as paper and canvas, and is also reproduced on durable beer mugs that feature more than 30 fish species. Each mug is printed using a dye-sublimation process that produces vivid, long-lasting color and makes them dishwasher-safe for everyday use. Designed for anglers and collectors alike, the mugs are priced at about $30. The artist’s portfolio and product information are available through his website, jeffcurrier.com.
A Venetian in Crete
The lighthouse at the entrance to Chania Harbor on the island of Crete carries a layered history. The original lighted structure was constructed by Venetian occupiers in the late 16th century and served not only as a navigational aid but also as part of the harbor’s defenses; a heavy chain could be stretched across the harbor entrance to block intruders and connect to Firkas Fortress onshore. In 1839, during a period of Egyptian control that supported Ottoman rule in the region, a newer tower was built to replace or reinforce the earlier installation. World War II bombardments later caused the lighthouse to lean, and a significant refurbishment in 2005 restored its structural and visual presence. Today the light stands approximately 69 feet above sea level and remains visible across the Mediterranean for roughly seven miles, guiding vessels into Chania Harbor.
Let There Be Light
Marine equipment supplier Imtra was selected to provide lighting systems and helm furniture for a new high-speed passenger ferry planned to carry up to 600 passengers on a commuter route between Monmouth County, New Jersey, and Wall Street in New York City. The 150-foot, 35-knot vessel under construction in Franklin, Louisiana, is designed to deliver fast, reliable daily trips—each scheduled to take less than 40 minutes each way. Imtra’s contribution includes CLite2 searchlights, NorSap 1500 helm chairs for crew comfort and ergonomics, LED lighting for passenger areas, IS15 utility lights for engine-room tasks, Ventura PowerLED fixtures in the wheelhouse, and Offshore-series LED deck lights for exterior illumination. In addition to this new ferry, Imtra is supplying high-output searchlights as part of refurbishment efforts for six ferries operating in Texas, supporting visibility and safety improvements across multiple passenger services.
This article originally appeared in the April 2018 issue.