Benetti launches largest superyacht to date

A Farewell and Heartfelt Thank You from JD Yachts

After 25 extraordinary years, JD Yachts will be closing its doors.

This has not been an easy decision—but it’s one we’ve made with deep reflection and immense pride in all that we’ve achieved. We set out to build a company grounded in trust, transparency, and a passion for getting people on the water. We believe we’ve done just that.

To our clients—some of whom have been with us from the very beginning—we owe everything. Your unwavering support and trust shaped our journey. Many of you returned to us time and again for your boating needs, and that loyalty became the foundation of our business. We’re honoured to have helped so many families and individuals realise their dreams of yachting across the UK and the Mediterranean.

To our industry colleagues, tradespeople, and the marinas who welcomed and supported our work—you made this possible. The collaborative spirit and shared commitment to excellence within the marine sector gave JD Yachts its wings. We always sought to drive business back into local trades and infrastructures, and we’re proud to have played a part in sustaining that ecosystem.

To our dedicated team—Toby Hawkins and Isabella O’Leary—thank you for your incredible contribution, professionalism, and commitment to our shared mission. You’ve been integral to our journey and success.

A special thank you to our families for your constant support, patience, and belief in us—especially through the demanding times. JD Yachts has always been about more than just boats; it’s been about people, partnerships, and heart.

The current business climate, especially for SMEs in the marine sector, has become increasingly complex and challenging—particularly in relation to post-Brexit trade regulations and the double taxation of vessels between the UK and EU. These conditions have made it nearly impossible to scale sustainably or operate competitively abroad. We believe it’s important to acknowledge how much the industry has changed—and how vital it is to protect what was once a thriving cornerstone of Britain’s maritime heritage.

As we close this chapter, we do so with enormous gratitude for every client, colleague, and friend we’ve met along the way. The memories, the adventures, and the trust you placed in us will stay with us forever.

Thank you for letting JD Yachts be part of your story. We are proud of the legacy we leave behind.

With heartfelt thanks,

Darren & Justin

Off Canvas

Benetti-launches-largest-superyacht-to-date

On February, 5 2019 Bennetti launched Project FB272, the largest superyacht in the brand’s history as of yet, built at their Italian shipyard in Livorno. The 107-meter yacht is set to become one of the 40 largest yachts in the world.

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This news comes as Benetti is gearing up for a first in its history, the upcoming launches of 3, 100 meter plus new builds, which it has been working on for the past 4 years. These yachts will be the first from the Italian shipyard with a 3-digit length and are set to overcome the yard's current flagship, Philipp Green's 90-meter Lionheart.

With 3,800 GT of interior volume spread over 6 decks, the 107-meter yacht has a 15.2-meter beam. FB277, as it has been called throughout the build, was project managed by Imperial Yachts, which are also involved with 3 new-builds at Lurssen currently.

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The exterior concept was developed by the group’s designer Giorgio Cassetta in a partnership with Azure Naval Architects, Zaniz Interiors and Reymond Langron Design. One of the distinctive features of FB272 are three-meter-high windows spreading the light indoors. The yacht offers a vast variety of dining and social zones incorporated into the superstructure. Helicopter landing pad with a fuelling station is accessible from a private deck.

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According to Paolo Vitelli, Azimut Bennetti president, the building process took more than 2 million hours of work, delivered by over 100 suppliers. The construction also took over 500,000 meter of cables and 800 square meters of glass. ‘This iconic project has had a huge impact on local industry and can be truly pronounced as a wonderful achievement for the local community and ‘Made in Italy’ concept in general,’ he added.

Original Article