Azzura Marine’s Expansion Accelerated - July 2008

On Friday Azzura Marine announced it had concluded an agreement with Sensation Yachts to acquire its business assets and take over its facility at 50 Fitzroy Street, Carrington, New South Wales.

This agreement enables Azzura Marine to continue using the facility for its existing refit and repair projects and allows the group to commence building superyachts in Newcastle, earlier than anticipated.

Principal of Azzura Marine, Iain Murray AM, said he was excited at the prospect of being able to bring forward plans to further expand the group’s marine interests and to make the most of the present market momentum.

“Securing the site will allow Azzura Marine to complete our current refit and repair works but also aggressively pursue other opportunities that would not have been possible without the availability of this type of facility and infrastructure,” Mr Murray said.

“The foundation of this agreement provides a positive step for renewed activity on the site and will generate an immediate influx of work, with employment in the short term expected to reach over 100 staff under the direction of Azzura Marine.”

The global market demand for the construction and refit/repair of superyachts has flourished over the recent years however growth of this market in Australia has been restricted by the lack of suitable shipyards. Azzura Marine expects to position this precinct as an internationally recognisable hub for superyachts in Australia.

The site has an impressive list of characteristics including deep water access, 240m of wharf space, a 900-tonne lifting capacity, a large 120x45 metre single span construction hall and associated workshops, all of which will allow for unique client offerings and experiences.

Azzura Marine has embarked on this initiative in addition to fulfilling its current obligations in redeveloping the former State Dockyard at Dyke Point, also in Newcastle.

Azzura Marine currently has two other boat building facilities in Australia producing a range of high quality motor and sailing yachts including the Azzura Yacht, Marten Yacht and Sydney Yacht brands.

Cambria II Available for Sale - June 2008

Azzura Marine is proud to represent the sale of the Azzura Classic 100,Cambria II, through its brokerage department.

She is presented for sale with an extremely comprehensive, "no expense spared" specification, including her carefully chosen antique finishes and furniture, which truly embrace the spirit of this award winning yacht. Constructed to MCA standards and USL compliant, she has been chartered exclusively to VIP clients and events by her current owner. She presents an excellent opportunity to take advantage of her future charter revenue potential.

For further information or to receive a comprehensive inventory, please contact David McQueen or Gillian Russell on brokerage@azzuramarine.com.

Azzura Yachts Celebrates Design Award - December 2007

Azzura Yachts has recently gained valuable recognition by being awarded one of the industry's most prestigious honours for the design of its classic 100' motor yacht, Cambria II. Receiving this accolade for "Best Power 23m - 32m" at the International Superyacht Society Design Awards represents the exceptional and unique nature of a motor yacht designed and built to reflect the golden era of yachting.

While Azzura is proud to receive the acknowledgement for its involvement in the design of Cambria II, this tribute should be shared with her owner who actively drove the concept and style of his yacht; Thomas Hamel, on creating her interior design; and the Azzura Marine team for the meticulous attention to detail and fine craftsmanship demonstrated in the construction of this exceptional yacht.

Earlier in the year Azzura Marine was also rewarded with Cambria II being short-listed as a finalist in the World Superyacht Awards for Semi-Displacement Yachts of 30m - 40m. Cambria II was subsequently featured at this year's Ocean Magazine Ball where Lance Cushion, President of the International Superyacht Society presented the award to Iain Murray from Azzura Marine and John David, the owner of Cambria II.

Cambria II was a true labour of love for all who were involved with her design and construction. These awards not only reinforce the capabilities of Azzura's world class design capabilities, tradespeople and facilities, but also highlight Azzura Yachts as one of the world's major custom yacht brands.

Loki Takes Europe By Storm - September 2007

Following a successful summer of sailing in Australia, Azzura Yachts’
Reichel/Pugh 60’ – ‘Loki’ was shipped over to Europe to take part in a number of world renowned Rolex regattas.

First stop was the Rolex Fastnet Race beginning in Cowes. This 2007 race certainly marked a historic event whereby over three quarters of the fleet retired due to damaging conditions. Loki and her crew however persevered and finished with a credible 3rd overall in their division, a solid performance to mark the beginning of their European campaign.

Next stop was the Maxi worlds in Porto Cervo. The finish to the event will certainly be one to go down in history. Having been asked by the race committee to step out of the mini maxi division to the maxi division, Loki and her crew were ready to take on boats of more than double her size. In a thrilling conclusion to the 2007 Rolex Maxi Worlds which saw Loki being sailed off the course by a competitor almost twice her size, Loki took out second place overall. Not only was Loki extremely competitive in the event they finished with an incredible result which they should be extremely proud of.

Congratulations to Stephen Ainsworth and the crew from Loki for an extraordinary effort over these last two events.

Azzura 33 - Sydney Harbour in Style - Sydney International Boat Show 2007 - July 2007

Cambria II – Shortlisted for a World Superyacht Award – January 2007

The Azzura Classic 100, ‘Cambria II’ has been shortlisted as one of the six finalists for the prestigious World Superyacht Award in the Semi-Displacement Yachts of 30m to 40m LOA category. This traditional style Motor Yacht is an exquisite vessel which has captured the eye of many designers, boat owners and members of the general public.

The World Superyacht Awards have been created as a means of acknowledging the extraordinary talent and innovation that goes into designing, engineering and constructing some of the world’s most exceptional yachts.

The recognition and interest in Cambria II since its launching at the 2006 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show has not only reinforced the capabilities of Azzura Marine’s world class trades people and facilities but also highlights Azzura Yachts as one of Australasia’s major custom yacht brands. The shortlisting of Cambria II for a World Superyacht Award Cambria II has provided Azzura Marine with the exceptional opportunity to showcase our craftsmanship to the world.

The winner of the awards will be presented at a Gala Evening in the palatial surrounding of the Fondazione Cini in Venice on the 27th April 2007.

New Launch – New Innovation – December 2006

Azzura Yachts has launched its latest custom motor yacht, a Warwick 76ft Sportfisherman 'Gramac V'.

Purpose-designed for deep-sea fishing, this vessel will offer a unique sporting experience and will equally be suited to entertaining.

Inspired by her owner, onboard features include an internal lift servicing three floors, an exterior aquatic lift and an amphibious marine tender for both land and water use.

Azzura Yachts Prepare for Upcoming Summer of Ocean Racing – December 2006

Following their win in the Savills Short Ocean racing championship in November, the crew on board Loki are once again in high spirits from their December victory in IRC Division 1 of the pre-Hobart Rolex Trophy Rating Series.

With the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race fast approaching, Loki will spend the final week before the Boxing Day start testing a new sail wardrobe and practicing safety drills.

Placing second in Division 0 was the team from Wild Joe who are also in final preparation for some exciting ocean racing in the upcoming Pittwater Coffs race.

In-House Commissioning Process Accelerated – November 2006

The recent addition of a cooling tower, accompanied by a water supply tower has enabled the testing of powered equipment to commence whilst still within the factory.

The water supply tower is self sufficient in feeding the vessel with enough water to cool all equipment while factory testing. When run in conjunction with the cooling tower, this technology allows the vessel’s main engines to run for the full duration of testing as well as run the generators and remainder of equipment for as long as required.

The utilization of these towers has enabled efficiencies in testing main equipment in a controlled factory environment. This time-saving method has proven to be a huge advantage for all involved as it allows staff, contractors and owners to witness the equipment in operation prior to the vessel being launched.

Azzura Yachts Achieves Accolades at Hahn Premium Race Week – August 2006

Azzura Yachts has achieved further accolades for its custom sailing yachts when both Wild Joe and Loki placed 1st and 2nd respectively in the big boat class division at the 2006 Hahn Premium Race Week at Hamilton Island.

With four race victories a piece, Wild Joe’s final two point advantage over Loki provided for an exciting regatta for both crews and spectators alike.

Whilst Wild Joe beat Loki on corrected handicap to win the series overall, Loki finished the regatta with the faster corrected course time average.

The December Canon Big Boat Series will be the next opportunity for these two champion teams to once again come head to head in competition.

The Alluring Allegro – May 2006

The Warwick 67’ sailing yacht ‘Allegro’ is the newest custom yacht to be welcomed into the Azzura Yacht’s family. Allegro was designed and built to be a fast point-to-point yacht and be used for luxury charter as well as family cruising.

Allegro’s deck layout and equipment ensures the ease of short-handed cruising, while below deck she offers lavish five star appointments. In terms of her onboard security and control systems, Allegro offers the latest in advanced technology.

With meticulous attention given to detail, Allegro delivers a fine example of the custom class for which Azzura Yachts has become renown. Allegro is destined to fulfill the dreams and desires of her owner and future charterers.

Cambria II Stars At The 2006 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show - 22 May 2006

Unlike any other vessel at this year's SCIBS Cambria II turned heads and gained the highest accolades from some of the industries most prestigious VIP’s.

"The finest craftsmanship ever seen", "stunning detail", "built true to its era" were just some of the compliments over the 4 day event.

A new feature this year was the marque displaying some examples or other fine custom projects built by Azzura Yachts including Admirals Cup winning yacht Wild Joe and Sydney to Hobart entrant Loki, along side cruising yacht Bliss and the fabulous 100ft Oscar.

Cambria II Launched - 7 May 2006

On a perfect autumn morning in Queensland, Cambria II, built by Azzura Yachts was proudly launched at the Gold Coast City Marina on Sunday 07 May 2006. Taking 22 months to build this launch was an exciting day for her owner.

Wild Joe Wins Another Major Trophy – April 2006

The Wild Joe crew proved the ‘pocket rocket’ is still Australia’s best maxi chaser when they retained the Sydney Gold Coast race line honours silver medal. This performance was further enhanced on the official race clock with Wild Joe logging the fastest overall corrected handicap to be named as the provisional winner.

Wild Joe Steals more Silverware in the Silver Anniversary Pittwater to Coffs Race – January 2006

In a thrilling conclusion to the 2006 Pittwater to Coffs Race, Wild Joe finished a close second on line honours to take out the first prize in IRC Division A and IRC overall. Wild Joe still holds the race record for the Pittwater to Coffs race from its former days as Wild Oates IX.

Hamilton Island Race Week - August 2005

Azzura Yachts fleet stars at Hamilton Island Race week.  For updates on race results and highlights click here.

'Loki' Off to a great start - August 2005

After a brief visit in Sydney, ‘Loki’ joined the annual winter migration of race yachts to the Whitsunday’s.  Serving as an important evaluation trial, ‘Loki’ impressed her crew with an IRC class win in the opening race of the 2005 International Hog’s Breath Race Week.  Consistent results over the duration of the regatta saw ’Loki’ finish second place in the IRC class, just one point behind series winner ‘Wild Joe’.

Her outstanding performance not only has the competition nervous, but also suggests that with a little more crew time spent on board, she looks set to become a serious contender to win the 2005 Rolex Sydney to Hobart Race.

The next event on her calendar is the2005 Hahn Premium Race Week held at Hamilton Island.

Azzura Yachts Turns 5 - 1 August 2005

A huge milestone was achieved this week with Azzura Yachts turning 5. Starting with 9 employees in 2000, through steady growth over the years, Azzura Yachts now employees approximately 80 full time staff and engages several companies within the marine precinct to compliment its high quality, state of the art operation in its own factory.

Azzura Yachts Launches 60' Racing Yacht 'Loki' - July 2005

The latest Reichel-Plugh designed yacht to be built by Azzura Yachts was launched this week, much to the delight of her owner, keen yachtsman Stephen Ainsworth. Loki will be seen at major race events around the world starting with Hamilton Island later this year.

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Azzura Yachts Wins Prestigious Queensland State Government Award

Azzura Yachts recevied the prestigious Award for Excellance in Skills and Organisational Capabilities Development 2005 from Queensland State Government at a formal breakfast during the 2005 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. This award was in recognition of Azzura's development and committment to training and education of apprentices within the Marine Industry.

Azzura Yachts Shines at 2005 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show

Azzura Yachts stood out as we showcased the 60ft luxury sailing yacht "Bliss" at this years boat show. Comments from those who were fortunate enough to view her in detail included - fantastic, wonderful, impressive, sensational, stunning, great to see Australia can do this quality, finishes were brilliant, lighting is lovely, boat felt very safe and 1st class.

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Azzura Yachts Signs Contract to Build Custom 76ft Game Fishing Boat - May 2005

At the start of this years boat show, Azzura Yachts signed up a deal to build a custom 76ft Game Fishing Boat for a Melbourne based client. Construction is due to commence around August/September this year and will take approximately 16 months to complete.

Azzura Yachts at the 2005 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show

Thanks for the generosity of her owner "Bliss" the 60' luxury sailing yacht will be on display at the 2005 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

Viewing of "Bliss" will be by appointment only on the day.

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Azzura Launches new luxury 60’ cruising yacht – November 2004

The first of its kind from the Azzura Yachts yard, this luxury cruising yacht will head south to Sydney for several weeks prior to heading north to the Whitsunday Islands where it will be available for private charter in February 2005.

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Advanced computer cutting arrives as Azzura Yachts

Azzura Yachts now has the capability of cutting 2D and 3D componentry and fitout to complement their in house design capability through the use of Rhino 3D modelling and AutoCAD. This advanced capability will allow Azzura Yachts to offer it's clients and designers the quality and accuracy offered by the use of this type of machine.

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Azzura Yachts launches it's latest vessel - November 2004

Azzura Yachts is proud to have launched it's latest project 'Bliss'. This 60' cruising yacht was designed by Scott Jutson and will be based at the fabulous Whitsunday Islands from February 2005

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AZZURA YACHTS SUPPORT BANDANA DAY - 29th October 2004

Azzura Yachts and staff got behind the national bandana day to support CANTEEN. CANTEEN is a fantastic organisation that focuses on raising funds for support and research for kids with cancer.

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Wild Oats returns home for new life - October 2004

Admirals Cup winner Wild Oats has returned to her place of birth at Azzura Yachts. Wild Oats will be re-fitted and renamed Wild Joe for racing in this years Sydney to Hobart with Azzura Yachts owner Iain Murray at the helm. The modifications included the addition of a bow sprit, reconfiguration of navigation station and redevelopment of the RAID (Retractable Auxiliary Integrated Drive)

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Premier Peter Beattie officially opens new Azzura Yachts facility - 24th September 2004


The Honourable Peter Beattie - Premier of Queensland and Minister for Trade offically opened the new Azzura Yachts facility at a VIP cocktail function hosted by Azzura Yachts owner Mr Iain Murray on Friday 24th September 2004. This gala event was attended by over 150 guests including both State and Local Government representatives along with Azzura Yachts suppliers and VIP customers. Guests were invited to tour the facility and take a close and personal look behind the scene's of this spectacular purpose built facility. A classical string quartette echoed beautifully atop of the famous Wild Oats to the delight of guests.

The Premier was more than impressed with the facility and the largest oven of it's type in Australia and delighted to open the facility. He was extremely grateful to Iain Murray, Paul Wrench and Azzura Yachts for blazing the trail for this growth industry within Queensland and indicated ongoing support from his government to grow both local and export markets.

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Racing/Cruiser commences construction – September 2004

A new 60’ Reichel Pugh designed racer/cruiser has commenced construction at the Azzura Yachts yard. This exciting high tech build project will take approximately 1 year to complete for its Sydney based owner and will be used internationally for both racing and cruising.

Azzura Yachts signs contract to build 97’ Classic Cruiser - August 2004

Construction began September 2004 on a new motor yacht at Azzura Yachts facility. This Azzura Yachts designed Classic Cruiser will take approximately 2 years to build for it’s Sydney based owner. This is the owner’s second Azzura motor yacht build, the previous being a 50’ version of the Azzura range.

This facility covers a total area of 3,848.2 sqm, consisting of a factory area, specialised work areas and offices. One of the facility’s main features is a 40m oven for the construction of high tech composites.

Azzura Marine Group was established by prominent sailor and businessman Iain Murray. Iain has combined the skills and passion of Azzura Yachts and Sydney Yachts to form Azzura Marine Group.

The companies within the group are lead by professional managers and supervisors, who employ only the best trades people available to the industry. Their comprehensive skills range from design, boat building, cabinet making and beyond.

Azzura Marine Group has a combined depth of knowledge and a wealth of experience that allows the group to challenge the most challenging constructions. All of our personnel are committed and dedicated to the ownership of the finest details and quality of each vessel built - whether it is a high performance production racing yacht, world class custom motor yacht, sailing yacht or a refit/repair at our proposed new marine precinct. Azzura Marine Group website www.azzuramarinegroup.com

The group facilities are world class and equipped with dedicated workshops, state-of-the-art equipment and premium services ensuring that the vessels constructed are of the highest quality and meet the requirement of each owner. Our ownership of your vessel is your guarantee.

The 60’ Canting Keeler Continues Her Winning Ways – January 2004

Following her impressive race winning portfolio, Wild Oats IX has gone on to win the 2004 Pittwater to Coffs Race on handicap.

International Acclaim for Azzura Yacht’s Wild Oats IX – July 2003

‘Wild Oats’ stormed home in the final race to join their team yacht ‘Aftershock’ in being declared the winners of the 2003 Admiral’s Cup.

Bob Oatley, owner of the Reichel/Pugh designed 18.57m Wild Oats, was considered to have taken on an expensive gamble with innovative technology. Wild Oats become a trailblazer when she was launched into the Coomera River as the first maxi chaser in the World to be fitted with the revolutionary canting keel and twin foil technology.

Wild Oats IX Sets New Race Record in the Pittwater to Coffs Race – January 2003

Making her Pittwater to Coffs racing debut, Bob Oatley’s Reichel/Pugh canting keel 60 footer ‘Wild Oats IX’, surfed in a howling tail wind to a line honour win in the 226 nautical mile Pittwater to Coffs Race. Smashing the race record by almost two and a half hours, Wild Oats made history be setting a new race record of 18hrs 29mins 14sec.

Wild Oats Success in Racing Debut – August 2002

The world’s first canting ballast twin foil 60 footer is proving a force to be reckoned with. Wild Oats IX took the yachting fraternity by storm by winning the Big Boat series in the 2002 Hahn Premium Race Week at Hamilton Island.