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Order signed for largest Sanlorenzo explorer yacht to date

EKKA Yachts has announced the sale of the first unit in Sanlorenzo 's new 60-metre-plus series, the 1150EXP. The superyacht will be available for charter once delivered.

Commissioned by an experienced Greek owner and previous client of the shipyard, this marks the largest explorer yacht to be ordered from the shipyard to date. The 1150EXP has been designed by Zuccon International Project and will have "privacy features never found before on a Sanlorenzo superyacht".

Accommodation will be across six to seven cabins, not including a "master residence" that spans the upper two decks. There will be further quarters for 14-15 crew. The entire main deck will be dedicated to indoor-outdoor entertainment and formal dining.

Meanwhile, the full-scale beach club has been designed with opening terraces and a spa, illuminated by a glass-bottomed pool on the deck above. Other highlights include a touch-and-go helipad, an elevator serving four out of five decks and capacity for a 10-metre chase boat and 7.5-metre main tender.

"We are thrilled to have secured such an important order for Sanlorenzo, which marks our biggest new-build to date and Sanlorenzo’s biggest explorer yacht order ever," said EKKA Yachts managing director Dimitris Kyriazakos. "We are grateful to the commissioning owner for having entrusted our brokerage services for the second time, and for demonstrating vision and determination to embark on this project after months of commercial and technical negotiations with the builder.”

The project will be managed by EKKA Yachts and the owner’s team. This is EKKA Yachts’ fourth metal superyacht order with Sanlorenzo in the last three years.

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The Yachtsman Report

40-year anniversary.

EKKA Yachts celebrates four decades of yachting successes and adventures.

The EKKA story begins in 1978 with a single Bertram boat, purchased by George Kyriazakos, a young entrepreneur who was passionate about the sea and yachting.

In the 1980s, yachting in Greece was an almost novel affair. The main Attica marinas did not exist, and motor yacht buyers were primarily hobbyists who enjoyed sailing, either on their own or with minimal crew.

It all starts with an idea and lots of passion. In EKKA Yachts' case it was on a Bertram.

With keen insight, George Kyriazakos seized the opportunity to “invent” the boating industry from scratch. The original idea was to import slow boats into Greece at a time of fuel shortages – this became the spark that ignited the subsequent vision. George embarked upon a new adventure that was destined to become a remarkable endeavour.

The EKKA brand pre-existed as a successful automotive spare-parts distributor, and stands for "Parts And Motors Corporation".

In 1981, he started off on a venture with Grand Banks. During the same year and following a series of coincidental events, persistent overtures and many negotiations, George met the Ferretti brother in Bologna and convinced them to have EKKA Yachts become their first ever dealer.

First steps with Grand Banks and meeting the Ferretti brothers

EKKA Yachts played a crucial role in solidifying Ferretti’s reputation for both sailing and motor yachts, and in upholding and continuing the shipyard's legacy. In 1984, EKKA began its collaboration with Kostas Themelis, who initially oversaw the Ferretti and Grand Soleil sailing yachts and eventually also motor yachts. 

Ferretti's strategic acquisition of new brands significantly contributed to the Ferretti Group expansion within Greece. The Greek market was the ideal environment for Ferretti to establish its prominence in the production boat segment of the market. EKKA Yachts, earning prestigious titles such as the Best European Dealer and Best Dealer in the World Awards,  helped the brand flourish and evolve. EKKA Yachts, already enjoying success with the Grand Banks and Grand Soleil sailing boats, and later Hatteras, focused on promoting Ferretti, achieving remarkable accomplishments in sales. 

Business growth with the Ferretti brothers, Norberto and Alessandro

From even its earliest days, the company was committed to brand loyalty and to providing a comprehensive, client-oriented approach. “Right from the beginning, EKKA Yachts invested in customer service and after-sales service”, says Kyriazakos. “EKKA was also the first yacht dealer in Greece to clearly and unequivocally state that it promoted and supported a specific brand.” EKKA Yachts were, in essence, the first yacht dealers to distinguish themselves from brokers who merely facilitated transactions and to offer all-inclusive services to an ever-growing clientele.

EKKA’s expansion of its business during the late 80s and 90s brought on more significant partnerships, bringing on brands like Grand Soleil and the American Hatteras sport fishing yachts. In 1990, the company opened its offices in the Alimos area, establishing a comprehensive structure for after-sales service and marketing. 

Opening of the Alimos office in presence of the late Alessandro Ferretti

At a time when yachts were often unreliable, the company’s strong partnership with Ferretti, and its shared goals and personal relationship with Norberto Ferretti, laid the foundation for exemplary, award-winning service, ensuring absolute client' satisfaction.

The EKKA sales team, led by George Kyriazakos and Kostas Themelis, expanded with the addition of Costis Pontifex as partner in 1998, when the Ferretti Group acquired Pershing; it soon brought the renowned Riva and Bertram brands aboard. The growth of the Ferretti Group and the innovations of these decades served as a powerful marketing tool, enabling EKKA’s continued expansion. The collaboration between Norberto Ferretti and Studio Zuccon was highly successful, helping the shipyard achieve new heights and driving the evolution of the model range technologically and aesthetically. By 2001, the company expanded to Cyprus with EKKA Yachts Cyprus Limited and its portfolio grew, with brands like Apreamare, Mochi Craft, Custom Line and Itama, as well as CRN, which expanded the EKKA size range to over 60 metres. This period marked significant growth for the company, as it earned numerous awards while promoting its brands in Greece. EKKA Yachts distinguished itself as one of the Ferretti Group top three dealers on the international stage.

EKKA Yachts contributed significantly in developing the market for production power boats in the 2000s. Pictured above, Dimitris Kyriazakos with Pershing founder Tilli Antonelli. Below, aerial shot of EKKA Yachts' display at the 2008 Exclusive Yachting boat-show in Athens.

In 2010, Dimitris Kyriazakos became Managing Director, with a focus on diversifying into new services and products, such the international expansion of a yacht brokerage department and the addition of Williams Performance Tenders. In George Kyriazakos’ words, Dimitris’ “principles of honesty, diligence, reliability, professionalism and accountability are part and parcel of the character he has imparted to everyone in the company.”

Additionally, in 2011, the beginnings of the EKKA chartering branch were established and in 2013 the company moved to its Syngrou Avenue premises, reinstating Grand Soleil and Tofinou and delivering Jade, the notable 60-metre CRN yacht. The expansion continued with EKKA VE Yachts in Cyprus and the Riva Private Deck in Mykonos in 2016, with the company also becoming the exclusive dealer for Pardo Yachts.

The offices on Syngrou Avenue, where the company has been operating its main office from for the past 12 years

The EKKA Yachts Chartering Department initially operated with three yachts used as day-cruisers in Mykonos. Over the next 13 years, the fleet significantly expanded to include vessels from 20 to 50 metres initially in Greek waters and in 2020, launching the first yacht outside Greece. In 2024, the EKKA fleet cruises in key markets including France, Italy, the UAE and the Indian Ocean.

“A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for." – John A. Shedd"

According to Myrto Kyriazakou, “This has been an exciting journey from a small fleet on a Greek island, to a globally recognized chartering department with a strong presence in the international yachting community.”

EKKA yachts has over the years established numerous offsite events and seasonal offices to celebrate and service its growing clientele. Pictured above, the Riva Private deck in Psarou Bay established in 2016.

The chartering department has established an impressive track record and annual growth, developing a loyal clientele and fostering strong relationships with yacht owners. It boasts an international presence, participating in prestigious shows, such as the Antigua Charter Yacht Show, the Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association Show (MYBA), and the Mediterranean Yacht Show (MEDYS). The department's industry recognition is further evidenced by its affiliations with leading associations, including MYBA, the Charter Yacht Brokers Association in the US (CYBA), and the European Committee for Professional Yachting (ECPY).

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In 2021, EKKA moved into another new and exhilarating era via a notable achievement. The company became brand representatives for the Sanlorenzo Yachts Division and Bluegame Yachts in Greece, which involved major orders for Sanlorenzo superyachts, as well as multiple awards for sales performance.

In May 2024 EKKA inaugurates the Sanlorenzo Lounge located within the newly developed Astir Marina in Vouliagmeni. Designed by Studio Lissoni and Partners in Milan, the Sanlorenzo Lounge epitomizes elegance and refinement, perfectly reflecting Sanlorenzo’s corporate identity.

The inauguration of the remarkable Sanlorenzo Lounge at Astir Marina is a showcase for the company's commitment to excellence and to cultivating enduring relationships with the brands it represents and its clientele.

Managing Director Dimitris Kyriazakos describes the vision behind EKKA Yachts and its decision to create an understated yet elegant new home for Sanlorenzo in Greece: “In a time when almost everything is turning digital, we decided to return to the basics and bring you what reflects the aesthetics and essence that lie at the core of our identity: representing the globe’s best builders and delivering the yachting experience in a truly personal manner to people who aspire to become yachtsmen, whether for a week or a lifetime.”

The cornerstone of the EKKA success story lies in a profound passion for the sea, coupled with an unwavering dedication to customer service, integrity, and professionalism. As EKKA embarks on its fifth decade, it continues to focus on innovation, to embody the values that have always defined its identity and to provide an unparalleled yachting experience.

Highlights of EKKA Yachts' Journey:

Topics: ferretti , dealership , yacht charters , yachts for sale , superyachts , yachtshow , yachting , sanlorenzoyacht

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Captain Petros takes EKKA Yachts to the Next Level in Sustainable Yachting

About 8 million tons of plastic are dumped into the world’s oceans every year. Those numbers are expected to rise. Our beautiful marine life and its natural habitats are constantly in danger from absorbing harmful toxins and chemicals through water pollution. In order to raise awareness on environmental issues and provide alternatives for eco-friendly yachting, EKKA Yachts enlisted the help of  Captain Petros , a loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta Caretta), to guide the company and the yachting industry toward sustainable practices. 

Captain Petros  –  as a sea turtle  –  has witnessed firsthand the harmful effects of plastic and chemical pollution on marine life; he provided EKKA Yachts with valuable advice to help him protect his beautiful home which he shares with humans. 

“Sea turtles are fellow voyagers in the Mediterranean. We, too, have a strong urge to travel and then return to the comfort of our home. For a large population of us sea turtles, the Greek coast is our chosen home; our families return each year to start a new life cycle,”  says Captain Petros.  “Sea turtles have a long lifespan (up to 50 years!), and during our lifetime, we noticed that humans are engaging in practices that disrupt our natural marine environment.”

Thanks to Captain Petros’ consultation,  EKKA Yachts  can now share its  guide –  which was formulated by the scientific input of  HELMEPA, Hellenic Marine Environment Protection Association  – with owners, charter guests, and crew to provide simple, sustainable solutions that have a large impact on our marine environment.

1. Be mindful of where you anchor. 

“ Anchoring on rocky, grassy, or coral bottoms may destroy surrounding marine life and their homes, especially sea sponges, sea urchins, starfish, crabs, and fish, whom I consider great friends,”  says Captain Petros. 

Posidonia meadows – a seagrass ecosystem often referred to as “The lungs of the Mediterranean”- are now at risk due to human activity. To avoid further destruction of Posidonia beds and coral bottoms,  Captain Petros advises anchoring in designated areas, mooring fields, or sandy bottoms. 

2. Use environmentally friendly cleaners and detergents.

Boat maintenance may impact the aquatic environment if harmful chemicals seep into the ocean during cleanings or upkeep. Products that contain chlorine, ammonia, phosphates, potassium hydroxide, and solvents damage marine life or create nutrient imbalances leading to algal blooms, which are harmful to aquatic environments.

Captain Petros asks that the crew please use non-toxic cleaning products and rinse yachts with fresh water . Better yet, apply boat wax every year to avoid the accumulation of contaminants and, therefore, less cleaning altogether. Crew should also stock the yacht with environmentally-friendly toiletries, cosmetics, cleaning products, and sunscreens to prevent further harm to marine environments.

3. Eco-friendly practices to control underwater noise.

“ As a human, you may not hear it — but the noise and vibrations from human activities can travel long distances underwater. This can be dangerous for sea turtles as it prevents us from hearing our predators or communicating with our family,”  says Captain Petros.

Conducting regular maintenance or using vibration-isolating machinery will help minimize noise pollution from yachts . Please be especially cautious when sailing into marine protected areas, urges Captain Petros. 

4. Apply non-toxic coating or antifouling methods to protect the yacht and the environment.

Yacht hulls accumulate microorganisms, plants, and algae in a process known as biofouling. 

So humans use antifouling chemicals to prevent the attachment of unwanted marine organisms onto the hull.

Captain Petros wants yachtsmen to know that antifouling coatings may leak chemicals into the water that could harm marine life. To avoid this,  apply a non-toxic coating and practice safe antifouling methods that use ultrasonic waves, enzymes, or silicone liquids to protect both the yacht and the environment.

5. Avoid single-use plastics, food packaging, and plastic bags during charters.

“ Unfortunately, I ’ ve lost many friends who accidentally consumed plastic waste — plastic bags, water bottles, balloons, and straws all look like food to us. And we don’t know the difference until it ’ s too late”  explains Captain Petros. 

Minimize waste by a voiding single-use plastics, food packaging, and plastic bags during yacht charters.  Captain Petros urges yacht crews and guests to s wap plastic straws and stirrers for metal ones, to use a personal water bottle, or to use biodegradable tote bags.

6. Grind organic waste into smaller parts before disposing of it.

Food and organic waste are non-toxic and degrade in the ocean. However, the waste must be small enough to be absorbed and not cause pollution.  Captain Petros urges seamen to grind organic waste into smaller parts before disposing of it.  According to the international convention for the preventions of pollution, Marpol Annex V, food waste must be crushed into 25-millimeter pieces or smaller before disposal — at least 3 nautical miles away from the shore or 12 nautical miles if in a special area.

Commit to year-round sustainability

EKKA Yachts is committed to raising awareness on environmental issues and providing alternatives for eco-friendly yachting. The company collaborates with conservation organizations and actively supports  ARCHELON , a protection society dedicated to preserving sea turtles in Greece. Additionally, the Ekka team is increasing its environmental commitment by pledging to donate 10% of the annual Charter Management income to environmental organizations.

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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