As part of its international marketing strategy, which is currently focused on superyachts, German yacht builder Blohm + Voss (B+V) is looking to develop a network of overseas agents.

The company started moving in this direction in the Middle East over the past few years, where a relationship with Art Marine has seen B+V sharing space on their stand at shows in the region, including Dubai and Qatar.

“We have worked with Art Marine for a while, but there is no formal agreement at present – although that may come,” B+V managing director Patrick Coote told IBI. “We would look to have such links not only in the Middle East but also in the US, Russia and Asia.”

In respect to the BV80 project, after 12 months of detailed engineering work the keel was laid in December 2015 and since then significant progress has been made. The first three hull sections are almost complete, the main components have been ordered, and the design by Eidsgaard is starting to take shape.

“There has been growing interest in the project ever since the initial design was unveiled at the Monaco Yacht Show,” B+V said in a press statement. “The timeless design, coupled with the exceptional quality that Blohm + Voss is renowned for, makes the BV80 an extremely appealing proposition in a market where there is currently strong demand for large new-build projects.”

It is known that one Letter of Intent has been signed and IBI understands that negotiations are continuing.

B+V has also taken significant steps throughout the development phase to ensure a highly competitive price and fast delivery. The completion of these hull sections has reduced the delivery time to just 30 months from the date of contract, meaning that she can be available for delivery in 2018 with a fully custom interior.

Fred van Beers, Blohm + Voss CEO, said: “It’s fantastic to see this stunning yacht beginning to take shape. With delivery available in 2018, the BV80 represents a unique opportunity in today’s market with the highest levels of build quality, short lead time, keen pricing and comprehensive warranty.”

By David Robinson