It’s a superyacht tender designed and built right here in Mallorca that takes this month’s front cover. Built by the Palma-based BMComposites, a company known internationally for its expertise with composite structures and component solutions for superyachts, this is the LINX tender – a small cat set to take a big bite out of the custom tender market.
“It’s a 30ft custom-built catamaran that utilises cutting-edge engineering and an advanced foil system to deliver enhanced stability, reduced drag, and improved efficiency, all leading to superior performance and cost savings,” begins Mark Branagh, CEO of BMComposites. “For almost 20 years, we’ve specialised in tailor-made solutions and the LINX craft truly benefit from all of our design, engineering and build expertise.”
LINX Tenders are designed by Bravo Yacht Design and the full-custom boats are ideal superyacht tenders and chase boats thanks to their versatility, performance capability and distinct design attributes. The company has delivered two of their LINX 30 models to date – one is in use as a tender to a 63m explorer superyacht, and the other serves as a luxurious dayboat for an owner in the UAE.
“What began as a superyacht tender concept has already evolved tenfold. A LINX is a fantastic option for use as a premium standalone craft for weekend excursions and water sports, and with each build offering new scope for custom features, anything is possible,” explains Branagh.
Most notable of the LINX 30’s attributes is the foil system, which provides exceptional longitudinal stability and reduces fuel consumption by up to 40%. We’ve had the privilege to step aboard and can fully attest to the brand’s claims – she’s a speedy showstopper that handles on water better than some of the finest motor cars do on tarmac.
The foil system comprises a main foil between the two hulls that induces lift, thereby reducing drag and improving seakeeping, and two smaller aft foils that provide downforce for stability. These foils work together to decrease the impact from waves and reduce pitching with significant improvement to fuel consumption.
The beach landing system is another standout feature. The bow door is electrically operated and provides easy access to the beach for smooth embarkation. This system also serves as a passerelle to the dock and helps facilitate easier access to the water for scuba diving and swimming.
The LINX 30 has Castoldi JET propulsion, permitting access to shallow waters, while features such as the joystick control and GPS anchoring ensure exceptional manoeuvrability and usability. The user-friendly operation is ideal for inexperienced boaters; but even seasoned skippers will appreciate the system’s ease of use.
A LINX can be equipped with Dynamic Positioning and a Smart Anchor system to ensure precise positioning and orientation, allowing the vessel to be moored in a GPS point, or around it, keeping the bow to the wind.
The LINX 30 has a range of 400 nautical miles at its 25-knot cruising speed, and a top speed of 42 knots. There’s an aft sun pad, electric WC, plug and play integrated dive equipment, sport fishing setup, seating for 12 and options for a dining area or cabin. “It’s all about versatility,” says Branagh. “These multifaceted functions are becoming more and more important when clients are choosing a superyacht tender.”
The hulls are manufactured through an infusion system, which not only ensures superior quality but also guarantees a safer and cleaner process compared to traditional lamination methods. More specifically, the infusion process employs the PRIME™ 37 low toxicity epoxy resin, which incorporates bio-based content. This enhances infusion speed and results in an air-free laminate. Gurit® Corecell™ structural foam, specifically designed for marine applications and renowned for its toughness and impact-resistant characteristics, is also part of the process.
Upon completion, a LINX tender receives a bespoke paint job, instead of having a gelcoat finish, which allows the client a broader range of colour options.
Many of the superyacht industry’s most iconic superyachts have turned to BMComposites for structural modifications and custom components, and they’re the go-to name amongst the racing yacht fleet for weight-saving systems and performance enhancements.
As well as the LINX brand, the wider BMComposites Group includes The Composite Store. The company is an authorised distributor for Gurit, and they are the exclusive dealer for Vandal Marine B.V. in Spain and the Balearics.
“We’re working on several enquiries from clients at the moment for variations of the LINX, including a LINX 40, a long-range 11m luxury limousine, and we also have a client who has expressed interest in going fully electric. We are really excited at the prospect of having more LINX tenders on the water,” comments Branagh.
And so are we!
www.bmcomposites.com
www.linxtenders.com
