Echo Yachts Signs 56m Successor to Charley

The newbuild contract has been signed with an international client, and follows closely after Echo Yachts announced two exciting new concepts with Sorgiovanni Design and Bannenberg & Rowell respectively.

The success of Charley and the reputation that Echo Yachts has built over the years can be seen in the fact that this particular project was signed even before any renderings were drawn up. Having seen the previous work of Echo in Charley and White Rabbit, the new Owner was confident enough to close the deal after General Arrangements were confirmed.

The most important developments on Echo Yachts’ previous catamaran are the change from FRP composite to aluminium and the increased length, both affording the new project more efficiency. At 56m, the new Echo Yachts project is larger than the 46m Charley, though much of the design is will be similar. The new project will benefit from a wide beam of 14.81m, featuring an aft tender lift and an all-aluminium structure with a faired and painted finish.

Sydney-based One2Three Naval Architects, who were responsible for Echo Yachts’ 84m trimaran White Rabbit, have lent their expertise to ensure that the 56m catamaran lives up to the high engineering standards of an Echo Yacht. The custom designed and hydrodynamically efficient aluminium hull has a longer waterline length, which enables reduced installed kW engine power to increase fuel efficiency while still extending the range.

In tune with the market shift towards explorer vessels in recent years, the Echo Yachts project has been designed with adventure in mind and is ideal for either standalone cruises to remote regions or as a support vessel for a larger superyacht.

Chris Blackwell, Sales & Marketing Manager of Echo Yachts, expressed his enthusiasm with the signing of yet another efficient project. “Added to the excitement of this new vessel,” said Blackwell, “we are really pleased it fits in nicely with Echo’s ongoing commitment to creating world-class ‘eco-efficient’ vessels here in Western Australia. It is great to see overseas buyers choosing our premium shipbuilding quality and service, underpinned by our competitive pricing and the low Australian Dollar.”

It is true that the last few months has seen an opportunity open up in Australia for high-quality superyacht projects to be built at a more than competitive price. Australia’s strong shipbuilding history and its advantages in the aluminium trade make it an attractive proposition for new-build projects, and Echo Yachts is a brand that has risen through the ranks in recent years. Owner Mark Stothard is pleased with the evolution. “My team and I are very appreciative and proud that our clients have entrusted Echo Yachts for the custom design and construction of their new Yacht Support Vessel for a number of reasons, including our focus on client relations and satisfaction, plus our proven track-record of delivering very innovative, high quality, efficient and stable vessels for any sea condition.”

While things certainly look very positive for Echo Yachts going into the future, a similar optimism is growing more generally in Australia and the South Pacific region. A recent influx in migration to Australia has been noted, owing much to the reputation of its shipyards as well as the beauty of the destination.