motorboat

az yacht

Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Experience Scorpion Bay at Lake Pleasant, Arizona

Current Lake Conditions

Dive in to the Desert

Scorpion bay at lake pleasant regional park.

Hear that? The lake is calling. Scorpion Bay is Arizona’s premier floating playground, offering everything from daily pontoon and ski boat rentals to slips for harboring your yacht (or dinghy). Come for the fishing or come for the frolicking — either way, incredible mountain views, fantastic dining and world-class marina services await less than an hour out of Phoenix.

People Friendly Dog Friendly Adventure Friendly

Private Events

Plan your event on our private patio or reserve one (or both) of our opulent double decker private event boats complete with a Captain and Crew, bar and refrigerator, deluxe stereo system, full size bathroom and seating for 40 passengers. All aboard.

What’s your speed? Rent from our fleet of pontoon boats, sport boats, kayaks and water toys for a Full Day or Half Day.

Book a Rental

Floating Cabins

The only thing better than a day on the lake? A night on the lake. And our community of luxurious floating bungalows offer just that. These amazing abodes are available for multiple-night rentals. Get ready to check one spectacular item off your bucket list.

Even the Dock is a Destination

Things to do at scorpion bay, groceries & supplies.

Everything you need for a successful voyage: ice, snacks, beer, sunblock, fishing bait and more.

Scorpion Safari August 28

A night night hike to hunt for scorpions! Meet at Cottonwood Day Use Area. Registration required: [email protected] . *Maricopa County Parks Event.

A night night hike to hunt for scorpions! Meet at Cottonwood Day Use Area. Registration required.

Desert 101 Hike August 29

Hike and learn about native plants and animals. Location: Cottonwood Day Use Area. Registration required: . *Maricopa County Parks event.

Hike and learn about native plants and animals. Location: Cottonwood Day Use Area. Registration required.

Water Safety August 30

Tips to stay safe while out on the lake. Location: 10-lane boat ramp area. *Maricopa County Parks event.

Tips to stay safe while out on the lake. Location: 10-lane boat ramp area.

Food & Drink

Around here, everything floats and our restaurant is no exception. Scorpion Bay Grill offers amazing views, fresh fare and a full bar (so you can get the party started right). Dine in, take out, or tie up and grab something to go.

Become a Member

Landlubbers need not apply., boat storage.

We’re boat people. You’re boat people. It’s a match made in heaven. We offer wet and dry slips in a wide range of sizes and all come with exclusive membership perks.

Purchase a Boat

Why rent when you can own? Buy it here. Dock it here. Never leave.

We appreciate the overwhelming demand for floating cabins. Beginning September 1, floating cabins can be booked for 2025. We look forward to hosting you!

Rent the best Arizona luxury yacht charters of 2024

• Luxury Yacht Charters
• Arizona Luxury Yacht Charters

Top Arizona luxury yacht charters

Pink party barge

How to rent a luxury yacht charters in Arizona?

Find the perfect boat.

Enter your desired location and date to explore our fleet of luxury yacht charterss.

Select a captain

Choose to drive yourself or select a USCG licensed captain.

Book with ease

Connect with your boat owner and complete your booking online.

Enjoy your day on the water with friends and family!

Why Boatsetter?

As the global leader in peer-to-peer boat rentals, Boatsetter offers an easy, safe and accessible way to experience on-the-water adventure. With boat rentals in 600+ locations, finding a boat is easy and with the option to tap into the largest network of USCG licensed captains, boating experience is not required.

Get out on the water worry-free, knowing our insurance covers every boating trip

Choosing the right boat rental platform is essential to your peace of mind while on the water. That's why we've gone the extra mile to focus on safety through our exclusive partnership with GEICO Marine and BoatUS. As the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer rental, you are protected during all rentals with insurance coverage and on-water assistance through TowBoatUS.

Got questions?

Frequently asked questions

What makes Boatsetter different from other boat rental platforms?

What makes Boatsetter different is peace of mind. Boatsetter is the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer boat rental. We know choosing the right boat rental platform is essential to your experience while on the water. That's why we've gone the extra mile to focus on safety through our exclusive partnership with GEICO Marine and BoatUS. As the first and only boat rental marketplace to offer insurance on every peer-to-peer rental, you are protected during all rentals with insurance coverage and on-water assistance through TowBoatUS.

How to rent a boat on Boatsetter?

At Boatsetter, our mission is to make getting out on the water as easy as possible. With our intuitive booking system, you can rent a boat as soon as today. -First, you must determine your budget and the type of boat you want to rent. -Next, decide where you would like to boat and the kind of boat you would like to spend the day on. -Finally, determine if you will be needing a boat captain and reach out to the boat owner. That’s it! You’re officially on your way to a fantastic day out on the water.

How much does it cost to rent a boat?

The cost to rent a boat depends on whether you are renting for a half-day or a full day, the boat features and the boat size can impact your boat rental price. Rental prices can range from $200 to $1,000 plus depending on the boat rental itself and the length of time of the rental.

How many people can fit on the boat rental?

The number of people who can fit on boat rental largely depends on the boat’s size and how many life jackets are on board. Currently the coast guard allows a maximum of 10-12 people on a Boatsetter boat rental.

How much does it cost to rent a yacht?

The cost of renting a yacht depends on the boat’s size and the amount of time you’ll use the yacht. The onboard amenities and luxurious accommodations also dictate the price. You can contact our yacht specialists for a custom quote by visiting https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters .

How old do you have to be to rent a boat?

You must be 18 years old to rent a captained boat and 25 years old if you would like to rent a bareboat charter.

Do I need a boating license to rent a boat?

Boating license requirements vary from state to state. As a renter, you are responsible for understanding local state requirements.

Can you rent a yacht for the day?

Boatsetter allows you to rent a yacht for the day. Single-day yacht rentals are available for a select number of yachts. To chat with a yacht specialist please visit https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters .

Can you rent a yacht for the week?

Boatsetter allows its customers to rent a yacht for the week. Renting a yacht for a week gives you more access to the wide range of yachts available on our platform. You can either book a rental directly through the site or connect with one of our charter specialists to plan your trip here: https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters .

Can you rent a yacht for the month?

Booking a month-long yacht rental is a detailed and hands-off process when working with our team of yacht charter specialists. We tailor each yacht charter to our client's specific wants and needs. Our luxury yacht charter specialists can be reached at (954) 715-4114 or by visiting https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters .

How to rent a private yacht?

Renting a private yacht is a very detailed experience that caters to your exact needs while onboard one of our luxury yachts. To plan your private yacht rentals experience please visit https://www.boatsetter.com/luxury-yacht-charters .

How much does it cost to rent a pontoon boat?

The cost of renting a pontoon boat depends on the size, location, and rental time of the boat. Prices can range anywhere from $200 for a half-day rental or just under a $1,000 for longer rentals.

How much does it cost to charter a yacht?

The cost to charter a yacht varies depending on the boat size and the length of the charter. Prices typically range from less than $1,000 to $5,000 plus if you’re wanting to charter the yacht overnight.

How much does it cost to rent a boat for the day?

The cost of renting a boat for the day on average ranges from $200 to $1200. The cost to rent a boat varies depending on the size of the boat and the length of time that you will be using the boat.

How does the boat insurance work?

Boat insurance typically covers loss caused by things such as fire, sinking, storms, and collisions. The extent of the coverage varies depending on the policy.

Do I need my own insurance to rent a boat?

You do not need boat insurance when renting with Boatsetter. Coverage is provided under the Peer-to-Peer Boat Rental Policy, which is underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. The policy was written from the ground up as a stand-alone recreational boat rental insurance policy covering the period of time that the boat is being rented and is available for all non-commercially insured boats.

Does Boatsetter screen renters?

Yes. We use a system called Cognito to ensure that payment information matches the renter's identity. We also require renters taking out a captained boat to be at least 18 years old and on a bareboat to be at least 25 years old.

Is listing my boat on Boatsetter free?

Yes! Listing a boat is completely free. We only take a commission when your boat is rented. We only make money when you do!

What if I'm not comfortable having a renter drive my boat?

If you are not comfortable having a renter drive your boat, we have an expansive network of licensed and experienced captains. Once your boat is listed, you can filter through our network of captains and favorite captains in your area that you would like to operate your boat.

Top destinations for luxury yacht charters

Top luxury yacht charters reviews in Arizona

What a great experience! We had a ball

We had such a blast! Weston was so helpful and attentive! Would recommend to all! ❤️‍🔥

Captain was able to let us have endless fun while also keeping us safe! Directed us to the right spots time wise to...

Amazing experience! So much fun! I highly recommend it. Our captain Anson was great! All the girls in the Bach group...

Captains were friendly and fun! Had a blast on the Pink Taco!

Luxury Yacht Charters in Arizona

Browse by make.

Browse by experience

Own a boat?

Boatsetter lets you make money renting out your boat. Peace of mind and insurance is included in every rental, and you choose who rents your boat.

Ready to set sail?

Search and find the perfect boat.

Need assistance?

Get in touch with one of our success experts.

• Upcoming Events
• The Calendar Year
• The Calendar Month

• Honeymoon Cove at Lake Pleasant • ZOOM • Elks Lodge, 2320 S. Hardy Dr., Tempe, AZ • In front of Dillon's Restaurant • ZOOM • Edelweiss Biergarten, 2625 E Bell Rd. Phoenix AZ • Elks Lodge, 2320 S. Hardy Dr., Tempe, AZ • Lost Dutchman State Park • Dillon's Restaurant in front then to the boats! • In front of Dillon's Restaurant Pleasant Harbor Marina

The global authority in superyachting

• NEWSLETTERS
• Yachts Home
• The Superyacht Directory
• Yacht Reports
• Brokerage News
• The largest yachts in the world
• The Register
• Yacht Advice
• Yacht Design
• 12m to 24m yachts
• Monaco Yacht Show
• Builder Directory
• Designer Directory
• Interior Design Directory
• Naval Architect Directory
• Yachts for sale home
• Motor yachts
• Sailing yachts
• Explorer yachts
• Classic yachts
• Sale Broker Directory
• Charter Home
• Yachts for Charter
• Charter Destinations
• Charter Broker Directory
• Destinations Home
• Mediterranean
• South Pacific
• Rest of the World
• Boat Life Home
• Owners' Experiences
• Conservation and Philanthropy
• Interiors Suppliers
• Owners' Club
• Captains' Club
• BOAT Showcase
• Boat Presents
• Events Home
• World Superyacht Awards
• Superyacht Design Festival
• Design and Innovation Awards
• Young Designer of the Year Award
• Artistry and Craft Awards
• Explorer Yachts Summit
• Ocean Talks
• The Ocean Awards
• BOAT Connect
• Between the bays
• Golf Invitational
• BOATPro Home
• Superyacht Insight
• Global Order Book
• Premium Content
• Product Features
• Testimonials
• Pricing Plan
• Tenders & Equipment

10 facts about Lürssen's 180m superyacht Azzam

Related articles, superyacht directory.

Mario Pedol, founder of Nauta Design, gives Elaine Bunting the inside view on what it was like working on one of the world’s biggest private boats.

For six years from her launch in April 2013, the superyacht Azzam stood as the world’s largest private yacht. At 180m overall, Azzam was eclipsed only in 2019 when the research and expedition vessel REV Ocean was unveiled – and then by only three metres.

To Azzam’ s owner – and exterior designer Nauta Design – size was never the ultimate goal. Instead, the objective was to create a sleek vessel with elegant, timeless lines. Originally, the superyacht was designed to be 145 metres, but in the process of optimisation it grew, and to this day, Mario Pedol, founder of Nauta Design, takes it as a great compliment when admirers say the yacht looks smaller than her size.

Nauta, famed as the studio behind some of the most graceful sailing yachts afloat, was asked to create an exterior design for Azzam . “There was already a GA [general arrangement plan of the interior layout] but they were missing the exterior design, and that was quite something,” says Pedol.

Previously, Nauta’s largest project had been 80 metre Project Light , a modern yet graceful motor yacht that drew on sailing yacht aesthetics and blended the boundaries between outdoor and indoor living. Azzam was to be different in style and intent, but Nauta was brought in to shape how the vessel would look.

“It was a challenging brief,” says Pedol. “The ship – and actually it is a ship – was due to reach 30+ knots. So one of the fundamental characteristics was the speed, quite unusual for this size, and I wanted to give a sense of that speed even in the design. Fortunately enough, the requirement of interior volume was not excessive for the length, so it did allow us to design a balanced and elegant yacht with good proportions. I’ve had many comments that, from some distance, you can’t tell she is a 180 metre yacht.”

The yacht accommodates a large, open plan main saloon, accommodation for 36 guests and up to 80 crew, complex ‘dual mode’ engine systems and the fuel required, despite having a comparatively shallow draught of just 4.3 metres.

The challenging design and engineering accounted for around a third of the four-year construction schedule, while arriving at the long, lean shape was in itself a challenge, needing detailed Finite Element Analysis to give the required longitudinal strength.

The interior style remains a closely guarded secret, but heritage was of prime importance. French designer Christophe Leoni , who had previously worked on some of the owner’s residences and palaces, brought similar styles on board, including a wealth of wood furniture intricately veneered with mother of pearl marquetry.

One of Pedol’s most vivid memories is of Azzam ’s first sea trial, when the builders, designers and engineers could finally appreciate the results of their work and calculations. “We boarded at midnight because the Lürssen yard is 60 miles upriver from the sea, and we spent the night at three knots,” he says. “At 07:00 in the morning the project manager called me and said: ‘Come and see.’ It turned out we were already travelling at 32 knots, but it didn’t feel like it. The four waterjets created a very high wake, and [to see the yacht in action], it was a very emotional moment. It was just spectacular…”

10 facts about the superyacht Azzam

1. Azzam was never conceived as the world’s largest superyacht

The design was to be high speed and accommodate a certain interior plan and number of guests, but it was originally envisaged as 145 metres overall. As the need to optimise the structure, and create space for complex engine systems, fuel and tenders developed, together with an elegant exterior sporting a long, sweeping bow and swept back stern, the design grew by another 35 metres to become a recordbreaker.

2. It took more than 4,000 people to build

Rightly thought of as a gigayacht, Azzam took four years to build at German shipyard Lürssen and is said to have cost more than US$500m. Some 4,000 people were involved in the build over four years, clocking up six million man-hours before her launch in April 2013. The builders calculated that had the yacht been built by one person, work would have had to start in 1737BC.

3. Azzam is one of the world’s fastest superyachts

The brief for Azzam was for a vessel that could travel as fast as possible to the owner’s private island off the coast of Abu Dhabi, and she can cover the journey in a matter of hours at her top speed of 33 knots.

4. Azzam is as fast as a Navy frigate and uses similar technology

Top speed is produced by two gas turbine engines and 2 x MTU diesel engines driving two Wartsila axial flow Modular waterjets and two boosters. Altogether they produce 97,000hp and consume 13 tonnes of fuel per hour at top speed.

5. There is a long range mode as well as a ‘sprint mode’

Azzam also has two conventional diesel engines for longer distance voyaging and extended range. Two 9,000kW MTU engines produce a speed of 18 knots over long distances – she could comfortably cross the Atlantic without refuelling.

6. You can practice golf on board

Guests can stay fit by using the onboard gym, pool or practising their swing in a special ‘golf training room’.

7. Over 100 people can live aboard

Azzam accommodates up to 36 guests in supreme comfort, and to look after them there is a crew of between 70 and 80 people.

8. There is a huge open plan main saloon

The large open plan main saloon measures 29 metres long by 18 metres, with no pillars to obstruct the views inside, and it is flanked by full height windows for an expansive view outside. “It was quite a challenge to make this space with no pillars,” observes Mario Pedol, adding that the beams on the ceiling had to be 1 metre in width. Making sure the huge windows were fully stormproof meant the glass had to be specially engineered in Italy and it is over 7cm thick.

9. The interior boasts a wealth of mother of pearl

The furniture on board features intricate marquetry in mother of pearl – such a wealth that it equates to a year’s worth of worldwide production

10. The chandelier doesn’t rattle

A huge amount of work was put into ensuring that the noise and vibration levels of Azzam were very low, even at full speed. Designers and engineers had to ensure the chandelier in the main salon didn’t tinkle underway. “It was difficult to know in advance how this would behave, but it was tested in every possible way with sophisticated software and set up challenging targets and it was not a problem,” says Mario Pedol.

Sign up to BOAT Briefing email

Latest news, brokerage headlines and yacht exclusives, every weekday

By signing up for BOAT newsletters, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy .

More about this yacht

More stories, most popular, from our partners, sponsored listings.

Arizona Yacht Club

Racing Entry & Information

Register for Fall Series racing at Lake Pleasant and Tempe Town Lake.

Lake Pleasant Racing

DATES: September 28, October 5, October 19, November 16, and December 7

TIME: Races begin at 10:00 am

LP Notice of Race LP Sailing Instructions Lake Pleasant Chart L Additional Chart Information

Race Committee Assignments : Standing Committee

Tempe Town Lake Racing

DATES: September 22 / October 6, 20 & 27 /November 10 & 24 / December 1 & 15

TIME: Races begin at 2pm.

TTL Notice of Race TTL Sailing Instructions Tempe Town Lake Chart D Additional Chart Information

Additional Information & Resources

Video: Arizona Yacht Club Sailboat Racing – Lake Pleasant (3 min video)

Video: Lake Pleasant Mark Setting How to handle race marks and the anchoring system—doing it wrong will make a complete mess. Lake Captain David Newland and his son Josh prepared this video to show how it’s done.

Racing at Lake Pleasant (LP) Racing at Tempe Town Lake (TTL)

Lake Pleasant is less than one hour north of central Phoenix. If you’ve never been there, plan at least 90 minutes to get your boat ready, in the water, and to the starting line. Here are directions to Lake Pleasant.

Tempe Town Lake Marina is plunked down in the middle of metro Phoenix, bordered on the north by Route 202. Here’s more information and directions on how to get there .

NEW TO RACING? Visit this page for helpful information and racing tips.

CREW LIST Interested in crewing this season? Read more on our Crew Connection page .

Protest Protest or redress hearings will be conducted online. Hearing requests must be filed according to the Sailing Instructions using the US Sailing app, the form linked below, or by sending a simple qualifying email to the Racing Captain .

Hearing Request (Protest) Form (PDF)

2021-2024 Racing Rules of Sailing : Effective January 1, 2021 US Sailing Racing Rules of Sailing 2021-2024 Website

Video: Swanage Sailing Club – Sailboat Rescue and Safety Training Video (15 min) This video includes how to right a capsized boat: small, large, and catamarans; towing, retrieving a person in the water, dropping safety crew to help; acting fast to avert danger; and handling injuries.

Powerboat Operators for Tempe Town Lake & Lake Pleasant Boats To drive an AYC-owned boat for race committee duties at Lake Pleasant or an ASF-owned boat at Tempe Town Lake, you must be 18 or older and attend the current AYC-required training. Training is normally held in the Fall of each year, before the beginning of the racing season. List of Powerboat Operators

Arizona Yacht Club Fleets Arizona Yacht Club has several fleets, each active with many boats and good sailors. See the fleet list here.

Club Champion Race – Each April the top competitors from each qualifying fleet get to compete for the Punch Bowl trophy and the title of “Club Champion.” Read the details here.

Many racing documents are Adobe Reader pdf files . If you don’t have an Adobe Reader on your computer, you can get one free by clicking on the Acrobat logo.  It’s easy. Really.

Share this:

Arizona Multihull Fleet 42

2024 Sailing Calendar

• Compare Yacht

• Azimut World

Find a dealer

Charter club, news & events.

BETWEEN SKY AND SEA

The outdoor spaces are oases of relaxation, with sunbathing and lounging arrangements designed to enhance the all-encompassing experience of the sea.

TOY STORAGE FOR ALL-DAY PLAY

To offer a double garage that can accommodate both the tender and a jet ski, it was necessary to undertake a careful study of the use of space, optimizing each of the technical and living areas with an obsession to detail.

A LIBERATED WAY OF LIFE

A careful attention to the use of space on board led the designers to separate the galley on an intermediate deck, freeing up the bright main deck to expand the guest living and dining arrangements.

CONFIGURED FOR COMFORT

Guests are surprised by the unprecedented layout, which offers four comfortable cabins. It’s possible through the advanced triple pod propulsion system, which comes with a more compact engine room.

OUR ADVANCED TOOLKIT

TRIPLE POD PROPULSION COMBINED WITH CARBON FIBER

The adoption of triple Pod propulsion, combined with the optimization of the water lines and the extensive use of carbon fiber, reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 20 to 30%* in the main speed range.

*compared to vessels of the same weight and size with a traditional hard-chine hull and shaft line propulsion.

Azimut’s pioneering use of carbon fiber lamination goes beyond pure performance. The Carbon Tech Generation offers expanded volumes onboard, while maintaining excellent dynamic stability and perfect handling. Preserving the yacht’s low center of gravity, the carbon fiber was focused on the upper parts of the yacht, lightening the laminated components by up to 30% and reducing the natural roll momentum up to 15%.

Automated interceptors optimize the trim at every speed to maintain ideal hydrodynamics for performance and efficiency, at the same time negating any lateral imbalance due to sidewinds or weight distribution. With the pilot’s peace of mind assured, the driving experience is simpler and more enjoyable.

The integrated control system by Garmin has been customised to increase control potential: from engine data and alarms, to bilge and water discharge pumps, tank levels and engine room ventilation, right through to the sound system and the air conditioning units. The system can be accessed from both helm stations and remotely from a tablet.

The Joystick acts as an analog for the yacht, offering intuitive, one-handed control in every situation. When the yacht is stopped, moving the Joystick forward or back, side to side, and twisting clockwise or counter-clockwise activates the engines to mimic that motion. It’s the easiest way to pull off precise maneuvers.

When Joystick Driving is activated, the autopilot is immediately engaged. For easy course correction, the driver may briefly twist the Joystick for 1 degree in that direction or twist and hold for 10 degrees. The Autopilot keeps a forward course after the Joystick is released.

This yacht’s design and engineering meet the highest standards for production recreational vessels. Azimut Yachts issues a declaration of the premium materials, advanced technology and rigorous testing procedures.

S8 AT A GLANCE

• Length overall (incl. pulpit) 24,63 m (80’ 10’’)
• Beam max 5,55 m (18’ 3’’)
• Draft (incl. props at full load) 1,75 m (5’ 9’’)
• Displacement (at full load) 57,68 t (127161 lb)
• Building material GRP + Carbon Fibre
• Exterior designer Alberto Mancini
• Interior designer Francesco Guida
• Hull designer P.L. AUSONIO Naval Architecture & Azimut R&D Dept.
• Builder Azimut Yachts
• Keel Planing, deadrise 14° at the stern and 20° amidship
• Certifications CE A; NMMA
• Cabins 4 + 2 crew
• Berths 8 + 2 crew
• Head compartments 4 + 1 crew
• Engines 3 x VOLVO PENTA IPS 1350 (1000 hp)
• Maximum speed (test load) up to 34 kn
• Cruising speed (performance test mass) up to 28 kn
• Fuel capacity 4000 l (1057 US Gal)
• Water capacity 1100 l (291 US Gal)

Azimut updates

Choose to remain updated on Azimut’s yachts, launches, shows and more by subscribing to our newsletter.

I have read Azimut Benetti s.p.a. privacy notice and:

I agree to receive the newsletter about Azimut’s world from Azimut Benetti s.p.a.

You will soon receive your first newsletter with the latest Azimut news.

Follow us on WECHAT

Please keep me updated on everything about this yacht.

Non venderemo mai i tuoi dati, manterremo i tuoi dati al sicuro e non condivideremo mai i tuoi dati con terze parti per scopi di marketing. You can update your contact details at any time by emailing [email protected] or change your mind by clicking “unsubscribe” in any email you receive from us.

I agree to receive, via email, informational material regarding Azimut products from Azimut Benetti s.p.a..

We have successfully received your request and will contact you shortly.

Our newsletter will provide you with the latest news, on boat launches, previews and shows.

Complete the form below to be contacted by a dedicated dealer who will gladly respond to your questions and requirements.

I agree with the disclosure of my personal data to other companies belonging to Azimut Benetti s.p.a. group and /or to third-party companies affiliated with Azimut Benetti s.p.a. for the sale of its products.

We have successfully received your request. One of our select dealers will contact you shortly.

Specify your request

Fill in the required fields and submit the form.

I have read Azimut Benetti s.p.a. privacy notice.

Thank you for your interest

Advertisement

Social Media Influencers to Speak at the Democratic Convention

While they have millions of followers on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, this week they will share the podium with the top tier of Democratic politics.

• Share full article

By Ken Bensinger

• Published Aug. 18, 2024 Updated Aug. 21, 2024

A speaking slot at a national party’s nominating convention is among the most coveted prizes in American politics, offering veteran officeholders and up-and-comers alike the chance to speak to — and be seen by — an entire nation.

At the Democratic National Convention this week in Chicago, five of those rare slots will go to a group that most likely would be unfamiliar to previous convention planners: social media influencers.

Convention officials said each night would include at least one influencer. The speakers are Deja Foxx, Nabela Noor, Carlos Eduardo Espina, Olivia Julianna and John Russell, a group of millennial and Gen Z influencers who, collectively, have well over 24 million social media followers.

They will speak on the same podium as President Biden; the Democratic nominees, Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota; and party luminaries, including two former presidents, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, among others.

“This feels very affirming,” said Ms. Foxx, 24, a reproductive rights activist from Arizona who worked on Ms. Harris’s first presidential campaign. She’ll speak about abortion rights on Monday night in a program that will also feature Mr. Biden. “I don’t take it lightly that I’m speaking on the same night as the president of the United States,” she said.

These speakers represent a significant shift for the convention and underscore the Democratic Party’s efforts to speak to voters whose news diet exists outside traditional media. Last month, a conservative influencer, the actress and model Amber Rose, spoke on the first night of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

The speaker roster at conventions tends to mix elected officials with entertainment figures and regular citizens who can speak to particular policy issues. The Republicans’ convention last month featured a number of people the party called “Everyday Americans,” who discussed topics including immigration, inflation and crime.

A study by the Pew Research Center last year found that almost half of Americans get some of their news from social media and that a third of adults under 30 get their news from TikTok.

To help chase those potential voters, the D.N.C. has, for the first time, granted credentials to more than 200 influencers, offering them the kind of wide-ranging access to events and people traditionally provided only to the press. It’s also giving them a special “creator platform” within the convention venue in Chicago, the United Center: a special V.I.P. box directly above the arena floor.

Providing influencers time onstage gives them the chance to repost clips of their speeches to their own social media accounts as well as the feeds of other influencers watching the show, all in pursuit of the modern media era’s most valuable prize of all: virality.

“ Content creators are a vehicle to reach new audiences, not just through their content, but through their unique ability to speak authentically to their own communities,” said Emily Soong, a spokeswoman for the convention.

Ms. Foxx said she was first approached by organizers a few weeks ago and has since worked with a campaign speechwriter to hone her presentation. “I was pretty nervous but now I’m feeling really ready,” she said. “I’ve been running through my speech every day.”

The lineup on Tuesday night will include Ms. Noor, a Muslim American known for her makeup tutorials, cooking videos and frank talk about her challenging journey to motherhood. With more than 11 million followers spread across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, she will speak on a night whose theme, “A Bold Vision for America’s Future,” is meant to draw contrasts between the Harris-Walz ticket and their Republican rivals, Donald J. Trump and Senator JD Vance of Ohio.

For Wednesday’s program, Mr. Espina, the son of Latin American immigrants who has amassed a huge following on TikTok with his videos about news, politics, food and soccer, will talk about immigration. Although he normally posts in Spanish, he is expected to deliver his remarks in English.

That night will also include Ms. Julianna, who has called herself “a plus-size queer Latina from rural Southeast Texas” and gained a following from her involvement in Gen-Z for Change , a youth-oriented political activism group. Her top issues include climate change and, like Ms. Foxx, abortion access.

“Peer to peer organizing is one of the most powerful tools we have in our democracy,” said Ms. Julianna, whose speech topic will be “freedom.” For years I’ve spoken directly to my fellow young Americans through my social media pages, knocking doors for Democratic candidates, and rallying for fundamental freedoms across the country.”

During the convention’s final night, which organizers are describing, thematically, as a narrative about how the 2024 election is a fight “for our future,” Mr. Russell, a self-described “dirtbag journalist” will have a chance to speak.

Based in West Virginia, he worked on rural policy and engagement for Senator Elizabeth Warren’s presidential campaign in 2020, ran unsuccessfully for Congress, and has built a following on his progressive coverage of the industrial Midwest and his strong support of labor unions. In his social media bios, he describes himself as “biased for the working class.”

Ken Bensinger covers right wing media and national political campaigns for The Times. More about Ken Bensinger

Italian prosecutors open a manslaughter investigation into yacht sinking off Sicily

ROME — Prosecutors in Italy said Saturday they have opened an investigation into culpable shipwreck and multiple manslaughter after a superyacht capsized during a storm off the coast of Sicily, killing seven people onboard. They included British tech magnate Mike Lynch and his daughter.

Termini Imerese prosecutor Ambrogio Cartosio confirmed the investigation has been launched, but said no suspect is currently identified.

“We are only in the initial phase of the investigation. We can’t exclude any sort of development at present,” he told reporters at a news conference.

Cartosio said his team will carefully consider each possible element of responsibility, including those of the ship's captain, the crew, individuals in charge of supervision, the ship-builder and others.

“For me, it is probable that offences were committed, that it could be a case of manslaughter, but we can only establish that if you give us the time to investigate," he said.

The main question investigators are focusing on is how a sailing vessel deemed “unsinkable” by its manufacturer, Italian shipyard Perini Navi, sank while a nearby sailboat remained largely unscathed.

Prosecutors said the event was “extremely rapid” and information they gained seemed pointing to a “downburst,” a localised, powerful wind that descends from a thunderstorm and spreads out rapidly upon hitting the ground.

Initially, Civil protection officials said they believe the yacht, which featured a distinctive 75-meter (246-feet) aluminum mast, was struck by a tornado over the water, known as a waterspout.

Investigators were also asked why the crew was almost entirely saved, except for the chef, while six passengers remained trapped in the hull.

Local official confirmed that most of the bodies recovered were found in the same part of the ship — on the left side and closer to the surface — suggesting that passengers had sought safety in the cabins where the last air bubbles had formed.

Deputy Prosecutor Raffaele Cammarano said it was likely that the passengers were asleep, adding that one of the main focus of the investigation is to ascertain whether they were alerted by someone.

Cammarano confirmed that one person was on watch in the cockpit.

Rescuers on Friday brought ashore the last of seven bodies from the sinking of The Bayesian, a 56-meter (184-foot) British-flagged luxury yacht that went down in a storm near the Mediterranean island in southern Italy early Monday. The sailboat was carrying a crew of 10 people and 12 passengers.

The seventh victim was Hannah Lynch, 18, the daughter of Mike Lynch., whose body was recovered Thursday. He had been celebrating his recent acquittal on fraud charges with his family and the people who had defended him at trial in the United States. His wife, Angela Bacares, was among the 15 survivors.

Rescuers struggled for four days to find all the bodies, making only slow headway through the interior of the wreck lying on the seabed 50 meters (164 feet) below the surface.

The other five victims are Christopher Morvillo, one of Lynch’s U.S. lawyers, and his wife, Neda; Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of Morgan Stanley’s London-based investment banking subsidiary, and his wife, Judy; and Recaldo Thomas, the yacht’s chef.

Copyright 2024 NPR

Superyacht maker's CEO: Bayesian's crew made an 'incredible mistake'

The body of British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch was recovered Thursday from his family's superyacht that sank off the coast of Italy after it encountered a sudden and powerful storm, authorities said.

After four bodies were recovered from the wreck Wednesday, Lynch's 18-year-old daughter, Hannah, remains the only person unaccounted for, Massimo Mariani, of Italy's interior ministry, told Reuters. Her body may have been swept out to sea, Mariani said.

It could take divers more time to find her body because of the difficulties of accessing the sunken ship more than 160 feet down, said Luca Cari, a fire brigade spokesperson. Rescuers faced a challenging task in scouring extremely deep and narrow spaces around the boat.

Giovanni Costantino, the CEO of Italian ship manufacturer Perini, which made the ship in 2008, told Reuters on Thursday, "The boat suffered a series of indescribable, unreasonable errors."

He said the crew made an "incredible mistake" in not preparing for the storm, even though it was announced in a shipping forecast earlier. "This is the mistake that cries out for vengeance," he said.

Lynch, 59, was best known as the co-founder of Britain’s largest enterprise software, Autonomy, which was sold to Hewlett-Packard in 2011. He had invited his friends on the yacht to celebrate his acquittal in June of fraud charges related to the sale of Autonomy.

The Bayesian, a 184-feet-long British-registered sailboat, went down just before sunrise Monday off the coast of Porticello, near Palermo, where it was anchored when a strong storm swept across the area. Of the 22 passengers and crew members on board, 15, including Lynch's wife, Angela Bacares, were pulled from the water Monday, and several were hospitalized. Divers then recovered the body of Ricardo Thomas, the yacht's chef, near the ship.

Who were among the missing?

An exhaustive search ensued for six missing people: Lynch and his daughter; Judy and Jonathan Bloomer, a non-executive chair of Morgan Stanley International; and Clifford Chance lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife, Neda Morvillo.

Jonathan Bloomer was a character witness at Lynch’s fraud trial, and Chris Morvillo, an American citizen, was part of the team that represented Lynch.

Hannah, the younger of Lynch's two daughters, was preparing to study English literature at Oxford University, according to the Sunday Times.

Start your day smart. Sign up for USA TODAY's Daily Briefing newsletter.

Investigation opened into the tragedy

Local prosecutors have opened an investigation into the disaster and will hold a press conference on Saturday.

Costantino said there were no errors in the ship's construction or design. "It went down because it took on water. From where, the investigators will tell," he said.

The ship, owned by Lynch's wife, Bacares, was constructed in accordance with international maritime standards and commercially certified by the U.K.'s Maritime and Coastguard Agency, according to Matthew Schanck, chairman of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council. It was refitted for the second time in 2020.

Experts have pointed to  a waterspout, a tornado over the water that can travel up to 120 mph, that formed during the storm, as well as the weight of the ship's mast, one of the largest in the world, as possible factors in its sinking.

Contributing: Jeanine Santucci , USA TODAY ; Reuters

8-year-old found unharmed in Arizona wilderness

After going missing on a trip to a cave, the boy was found in the arizona wilderness., august 23, 2024, what’s next for russia, what comes next after texas school shooting, what's next for abortion rights in america, the new battle for voting rights, how we can build a clean and renewable future, the fight for kyiv, examining extremism in the military, gun violence: an american epidemic, border crisis: what’s happening at the us-mexico border, remembering george floyd: a year of protest, the source of covid-19: what we know, how did the gamestop stock spike on wall street happen, why are people hesitant to trust a covid-19 vaccine, how climate change and forest management make wildfires harder to contain, disparity in police response: black lives matter protests and capitol riot, 2020 in review: a year unlike any other, examined: how putin keeps power, why don’t the electoral college and popular vote always match up, us crosses 250,000 coronavirus deaths, 2nd impeachment trial: what this could mean for trump, presidential transition of power: examined, how donald trump spent his last days as president, how joe biden's inauguration will be different from previous years, belarus’ ongoing protests: examined, trump challenges the vote and takes legal action, 2020’s dnc and rnc are different than any before, what is happening with the usps, voting in 2020 during covid-19, disinformation in 2020, abc news specials on, impact x nightline: on the brink, impact x nightline: unboxing shein, the lady bird diaries, impact x nightline: it's britney, impact x nightline: natalee holloway -- a killer confesses, impact x nightline: who shot tupac, impact x nightline, power trip: those who seek power and those who chase them, the murders before the marathon, the ivana trump story: the first wife, mormon no more, leave no trace: a hidden history of the boy scouts, keeper of the ashes: the oklahoma girl scout murders, the orphans of covid: america's hidden toll, superstar: patrick swayze, the kardashians -- an abc news special, 24 months that changed the world, have you seen this man.