Italy-based design studio Nuvolari – Lenard is one of the most active yacht design firms within the country and one of the largest in the world. Known for its Italian style, the firm has taken responsibility of 89 yachts afloat so far since 1992.
Nuvolari Lenard performs concept design, naval architecture, exterior styling, architecture and takes care of the yacht since the beginning of the project until the delivery. Yacht Harbour recalls 5 of the most renowned works by the company.
#1. Bravo Eugenia
LOA: 109 m
Yard: Oceanco (2018)
One of the largest yachts ever built in the Netherlands, Bravo Eugenia was developed in collaboration between Oceanco and Lateral Naval Architects. The vessel is claimed to be one of the pioneers of the so called LIFE (Lengthened, Innovative, Fuel Efficient, Eco Friendly) design.
Nuvolari Lenard developed her exteriors trademarked with extended waterline, fuel-efficient hull design and slender elegance stipulated by the LIFE Design, featuring a reduction in the overall demand for propulsion power at the same time
Bravo Eugenia had been technically launched in 2017 and delivered in 2018 to her reported owner, US billionaire and owner of the Dallas Cowboys NFL franchise, Jerry Jones. The latter is estimated at $6,9 billion. Meanwhile, Dallas Cowboys acquired by Jones for $150,000,000 in 1989, currently worth $5 billion.
#2. DAR
LOA: 90 m
Yard: Oceanco (2017)
Deivered by Oceanco in July 2018, the 90-metre motoryacht DAR, with edgy exterior styling by DeBasto Design has an unprecedented exterior glass decoration of nearly 24 tons and nearly 400 square metres. She was first known as Project Shark.
DAR’s detailed interior by Nuvolari Lenard works well with the exterior by taking advantage of the extraordinary floor-to-ceiling views from nearly everywhere on board. According to Nuvolari Lenard, the owners stipulated no dark timbers preferring the delicate and sophisticated use of alternative materials and finishes such as fine fabrics, wallpaper, 3D lacquer and lots of upholstery.
Her design was conceived to maximize opportunities for outdoor living and to have direct contact with the marine environment. While the yacht yields a massive amount of volume, DeBasto has ensured that the profile remains long, sporty and lean without a top- heavy superstructure.
In addition to head-turning aesthetics and advanced technology, DAR is the first yacht to ever achieve the Lloyd’s Integrated Bridge System (IBS) notation.
#3. Black Pearl
LOA: 106 m
Yard: Oceanco (2017)
Striking exterior of the iconic sailing yacht Black Pearl was designed by Nuvolari Lenard and Ken Freivokh, while her praised naval architecture was developed by Dyksra Architects, who had also previously worked on Maltese Falcon.
A combination of smart and elegant high-tech design and modernised state-of-the-art DynaRig sailing system makes the Black Pearl a unique vessel. Her hull outline is trademarked with an exclusive wave-piercing bow featuring not only graceful appearance, but also fuel efficiency.
Another key element of Black Pearl's development was her solar sails, which can actually produce energy whilst the yacht is underway thanks to solar panels built within the fabric of the sail.
Techno wise, the Black Pearl reaches a maximum speed of 17.5 knots thanks to MTU engines. Her interiors can accommodate up to 12 guests across 6 cabins.
#4. Seven Seas
LOA: 86 m
Yard: Oceanco (2010)
Photo by Julien Hubert
Owned by a legendary director Steven Spielberg, whose net worth is estimated at $3.7 billion (Forbes), Seven Seas features a large cinema, several large televisions and a large swimming pool aft. Nuvolari & Lenard was responsible for both interiors and exteriors of the yacht able to accommodate up to 12 guests across 7 cabins.
The yacht was built by Dutch yard Oceanco in 2010 with a beam of 14.02 metres and a draft of 3.96 metres. Classified by MCA, she has a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, adding up to a gross tonnage of 2,658 tones.
Propelled by MTU engines of 4680hp each, Seven Seas is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 20 knots and cruise at 15 knots.
#5. Quattroelle
LOA: 88 m
Yard: Lurssen (2012)
Built by Lurssen in 2012 and delivered one year later, Quattroelle features a steel hull and aluminium superstructure. Her untrvial name comes from a saying of the owner’s mother about the four essentials of existence.
Quatroelle can accommodate 12 guests across 6 cabins with both exterior and interior design by Nuvolari & Lenard. The superyacht's alluring amenities include an infinity pool, sun deck featuring a gym, sauna, steam room and spa pool. The master cabin is equipped with with three cabins, four bathrooms, dayhead, office, pantry and two outdoor terraces.
Quattroelle stands out for her smooth lines, high bow with sugar-scoop window shapes and reverse angle on the stack. With the profusion of stainless steel railings with their gleaming caprails, artistry is evident overall the yacht.
The vessel can achieve a top speed of 17 knots, and comfortably cruises at 12 knots.
Videoworks has announced the launch of an updated domotic control system for superyachts, combining advanced tactile control technology with the simplicity of a standard remote control. The new system addresses the growing demand for user-friendly interfaces tailored to the luxury onboard experience.The concept behind this system involves a return to intuitive design while incorporating modern technology. Many current domotic control systems on yachts feature complex interfaces, typically involving handheld tablets with intricate touchscreen options. Inspired by the success of smart home devices like Alexa and Google Home, Videoworks applies similar principles to the world of luxury yachts.Rather than relying on elaborate tablet devices, the new system focuses on simple, physical remote controls with tactile buttons for precise and reliable operation. This approach aims to make it easier for users to manage various functions, such as adjusting TV channels, controlling audio volume, and modifying lighting scenarios and room temperature. The primary objective is to enhance user convenience, especially in cabin environments where personal preferences are paramount without requiring navigation through unfamiliar interfaces or apps.Francesco Pierpaoli, Chief Information Officer, explained: "We developed this system based on feedback from our customers, who expressed a desire for simpler and more intuitive solutions. They find that using a physical remote with a few buttons is often more convenient than interacting with a tablet’s touchscreen, particularly in a cabin setting."Furthermore, the system includes a companion app that enables guests to use their smartphones to stream their preferred music and movies directly to the onboard television, providing a private and personalized entertainment experience without needing to master complex onboard systems.This evolution aligns with broader industry trends seen in sectors such as automotive and consumer electronics, where sophisticated technologies are integrated into luxury products to improve convenience and sophistication without introducing unnecessary complexity. By emphasizing end-user convenience, Videoworks' new system effectively balances high-tech functionality with everyday practicality.Credits: Videoworks
February 3, 2025
The Italian Sea Group announced today that their 47-meter Perini Navi Art Explorer sailing catamaran has been awarded the coveted "Multihull of the Year" title at the esteemed Boat International Design & Innovation Awards 2025. These awards recognize outstanding achievements in architecture, style, design, and technology within the yachting sector.The ceremony was held on Sunday, February 2nd, in Kitzbühel, Austria, during the Superyacht Design Festival, where industry professionals from around the globe gathered to honor exceptional contributions to the field."This distinguished accolade underscores our unwavering dedication to aesthetic and technical advancement," said Giovanni Costantino, Founder & CEO of The Italian Sea Group. "Art Explorer exemplifies our leadership in the large sailing yacht category, blending pioneering design with eco-friendly solutions – a groundbreaking concept never before realized."Designed by renowned architects Axel De Beaufort and Guillaume Verdier, Art Explorer stands as the world's largest aluminum sailing catamaran. Spanning 47 meters long with a remarkable 17.30-meter beam and soaring 55-meter carbon mast, this vessel represents a truly innovative project – a floating art gallery destined for a two-year global expedition, offering immersive cultural experiences while championing environmental responsibility.The catamaran's deckhouse features 65 square meters of solar panels, capable of producing up to 12 kW instantly and over 200 kW daily. Supported by a robust lithium battery bank, this system ensures zero-emissions energy supply for more than six hours, even under maximum onboard demand. Certified with a "green" class notation, Art Explorer also incorporates catalytic filters to minimize emissions and particulate matter from exhaust gases. All operations in ports and protected zones are conducted entirely in electric mode.Thanks to its state-of-the-art, fully automated sailing rig, controllable by just one individual, the catamaran effortlessly achieves speeds of 10 knots, even in gentle breezes.The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters. Credit: TISG
February 3, 2025
Benetti has announced the appointment of Matthew Walford as their new Area Manager for Australia and New Zealand, starting from February 1st, 2025. This strategic move reinforces Benetti’s presence in a dynamic and growing market.Walford brings over two decades of industry experience, specializing in new builds, brokerage, and refits. His extensive background includes serving as Business Development Manager at Austal | Oceanfast Australia, a prominent aluminum shipbuilding company. More recently, he led the Australian Azimut Yachts sales division as CEO of d'Albora Marine, making him a familiar face within the Azimut|Benetti Group.Daniela Petrozzi, Benetti's Sales Director, expressed her enthusiasm about the appointment: "We are thrilled to welcome Matthew Walford as our Area Manager for Australia and New Zealand. His deep understanding of the local market and vast industry knowledge will be invaluable assets as we continue to enhance our services and strengthen client relationships."Walford himself shared his excitement, stating, "It is an honor to take on this role, and I look forward to playing my part in driving further growth in this promising region."Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. Benetti designs, builds and sells composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. The fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom to meet all the needs of the market. Benetti belongs to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Benetti
February 3, 2025
The inaugural 2025 iQFOiL International Games concluded today in Lanzarote, with Johan Søe (DEN 37) and Emma Wilson (GBR 7) emerging as the champions in the men's and women's divisions respectively. Organized by Marina Rubicón, the event attracted 100 elite iQFOiL athletes from 26 countries, marking the beginning of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic cycle.The final day featured the Medal Series, which presented challenging conditions with gusty and shifty north winds ranging from 10 to 16 knots. This new format offered an engaging and dynamic conclusion to the games.Women's DivisionEmma Wilson, the bronze medalist from the 2024 Paris Olympics, maintained her dominant position throughout the week. Entering the Grand Final as the leader of the Opening Series, she won both races, securing her championship title. The Women's Quarter-Final included Islay Watson (GBR 20), Sara Wenneke (NED 33), Theresa Steinlein (GER 799), and Palma Čargo (CRO 9), with Watson and Čargo advancing to the Semi-Final. There, they joined Marta Maggetti (ITA 157) and Anastasia Valkevich (POL 6), with Watson and Valkevich progressing to the Grand Final alongside Wilson and Shahar Tibi (ISR 3). Wilson's consistent performance led her to victory, with Tibi finishing second, Watson third, Valkevich fourth, and Maggetti fifth.Men's DivisionIn the men's division, Johan Søe demonstrated remarkable resilience. Despite leading the Opening Series, he faced stiff competition and recovered from an early crash to ultimately win the Grand Final. The Men's Quarter-Final saw Manolo Modena (ITA 27), Kiran Badloe (NED 9), Rytis Jasiunas (LTU 7), and Adrien Mestre (FRA 4) compete for Semi-Final spots, with Modena and Badloe advancing. They later joined Nicolas Goyard (FRA 465) and Nacho Baltasar (ESP 4) in the Semi-Final, with Modena and Badloe making it to the Grand Final along with Søe and Nicolò Renna (ITA 150). Although Søe crashed during the first downwind, he regained his composure to take the lead in the second race, winning the Grand Final. Modena placed second in the final race, followed by Renna in third and Badloe in fourth.Final RankingsWomen's Top 5: Emma Wilson (GBR 7) Shahar Tibi (ISR 3) Islay Watson (GBR 20) Anastasia Valkevich (POL 6) Marta Maggetti (ITA 157)Men's Top 5: Johan Søe (DEN 37) Nicolò Renna (ITA 150) Manolo Modena (ITA 27) Kiran Badloe (NED 9) Nicolas Goyard (FRA 465) Nacho Baltasar (ESP 4)Next EventsFollowing this successful event, athletes will prepare for upcoming competitions, including the #2 iQFOiL International Games in Cádiz from March 8 to 14 and the Trofeo Princesa Sofía in Palma from March 28 to April 5. The new sails used in these games were well-received, and the new Medal Series format proved effective in highlighting consistent performances.Marina Rubicón and the organizing team received praise for executing a flawless event, further establishing Lanzarote as a premier location for Olympic-class sailing.Credits: iQFOiL International Games
February 3, 2025
The insolvent shipyards owned by Lars Windhorst in Schleswig-Holstein are set to be taken over by new investors. The appointed administrators have presented two buyers, while Windhorst has made a last-minute offer in an attempt to regain control.According to preliminary insolvency administrator Christoph Morgen, the Heinrich Rönner Group from Bremerhaven will acquire the Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft (FSG). Work at the shipyard is expected to resume shortly, focusing on completing a ferry for the Australian shipping company SeaRoad. The vessel has been docked for an extended period. The Nobiskrug shipyard in Rendsburg, meanwhile, will be taken over by the Lürssen Group from Bremen, as confirmed by preliminary insolvency administrator Hendrik Gittermann.Both shipyards are currently owned by Windhorst’s Tennor Group. Windhorst entered the Flensburg shipyard in 2019 and later acquired the Rendsburg facility. Over time, both shipyards reportedly struggled with financial difficulties, leading to complaints from employees about a lack of orders and materials. Insolvency proceedings were initiated after social security providers filed claims over unpaid contributions. The administrators also discovered over 150 official notices in the offices, including enforcement orders and court documents.Despite the planned takeovers, Windhorst has not abandoned efforts to retain the shipyards.Credits: Yacht Harbour archive
January 31, 2025