One of the world's most appealing industries in the world from a PR and marketing standpoint, yachting often appears as a relatively untouched field to the automotive industry. Yet, over the years, several players from that market tried to venture into yachting.
Ferrari and family
Brands: Ferretti Group (13.2%)
The Italian sports car manufacturer's history in yachting stretches all the way back to 1990 with the delivery of the Riva Ferrari 32. In total, 30 hulls of this speedboat line styled by Ferrari were built. In 2016, a barely used model was auctioned off by Sotheby's in Monaco at a starting price of €180,000.
Ferrari's most significant step into yachting seems to however have come in 2016, when Piero Ferrari, the son of Ferrari founder, Enzo Ferrari, bought 13.2% of Ferretti Group, the company behind brands such as Riva, CRN and Pershing. Controlled by Chinese conglomerate, Weichai, Ferretti Group posted earnings before tax of €11 million in the first quarter of 2016.
Porsche and family
Brands: Royal Falcon Fleet, Fearless, Kormaran
Through its majority-owned subsidiary, Porsche Design Group, the German company first tried entering yachting with the Fearless 28, an 8.5-meter luxury speedboat reaching top speeds of up to 78 knots, four of which were built.
The German's sports car manufacturer's second attempt to enter yachting came in 2009 with the introduction of a concept for a 41-meter catamaran in combination with Royal Falcon Fleet, a now Swedish-based company that had developed the project for a fractional ownership program with a break down of about 10 owners per RFF135.
The delivery of the first RF135 was however postponed first from Q4 2010 to 2012 and then later seemed to disappear from the map. Part-built, the catamaran is currently still lying in Oregrund, Sweden where Royal Falcon Fleet offices are now located.
In 2012, Peter Daniell Porsche, great-grandson of Porsche founder, Ferdinand Porsche became a partner in Kormaran, a company trying to bring to market a transforming watercraft capable of cruising in six different positions, including a monohull and a trimaran, which is set to retail for near to €1 million.
Mercedes-Benz
Model: Arrow 460 Granturismo
Partners: Baltic Yachts
In 2016, Mercedes-Benz, the famed German car manufacturer, introduced their first yacht designed by Mercedes-Benz Style, a 14-meter luxury speed boat nicknamed, Silver Arrow of the Seas. Powered by twin Yanmar engines of 480hp each, the yacht can reach speeds of up to 30 knots. With a price tag of near €2,5 million, only 10 of these boats will be manufactured at Baltic Yachts for this first edition.
Aston Martin
Model: Aston Martin AM37
Partners: Quintessence Yachts
In partnership with Quintessence Yachts, a boat builder based in the Netherlands, Aston Martin have introduced their first 37-foot luxury speedboat at the Monaco Yacht Show last year. Having spent two years in research and development, the A37 will come in two options with top speeds of either 50 or 45 knots.
Bugatti
Models: Niniette Series
Partners: Palmer Johnson
The result of a partnership between French car manufacturer, Bugatti and former US shipyard, Palmer Johnson, the Niniette series features several models between 50 and 88 feet. Amongst the project's key amenities are a large sunbathing area on the main deck as well as a spacious living room and a large master cabin on the lower deck.
Lexus
Model: Lexus Sport Yacht
Partners: Marquis-Carver Yacht Group
Lexus, a division of Japanese car manufacturer, Toyota, had recently launched a concept for a 12.7-meter luxury speedboat built by Marquis-Carver Yacht Group in Wisconsin. The proof of concept could reach a top speed of 43 knots powered by twin 440hp Lexus engines but is not set to go into mass production.
The Italian Sea Group announces another triumph with the official debut of the Perini Navi Katana, a 60-meter ketch representing a groundbreaking chapter in maritime excellence following the integration of a retractable keel. This innovative feature grants the yacht exceptional versatility, handling, and performance, enabling seamless adaptation to diverse sailing environments, including non-sailing conditions and shallow waters. The retractable keel improves stability and efficiency, delivering unmatched navigational freedom to its owners.Perfectly blending tradition, innovation, and opulence, the S/Y Katana showcases an aluminum hull for robustness and lightness, complemented by state-of-the-art sailing systems and a retractable keel that elevate its performance. The interiors, artfully crafted by esteemed French designer Rémi Tessier, exemplify luxury and comfort through premium materials and avant-garde solutions, fostering an unrivaled onboard ambiance.Founder & CEO of The Italian Sea Group, Giovanni Costantino, states, “The Katana is a testament to our dedication to innovation and marks a pivotal moment in Perini Navi’s evolution. Combining cutting-edge technology with exquisite design, she underscores Perini Navi’s preeminent role in the ultra-luxury yachting market.”This milestone bolsters the brand’s global stature and underlines its unwavering pursuit of advancement, propelling it towards fresh frontiers of sophistication and ingenuity. This accomplishment aligns with the strategic overhaul initiated post The Italian Sea Group’s acquisition of Perini Navi in 2022, which yielded a revitalized fleet merging time-honored charm with pioneering innovations. Highlights include the iconic Art Explorer, winner of the 2025 Superyacht Design Awards, heralding a novel epoch in luxury yachting, alongside upcoming deliveries of two Perini Navi motor yachts, upholding the brand’s legacy of peerless refinement and craftsmanship.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: The Italian Sea Group
March 26, 2025
Italian shipyard Tankoa Yachts has once again raised the bar with the launch of its latest model, the S520. Building on the resounding success of its 50-meter predecessor, the S501, the new vessel showcases an evolved design courtesy of acclaimed naval architect Francesco Paszkowski. The S520 not only maintains the timeless appeal of its earlier iteration but introduces several innovative features that set it apart.At first glance, the S520 commands attention with its bold, gunmetal-grey hull and streamlined silhouette. While retaining the balanced proportions of the S501, the new model expands its footprint to 52 metres, offering increased volume without sacrificing agility or aesthetic integrity. This extended length allows for a host of improvements, including significantly enhanced outdoor living spaces.In response to growing demand for expansive outdoor areas, the S520 features a reimagined sundeck equipped with an infinity pool – a luxurious addition sure to delight guests. The upper deck skylounge has also been enlarged, providing additional space for entertaining and relaxation. Meanwhile, the flybridge has been extended, offering even greater flexibility for hosting events or simply enjoying panoramic views.One of the standout features of the S520 is its meticulously redesigned stern. Drawing inspiration from modern beach clubs, Paszkowski has seamlessly integrated the main deck, aft platform, and beach club into a single cohesive space. This transformation enhances connectivity with the surrounding environment, making it ideal for social gatherings or leisurely afternoons spent basking in the sun.Practicality meets elegance in the S520's thoughtful incorporation of functional components. The tender crane, typically viewed as utilitarian, has been ingeniously blended into the vessel's design, preserving its clean lines. Similarly, the gangway has been discreetly integrated into the aft platform, maximizing usable space while ensuring smooth boarding and disembarking.Inside, the collaboration between Francesco Paszkowski and Margherita Casprini shines through in the contemporary, airy interiors. Higher ceilings and larger windows flood the spaces with natural light, creating a sense of openness. Architectural choices such as overlapping panels and partitions introduce a layered, fragmented effect, adding depth and interest to each area. In the owner's suite, independent zones – including a bedroom, lounge, study, walk-in wardrobe, and vanity area – flow harmoniously together, united by curvilinear forms and neutral tones.According to Tankoa Yachts CEO Vincenzo Poerio, the S520 represents the culmination of Tankoa's commitment to excellence. He describes the vessel as "the epitome of Tankoa," emphasizing its ability to anticipate the evolving needs of discerning owners. Combining cutting-edge design with refined craftsmanship, the S520 promises to deliver an unforgettable experience on the water.Tankoa was founded in 2007 and began production in 2008. A true “boutique shipyard”, focused on building semi-custom and custom constructions 45-meter and up.Credits: Tankoa
March 26, 2025
Heesen Yachts has announced the sale of its latest innovation, YN 20750 Project Orion, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of sustainable luxury yachting. The 50-meter Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) aluminium superyacht represents a groundbreaking fusion of advanced engineering, and eco-conscious design.Project Orion showcases Heesen’s pioneering hybrid propulsion system, delivering silent cruising capabilities up to 10 knots. The vessel’s ultra-efficient hull design and lightweight aluminium construction achieve a remarkable 30% reduction in fuel consumption. Powered by twin MTU 12V 2000 M61 (IMO III) engines, each producing 600kW, the yacht boasts a top speed of 16.3 knots and a transatlantic range of 3,750 nautical miles.With a shallow draft of 2.15 meters, Project Orion offers unparalleled versatility, seamlessly navigating both the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas and the expansive Mediterranean. This dual-season capability is a testament to Heesen’s precision engineering and the yacht’s meticulously optimised design by van Oossanen.The yacht’s striking exterior, penned by Frank Laupman of Omega Architects, features a dramatic vertical bow and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, creating an elegant silhouette and offering panoramic views. Interior designer Cristiano Gatto has curated a contemporary, light-filled interior, utilising over 37 different materials, including high-gloss wood veneers, woven leather, and bespoke Italian marble.The 499 GT internal volume is configured with a six-stateroom layout, including a full-beam owner’s stateroom on the main deck and a VIP suite. All fixed furniture and finishes are crafted by skilled artisans, with Cadorin’s artisan dark wood flooring and luxurious leather selections enhancing the onboard experience.“Project Orion is a testament to our commitment to advancing superyacht technology while seamlessly blending sustainability with luxury,” said Ruud van der Stroom, Heesen’s CCO. “With our innovative hybrid solutions, we are setting new standards in energy efficiency and delivering an unparalleled cruising experience.”The sale, facilitated by Anton Foord of Ocean Independence, marks a significant achievement for Heesen, demonstrating the growing demand for eco-friendly luxury yachts that do not compromise on performance or comfort. Project Orion is scheduled for delivery in mid-May.Heesen Yachts is a Dutch ship building company that specializes in custom-built superyachts in aluminum and steel from 30m to 70m in size. Founded in 1978, it has launched more than 170 yachts since its inception.Credit: RubenGriffioen/Heesen Yachts
March 25, 2025
IYC welcomed the 15 meter Sunreef Yachts Lucy to its sales fleet, listing her for sale with consultants Jamie Swaine and Andrea Gallazzi. Lucy is a rare, one-owner Sunreef 50 from 2021, offering an opportunity to acquire one of the finest sailing catamarans on the market.The yacht, which has been maintained by a single discerning owner since new, features a range of upgrades that enhance her performance, comfort, and style. Accommodating eight guests in four spacious cabins, Lucy seamlessly blends performance and comfort, making her ideal for bluewater cruising and luxury charters. Her galley-up layout ensures complete self-sufficiency, catering to both sailing aficionados and those who appreciate a luxurious entertainment experience.Offering significant savings for European buyers by virtue of VAT already being paid, Lucy represents an exceptional opportunity in a competitive market. IYC, one of the world's largest international yachting companies, operates with over 130 professionals across 15 strategically located offices worldwide.Credits: IYC
March 25, 2025
Italian builder Silent Yachts has expanded its catamaran lineup with the introduction of the SY62 3-Deck Closed. This latest addition to the SY62 series features an enclosed upper deck design, making it particularly well-suited for operation in hotter climates, especially in regions like Asia.SY62 3-Deck ClosedThe launch of the SY62 3-Deck Closed follows closely on the heels of the seventh SY62 3-Deck Open, marking another milestone for Silent Yachts in their successful start to the year. The company, which was taken over by new owners in March 2024, has demonstrated its commitment to growth with plans to launch 10 yachts in 2025, including nine SY62 models and the new flagship SY80.“We are incredibly proud of the new Closed version of the SY62 3-Deck,” said Fabrizio Iarrera, CEO of Silent Yachts. “Less than a year after taking over, we are excited to introduce this new addition to our range, which highlights our commitment to quality and innovation in solar-powered cruising catamarans.”SY62 3-Deck ClosedThe Closed version retains all the space, amenities, and comforts of the award-winning SY62 3-Deck Open, which won the prestigious World Yachts Trophies ‘Most Efficient Yacht’ award at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2024. The enclosed upper deck offers an exceptional owner’s studio apartment with panoramic views, accessible through glass sliding doors to a covered aft deck. SY62 3-Deck ClosedLike its sibling models, the SY62 3-Deck Closed continues to deliver Silent Yachts’ signature silent, fume-free cruising experience, making it a highly sought-after choice for eco-conscious yacht owners.Silent-Yachts is producing the world’s first fully solar-sustainable oceangoing production catamaran yachts. They are powered exclusively by solar energy and capable of cruising up to 100 miles per day. In 2009, founders Heike and Michael Köhler, who have spent 6,000 days cruising more than 75,000 miles all around the world, launched the Solarwave 46, the first fully self-sufficient blue-water catamaran after years of testing solar-powered propulsion, and they have been building boats ever since. Credits: Silent-Yachts
March 25, 2025