Finnish shipyard Baltic Yachts has launched 23.9m yacht Bill and Me, known as Baltic M/Y 78, in July 2017. She was commissioned by experienced owners who wanted all the seamanlike design and comfort of a sailing yacht combined with the speed and ease of use of a comfortable motor yacht. Naval architecture is by German Frers and her interior is largely inspired and specified by her owners with professional input from Design Unlimited.
Frers has studied recent commercial ship research into making vessels as efficient as possible, resulting in the motion of his motor yachts becoming less aggressive. This has had the unexpected effect of reducing motion sickness. Baltic Yachts and its engineers have worked closely with Frers to capitalise on this design research which has benefitted from the advanced composite construction techniques perfected in Jakobstad.
The motor yacht’s relatively modest beam is fundamental to the yacht’s easily driven, sea-kindly hull. She’s powered by twin 625hp Volvo Penta diesels driving through IPS 800 Duo-props with their well-proven low vibration and fuel efficiency. Although the emphasis is for a yacht able to achieve cruising speeds of 16-18 knots, her semi-planing hull, which is fitted with special trim tabs, is designed for top speeds of 25 knots. Bill and Me’s stability is further enhanced by two Seakeeper, gyro-driven stabilisers.
Two separate saloons are contained within the Baltic MY78’s composite and glass superstructure, one for dining the other for relaxing. They both have direct, one level access to the extensive deck areas fore and aft, which are protected by deep, all-round bulwarks.
Other features on deck include a reflective glass deck superstructure finish and custom stainless-steel work including unique 3D printed push pit and pulpit design which enhances the yacht’s contemporary look. There’s also a hydraulically operated boarding/swim platform and a bespoke fishing seat in the aft cockpit area.
Below decks there are two amidships guest cabins, an owner’s suite forward and space for two crew cabins aft, all finished to an extremely high standard of custom detailing. The styling is more akin to a sailing yacht than a motor yacht with traditional timbers like oak, teak and cherry in evidence, with all corners rounded for seamanlike safety. Unusual embossed leather also features on some of the surfaces.
A great deal has been worked into her accommodation including a stern garage for a tender. A beautifully detailed and well-equipped galley features a dumb waiter serving the deck saloon. Striking photographic studies, stucco panelling commissioned from an Italian interior design specialist, custom built furniture and intense colouring in some of the soft furnishing combine to put this bespoke yacht in a class of her own.
Peter Jones, responsible for developing motor yacht sales at Baltic Yachts said:
This 78ft motor yacht sets new standards and points the way forward for what we will be able to achieve at Baltic Yachts. Reaction to the M78 has led us, Frers and Design Unlimited, to work on a 30m version of the Bill and Me concept, details of which will be available at the Monaco Yacht Show
Pearl Yachts has introduces the Pearl 100 Hybrid, a 30-meter raised pilothouse model featuring hybrid propulsion. The vessel becomes the largest and first hybrid-equipped yacht in the company's portfolio, designed for extended range cruising with reduced environmental impact.The hybrid system combines twin MAN V12 2000hp engines with E-Motion electric technology, enabling multiple operational modes including silent zero-emission cruising and 24-knot maximum speed. The Power Pack allows overnight operation without generator operation, reducing noise and emissions during stationary periods.Accommodations include five staterooms with two full-beam master suites - one on the main deck with private forepeak terrace access, another midship on the lower deck. Additional spaces include a forward VIP cabin and two twin guest cabins, all with ensuite bathrooms. Crew accommodations consist of two cabins with separate mess and service access.Design collaboration involves Dixon Yacht Design for naval architecture and Kelly Hoppen Interiors for styling. The layout emphasizes social areas including a Riviera-style aft cockpit with folding balconies, foredeck lounge, and extended flybridge with Technogym equipment, Jacuzzi, and dining facilities.Founder and Managing Director Iain Smallridge stated: "As our first hybrid model and our largest to date, it embodies our vision of what the future of yachting should be: elegant, liveable, efficient, and sustainable."The yacht incorporates a concealed garage accommodating a Williams Dieseljet 445 tender, Sea-Doo Spark watercraft, and multiple Seabobs. Construction includes a five-year warranty covering hull and engineering systems, consistent with Pearl's existing product support framework. The Pearl 100 Hybrid enters production as the flagship of Pearl's model range, targeting owners seeking increased range capabilities and reduced environmental impact without compromising interior volume or amenities. Delivery timelines and pricing remain undisclosed at this initial presentation phase.Founded in 1998, Pearl Yachts has established itself as one of the UK’s leading shipyards, specializing in designing luxury motor yachts known for their voluminous interiors, opulence, and design excellence. Credits: Pearl Yachts
September 11, 2025
The Italian Sea Group will participate in the 34th Monaco Yacht Show from September 24-27, 2025, displaying six yachts at Port Hercule. The exhibition will feature recent launches from the group's Admiral, Perini Navi, Picchiotti, and Tecnomar brands.Chief Commercial Officer Gianmaria Costantino stated: "In our exclusive lounge, located in the Quai Rainier Ier area, shipowners and industry experts will have the opportunity to experience first-hand the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and stylistic innovation that distinguish our yachts."Exhibited vessels include:Admiral Giorgio Armani 72m (Project 596) with design collaboration between Giorgio Armani and Giovanni CostantinoAdmiral Amalya 78m designed by Sinot Yacht Architecture & DesignPerini Navi Katana 60m sailing ketch with interiors by Rémi TessierAdmiral Raja² 55m from the S-Force line designed in-housePicchiotti Gentleman 24m by Luca Dini Design & ArchitectureTecnomar for Lamborghini 63 production modelThe group will host a press conference at the Monaco Yacht Club preceding the show to unveil a new collaborative project with Automobili Lamborghini. The presentation will also include updates on future developments across the company's brand portfolio.The Italian Sea Group currently maintains production facilities in Marina di Carrara, La Spezia, and Viareggio. The company's portfolio ranges from 24-meter motor yachts to 78-meter megayachts, with both sail and power configurations available.Recent deliveries include multiple vessels across all brands, with order books extending through 2028 for larger custom projects. The Monaco exhibition represents one of several international shows where the group maintains annual presence, alongside events in Cannes and Fort Lauderdale.The show expects approximately 120 superyachts and 40,000 visitors during its four-day run. 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
September 11, 2025
Benetti has unveiled its B.Neos concept, a motor yacht design emphasizing sailing yacht proportions and hybrid propulsion technology. The design collaboration involves Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design for exterior styling and FM Architettura for interior spaces.The concept prioritizes reduced volume pursuit in favor of spatial efficiency and functional layouts. Standard hybrid propulsion systems enable silent operation at anchor, reflecting the design's focus on acoustic comfort. The approach targets owners seeking understated luxury rather than ostentatious displays.Azimut|Benetti Group Chair Giovanna Vitelli stated: "B.Neos represents a new approach that looks ahead. We chose a leading designer from the sailing segment to bring the sleek proportions of sailing yachts to a motor yacht, avoiding the pursuit of volume at any cost."Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design brings experience from over 200 yacht projects, incorporating extensive glazing and structural innovation. FM Architettura, led by Francesca Muzio, applies its background in luxury residential and yacht interiors to create minimalist environments.The B.Neos concept forms part of Benetti's ongoing development of alternative propulsion solutions and contemporary design approaches. The company continues to offer both traditional motor yacht configurations and new concepts addressing evolving owner preferences regarding sustainability and spatial utilization.Production timelines and specific technical specifications remain undisclosed at the concept phase. Benetti's current portfolio ranges from 37 to 112 meters, with the B.Neos concept expected to occupy the mid-range segment of the company's offerings. The concept will be presented to selected clients before potential production decisions.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
September 11, 2025
Italian yacht builder Maiora, part of NEXT Yacht Group, will preview its new M|30 model at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025. The 30.4-meter yacht is scheduled for delivery in summer 2026, representing the latest addition to the brand's M line.Designed in collaboration with Quartostile studio and Acube Design, the vessel features a 7.5-meter beam and three-deck configuration. Accommodations include five cabins for 12 guests, with a full-beam owner's suite on the main deck and four guest suites below. Crew quarters aft of the lower deck accommodate five staff members.Design characteristics incorporate full-height windows and glass bulwarks to connect interior and exterior spaces. The exterior profile emphasizes coupé-like lines while maintaining interior volume. The beach club area has been enlarged and reconfigured as an open veranda space connected to the main deck.Acube Design's interior approach utilizes natural materials and organic aesthetics. The main saloon offers flexible usage options, while the owner's suite includes walk-in wardrobe, en suite bathroom with windows, and convertible desk space. The upper deck provides customizable layouts alongside a separate wheelhouse area.Outdoor features include a redesigned sundeck, WalkAround concept passageways, and a forward garage convertible between toy storage and swimming pool functions. The hull incorporates a signature lighting strip consistent with Maiora's M|36 model.The presentation forms part of NEXT Yacht Group's strategy to expand its European market presence. The company describes the M|30 development as contributing to its "Renaissance" initiative focused on contemporary Italian yacht design standards. Production will utilize Maiora's existing facilities with the first unit currently in development.Credits: Maiora
September 10, 2025
Cantiere del Pardo brings three new models at the Cannes Yachting Festival. The presentation includes the Pardo 43 walkaround yacht, VanDutch 75 day cruiser, and Grand Soleil Plus 80 Performance sailing yacht.Pardo 43 The Pardo 43 represents an evolution of the previous model, with over 300 units sold since its introduction. Company President Gigi Servidati stated: "This new version is not about revolution, but evolution - continuing to refine and improve a model that has already made history." The design maintains the walkaround configuration while updating various elements.VanDutch 75The VanDutch 75 measures 22.9 meters and introduces updated styling to the brand's existing design language. The model retains the low-profile silhouette and clean geometry characteristic of VanDutch yachts while incorporating new technical details and Mediterranean design influences.The Grand Soleil Plus 80 Performance follows the Long Cruise version presented at Boot Düsseldorf 2025. The sailing yacht measures 24.4 meters and offers performance-oriented features alongside customizable interior layouts. The first unit has been sold and is currently under construction.Grand Soleil Plus 80 PerformanceCantiere del Pardo currently has four yachts in production across its Plus series: two Grand Soleil Plus 80 models (one Long Cruise and one Performance), one GS Plus 72 Performance, and one GS Plus 65 Long Cruise. Delivery schedules indicate spring 2026 for the first GS Plus 80 LC and late 2026 for the GS Plus 80 Performance.The company maintains production facilities in Italy supporting both motor yacht and sailing yacht construction. With over 5,000 yachts built since its establishment, Cantiere del Pardo operates through a network of 60 countries worldwide. The Cannes presentation demonstrates the company's continued investment across its three brand portfolios.Credits: Cantiere del Pardo; Gianluca Naphtalina Camporesi
September 10, 2025