A growing number of modern yachts comes equipped with helipads, as helicopters are a convenient, time-saving, stylish and safe means of transportation. The ability to land a helicopter practically anywhere allows easy transportation of superyachts guests to or from the airports or various cities, without wasting time in heavy traffic.
One of the main advantages of having a helicopter on-board of yacht, is a significant time-saving feature due to the quick delivery options. Additionally, extreme sports enthusiasts can enjoy helicopter water skiing, some owners even pilot their helicopters. What is more, a helicopter facilitates the evacuation of sick or injured passengers when needed. Another important fact is that helicopters are environmentally friendly and considered one of the most quiet vehicle type.
To comply with the aviation rules and codex, helicopter-constructing companies work closely with yacht designers, which allows a helipad to be integrated into yachts’ outlines at the very beginning of construction, with the best on-board positioning.
It is worth mentioning that a yacht can house practically any helicopter model on-board, provided that the size of the vessel allows a helipad at all. From the historical perspective, the 36.6-metre Buckpasser motor yacht, built in 1985 at the Hitachi-Zosen shipyard, was one of the very first yachts to boast a fully-functional helicopter landing zone.
There are two approaches to landing a helicopter on a yacht. The first one can be described as touch-and-go. Those helipads are used only for non-commercial operation, and there are no standards and rules for it. The second approach, called fully-certified or commercially-certified, is far more common though. The basic rules governing the design, construction and operation of such sites are listed in the Commercial Yacht Code of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. In addition, international aviation regulations require that all commercial air transport helicopters should land on certified helipads, or in this case a helicopter deck, which must be built according to certain standards.
This way, landing a helicopter requires a fairly large space on a yacht. In many cases, a folding fence is used, as well as a removable safety net and flush-mounted lighting. Sometimes when a helicopter is employed, the yacht itself operates differently. For example, a hardtop on a 50-metre Westport Vango yacht folds up to 90 degrees, creating extra clearance, and also blocking the interaction of air flows between the rotor of the helicopter and the mast of the yacht.
The location of the helipad is usually determined by the aesthetics of the yacht design, and not by the potential hazards of turbulence and movement. Whether the owner chooses to locate it on the bow of the ship or at the stern, it has a strong influence on the layout of other decks. The bow position influences the structure less and provides a landing when the stern decks are used to relax the guests. However, landing there is generally not possible when the boat is moving.
As to the optimal size of the helipad, first of all, as a rule, helipads can appear on yachts not shorter than 45 meters LOA. For the helipads, designers have coined a term “non-obstacle length,” meaning a helipad should be 1.25 times longer than the tail rotor and the main rotor of the helicopter.
All in all, it is important for designers and shipbuilders to seek advice from aviation professionals as early as possible in order to avoid difficulties or make costly changes. It is also significant to keep in mind, how the owner plans to use a helicopter. For example, whether he or she needs to fly at night, or whether a helicopter requires maintenance or refuelling facilities on-board.
Italian marine manufacturers Castoldi and Nauta have developed the Jet Tender 34 Limo, marking Castoldi's first entry into the limousine tender segment. The 10.4-meter vessel will serve as ship-to-shore transportation for a new boutique cruise ship fleet under construction in Italy, with four limousine tenders and two support vessels ordered per vessel.Giacomo Castoldi, CEO of Castoldi, stated: "This project represents a new chapter for Castoldi that expands our offerings to new markets, while maintaining the commitment to innovation, quality, and luxury we are known for." The collaboration utilizes Castoldi's waterjet propulsion technology and semi-serial production capabilities combined with Nauta's design approach.Nauta Director Guido Valtorta noted: "Typically, limousine tenders are custom-made for large yachts, but this project allowed us to merge bespoke luxury with the efficiency of semi-serial production." The design incorporates multiple boarding points, configurable seating arrangements, and ceiling lighting systems aimed at creating spacious interior environments.Technical features include Castoldi's ACES electronic control system and waterjet propulsion designed for commercial vessel applications. The tender achieves cabin cooling within 15 minutes and incorporates noise-reduction systems within rub rails. The platform allows for Open Limo and Support Vessel configurations through modular design principles.The first unit is scheduled for delivery in late 2025, with project presentation planned for the Monaco Yacht Show. The tender measures 10.4 meters in length with limousine-style enclosed cabin accommodation. Production follows semi-serial methods rather than custom one-off construction, representing a new operational approach for Castoldi in this vessel category.The partnership combines Castoldi's marine engineering capabilities with Nauta's yacht design experience, targeting the growing market for luxury tender operations in cruise ship and superyacht sectors. The design emphasizes functional elements including pantry facilities and toilet accommodations within the compact hull form.Credits: Nauta
September 4, 2025
Extra Yachts has launched the X145 Global, a 44-meter explorer yacht designed for long-distance cruising. The steel-hulled vessel features an aluminum superstructure designed by Agon Studio, with interior spaces by Hot Lab.The yacht offers 4,000 nautical mile range with five deck levels and 9.1-meter beam while maintaining under 500 GT volume. The layout places all five guest cabins on the main deck utilizing maximum beam width, with an owner's private terrace on the bridge deck. Crew accommodations include four double cabins with ensuite bathrooms on the lower deck.Technical specifications include dual-mode hull design balancing performance and fuel efficiency. Storage capacity includes an 8.5-meter tender, rescue boat, two jet skis, and additional water toys in the aft garage. The beach club area provides 80 square meters of space with fold-down platforms and day facilities.Interior design incorporates large glazed surfaces, oriental-inspired details, and open-plan layouts emphasizing spatial perception. The upper deck features 360-degree viewing lounge with separated dining and seating areas connected by a central staircase.The X145 Global represents Extra Yachts' expansion into the explorer yacht segment, combining extended range capabilities with contemporary interior aesthetics. The design prioritizes crew operational areas with dedicated mess and laundry facilities alongside professional galley space.The yacht's configuration focuses on long-term autonomous operation with reduced fuel consumption parameters compared to traditional motor yachts of similar dimensions. The explorer market continues to show growth as owners seek vessels capable of extended itineraries with self-sufficient capabilities. Extra Yachts continues production at its Italian facilities, with the X145 Global positioning the brand in the 40-45 meter explorer segment. The company's product range includes both fiberglass and metal-hulled yachts with varying mission profiles from coastal cruising to global expedition capabilities.Extra Yachts specializes in the development of yachts with a strong personality. Its distinctive lines are combined in a variety of motor yacht models ranging from 76' to 130' and a 30-meter motor catamaran. Developed thanks to the advanced technical experience of ISA Yachts, Extra offers customers all the advantages of being part of the Palumbo Superyachts network.Credits: Extra Yachts
September 4, 2025
Cantieri di Pisa will participate in the Cannes Yachting Festival from September 9-14, 2025, marking its second appearance under current ownership. The company will display scale models of its Polaris, Saturno, and Akhir yacht lines at a Vieux Port exhibition space with private terrace.Cantieri di Pisa Custom 40mSince 2021 leadership under CEO Marco Massabò, the shipyard has expanded facilities and developed three new yacht ranges. The current product portfolio includes:Polaris voyager yachts from 38 to 60 metersSaturno models from 38 to 90 meters featuring updated traditional design elementsAkhir fast motor yachts reflecting the brand's historical design languageAll designs were developed under chief designer Antonio Luxardo in collaboration with m2atelier, Parisotto + Formenton, and Pulina Design Interiors.Akir 44The shipyard has commenced construction on a 40-meter custom steel-aluminum superyacht with under 500 GT volume. The design by Antonio Luxardo and engineering by Studio Sa.Ma.Re Design accommodates six guest cabins and eight crew members. The vessel targets worldwide cruising and charter operations.Akir 44The refit division reports five-fold revenue increase in 2024 compared to previous year, handling over 30 yacht refits totaling more than 1,500 meters in length during 2025. Facilities now cover 24,000 square meters with 300-ton travel lift and 670-ton waterlift capabilities. Staff includes 20 direct employees with plans to add approximately 12 additional professionals.Further infrastructure upgrades are planned, including crew accommodations and renovation of a 200-meter-long industrial shed covering 3,400 square meters. The shipyard maintains a supply chain network of 200-300 specialized contractors.Cantieri di Pisa Custom 40mCantieri di Pisa continues production at its historic facility while expanding both new construction and refit operations. The Cannes exhibition demonstrates the company's renewed market presence following ownership changes and facility investments completed since 2021.Cantieri di Pisa shipyard was founded in 1945 on the river Arno, the Tuscan shipyard became famous for its planing motoryachts, such as the Akhir and Kitalpha series designed by Pierluigi Spadolini. Since 2021 Enrico Gennasio is the new owner of Cantieri di Pisa.Credits: Cantieri di Pisa
September 4, 2025
Arcadia Yachts has launched the first unit of its A80new model from its Sorrento shipyard, with a third hull sold for delivery in 2026. The 23.98-meter yacht will make its official debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025.The design addresses Mediterranean cruising regulations including Posidonia Oceanica protection measures. The widebody configuration provides interior volumes comparable to larger yachts while maintaining under-24-meter classification. The layout includes a main deck master suite with direct sea access and four lower deck guest cabins. Crew accommodations consist of two double cabins with separate bathrooms.Technical features include solar panel systems and optimized energy management components. A stern garage accommodates tenders up to 3.95 meters or water toys. The design emphasizes compliance with environmental regulations while maintaining cruising capabilities in protected marine areas.Arcadia Yachts CEO Ugo Pellegrino stated: "A80new confirms the evolution of our products, a process that began two years ago with A96new. We want to continue to play a leading role in the development of yachting that respects nature, including underwater nature."The sale of the third hull to existing Arcadia owners demonstrates continued market demand for the yard's approach to midsize yacht construction. The model will compete in the under-24-meter segment against offerings from other Mediterranean shipyards.The Cannes Yachting Festival presentation will mark the first public showing of the A80new, following the company's pattern of introducing new models at major European boat shows. Arcadia Yachts continues production at its Naples-area facility, maintaining its focus on solar-assisted yacht systems and compliance with evolving environmental regulations.Arcadia Yachts is based in Naples, Italy. Since 2008, Arcadia Yachts has been building semi-custom luxury composite yachts and has succeeded in perfectly integrating artisanal craftsmanship, modern technologies, attention to detail and to the surrounding environment. The Arcadia Yachts fleet has included two ranges since September 2016. The shipyard’s first and most characterizing range is the A range, which includes four models (A85, A85s, A105 and A115). The Sherpa range has a new model, the 24m Sherpa XL, which was launched at the 2019 Cannes Yachting Festival. The new model, A96, debuted at 2023 Cannes Yachting Festival.Credits: Arcadia Yachts
September 3, 2025
The Azimut|Benetti Group forecasts €1.5 billion in revenue for the 2024/2025 nautical season, representing a 15% increase over previous results. The company's current order backlog totals €2.5 billion with production scheduled through 2029.Three strategic priorities guide the Group's operations: €115 million in infrastructure investments, expansion of product categories targeting both experienced and new-generation owners, and penetration of emerging markets. The company maintains geographically diversified orders with 38% from Europe, 31% from the Americas, and 31% from EMEA-APAC regions.Infrastructure developments include upgrades to the Avigliana production facility for yachts up to 28 meters, a Light Steel Hub for vessels under 45 meters, and a Composite Hub in Tuscany specializing in fiberglass and carbon fiber processing for megayachts. The Lusben refit division continues to expand its specialized service capabilities.Product innovation focuses on two primary segments: Azimut's Seadeck series emphasizing reduced environmental impact and the Grande series between 26-40 meters, alongside Benetti's Oasis and B.Yond families emphasizing connection with marine environments. The Group plans September introductions of new voyager-class yachts from Azimut and a new category combining motor yacht comfort with sailing inspirations from Benetti.Market expansion continues with new showrooms in Monaco adjacent to the Monaco Yacht Club and Fort Lauderdale's Pier Sixty-Six development. The Middle East represents the fastest-growing market, increasing from 23% to 31% of order portfolio, with Saudi Arabia generating over €300 million in sales during the past 24 months. New offices will open in Jeddah (Azimut) and Riyadh (Benetti).The Asia-Pacific region maintains established representation through direct offices and dealer networks across Japan, China, Australia, and Southeast Asian markets. Despite new import tariffs, the Americas remain a crucial market where the Group maintains leadership positions in multiple yacht categories.The Group's production infrastructure and order portfolio demonstrate continued resilience amid market fluctuations, with strategic investments targeting both operational efficiency and market expansion through fiscal year 2025/2026.Credits: Azimut|Benetti Group
September 3, 2025