Navier, a Bay Area-based start-up building electric hydrofoiling watercraft, is announcing a $7.2M seed raise. Co-founded by MIT alumni Sampriti Bhattacharyya, PhD (CEO) and Reo Baird (CTO), Navier is building a new type of watercraft that cuts running costs by 90%. Navier’s approach combines hydrofoils, electrification, advanced composites and an intelligent software system. By unlocking an order-of-magnitude reduction in the cost of operating watercraft.
Boats are going electric and in recent times there have been a few venture backed start-ups working on marine electrification. But the biggest struggle in public adoption is the limited range for electric boats. By using electric hydrofoiling technology, the boats built by Navier eliminate the high hydrodynamic drag and aim to be the longest range electric vessels on the market at high speeds, achieving a 75 nautical miles range at 20 knots.
Reo Baird and Sampriti Bhattacharyya
“Navier is much more than an electric upgrade. We are fundamentally rethinking the boat as we know it. Hydrofoils not only allow electric boats to attain a practical range at high speeds, but they drastically reduce the operational cost of a vessel by a factor of 10X when compared to traditional boats with combustion engines. In addition, they deliver a vastly superior ride quality that eliminates sea-sickness since you’re foiling over the waves,” said Sampriti Bhattacharyya, co-founder and CEO of Navier.
Navier is perfecting its core foil control technology with the Navier 27 (N27), a recreational vessel. However, Navier’s longer term vision is to expand into solving the pressing issue of congestion in coastal cities by building robotaxis on the water.
“Hydrofoil craft are not new, but limitations in technology have restricted their performance and applicability. Hydrofoil craft are analogous to dynamically unstable aircraft, such as the F-35, so intelligent electronic control systems are required for flight. Solving this problem requires collaboration between experts in maritime, robotics and aerospace engineering to bring novel approaches to the challenges. Our team is developing a next-generation foil control system that will achieve unprecedented performance over a wide range of sea conditions,” added Reo Baird, Navier CTO.
Navier 27 sold out its first year of production (15 vessels) within two months of product announcement, and has a massive volume of inbound interest. Navier has also partnered with iconic boatbuilder Lyman-Morse to fulfill the first year of production for the Navier 27. The first two hulls of the model are currently under construction at the Lyman-Morse facility in Maine. The company plans to ramp up production to 400+ units by 2024.
Credits: Navier
As 2025 begins, Southern Wind has announced significant developments, including the introduction of its new flagship, the SW123, alongside three additional yachts currently under construction.The SW123 represents Southern Wind’s largest and most advanced yacht to date. Designed by Farr Yacht Design for naval architecture and Nauta Design for exterior and interior styling, the SW123 combines performance, sophistication, and a focus on responsible design. As a customizable platform, it aims to deliver long-range cruising capabilities with comfort and luxury. Construction of the first SW123 is underway, with a scheduled launch in February 2027. The yacht will also be available for charter, reflecting the owners’ intent to share their passion for sailing.Southern Wind’s shipyard in Cape Town is currently managing a robust order book for 2025, with four yachts under construction:SW108#03: Scheduled for launch in November 2025, this third unit in the SW108 series builds on the success of its predecessors, including the regatta-winning SW108#01 Gelliceaux. It is designed for superyacht racing and global cruising, tailored for a youthful and dynamic owner.SW96#06: Launching in May 2026, this sixth unit in the SW96 series integrates speed and elegance. Commissioned by an experienced sailor, the yacht is optimized for both offshore and coastal racing and will debut in regattas in 2026.SW100X#01: The first yacht in the new SW100X miniseries, set to launch in October 2026, introduces a modern crossover concept. Key features include a 20.2 sqm Seaside Lounge that connects directly to the sea. This yacht is designed for versatility, offering comfort and performance with easy handling for reduced crew operations.Southern Wind’s "Smart Custom" approach, blending tailored customization with proven platforms, continues to attract owners seeking reliable, high-performance yachts that align with their personal sailing aspirations. The strong order book for 2025 underscores the resonance of this concept within the sailing community.These developments reflect Southern Wind’s commitment to advancing luxury yacht design while maintaining the core values that define its reputation in the industry.Credit: Southern Wind
January 17, 2025
Silent Yachts is preparing for a busy year in 2025, building on significant achievements in 2024. The company delivered six SY62 models over the past year and plans to increase output by 50% in 2025, including the launch of its new flagship, the SY80. The shipyard in Fano, Italy, is operating at full capacity, with seven yachts in advanced stages of construction and scheduled for delivery in the first half of the year.Under new management since March 2024, Silent Yachts implemented a modular construction system at its shipyard. This approach allows yacht modules to be built simultaneously and assembled in the final production phase, streamlining the process and improving efficiency. The company now achieves a production rate of one yacht per month. According to CEO Fabrizio Iarrera, this restructuring played a pivotal role in the company’s successful year, marked by the delivery of the triple-deck SY62 and its global debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival.Silent Yachts expanded its visibility in 2024 through participation in several prominent boat shows, including its first appearance at the Venice Boat Show and the debut of the SY62 3-Deck Open at Cannes, where it won the "Most Efficient Yacht" award at the World Yachts Trophies. The company also increased its presence in the US, opening a new commercial office at Fort Lauderdale’s Safe Harbor Marine Center to strengthen its sales and after-sales support.The year also saw the establishment of a dedicated Silent Yachts charter network, with operations in the Caribbean and the western Mediterranean, offering potential customers the chance to experience its yachts firsthand. A 10-day sea trial program in the Bahamas highlighted the compatibility of Silent Yachts with environmentally sensitive areas, thanks to their low draft and silent electric propulsion systems.Silent Yachts is set to continue its international outreach in 2025. The SY62 3-Deck Open will be on display at the Palm Beach International Boat Show from March 19–23. The SY62 3-Deck Closed, featuring an enclosed upper deck with panoramic views, will make its debut at the Singapore Yachting Festival from April 10–13. In addition, the SY80 flagship is scheduled for launch later this year.Looking further ahead, Silent Yachts is collaborating with superyacht designers Nuvolari Lenard on a new 70-footer expected to launch in 2026. According to Iarrera, the company remains committed to innovation and is working on new models while expanding its presence in key markets.Credit: Silent Yachts
January 17, 2025
Ferretti Group will mark the start of 2025 with the unveiling of the Riva Iseo Super at boot Düsseldorf, the world’s largest indoor boat show, scheduled from January 18 to 26. The event will feature six yachts from the Group, highlighting its recent developments.Ferretti Yachts 500The Riva Iseo Super will debut as an updated 27-foot runabout, designed to build on the features of its predecessor. This model incorporates new technical elements and design refinements aimed at enhancing the cruising experience.Riva El-IseoThe Ferretti Group’s exhibit will also include the Ferretti Yachts 500, a flybridge model focused on comfort and functionality; the Dolceriva, a 48-foot open yacht with a contemporary design approach; the Riva El-Iseo, the company’s first fully electric powerboat; the Pershing GTX80, introducing a new concept in sport yachts; and the wallytender48, a tender designed with an emphasis on utility and performance, displayed at the Wally stand in Halle 6.Pershing GTX80A press conference is scheduled for January 18 at 11 am at stand 6D28 in Halle 6, where further updates on the Group’s projects and future plans will be shared.Ferretti Group’s presentation will be accompanied by collaborations with brands including Range Rover, providing a ride service for visitors, and Flexjet, representing business aviation. Additional partnerships with Dolce&Gabbana, Lavazza, La Scolca, and Seabob, among others, aim to complement the Group’s presence at the event. These partners will showcase products tailored to the event’s atmosphere, such as custom-designed uniforms, wine selections, and specialty coffee.wallytender48The event offers an opportunity to observe Ferretti Group’s latest offerings and collaborations, presenting a snapshot of its activities within the yachting industry.The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credits: Ferretti Group
January 17, 2025
The latest Amels 80 superyacht has arrived at Damen Yachting's Vlissingen, Netherlands facility, marking a key milestone in its construction. Following its recent launch at Damen Yachting's Galati, Romania hull building facility, the 80-meter Amels Limited Editions yacht is now ready for the outfitting phase.This arrival signifies the commencement of the next stage of the build process, highlighting the continued popularity and success of the Amels 80 design. The extensive outfitting work will be carried out at Damen Yachting's Vlissingen East shipyard, a state-of-the-art facility located just 3 nautical miles from the Vlissingen City yard. This shipyard plays a vital role in Damen Yachting's new build and refit operations.This specific Amels 80 is the third currently undergoing outfitting and is scheduled for delivery in 2026. Further details about the project remain confidential at this time.Damen Yachting, a division within the Damen Shipyards Group, was created in 2019. The division combines the pedigree and heritage of Amels yachts with a growing portfolio of SeaXplorer yachts and Yacht Support vessels.Credits: Damen Yachting
January 16, 2025
Dutch Design has unveiled the Sea Rover, a groundbreaking 42.5-meter superyacht concept billed as the world's first wellness-focused vessel. Developed in collaboration with superyacht owner Scott Blum and designer Bernd Weel (renowned for the award-winning Lady Fleur), the Sea Rover represents a limited semi-custom series of just ten yachts. Blum's inspiration stemmed from a lack of superyachts catering to a healthy, balanced lifestyle.This philosophy is evident in the yacht's abundant wellness amenities. Unlike traditional layouts, the spa, gym, and sports court are prominently positioned on the bridge deck. The spa boasts a dual-temperature plunge pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, infrared therapy wall, and massage area. The adaptable sports court caters to pickleball, basketball, paddle tennis, volleyball, or general fitness, doubling as storage for water toys, tenders, and even a car.Accommodation includes five cabins, highlighted by a full-beam owner's suite on the main deck featuring an expansive closet and a luxurious Japanese onsen-style tub and steam room. Nine crew members enjoy quarters finished to the same high standards as the guest cabins, separate from the captain's cabin on the bridge. While interior renderings remain confidential, the design emphasizes a beachy Californian aesthetic with natural wood, stone, and earthen-toned textiles.A central staircase, starting as a sculptural glass table on the sundeck, dramatically illuminates the lower decks. Large glass panels in the dining area provide panoramic views, seamlessly merging with the galley and entertainment space to create a vibrant "grand room" fostering interaction between guests, chef, and crew. A spacious beach club completes the experience, offering a dining table, sunbeds, wet bar, and ample storage.Blum emphasizes the yacht's unique integration of travel and well-being, describing it as an investment that will retain its value. Weel highlights the design's timeless appeal, achieved by prioritizing essential features and creating a classic, clean, and distinctly Dutch aesthetic, effectively condensing the grandeur of much larger yachts into a more intimate yet comprehensively luxurious experience.Credits: Dutch Design
January 16, 2025