Nautor’s Swan shared the interview with Roy Capasso, CEO ClubSwan Yachts Srl and Regional director Semea & Americas Nautor's Swan.
Roy Capasso
Roy, your experience in the motor yacht segment goes back 25 years now, plus six years in the sailing yachts sector. Can we have your opinion on the two worlds?
Sailing and power yacht owners share the same love and passion for the sea, but in different ways… I think this is an important point to start with.
We are talking about two completely distinct ways of going to sea, due first of all to a different knowledge of the products and their use, but also in terms of vocabulary. The words you use when talking about sailing are completely different to those used in motor yachting, and when I joined Nautor, it felt like I was starting again from scratch! The passage from motor to sailing was a big challenge in my career. It was difficult but very fulfilling.
Until ten years ago, the two sectors were completely separated. It was uncommon to find a power yacht owner switching to sail, and vice-versa. Sailing was conceived more as a lifestyle pursuit, enjoying the journey more than the destination. Owning a poweryacht was more considered as a synonym for comfort at the destination rather than the feeling of enjoying the ride.
Today the situation is changing, with more clients passing from one to the other, to enjoy a different experience.
Swan European Regatta
Roy, now that you have a complete overview of the Marine clients, those preferring sailing and those motoring. Can you please give us your opinion about it.
From my experience with typical Swan owners, “sailors” tend to be fully involved from day one. They go a bundle on the process of design, construction and customization solutions, not only for the interiors, but also for deck and sail plan specifications, manufacturing their own dream boat.
To match this, Nautor Swan’s strategy in terms of products, goes from full racers, with the ClubSwan yachts range, to the more bluewater cruiser and performance yachts, from the Swan Line up to the Swan Maxi. We offer a product that can answer almost every Owners’ requirements and give the full tailor-made experience.
The power yacht customers, on the other hand, are looking more for performance, comfort while at anchor, volume and storage – also for toys to enjoy their days at sea. The inclination is to recreate their home on the water – a kind of a "floating villa".
Lately both worlds are closely regarding each other to borrow solutions and ideas to use across sectors. The theme of sustainability and green sailing, for example, is one of these.
Sailing is by definition a very sustainable way to go to sea, but the first hybrid solutions were implemented on motoryachts. Now both sail and power are taking advantage of the developments made in this field and implementing them across the range, not only on yachts up to 24m.
The sailing yacht sector is now adopting more comfortable options in terms of volumes, accommodation and innovative solutions to enjoy a perfect stay at sea. Think about the opening transom acting as a beach club that we have on the Swan 55 and on the Swan Maxi, borrowed from motor yacht “cousins”.
When Nautor Swan launched the motor yacht division, which was the strategy?
The motor yacht division was born from the passion that Leonardo Ferragamo has for the marine world, and the Swan Shadow, the first motor yacht by Nautor, was meant to broaden the range of vessels we offer to our customers, perfectly aligned with the core elements of our DNA: Performance, Quality, Elegance, and Reliability. With the continuous interaction we have with our owners and discussion about the experience of sailing, we decided that it was time for a ‘chase boat’ to provide an added dimension to Swan yacht ownership. This was the starting point. By making a further analysis of the competitors we understood that most of the products currently on the market are limited to just a single specific usage of the boat. The Motor Yacht division by Swan aims to fill the void of a true multipurpose yacht range and aims to provide models that meet all owners’ needs, giving the opportunity to choose and change on demand the accessories that define their use.
Swan ShadowWhen designing the Swan Shadow and then the Swan OverShadow, what aspects of the sailing world have been taken into consideration and used as a source of inspiration?
Nautor’s Design DNA is built on a strong heritage and the motor yacht division has to meet the expectations of a clientele accustomed to luxury and performance sailing yachts. The design of Shadow and OverShadow incorporates features that customers might generally expect to see in larger full-custom or semi-custom yachts. Together with Jarkko Jamsén, our designer, we studied the main design features of ClubSwan Yachts, and incorporated them into our power boat range. We wanted to create something sporty and fun, without compromising on the elegance that customers expect from a yacht branded Swan.
Now on top of the experience you gained, what is your feeling about the market trends in the next five years?
These days there is a great attention and commitment towards the world around us. There is a tendency to study and develop efficient hulls allowing reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Many shipyards are introducing new hybrid and electric models with eco-friendly materials onboard, offering a luxury object with an ethical provenance.
The green approach complements the trend to have a user-friendly boat, to be easily managed when cruising and especially docking.
Also, with the spread of the pandemic and the need for remote working, owners have become fond of having a floating home where they can conduct their daily activities – both professional and personal. A yacht represents the perfect means of escape and exploration but also serves as a place to work and live, assuring total privacy, comfort, and protection.
The communications systems onboard will become more technically advanced with lower costs, enhancing the potential for conducting business as well as enhancing leisure time onboard.
Design-wise, priorities will move towards increased hull volumes for both comfort and more storage space. Opening sterns in order to facilitate more enjoyment and the feeling of being closer to the water, modular spaces for more flexibility of use onboard, usage of glass for natural light – these are just few of the ‘must-haves’ in the upcoming models.
Nautor’s Swan was founded in 1966 in Pietarsaari, Finland. The builder entered the superyacht market in 1999. Since then, the yard has continued building high-performance sailing yachts in three different lines; ClubSwan, Swan Yachts and Maxi Swan Yachts.
Credits: Nautor’s Swan
Antonini Navi introduces the Sport Utility Yacht – SUY 135, a groundbreaking vessel conceived by Aldo Manna, Partner and Sales Director, along with designer Fulvio De Simoni. Moravia Yachts has been appointed as Central Agency. Hull number #1 is already in construction with delivery slated for 2026.As part of Antonini Navi's broader vision, the SUY 135 is a precursor to the SUY 190 and SUY 108, forming a comprehensive lineup of versatile superyachts designed to navigate deep waters while embracing luxury and environmental harmony.Currently under construction at the shipyard in Italy, the SUY 135 spans 44 meters in length and boasts approximately 480GT. This steel displacement motor yacht marks the debut of Antonini Navi's Sports Utility Yachts – SUY series.Designed by Fulvio de Simoni with naval architecture by Studio Arrabito, the SUY 135 seamlessly blends superyacht elegance with unparalleled world-cruising capabilities."The SUY offers limitless experiences, akin to an SUV in the automotive realm," remarks Aldo Manna. "It's designed to enable owners and guests to fully immerse themselves in yachting, equipped with toys, amenities, and tenders for a myriad of recreational activities."Alessandro Diomedi of Moravia Yachting expresses pride in representing Antonini Navi's SUY series, highlighting its innovation and voluminous capacity for water toys while prioritizing owner privacy and lifestyle.The SUY 135's flexible design allows for extensive internal and external customization, featuring a main and upper deck linked by a raised deck with five guest cabins. The owner's suite, spanning 56 square meters, resides on the main deck, offering luxurious seclusion.External spaces include a 40-square-meter veranda for al fresco dining and a 35-square-meter beach club with a transom hot tub. The sun deck boasts panoramic views, a second hot tub, and ample relaxation areas.Equipped with a transversal tender garage and achieving a range of 4,000 nautical miles at 10 knots cruising speed, the SUY 135 sets new standards in environmental consciousness.The Pertusola shipyard in the Gulf of La Spezia was bought by Walter Antonini in 1977. Since then, Antonini Navi has been a family-held leader in superyacht custom build and refitting.Credits: Antonini Navi
April 18, 2024
In a remarkable display of innovation and engineering prowess, eD-TEC's groundbreaking eD 32 c-Ultra high-performance all-electric RIB has successfully completed its first sea trials after just nine months of intensive development. These trials, conducted in the Adriatic Sea near Punat, Croatia, mark a significant milestone in the advancement of electric boating technology.At the heart of the eD 32 c-Ultra lies eD-TEC's revolutionary Technology Stack, seamlessly integrated with twin plug-and-play eD-QDrive 200kW propulsion units, driving surface-piercing propellers. With a net battery capacity of 105kWh, this blank-sheet design sets new standards in the industry, delivering exceptional performance, stability, and manoeuvrability.During the trials, dubbed as an engineering feat, the eD 32 c-Ultra demonstrated remarkable capabilities, boasting a 25-knot cruise and an impressive range of over 40 nautical miles. These results underscore the vessel's potential to revolutionize the marine industry, offering an environmentally friendly alternative without compromising on performance.Michael Jost, founder of eD-TEC, expressed optimism about the vessel's future, stating, "We are thrilled with the initial performance of the eD 32 c-Ultra during its maiden sea trials. Preliminary estimates indicate a range of 20 to 40 nautical miles and a current cruising speed of 25 knots, with anticipated improvements to reach approximately 30 knots."Furthermore, the trials provided valuable insights into optimizing the vessel's efficiency and performance. Adaptive steering, inspired by automotive systems, and innovative hydrodynamic design elements were highlighted as areas for refinement to enhance stability and reduce power consumption.Looking ahead, eD-TEC remains committed to pushing the boundaries of electric boating technology. Plans for a two-week Booster Sprint, focused on software optimization and charging efficiency, aim to further enhance the vessel's capabilities.Philipp Lehr and Marc Jost, project leads for the eD 32 c-Ultra, expressed satisfaction with the trials, emphasizing the vessel's reliability and performance. "After approximately 500 kWh, we have encountered no system disruptions thus far, and all temperatures have remained within optimal ranges," they reported.As the eD 32 c-Ultra continues its journey towards commercialization, eD-TEC remains dedicated to pioneering sustainable solutions for the marine industry. With ambitious plans for future developments, including solar-centric off-grid solutions, the company is poised to revolutionize the concept of luxury shoreside living and on-water escapes.Indeed, the eD 32 c-Ultra represents not just a vessel but the beginning of a new era in electric boating, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable marine transportation.Credits: eD-TEC
April 18, 2024
Feadship's highly anticipated Project 1012 has emerged from the construction shed at the Makkum facility, marking a significant milestone as the yacht prepares for sea trials ahead of its delivery. Notably, Project 1012 is the first Feadship vessel to boast full Hybrid Electric Class notation.Designed by Sinot and the owner's design office, with naval architecture by Feadship De Voogt Naval Architects, Project 1012 was commissioned by a seasoned Feadship owner with a wealth of yachting experience. The yacht's exterior styling reflects meticulous design with precise input from the owner, while the interior promises to be a beautifully crafted and meticulously detailed family retreat.Measuring an impressive 91.80 meters, Project 1012 boasts crisply chamfered exterior contours complemented by a traditional flared bow, creating a modern-classic ambiance. Despite its generous volume, the interior is thoughtfully designed to provide intimate spaces for family gatherings, featuring natural materials and finishes throughout.One of the owner's key desires was to enhance the yacht's beach club, which now spans a quarter of the lower deck's total length. With a vast, fixed stern platform and two fold-down platforms, the beach club offers an expansive 165 square meters of water-level lounging space. Additionally, a side-loading garage between the engine room and beach club can accommodate two 10-meter tenders, a ski boat, and various water toys.The main deck aft boasts a large pool and open-air lounge, while comfortable guest suites and staff cabins adorn the main deck forward. The upper decks house the master stateroom, family lounge, and wellness area, while the sundeck offers a prime observation point with forward-facing seating and sun loungers.Project 1012's propulsion system integrates cutting-edge Feadship technology, featuring two main engines, shaft-driven fixed pitch propellers, and PTO/PTI electric motors coupled with 1MW of Li-ion batteries. This innovative setup allows for both conventional diesel propulsion and electric motor operation, providing enhanced efficiency and reduced environmental impact.Albert Abma, Feadship project manager, expresses his satisfaction with the collaboration, stating, "Working with the experienced owner, designers, and owners team has been a professional pleasure. Gathering the operational experience of the owners team with the yard’s building experience has resulted in this modern-classic, state-of-art and full custom new Feadship."Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
April 18, 2024
Sanlorenzo is set to grace the British Motor Yacht Show for the first time from May 16th to 19th, 2024. Attendees of the event, hosted at Swanwick Marina in Southampton, will have the exclusive opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Sanlorenzo. From its cutting-edge design to its unparalleled craftsmanship and extensive customization options, visitors can explore the elegance and sophistication synonymous with the brand.SL90ASanlorenzo Yachts UK will showcase the magnificent Sanlorenzo SL90A, a 28-meter vessel that will also be the largest yacht on display at the four-day show. Nick Hatfield, Sales Manager at Sanlorenzo Yachts UK, expressed excitement about the debut, stating, "We’re delighted to be bringing one of our stunning Sanlorenzo yachts to the British Motor Yacht Show for the first time. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the true meaning of customization and understand Sanlorenzo’s ethos of innovative design, tailored to the requirements and desires of each individual owner."Designed by Bernardo Zuccon, the SL90A boasts an elegant and modern interior, featuring a harmonious blend of different wood, marble, and fabric textures. The innovative Asymmetric design, highlighted by the A in SL90A, elevates the yacht's interior volume, enhancing the main deck saloon's connection with the sea through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.BG42Accommodating up to eight guests in four well-appointed staterooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom, the SL90A offers comfort and style ideal for family gatherings or entertaining friends.Crafted by Sanlorenzo Yacht at its Ameglia base in Italy, this class-leading yacht offers a timeless aesthetic while pushing the boundaries of conventional design.In addition to the SL90A, Sanlorenzo Yachts UK will also present the BG42 from Bluegame, a brand under the Sanlorenzo umbrella. Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length. Credits: maa.agency; Yacht Harbour archive
April 17, 2024
Lady A, the distinguished 55.2-meter motor yacht crafted by Nishii Zosen-Sterling, has found a new owner after just a year on the market. Simon Goldsworthy of Edmiston facilitated the sale, representing both the seller and the buyer in this transaction.Originally christened Southern Cross III, Lady A boasts a timeless design conceived by the renowned Jon Bannenberg and was meticulously constructed by Japanese shipyard Nishii Zosen-Sterling in 1986. Undergoing a significant transformation in 2017, the vessel underwent extensive refurbishments valued at over €12 million, including a complete interior overhaul, an expansion of the upper deck, and the installation of state-of-the-art Quantum zero-speed stabilizers.Lady A's upper aft deck has been elegantly extended to serve as the primary sunbathing area, featuring plush sofas, inviting armchairs, and a spacious alfresco dining spot accommodating up to 14 guests. Awnings can be swiftly erected by the crew to provide shelter from the sun.The interior layout is equally captivating, with the main lounge situated on the upper level, offering a relaxed ambiance with sliding glass doors, a raised reading nook, and a well-appointed bar. The vessel's unique design includes a split-level observation lounge boasting breathtaking 180-degree vistas.Ample accommodation is provided for up to 12 guests across six cabins, including a lavish owner's suite with a private office, three double guest cabins, a VIP guest cabin, and a twin guest cabin. The interior, masterfully refurbished by Design Unlimited, showcases walnut cabinetry, solid timber floors, and a soothing palette accented with mauve hues.Lady A is propelled by two rebuilt 3516B Caterpillar diesel engines, boasting a cruising speed of 13 knots. Currently located in Italy, the yacht was last listed at €7,900,000 with VAT paid.Credits: Yacht Harbour archive
April 17, 2024