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
The 50-meter Heesen motor yacht Bijin has completed a comprehensive refit at Monaco Marine's La Seyne-sur-Mer facility. Formerly named Sibelle, the vessel was sold in October 2024 with Burgess representing the buyer and Ocean Independence the seller.The nine-month project involved exterior repainting from oyster white and grey to Matterhorn white with jet black accents and a red boot stripe. Interior updates focused on Japandi-inspired design elements blending Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian influences. Milan-based studio Hot Lab led the design in collaboration with Austrian contractors List GC.Hot Lab design director Enrico Lumini stated: "Their hands-on involvement and constructive approach were instrumental in helping us navigate challenges and complete the project within the established timeframe." The owners maintained an active role throughout the process, having previously worked with the design studio.Refit work concentrated on soft furnishings including beds, headboards, curtains, carpets, and loose furniture rather than structural modifications. The color palette shifted toward lighter tones and softer brown shades to create what the owner described as "an organic, naturally blending and appealing design" for guest relaxation.Originally delivered in 2015 with a Fast Displacement Hull Form design, Bijin received recognition at the 2016 World Superyacht Awards. The yacht accommodates 10 guests with an owner's suite featuring dual bathrooms serving as buffer zones before the main cabin.Monaco Marine project manager Augustin Fabre noted the refit met "the most demanding standards" for visual identity and functionality. The yacht will operate for both private use and charter in the Western Mediterranean, with initial seasons fully booked.The refit demonstrates continued market activity in large yacht refurbishment projects, particularly for well-maintained vessels requiring aesthetic updates rather than technical overhauls. The collaboration between ownership, design teams, and shipyard resulted in a nine-month completion timeline.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.Credits: Viken Group
August 29, 2025
Azimut has developed Neuron, a fully digital yacht management system designed to streamline vessel operation and maintenance. The system was created by Azimut Technical Development in partnership with MDP Tech following a six-month trial installation aboard an Azimut Fly 53 model.Neuron enables remote monitoring and control of onboard systems including lighting, climate control, and entertainment through a customizable interface. The system reduces routine and extraordinary maintenance requirements by approximately 70% through continuous diagnostics and remote troubleshooting capabilities. According to the company, the technology allows after-sales technicians to perform system diagnostics while maintaining customer privacy protections.Technical specifications include a 50% reduction in wiring weight compared to conventional systems, freeing space for other functions. The plug-and-play architecture permits rapid component replacement, starting with control units. Power management features adjust electricity consumption based on real-time requirements.Azimut Technical Director Ruggero Gandolfi stated: "Neuron truly improves the owner's life, not only allowing them to monitor their vessel from home and directly manage certain systems with great ease, but also performing diagnostic tests and reducing unscheduled maintenance."The system is scheduled to become standard equipment on Azimut models up to 24 meters (80 feet) following final verification testing. The development represents Azimut's continued investment in digitalization projects aimed at enhancing owner experience and operational efficiency.Neuron's architecture incorporates risk analysis protocols to minimize system disruptions both at sea and in port. The technology will be rolled out across Azimut's production lines as part of the company's ongoing digital transformation initiatives in yacht manufacturing and support services.Azimut, founded in 1969 by Paolo Vitelli and part of the Azimut|Benetti Group, builds motor yachts from 42 to 144 feet across seven series. The company maintains production facilities in five Italian locations and one in Brazil, and has a global network of sales and service centres.Credits: Azimut
August 29, 2025
Italian yacht builder Sanlorenzo will display ten vessels with combined length of nearly 300 meters at the Cannes Yachting Festival from September 9-14, 2025. The exhibition will feature three global premieres: the SL110A, SX120, and SD132 models, representing expansions of the company's asymmetric, crossover, and semi-displacement yacht lines.SL110AThe 33-meter SL110A continues Sanlorenzo's asymmetrical design concept with a full-beam owner's suite featuring direct access to a forward pool area. Designed by Zuccon International Project with interiors by Piero Lissoni, the vessel reaches speeds up to 27 knots.The SX120 crossover model blends explorer yacht capabilities with flybridge amenities, featuring clean exterior lines and flexible interior layouts. The design maintains the brand's focus on challenging conventional yacht layouts while emphasizing connection to marine environments.SX120At 40.7 meters length, the SD132 becomes Sanlorenzo's largest composite-built yacht to date with 420 GT interior volume. Features include rotating beach club terraces, forward pool area, 85-square-meter flybridge, and side-launching tender garage. Zuccon International Project handled both exterior and interior design.Executive Chairman Massimo Perotti stated: "The Cannes Yachting Festival is a special opportunity for us to share our vision for the future of the industry and to showcase Sanlorenzo's extraordinary dynamism." CEO Tommaso Vincenzi added: "With these three new models, Sanlorenzo reaffirms its vision of yachting as a fine, elegant and responsible way of life."SD132Additional displayed models will include the SP92 from the Smart Performance line, SL86A and SL90A asymmetric yachts, SD90 and SD96 semi-displacement vessels, and SX100 and SX88 crossover designs. The exhibition coincides with the 20th anniversary of Massimo Perotti's leadership at Sanlorenzo.The company's subsidiary brands Bluegame and Nautor Swan will also exhibit new models at the festival, demonstrating the group's diversified product range across multiple yacht segments. Sanlorenzo's presentation occupies significant space in the Vieux-Port exhibition area, reflecting the company's expanded production capabilities across its Italian shipyards.Credits: Sanlorenzo
August 29, 2025
Northrop & Johnson has listed the newly delivered 28.63-meter Sunreef Power catamaran Petite Belle for sale. Broker Gabriele Modica Ragusa represents the fifth hull in this series, which features numerous upgrades from standard specifications.The catamaran's 13.5-meter beam accommodates 10 guests across five ensuite cabins. The main saloon features panoramic glazing that opens to the aft cockpit, integrating interior and exterior social spaces. Outdoor areas include forward lounges, a beach club platform, and an expansive flybridge with hot tub, dining area, and bar.Petite Belle incorporates 13kWp of solar panels integrated into the superstructure and hardtop, supporting silent night operation through battery power. The yacht meets European and U.S. compliance standards including Malta Sea Area A1+A2+A3 certification (sCYC 2024).Additional features include a full AV system with DJ connectivity, 20 underwater lights, security cameras, and custom bar installations. The vessel carries a Williams SportJet 625 tender and two jet skis.Construction was supervised by independent surveyors at Sunreef's Gdansk facility. The catamaran enters the brokerage market immediately following delivery, offering availability without construction wait times. Northrop & Johnson will coordinate viewings and sea trials for prospective buyers.Sunreef Yachts was founded by Francis Lapp in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland. Since then, the shipyard has been designing and manufacturing luxury sailing and power multihulls. Credits: Sunreef Yachts
August 28, 2025
Italian yacht builder Lomac Milano has named fashion designer Alessandro Martorana as Creative Director of its Lomac Atelier division. The appointment coincides with the world premiere of the GranTurismo 12.5 AMare limited edition model at the 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival.Martorana's collaboration with Lomac represents the first product from the newly established Lomac Atelier, a service dedicated to fully customized yacht configurations. The GranTurismo 12.5 AMare features customized colors, bespoke upholstery, sartorial stitching, and matching engine livery. The design emphasizes individualized styling while maintaining the performance characteristics of the base model.The limited edition model is powered by twin Yamaha XTO 450hp outboard engines, maintaining the standard powertrain configuration of the production version. Lomac will display two additional models at Cannes: the GranTurismo 12.0 with triple 300hp Mercury engines and the flagship GranTurismo 14.0 X with triple Yamaha 450hp engines capable of 60-knot speeds.Alessandro Martorana stated: "The boat is the new 'must' for the elegant man. Together with Lomac, we aim to create unique pieces that reflect the personality of their owners, just like a bespoke suit."The Lomac Atelier service launched earlier this year at the Düsseldorf boat show, focusing on complete customization of the company's GranTurismo maxi-RIB series. The Cannes presentation marks the first physical realization of the program, with the AMare edition serving as demonstrator of the customization options available.Lomac's participation in the Cannes Yachting Festival includes three models from its production range, with the Martorana-designed limited edition representing the company's emphasis on personalized yacht design. Lomac was founded in the early 1960s in Milan. Today it is led by Paolo and Fabrizio Lo Manto, the third generation of the family, and offers a production that includes seven different series for 58 models, the result of the union of the highest technologies with careful craftsmanship. Lomac also produces and markets a wide range of original accessories to better customize your boat, and maintenance products created specifically for its models.Credits: Lomac
August 28, 2025