Co-founder and CEO of BYD Group Tià Simó discusses current trends, their work process and their most exciting projects in an exclusive interview for Yacht Harbour.
Tià Simó
How did you start working in the industry?
I started studying Naval Architecture in Madrid and then moved to Southampton. While I was in Southampton, I did a summer Internship in a yacht design office in Barcelona in 2000… I can’t believe that was 21 years ago! Since then I’ve been fully immersed in the yacht design and engineering industry. We started BYD in 2004, and I have to say that I’m very happy and feel fortunate to be doing what I like.
What part of the work do you like in particular?
The best part is the general ideation of the project. Making all the components fit in one unique yacht which fully satisfies the aesthetic of the Client’s expectations, as well as my own. It's a very creative phase that combines design; engineering; new technologies; and many meetings with clients and producers, where we offer our ideas and thoughts and we also get a lot of input from our clients that push the design to the limits; we learn a lot from our colleagues, providers and collaborators. It's really exciting. The detailing phase is also exciting, when we design every little detail… The entire process is exciting, really. The only thing that’s not so exciting is the paperwork!
Elfje
Having decades of experience and supporting yachts through their entire life cycle, you must have a really unique perspective on boats, being able to lead a project from earliest sketches, through construction and delivery, to refits and upgrades, to make it an embodiment of fresh ideas once again.
Now I can say I have a little experience, and I learn and try to improve everyday, through new technologies, processes and software. A professional is someone who has already made most of their mistakes and knows how to avoid them. I learn a lot from my partner Raul and from my team, colleagues and collaborators.
Raùl Gonzalo
The pandemic shook up all fields of business a lot, including the yacht industry, but it seems like BYD Group has no shortage of good news. How do you adapt to the new realities?
At the beginning of the pandemic we were all scared of the situation, and some projects were put on hold. Everything was a bit uncertain, but after the summer, everything kicked off and we have nothing to complain about.
What projects are you especially proud of?
My best project is BYD Group, having our own firm designing yachts makes me really proud. Within this, there are a few projects that stand out in my mind. On the one hand, the Brand V2 Boats, which we created some years ago, are small simple boats that allow us to design, build and own our own boats. That is very satisfying, designing and building my own boat. It's a fantastic project. Also, now we are working hard in renewable energy and sustainable yachting, and projects like the Bravo 75, the Eegle 20m under construction, or the Aquon One are very satisfying.
Eegle, a fully electric 20m luxury yacht
Can you tell more about current and future projects?
Right now we are working hard on a new tender project for superyachts. The 9m Tender Foil Assisted Catamaran is really fascinating, and we are working together with a professional superyacht crew to make it tailored for them. We are combining hi-tech design and materials with knowledge from all sides. We are also working on naval architecture.
Tià Simó
How do you see current trends of the yachting industry?
The yachting industry is growing in size tremendously. Larger and larger boats are being built every year. The quality we are seeing is astonishing. We now need to make it a bit more sustainable. Up to now, sustainability has not been a factor in the yacht industry, but we, the designers and builders, need to push to have a more efficient and sustainable future on our seas. It's in our hands to maintain our environment, our sea, to be able to enjoy yachting.
BYD is working very successfully with all kinds of yachts – motor and sailing, big and small. Do you have any personal preference?
Every project is a challenge, and each of them has its own special interest. Personally, I love the sleek and sexy lines of sailboats, but I really enjoy the creative process on a large yacht, defining interior and exterior spaces, being an Architect a Designer and a Engineer at the same time, as well as feeling the performance and adrenaline of a small powerboat… it’s a hard choice.
The Bravo Yacht Design Group, or BYD Group (previously known as Barcelona Yacht Design Group), was founded in 2004 and is managed by Tià Simó and Raúl Gonzalo. Based in the Spanish yachting hubs of Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, it offers a complete design and naval architecture service for new construction, as well as refits, working in partnership with yacht builders or directly with yacht owners themselves.
Credits: BYD Group
The first unit of the Ferretti Yachts 800 was launched on July 18 at the company's Cattolica shipyard. Measuring 24.47 meters in length with a 5.91-meter beam, the model completes the brand's flybridge range renewal initiated in 2018.Developed by Ferretti Group's Engineering Department and the Strategic Product Committee chaired by Piero Ferrari, the yacht features exterior design by architect Filippo Salvetti and interiors by Ideaeitalia. A version with shortened swim platform (maintaining 24-meter overall length) will be available for French market compliance.The main deck incorporates a 7-square-meter beach area with glass parapet, connecting to a crew section with three cabins accessible via portside walkway. Interior spaces feature 2-meter ceilings and extensive glazing, with the showcased unit displaying Classic styling with warm tones. The layout includes a living area with corner sofa, separate dining space with galley access, and isolated crew circulation paths.Accommodations comprise a master suite, VIP cabin, and two guest cabins totaling eight berths, all with en-suite bathrooms. The 40-square-meter flybridge offers an al fresco dining area, bar unit, and flexible aft lounge space.The inaugural unit is powered by twin 1800 hp MAN V12 engines, achieving a top speed of 31 knots and cruising at 27 knots. 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
July 24, 2025
Sanlorenzo will debut its new 33-meter SL110A motor yacht at the Cannes Yachting Festival from September 9-14, 2025. The vessel represents the latest iteration of the shipyard's asymmetrical design series, following previous SL102A and SL106A models.Developed in collaboration with Zuccon International Project for exterior design and Piero Lissoni for interiors, the SL110A combines structural innovation with performance capabilities reaching 27 knots. The asymmetrical hull configuration provides 15% more interior volume compared to conventional designs through strategic spatial planning, including staggered port and starboard gangways that maximize usable area."The asymmetry is not just aesthetic: it unlocks greater interior space, uninterrupted views, and a feeling of openness that transforms life on board," stated Sanlorenzo CEO Tommaso Vincenzi.The yacht's redesigned bow area replaces traditional anchor storage with an integrated sea-facing terrace and swimming pool. Retractable bulwarks create 8 square meters of additional deck space when anchored, while a pivoting stern platform accommodates both tender and jet ski storage. The full-beam master suite spans 45 square meters with direct access to the foredeck pool area.Interior accommodations include five cabins for 10 guests, with two convertible twin/double staterooms. Crew quarters provide six berths in three cabins with a separate mess area. Material selections feature Calacatta marble, resin-finished ceilings, and engineered wood paneling throughout living spaces.Bernardo Zuccon of Zuccon International Project noted: "Asymmetry on SL110A is not simply a formal gesture - but a tool to reshape the spatial harmony onboard." The design eliminates 30% of traditional structural obstructions compared to previous models, improving sightlines across 210 square meters of total deck area.Technical enhancements include upgraded sound insulation in engine compartments and improved stabilization systems. The flybridge offers configurable layouts as either sun lounge or dining space, while the main deck lounge incorporates sliding glass walls that expand to create a 22 square meter waterside terrace when stationary.Production will continue at Sanlorenzo's La Spezia facility, with the Cannes display model being the first of six scheduled builds for 2026 delivery. Base pricing starts at €18 million before customization options. The SL110A represents the continued development of Sanlorenzo's asymmetrical series, which currently accounts for 40% of the shipyard's motor yacht orders.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: Sanlorenzo
July 24, 2025
Dutch submersible manufacturer U-Boat Worx has implemented a major corporate restructuring, forming three specialized divisions to address different market segments. The company simultaneously announced the appointment of maritime industry veteran Wilbert Versteeg as its new Chief Executive Officer.The newly established divisions include:UBW Exploration – Focused on the company's core business of manned submersibles for private and commercial use. The division will continue production of existing models including the Cruise Sub series (7-11 passengers), compact NEMO (2-3 passengers), Super Yacht Sub, and the high-speed Super Sub. A new wet-lease program will offer submersible charters with crew and technical support.UBW Components – Will commercialize proprietary subsea technologies originally developed for U-Boat Worx vessels, including pressure-tolerant battery systems, thrusters, lighting arrays, and control electronics for third-party manufacturers.UBW Naval – Dedicated to developing mission-specific submersible solutions for military and security applications, including surveillance, infrastructure protection, and search-and-rescue operations."This structure allows each division to act with clarity, autonomy and purpose," stated newly appointed CEO Wilbert Versteeg. "My mission is to make U-Boat Worx the most accessible, innovative, and operationally reliable submersible company in the world."Versteeg brings three decades of maritime industry experience to the role. His appointment coincides with growing demand for underwater solutions across multiple sectors, including tourism, research, and defense. The company has delivered more than 60 submersibles since its founding twenty years ago.The restructuring reflects U-Boat Worx's vertically integrated business model, which encompasses design, manufacturing, and operator training. According to Marketing Director Roy Heijdra, the new divisions will enable more targeted customer engagement across different market segments.The naval division's creation responds to increased government interest in submersible capabilities for maritime security applications. Meanwhile, the components division represents a strategic expansion into the broader underwater technology supply chain.No immediate changes to existing product lines or customer support structures were announced. The company maintains its headquarters in Breda, Netherlands, where all submersible manufacturing occurs.Industry analysts note the reorganization positions U-Boat Worx to capitalize on growing private and commercial interest in underwater exploration while expanding into the defense sector. The move follows recent deliveries to luxury yacht owners and cruise operators, as well as ongoing research collaborations with oceanographic institutions.Credits: StudioHansKeur/U-Boat Worx
July 24, 2025
Pershing has renewed its collaboration with British apparel brand Murphy&Nye to mark its 40th anniversary, introducing two new collections. The partnership, established in 2004, has produced yachting apparel and accessories since its inception.The Pershing 40th Anniversary Capsule Collection consists of five items: a performance polo shirt, a minimalist T-shirt, a weather-resistant windbreaker, a padded vest, and a cap. Each piece features commemorative embroidery celebrating Pershing’s four-decade legacy.Additionally, the brands unveiled the Owner Set, a seven-piece collection designed for Pershing yacht owners. It includes a waterproof travel bag, a unisex cap, a fully waterproof and windproof hooded jacket, UPF 50+ nylon polo shirts, and refined shorts. The technical fabrics prioritize functionality while maintaining a sleek aesthetic.The collections were previewed at the Venice Boat Show and will be available for purchase to both Pershing owners and Murphy&Nye customers. 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
July 23, 2025
The 1995-built Benetti motor yacht Solafide has completed an extensive multi-million euro refit (2023-2025) and is now exclusively listed for sale with Camper & Nicholsons. The 499GT vessel underwent a complete transformation while retaining its classic Benetti lines.Measuring 45 meters in length with a steel hull, Solafide offers transatlantic range of 4,600 nautical miles at 12 knots. The refit included full hull and superstructure repainting, complete engine and generator rebuilds, new CMC electric stabilizers, and upgraded navigation systems.Tommaso Spadolini supervised the exterior redesign which created new alfresco dining areas and transformed the 120 sqm sundeck into a helicopter-capable space with hot tub. The aft deck now features fold-down terraces expanding the beach club area.Supernova Design Studio completely reimagined the interior with warm wood tones, onyx details and custom furnishings. The layout accommodates 12 guests in six cabins, including a main deck master suite with convertible office/lounge and four lower deck cabins (two doubles, two twins)."Solafide represents the perfect combination of classic Benetti quality and contemporary systems," said sales broker Della Pearce. The yacht's comprehensive refit earned a nomination for Best Refit at the 2025 World Superyacht Awards.The refit addressed all major systems while enhancing both guest amenities and operational capabilities. With its proven bluewater credentials and extensive recent upgrades, Solafide offers new owners a turnkey solution for global cruising.Credits: Benetti
July 23, 2025