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
Sacs Tecnorib will exhibit four models at the Palma International Boat Show from April 30 to May 3. The display, organized with Mallorca distributor Swiss Yachting and Spanish dealer Helimotor, will feature the Pirelli Speedboats 30 and 35, along with the Strider 13 and Strider 11, at stand M-34 in Zone 1.Pirelli 30The Pirelli Speedboats line, designed by Ted Mannerfelt, will be represented by the 30 and 35 models, which emphasize performance and sporty aesthetics. Strider 11The Strider range, designed by Christian Grande, includes the 13-meter Strider 13, focused on comfort for extended cruising, and the more compact Strider 11, suited for day trips with functional living spaces.Pirelli 35The company's participation underscores its focus on expanding its Mediterranean presence with models that combine design, construction quality, and performance. The Palma show marks the beginning of the Mediterranean boating season.Sacs Tecnorib Spa was established in 2021 from the union between TecnoRib srl and Sacs srl. Sacs tecnorib spa is the official licensee of Pirelli brand inflatable boatsCredits: Sacs Tecnorib Spa
April 23, 2025
Alinghi Red Bull Racing has announced its withdrawal from the upcoming America’s Cup competition, citing financial and strategic reasons. The team, which was set to compete in the 37th edition of the prestigious sailing event, confirmed the decision in a statement released today.“After careful consideration and thorough analysis of our current situation, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the America’s Cup,” said team principal Bruno Troublé. “This was not an easy choice, but we believe it is the right one for the future of our organization.”The withdrawal comes as a significant blow to the America’s Cup, which was scheduled to take place in Barcelona later this year. Organizers have yet to comment on how the absence of Alinghi Red Bull Racing will impact the competition format and schedule.Alinghi Red Bull Racing has been a prominent participant in recent America’s Cup editions, most notably competing in the 36th edition held in Bermuda. The team has a history dating back to the original Alinghi squad that won the America’s Cup in 2003.“We want to thank all our supporters, partners, and the incredible team members who have been part of this journey,” Troublé added. “While we are leaving the America’s Cup, we remain committed to the sport of sailing and look forward to exploring new opportunities in the future.”The team’s departure leaves the field of competitors for the 37th America’s Cup reduced, with organizers now facing the challenge of potentially finding a replacement team or adjusting the competition format. The America’s Cup is known for its high-stakes, high-tech sailing competitions involving cutting-edge catamarans capable of speeds exceeding 50 knots.Details regarding the future of Alinghi Red Bull Racing’s assets, including their AC75 foiling catamaran, have not been disclosed. The team’s withdrawal adds to the uncertainty surrounding the America’s Cup, which has already faced challenges related to cost and complexity in recent years.Organizers of the America’s Cup are expected to provide further updates on how they plan to proceed with the competition in the coming days. The event remains one of the most prestigious and technically demanding regattas in the sailing world, attracting teams from around the globe.Credits: Alinghi Red Bull Racing
April 22, 2025
The Sunseeker 131 motor yacht ‘Best of Me’ has entered the luxury yacht market through Camper & Nicholsons. Built in 2014, the vessel has undergone a comprehensive refit in 2023, bringing it up to the latest standards of comfort and performance.The yacht measures 40 meters in length and features exterior design by Don Shead. The interior, spanning three decks, has been reconfigured during the recent refit to accommodate up to 12 guests across six staterooms. The master suite is located on the main deck, offering panoramic views and direct access to the aft deck.Key features include a spacious beach club area with a hydraulic swim platform, a large sundeck with alfresco dining facilities, and a fully equipped gym. The yacht is powered by twin Caterpillar engines, delivering a top speed of 30 knots and a cruising speed of 25 knots.The refit included upgrades to the vessel’s technical systems, including new generators, stabilization systems, and air conditioning units. The interior received new furnishings and finishes, with a focus on creating a contemporary, luxurious ambiance.“Best of Me presents an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a well-maintained, high-performance yacht with a proven pedigree,” said a spokesperson from Camper & Nicholsons. “The recent refit has ensured that the yacht meets the highest standards of comfort and performance expected from a vessel of this caliber.”The yacht is currently available for viewing in the Mediterranean and is offered for sale through Camper & Nicholsons, one of the world’s leading yacht brokers. The asking price and further details are available upon request through the brokerage firm.The vessel’s layout includes a master stateroom on the main deck, a VIP stateroom on the upper deck, four additional guest staterooms on the lower deck, crew quarters for up to 10 staff, multiple entertainment areas, and state-of-the-art audio-visual systems.The yacht is equipped with advanced navigation systems, including stabilizers at anchor and underway, ensuring comfort during both cruising and stationary periods. The exterior decks provide ample space for socializing and relaxing, with multiple seating areas and dining options both inside and outside.Best of Me is registered in the Cayman Islands and is compliant with all relevant international regulations and standards. The yacht is offered with a full inventory of water toys and tenders, making it ready for immediate enjoyment by its new owner.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
April 22, 2025
Moonen Yachts has announced the sale of the Moonen 110 Mustique YN202, now named MIDNIGHT SAGA. The transaction was facilitated by Moonen’s Global Sales Representatives and IYC brokers Matthew Stone and Richard Gray, who represented both the buyer and the seller in the deal.The sale was concluded during the 2025 Palm Beach International Boat Show, where the yacht was showcased at the IYC display and available for private viewings. Currently located in Florida, the 34-meter yacht will soon transit to European waters for delivery to its new owner.The Moonen 110 Mustique features design work by René van der Velden and interior finishes by Studio Indigo based in London. The yacht offers accommodation for up to 10 guests, including a full-beam Owner’s Stateroom with 180-degree panoramic views. Additional features include spacious exterior decks for socializing and dining, a generous bridge deck, and an interior volume of 279 gross tons.The vessel boasts operational capabilities such as fuel efficiency, long-range cruising ability, shallow draft, and low acoustic impact. It also comes with Moonen’s comprehensive shipyard warranty.“We are thrilled to confirm the sale of YN202, the first hull in the Moonen 110 series,” said Nicky van Zon, Technical Director of Moonen Yachts. “As a long-range steel yacht built with Moonen Yachts’ renowned Dutch engineering and exceptional craftsmanship, MIDNIGHT SAGA is a truly remarkable vessel. We wish the new owner many years of serene and luxurious cruising.”Richard Gray, Head of Sales UK, added, “This sale marks a significant milestone for both IYC and Moonen Yachts. It’s always a privilege to guide a client through the purchase of such a meticulously built yacht, and even more rewarding when the entire process is managed in-house. This was a true team effort between IYC and the dedicated team at Moonen Yachts. We’re now looking forward to introducing the yacht to the charter market, with an exciting cruising itinerary that will perfectly showcase the quality and capabilities of a Moonen build.”Matthew Stone, Managing Partner, California, and IYC Sales Consultant, commented, “This sale reflects the strength of our collaborative approach and partnership with the Shipyard. The Moonen 110 is an exceptional platform, and the yacht’s new owner immediately recognized its unique capabilities and refined craftsmanship. We’re excited to support the new owner and the vessel’s global journey.”Credits: Moonen Yachts
April 22, 2025
Italian shipyard Baglietto has delivered the 43.7-meter motor yacht Speedy Bear, a custom Fast44 model designed by Francesco Paszkowski Design with interior collaboration from Margherita Casprini. The aluminum-hulled vessel follows the design lineage of Baglietto's fast yachts, including the 46M Lucky Me. Speedy Bear accommodates 10 guests across five cabins: a main-deck master suite forward of the saloon, two VIP doubles, and two convertible singles with additional berths. Stern fold-down balconies create expanded sunbathing space around the pool, while the garage door converts to a swim platform extending the beach club area.Powered by twin MTU engines, the yacht reaches a cruising speed of 23 knots and maximum speed of 27 knots. Baglietto's CCO Fabio Ermetto stated: "This is indeed a custom project that exudes classical beauty while also featuring innovative solutions. Speedy Bear reminds me of several historical and yet revolutionary vessels built by Baglietto – which marked the history of yachting – while also being a brand-new, one-of-a-kind project, faithful to Baglietto's DNA."Baglietto Spa is an Italian boat builder based in La Spezia specializing in new aluminum light alloy yachts ranging between 35m and 50m in length and steel and light aluminum alloy displacement megayachts starting at 40m.Credits: Baglietto
April 21, 2025