In the midst of a failing yachting industry in Dubai, two yacht designers have to decided to go against the grain and create some of the most aggressive yachts in the business. Franco Gianni from SFG Yacht Design has teamed up with Josh Rodriguez, a yacht designer and naval engineer with many years of experience working with some of the most prominent shipyards in Europe. The Duos first assault on the yacht design world is a new type of full displacement, RPH, 44-meter motor yacht with aggressive styling and advanced technology throughout.
The yacht, which goes by the project name “Bandida”, is the yachtsman’s dream. Designed with sun worshipping, socializing and connectivity to the sea in mind, project Bandida boasts oversize seating throughout all decks and a large swimming pool, centrally located on the fly bridge. Franco and Josh have spent many years on board all types of different yachts in many different ways adding to long list of experiences in the industry, so when it came time to design a yacht that would make a statement as not just another concept, they designed it as if it was they’re own yacht. The thought process behind the design was to include as much comfort and style possible without sacrificing functionality. The yacht is designed and engineered to be able to go anywhere in the world in complete comfort and safety economically. The hull is a proven full displacement platform that will be powered by twin Caterpillar C 32 Acert diesels. She will have a cruising speed of 16 knots and a max of 18 knots with a max range of 5000 nautical miles. Project Bandida will displace just 370 tonnes.
From the outside, Bandida will have the illusion of a tri decker when in reality she is more of a traditional raised pilothouse design. One of the main advantages of this illusion is the amount of volume the main salon will boast. She has the feeling of a much bigger boat inside. She will feature a main deck master with a foldout balcony, four lower guest cabins, a large beach club, tender garage and a large, comfortable crew area.
The lower deck aft will house a large comfortable beach club that opens aft via a large glass transom door and two side opening balcony doors. Forward of the beach club is a dedicated tender garage that will house a custom 6.5 meter tender.
One of the main features of Bandida is the flush bow of the yacht. The entire bow is dedicated to sunbathing, relaxation and socializing. Two large aft sunpads are flush with the teak deck followed by a large social pit surrounded by more sunpads.
We want this yacht to appeal to all types of yachtsman, the family oriented type all the way to the ultimate party going type. The yacht will be a great charter yacht based on the fact that she is so versatile. “Franco Gianni”
Project Bandida is an aggressive and angular yacht with a vertical bow and simple lines that give this yacht the tough yet feminine look of a go anywhere in style type of yacht. With a length over all of 44 meters and a beam of just over 8 meters this yacht sets her self apart from the heard by providing an exterior and interior volume that is unheard of in her class, actually she is the class, because there is no other yacht in the world like her.
Entering the yacht from the starboard side of the aft deck, you are immediately welcomed by a large sunpad and gracious lounge area. Forward towards the main salon doors is a large 12-seater dining table that is a work of art in itself.
As you exit the aft deck for the fly bridge via the large, starboard side staircase, you are immediately greeted by a giant lap pool surrounded by glass and a towering arch with a waterfall and central bar that caters to all four sides of the of the fly. On the aft deck, custom designer furniture creates and inviting, relaxing area that can opt as a sun lounge or as a sitting area that provides ultimate comfort. The forward end of the fly bridge is a lounger’s paradise, with the biggest sun pads and lounges to be found on a 44-meter motor yacht. This area was designed with many little hidden secrets such as built in cool boxes; lift tables and accessories for those of us who worship the sun and sea.
Pushing the trend towards making more of foredecks, built-in seating and sun pads transform the bow into a private, intimate lounge in its own right, rather than a makeshift hideaway with a deckchair or two.
The interior of this yacht is created for 12 guests in 5 cabins, the master being on the main deck. The interior layout of the boat is unique and non traditional just as she is on the outside.
The overall synopsis of this yacht is that it was created for those of us who want to get on board our yacht and not be afraid to touch anything, to jump on a giant lounge, read a book or just lay in comfort under the sun for hours on end. This is a yacht designed and created by two designers that have actually spent their entire lives on board yachts, as crew and as guest along with being owners themselves. Style, aggressive, sharp, elegant, family, friends, fun, comfort and elegance are just some of the words that can begin to describe this new type of yacht. The objective is to go anywhere in the world in absolute comfort and style, knowing that your in the safest boat possible because the team that designed and built it actually spent the majority of their career at sea as super yacht captains and hands on designers and engineers.
The G2 60’ is the next generation of center consoles and day boats. Designed by Franco Gianni and engineered by Josh Rodriguez, the G2 redefines the day boat market by outperforming the competition and looking really good doing it. The G2 has an aggressive exterior and interior along with a pedigree hull bottom that is capable of triple digit speeds in any condition. Based off the original SFG 60’ CCV, the G2 takes the super center console to the next level. The G2 comes standard with all of the goodies usually considered options, including large, aft fold out platforms. The G2 has many different power options, from inboard diesels hooked up to surface drives to 5 Mercury Racing 400R outboards, the standard would be a quad, Seven Marine 627 outboard package that can push her to speeds in excess of 75mph.
The G2 is offered in 3 different layout arrangements and is completely customizable by her owner.
Camper & Nicholsons has opened a new design studio and office in Viareggio, Italy, expanding its service offerings in new construction, refit, and design sectors. The facility includes a materials lounge and digital configurator for client presentations.CEO Paolo Casani stated: "With this studio in Viareggio, we reaffirm our roots and expand into areas that strengthen our heritage: new build sales, project management, refit, and design." The Italian operation is led by Managing Director Daniela Duck, who also serves as Group Head of New Build.The studio will provide three core services: new build sales and project coordination, technical refit services through worldwide shipyard partnerships, and interior/exterior design for both yacht and residential projects. The materials lounge allows clients to review physical samples while digital tools enable real-time visualization of design concepts.Daniela Duck noted: "Our clients can now experience a truly collaborative environment. This is where owners, shipyards, and our team come together to create yachts of the highest quality."The Viareggio location places the company near several Italian shipyards while maintaining global project capabilities through existing international partnerships. The technical team currently oversees multiple new construction and refit projects worldwide.The expansion represents Camper & Nicholsons' increased focus on comprehensive project management services from initial concept through final delivery. The company will maintain its existing offices while utilizing the new facility for client meetings and design development activities.Current projects include the studio's first new build commission and several refit operations managed through partner shipyards. The company continues to provide brokerage services alongside its expanded project management offerings through the Viareggio location.Credits: Camper & Nicholsons
September 9, 2025
Turkish yacht builder Sirena Yachts has unveiled the Sirena 60 at the Cannes Yachting Festival, replacing the previous Sirena 58 model. The new design offers increased interior volume and expanded exterior spaces compared to its predecessor. The 18.3-meter yacht features updated styling from Frers Naval Architecture with modifications by Sirena's in-house design team. Key changes include larger windows, a redesigned flybridge, and increased storage capacity. The hull retains the plumb bow design and extended swim platform characteristic of the series.Accommodations include three cabins with a full-beam master cabin amidships and forward VIP cabin. The third cabin features convertible bedding that transitions between double and twin configurations. Crew areas incorporate separate access routes for operational efficiency.Standard power comes from twin Volvo D11 670hp engines, with an optional 900hp package available. Performance specifications indicate 23-knot maximum speed with standard engines and 25 knots with upgraded power. The design emphasizes fuel efficiency and range capabilities for Mediterranean and Caribbean cruising.CEO Cagin Genc stated: "We are so excited to present our Sirena 60 to the market, as the natural evolution of our successful Sirena 58. Ideal for experienced boaters looking for comfort, flexibility, and performance in a manageable size."Exterior social areas include a forward lounge with dining capabilities and sunpads with convertible backrests. The flybridge receives updated dashboard instrumentation and pilot seating alongside a Corian-topped bar unit.Storage capacity accommodates various water toys including jet skis and paddleboards. The extended swim platform facilitates water access while maintaining the yacht's cruising capabilities. The design incorporates Corian surfaces and marine-grade materials throughout interior spaces.The Sirena 60 enters production following the company's established manufacturing processes in Turkey. The model will compete in the 18-20 meter motor yacht segment against offerings from European and Asian shipyards.Sirena Yachts is a Turkish yacht brand. The company produces semi-displacement motor yachts ranging from 17m to over 30m.Credits: Emre Boyoglu/Sirena Yachts
September 9, 2025
The Cannes Yachting Festival opens today across Vieux Port and Port Canto locations. The event typically features numerous global premieres. Here is our list of boats that cannot be missed.Singolare45mTankoa YachtsThe second hull in Tankoa's T450 series represents the largest yacht debuting at the 2025 festival. Following the delivery of sister vessel GO in 2024, this iteration features design by Giorgio M. Cassetta with interior spaces by Brazilian architect Debora Aguiar. The yacht incorporates a hardtop creating an enclosed veranda that converts to climate-controlled salon accommodation.Tremenda45mCantiere delle MarcheThis 45-meter explorer yacht delivered in March 2025 shares the title of largest debutante with Singolare. Commissioned by an experienced owner in 2021, the design emphasizes outdoor connection through oversized windows, extensive al fresco areas, and a substantial beach club. Interior spaces incorporate mid-century modern design influences.Andiamo40.7mSanlorenzoThis first unit in the SD132 series represents Sanlorenzo's largest composite semi-displacement construction at 420 GT. Notable features include a beach club configuration with television-equipped bar and lounge seating, plus lateral terraces creating 70 square meters of additional exterior space when deployed.Juno's 744.1mBenettiAs the flagship of Benetti's Class series, this vessel becomes the yard's largest GRP construction to date. Giorgio M. Cassetta designed both exterior and interior spaces utilizing FSC-certified woods and resin finishes. The layout accommodates 12 guests across six cabins including full-beam master suite. Technical specifications include twin MAN engines providing 4,100 nautical mile range at 11 knots.Lalabe35.3mVan der ValkBased on the Lady Lene hull design with naval architecture by Guido de Groot, this custom construction accommodates three generations through five-cabin layout. Outdoor spaces incorporate integrated balconies, custom swimming platform, and aft deck relaxation zone with beach club and sauna facilities. The yacht delivered in July 2025.Majesty 100 Terrace32.25mMajesty Yachts This model emphasizes exterior terraces and fold-down balconies, following design concepts from the larger Majesty 111. Phathom Studio created a glass-fronted owner's cabin with skylights and private forward terrace. The design focuses on multiple entertainment areas throughout the vessel's layout.Pearl 8225mPearl YachtsThis model incorporates a raised pilothouse design enabling a main deck master cabin with private foredeck terrace alongside four lower deck ensuite cabins. Notable features include folding side platforms, multiple cockpit configurations, and garage capacity for Williams 395 tender and Sea-Doo jet ski. The design focuses on maximizing interior volume while maintaining competitive pricing within its segment.Ferretti Yachts 80024.47mFerretti YachtsFerretti Yachts 800 is the new model that completes the range renewal process begun in 2018. Developed by Ferretti Yachts’ Cattolica shipyard, the project is the result of collaboration between the Product Strategy Committee led by Piero Ferrari and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department. The yacht has a length overall of 24.47 m – a version with a shorter stern platform is also available to comply with the 24-metre limit established by French law – and a maximum beam of 5.91 m. The most innovative features include large windows for uninterrupted views of the surroundings from the interiors and an optional sliding door on the starboard side of the salon; perfectly separated spaces to ensure total privacy; and optimisation of the exterior surfaces and particularly the flybridge (a full 40 m²), further enriching the on-board experience. Pershing GTX7023.99mPershing The Pershing GTX70 represents the smallest model in the Sport Utility Yachts range, developed through collaboration between Ferretti Group's Strategic Product Committee, Vallicelli Design, and engineering teams. Its design maximizes interior and exterior spaces, offering 10% and 30% more area respectively than comparable yachts. The stern features a two-level arrangement with a 23 m² extendable beach area and shaded cockpit. A retractable glass panel connects the main deck interior with outdoor spaces, creating a continuous open layout. The yacht accommodates three ensuite cabins below deck while maintaining a 16 m² sundeck divided into functional zones.Absolute Navetta 5315.98mAbsolute This Navetta series update incorporates plunging gunwales, aft cutaways, and extensive hull glazing while maintaining traditional interior organization. The layout includes lower deck VIP cabin with diagonal berth configuration, starboard twin cabin, and main deck saloon with floor-to-ceiling windows. Compact yet full of character, it was the first Navetta under 70 feet to introduce the terrace cockpit, now a distinctive hallmark of the Absolute brand. Credits: Absolute; Ferretti Group; Guillaume Plisson for Sanlorenzo; Tankoa Yachts; Yacht Harbour archive
September 9, 2025
Italian marine manufacturer MED Group will debut its TYKUN X chase boat at the Monaco Yacht Show from September 24-27, 2025. The 10.5-meter aluminum vessel, designed by Tommaso Spadolini, will showcase at stand QA34.The chase boat utilizes twin 400 HP Mercury Verado V10 engines to achieve speeds exceeding 50 knots. Its aluminum hull construction derives from MED Group's defense sector experience through its MED DEFENSE division, which supplies NATO-qualified vessels to security agencies.Design features include a carbon fiber hardtop and lateral terrace configuration intended to enhance passenger access to marine environments. The layout allows customization of materials, color schemes, and electronic systems according to client specifications. Storage capacity accommodates water toys including Seabobs and paddleboards.MED Group CEO Marco Galimberti stated the model represents years of development combining military-grade engineering with superyacht requirements. Designer Tommaso Spadolini emphasized the vessel's focus on both performance characteristics and practical functionality.The TYKUN X targets superyacht owners and operators seeking high-performance support vessels with proven seaworthiness characteristics. MED Group will demonstrate docking capabilities and maneuverability features during the exhibition.The chase boat segment shows growing demand for specialized tenders combining functional requirements with recreational amenities. MED Group's entry leverages existing naval architecture experience while incorporating design elements tailored to luxury yacht operations.Production will occur at MED Group's Italian facilities, with delivery timelines to be confirmed following the Monaco presentation. The company anticipates interest from both private owners and commercial yacht operators requiring robust support vessels capable of high-speed operations.Credits: MED Group
September 8, 2025
Azimut has launched the Magellano 27M, a 27-meter yacht representing the third generation of its Voyager series. The design features exterior work by Jarkko Jämsén and interior spaces by AMDL CIRCLE & Michele De Lucchi, marking the architecture firm's first marine project.The yacht incorporates a loggia-style main deck with full-height glazing designed to create visual connection with marine environments. The exterior design emphasizes clean lines and curved surfaces intended to reflect light and water movements. Jämsén's approach focused on reducing visual elements to create what the designer terms a "bare shape" that integrates with natural surroundings.Interior spaces utilize light wood finishes and architectural elements inspired by Mediterranean patio designs. The layout prioritizes natural illumination through extensive glazing, with wooden structural components serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. The design team treated natural light as a structural material throughout the living spaces.Technical specifications include long-range cruising capabilities consistent with the Magellano series' explorer yacht positioning. The vessel maintains Azimut's dual-mode hull design, offering stability in various sea conditions while maintaining fuel efficiency during extended voyages.The Magellano 27M accommodates owners focused on extended cruising rather than seasonal Mediterranean use. Interior configurations emphasize connection with external environments while maintaining privacy requirements during long-term onboard living.The yacht represents Azimut's continued development of its Voyager series, which targets owners seeking transoceanic capabilities combined with contemporary design aesthetics. The collaboration with architectural firm AMDL CIRCLE introduces new design approaches to marine interiors, particularly in the treatment of natural light and spatial organization.Production will utilize Azimut's existing manufacturing facilities, with the Magellano 27M positioned as the new flagship of the Voyager line. The yacht is scheduled for public presentation during the 2025-2026 boat show season following initial client deliveries.The Magellano series now spans multiple size categories, with the 27M model representing the largest current offering in Azimut's explorer yacht range. The company continues to develop both motor yacht and explorer segments simultaneously across its product portfolio.Credits: Azimut
September 8, 2025