Alva Yachts Eco Cruiser 50 is a brand-new motor yacht, powered by electric motors, with solar panels and hydrogen fuel cells for a totally clean navigation. Unprecedented space and silent cruising guarantee the maximum comfort.
• It is the first monohull electric motor yacht by Alva Yachts
• It will be powered by electric motors connected to a battery pack
• The battery pack takes energy from a generator and from solar panels
• For a 100% green vessel, the generator can be replaced by a hydrogen tank with fuel cells
• The unique layout with beach area, upper and lower deck offers unprecedented space
• Different layouts and solutions are available to best suit the owners' needs
Alva Yachts, the German shipyard of electrical floating solutions, takes another step forward and launches its first monohull electric yacht, named Eco Cruiser 50. It is a 15.20-meter motor yacht, specifically designed for electric propulsion, with a peculiar layout made to maximize space, and customized solutions with plenty of possibilities for the interiors. It has been designed by Henndesign to perfectly suit customers who like to cruise and explore while yachting. At 50 feet, it will be the smallest model in the Alva Yachts range, meant to reach new markets and especially a wider range of boaters.
The first key point of Eco Cruiser 50 is of course the electric propulsion. Alva Yachts has already developed electric catamarans (Ocean Eco 60 and 90 are in construction), an electric-assisted sailing vessel (Ocean Sail 82), and floating villas. The Eco Cruiser 50 is a step further, as the electric powertrain is now taken onto a monohull yacht.
Once again and as for the other projects, Eco Cruiser 50 is shaped around a solar and electric approach towards yachting: different to other yachts the technology is not an add-on but a central design feature. The most obvious characteristic that underlines this fact is the impressive roof line that creates a larger roof surface for solar panels. More solar panels are also housed in the overhang of the upper deck.
Eco Cruiser 50f+ features 2 electric motors delivering 100 kW each, for a total output of 272 hp. The power to supply the engines comes from a generator (50 kVA) and from solar glass tiles on the roof (4.9 kWp), and it is stored into a 140 or 240 kWh battery pack.
The cleanest solution replaces the generator with a hydrogen fuel cell, and the normal fuel tank with hydrogen storage tanks. In this case the Eco Cruiser 50 is 100% clean, as it can cruise without releasing any polluting emission and in total silence.
Alva Yachts has also considered seafarers who want more performance even from an electric yacht, and offers a Power Version of the Eco Cruiser 50, named 50 HP, with two 230kW electric motors for a total of 625 hp. In this case the maximum speed can reach 20 knots.
Alva Yachts and Henndesign have also given the Eco Cruiser 50 a peculiar layout, made to maximize space and comfort.
A large beach club area, much more than a swim platform (it measures 22 sqm), houses a sun pad but also holds the yacht's tender and a jet ski. From here, four steps down lead to the lower deck, while a starboard staircase take to the upper one.
The outside areas do not end in the ample beach club but continue upstairs with a raised and protected cockpit featuring a couch and two tables, and with two wide passageways that lead to the foredeck large sun pad.
The inner layout of Eco Cruiser 50f+ can be chosen between different versions, with three or four cabins, for private use or for charter.
One solution features a wide and cozy galley, with dining table for 6 to 8 guests, on the lower deck. An aisle takes to the night accommodation, with two cabins and two bathrooms (one has a second door on the aisle), while the bow houses the crew cabin with two bunks and a head. The crew quarters are accessible via a separate staircase from the helm station on the upper bridge; the helm station also has two side doors on the lateral decks. A fourth, large cabin is located on the upper deck just behind the pilothouse, and features a double bed, a large bathroom, and an office table / vanity corner. The raised position and the glazing on three sides offer a beautiful view on the horizon.
Another layout consists of just three cabins, all located on the lower deck, with three bathrooms (one is accessible from the aisle and can work as a day toilet as well). The master cabin is amidships, to port, and sports a bathroom with separate shower and WC, while the beautiful countertop with two sinks is in an open corner behind the bed, faced by a large closet and a sofa. Outside, to starboard, the large passageway hosts the main galley and a round table. In this case, the closed upper deck is a single, airy space: a lounge with wet bar, sofas and coffee table, and the helm station to fore with doors on the side passageways. Two staircases give access to the lower deck, one from the helm station and one from the beach area.
In any case, the interiors have been developed following a minimalist design and focusing on natural materials and lighting.
Designed with luxury, safety and cruising comfort in mind, Alva Yachts Eco Cruiser 50f+ is an example of the latest technological developments in the field of self-sufficient yachts, surpassing its competition by years.
Paris Hilton and her family recently completed a Mediterranean holiday aboard the 24.4-meter Sunreef 80 Eco Nalani, a solar-electric catamaran that combines luxury with environmental consciousness. The black-hulled vessel served as the family's floating residence during their Sardinian getaway, accommodating Hilton, husband Carter Reum, and their two children.The Nalani features 340 square meters of living space across four staterooms and a children's bunk room. Its design emphasizes indoor-outdoor living, with a master suite featuring a private balcony and common areas that flow seamlessly between interior and exterior spaces. The yacht's integrated solar panels and hybrid propulsion system align with Hilton's public advocacy for sustainable luxury.During their charter, the family utilized the yacht's numerous amenities including a flybridge hot tub, open-air cinema, and various water toys. Hilton shared glimpses of their experience on social media, highlighting quiet family moments and Mediterranean sunsets.Sunreef's 80 Eco series represents the Polish builder's commitment to environmentally conscious yachting, combining conventional propulsion with renewable energy systems for limited silent operation. The model has gained popularity among charter clients seeking sustainable luxury options.The catamaran's layout prioritizes outdoor living with multiple lounge areas, including a forward terrace and aft beach club configuration. Its crew quarters accommodate four staff members to ensure full service during charters.Industry observers note growing interest in eco-friendly yachting solutions among high-profile clients, with solar-assisted systems becoming increasingly common in new builds. The Nalani remains available for Mediterranean charters through the current season.Sunreef continues production of its eco-focused catamaran line at its Gdansk facility, offering models from 15 to 30 meters in length. The company reports steady demand for vessels combining luxury amenities with reduced environmental impact.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: courtesy by Paris Hilton; Sunreef Yachts
August 8, 2025
Nautor Swan will present two new sailing yachts at Europe's premier marine events this autumn. The Swan 51 performance cruiser will make its world premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival (9-14 September), while the flagship Swan 128 will debut at the Monaco Yacht Show.Swan 128The 15.5-meter Swan 51 enters the competitive 50-foot segment as the smallest model in Swan's performance cruiser line. Developed from experience gained with over 70 yachts between 14.6 and 16.8 meters built since 2019, the design features a mast positioned closer to the keel for improved balance. The model succeeds the original 1981 Swan 51, the first Swan collaboration with designer German Frers.Giovanni Pomati, Nautor Swan CEO, stated: "From the high-performance elegance of the Swan 51 to the refined design of the Swan 128, we offer our global sailing community to experience the authentic spirit of sailing."Alongside the Swan 51, Cannes attendees will see the ClubSwan 43 and Swan 88 models. The 39-meter Swan 128 will represent the Finnish builder's largest offering at Monaco.Swan 51From 19-21 September, Nautor Swan will host an exclusive viewing event at Porto Carlo Riva in Rapallo, Italy, providing private access to its current model range.The autumn presentations mark Nautor Swan's continued expansion across multiple sailing yacht segments, from performance cruisers to maxi yachts. Both new models will be available for viewing by appointment following their official debuts.Nautor 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 Swan
August 7, 2025
Riva has launched its new 54-meter flagship, the largest yacht ever built by the Italian shipyard, at its Superyacht Division facility in Ancona. The all-aluminum vessel represents the brand's expansion into the megayacht segment while maintaining Riva's signature styling.Developed through collaboration between Officina Italiana Design, Ferretti Group's Engineering Department, and the Strategic Product Committee led by Piero Ferrari, the 54METRI features a gross tonnage below 500 GT. The exterior design combines Moon Grey, London Grey, and Bright Black finishes with polished steel details and the brand's characteristic aquamarine waterline.Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi stated: "Now every yachting enthusiast and Riva fan has a new boat to dream about. A paragon of beauty and elegance, Riva 54METRI showcases the unstoppable momentum of the world's most famous shipyard in its pursuit of innovation."The four-deck layout accommodates 10 guests across four cabins and a main-deck master suite, with crew quarters for 11 personnel. Notable features include a 5-meter stern pool with fold-out terraces, concealed bow tender storage, and extensive use of premium materials including Sahara Noir and Bianco Rhino marble.Technical specifications include four electric stabilizer fins, dual radar systems, 5G and Starlink connectivity, and a bridge outfitted with multiple touchscreen displays. The design emphasizes acoustic insulation and crew circulation routes to maintain guest privacy.Sea Pros Yachts founder Alain Maaraoui facilitated the build for the Kuwait-based owner. The launch marks Riva's continued expansion of its superyacht offerings while preserving design elements from its smaller production models. The 54METRI will now undergo final outfitting before delivery.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
August 7, 2025
The 45.6-meter converted trawler Scintilla Maris has concluded a rigorous 10-month shakedown cruise covering 11,000 nautical miles across the North Atlantic. Owner Erik Vonk and his wife departed the Netherlands in April 2024, undertaking an improvised route through Scotland's Outer Hebrides, Faroe Islands, Iceland, Greenland, and North America before returning to the shipyard.The expedition tested the Vripack-designed yacht's performance in challenging conditions, including 6-meter swells. Vonk reported the vessel maintained operational comfort throughout, particularly noting the effectiveness of the heat recovery system during Arctic transits where exterior temperatures plummeted. The open bridge configuration allowed guests to participate in navigation during the 700-nautical-mile crossing to Newfoundland.The cruise included extended stops at remote locations, with the yacht often being the only visiting vessel in areas like Scotland's Rum Island and the Faroe Islands. Local communities frequently greeted the crew, with Vonk recalling particularly hospitable receptions in Icelandic fishing villages where stays were repeatedly extended.Following successful completion of the transatlantic voyage, Scintilla Maris returned to the Netherlands to prepare for its first commercial charter season in Iceland. The yacht's conversion from industrial trawler to expedition vessel took 15 years, with Vonk emphasizing its dual capability for remote exploration and luxury accommodation."I spent 15 years perfecting a boat that takes you places where few other people go," Vonk stated. "Scintilla Maris combines battleship strength with the comfort and luxury of a boutique hotel." The shakedown cruise confirmed the vessel's ability to access isolated destinations while maintaining premium onboard facilities, including a country-style galley and skylit interior spaces.Credits: Vripack
August 7, 2025
Azimut has launched the first unit of the Grande 30M at its Viareggio shipyard. The new model is part of the shipyard’s Grande Series and will make its official debut at the 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival.The yacht’s exterior design is by Alberto Mancini, while the interiors have been created by the architecture studio m2atelier. This is the first collaboration between the two design teams. According to Azimut, the interior layout follows a design approach referred to as "Barefoot Luxury", developed by m2atelier for this model.The Grande 30M is also the first yacht to be fitted with the new mtu propulsion system from Rolls-Royce. It includes mtu engines and POD drives, a combination that reportedly provides 15% greater efficiency compared to conventional shaft line systems, with reductions in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.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 6, 2025