One of the world's most appealing industries in the world from a PR and marketing standpoint, yachting often appears as a relatively untouched field to the automotive industry. Yet, over the years, several players from that market tried to venture into yachting.
Whilst the avenues they took to compete in yachting ranged from simple concepts co-designed with shipyards to actual yachts built with partner yachting brands to outright acquisitions of stakes in shipyards, the perspective of a potential success in yachting has continued to excite car manufacturers for several decades.
Ferrari and family
Brands: Ferretti Group (13.2%)
The Italian sports car manufacturer's history in yachting stretches all the way back to 1990 with the delivery of the Riva Ferrari 32. In total, 30 hulls of this speedboat line styled by Ferrari were built. In 2016, a barely used model was auctioned off by Sotheby's in Monaco at a starting price of €180,000. Powered by Vulcano engines, the boat can reach a top speed of 100 km/h.
Ferrari's most significant step into yachting seems to however have come in 2016, when Piero Ferrari, the son of Ferrari founder, Enzo Ferrari, bought 13.2% of Ferretti Group, the company behind brands such as Riva, CRN and Pershing. Controlled by Chinese conglomerate, Weichai, Ferretti Group posted earnings before tax of €11 million in the first quarter of 2016.
Porsche and family
Brands: Royal Falcon Fleet, Fearless, Kormaran
Partners: Dynamiq Yachts
Through its majority-owned subsidiary, Porsche Design Group, the German company first tried entering yachting with the Fearless 28, an 8.5-meter luxury speedboat reaching top speeds of up to 78 knots, four of which were built.
The German's sports car manufacturer's second attempt to enter yachting came in 2009 with the introduction of a concept for a 41-meter catamaran in combination with Royal Falcon Fleet, a now Swedish-based company that had developed the project for a fractional ownership program with a break down of about 10 owners per RFF135.
The delivery of the first RF135 was however postponed first from Q4 2010 to 2012 and then later seemed to disappear from the map. Part-built, the catamaran is currently still lying in Oregrund, Sweden where Royal Falcon Fleet offices are now located.
In 2012, Peter Daniell Porsche, great-grandson of Porsche founder, Ferdinand Porsche became a partner in Kormaran, a company trying to bring to market a transforming watercraft capable of cruising in six different positions, including a monohull and a trimaran, which is set to retail for near to €1 million.
Following their delays with the RF135, Porsche design was ultimately able to put a yacht on the water. The first superyacht they designed to be built became the 35-meter GT115 built together with yachting upstart, Dynamiq Yachts. Delivered earlier this year, the GTT115 is now on the market asking €13,950,000.
The second largest model in the company's Gran Turismo Transatlantic range, after their 39m GTT 130, the launched 35m yacht has a beam of 7,1 meters and a shallow draft of just 1,45 meters letting the yacht access sheltered bays.
Built out of aluminium, the GT 115 can boasts 3 or 4 cabins for a total of 6 or 8 guests and carries a crew of 6. With a gross tonnage of 198 tons, she can reach a top speed if 21 knots and cruise for up to 3,400 nautical miles at 10 knots. At 9 knots, she consumes just 52 l/h. According to the shipyard, production of the GT 115 will be limited to 7 units to make the yacht a collector's item, with prices starting at €12,500,000, going up depending on customisation.
Mercedes-Benz
Model: Arrow 460 Granturismo
Partners: Baltic Yachts
In 2016, Mercedes-Benz, the famed German car manufacturer, introduced their first yacht designed by Mercedes-Benz Style, a 14-meter luxury speed boat nicknamed, Silver Arrow of the Seas. Powered by twin Yanmar engines of 480hp each, the yacht can reach speeds of up to 30 knots. With a price tag of near €2,5 million, only 10 of these boats will be manufactured at Baltic Yachts for this first edition.
Baltic Yachts will produce all the composite components for the Arrow460 Edition1 and be responsible for assembly. Each yacht will be produced in Jakobstad using a ‘just in time’ manufacturing system, common motor industry practice noted for its streamlined efficiency. All partner companies in Silver Arrows Marine’s Network of Excellence supply chain will deliver direct to Baltic Yachts.
Aston Martin
Model: Aston Martin AM37
Partners: Quintessence Yachts
In partnership with Quintessence Yachts, a boat builder based in the Netherlands, Aston Martin have introduced their first 37-foot luxury speedboat at the Monaco Yacht Show last year. Having spent two years in research and development, the A37 will come in two options with top speeds of either 50 or 45 knots.
All AM37s benefit from a unique sliding cockpit cover which can be remotely operated with a mobile app. Navigation, control monitor and entertainment systems are integrated within a 15’ touchscreen in the dashboard, with advanced functions to control the electric anchor, retractable bimini and retractable swim platform. Each of these phenomenal day cruisers is manufactured using the latest in composite technologies and features many carbon fibre mouldings, including the deck of the boat.
Bugatti
Models: Niniette Series
Partners: Palmer Johnson
The result of a partnership between French car manufacturer, Bugatti and former US shipyard, Palmer Johnson, the Niniette series features several models between 50 and 88 feet. Amongst the project's key amenities are a large sunbathing area on the main deck as well as a spacious living room and a large master cabin on the lower deck.
An advanced stabilized hull achieves speed with efficiency, whilst the super slim main hull means higher speeds with lower input power and fuel burn. Side sponsons give additional vessel beam and hence increased stability at rest. Bugatti Niniette 66 reaches a top speeds of 44 knots and has a shallow draft of 0.83 metres.
"The Niniette is a genuine member of the Bugatti family. With its accentuated centre line and the duotone colour split of the exterior, it encompasses key elements of Bugatti’s heritage." explained Etienne Salomé, Design Director at Bugatti. "True to the company’s guiding design principle of ‘form follows performance’, the clear lines and dynamic stance of the yacht in combination with the characteristic, Bugatti signature line fused into the side profile of the boat are a reference to the recently launched Chiron. Even from a large distance when entering a port, the Niniette will always be recognized as a true Bugatti"
Lexus
Model: Lexus Sport Yacht
Partners: Marquis-Carver Yacht Group
Lexus, a division of Japanese car manufacturer, Toyota, had recently launched a concept for a 12.7-meter luxury speedboat built by Marquis-Carver Yacht Group in Wisconsin. The proof of concept could reach a top speed of 43 knots powered by twin 440hp Lexus engines but is not set to go into mass production.
The captain controls and monitors onboard systems from a color touchscreen panel at the helm; screens show GPS navigation, digital charts, surface radar, underwater sonar, lighting and entertainment systems. The forward passenger cabin is inviting in luxurious Lexus leather with wood and glass details. A standing height, sofa seating for six with a table, and air conditioning create a comfortable environment for intimate entertaining.
Henrik Fisker
Partners: Benetti
The lead designer behind luxury electric car manufacturer, Fisker Automotive, Henrik Fisker partnered with Italian shipyard, Benetti, the shipyard delivering the most yachts per year in the world, on a 50-meter concept.
Taking a new look at traditional yachts delivered by Benetti, the concept boasts a range of intriguing features. In addition to an open sundeck, with a round lounging area forward of the main deck, the yacht would feature a hot tub forward on the bow to utilise space more.
In addition to a large beach club created through folding platforms on either side and aft of the yacht, another intriguing feature of the concept is a master cabin on the bow of the yacht with floor-to-ceiling windows and a working fireplace.
Italian yacht builder Apreamare will make its first appearance at the Venice Boat Show from May 29 to June 2, 2025, alongside exclusive Northern Italy dealer Pedetti Yacht Sales. The event, held at Venice's historic Arsenale, will feature 270 exhibitors and 300 boats, with Apreamare showcasing its new Gozzo 38 Cabin model.The Gozzo 38 Cabin, designed by Cataldo Aprea and Marco Casali in collaboration with engineer Umberto Tagliavini, expands on the open Gozzo 35 with enhanced interior space and weather protection. The 11.45-meter yacht features a deckhouse for improved habitability, a 4-panel glass door connecting the cockpit to the dinette, and a layout with two cabins and a 2-meter headroom bathroom. The guest cabin includes a 140-centimeter-wide bed, exceeding standard dimensions for its class.Exterior amenities include a convertible cockpit table, L-shaped seating for six, and an extended beach platform. Propulsion options comprise twin Volvo Penta D4-270 DPI or D4-320 DPI sterndrives, or a traditional Volvo Penta D4-320 shaft configuration.The participation highlights Apreamare's focus on Northern Italy's market, where demand for its Sorrentine Gozzo designs continues to grow. The Venice Boat Show marks the first public exhibition of the Gozzo 38 Cabin, positioned between the Gozzo 35 and flagship Gozzo 45 in Apreamare's lineup.The history of the shipyard starts in 1849, when Giovanni Aprea started to handbuild rowing and sailing boats used for fishing in Sorrento, basing his craft on the shape and form of the traditional “gozzo sorrentino”. Now the shipyard range includes the Apreamare and Maestro yachts.Credits: Apreamar
May 12, 2025
GX Superyachts has unveiled interior details of its debut 42-meter model, the GX42 Raised Pilot House, designed for family-focused ownership with delivery scheduled for 2026. The yacht features an organic-inspired interior by Marco Casali and hybrid propulsion for efficient operation.The Raised Pilot House configuration allocates the main deck to a full-beam owner’s suite with private foredeck terrace, walk-in wardrobe, and office space. The lower deck accommodates a VIP suite with fold-down balcony and three flexible guest cabins, including a children’s cabin with Pullman berth. Social areas include a 10-person dining space on the main deck and an upper deck with hot tub, bar, and lounging areas.Owner Vladimir Zinchenko stated: "The debut GX42 shows what is possible, while remaining true to the principles of Responsible Yachting. For a boat with a slim, efficient hull, the volume is phenomenal."Casali’s design employs walnut wood paneling, white leather, and Italian fabrics, with curved edges throughout to enhance a relaxed ambiance. Lighting by Ultra Luce and artwork from the owner’s collection complete the aesthetic."This is no showboat for flexing the muscles," said Casali. "We worked closely with the owners to realise their priorities for a family friendly design that favours extended periods on board."The GX42 represents the first released details of GX Superyachts’ new line, emphasizing sustainable materials and long-range cruising capabilities.Credits: GX Superyachts
May 12, 2025
Feadship has unveiled Project 824, a 100-meter fully custom superyacht that represents the latest advancement in technical refinement and architectural design. The vessel, designed by Jamsen with naval architecture by Feadship De Voogt Naval Architects, features a diesel-electric propulsion system with ABB pod drives for efficient and low-vibration operation.As the second-largest yacht constructed at Feadship's Kaag facility – following the 101.50-meter Symphony delivered in 2015 – Project 824 combines scale with innovative engineering. The yacht's steel hull and aluminum superstructure measure 100.00 meters in length, with a 13.60-meter beam and a loaded draught of 4.10 meters.Liagre is responsible for the interior design, though specific details remain undisclosed. The project underscores Feadship's continued focus on large-scale, custom superyacht construction. No delivery date or owner details have been released."Project 824 stands out through a combination of scale, innovation, and detail," Feadship stated in the announcement. The yacht is currently undergoing final outfitting at the Kaag shipyard.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
May 12, 2025
The Italian Sea Group has launched the 72-meter Admiral Armani megayacht, marking the first vessel designed in collaboration with Giorgio Armani. The ceremony took place at the company's Marina di Carrara facility, attended by representatives from the Armani Group, local authorities, and project team members.This yacht represents the first of two projects fully designed by Giorgio Armani, featuring distinctive exterior styling and interior design by Armani/Casa. The collaboration with The Italian Sea Group's Centro Stile combines minimalist aesthetics with advanced naval engineering.Key design elements include geometric volumes with curved surfaces, satin aluminum and steel detailing, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. The upper decks incorporate open-air lounges and a helicopter landing area. Interior materials feature Black Marquinia marble, golden Calacatta, and Canaletto walnut, complemented by custom lighting and fabrics."This yacht represents the confluence of Giorgio Armani's poetic elegance and The Italian Sea Group's technical excellence," said Giovanni Costantino, Founder & CEO of The Italian Sea Group.The Admiral Armani 72m will make its official debut at the Monaco Yacht Show in September 2025. The vessel measures 72 meters in length and represents a new direction in luxury yacht design through the Armani collaboration. Technical specifications and performance details were not disclosed in the announcement.The Italian Sea Group is a global operator in the luxury yachting industry, listed on Euronext Milan (“EXM”) and active in the construction and refit of motor yachts and sailing yachts up to 140 meters. The Company, led by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Costantino, operates on the market with the brands Admiral, renown for elegant and prestigious yachts, Tecnomar, Perini Navi, and Picchiotti; the Company has a business unit, NCA Refit, that manages the maintenance and refit services for yachts and mega yachts with a length over 60 meters. Credit: Giuliano Sargentini/The Italian Sea Group
May 7, 2025
Silent Yachts has announced its 24-meter flagship solar-electric catamaran, the SY80, is approaching completion. The Italian builder recently launched two SY62 3-Deck Open models and one SY62 3-Deck Closed variant from its Fano shipyard as part of its plan to deliver 10 yachts in 2025.The SY80 will be available in three customizable configurations: 2-Deck, 3-Deck Open, and 3-Deck Closed. The model retains the sustainable features of Silent Yachts' smaller vessels while offering increased volume, accommodating up to 12 guests. Key features include an open layout, spacious staterooms, and ample storage for water toys."We can accommodate a very high number of different configurations, making the yacht of your dreams into a lived reality," said Silent Yachts CEO Fabrizio Iarrera. Owners can opt for an on-deck master suite or an open-plan salon with the master cabin below deck.Performance specifications include a top speed of 12 knots, cruising speeds of 7-8 knots, and battery capacities of 522 kWh or 696 kWh. The solar array peaks at 22.4 kWp, supporting near-zero-emission operation.The SY80 2-Deck variant will debut at the 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival (September 9-14), with sea trials expected in the coming weeks.Silent-Yachts is producing the world’s first fully solar-sustainable oceangoing production catamaran yachts. They are powered exclusively by solar energy and capable of cruising up to 100 miles per day. In 2009, founders Heike and Michael Köhler, who have spent 6,000 days cruising more than 75,000 miles all around the world, launched the Solarwave 46, the first fully self-sufficient blue-water catamaran after years of testing solar-powered propulsion, and they have been building boats ever since. Credits: Silent-Yachts
May 7, 2025