Silent-Yachts is proud to introduce the Silent 55 at her world debut at the 2018 Cannes
Yachting Festival (September 11-16, 2018). The Silent 55 is the first and only oceangoing solar-electric production catamaran in the world. The yacht uses silent electric propulsion for unlimited range with no noise or fumes and minimal vibration, she is self-sufficient and virtually maintenance-free. The Silent 55 is available in several power configurations to suit a variety of cruising applications. All of them stick to the Silent-Yachts philosophy of relying chiefly on solar power for propulsion and onboard power needs.
The Silent 55 that was on display in Cannes is an “E-Power” version with 2 x 135 kW motors and can reach up to 14 knots. The model can be equipped as a “Cruiser” version, with a pair of 30 kW motors or a “Hybrid Power” version with 2 x 220 hp diesel engines and two 14 kW electric motors. A “Sailor” version can be equipped with all the previously mentioned drivetrain configurations and is rigged with a mast and
sails to provide additional propulsion in fair winds.
With 30 high-efficiency solar panels rated for approximately 10 kilowatt-peak, the Silent 55 uses maximum power point tracking (MPPT) solar charge regulators and lithium batteries, which provide capacity for all-night cruising, while a 15-kVA inverter provides power for all household appliances. The systems require hardly any maintenance and produce no fumes or noise. Because of that, the operational costs of the vessels are substantially lower compared to power yachts using more traditional propulsion systems. Michael Köhler, Silent-Yachts' CEO, said “What this represents to the yachtsman, among other features, is the ability to cruise for many hours at normal speed and throughout the entire day and evening at reduced speed. Silent-Yachts sets the standard for an entirely new dynamic in yachting: No fuel. No maintenance. Pure solar-powered luxury.”
The Silent 55 is available in five different layouts ranging from three to six staterooms with three or four heads. A full-width central owner’s stateroom is the centerpiece in three of the layouts, with guest staterooms located in port and starboard hulls. All staterooms offer double or twin berths, and all heads include a separate shower. Other layouts are available on request. In all configurations, careful attention has been paid to onboard ergonomics. The staterooms, heads and saloon on the Silent 55 are all created to welcome every person into spaces that are adapted to human size and create a comfortable environment for living, even for extended cruising. Large portlights and flush deck hatches admit natural light.
On the Silent 55, the interior layout is centered on a shared onboard space, a huge 40m² combination of saloon, helm and galley, with enough space for the crew to gather. The skipper will never be lonely at the lower helm as plenty of companion seating and an aft galley will keep the crew around. Three of the layouts feature a forward owner stateroom that capitalizes on the 8.46-meter beam of the yacht for a spacious layout with a walkaround double berth. Other accommodation plans optimize the space with additional staterooms as Silent-Yachts uses a modular construction and efficient design methods that allow additional layouts at reasonable prices.
With wide side decks for safety moving fore and aft, the Silent 55 has a spacious cockpit sheltered by a large hardtop overhang, and enormous open foredeck space. In addition, the flying bridge promises to allow helmsman and guests to enjoy time together underway with superior lines of sight all around the boat. The Silent 55 is equipped with the company’s aeration system, which provides cool and fresh air to all accommodations, heads, and in the saloon. The air-flow in each space is individually adjustable and can be used when the weather conditions require the windows to be closed. In addition, a reverse-cycle heat-pump system can be used to heat the interior when necessary, ensuring all-season comfort. The insulated hull ensures efficient achievement of desired onboard temperatures.
The Silent 55 is built using vacuum-bagged resin infusion to create a lightweight glass-sandwich composite construction that has sound- and temperature-insulating qualities. The hull is reinforced with carbon fiber at stress points, and uses vinylester resin to prevent osmotic blistering.
The Silent 55 hull shape was designed using extensive tank testing for optimal efficiency. The molds were then created using CNC milling for true replication of the refined, enhanced shape in the tooling. The Silent 55 has a shape both above and below the waterline that is designed to slip through the wind and waves with minimal resistance. Designed with sealed deck sections and collision compartments for safety, the Silent 55 uses watertight bulkheads and integrated interior furniture to create a torsion-resistant hull structure.
The electrical system can allow such features as a powered aft swim platform, a 1,500-watt electric windlass, and other features yachtsmen have come to expect on world-class oceangoing cruising yachts. Because the Silent 55 is designed to range everywhere as a true ocean-going cruising yacht that is selfsufficient, she is equipped to keep her crew happy and comfortable for virtually any voyage.
It starts with the benefits of the propulsion system. The Silent 55 can cruise efficiently for up to 100 miles a day for weeks. At the same time, the arrangement of the components enables the system to power all onboard systems without need of fuel to power a generator. Because of her revolutionary design, the Silent 55 travels just with the sound of the wind, and the water streaming past the hull, with no smoke, noise, or vibration of engines.
“The generator is only used to recharge the batteries in the rare case when higher speed is required for longer periods of time or if the weather is bad for several days,” Köhler says. In addition to the ergonomics of the living spaces, the Silent 55 - thanks to her advanced conveniences -offers a comfort level that sparks peace of mind. A water-maker powered by the solar-electric system, produces enough water to supply a full six stateroom company with reasonable rate of consumption.
On the Silent 55, all onboard appliances operate on the 220/110-volt system, to which her crew might be used to from their homes. The galley has refrigerator and freezer space to sustain the crew and an efficient induction cooktop, precluding the need for carrying propane. “Under normal, average holiday conditions, the boat is self-sufficient with unlimited range without burning fuel,” Köhler says. But perhaps even more importantly, the time under way is spent enjoying the sounds of wind and water, with no fumes or vibration, with no noise but the laughter of friends and family.
Heesen Yachts celebrates the delivery of Solemates (YN 20655), a fully customized 55-meter steel superyacht, to an experienced owner who has chosen the Dutch shipyard for the second time. This milestone underscores Heesen’s reputation for engineering excellence, build quality, and the flexibility of its speculative build program – enabling clients to personalize proven platforms without compromising on time efficiency.Built on Heesen’s successful 55m Steel design, Solemates combines the proven Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) by Van Oossanen Naval Architects with Omega Architects’ sleek exterior lines. The owner, a seasoned yachtsman, leveraged the platform’s inherent reliability to focus on tailored interior enhancements that reflect a family-oriented approach to cruising.Rupert Connor of Luxury Yacht Group noted: "While the changes from the previous model appear subtle, the cumulative refinements across the entire platform elevate this yacht significantly. Heesen’s commitment to continuous improvement shines through."The owner’s deep yachting expertise and hands-on involvement ensured a streamlined build process. Ralf Oortman, Heesen’s Project Manager, remarked: "Their team’s insight into the client’s lifestyle was invaluable. We collaborated seamlessly to introduce standout features, such as the breathtaking atrium – a true masterpiece that sets Solemates apart."Working alongside Silvia Margutti of Luca Dini Design and Architecture, the owner reimagined the interior with vibrant accents, a redesigned main staircase featuring gold-flaked acrylic panels, and an expanded sundeck hot tub area for social gatherings. Every detail was meticulously crafted to enhance onboard living.Following flawless sea trials in the North Sea, Solemates confirms her robust performance and efficiency. With a 760 GT volume, she offers ample space for extended cruising while maintaining the comfort and reliability expected of a Northern European build.Solemates will be available for exclusive charter through Luxury Yacht Group, with her world premiere set for the 2025 Monaco Yacht Show, where she will headline Heesen’s display.Niels Vaessen, Heesen’s CEO, reflected: "Delivering Solemates to a repeat client is a testament to our craftsmanship and the trust owners place in us. This project exemplifies how we blend efficiency with bespoke luxury – creating yachts that exceed expectations."Heesen Yachts is a Dutch ship building company that specializes in custom-built superyachts in aluminum and steel from 30m to 70m in size. Founded in 1978, it has launched more than 170 yachts since its inception.Credits: Heesen Yachts
May 1, 2025
Damen Yachting has successfully launched the first Amels 80. The vessel is the latest addition to the Amels Limited Editions range.The 80-meter superyacht boasts a gross tonnage of 2,175 GT and features a hybrid propulsion system for reduced emissions and improved cruising efficiency. The vessel can accommodate 14 guests across 7 luxurious suites, supported by a crew of 21. Notable features include a foredeck helipad, a 200-square-meter Sun Deck, a private Owner’s Deck, a 6.5-meter swimming pool, and a Beach Club with spa facilities.The exterior design is the work of renowned superyacht designer Espen Oino, while the interior was created by Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design in their first collaboration with Amels. Paul Costerus, Designer Interior at Sinot, commented: “The Amels 80 marks the first collaboration between Sinot and Amels. A project which provided us with the opportunity to develop something truly unique. You will feel at home from the moment you step on board.”The build of the first Amels 80 was managed by Burgess on behalf of the Owner following the yacht’s sale in 2022. Sean Bianchi, Partner and Head of Burgess Technical Services, stated: “We are delighted to see Amels 80, hull number 01 depart her construction dock and enter the commissioning and sea trials phase. This milestone marks the culmination of close collaboration between Damen Yachting, Sinot, and the Owner’s team in crafting a yacht that is truly one of a kind.”Adriaan Roose, Product Design Manager for the Amels 80 series at Damen Yachting, emphasized the balance between customisation and efficiency: “The Amels 80 offered the client many custom options whilst still benefitting from the shortened delivery time. This yacht is the ultimate balance of individuality and efficiency.”The Amels 80 has the following specifications: length overall is 80.00 meters (261 ft), beam overall is 12.50 meters (41 ft), range is 5,000 nautical miles at 12 knots, with delivery scheduled for Summer 2025.Rose Damen, Managing Director of Damen Yachting, expressed gratitude for the collaboration: “With today’s launch of the first Amels 80, we have reached another landmark achievement in the history of Amels. I would like to thank our Client and the team at Burgess for entrusting us with this very special build. We are honoured and excited to see the final phase through to delivery.”Damen Yachting is the yachting division of the Damen Shipyards Group. The shipyard builds and refits Amels superyachts, Xplorer luxury expedition yachts (previously known as SeaXplorer) and Yacht Support vessels. Credits: Damen Yachting
April 30, 2025
Grand Soleil Yachts has introduced its first weekender model, the Grand Soleil Blue, marking a significant departure from its traditional performance and long-cruise yachts. The 32ft 9in (9.99m) vessel is designed for day sailing and weekend getaways, featuring a sustainable build and electric propulsion options.The yacht is the smallest in the Grand Soleil range and sets new standards for recyclability. According to Gigi Servidati, Cantiere del Pardo Chairman, “The GS Blue represents the beginning of a new concept within the Grand Soleil range: a line that is agile, sustainable, fun, highly liveable, and designed for more immediate and flexible use.”The vessel’s design emphasizes performance and comfort, developed by naval architect Matteo Polli and Nauta Design for exterior, interior design, and layout. Polli noted, “The striking hull shape is designed to provide stability when the boat heels, to maximize power upwind. And in light winds, or when running, the narrow waterline beam delivers lower drag and therefore higher speeds.”Sustainability is a core feature of the GS Blue. The yacht utilizes Arkema’s Elium resin in its composite lay-up, allowing for recovery and reuse at the end of its life. The PET core material in the hull’s sandwich construction is derived from post-consumer waste, and the design allows for easy disassembly of components.The yacht offers fully electric propulsion as an option, featuring a 6kW pod drive from ePropulsion powered by a 190Ah lithium battery. This setup provides a range of up to 30 nautical miles at 5 knots, with the option to double that range by adding a second battery pack. The electric system enables silent maneuvering and a top speed of 6.5 knots.Performance-wise, the GS Blue boasts a 2.2m bulb keel (with a 1.8m shallow draft option) and a generous sailplan. It can achieve upwind speeds of 6-8 knots and downwind speeds of 10-12 knots. The design prioritizes easy shorthanded or solo sailing, featuring push-button electric Harken winches.Inside, the yacht offers modern Italian-style amenities including a heads compartment with freshwater shower, an efficient galley with hob, oven, and fridge, and berths for up to four, optimized for two. The interior design focuses on light and space, as highlighted by Massimo Gino, CEO and co-founder of Nauta: “A key element of the interior design is the light scheme, which ensures that even with lower ceiling heights, the yacht feels spacious and welcoming for guests.”The project is co-financed by the Emilia Romagna region as part of the PR-ERDF 2021/2027 program, emphasizing its experimental research and development nature.Cantiere del Pardo was founded in 1973 in Italy. Pardo Yachts, the brand of Cantiere del Pardo dedicated to powerboats, was born in 2016. The first model, the Pardo 43, was launched in 2017. Grand Soleil was founded in 1973 and is famous for its yachts, which ensure performance for regattas, autonomous long-distance navigation, as well as a high level of sustainable consciousness.Credits: Grand Soleil Yachts
April 30, 2025
Feadship has successfully launched its latest superyacht, Project 827, marking another milestone in the company’s history of luxury yacht construction. The vessel was launched at the Royal Van Lent shipyard in Sneek, the Netherlands.Project 827 is a 75-meter motor yacht designed by the renowned studio Winch Design. The exterior design features clean lines and a contemporary aesthetic, while the interior showcases a sophisticated blend of modern luxury and comfort. The yacht boasts a spacious main deck and a large owner’s deck, providing ample living space for its occupants.“Project 827 is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence,” said Feadship CEO Henk de Vries. “We have pushed the boundaries of design and engineering to create a yacht that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our discerning clients.”The yacht’s design emphasizes functionality and comfort. It features a unique layout with a large owner’s deck, offering unobstructed panoramic views. The interior design, also by Winch Design, combines modern materials with classic craftsmanship, creating a luxurious yet livable environment.Project 827 is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and engineering solutions. The yacht is powered by twin Caterpillar engines, providing efficient performance and low emissions. The vessel also incorporates advanced systems for noise and vibration control, ensuring a quiet and comfortable onboard experience.“This launch is a significant moment for Feadship,” commented Project Manager Jan van der Meer. “Project 827 represents the culmination of years of planning and collaboration between our teams and the client. We are proud to deliver a yacht that truly embodies the spirit of modern luxury.”The completion of Project 827 further strengthens Feadship’s position as a leading builder of custom superyachts. The company continues to focus on delivering exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design solutions to its clients.Feadship plans to complete the final outfitting and sea trials before delivering the yacht to its owner later this year. The launch of Project 827 demonstrates the shipyard’s ongoing commitment to excellence in the superyacht industry.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
April 30, 2025
The 56th Southampton International Boat Show will introduce several new features when it returns to Mayflower Park from September 19-28, 2025. Organizers British Marine confirmed a redesigned layout with specialized zones including The Powerhub for powerboats and Angler's Alley for fishing enthusiasts.New additions include: the Boating Academy offering educational sessions, waterside Lounge for premium ticket holders, expanded marina area with grouped vessel displays, on the Water stage featuring high-speed demonstrations. Visitor experiences will include the Try A Boat program with FlexiSail and accessible powerboat rides through Wetwheels. The Shipyard festival area will host live music and family activities, with a headline act to be announced.Ticket prices currently start at £24.99 for adults, with free entry for two children per adult ticket. Marina space remains in high demand among exhibitors, with increased berth capacity for 2025."The 2025 edition represents an exciting transformation," stated British Marine representatives. The event will showcase products ranging from paddleboards to superyachts, though exhibitor lists remain unconfirmed.British Marine, representing over 1,300 UK marine businesses, organizes the annual show which supports an industry employing 38,000 nationwide.Credits: Southampton International Boat Show
April 29, 2025