Austria

Silent Yachts 

New yachts at Cannes Yachting Festival 2025

SuperYacht Times curated a list of yachts expected to have their public debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025.


Yacht debuts at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025

The flagship 24.38-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> SY80 solar-electric catamaran yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8411" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sundance23.95m (78'7&quot;)Silent Yachts 2025">Sundance</a> has been launched from the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> facility in Fano, Italy. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365212/image/large-00ba6034c93c0d98550d4a4b57e317d0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365212">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 80 yacht features interior and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marco Casali Too Design (Company)">Marco Casali Too Design</a>, with naval architecture penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5288" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MICAD (Company)">MICAD</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1573" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Isonaval (Company)">Isonaval</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365204/image/large-0d68647d89191bcf13f2f3624d7b7948.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365204"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365206/image/large-8301b44251540164db391f91b057a82f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365206">Built entirely in Italy, the SY80 yacht is available in three configurations: 2-Deck, 3-Deck Open, and 3-Deck Closed. Each version is fully customisable, allowing owners to adapt every deck and layout element to suit their individual lifestyle and cruising needs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365208/image/large-18af74e719be97fb73f70b8915030775.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365208"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365207/image/large-403c798c799ce0793e5054f5eac5febc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365207">The first SY80 yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8411" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sundance23.95m (78'7&quot;)Silent Yachts 2025">Sundance</a> has been configured as a 2-Deck, with four guest staterooms including a master and VIP suites. This version offers ample space and is equipped with a dedicated helm station for steering the yacht while enjoying 360-degree views.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365209/image/large-efd4569ab1e1935bdc2a7fbedd935594.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365209"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365210/image/large-e712aaf91b77702ef3d949f526e9e35d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365210">The SY80 yacht includes a staircase aft of her port-side hull which can be raised to reveal a fully-enclosed garage. On the starboard side hull, additional storage areas can be used for toys and/or diving equipment.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365205/image/large-4877f648233eb6ca2c0a49f387e6121c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365205">Designed with long-range, environmentally-friendly cruising in-mind, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8411" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sundance23.95m (78'7&quot;)Silent Yachts 2025">Sundance</a> offers a silent, nearly zero-emission cruising experience, supported by a peak solar array of 22.4 kWp and a battery capacity of up to 696 kWh. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/365213/image/large-c2b7f4ba30607401d693af2abadc9296.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/365213"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8411" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sundance23.95m (78'7&quot;)Silent Yachts 2025">Sundance</a> is capable of cruising comfortably at eight knots with a top speed of 12 knots. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> has also sold two SY80 3-Deck versions.&nbsp;

Sundance: 24m Silent SY80 solar-electric yacht launched

The flagship 24m Silent SY80 solar-electric catamaran yacht Sundance has been launched from the Silent Yachts facility in Fano, Italy. 

Flagship 24m Silent SY80 solar-electric catamaran yacht Sundance launched

From shipyard roof-top installations to the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, solar power is having something of a moment, yet it is rarely found on superyachts. What is the current status of solar tech and will it ever increase traction as an onboard renewable on big boats?While solar power is increasingly a key source of renewable energy for national grids, industrial manufacturers – including shipyards – and homeowners, it hasn’t made much impact on the design and operation of superyachts. Aesthetics, practicalities, cost and low energy yield are all blamed to varying degrees, but that hasn’t put off some corners of the yachting industry.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/360288/image/large-3142d2e9e20f6752e2b892eb27c60d32.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/360288">No one visiting a boat show in the past few years could have failed to notice the Eco line of catamarans from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef Yachts</a>, for example. The Polish brand has made a point not only of using solar power in its hybrid projects, but has developed its own patented, toughened solar panels that are built into every square metre of hull and superstructure. Similarly, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> set out specifically to develop a range of operationally eco-friendly power cats that draw on solar as the dominant power source and couple that to a complete electric drivetrain.“The solar panels are limited by the space on board, which is why historically we picked a catamaran, and also why we didn’t pick a sailing cat where the mast and sails would impede the sunlight,” says Steve Bell, Vice Chairman of the board of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> since the company changed ownership in early 2024. “We store as much energy as we can in batteries, which on our Silent 62 is around 300 kilowatt-hours in total. Cruising at six knots uses 20 kilowatts per motor, or 40 kilowatts total, so a simple maths calculation [300 divided by 40] suggests an eight-hour range.”The 62 carries a total of 16.8 kilowatts-peak (kWp) of solar panels, meaning in an ideal scenario the panels would produce 16.8 kilowatts of power. This is never the case, however, as losses through efficiency, angle of sun, dirt on the cells, or any number of factors, always impedes energy generation. It is one of the details that sometimes gets lost in the marketing about the capabilities for generating power from the sun.&nbsp;“On a really good day our 16.8 kilowatts peak of panels will pull around 12 kilowatts,” confirms Bell. “There’s a misconception that kilowatts-peak equals actual kilowatts produced, but that doesn’t happen with any solar panel.”HotelerieThere is also the hotel load to consider. On the Silent 62, this typically equates to around 10 kilowatts when using energy-hungry systems like the air conditioning, which means the solar panels are serving the hotel load while the stored energy is powering the drivetrain. It starts to make more sense if you consider a typical operational profile, the Med cruising around the Balearic or the Greek islands, for example. This may involve two or three hours of motoring to reach a bay, then spending the rest of the day at anchor.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/360286/image/large-34e0f2687d1e3643a5ac280cfb228836.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/360286">“What we’re also trying to do is manage the hotel load to keep that energy burn to a minimum, including educating our customers about things like turning stuff off when it’s not needed,” Bell says. “That means you effectively get to run the yacht off solar and only need to charge the batteries with the generator every four or five days.”Bell adds that cruising at 3.5 knots reduces drivetrain power draw to around 8 kilowatts. If you minimise hotel load, this could mean free, continuous daylight cruising. But you still wouldn’t be sailing around the world using only solar power: “You could do that, but only if you want to do it at two knots – which people don’t,” adds Bell.For <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>, whose largest planned model is the 36.74-metre Silent 120 Explorer, scaling up is relatively straightforward for models like the 80, which uses the same propulsion drives as the 62 and has more space for solar panels to handle the increased hotel load. The challenge is transferring the tech to bigger superyachts, where the hotel and propulsion energy demands on energy are exponentially higher. This may suggest there’s a limit to the usefulness of solar as a renewable energy source on superyachts, although that is somewhat missing the point.Substance over styleThe idea of covering every surface of your superyacht with solar cells creates another obstacle centred on aesthetics. Styling is a key driver of owner interest, but one way to integrate solar energy more comprehensively – and less obtrusively – is solar glass. Glass that integrates solar cells to draw power has been around for a long time, and not just in land-based architectural contexts, where the technology is increasingly popular for large public buildings, electric charging stations and even private car ports and domestic terraces. For Italian builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia Yachts (Company)">Arcadia</a> it has been a trademark feature in several of its models since the first 25.9-metre A85 model in 2009.<img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/360285/image/large-dbf9883681543f622e5c78c873f8a66a.jpg?X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&amp;X-Amz-Credential=AKIA52TLVJASOPFTPHWY%2F20250515%2Feu-west-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&amp;X-Amz-Date=20250515T141242Z&amp;X-Amz-Expires=900&amp;X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&amp;X-Amz-Signature=e3fcb3614d27491eef26574cc5a02246a8dc41675daf7eaff9cb216c02d22fac" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/360285"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia Yachts (Company)">Arcadia</a> yachts show how solar tech can be transformed into something that is architecturally pleasing – especially from the inside – while meeting &nbsp;the twin demands of sustainability and practicality. The glass superstructure of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/5904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia A85 25.9m (84'12&quot;)">A85</a> contains more than 40 square metres of solar panels, producing up to 4.5 kilowatts of energy – not enough to power the yacht, but sufficient to make a contribution to the hotel load, particularly when combined with other energy-saving design elements. The glass used by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia Yachts (Company)">Arcadia</a> was developed by Austrian company Ertex Solar, which produces glass that can be specified with different levels of transparency and solar cell density, as well as patterns and designs. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1726" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia Yachts (Company)">Arcadia</a> says improvements in solar tech have led to a 30 percent increase in energy yield since its first launch.The same year the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/5904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arcadia A85 25.9m (84'12&quot;)">Arcadia A85</a> was launched, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> came out with its Aeon Future Concept, which had not 40 but 400 square metres of solar panels. The Dutch builder has since taken steps to include solar cells on one of its latest launches, the 59.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11001" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="B59.5m (195'3&quot;)Feadship2024">Project 713</a> (now named <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11001" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="B59.5m (195'3&quot;)Feadship2024">B</a>), which underwent initial sea trials last July. The first <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> to carry solar panels for auxiliary power generation, over 87 square metres of high-efficiency solar cells are recessed into the curved superstructure surfaces of the upper decks. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> claims that the laser-cut, walkable, saltwater-resistant panels are able to counteract the effects of partial shading and can generate a total power of approximately 16.8 kilowatts, equivalent to about 100 kilowatt-hours on sunny days.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/360287/image/large-074bff0f8c0bb48304ff542e071af6ce.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/360287">Other superyacht builders are considering how solar might form part of the future energy mix. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen Yachts</a>, for example, is looking into adding thin-film photovoltaic panels on the mast and integrating cells into the fabric of sun awnings for free, sustainable power.“In our case we looked at putting 25 square metres of flexible Solbian SP panels on the mast of a 50 or 55-metre yacht,” says Erik van Mourik, Manager Cost &amp; Accounting D&amp;D at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a>. “This would save approximately one percent of the hotel load on a 24-hour cycle. This is not much on its own, but if you combine it with other measures such as waste heat recovery and smart air-con zoning, you can create a more substantial package of energy savings.”<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a> uses solar energy to run its Bzero fuel cell technology. Sized to fit on a yacht, the array of solar panels at its one-to-one-scale test installation at the shipyard in La Spezia powers a hydrogen production module, which filters and de-ionises seawater through AEM-type electrolysers to produce green hydrogen with 5.0 purity grade at a maximum pressure of 35 bar. The PEM-type fuel cell then uses the hydrogen as fuel to produce clean electricity. The prototype plant is now producing hydrogen and space has been allocated for the Bzero technology aboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto’s</a> second 60-metre T60 hybrid in build.Another example of solar being harnessed as part of wider energy strategy on board is the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12410" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Zero69.0m (226'5&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2025">Project Zero</a> sailing yacht featured in the last issue of How to Build It, which is aiming to reduce onboard energy consumption from 90 kilowatts to less than 30 kilowatts. In this case, a key part of the energy production comes from hybrid photovoltaic-thermal (pv-T) panels developed from existing land-based building tech.In general, however, the pace of development of solar tech has been relatively slow, despite next-gen technologies such as perovskite structures that promise to improve the efficiency of panels at lower cost than traditional silicon cells, and allow for novel uses such as the creation of solar paint, or solar fabrics for awnings and sails. But perovskites are still a way off commercialisation and it doesn’t alter the fact that their placement and orientation will remain critical.Painting with lightThe idea of a paint that can capture energy from the sun has been mooted for several years, but so far no such paint has emerged on the market. In fact, there are three possible solar paint technologies currently being explored – even if they are still years away from commercial production or availability.The first is a product developed by a team at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology that absorbs moisture from the air and uses solar energy to break the water down into hydrogen and oxygen, with the hydrogen being used for clean energy.The second, developed by the University of Toronto, uses colloidal quantum dot photovoltaics – essentially nanoscale semiconductors – to capture light and convert it into electricity more efficiently than conventional solar cells. The dots can be tuned to different light spectrums by changing their size.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/360281/image/large-68f2bed1eccceb2588d227d89256d950.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/360281">Finally, there are perovskites. Named after a Russian mineralogist, perovskites are a type of crystal structure and have been a topic of discussion for a while now. Perovskites offer properties that allow for higher power conversion efficiency (similar to what are known as multi-junction solar cells) and can take liquid form – ideal for solar paint. A team at the University of Sheffield in the UK developed the first spray-on solar cells back in 2014, but more recently scientists at Oxford University have produced a micro-thin perovskite coating with the potential to generate up to nearly twice the amount of energy of current solar panels and can be applied to almost any surface. The researchers believe that over time, perovskites will be able to deliver efficiency exceeding 44 percent, pointing to the increase in yield they were able to achieve during just five years of experimentation, from 6 to 27 percent.Product placement“The difference in efficiency between having a panel flat or tilting is around 25 percent,” says Bell. “That means if you have panels mounted vertically in the hull topsides, or even on sails, then in the midday sun in the tropics you’re not going to get any photovoltaic energy. For example, at 0900 on a beautiful sunny morning in Venice we looked at what the panels on our 62 were producing, and the high-voltage panels – which are around 13 kilowatt peak and typically produce nine to 10 kilowatts – were producing just 1.8 kilowatts.”While the solar industry is constantly talking about new solutions and innovative products, Bell suggests the fact that manufacturers are selling huge numbers of conventional panels means there is less incentive to invest in new tech and new production methods with potentially high start-up costs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/360283/image/large-1ae37d5eaa282b6960df70ddc4073f0d.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/360283">“For our new models we’re looking at how to optimise the space for panels based on retaining aesthetics,” he continues. “We are looking at solar panel tech, but I think that isn’t going to change much for the foreseeable future – technology development at the moment is really in batteries and energy management. Indeed, while there have been some improvements in panel efficiency over recent years, by contrast we’ve gained 15 percent capacity for the same physical size of battery over the same period.”It may well be that the sweet spot for yachts that draw on solar power as a key provider of sustainable energy will remain in the 20 to 40-metre bracket, but there’s still no reason why larger yachts should not include solar as part of their power mix. For one, it’s essentially free and it’s green – at least in the operational phase – and anything that reduces the need for fossil fuel power generation is a positive.Moreover, by its very nature it drives a conversation about how to mitigate energy consumption on board, whether through smart zoning, developing new technologies in air conditioning, insulation and lighting, or just more efficient energy management. As solar tech improves with more efficient cells and more innovative materials able to harvest more energy, it’s only going to get more interesting for yachts of any size.This article was featured in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine/how-to-build-it-issue-6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issue 6 of How To Build It</a>.&nbsp;You can read all the articles from this edition&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine/how-to-build-it-issue-6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">here</a>, and stay up-to-date with all previous editions&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine" target="_blank">here</a>.

Solar power is having something of a moment, yet it is rarely found on superyachts.

Is the future bright for solar-powered superyachts?

The first renderings of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>’ 24-metre SY80 solar electric catamaran have been unveiled, providing a closer look at the flagship yacht before she makes her world debut at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/269" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival - 2025">Cannes Yachting Festival 2025</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/359190/image/large-95e89de452f5cbebeb5f4cd40cc67967.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/359190">The SY80 2-Deck version is following the footsteps of the SY62 3-Deck Open version and one further unit of the SY62 3-Deck Closed version, which the Italian builder launched from their shipyard in Fano this year.Showcasing similarly sustainable features to her predecessors but on a 24-metre platform, the SY80 yacht is capable of hosting as many as 12 guests across an open layout including spacious staterooms. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/359189/image/large-d43cc666a0162b10ce9cd5b170cf89d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/359189">The SY80 yacht’s owners can choose from a 2-Deck, 3-Deck Open or 3-Deck Closed configuration, all of which have the option to offer an on-deck master suite or an entirely open-plan salon with the master suite positioned on the lower deck.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> CEO Fabrizio Iarrera commented: “We are so excited to introduce our latest model to the market this year. What sets the SY80 apart from other competing models is the fact that owners can fully customise every deck, tailoring each space to match their functional needs and individual style. We can accommodate a very high number of different configurations, making the yacht of your dreams into a lived reality.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/359188/image/large-7c78f4ae8f90819b9f499629ea5dbac1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/359188">In terms of her performance, the catamaran combines an eco-conscious design and advanced technology for a near zero-emission cruising experience. The SY80 yacht reaches a cruising speed of seven to eight knots and a top speed of 12 knots. She has a battery capacity of 522 kilowatt-hours or 696 kilowatt-hours, with a peak solar array of 22.4 kilowatt-peaks.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/359191/image/large-886142ca074d5b31599f7ee9a4b26dad.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/359191">

First look at Silent Yachts’ 24m SY80 catamaran 

The first renderings of Silent Yachts’ 24-metre SY80 solar electric catamaran have been unveiled.



First look at Silent Yachts’ 24m SY80 solar electric catamaran 

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a> has expanded its operations in Europe to meet the growing demand for yacht sales and charter services. With Monaco as its European headquarters, the company is well-positioned to offer expertise and support to clients across the region.“As boats grew in size and more began arriving in Europe, we recognised the need to support those customers here,” explains Jeremy Roche, Director for Europe at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a>. “Once we had that capability, it made sense to extend our services to other clients who could benefit from the same model. It was about enhancing service for our existing clients and then expanding into a new market.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/352040/image/large-aa7e7a497a3517e493f2d271d256dd6c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/352040">Since opening its European office in April 2022, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a> has grown to a team of 16, with eight members based in Monaco and the rest operating as independent brokers in key Mediterranean locations.&nbsp;The company’s commitment to service remains central to its expansion. “Good service is about knowledge, expertise, and a deep passion for yachts. That’s what we prioritise,” Roche notes. “When you walk into our office here, you’re going to get a European vibe. We have a very international team – Canadians, English, French, Brazilian, Swedish, Albanian—so you’ll get that diverse, European touch, but also with a lot of enthusiasm, dynamism, and that can-do spirit from the US.”This strategic presence has strengthened <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison</a>’s ability to provide tailored yacht sales and charter management services.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/283658/image/large-bf51083927310ed43930943a18a48882.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/283658">Expanding the Charter Fleet<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison</a> Europe’s charter division has seen steady growth, with a fleet now comprising nine yachts and plans to add three more in the coming months. Each yacht in the fleet offers a unique charter experience, from eco-friendly designs to classic superyachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357322/image/large-14bc47db351a968e5ac39b6a5faec770.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357322">Today, the fleet nine-strong includes Silent Grace, an 18.86-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> model that prioritises sustainability, Inspirante a 20.4-metre sailing catamaran from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7778" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fountaine Pajot (Company)">Foutaine Pajot</a> and Semela, a 22.82-metre flybridge motor yacht from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5729" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Absolute Yachts (Company)">Absolute Yachts</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/249663/image/large-f39523ddc74bf65e5c535a67ee70a93e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/249663"> Larger yachts such as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5672" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Evereast35.05m (114'12&quot;)Sunseeker2013">Evereast</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7363" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Palm36.62m (120'2&quot;)Canados2019">The Palm</a>, both over 35-metres, cater to those seeking expansive decks and luxury amenities, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1010" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sea Lady II41.25m (135'4&quot;)W.A. Souter & Sons1986">Sea Lady II</a> provides a timeless experience following a 2024 refit. Sailing enthusiasts can opt for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ellen 40.4m (132'7&quot;)Perini Navi2001">Ellen</a>, a 41-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a>, and at the top end of the fleet, are two brand new yachts, the 35.75-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11594" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Unique S35.75m (117'3&quot;)Sanlorenzo2024">Unique S</a>, launched last year, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12044" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gioia43.0m (141'1&quot;)Codecasa S.p.A.2024">Gioia</a>, a brand-new 43-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/162" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Codecasa S.p.A. (Company)">Codecasa</a>, that offers an ultra-luxurious charter experience with rates up to €275,000 per week (plus expenses).<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/357321/image/large-e734c1b57390a3bee4edec11ad4632f8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/357321">“Looking ahead, we want to continue adding to our services. Nine boats is a solid start, but we have ambitions for more,” says Roche. “We’re particularly proud to have recently added <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12044" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gioia43.0m (141'1&quot;)Codecasa S.p.A.2024">Gioia</a> to our charter management fleet. We also expect three more yachts to be joining our fleet in the coming months.”With an increasing number of high-value charter listings, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a> is setting new benchmarks. “The biggest success I’d highlight is on the charter management side. We’ve just had our first quote that’s over $200,000 a week, which is a milestone for us. The next target is $300,000 a week, and eventually, we want to hit $500,000,” Roche adds.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/352047/image/large-517978a5aa6256d0869fc67feb6c1ba9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/352047"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a> is preparing to make its mark at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/251" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MYBA Charter Show - 2025- 35th Edition">MYBA Charter Show</a>: “We’re quite proud of this because we’ve never exhibited a yacht there before,” says Roche. “We now have nine boats in our fleet, and we’ve asked all our owners what they would like to do. It seems all of them have requested to be part of it, so we’re in the process of applying right now. We’re hopeful that we can secure at least two yachts for the show, but of course, it depends on space and availability. This will be a big moment for us.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/276439/image/large-5d0e96dd70316d12074110f8ae4542ca.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/276439">Tailored approach to serviceBeyond fleet expansion, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a> is leveraging data and digital marketing to strengthen its presence. “I’m a big fan of data, actually, and have been for a long time,” says Roche. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison</a> is a firm believer in the power of social media. Our approach to digital marketing and service applies just as well here as it does in the US.”As <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a> strengthens its European operations, the company’s focus remains firmly on the future. “You’re only as good as your next sale, not your last one. The past is the past, and we’re focused on what’s next,” Roche concludes. With continued expansion in yacht and charter management, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/833" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Denison Yachting (Company)">Denison Yachting</a> is set to further establish itself as a key player in the European market.

Denison Yachting on European expansion

Denison Yachting has expanded its operations in Europe to meet the growing demand for yacht sales and charter services.

Denison Yachting strengthens European foothold with Monaco hub and expanding charter fleet

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> has announced a close collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a> to design a new generation of solar yachts for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> fleet up to 24 metres.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340593/image/large-aad1b43ff49eec231a53e5a43b9f1fac.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340593"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> currently produces several yachts ranging from 18 to 37 metres, including the SY60, SY80 and SY120 Explorer series. This new collaboration looks to bring together the two brands to create a new evolution of catamarans, with accommodation and styling from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a>.“The collaboration is a blend of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a>’s sophistication and innovative approach to yacht design with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>’ philosophy of sustainability and advanced technology,” explained Silent Yachts CEO Fabrizio Iarrera.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340594/image/large-268735f1bf8b77ef8326be034af2f505.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340594">The first model to feature interior and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a> is currently still in the design phase, but has an expected launch date of 2026. Moving forward, every vessel up to 24 metres will now be designed by the Venice-based studio.Founded in 1990, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a> is known for its work on some of the world’s most iconic yachts, such as the 141.63-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6426" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nord141.63m (464'8&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2021">Nord</a>, the 106.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a> and more recently, the 122-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kismet122.0m (400'3&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2024">Kismet</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340592/image/large-a4d342343c2c8771f895f0e9823bf7f6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340592">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/65" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nuvolari Lenard (Company)">Nuvolari Lenard</a> brings the same passion and attention to detail to both superyachts and smaller semi-custom yachts, always maintaining our signature style,” added co-founders Carlo Nuvolari and Dan Lenard.&nbsp;“We are excited to be working with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>, who share our values of innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to pushing boundaries.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340596/image/large-5e59980eeac789f55a27197d4ced9b3f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340596">According to <a href="https://sytiq.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Superyacht iQ</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> has several yachts in-build from its popular 23.95-metre Silent 80 series. The first two solar-electric Silent 80 catamarans were sold in June 2024, with an expected delivery date of 2025.

Nuvolari Lenard collaborates with Silent Yachts for new yachts up to 24m

Silent Yachts has announced a collaboration with Nuvolari Lenard to design a new generation of solar yachts up to 24m.

Silent Yachts to collaborate with Nuvolari Lenard for new yachts up to 24m

A new superyacht concept, Zeitgeist, has been revealed by Swiss designer Kurt Merki Jr. The 86.5-metre yacht promises to redefine sustainable luxury at sea, blending cutting-edge technology with eco-conscious design. Her unveiling is set for the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2024">2024 Monaco Yacht Show.</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326791/image/large-889721ca24fe6cf2918ea9806dd536b3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326791">Harnessing renewable energy, Zeitgeist integrates three wind turbines and over 800 square metres of solar panels into her design, providing supplementary power.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326793/image/large-666a0b224d6a609754acd4cfd596d560.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326793">The yacht’s sustainable focus is enhanced by innovative materials, including natural fibre composites, vegan cactus leather, and bio-based decking.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326796/image/large-f11b5cc933486464ac6668c410fdb2bc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326796">Merki’s vision for Zeitgeist includes a host of features that highlight both luxury and function.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326797/image/large-54dc23fe57d4730688c829963b0fecda.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326797"> &nbsp;The superyacht is equipped with a dedicated landing pad for electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (e-VTOL) aircraft, an expansive 80-square-metre owner's terrace, and an infinity pool at the aft beach club. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326794/image/large-d9dc88548534e603b4dcb4ee9c95a236.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326794">A hidden sky deck, shielded by the solar roof, provides an intimate space for relaxation while generating power for the vessel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326799/image/large-6059f611e1aa3210125daf501744fb1c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326799">The design also includes a fully automated vertical garden on the lower deck, where chefs can grow fresh herbs and vegetables.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326652/image/large-493d9f9fcd4604359b9bcbe8309533be.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326652">Michael Köhler, former owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>, offered consultation on the yacht’s solar technology.Merki describes the yacht as a reflection of “next-generation yacht owners” who prioritise sustainability. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326803/image/large-fe304489b59e53dfba68d853405855ea.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326803">He explains that Zeitgeist is designed not only for luxury but also to minimise environmental impact, recognising the need to safeguard the oceans for future generations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326647/image/large-a717cd4bdf43011188a54a0995e62f6d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326647">Studio KMJ, Merki’s Switzerland-based design firm, has collaborated with several forward-thinking companies on the concept’s materials and technologies. Zeitgeist joins a growing trend in the superyacht industry, where designs are evolving to meet the demands of an increasingly eco-conscious clientele.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/326802/image/large-167e7bab8738fca224de315304986cc8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/326802">

New superyacht concept Zeitgeist for next-generation yacht owners

 Introducing Zeitgeist, an 86.5m superyacht concept by Kurt Merki Jr., blending sustainable technology with luxury.

New superyacht concept Zeitgeist for “next-generation yacht owners” 

While Italy is widely recognised as a powerhouse in the yachting industry, the Marche region in particular is home to more than 200 companies, with over 3,000 direct employees, and an estimated 10,000 indirect employees within the ship building sector. Located in the east of the country between the Apennine mountains and the Adriatic sea, this district flanked by beaches, mountains, and greenery offers unique frontiers and entrepreneurial opportunities for yachting.&nbsp;Between 24 and 26 July, journalists both national and international congregated in the Italian Marche Region for EYES, “Envisioning Yachting Excellence Summit. “ It aimed to showcase both the accomplishments and potential of the locality’s maritime industry. This two-day press tour included a visit to seven local shipyards including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere delle Marche (CdM) (Company)">Cantiere delle Marche (CdM)</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1757" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo Superyachts (Company)">Palumbo Superyachts</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1199" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachts Italia (Company)">Italia Yachts</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2504" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wider s.r.l. (Company)">Wider</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5172" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere Rossini (Company)">Cantiere Rossini</a>), and was hosted by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marche Yachting & Cruising Association (Company)">Marche Yachting and Cruising Association (AMYC)</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/345520/image/large-7d784ded1331bb0ffbcec625eca81be5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/345520">The opening night of the event took place in Portonovo, and featured speeches from Municipal Councillor for Budget and Deputy Mayor Gianfranco Zinni, who emphasised the significance of luxury shipbuilding for the region's economy. ATIM President Marco Bruschini then went on to reaffirm the importance of tourism to the Marche region, which could be further improved with a stronger infrastructure and mobility.In addition, Councillor for Economic Development Andrea Maria Antonini chimed in about how innovation and development is required for economic growth of the Enterprises, which benefit greatly from the region, considering the nautical sector alone brings in a turnover of €1 billion euros.&nbsp;While Admiral Maritime Director and Commander of the Port Authority Vincenzo Vitale spoke of the advantages of strong inter-institutional cooperation, Vincenzo Garofalo, President of the Central Adriatic Sea Port System Authority, revealed the port's new strategic plan, which aims to homogenise areas available to strengthen businesses, allowing them to expand while also remaining in the region in order to produce hospitality for guests, crew, and vessels.&nbsp;Director of the Regional School Office Donatella D'Amico outlined the vital role schools play in the sector. In his view, optimised schooling allows trained, highly-skilled professionals to start work immediately, which Professor Donato Iacobucci of UnivPM and Massimo Rocchi Director of the Marche Region for Vocational Training also reiterated.&nbsp;On the morning of 25 July, the second day of the EYES event, a forum centred around fashion and design within yachting took place at Ancona's Teatro Ridotto delle Muse. Throughout the discussion, a recurring theme “beauty associated with the concept of made in Italy”, driving home the renowned craftsmanship that is found within the Marche region specifically. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/345522/image/large-a7835265c2317108ceb7a4628e3937aa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/345522"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2090" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luxury Projects (Company)">Luxury Projects</a> Founder Laura Pomponi, who is native to Ancona, shared her personal definition of beauty within yacht design: “It means harmony, something comfortable that marries the functional with the aesthetic. The trend today is to build comfortable yachts with attention to technical aspects, where nothing can be visible and yet everything has to work.”For the studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1156" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Massari Design S.r.l. (Company)">Massari Design</a>, which are responsible for penning the interiors of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4152" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="I Dynasty100.8m (330'9&quot;)Peters Werft GmbH2015">I Dynasty</a>&nbsp;and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project X87.6m (287'5&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2022">Project X</a>, and more, beauty is something abstract that transforms depending on the view of the customer, and is as varied as different cultures. “We let ourselves be submerged in other peoples’ visions, and try to move away from opulence in favour of getting down to the essentials, in order to expose the soul of the design,” Senior Interior Designer Francesco Beccacece stated.&nbsp;On the subject of sustainability, all panellists seemed to reach a consensus about the distinction between “greenwashing”, which they defined as idealised or theoretical sustainability, versus what they deemed concrete and therefore authentic sustainability efforts.&nbsp;For <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2090" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Luxury Projects (Company)">Luxury Projects</a>, practising authentic sustainability means consistently employing a protocol that analyses various aspects of a yacht’s design, ranging from hull paint to the use of technology onboard. As for the interior materials, Pomponi explained that they make a point of avoiding marbles, and take the life cycle of the textiles into account.&nbsp;“Post-COVID we have proven that everything needed to complete projects has been produced in the Marche region, meaning there is no transport from one area to the other, so that we have a reduced ecological impact,” Pomponi added. “There are also plenty of emerging technologies in yachting for engines rather than diesel.” &nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1156" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Massari Design S.r.l. (Company)">Massari Design</a>’s Beccacece stated that, “architects and designers are responsible for sustainability”, and provided a specific example of the studio’s sustainable decision-making for a recently launched 98-metre yacht. Seeking out eco-friendly materials to cover the walls of the vessel’s stair area, the team opted to use an alternative to leather made from the skin of a freshwater fish in the Amazon River.&nbsp;“The fish is caught by Brazilian tribes from a remote location that is difficult to reach, and serves as the main source of protein for these tribes,” Beccacece clarifies. This is an instance of full sustainability, or “360-sustainability”, as Beccacece puts it, as the fish feeds tribes, has all of its skin used for the leather material, and revenue is then retained in the local area.&nbsp;Toward the end of the forum, speakers and audience members alike contributed to a lively discussion about shortcomings of the local yachting industry with regards to sustainability., The general consensus was that not enough geographic areas contain marines and that few startups are able to drive recycling for yachting materials. Additionally, logistic chains to support a transition towards alternative fuels are apparently either scarce or non-existent. Lastly, the fact that over 90% of boats are motor boats as opposed to sailboats can also be regarded as a weakness.&nbsp;The topic of sustainability continued to surface throughout the rest of the day, when we paid a visit to the following seven shipyards: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere delle Marche (CdM) (Company)">Cantiere delle Marche (CdM)</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1757" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palumbo Superyachts (Company)">Palumbo Superyachts</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1199" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachts Italia (Company)">Italia Yachts</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2504" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wider s.r.l. (Company)">Wider</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5172" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere Rossini (Company)">Cantiere Rossini</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/345521/image/large-c503c4b1b56b0be396deea8d6d5952b8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/345521">Ancona-based shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere delle Marche (CdM) (Company)">CdM</a> first arrived onto the scene in 2010, at a time when it was considered irresponsible to burn a lot of fuel and “show off” in certain places, according to Founder and CEO Vasco Buonpensiere.“Our location is an inherent part of our reputation. We started here because we wanted to stay as Italian as possible in terms of our workforce, attitude, and approach to the industry,” Buonpensiere said of the shipyard’s origin. Recognised for their explorer yachts, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cantiere delle Marche (CdM) (Company)">CdM</a> sold 12 units in the span of six months, but chose not to increase the delivery rates as they refused to “compromise on quality”.&nbsp;“The reason our business remains resilient even when the yachting market goes down”, Buonpensiere explained, “is because we’ve remained loyal to our mission and our DNA by building proper quality boats and staying humble. This is reassuring to our clients, who need to know if the quality is good, whether the vessel is long-lasting, and whether they could sell it anytime they want.”&nbsp;Another stop along the way for the shipyards tour was the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> shipyard in Ancona, which is where <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a> superyachts ranging from 60 to 90-metres are constructed, along with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a> made-to-measure composite range between 30 to 43-metres. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> now has a standout portfolio of different brands contributing the construction and sale of luxury vessels, including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Yachts</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/363" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Riva S.p.A. (Company)">Riva</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/584" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pershing S.p.a. (Company)">Pershing</a>, Itama, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2515" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mochi Craft (Company)">Mochi Craft</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/12" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="CRN (Company)">CRN</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/166" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Wally (Company)">Wally</a>.

Envisioning Yachting Excellence Summit in Marche Region 

The Marche Yachting and Cruising Association (AMYC) hosted a two-day Envisioning Yachting Excellence Summit, which shed light on the Marche Region.

Envisioning Yachting Excellence Summit: A deep-dive into Marche’s yachting industry

Italy-based yacht builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> has announced that the first two 23.95-metre solar-electric <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 80 catamarans are on track for delivery next year. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/167278/image/large-3a285b2c9e16a03b7c95b13bd2808750.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/167278">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 80 yacht features a sleek, modern profile characterised by its streamlined hull and superstructure. The yacht is equipped with large solar panels integrated into the roof of the main deck and flybridge, providing a sustainable energy source to power its electric motors and onboard systems. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/316823/image/large-29b7a22e40caf4ac340f62ee9fee3b95.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/316823">Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4335" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marco Casali Too Design (Company)">Marco Casali Too Design</a>, which were responsible for her interior and exterior design, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 80 catamaran can be either configured with a retractable flybridge, as an tri-deck version, or with a closed third deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/316829/image/large-126eb365a9d2963ad735c9cf1d1eb392.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/316829">“This is a really exciting time for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>,” explained <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yacht</a>s CEO, Fabrizio Iarrera. “We have two 80-footers that are due for delivery by the end of 2025, and we are working on a new model that will fit between the 62 and 80 in our range. We plan to introduce it soon, with its world debut scheduled for 2026.”Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/60549" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Interview: A new leaf for Silent Yachts? (2024-05-24 14:45:00 +0200)">Interview: A new leaf for Silent Yachts?</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/316822/image/large-c609ce7431fb49f8271ac80b5aa722c1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/316822">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 80 yacht boasts an impressive 52 square-metre open-plan main saloon, which offers all the necessities needed onboard, such as a fully equipped galley. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/316825/image/large-e34197ea6550139f4fbba28bb092c2e3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/316825">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 80's interior is designed to offer maximum comfort and luxury, with accommodation for up to eight guests across a four stateroom configuration, or up to six staterooms with an entire owner’s deck and private terrace on the tri-deck model. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/316827/image/large-3e1d13927507c307017147c61843b79e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/316827">“Representing a step up in terms of space and possibilities, the yacht shares a strong family resemblance with its smaller counterpart, and the principle of solar-electric propulsion is just as compelling,” added <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/316828/image/large-cdb1b9a3e51c652ece7ce99c87196192.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/316828">A key highlight of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 80 yacht is her enclosed tender garage, which can be accessed via the rising staircase in the aft portside hull. The garage can accommodate a tender up to 5.2-metres and has a direct charging point to recharge electric tenders with energy produced by the yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/316826/image/large-f2b24368b0456e41504373e5ce2e1bc3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/316826">As well as this, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> announced that they are on track to deliver 18 yachts in 18 months, including the first tri-deck <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 62 yacht which was launched in spring 2024, with seven scheduled for 2024 and 10 more yachts in 2025.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/316824/image/large-e8df4cfccc0f07d57123329cf0471943.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/316824">The Silent 62 3-Deck yacht will make her debut at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/210" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival - 2024">Cannes Yachting Festival 2024</a>, as well as the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/234" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show - 2024">Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show</a> where she will be displayed alongside the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 62 3-Deck Closed model.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/167276/image/large-971b7684552a09a133e5a8715d605ca6.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/167276">“We’re expecting this boat to attract lots of serious attention at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/210" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival - 2024">Cannes</a> show,” concluded Iarrera. “By fully glazing in the sides of the upper deck, this space becomes a luxurious addition to the interior accommodation, with a peerless master stateroom on the upper deck.”In order to successfully fulfil all orders, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> plans to keep developing its shipyard in Fano. By the end of 2024, the company aims to increase its staff to 220 employees, and by mid- 2025, that number will reach 270.

First two solar-electric Silent 80 yachts due for delivery in 2025

 Silent Yachts has announced that the first two 23.95-metre solar-electric Silent 80 catamarans are on track for delivery next year.

First two solar-electric Silent 80 catamarans due for delivery in 2025

After some months of bankruptcy speculation and concerns over the delays in yacht deliveries, the Italian shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> announced that it would undergo a restructuring to “transition from a founder-funded entity to an investor-funded one.” This April that process came to a close and Michael Said, owner of an in-build <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 62 and retired lawyer, was reported as the yard’s new majority owner. Michael and his team have since initiated significant changes within the yard to both strategy and personnel. We sat down with him to find out more about his vision for the company going forward and to understand how he plans to rebuild trust in the name <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>.&nbsp;Firstly, what encouraged you to make this acquisition and where did the journey begin for you?I'm a very, very strong believer in solar, electric boats. I think that's the future. Oil is a limited resource, it's going to get more and more expensive, whereas sailing will always be available to us. There has to be another alternative. So in a way it was very easy for me, when the opportunity came, to say okay I'll jump into the business. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308333/image/large-6e974e48db713ec1223b3e352e089d51.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308333">I also have a yacht in construction and when the issues with the yard began I didn't want to lose that project. I made the decision to fund them in liquidation because no one else did and that would have left all of the current owners without their yachts – in that sense it was an easy decision.Why did you buy a&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a>&nbsp;62 in the first place, why not another company such as&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a>?This is my first yacht, though I have always been passionate about the sea. I did a lot of research before choosing the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> and the main thing that swayed me is that they are the only fully solar powered yachts, whereas <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> are hybrid-electric. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a> is an excellent company and they perform very well in their niche, but I do not see them as a direct competitor of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>. We do, of course, have a small generator in case anything goes wrong, but the main energy source is solar and I was very impressed with that. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312409/image/large-2a9201244771d261a3c55586bcc87134.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312409">You acquired&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>&nbsp;with Helios Yacht Investments, is this a new company and your first foray into yachting?Yes it is. &nbsp;I have an absolutely fantastic team around me. People who know what they're doing. Between the new CEO of the company, Fabrizio Iarrera and Steve Bell, the vice chairman of the board, who is looking after my investments, I feel very comfortable that I trust them. I also know everybody at the factory and have made the effort to be very hands-on at the shipyard. Overall I feel very comfortable with our decisions and I plan to be in this for the long term.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312410/image/large-1771fd8422eb15b390d69bf915a24acc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312410">The company's reputation has suffered in recent years, particularly with very few yachts in the water. What is your strategy to change this?&nbsp;Right now our entire focus is to get yachts delivered. We are committed to all of those owners who have already invested in us and a lot of them have signed LOI’s, and we are also receiving a lot of interest from new clients. The promise I made when I took over the company was ‘I am one of you, I am in the same boat as I have waited for my yacht and I understand your frustration, but we promise to turn this around.’&nbsp;We are implementing new production lines to increase the speed of production and with every launch, I believe, we will rebuild that trust. It is important to say that we see this as a new business, this is now a corporation not a founder run shipyard. I invite anybody who has any doubts to come and visit us, we're not hiding anything. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/312408/image/large-80d9db438fd3a4258757c2931c1402a1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/312408">The only way to prove that we are committed is to fulfill the promises we’ve made to our clients and we look forward to doing exactly that.

A new era for Silent Yachts? 

 Francesca Webster sits down with Michael Said, the new owner of Silent Yachts, which completed major restructuring following bankruptcy. 


Interview: A new leaf for Silent Yachts?

In January, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> announced that it had to enter a restructuring phase, stating that it had to transition from a 'founder-funded entity to an investor-funded one, led by experienced industry professionals." The company has now completed its restructuring, with German-American investor and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> client Michael Said having acquired the shipyard out of administration to fund the construction of all in-build projects. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308337/image/large-812058c3c2553e503fd4e90ebb28dd38.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308337">The company has also put a new management team in place, led by the new CEO Fabrizio Iarrera, formerly of both <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4387" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monte Carlo Yachts (Company)">Monte Carlo Yachts</a> and Dolce Vita Yachts. Iarrera will run day-to-day operations with support from Michael Said and a board of shareholders. Steve Bell, a veteran manager from manufacturing businesses, has agreed to serve as Vice Chairman of this board and together, they will oversee the new business and assist the new management team to achieve growth.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308325/image/large-34efb50e8a582c4756be751867e7f036.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308325">New CEO Fabrizio Iarrera commented, "<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> is known and recognised throughout the yachting world for developing the technology to make electric catamarans a reality. There are costs associated with creating an entirely new market, and the original business fell prey to these, at a time when price inflation everywhere was spiralling out of control."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308333/image/large-6e974e48db713ec1223b3e352e089d51.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308333">Michael Said has acquired <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> through his acquisition firm Helios Yacht Investments GmbH and has taken control of all assets and intellectual property, including the yachts' design and the shipyard in Fano. Said's investment protected the companies 140 employees jobs and has enabled the yard to continue its production, with the company also announcing the launch of the first <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 62 catamaran. A further seven of the model are due to launch this year. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> has also confirmed that it will launch the first 23.95-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent</a> 80 model in 2025, the first of which were due for delivery this year.&nbsp;Iarrera added, "Our yacht owners are passionate about the brand and the yacht itself, as our very strong pipeline of orders shows. For Michael Said, it was an easy decision to invest in a restructured S<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">ilent Yachts</a>, and many of our other owners are just as keen. We know we have a job to do to rebuild the brand's reputation, but we've been thrilled by the positive reception we've had from those who have already put in orders."Over the coming two years, the focus of the yard will be to complete all projects currently under construction and will offer additional build slots of 2025 and 2026.

Silent Yachts new ownership

Silent Yachts announces new management and ownership.

business-hero#0

Silent Yachts announces new ownership and management

Amidst rumours of bankruptcy, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a> have issued the following statement: “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a>, with its shipyard in Fano, Italy, is currently operating normally. However, the discontinuation of a subcontractor, which produced a significant portion of catamarans, has prompted the company to undergo a restructuring phase. The goal is to transition from a founder-funded entity to an investor-funded one, led by experienced industry professionals. Substantial investments are being made by investors and supportive customers who have expressed their commitment, demonstrating unwavering belief in the product, dedication to the brand, and trust in its founders. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272081/image/large-a5093e227101c51503d63bb382b4abf7.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272081">These positive changes are expected to enhance the company's growth potential, fostering a lean and efficient organisational structure that focuses on the production of solar electric boats under the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a> brand in Italy. The shift to modular series production is scheduled for March 2024. In this approach, all yacht components will be arranged side by side in a shed, enabling simultaneous installations rather than sequential ones. This method of repeatable processes significantly reduces throughput times, minimises costs, and enhances product quality. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272072/image/large-a523009d5e4410b82d6f096630877896.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272072">Founders Michael and Heike Köhler are transitioning management responsibilities at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a> to COO Fabrizio Iarrera. They will continue to contribute to the company in sales and development capacities, and will serve as brand ambassadors. Fabrizio Iarrera's successful track record in setting up and efficiently leading shipyards, as demonstrated in his past roles with some of the leading companies in the industry, positions him well to guide <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a> toward increased efficiency and profitability”.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/231737/image/large-6377ebcbc0a3d3d0210fe4762f022e2c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/231737"> However, according to the Austrian newspaper Kleine Zeitung, <a href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/companies/silent-yachts" target="_blank">Silent-Yachts</a>' holding company, Asap Trading, is facing insolvency with debts amounting to €45.8 million. Furthermore, the article outlines two potential strategies being considered to mitigate the impact. The first involves giving individual customers the opportunity to acquire partially-completed boats in Turkey and undertake their completion. The second strategy under exploration is the transfer of litigation risks, related to overpayment refunds and damage claims, to a litigation financier. As known, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a> is a contractor for some of the yachts produced by catamaran builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5603" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VisionF (Company)">VisionF</a> We have contacted the company to determine if their production will be affected by these events. They have issued the following statement: "We are aware that our brand name appeared in some publications regarding the situation surrounding <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a>’ entities. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5603" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VisionF (Company)">VisionF Yachts</a>’ business continues to operate as normal. We would like to clarify a few things. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5603" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VisionF (Company)">VisionF BV</a> has entered into various contracts with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a> with respect to sale and purchase of 24 units (yachts and moulds). According to these contracts a substantial amount of work has been done afterwards and regarding these work, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5603" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VisionF (Company)">VisionF BV</a> has substantial receivable amount from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a>. Today <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5603" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VisionF (Company)">VisionF BV</a> is still incurring costs for these projects and will definitely take necessary steps to recover these losses. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5603" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VisionF (Company)">VisionF BV</a> is not the owner of any yard in Turkey. It is correct that it has a business partnership with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5603" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="VisionF (Company)">VisionF Yatçılık A.Ş.,</a> located in Tuzla, Istanbul, but these two companies are totally different organisations".

Silent Yachts forced to restructure amidst bankruptcy rumours 

Silent Yachts, an Austrian shipyard known for constructing electric catamarans, has announced its entry into a restructuring phase.

Julian Calder, is an experienced sales broker at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Partners (Company)">Superyacht Partners</a>. He has an extensive career spanning over 25 years in the yachting industry. In 2007, he took his first step contributing significantly to the establishment of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser Yachts</a>' London Office. Throughout his career he has played a pivotal role in the sale of numerous new construction projects as well as brokerage vessels most recently the 41-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/162" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Codecasa S.p.A. (Company)">Codecasa</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/359" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ability41.0m (134'6&quot;)Codecasa S.p.A.2007">Ability</a> (previously called Family Day) and the 30-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burger Boat Company (Company)">Burger Boat</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11941" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Adriatic Escape 30.48m (100'0&quot;)Burger Boat Company1990">Adriatic Escape</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/233459/image/large-c6fd059faa0dc12ea2d5e9ffd4d190ca.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/233459">Having recently joined <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Partners (Company)">Superyacht Partners</a> this year, <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> writer Enrico Chhibber sat down with Julian Calder to hear more about his journey, his thoughts on the market and what the future holds for the industry.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/288718/image/large-88f899564bd585f0449283f68e063725.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/288718">Could you share more about your journey into the yachting industry highlighting how your background led to your involvement in this field?My journey into the yachting sector began in 1995, where I found myself being paid to crew a 40-metre gentleman’s cruiser based in the port of &nbsp;Dar Es Salaam. We visited everywhere from Madagascar and Zanzibar to Reunion and the further corners of the Seychelles. The experience was mesmerising and ignited my passion for the yachting world. &nbsp;Upon returning to the United Kingdom, I initially pursued a law degree with the intention of eventually taking legal articles. However, after completing my studies at the College of Law, I made the bold decision to pursue my passion and enrolled at the United Kingdom Sailing Academy (UKSA), where I obtained my Yachtmaster qualification. Subsequently, I then joined the crew of a 40-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> Ketch as a deckhand. After that it was inevitable that I’d be in the yachting sector for life.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280592/image/large-b599f14f721acbb2500e4c69d08ca202.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280592">Is there anyone in particular who has inspired your career in yachting?There are so many individuals who have played an important role in the development of my career. One of my earliest sources of inspiration was Malcolm Maclean, I read all his articles in the nineties and noughties. Additionally, I happened to live near someone who introduced me to Tim Wiltshire at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a> and I pestered him for years for a job. He would regularly invite me to his office in Pall Mall and offer words of support and encouragement, which kept me motivated and I have always been grateful. As my career progressed, I embraced a philosophy of learning through practical experience, picking up little pearls of wisdom from all of my colleagues along the way.&nbsp;How does&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Partners (Company)">Superyacht Partners</a>&nbsp;distinguish itself from other brokerage houses in the superyacht sector through its approach and strategies?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Partners (Company)">Superyacht Partners</a> distinguishes itself through a clear and client-centric strategy. Central to this strategy is the commitment to prioritise our client’s interest at all times, as reflected in our “Family Office” tagline. We aim to provide a compelling alternative to the traditional approach employed by larger companies, offering a more intimate and personalised service.&nbsp;Our team consists of a select group of seasoned professionals who work closely with discerning clients, aligning our efforts with their objectives. We take pride in the trust that successful, intelligent and dynamic individuals place in our knowledge and expertise. This trust extends to our ability to identify the ideal yacht, negotiate favourable prices, manage risks, oversee logistics, safeguard their interests and transform what can be a stressful and emotional process into an enjoyable one. We consistently strive to add value to our clients’ experiences. &nbsp;What emerging trends in yacht sales have you seen over the past 6 months?Several notable trends have emerged in the sector. One significant development is the increase in available inventory, leading to a rise in price reductions. Concurrently, there remains a substantial amount of off-market activity within the industry.&nbsp;Another trend is the continued shortage of larger yachts, particularly those exceeding 70-metres in length, with well-priced, pedigreed vessels in this category selling extremely swiftly. This trend suggests a strong demand for premium yachts in the market. Contrary to concerns from six months ago, the yacht sales market has not experienced a crash as some feared. Instead it has witnessed a return to more normal levels of activity. This stability is indicative of the resilience of the industry and its ability to adapt to changing conditions.&nbsp;What factors influenced your choice to align with Superyacht Partners as opposed to an alternative brokerage establishment?Several reasons influenced my decision to join <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Partners (Company)">Superyacht Partners</a>, the most significant factor was the immense respect I have for their brokers. I encourage anyone interested to visit the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Partners (Company)">Superyacht Partners</a> website, navigate to the "Superyacht Family Office" section, and explore the "Track Record" page. There, you'll find a list of over 80 motor and sail boats ranging from 30 to 70 metres that they have successfully sold.&nbsp;Furthermore, what truly sets <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Partners (Company)">Superyacht Partners</a> apart is the versatility and expertise of their brokers. They have achieved remarkable success across various segments of the market, including large sailboats, large motor yachts, and new constructions. The depth of their market knowledge is nothing short of encyclopaedic, and their long-standing relationships with a loyal client base speak volumes about their expertise in this industry. To me, it was evident that if I aimed to excel in my career, I needed to collaborate with the best in the business.Another aspect that attracted me to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Partners (Company)">Superyacht Partners</a> is our small, closely-knit team. Unlike larger companies where competition can become intense and information may be hoarded, we foster a culture of sharing insights and responsibilities. This collaborative approach not only benefits our business but also enhances the overall client experience.Additionally at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Partners (Company)">Superyacht Partners</a>, there is a palpable sense of enthusiasm and commitment among our team members. This shared excitement for business growth extends to our clients, creating a positive and dynamic environment. This environment also empowers us to make swift decisions and execute tasks efficiently, recognising the paramount importance of speed in our operations. Our clients expect nothing less than prompt and efficient service.The industry has seen significant consolidation, with some arguing that size is essential for acquiring the power, reach, and marketing strength needed to succeed. However, the prevalence of numerous off-market deals, conducted without any marketing efforts, challenges this perspective. Especially as you move out of the smaller boats. Equally the independent ‘one man’ boutique firms, which thrived a decade ago, may be facing challenges today. I believe that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Partners (Company)">Superyacht Partners</a>, with its size and capabilities, strikes a perfect balance between different approaches. It’s an exciting time in the growth of the company and having known the partners for nearly 15 years, it was an obvious choice.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/288721/image/large-53eefa68a2673b2cbab5ba32be3a9916.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/288721">How has your diverse background as a captain, project manager, and sales representative influenced your perspective and approach?My multifaceted background has provided me with a profound understanding of the intricate dynamics that unfold throughout the various stages of yacht sales and management. This comprehensive perspective equips me to perceive the multitude of aspects involved and to foresee potential issues before they escalate into problems.In the world of yachting, captains and brokers often find themselves on opposite sides, with the broker's role sometimes concluding the captain's tenure or adding complexity to their responsibilities. I acknowledge and appreciate this delicate balance. Recognising that, in the end, we both serve the same ultimate client, and if you are each respectful and appreciative or the others role and responsibilities than actually a broker and captain can make a good team each acting as a check and balance on the other and this can often be the best way to serve the client. It also means I am comfortable working with new constructions and we are currently trying to find the right shipyard to partner with. There are advantages and disadvantages associated with this approach for all parties involved, so our primary focus is on identifying the ideal match.How does&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6312" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Partners (Company)">Superyacht Partners</a>&nbsp;incorporate sustainability initiatives and promote environmentally-friendly practices within the superyacht industry?&nbsp;Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our heavy focus on sailboats. Three of our team members have a deep-rooted connection to sailing, and it's an integral part of our DNA. We recognise that the next generation of clients, who are already emerging, are increasingly interested in sailboats.In the past eight years, there has been a notable shift in the industry towards explorer yachts and sailboat sales have declined. However, we anticipate that this trend will change. We are closely monitoring opportunities in the market for very large sailboats, renewable fuels, sail-assisted motorboats, and advancements in wingsail technology.I am conscious of our real responsibility here and it is something I think about constantly both in work and my personal life. In the future, we anticipate engaging in more partnerships with firms specialising in sustainable yacht solutions. Perhaps the most exciting prospect lies in collaborating with companies like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> or the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters</a> / <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a> collaboration <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12410" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Zero69.0m (226'5&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2025">Project Zero</a>, where we can actively contribute to the development and introduction of innovative environmentally-friendly technologies to the market.What advice would you offer to individuals aspiring to become yacht brokers?It’s imperative for those aspiring to become yacht brokers to prioritise knowledge and experience. Influencer-type tactics will not suffice in this field, as you'll be dealing with some of the world's smartest and most successful individuals, each with their strong perspectives.&nbsp;Moreover, it's crucial to have a deep understanding of the market, familiarise yourself with available vessels, grasp pricing dynamics, become knowledgeable about shipyards, and discern the factors that distinguish a wise investment from a poor one. In today's landscape, clients have access to a wealth of information, often on par with what professionals possess, along with their own insider networks. If they are better informed than you, the challenge is in demonstrating your value.Emotional intelligence is equally essential. Yacht purchases are inherently emotional, and it's vital to ensure that the process remains enjoyable, even during challenging times. Moreover, fostering strong relationships with fellow stakeholders such as lawyers, surveyors, insurers, and finance brokers is paramount. This collaborative network greatly facilitates deal-making, particularly when all parties are already acquainted and trust one another.Any exciting future plans and developments you would like to unveil?Our partners have delivered an impressive number of sales in the past two years, granting us the opportunity to reassess our strategies. We're currently focused on refining our marketing approach, website, social presence, and corporate strategy. This phase of the company's growth is particularly exciting for me.One area of interest is social media. Social media has become a vital part of the client journey, and we aim to enhance our approach. While many currently focus on glossy lifestyle content, we believe there's room for more valuable and substantive content. Instead of the typical champagne and sunset imagery, we aspire to lead in delivering content that delves into the yacht's distinguishing features and benefits, its unique selling points, market positioning in terms of price per GT compared to competitors, and the ideal owner or usage profile for the yacht.Finally, personally, if you could invest in a yacht, what would you choose and why?I would invest in a yacht, and in fact, I have in the past once owned a 12.8-metre 1980 Whitby, which allowed me to travel on a remarkable three-year journey cruising the Caribbean and Central America, it was an unforgettable experience.If I were to invest in yachts today, I'd take inspiration from one of my favourite clients and create a diverse fleet. Firstly, a small dayboat, such as a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5745" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Goldfish Boat (Company)">Goldfish</a>, possibly the 15.3-metre 49 Bullet or the 10.3-metre X10 Explorer, a versatile utility rib that excels in its class.I'd also opt for a sailboat, specifically a performance cruiser. Recently, I had the opportunity to sail on a 21.95-metre sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6465" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shipman Yachts (Company)">Shipman</a> 72 Nadejda, which left a lasting impression. It offers the ability to sail with ease, even with just two people, yet comfortably accommodates two families for extended voyages. It's fast, luxurious, and exceptionally user-friendly.To complete the fleet, I'd choose a sizeable motorboat. Currently, my top pick on the market would be the 33-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3031" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lynx Yachts (Company)">Lynx</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4975" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Robbie Bobby 33.5m (109'11&quot;)Lynx Yachts2013">Robbie Bobby</a>, it has a volume of a 40-metre yacht, exquisite interior design, a well-thought-out layout, and expansive open deck areas, this yacht provides an exceptional sense of comfort throughout. Despite the canoe stern, it offers excellent accessibility to the water. At an asking price of just €7.6 million, it holds the potential to yield an impressive annual charter revenue of a million euros.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/93774/image/large-67abdffc837095b9a7e21e1ca5c2765d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/93774">

Meet Julian Calder, the recently appointed senior sales broker at Superyacht Partners

SuperYacht Times sat down with Julian Calder to hear more about his journey, his thoughts on the market and what the future holds for the industry.

Meet Julian Calder: Senior sales broker at Superyacht Partners

Alternative fuels and propulsion are all the rage when it comes to more sustainable yachting, but the hotel load is a far bigger consumer than most people realise. We explore the challenges and solutions to improving energy efficiency.Talk about alternative fuels and the opportunity to reduce emissions is a sure way to get the superyacht industry animated. It is exciting stuff, but superyachts simply don’t sail like commercial ships that are at sea for most of the year cruising at a constant speed with propulsion the biggest energy consumer. For yachts, propulsion is only half the story and there is another revolution quietly getting under way that has been made possible by more advanced and more ubiquitous data sensors.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/207048/image/large-e76163dcc13e5078f4d40576ab1d13d2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/207048">“Within the last five years there has been much more data available and we’ve been able to track it,” says Lennart Pundt, head of yacht project development at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>. “For example, with the yachts we’ve built, on average the yacht is at top speed just one percent of the time, at cruising speed 15 percent of the time and, depending on whether it is a charter or private yacht, between 60 and 80 per cent of the time the yacht is at anchor or in harbour.”The non-profit <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a> (WRF) has been working with shipyards and individual yachts over the past three years to gather similar data with the aim of creating more detailed operational profiles for yachts. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281303/image/large-4186784d046b3c133da1e99e3e5b3a8c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281303">“Our data shows that, on average, energy consumption – and therefore fuel consumption – is split 50/50 between propulsion and hotel load,” says <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">WRF</a> executive director Robert van Tol. “Of course, for the existing fleet it is quite hard to change the propulsion part or the underwater hull shape, but there are certainly a lot of actions you can take on hotel loads.”In many cases the energy split is even more hotel-weighted: “On one of our 140-metre yachts, the actual hotel load is perhaps 1,500kW but the propulsion is 15,000kW,” says Pundt. “However, despite being one tenth of the power of the propulsion system, the hotel load actually accounts for 75 percent of the fuel consumption.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281127/image/large-d79e91f4e14db7d9d56a154ee76149e8.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281127">According to Hanna Dabrowska, formerly a senior naval architect at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> who now works for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a>, one problem is that many yachts are overpowered for redundancy purposes. She also highlights the issue of load balancing with the actual operational profile of yachts often a long way from the calculations made when the power systems were being designed and installed. When combined with the huge energy demands that heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) place on the yacht systems, the hotel load becomes a serious energy consumer. This is a sustainability issue, particularly at a time when large yachts are in the firing line, rightly or wrongly, in the mainstream media.While some aspects of the hotel load have become more efficient over the years as new technologies replace old (LED versus incandescent or halogen lighting, for example), the fact remains that the HVAC system is by far the biggest consumer of electrical power on yachts.Developments in this field are now starting to make a difference , although the downside may be increased system complexity and demands on technical space, which in turn impact serviceability and interior layout. &nbsp;“There is more willingness on the client side now to accept that if we want to be more energy efficient then some systems have to be more complicated,” says Pundt. “And we’re seeing that we have to install additional technologies that might increase maintenance and downtime.”&nbsp;Cool runningsAs the biggest hotel load consumer on most yachts, the HVAC system also presents one of the greatest challenges in improving efficiency, but a handful of pioneering HVAC system manufacturers are tackling the problem head on.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281140/image/large-b40a76e8ca25d77cddb924138233dfef.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281140">MAR-IX in the Netherlands , for example, which supplies and works with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a>, has developed its proprietary Hyper Thermal Process (Hyper TP) technology that it claims offers the highest reductions on hotel load currently available. The system essentially views everything on board, from the AC to the pool, as connected parts of the same whole, and uses smart system design and intelligent monitoring and control to take heat generated by one process – from, for example, the HVAC chillers – and use it for another process such as heating the pool water. The company claims Hyper TP can result in energy savings of up to 80 per cent.Blowing hot and coldConventional HVAC systems often use a chiller unit to produce cold air and then individual reheaters to regulate the temperature of the air in each room or cabin. One first step to better efficiency is obvious: put a hot water circuit next to the cold water circuit and use waste heat instead of a reheater. But that requires more piping and larger equipment, as does using waste heat from the generators to produce cold water for the AC system with absorption chillers.&nbsp;“That's a very big piece of equipment,” Pundt points out. “If we had more space, we would use it much more – it's quite common on cruise ships, but it's just coming on yachts.”For Michael Köhler, founder and CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a> that builds solar-powered motor catamarans up to 37 metres, an energy-efficient hotel system is not a nice-to-have but a must-have.&nbsp;“Aside from having opening windows that encourage natural airflow, which can reduce the demand on air-conditioning, our aeration system is totally different compared to most other boats,” he says.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/255819/image/large-ba7002dd0ba0ef11a0ea9472f68f8485.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/255819">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent-Yachts</a> system employs heat and cold recuperation, with the existing cold air not pumped out but used to pre-cool incoming hot air, and heat from various system elements recycled for water heating or other requirements.&nbsp;“The whole system is optimised,” says Köhler. “On conventional boats they do not really care because when they turn on the AC they need to start the generator anyway. In our case, we don't want to use the generator, and we need to save power because otherwise the batteries would quickly be depleted.”The problem with many of these solutions is that they run counter to the way owners and guests like to use their yachts, which suggests that tech advances have to be accompanied by a change in user behaviour if we are to see significant gains in efficiency. The preference is generally to have cooled interior spaces, but doors are often left open for ready access to the outside decks, which means the AC is working in overdrive. Moreover, smart zone tech that switches a light on when you enter a room, for example, can work in some environments, but on a superyacht it may need to come on before the door is opened because that is the level of service expected. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/255828/image/large-31357646b0f0c2e327c40a8b3fe4d509.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/255828">Pundt makes the point that energy efficiency is about holistic systems design: “It doesn't work to just say ‘OK, we exchanged this piece of equipment and everything's good’. It's many bits and pieces, everything does its bit, and if you go all the way you could reduce the electric load by 50 per cent.”The YETI is realThe Yacht Environmental Transparency Index (YETI) is a joint industry project managed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5877" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Water Revolution Foundation (Company)">Water Revolution Foundation</a> that aims to create a system whereby a yacht’s environmental profile can be compared to a benchmark operational profile. The benchmark operational profile was developed by analysing fleet AIS data, which showed that on average yachts spend 10 per cent of the year cruising, 30 per cent at anchor and 60 per cent in port. YETI gathers various data points from propulsion and hotel loads, among others, and assigns a yacht a score that can be used to calculate its environmental impact and, perhaps more importantly, identify areas for improvement. YETI 1.0, the first phase of the tool, was officially launched at METSTRADE in November 2022.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/248136/image/large-bac304626d2a21a173818eb629419d4d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/248136">“YETI is not designed to judge but to give a baseline assessment which then allows for more informed and knowledgeable decisions,” says executive director Robert van Tol. “If you replace diesel with an alternative fuel like methanol, consumption still needs to come down – it doesn't mean that you can just switch and be cleaner.”Smart zonesTracking technology that enables smart zoning of homes and yachts, which uses machine learning and AI to learn client patterns and preferences, is the latest technology to move beyond switching entertainment from room to room in a follow-me mode. Italian company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3559" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Videoworks S.P.A. (Company)">Videoworks</a>, for example, recently launched its Next Gen Room Automation system that aims to improve hotel load efficiency. Mainly designed for new-builds, the system combines existing subsystem sensors with presence sensors and external sunlight sensors, and has been developed as a marine-specific solution to take account of HVAC architecture, yacht movement and navigation.&nbsp;“The three actions in order of impact are machine support in controlling the HVAC system, regulating and managing the lights, and using AV-IT efficient devices,” explains Maurizio Minossi, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3559" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Videoworks S.P.A. (Company)">Videoworks</a>. “With all ship sub-systems on the same network, we have several software solutions to achieve savings. Across HVAC, AV-IT, lighting and other systems we can target around a 15-20 per cent improvement in efficiency.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281300/image/large-0e746daab4123f20026e3a8850f8f910.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281300">Land and seaThe extensive use of glass has become an owner-driven trend in modern yacht design, but it creates further problems when it comes to efficient energy consumption.&nbsp;“In Dubai the sun delivers about 1,000 watts per square metre, which means a huge amount of heat energy over a large area of glazing,” says Köhler. “Even if you have a shading system, you still need an incredible amount of power just to get rid of that heat.”Pundt agrees that large glazed surfaces are more in demand than ever, but designers are now more willing to compromise in an effort keep heat out of the boat: “They want the glass, but now they say ‘I hear you, let's make the overhang a little bit bigger’.”Other techs from land-based applications are starting to find their way into yachting: “We are using doors from a new supplier from the residential market, which seal better and therefore help reduce the air conditioning load,” says Giovanna Vitelli, vice president of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6046" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut-Benetti Group (Company)">Azimut-Benetti</a>. “What we have already done in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> and are now taking down to even the 55-foot <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut</a>, is re-using the heat generated by the engine for the hot water on board.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/211526/image/large-31f4f951420e517e738318935befea92.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/211526">Future fuelsThe advent of alternative fuels, and especially fuel cells, raises the question of whether all this striving for efficiency is really necessarily. After all, if the energy is green, why worry about using less of it? But clean energy is not a panacea that cures all, at least not in its current evolutionary form.&nbsp;“It's so complicated to put a fuel cell onboard a vessel that it’s worth doing everything else to lower the energy requirement so you can put less fuel cells on board in the first place,” says Pundt, “This actually goes hand in hand with the big leap in systems that we're designing.”The fact is that there is no readily available, off-the-shelf Net Zero technology that is easy to install, has a small footprint and is low maintenance. The diesel engine is very compact and fossil fuel has a high energy density, which alternative fuels cannot match yet. “Using energy on board will become more painful,” Pundt predicts. All the more reason why we should be getting excited not just about propulsion tech, but hotel load efficiency as well.This article was originally published in Issue 2 of How To Build It, you can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine/how-to-build-it-issue-2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">download the magazine for free here</a>.

energy efficiency on superyachts

SuperYacht Times takes a closer look at the challenges and solutions regarding energy efficiency onboard superyachts.

The superyacht energy efficiency conundrum 

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> accelerates production at their recently acquired Italian shipyard in Fano, unveiling some exciting launches scheduled for 2023.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272072/image/large-a523009d5e4410b82d6f096630877896.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272072"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>, the pioneering force behind solar-powered luxury catamarans, is ramping up production, and with a series of new launches on the horizon, the company is set to reinforce its position as a leader in sustainable yachting.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272070/image/large-d27c5645611fdc0dca72f9e29a1d8590.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272070"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272074/image/large-43a2af9428af58e7cfe441c8a3d0d899.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272074">Following the strategic acquisition of its Italian shipyard in Fano last summer, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> is optimising its production process and expanding its skilled workforce to meet the surging demand for its innovative yachts.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272073/image/large-24006fc05a66cc70a1503bb3347dfa35.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272073"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272075/image/large-19cee189e358f2605623c51bdccd005b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272075">This strategic move has allowed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> to ensure the highest standards of design, engineering, interior outfitting, and Italian craftsmanship for its discerning clientele. Leveraging a well-established network of local subcontractors and key suppliers, the shipyard is perfectly positioned to deliver excellence.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272071/image/large-0b7a21922b5571fd712ec6ae0a512dfe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272071">Spanning an impressive 22,000-square-metres of covered space, the shipyard's focus is primarily on the production of the Silent 60 series, a line of solar-powered, full-electric catamarans. Additionally, the Silent 80 series, the Silent 120, and a select number of Silent 60 series yachts are being crafted in Turkey."The GRP hulls and superstructures are meticulously produced and assembled in one dedicated area before being transferred to another for the installation of technical equipment and interior furnishings. Adjacent to the outfitting shed, we have a spacious warehouse for efficient component and material storage. Since assuming full ownership of the facility, our primary focus has been establishing a reliable and efficient series production process," states founder and CEO Michael Köhler.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pUeXVKaImSs?&amp;wmode=opaque" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>With the next delivery scheduled for June, enthusiasts can anticipate the unveiling of the unique two-deck version of the Silent 62. This exceptional bespoke project boasts two dedicated conference rooms, two guest suites, and accommodations for the crew. The owner, based in the United States, intends to make the yacht available for charter to corporate clients.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272078/image/large-bf3511c97c252abcfdc5d7b13d92f47b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272078"> <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272081/image/large-a5093e227101c51503d63bb382b4abf7.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272081"> A series of other exciting launches are slated to grace the shores from the Italian shipyard later this year. Notably, the highly anticipated Silent 62 3-deck (hull #4) is set to make its debut in late summer. Drawing inspiration from the hugely popular Silent 60, this version of the Silent 62 offers an additional deck in lieu of the regular flybridge, resulting in an overall hull length extended by two feet.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272077/image/large-382f71ee02ac2bed67f956393406a800.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272077">Italy remains a key hub for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a>, with over 15 Silent 60 yachts assigned for construction in Fano, and the next available delivery is expected in early 2025. However, market trends indicate a growing preference for the slightly larger 3-deck version among clients, showcasing the company's commitment to meet evolving customer needs.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272076/image/large-a2183e20b412a5a44a9599970aad0ae3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272076"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/272079/image/large-a7bd6bfb18addfa8a6d7efb14e17ac45.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/272079">Looking ahead, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5188" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silent Yachts (Company)">Silent Yachts</a> aims to achieve an ambitious milestone in 2024, launching one new unit per month. Additionally, the production of the fully electric Silent Tender series will be centralised in Fano. The initial prototype tender, unveiled at the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival, featured an electric outboard motor. The range now boasts three models - the Silent Tender 400, 450, and 520 - all available with electric jet propulsion. SuperYacht Times will follow the company's expansion and launches with updates.&nbsp;

Silent Yachts unveils new production line at Italian shipyard

Silent Yachts accelerates production at their recently acquired Italian shipyard, unveiling some exciting launches.

