Gianluca Fenucci, founder and MD of Yachting Expertise, will announce a new line of explorer yachts at the forthcoming Cannes Yachting Festival. Based on the successful engineering platform of K-584, the 36.6-metre yacht designed by Andrea Vallicelli and built by C.P.N. shipyard in Ancona, the range comprises four semi-custom models between 300 GT and just under 500 GT with several layout and technical configurations already developed. An ‘entry-level’ version of 180 GT is also envisaged. A glance at the renders on this page reveal the strong family resemblance with K-584, even down to the red ‘K’ logo on the hull.
Photo: Maurizio Paradisi“The owner of K-584 is a determined person and raised the bar very high,” says Fenucci. “He wanted an efficient and seaworthy yacht to explore the world, and he also wanted to have fun during the build. It was meant as a one-off project, but the energy during the whole design and build process was so positive, and the owners so pleased with the outcome, that I began thinking why stop here? The feeling was a bit like when I set up the ISA shipyard over 20 years ago.”
Fenucci has always enjoyed new challenges. After leaving ISA, he set up Yachting Expertise, a consultancy network of experienced project managers and technicians, together with Antonio Longobardi, formerly technical director at ISA. Managing the development and construction of the full-custom K-584 was the company’s first turnkey project. The technophile owner was impressed by the team’s engineering know-how and initial sea trials confirmed the ride comfort and fuel efficiency of the MARIN-tested hull form. At 10.5 knots the twin MAN diesel engines burn just 70 litres of fuel per hour for a range of 6,000-plus nautical miles.
“We delivered K-584 on time, on budget and exceeded the owner’s expectations,” continues Fenucci. “With K-Yachts we want to develop other niche opportunities in the market for involved owners looking for an efficient, proven platform, and that want to be engaged in and enjoy the construction experience. It’s a matter of competence and expertise, but also a lot to do with human relations and having fun – a little bit in the old style of yacht building when trust was an essential factor.”
Yachting Expertise plans to build just one or two units at a time, preferring to focus on high quality rather than high volume. Fenucci is open to proposals from potential investors, but not at the cost of compromising the core values of K-Yachts.
“I believe K-584 is an iconic yacht – a small one, but iconic nonetheless,” says Fenucci. “K-Yachts builds on that strong brand identity, strong engineering platform and strong technical performance. After 35 years in the boatbuilding business and some 55 projects, I’ve found a new enthusiasm for my career!”
Yachting Expertise stand: SYE245
K584: SYE048