Grand Soleil goes small and large with new model development

The Grand Soleil brand of the Cantieri del Pardo Group uses its Boot Dusseldorf press event to present a flow of model announcements. These included the following:

–            the world premiere of the GS Blue, the smallest model the brand has;

–            the GS 52 Performance one of the oldest models in the Grand soleil range had its show debut after its world premiere at Cannes 2024

–            the new Grand Soleil Plus line with the first model the GS 80 Plus.

 The historic Italian brand, a symbol of excellence in sailing yachts, emphasised its strong market positioning with the model announcements at Dusseldorf. Also the brand’s production numbers confirm growth in 2024 compared to 2023, with a further rise expected in 2025, as highlighted by Marcello Veronesi, CEO of Cantiere del Pardo.

In front position for Grand Soleil at Dusseldorf was the world premiere of the Grand Soleil Blue, the shipyard’s eco-sustainable project, addressing the crucial issue of sustainability and the end-of-life cycle of yachts, key factors shaping the future of the nautical industry.

During the press presentation, Max Sirena also took part as a Grand Soleil owner and special ambassador, sharing firsthand insights into the features of this extraordinary boat.

The GS Blue world premiere is seen as a milestone in eco-friendly yacht building but also this new project embodies the commitment of Grand Soleil Yachts and Cantiere del Pardo to sustainability and respect for the marine environment.

“The sea is our passion and our home,” said Gigi Servidati, Cantiere del Pardo Chairman. “The GS Blue demonstrates how design, performance, and sustainability can harmoniously coexist, creating a boat designed for future generations”

The GS Blue is a collaboration between the yard and renowned nautical experts, such as Matteo Polli (Naval Architecture) and Nauta Design (Exterior Design, Interior Design, and G.A.), and leaders in sustainable materials like NL Comp. More than just a boat, it’s a statement of intent.

With the Grand Soleil Blue, Cantiere del Pardo  suggests that it redefines the concept of sustainability in yachting and that it also sets a new standard for future boat design, where elegance and environmental responsibility are balanced.

Measuring 10 meters, the GS Blue can comfortably accommodate up to four people overnight, offering a zero-impact sailing experience. At the end of its life cycle, the boat is entirely recyclable, with every component meticulously selected to ensure reusability, preventing today’s materials from becoming tomorrow’s waste.

This eco-conscious approach has shaped the entire design process, resulting in an innovative and stylish weekender. The model combines key aspects as follows:

–            sustainable construction

–            design for disassembly

–            Lithium batteries

–            electric propulsion

–            solar panels

–            thermoplastic sails

–            hydrogeneration

Emphasising the heritage of Grand Soleil was the show debut of the Grand Soleil 52 Performance which was originally introduced in 1987 and was the first collaboration with German Frers.

The third significant model news related the launch of the new Grand Soleil PLUS Line which covers boats over 60 feet. The term PLUS refers not just to size but represents a new concept of excellence and customer care.

This line has an exclusive approach, which involves sharing the project with a dedicated team from the very first phases, offering owners the opportunity to customise each yacht to their specific needs. Each yacht in the Plus line is entirely built in-house, guaranteeing total production control and the highest quality in every detail, including hull lamination, which is carried out internally using premium components.

The first model in this line will be the GS Plus 80 but also a new Grand Soleil flagship. The first unit of this model, already under construction in its Long Cruise version, will be launched in 2026 and will represent the pinnacle of performance, innovation, and design.

Heading the PLUS line is project manager Franco Corazza, supported by Matteo Polli’s expertise in naval architecture of Nauta Design, who  curated both interior and exterior design.