Ahead of her launch and official presentation at the upcoming Cannes Yachting Festival, The International Yachting Media takes its readers inside the Ice Yachts shipyard in Salvirola (Cremona, Italy) for an exclusive tour of the Italian brand’s new flagship. Named the ICE 80, she is a fast cruiser spanning over 24 meters, built entirely from carbon fiber and epoxy resin, and designed to represent the ultimate synthesis of the shipyard’s design philosophy.
In this exclusive video preview—shot while the vessel is still in the final stages of construction—we explored every detail alongside Ice Yachts CEO Marco Malgara, discovering the technical solutions, layout, and innovations that position her to become one of the most exciting new models on the sailing yacht scene.
ICE 80: 24 Meters of Carbon Fiber for a High-Performance Fast Cruiser
The ICE 80 measures 24 meters in length, excluding the bowsprit, with a maximum beam of 6.53 meters and a variable draft ranging from 3 to 4.70 meters thanks to a lifting keel developed by PM. This setup seamlessly combines high sailing performance with access to a wider variety of harbors.
The entire structure is constructed from carbon fiber and epoxy resin, keeping weight to a minimum while maintaining exceptional structural rigidity. The generous beam, characteristic of modern high-performance yachts, emphasizes form stability—a crucial factor in achieving high speeds and enhanced comfort underway.
A Sporting DNA Built for Fast Cruising
Though configured as a cruising version, the new ICE 80 retains the sporty soul that has always defined Ice Yachts. Her sail plan features a mainsail exceeding 180 square meters, a 130-square-meter jib, and a gennaker that reaches up to 390 square meters in its largest configuration. According to design simulations provided by the yard, in just 6 knots of wind, the yacht should sail at around 7.4 knots, confirming a design approach focused on fast cruising rather than simple passage-making.
To ensure easy handling, the owner benefits from a comprehensive easy-sailing package: a furling mainsail integrated into the boom, electric furlers for the jib, Code Zero, and staysail, along with numerous automated systems designed to minimize crew effort. A dedicated racing version will follow next year.
Automotive-Inspired Technology and Innovation
During our exclusive tour, we observed several brand-new solutions adopted on this new flagship. Among the most intriguing is an electronic dimming system for the coachroof glass, which completely eliminates the need for traditional blinds. Derived from the automotive industry and already successfully tested on other Ice Yachts models, this technology allows for instantaneous adjustment of the glass’s transparency.
The high-modulus carbon stepped mast, standing at approximately 38 meters with three sets of spreaders, is another defining element, paired with a remarkably low coachroof designed to accentuate the yacht’s sleek, sporty profile.
Dual Cockpit and Separate Quarters for Owner and Crew
The exterior layout has been engineered to clearly divide the owner’s living space from crew operations. The guest cockpit features a large dining table with seating for ten, while the helm station is entirely independent, equipped with dedicated consoles, oversized winches, and a Magic Trim system for mainsheet management. Aft, a swim platform with an integrated ladder houses a garage capable of stowing an inflated four-meter tender, alongside air conditioning chillers and various onboard equipment.
Fully Customizable Interior Space
One of Ice Yachts’ standout characteristics is its strong custom vocation. As Marco Malgara highlights in the video, this first hull represents strictly the vision of her owner; subsequent units already sold can feature entirely different layouts.
In this instance, the master suite occupies a broad section of the forward area, boasting a king-size bed over two meters long, a study area, a walk-in closet, and an en-suite bathroom comparable in size to a luxury residence.
The main salon centers around a ten-seat dining table and integrates a power system powered by lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries with two 8 kW inverters. Guests also enjoy a spacious VIP cabin with private facilities. Last but not least, all joinery is handcrafted in teak.
Attention to engineering extends deep into the systems. The water and fuel tanks, also constructed in carbon fiber, are positioned in the lowest part of the hull to optimize the center of gravity, benefiting both sail and motor performance. Propulsion is provided by a 250-horsepower Cummins 4.6 engine, chosen as the sole power option for this model. Projected data indicates a top speed of roughly 12 knots and a cruising speed of nearly 12 knots, with significantly lower noise levels compared to the yard’s previous models.
The fully accessible engine room houses two variable-speed generators, a 48V electrical system, a main switchboard, monitoring systems, and easily reachable service points to streamline maintenance and service.
Three Units Sold Ahead of Her Debut
One of the most remarkable details to emerge during our visit is the project’s commercial success. While the first ICE 80 is still nearing completion, the yard has already sold the second and third units, confirming international market demand for a vessel that merges high performance, build quality, and extensive customization options. According to Marco Malgara, a significant portion of these owners are returning Ice Yachts clients—a testament to the trust built over the years.
The launch of the first ICE 80 is scheduled for the second half of July. Following about a month of sea trials and testing, she will be delivered to her owner before making her official public debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2026. However, for Yacht Digest readers, the journey inside Ice Yachts’ new flagship has already begun. Through this exclusive shipyard access, we got an up-close look at a project still out of the spotlight, stepping into the heart of the build process to deliver a first preview of one of the season’s most anticipated maxi fast cruisers.
Conclusions
The ICE 80 marks a significant evolution in the Ice Yachts philosophy. Carbon construction, semi-custom flexibility, advanced technology, and a clear performance focus converge in a project aimed at the premium sailing segment—without sacrificing ease of handling or onboard comfort. The overarching impression from this exclusive tour is of a yacht poised to play a leading role among modern big fast cruisers. Now, all that remains is to await her launch and, above all, our sea trial.
ICE 80 – Technical Specifications
| Length Overall (LOA) | Over 24 meters (including bowsprit) |
| Maximum Beam | 6.53 meters |
| Draft | Variable from 3.00 m to 4.70 m (PM Lifting Keel) |
| Construction | Carbon fiber and epoxy resin |
| Mast | 38 meters, stepped high-modulus carbon fiber with 3 sets of spreaders |
| Sail Area | Mainsail: 180 m²Jib (107%): 130 m²Gennaker: up to 390 m² |
| Engine | 250 hp Cummins 4.6 (top speed 12.9 knots, cruising speed 11.9 knots) |
| Electrical System | 48V system with Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries and dual 8 kW inverters |
Sources and References
- Technical measurements provided by specialized journalist Luca D’Ambrosio
- Statements from Ice Yachts CEO Marco Malgara
- Video published on the official YouTube channel of The International Yachting Media
ICE 80 – FAQ
When will the ICE 80 be officially presented?
The ICE 80 will make her official debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2026, following her launch in late July and a period of sea trials.
What are the main technical specifications of the ICE 80?
The yacht measures over 24 meters in length, is built entirely from carbon fiber and epoxy resin, features a beam of 6.53 meters, and has a variable draft ranging from 3 to 4.70 meters thanks to her lifting keel.
Is the ICE 80 a cruising boat or a racing boat?
The first hull is configured as a fast cruiser, designed to offer high performance combined with maximum comfort. A dedicated racing version will be launched next year.
Is the ICE 80 customizable?
Yes. Ice Yachts builds semi-custom vessels: while the first unit reflects her owner's specific requirements, subsequent units can feature completely different interior layouts and configurations.
