Sergio Maggi: the evolution of design at Absolute Yachts

Sergio Maggi is the Chief Design Officer at Absolute Yachts, the Emilia-based shipyard renowned for its production of motor yachts ranging from 47 to 75 feet. Maggi boasts extensive experience in styling, designing, and developing luxury yachts, which stand out for their iconic and timeless design. We interviewed him to uncover the “behind the scenes” of his work.

The design of Absolute Yachts is in constant evolution and, over the last three years, has taken another significant step forward, starting with the new Navetta 64 up to the latest Navetta 70, both boats that have revolutionized an otherwise stagnant market. What are the values driving this positive revolution?

The evolution of the Navetta range began some time ago. With the first model, the Navetta 58, our goal was to create a yacht that didn’t yet exist—a model that combined the livability of an “American-style” boat with maximum onboard comfort and Italian design. This path of constant research and development led us to create an entire range with increasingly sophisticated lines and optimized spaces.

The design effort has been significant, and we’ve focused on the features that truly set us apart, such as the open transom and the master cabin positioned at the bow. In particular, this latter solution allows for large windows in the cabin, which has been highly appreciated by owners.

Equally noteworthy are the spaces and volumes of the flybridge on our yachts, especially when compared to those of our main competitors.

Indeed, we have always prioritized livability over flashy, emotionally driven solutions that often result in limited practicality for life on board.

Another important dimension is sustainability. Absolute Yachts and Sergio Maggi have always shown great care for the environment. Recently, you introduced several innovations, including solar panels, which have allowed you to break free from the constant reliance on a running generator.

Our goal is to ensure clean energy for anchoring without the need for a generator, which means eliminating noise and vibrations, being able to swim without smelling exhaust fumes, and keeping refrigerators and onboard systems fully operational. This is an innovation that still needs to be embraced by the entire market, but we are on the right track!

Additionally, we can highlight another sustainability feature: the large, openable windows in the salon provide a pleasant convivial atmosphere without the need to turn on the air conditioning.

2024 was a particularly prolific year for your shipyard in terms of design. You unveiled two new models just a week apart: the Navetta 62 and the Absolute 70 Fly. What do these two models have in common, and how do they differ?

Just three months ago, at the Cannes Yachting Festival, we presented the Navetta 53 and the Navetta 70. We are moving quickly to complete the new Navetta 62, which will be on the water by the early months of 2025, after which we will focus on the 70 Fly. The market is following us closely, recognizing our continuous evolution and rewarding us with great satisfaction.

As for the second part of the question, while the Navetta and Fly ranges cater to different market segments, they do share common elements that are the hallmark features of Absolute models: spacious interiors, the master cabin positioned at the bow with large windows, an open cockpit, and the generous volumes of the flybridge.

The improvements are numerous. We’ve also focused on refining the design of the bow cockpit by eliminating any unnecessary elements so that the furnishings appear to “float,” almost elevated above the entire walkway. Additionally, we’ve developed new concepts for indirect lighting.

The main deck design has undergone significant updates as well, including the introduction of ceramic details that create a striking visual effect and an electric mechanism for the table. This feature, only used at specific times of the day, can easily be stowed away to free up more space. The aft platform will also be something entirely new on the market—a fresh concept that combines movement, safety, comfort, and functionality.

What is your work process like with your team?

I am very satisfied with the team I work with. While I am the Chief Designer, I receive support from many skilled and professional individuals. I believe no other shipyard is structured quite like ours. The Absolute Style Center, our pride and joy, has always been responsible for the research and development of every phase of the project. Everything starts with a blank sheet of paper where ideas take shape and evolves into the final product.

We do not rely on external professionals; all processes take place in-house. This requires considerable effort and substantial investment in resources, but it pays off in terms of product quality and identity.

Who is Sergio Maggi, the man behind Absolute’s design? What do you do when you’re not managing your team?

I don’t have much time to dedicate to other things. Most of my free time is still spent on boating, though I can’t quite experience it as a recreational activity! When I’m on board, out of professional habit, I observe and take notes, snapping photos of details to continually improve. This is one of the reasons why I rarely spend my holidays on a boat! Aside from that, I dedicate myself to my three children and my other passion: restoring vintage cars.

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