The Vespro 55 utilizes cutting-edge water jet technology, reaching an impressive top speed of 56 knots. Risa Merl grips on for dear life…
As it bursts out of the port of Cannes, the 16.5-meter Vespro 55 quickly accelerates to a cruising speed of 50 knots, creating an exhilarating yet smooth experience as it glides from one wave crest to another. Thanks to its optimized Deep V hull design, traversing the sea becomes a seamless adventure for this high-speed dayboat. While many yachts offer speed and comfort, what truly distinguishes the Vespro 55 is the remarkable array of technological advancements onboard, from lightweight materials to its innovative water-jet propulsion system, all cleverly integrated into its highly efficient hull.
The Vespro 55 is the inaugural model launched by the Italian shipyard Centouno Navi, located in Viareggio, with plans underway for three larger vessels, including the ambitious 38-meter Eterea. Although Centouno Navi is a newcomer to the yachting industry, the team behind it boasts a rich maritime legacy.
Co-founder Marco Arnaboldi, a naval architect and son of renowned designer Angelo Arnaboldi, established Studio Arnaboldi in 1984 and later founded AB Yachts in 1992, known for crafting high-performance yachts that reach speeds of up to 70 knots.
With a focus on flexible use, the windshield can retract to feel the breeze and the bulwarks fold down to afford more deck space when at anchor.
Marco shares, “In 2010, I left AB Yachts to embrace a career as a naval architect, working on high-speed projects for various shipyards across Italy, including Sanlorenzo, Pershing, and ISA.” His diverse experience spans many roles in the yachting world, encompassing boatbuilder, naval architect, designer, marine technology researcher, and even water-jet dealer. “When the shipyards need speed, they call us.”
Driven by a renewed passion to create boats independently, Arnaboldi partnered with his childhood friend and fellow designer Manuela Lucchesi in 2020 to establish Centouno Navi. Together, they designed both the striking exterior and the luxurious interior of the Vespro 55, while Arnaboldi spearheaded the naval architecture.
“In my previous projects for other shipyards, I often faced resistance to innovative technologies, resulting in only partial implementations of my designs,” Arnaboldi explains. He was eager to enhance boat performance, and with the Vespro 55, this ambition comes to life through water-jet propulsion.
Although water jets have been in use since the 1950s, the technology has progressed significantly since then. Essentially, water is drawn from beneath the boat and forced through a nozzle, generating a robust jet stream that propels the vessel forward at exhilarating speeds.
Moreover, water jets are known for their low noise and vibration levels. With their inboard design, devoid of propellers, they also reduce draught. “Compared to traditional propellers, water-jet propulsion presents less risk to marine life,” Lucchesi adds.
Given these advantages, one might wonder why more builders haven’t adopted water-jet technology for similarly sized boats. One challenge is that constructing a vessel with water jets can be tricky compared to conventional propulsion systems. Minor adjustments, such as altering the jet size or gearbox, can lead to significant complications. “Water jets are intricate machines, and even a small oversight can result in major setbacks,” Arnaboldi notes.
An en suite owner’s cabin is set forward of the saloon. Black and white lacquers, high-gloss woods, and mirrored surfaces create interest.
In the past, water jets were also perceived as challenging to navigate. However, in 2000, Studio Arnaboldi collaborated with Marine Jet Power to develop joystick controls for water jets, making them significantly easier to use. Renowned for his expertise in this technology and his willingness to implement it in his designs, Arnaboldi is well-equipped to breathe new life into water jet propulsion aboard the Vespro 55.
The efficient deep-V hull of the Vespro 55 reportedly consumes 10% less power than comparable boats to achieve its top speed of 56 knots. Its cruising speed of 50 knots is noteworthy, and at a more leisurely pace of 30 knots, the vessel consumes only six liters of fuel per nautical mile.
With the company’s motto “Fast is green,” Centouno Navi emphasizes that the Vespro 55 produces 50% less CO2 than its competitors due to its fuel efficiency. “One liter of fuel generates 2.7 kilograms of CO2, which is standard across all boats. However, with our consumption of just six liters per nautical mile, that translates to under 20 kilos of CO2 per mile,” explains Arnaboldi.
This impressive eco-friendliness is aided by the lightweight materials chosen for the Vespro 55, including recyclable PVC foam. “We prioritize recycled materials in our construction, including several used onboard,” Lucchesi mentions. The interior also features a mix of recycled and recyclable materials, highlighting their commitment to sustainability.
The predominantly white interior is enlivened by high-gloss wood and sleek black reflective surfaces, creating a modern yet minimalist aesthetic. The decision to minimize wood use and select recyclable joinery reflects a conscious commitment to environmental responsibility. Additionally, the builder has introduced a patent-pending vertical windlass system, optimizing space within the interior and adding an extra linear meter to the owner’s cabin.
Every detail of the Vespro 55 is crafted with efficiency in mind, even the aesthetically appealing exterior lines. “For instance, the dynamic air intakes are seamlessly integrated into the roll bar,” Lucchesi points out.
With its promises of performance, speed, and efficiency, it’s clear that Centouno Navi is making a striking debut in the yachting world.
Vespro 55
LOA: 16.5m
Beam: 4.6m
Draught: 1m
Engines: 2 x 1,200hp MAN V8
Water jets: 2 x MJP 350X
Max speed: 56 knots
Cruise speed: 50 knots
Range: 350nm at 56 knots
centounonavi.com