Innovation, sustainability, safety, and comfort. These are the four guiding principles of the project by Fabiani Yacht. It’s a challenge within a challenge, as overcoming competitors requires confronting relentless technological advancement with something futuristic and visionary.
Engineer Maurizio Fabiani knows this well. He is the president and founder of the Italian shipyard that, five years ago, took over the naval brand and revitalized its ambitions through a completely new production approach that adheres to ecological criteria, which are capturing an increasingly larger share of the boating market.
During an interview at the 60th Genoa Boat Show, Engineer Fabiani discussed the intensive research that led to the design of six boats, showcased at the Ligurian event along with their meticulously realistic scale miniatures: 101 ‘Classica, 100’ Classica, 100 ‘Ibrida, 70 ‘Classica, 77′ Classica, and 77’ Ibrida.
We are thus referring to superyachts designed in both traditional versions, powered by twin diesel engines, and in “green” mode, as seen in the 100- (below left) and 77-foot (below right) models, which, while maintaining the layout of the classic range, utilize photovoltaic energy.
The 100′ Ibrida features a large structural sail made of (retractable) solar panels that not only harness solar energy but also take advantage of wind thrust when conditions are favorable; under adverse wind conditions, the boat relies on electric engines while the sail continues to generate energy without hindering the boat’s movement.
The structure of the “photovoltaic park” on the 77′ Ibrida is also retractable: the solar panels are mounted on a series of sleds that extend laterally from the sides and centrally from the walkway between the cabin and the flybridge. When sunlight is insufficient, the boat uses its two diesel engines, capable of reaching a top speed of over 25 knots.
“The photovoltaic system and the electric propulsion system offer numerous advantages, including the ability to navigate protected marine areas without issues,” explains Mr. Fabiani, who was honored with the prestigious Le Fonti Awards as “Excellent of the Year, Innovation and Leadership, Luxury Yachting” in 2019. “Additionally, you can sail in complete silence while spending zero euros on fuel.”