Sustainable luxury yacht design is redefining the future of travel, with Rossinavi leading the charge at Design Miami 2024. The Italian shipyard unveiled its hybrid-electric catamaran concept, Solsea, during a seminar titled “The Future of Yacht Design.” Glenn Adamson, Curator of the 2024 edition of Design Miami, moderated the session. Federico Rossi, Rossinavi’s Chief Operating Officer, and renowned designer Yves Béhar shared insights on reshaping yachting through cutting-edge technology and eco-conscious design.
A Legacy of Italian Craftsmanship
Rossinavi’s journey into luxury yacht design is rooted in Italian craftsmanship. Founded by the Rossi family in Viareggio, Tuscany, the company initially specialized in carpentry and mechanical repairs before transitioning to bespoke yacht construction.
Viareggio, known as the “capital of yacht building,” has a long history of producing luxurious and innovative vessels. This coastal town has been at the forefront of maritime craftsmanship for centuries. Rossinavi continues to carry this legacy forward.
“Our connection to Viareggio is essential,” said Federico Rossi. “It’s a place where tradition meets innovation. We’re proud to contribute to Italy’s reputation for excellence in yacht building.”
Rossinavi blends artisanal techniques with modern technology, setting it apart in the superyacht world. Each vessel is a testament to Italy’s rich maritime heritage combined with forward-thinking design and sustainability.
A Visionary Partnership
The collaboration between Rossinavi and Swiss-American designer Yves Béhar resulted in Solsea, a hybrid-electric catamaran for modern explorers. Béhar, known for his work across various industries, brought a fresh perspective to yacht design.
“We wanted to create a vessel that reflects luxury and aligns with the values of a new generation,” Béhar said.
Solsea integrates advanced solar panels, an eco-displacement hull, and Rossinavi’s AI technology, making it one of the most environmentally friendly yachts.
The Technological Edge: Sustainability Meets Innovation
Rossinavi’s commitment to sustainability is embodied in its BluE philosophy. This approach to hybrid-electric yachting is inspired by phytoplankton, which harness sunlight to produce energy. Solsea can operate entirely on electric power for day trips and maintain electric mode for up to 80% of transatlantic journeys.
According to Federico Rossi, “Our goal was to offer a yacht that provides an unparalleled experience while significantly reducing environmental impact.”
The hybrid-electric propulsion system enhances passenger comfort. “People like to navigate without wide noise,” Rossi explained. “Imagine drinking wine on the deck without the smell of fuel. It’s a transformative experience.”
BluE Philosophy and Beyond
Rossinavi’s BluE philosophy takes inspiration from phytoplankton, which harness sunlight to produce energy. Similarly, the Solsea catamaran features solar panels that generate power, reducing reliance on diesel fuel and minimizing the yacht’s carbon footprint.
The integration of BluE extends beyond propulsion. The yacht has a hibernation mode that minimizes energy consumption when moored. Rossi explained that Solsea’s solar panels can produce enough energy to supply a villa, emphasizing its role as a floating power bank.
The Impact of Material Choices
Sustainability in yacht design goes beyond propulsion systems. Yves Béhar highlighted the use of cork flooring instead of traditional teak, reducing environmental impact while improving onboard comfort.
“Cork provides both heat and sound insulation, creating a quieter, more comfortable environment,” Béhar said. “It’s a small change with a big impact on the overall experience and sustainability.”
The use of aluminum, combined with other carefully selected materials, ensures the yacht is both durable and lightweight. Rossi elaborated on balancing material choices, saying, “Matching materials to withstand heat, salt, and movement is crucial for long-term sustainability.”
AI-Driven Efficiency
A standout feature of the Solsea catamaran is its onboard AI system. The AI continuously monitors and optimizes the yacht’s operations, from lighting and air conditioning to energy usage.
“We want to manage power onboard without compromising the experience,” said Rossi. “The AI system learns from guests’ habits, ensuring the yacht operates efficiently while maintaining luxury.”
The AI also provides real-time data on weather, navigation, and energy usage. Guests can interact with the system through a user-friendly interface, creating a personalized experience.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Sustainable Yachting
The Solsea catamaran represents a leap forward in sustainable luxury travel. With features like hibernation mode, solar power integration, and a spacious owner’s cabin with a 180-degree ocean view, the yacht combines comfort and innovation.
Rossinavi continues to push the boundaries of eco-conscious design. The company’s focus remains on educating clients and promoting a lifestyle of respect for the ocean. “We’re not just building yachts; we’re building a movement toward conscious luxury,” said Rossi.
Conscious Luxury and Ocean Awareness
During the Q&A session, Rossi spoke about the importance of education and market transformation. He emphasized that luxury yacht owners can influence future trends.
“Our clients are influencers of new lifestyles,” he noted. “If we can change their mindset toward hybrid-electric yachts, we can accelerate sustainable technology adoption.”
Although this aspect wasn’t a central focus of the seminar, it presents an opportunity to explore further topics in a future edition of Live in Italy Magazine. By fostering awareness through partnerships, the magazine aims to spotlight authentic Italian experiences blending innovation with sustainability.
Discover More
For those interested in exploring Rossinavi’s innovative designs and sustainable approach to luxury yachting, visit their official website at www.rossinavi.it. Future editions of Design Miami promise more groundbreaking collaborations reflecting Italian craftsmanship and forward-thinking design.
Design Miami will return from December 4 to 8, 2025, continuing to serve as a platform for visionary ideas and creative excellence.
This article is part of Live in Italy Magazine’s January Art+Design issue. The author attended the seminar during Art Basel Miami Beach and Miami Art Week 2024. To learn more about conscious luxury and upcoming events, stay tuned for a future feature.
All photos by Adriana Samanez.
