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Four Decks of Italian Craftsmanship: Ferretti Group Floats Its Latest Steel Giant
A Shift in the Displacement Paradigm
Italian shipbuilder CRN has introduced its latest custom displacement vessel, the 70-metre Project Thunderball, into the water at the Ferretti Group shipyard in Ancona. The launch marks a critical milestone for the steel and aluminum project, which brings together international design houses to satisfy a highly exacting owner’s brief. With Y.CO managing the construction oversight, the vessel represents a precise balance of heavy maritime capability and refined detailing.
The Sailboat-Inspired Silhouette
The exterior profile stems from the Dutch firm Vripack, which also handled the preliminary naval architecture and general arrangement. Rather than opting for a bulky, towering superstructure, the design team drafted a low profile characterized by an elongated bow and curved bilges. These graceful, sailboat-inspired lines fulfill the owner’s request to avoid the traditional floating palace look, resulting in a vessel that visually respects classic maritime heritage while maintaining the functional volume of a 1,100 GT motor yacht.
Interior Geometry and Light
Inside the four-deck layout, Italian studio Nauta developed an atmosphere based on motion and geometric rhythm. The firm focused heavily on maximizing natural light, utilizing large glazing and leaning mullion structures to offer unobstructed views of the surrounding environment. The 12 guests are accommodated across an owner’s suite and five VIP cabins, with living spaces designed to maintain a consistent aesthetic flow while providing specific zones to display curated artworks.
Energy Storage and Shallow Draft Operations
Mechanically, Project Thunderball operates with twin MAN V12-1213kW engines that deliver a top speed of 15.5 knots and a comfortable cruising speed of 12 knots. To enhance operational efficiency, the yacht integrates an Energy Storage System capable of peak-shaving and silent operation at anchor, which directly contributes to a substantial reduction in overall fuel consumption. Furthermore, the 11-metre beam is paired with a relatively shallow 3.2-metre draught, allowing the captain to navigate tighter coastal waters and anchor closer to shorelines.
The Logistics of the Active Fleet
The vessel serves as a highly capable platform for an active ownership program. Designed to cruise between the Mediterranean, the Bahamas, and Florida, she will act as a primary base for diving, sailing, and spearfishing. To support these activities, the bow is configured to carry two nine-metre tenders alongside an extensive inventory of surfboards, kiteboards, and paddleboards. Following final outfitting and sea trials, delivery is scheduled for summer 2026, adding a distinctly refined and technologically advanced asset to the global fleet.
