- Events and Regattas
Grand Soleil Yachts Debuts the 80 Plus Flagship at the Genoa Boat Show
Establishing the Plus Philosophy
Italian builder Grand Soleil Yachts is pushing its production limits with the introduction of its new flagship. Making its premiere in Genoa, the Grand Soleil 80 Plus operates as a completely bespoke project, engineered directly alongside the client’s specifications. The shipyard frames the vessel not just as a flagship, but as the apex of its “Plus philosophy.” Construction takes place entirely in-house at the Fano facility, allowing the builder to maintain absolute control over the infusion lamination process, which utilizes premium resins and heavy carbon reinforcements.
Naval Architecture and Hull Dynamics
Executing a true Blue Water cruiser requires a hull capable of sustained offshore pacing. Naval architect Matteo Polli designed the 26.2-metre waterlines to balance ocean-going safety with the responsive performance characteristic of the brand. The hull utilizes sharp bow sections engineered for a soft entry and dry sailing, progressively widening toward the stern to increase form stability. The GS 80 Plus features a critical twin-rudder configuration, guaranteeing absolute steering control and immediate responsiveness even under heavy heel angles. To maximize access to shallow anchorages, owners can option the vessel with a highly functional telescopic keel.
Ergonomic Deck Architecture
Managing an 80-foot sailing yacht requires strict separation between social zones and operational hardware. Nauta Design curated the deck layout, isolating the central guest cockpit from the primary aft manoeuvring area. This specific configuration, standard on large ocean yachts, ensures the crew can manage the sails with maximum efficiency while guests remain protected. The design integrates all lines directly back to the helm stations, enabling simplified management even with a reduced crew. Innovative “wing islands” flank the helm stations, providing perfect visibility over the headsails for operators.
The Raised Saloon Concept
Interior volume is paramount on vessels designated for extended offshore transits. Nauta Design integrated an elegant “raised saloon” concept into the heart of the yacht. This architectural choice utilizes 270-degree panoramic windows to flood the living space with natural light. Crucially, raising the sole creates a massive technical compartment beneath the saloon. This specific void houses the primary systems, heavy tanks, and advanced equipment, ensuring total self-sufficiency while guaranteeing absolute silence across the primary living areas above.
Bespoke Interior Configurations
The internal layout of the GS 80 Plus remains highly adaptable. The primary unit features a four-guest-cabin configuration alongside two dedicated crew cabins. The forward owner’s suite operates as a private sanctuary, while the aft crew area includes a professional galley and independent access to ensure absolute privacy for the owner. From the initial wood selection to the final upholstery, the Fano atelier works directly with the client to translate their specific vision onto the 80-foot platform.
