More than a simple surge of nostalgia, neo-retro design is a cross between tradition and modernity, passion and empiricism. Long associated with the automotive sector, the wave of vintage and luxury nostalgia is also inspiring nautical designers.
In order to design and offer on the market boats with a design similar to those of the 60s and 70s, specialists are rediscovering and modernising the early days of pleasure-boating.
Here is a selection of motorboats and sailing yachts that combine the elegance of the old with the performance of the new on display at the next edition of the Yachting Festival, which will open its doors from 6 to 11 September at the Vieux Port and Port Canto in Cannes:
Grand Banks – GB85
Localisation: Super Yachts Extension l Measurements: LOA 26.58 m, beam 6.75 m l Built in the USA
The GB85 is not only the largest boat built by Grand Banks, but is also synonymous with luxury and elegance. Combining style and efficiency has been made possible by the hydrodynamics of Gb Marine’s exclusive V-Warp technology: the Grand Banks 85 consumes half the fuel of other 85-footers because it needs half the power to achieve the same speeds and performance.
Spirit Yachts – Spirit 72 DH
Localisation: Espace Voile l Measurements: LOA 22 m, beam 4.80 ml Built in the UK
Designed for blue water cruising and occasional racing, the Spirit 72DH is a yacht made to turn heads. With modern fittings, high performance sails and a light displacement for a yacht of her size, the Spirit 72DH is ideal for sailing in style and comfort.
Cantiere Navale Franchini – MIA 63 T-Top
Localisation: Quai Saint-Pierre l Measurements: LOA 19.60 m, beam 5.30 m l Built in Italy
The MIA 63 T-TOP is a boat full of exciting sensations, capable of tying that emotional thread that links the past of Cantiere Navale Franchini to its future, in which feelings are always a common denominator. This sport cruiser is capable of satisfying a wide range of needs: a short run to a secluded beach, a mediumdistance cruise, and always with the maximum level of comfort and the best use of the spaces on board.
Apreamare – Gozzo 45
Localisation: Quai Saint-Pierre l Measurements: LOA 14.70 m, beam 4.70 m l Built in Italy
This year, Apreamare presents the Gozzo 45, an elegant cruiser with a timeless style inspired by the Mediterranean. Designed by Marco Casali, Umberto Tagliavini of Marine Design and Cataldo Aprea, Apreamare’s new boat features many elements offering a unique living environment on board, in full respect of the walkaround philosophy.
Riva – Aquariva Super
Localisation: Jetty l Measurements: LOA 10.07 m, beam 2.8 m l Built in Italy
Heir to the iconic Aquarama, the Aquariva Super retains all the timeless elegance of its predecessor, while offering a touch of contemporary design with its cutting-edge high tech accessories and subtle lines. The new model from the Italian shipyard RIVA offers unparalleled comfort for a cruising experience of sublime originality.
Frauscher – 1017 GT
Localisation: Super Yachts Extension l Measurements: LOA 9.90 m, beam 2.99 m l Built in Austria
The soul of the brand, the 1017 GT offers its users everything they need for a day at sea: style, performance and efficiency. This gentlemen’s racer is distinguished by its teak slats and its vertical planking highlighted along its entire length by a stainless steel half-round Z, the signature of Frauscherboats.
Faro Electric Boat – Faro 5
Localisation: Quai Max Laubeuf l LOA 5 m, beam 2 m l Built in Portugal
With its wooden construction and autonomous charging station powered by solar energy, the Faro 5 is the epitome of neo-retro. Combining noble materials such as cryptomeria wood with technological innovation is the challenge that the Portuguese boatyard set itself. Sailing with elegance and respect for the environment is now possible.
“All of these exceptional boats can be seen at the next edition of the Yachting Festival in Cannes, Europe’s largest inwater show. Nearly 650 boats will be exhibited this year, with more than 140 new products being exhibited as world previews. The Cannes Yachting Festival is an exceptional showcase for the world’s grandest boats, yachts and sailing ships. It allows everyone, whether they are sea lovers, yachting enthusiasts, seasoned visitors or simply curious, to discover a magical universe, all in an idyllic setting, emblematic of the French Riviera.”, concludes Sylvie Ernoult, Director of the Cannes Yachting Festival.
