Silent Yachts, an Italian boat manufacturer known for its innovative use of solar power, has announced the upcoming debut of its SY80, a cutting-edge solar-electric catamaran. The new model will be launched at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025, scheduled for September 9-14, where it is expected to make waves in the eco-friendly boating world.
Since its founding in 2016, Silent Yachts has been a leader in electric vessels, pioneering the development of solar-powered yachts. The company recently underwent a change in ownership, strengthening its financial position while continuing its commitment to sustainable boating solutions. Silent Yachts remains dedicated to using the highest-quality solar technology to craft vessels that offer eco-conscious cruising without sacrificing luxury or performance.
The company is renowned for creating the world’s first ocean-going production yachts powered entirely by solar energy. This commitment to innovation is central to the brand’s identity, with its slogan emphasizing the harmony between solar power and the natural environment. “Solar power is the perfect energy source for a yacht,” the company states. “It brings us closer to nature’s beauty and power, combining the advantages of sailing and motorboating like never before.”
At 24 meters (80 feet) in length, the SY80 is Silent Yachts’ largest build to date and is poised to redefine expectations for sustainable luxury yachting. This solar-electric catamaran blends advanced engineering with sustainable technology, offering a luxurious and eco-friendly alternative to traditional yachts. Designed by Marco Casali, the vessel features a sleek, modern aesthetic, complemented by an open-plan layout and spacious staterooms designed for any adventure. Signature features, including expansive glazing along the hull and large windows, provide stunning views while maximizing natural light.
Initially announced in 2019 as the company’s flagship model, the SY80 will be available in three customizable configurations: 2-Deck, 3-Deck Open, and 3-Deck Closed. This flexibility allows owners to tailor the yacht’s interior to their personal preferences, offering a range of choices for onboard living and entertainment. While the design is larger and more spacious than previous models, the SY80 retains the same sustainable features that made its predecessors, such as the 60 Series, popular with eco-conscious yacht owners.
The SY80’s generous interior space rivals that of a 35-meter (115-foot) monohull, with the ability to accommodate up to 12 guests across six staterooms. A mix of enclosed and open-air spaces, along with walk-around side decks, creates a seamless connection with the ocean. Its wide stance ensures superior stability and comfort on the water. The yacht’s master suite is offered in various configurations, with options for it to be placed on the main deck or in the lower levels, depending on the owner’s desire for a larger salon.
The 3-Deck Open version, in particular, offers a luxurious 84-square-meter (904-square-foot) ocean sky lounge on the flybridge, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Below deck, ample storage for water toys adds to the yacht’s functionality, making it perfect for recreational activities.
Fabrizio Iarrera, CEO of Silent Yachts, expressed his excitement about the SY80’s upcoming release: “What sets the SY80 apart from other models is its high degree of customization, allowing owners to tailor every deck to their needs and style.”
Sustainability remains at the heart of the SY80’s design. The catamaran’s large array of solar panels, integrated seamlessly into the vessel’s design, provides near-zero-emission propulsion. The SY80 features a peak solar array of 22.4 kWp, storing energy in a 522 kilowatt-hour battery bank, with an optional upgrade to 696 kilowatt-hours. The solar panels come with a 25-year warranty, underscoring the shipyard’s confidence in their long-term reliability.
In terms of performance, the SY80 offers a cruising speed of 7-8 knots and a maximum speed of 12 knots. While specific range figures have yet to be disclosed, previous Silent Yachts models, powered solely by solar energy, have been capable of cruising up to 100 miles (160 km) per day.
The SY80 2-Deck variant will make its official debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025, with sea trials set to commence in the coming weeks. Silent Yachts continues to lead the charge in the eco-friendly yachting sector, proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand on the open water.
