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Cantiere del Pardo's Grand Soleil Plus 65 Performance is one of the most customizable yachts on the market. While the yacht's sporty looks may be attractive at first glance, it's the technical, architectural and environmental choices that make it so interesting. Here are five points to help you understand the issues raised by this model.
Custom-built and owner-involved: how much customization is possible on a 21m yacht?
The Grand Soleil 65 Performance is part of the Italian shipyard's "Plus" line, which groups together yachts over sixty feet in length. This segment offers individualized support for the owner, involved from the design phase onwards. The deck layout, interior fittings and choice of equipment can be adapted to suit specific needs, whether for ocean cruising, regattas or extended life on board.
The process is based on a dialogue between the shipowner and a group of architects and designers. The entire project is carried out in-house, from the hull mold to the furnishings. This approach implies specific deadlines and costs, but guarantees consistency, manufacturing quality and comfort on board.
Optimized hull and retracted sail plan: how the GS 65 Performance gains in balance and performance?
Matteo Polli's firm has designed a pronounced V-shaped hull at the bow, in line with the Grand Soleil Plus 72. The aim is to reduce the wetted surface, stabilize the boat when heeled and improve glide in light airs. To optimize performance under sail, the mast has been moved back and the fore-triangle enlarged, providing a better distribution of forces and reducing the righting moment.
The sail plan is designed to maintain a low center of thrust and manage reefs without unbalancing the helm. The rig accepts a wide range of sails: standard self-tacking (105 m²), battened mainsail (154 m²), code 0 (210 m²), gennaker (415 m²). The boat can be sailed with a small crew, or even double-handed.
Eco-responsible construction: what materials and processes are needed to limit the environmental impact of superyachts?
The site's approach is based on a selection of low-impact materials: linen fibers, low-emission resins and solvent-free glues. The deck is lined with teak from sustainably managed forests. Varnishes are water-based, and the yacht is fitted with solar panels to power the on-board systems.
This choice of materials does not exclude performance. Vinylester resin infusion in unidirectional carbon reinforcements ensures rigidity and lightness. The boat's longitudinal and transverse structure is optimized to limit deformation during long-distance sailing.
What draught options are available for sailing anywhere with a yacht over 20 m?
The Grand Soleil 65 Performance is available with three keel types: standard (3.50 m), reduced (3.00 m) and telescopic (2.50 to 4.00 m). The telescopic version makes it possible to reach shallow anchorages while maintaining high upwind performance when the keel is lowered.
This system offers an interesting alternative for sailors who combine coastal and transoceanic cruising. A single, well-sized rudder facilitates manoeuvring both under sail and under engine. The keel's inverted-T geometry provides efficient hydrodynamic lift without weighing down the structure.
Lowered interior space: what are the consequences for on-board circulation and ergonomics?
Nauta Design has designed an interior layout that departs from the usual layout. The saloon has been lowered to the level of the bow and stern cabins, creating a homogeneous whole with no steps. This layout improves fluidity of movement, while maintaining comfortable headroom.
The interior style combines light wood, matt finishes and indirect lighting. The owner can choose materials from a limited but qualitative palette. Storage volumes, berth dimensions and equipment layout are inspired by superyacht standards, with a view to long-distance cruising.
The Grand Soleil 65 Performance combines a sporty approach with on-board comfort, in an architecture designed to sail fast, far and long.
