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The semi-rigid market continues to grow, with ever more powerful and heavier units. Lomac is taking a different direction with the Turismo 8.5, an 8.50 m model that strikes a balance between port space, performance, autonomy and onboard comfort. This newcomer, designed by Federico Fiorentino, completes a Turismo range launched in 2022 with the Turismo 7.0.
A hull size that remains compatible with everyday use
The 8 to 9-meter semi-rigid segment remains a strategic one for yachtsmen. These units are still relatively easy to use, with a size compatible with many Mediterranean ports and road transport possible after partial deflation of the floats.
The Turismo 8.5 boasts an overall width of 8.50 m and a maximum width of 3.14 m. Once the flanges are deflated, the width drops to 2.50 m. This is of particular interest to owners who winter their boats on dry land, or who wish to limit logistical constraints.
With an advertised empty weight of 1,800 kg, the model remains in a category where the single engine makes economic sense. It's also a response to the rising cost of berths and fuel consumption, two issues that have become central for regular sailors.
Deck organization designed for a day at sea
Lomac's layout is very much geared towards day outings, with a clear central circulation and several relaxation zones.
At the stern, two integrated bathing platforms frame a central companionway to the sea. The cockpit is equipped with a U-shaped bench for eight people. The table can be folded away to transform the area into a sundeck. The cockpit features two separate seats for pilot and co-pilot. Under the seat, the shipyard has integrated a refrigerator, which has become almost indispensable in this category of semi-rigid boats designed for long summer days.
At the front, a second sundeck occupies the forepeak, with storage compartments under the cushions. The center console integrates a volume accessible from the front. Depending on requirements, this space can accommodate a chemical or marine toilet. It can also be used as a changing cabin or a simple hold. The boat is approved for 14 people. In practice, this type of capacity is mainly used for administrative constraints and occasional professional use. For a comfortable cruise, the crew will obviously be smaller.
A hull optimized for short Mediterranean seas
Seaworthiness remains a key factor for this size of semi-rigid boat. Between 8 and 9 meters, boats need to be able to cope with tight chop, while maintaining decent performance with reasonable power.
Lomac announces CFD development work on the Turismo 8.5 hull. These numerical simulations enable the hydrodynamic flows to be analyzed prior to the validation phase under real sailing conditions. The shipyard is seeking to achieve three classic but difficult-to-conciliate objectives: stability at low speed, efficiency at cruising speed and damping in heavy seas.
The design retains the "heavy duty" style already seen on other Turismos, with pronounced freeboards and a rather military silhouette. This type of approach has been popular in the semi-rigid market for several years now, particularly with yachtsmen who use their boats in sustained sailing conditions.
Pennel & Flipo's choice of Hypalon Orca floats is consistent with this positioning. This material retains good resistance to UV rays, aging and high temperatures, an important consideration for boats based all year round in the Mediterranean.
Single or double motorization, a real issue for homeowners
The Turismo 8.5 will be available with a single engine from 250 to 425 hp, or with two engines up to 2 x 200 hp.
The choice between single and twin engines remains an important issue in this segment. A single engine reduces maintenance costs, rear weight and fuel consumption. It also simplifies access to the mechanics. On the other hand, twin engines provide greater redundancy for offshore cruising, and often improve port maneuvering. However, it does significantly increase the overall budget, both in terms of purchase and operation.
Lomac claims speeds in excess of 50 knots in the most powerful configurations. On this type of unit, actual cruising speeds will probably be closer to 25 to 35 knots, depending on sea conditions and the load on board.
Two T-tops are available. The first uses a stainless-steel structure with a soft canvas. The second adopts a rigid polyester construction with aramid and carbon reinforcements to limit the weight in the tops.
A Turismo range targeting several boating profiles
With this model, Lomac continues the gradual structuring of its Turismo range. The Italian shipyard is less interested in multiplying sizes than in positioning each unit for a specific use. The Turismo 7.0 was aimed more at first-time buyers and coastal outings. The new 8.5 takes things up a notch, with greater carrying capacity and more on-board comfort, without falling into the category of semi-rigid boats over 10 meters long, which often require smaller crews, more expensive berths and high maintenance budgets.
The Milanese shipyard, founded in 1960 and still run by the Lo Manto family, today boasts a range of 58 models divided into six series. Distribution is supported by around 70 dealers in some twenty countries.
The official launch of Turismo 8.5 is scheduled for the Genoa Boat Show 2026.
