Vitruvius Yacht Design opens in Viareggio: Design and Innovation Serving Italian Shipbuilding

Vitruvius Yacht Design, founded by architect Philippe Briand—an esteemed figure recognized for design innovation and a steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability in yacht construction—has recently inaugurated a new office in Viareggio, internationally acknowledged as the capital of Italian yacht building.

Italy has always been a pivotal reference point for the studio: it was here that the first Vitruvius-branded units took shape. Vitruvius, a brand of the Philippe Briand Group—one of the most authoritative in naval architecture and yacht design, headquartered in London with offices in La Rochelle and now Viareggio—is entirely dedicated to motor yacht design.

The debut dates back to 2010 with the launch in La Spezia of the 50-meter Exuma, a pioneering explorer in many respects, which also marked the revival of the historic Picchiotti brand under the Perini Navi group. Since then, the Vitruvius collection has expanded with increasingly ambitious projects: Galileo G (55m) and Grace E (73m), both built by Picchiotti, followed by MY Shinkai (55m) and Najiba (58m), constructed at the Dutch Feadship shipyards.

The most recent addition is the 65-meter MY Alchemy, launched by Rossinavi and recently awarded the prestigious World Superyacht Award 2024. Out of 20 editions of the award, this is the fourth Vitruvius Yacht Design vessel to receive the Motor Yacht of the Year recognition, a significant record. Upcoming notable projects include a 52-meter yacht under construction at Tankoa Yachts and a 50-meter yacht nearing completion at the Turkish shipyard Alia Yachts.

The opening of the Viareggio office underscores the group's intention to strengthen its presence in a country whose shipbuilding industry undeniably dominates the international leisure vessel market, bringing it closer to Italian shipyards with specialized and personalized services. Leading this facility is Michele Baccetti, a designer with a solid background in both sailing and motor yacht design: initially in Rome with Duck Design by Massimo Paperini, followed by experiences at Terence Disdale's English studio, and in Milan with Mario Pedol and Massimo Gino at Nauta Design, culminating in his role at Vitruvius Yacht Design. These experiences have endowed Baccetti with extensive knowledge in designing both composite serial boats and, notably, semi and full custom metal superyachts.

PressMare: Why did Vitruvius Yacht Design decide to open an office in Italy, specifically in Viareggio?

Michele Baccetti: Opening in Viareggio was a natural choice, given the city's centrality in the nautical sector. Philippe Briand has always appreciated the creativity and competence of Italian professionals, collaborating with them for years. Being present in Italy allows us to offer highly dedicated services and strengthen relationships with local shipyards, facilitating direct and constant contact with our clients. Moreover, our Viareggio office is conceived as a flexible hub hosting a fixed team, which can expand through an international network of freelancers and specialized professionals.

PM: What specific services do you offer from the new Viareggio office?

MB: Vitruvius Yacht Design covers the entire design cycle, from the initial naval project conception, guiding the owner and shipyard through to final realization, including the possibility of offering a complete package for interior design. Additionally, we provide design services for shipyards, particularly the ability to create bespoke designs for builders, working on their specific platforms. In such cases, we collaborate with technical offices to assist in developing the design of their specific product, without necessarily working on a Vitruvius-branded project. This is an activity we are already undertaking with some brands, yielding significant satisfaction. It's stimulating to engage with established design platforms and packages, intervening respectfully with the original concept and aiding the builder in necessary improvements and design development phases.

More broadly, we observe that the Vitruvius name today is associated not only with specific design features but also, and above all, with a high standard of design quality. This is a result achieved over the years and recognized by our clients.

PM: This brings your experience into play...

MB: Philippe invited me to collaborate on the Vitruvius Yacht Design project also for this reason, thanks to my specific experiences in designing and realizing onboard environments. We can oversee every detail, from material selection to finishes, up to the choice of furnishings and accessories. We are structured to manage both complex custom projects for large motor yachts and more serial projects.

PM: Serial production and sailing?

MB: Sailing remains the core business of the group's other division, Briand Yacht Design, operating from the La Rochelle headquarters. Naturally, the two companies communicate; we often hold meetings where information and expertise are continuously exchanged regarding the market, ongoing actions, and technical aspects, ensuring everyone is consistently aligned on solutions and technologies under research.

We certainly pay close attention to serial production boats, which constitute an important part of the parent company's activities, always with an approach oriented towards innovation and sustainability. If this leads to establishing relationships with Italian shipyards, we certainly do not shy away. On the contrary, we aim to make our comprehensive experience in this specific field available.Pressmare

PM: Are you already engaged in significant collaborations with Italian shipyards?

MB: Yes, we are working on very interesting projects with Rossinavi and Tankoa, and we are also in discussions with several other important companies, both Italian and international. Recently, we developed a specific project for the American market, in collaboration with a renowned international broker, which required very particular features to meet the specific tastes of that clientele. We are also collaborating with Italian shipyards eager to experiment with new stylistic and technological solutions, such as the application of composite materials and advanced use of metals.

PM: What role do innovation and sustainability play in your projects?

MB: Innovation and sustainability are two pillars of our work. Currently, we are working on innovative propulsion projects, such as systems based on methanol use, which we believe will be fully applicable by 2028. We are aware of infrastructural challenges in distributing new fuels, but anticipating these technological developments is crucial to be ready when the market matures.

PM: How do you perceive owners' sensitivity towards these new "green" technologies?

MB: Sensitivity towards sustainable solutions varies greatly depending on the type of vessel and owner. In the full-custom segment, owners are certainly more inclined to adopt innovative technologies, aware that this also represents added value in terms of image and environmental responsibility. Conversely, in serial production boating, economic aspects still play a decisive role in buyers' choices, often limiting the adoption of more advanced technologies. However, we observe a gradual change in this sector as well, driven mainly by growing interest in hybrid and less environmentally impactful solutions.

PM: Speaking of style and design, in which direction is the market moving according to Vitruvius?

MB: We are witnessing a growing demand for well-designed, multifunctional outdoor spaces oriented towards a new onboard lifestyle concept. Vitruvius has always interpreted these trends with a recognizable and distinctive design, striving to harmonize aesthetics, practicality, and comfort. Even in interiors, we focus on solutions consistent and integrated with the overall project. We strongly believe in flexible platforms, adaptable to different uses over time, especially in outdoor living areas. We envision a future where yachts will increasingly focus on open, versatile spaces adaptable to the diverse needs of modern owners.

PM: What is Vitruvius Yacht Design's approach to the future challenges of the Italian and international nautical market?

MB: Flexible. Our approach is to position ourselves as strategic partners for shipyards and owners, anticipating technological and stylistic trends. The Viareggio team, integrated with support from our French and British offices, possesses all the necessary skills to tackle the challenges of an evolving market, always ensuring high standards of quality and innovation.yachtbuyer.com+36vitruviusyachts.com+36CharterWorld.com+36

In summary, we believe that innovation must be practical and concrete, offering solutions that genuinely enhance the onboard living experience

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