Italian shipyards: What’s new in the new build market

Azimut

Founded by Paolo Vitelli in 1969, Azimut Yachts is renowned for its forward-thinking approach, producing innovative yachts that blend elegant Italian styling with cutting-edge technology and performance. With a wide-ranging portfolio of sleek, contemporary vessels, Azimut serves dynamic owners looking for speed, lifestyle, and comfort on the water. The brand is also a pioneer in sustainability, with an expanding line of hybrid and low-emission models.

Benetti

One of the most established names in the superyacht industry, Benetti is renowned for building highly customised yachts that combine Italian craftsmanship with advanced engineering. With a wide range of semi-custom platforms available to customise, the yard is a popular choice for owners seeking individuality, comfort and long-range cruising capabilities.

'Benetti has evolved into an increasingly capable yard, with major investment sharpening its build process, supply chain and working environment to deliver excellent quality at scale. The transformed Livorno yard is clean, disciplined and purposeful, while its product lines now form a distinctive, beautifully detailed family of yachts. Benetti deserves real credit for combining their Italian flair with the care and attention needed to stay at the top of this demanding industry.' Rory Boyle, Partner – Head of New Build Sales, Naval Architect

Sanlorenzo

Sanlorenzo has built a reputation for elegant, contemporary yachts with a strong emphasis on bespoke design. Every yacht is tailored to the owner's preferences, with flexible layouts, refined interiors and a focus on understated luxury. The brand appeals to owners who value exclusivity and personalisation.

Riva

An iconic Italian shipyard, RIVA is celebrated for its timeless styling and rich heritage. While famous for its classically styled sub 40m yachts, the brand has now expanded into offering yachts over 50m that blend distinctive design with modern technology. Riva yachts are often chosen by owners who appreciate tradition, prestige and exceptional attention to detail.

Baglietto

Baglietto is recognised for its expertise in aluminium yacht construction and its ability to deliver highly customised superyachts. The shipyard combines sleek, contemporary exterior styling with strong performance and innovative design solutions. With a heritage spanning more than 170 years, Baglietto continues to balance Italian craftsmanship and naval engineering excellence, creating yachts that are both distinctive and highly capable at sea.

Next Yacht Group

Next Yacht Group brings together two distinctive brands – AB Yachts and Maiora – that each offer a unique approach to luxury yachting. AB Yachts specialises in high-performance vessels designed for speed, efficiency and comfort, renowned for their waterjet propulsion systems, impressive top speeds, and a seamless blend of sporty handling with refined on board living. In contrast, Maiora focuses on spacious, family-friendly yachts with practical layouts and a relaxed on board atmosphere, delivering comfortable living spaces, robust build quality, and versatile designs ideally suited for extended cruising.

'Next Yacht Group stands out for its clear ambition. With Maiora and AB Yachts under one umbrella, and visible investment behind both, the group is building momentum quickly and bringing a fresh sense of energy, style and direction to the Italian market. They look increasingly well positioned to become a major player in the sector in the years ahead.' Skye McCulloch, New Build Sales Operations Manager

Overmarine

Synonymous with performance, style and innovation, Overmarine has earned a strong following for its sleek, sporty yachts that combine striking design with impressive speed and comfort. In recent years, the shipyard has expanded its offering to include long-range models, broadening its appeal to owners seeking both performance and cruising capability.