Grand Soleil Blue: Blue, for greener future

by Cantiere del Pardo 22 Jan 15:12 UTC 20-28 January 2024

The Grand Soleil Blue project is a 10 meter sailing boat, a true jewel born from the belief that the initial stride towards sustainability is grounded in quality, ensuring the longevity of the product.

An embodiment of creative collaboration between nautical experts such as Matteo Polli (Naval Architecture) and Nauta Design (Exterior Design, Interior Design and G.A.) and pioneers in sustainable materials like NL Comp, this yacht represents a new chapter in the history of boating where sustainability, efficiency and design come together to create a "bluer" future at sea.

This principle has been the guiding force shaping every facet of the design process. The outcome is a remarkably innovative and stylish weekender, capable of hosting up to four guests overnight, boasting both zero environmental impact during sailing and complete recyclability at the culmination of its life cycle.

Grand Soleil Blue - photo © Cantiere del Pardo

How this has been achieved? By pursing several groundbreaking design and construction methodologies:

Sustainable construction: The GS Blue marks a turning point in boat construction by employing thermoplastic resin, a choice that addresses one of the most significant problems in the marine sector: end-of-life recycling. Traditionally, composite boats have been built using thermosetting resins, which are very difficult if not impossible to recycle. Thermoplastic resin, on the other hand, allows for easier separation of the resin and glass or carbon fibres for re-use or eco-responsible disposal.
Design for disassembly: A smart design approach allows easy separation of boat accessories and components, similar to end-of-life practices in the automotive industry. This critical process ensures that every part of the GS Blue can be effectively disassembled and recycled, minimizing environmental impact.
Electric propulsion: The GS Blue will feature a lithium battery bank and electric propulsion for zero-emission navigation, contributing to a more sustainable future by reducing emissions.
Solar panels: The installation of solar panels provides renewable energy autonomy by recharging the battery bank feeding the electric motor. The GS Blue will have an impressive autonomy, with the standard battery pack enabling a range of 30 nautical miles at approximately 5 knots, translating to 6 hours of continuous engine operation or 12 hours with the dual battery pack.
Thermoplastic sails: Aligning with the project's sustainable philosophy, the sails are crafted from thermoplastic materials, underscoring the commitment to minimizing environmental impact.
Hydrogeneration: During sailing, the GS Blue skillfully recharging its batteries as the propeller spins in response to the water flow generated by the boat's speed.

Grand Soleil Blue - photo © Cantiere del Pardo

The world premiere of the first GS Blue is slated for the 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival, heralding a new era in sailing where innovation meets sustainability on the open seas. The project is co-financed by the Emilia-Romagna region as part of the PR-ERDF 2021/2027 program - Action 1.1.1 - Call for experimental research and development projects.