Italian shipyard Rossinavi is pushing the boundaries of yacht design with its latest creation, the Solsea catamaran. Designed by renowned industrial designer Yves Béhar, this innovative vessel offers a glimpse into the future of luxury yachting. Unveiled at this year’s Design Miami, the Solsea concept features a combination of large solar panels and an onboard AI-monitored battery.
Béhar, an accomplished sailor and surfer, has seamlessly blended his passions with his studio’s commitment to sustainable technology. The design ethos extends to the materials used, featuring durable cork flooring provided by Amorin and, fittingly, recycled plastic sourced from the ocean, ensuring that sustainability is at the forefront of this project.
Rossinavi has greatly benefited from Béhar’s unique perspective on naval architecture. Federico Rossi, the Chief Operating Officer of Rossinavi, expressed his admiration, stating, “It’s been an incredible journey to see how Yves Béhar reimagined the naval platform of our hybrid-electric catamaran.” His innovative approach has infused the design with a luxurious and refined style that sets it apart in the maritime world.
The Solsea concept embodies a softer, warmer aesthetic both inside and out. Its advanced battery and solar panel system are ingeniously integrated into the superstructure, with solar panels serving a dual purpose as shading structures on the expansive deck. This thoughtful design allows for an impressive 80% reduction in fuel consumption while cruising, mirroring the efficiency of the Seawolf X.
For leisurely day trips, Solsea is engineered to operate entirely on electric power, with fast charging capabilities that can replenish the batteries in about five hours at a well-equipped marina. This remarkable vessel even has the potential to complete a transatlantic journey using over 80% electric power, showcasing the future of sustainable luxury at sea.
After three years of meticulous development, the new catamaran showcases Rossinavi’s cutting-edge onboard artificial intelligence system, Rossinavi AI. This innovative technology expertly manages the energy distribution among the catamaran’s various systems, batteries, and powertrain. When the vessel is moored and unoccupied, it enters a unique hibernation mode, allowing it to transfer power from its solar panels directly to the quayside.
Inside, designer Béhar and his team have maximized the spaciousness of the 43-meter catamaran, featuring a full-width owner’s cabin that boasts stunning 180-degree views and a private external balcony. The main deck is home to a lounge pool, while the rear sundeck offers a bar and ample seating for relaxation. Béhar expresses his vision, stating, “For me, Solsea is a return to simpler, more respectful ways to enjoy the oceans while integrating the future of efficient propulsion and cutting-edge technologies.”