You might think the green innovations of a luxury yacht lie solely in the engine room, where hybrid propulsion systems and battery packs so often steal the spotlight. While propulsion is among the most influential factors, a yacht’s overall sustainability also hinges on what lies beneath the surface. The coatings that wrap the hull and superstructure can deliver remarkable advantages in performance, protection and efficiency, contributing to reducing fuel consumption, cutting emissions and protecting marine ecosystems.
One company that embodies this vision is Boero YachtCoatings, part of Italy’s historic Gruppo Boero, where technological innovation and a holistic lifecycle approach have been driving progress since 1831.
“Italian excellence is our heritage, and eco-conscious innovation is our way forward, following the company’s sustainability pathway,” says Riccardo Carpanese, marketing director of Gruppo Boero. “Through technology and craftsmanship, we create solutions that deliver performance and protection while promoting respect for people and the environment."
Why paint matters
At first glance, paint might seem purely aesthetic, but in reality, coatings are advanced engineering systems designed to improve performance. A smoother hull reduces hydrodynamic drag, allowing the vessel to move more efficiently through the water, which in turn lowers fuel consumption and, consequently, CO2 emissions. At the same time, the right anti-fouling prevents marine growth, minimising maintenance and reducing the spread of invasive species.
A lifecycle approach
Boero encourages shipyards, captains and owners to think beyond the refit cycle. Each paint layer, from primer to filler to topcoat, influences not only aesthetics but also long-term performance, maintenance needs and environmental impact.
Through an international network spanning more than 15 countries, Boero provides expert specification guidance, technical inspections and after-sales support to ensure every coating performs at its best. The brand’s Assured Superyacht Protection programme integrates warranty, service and technical assistance, offering coverage for up to 36 months (antifouling), 48 months (topcoat) and 60 months (anticorrosive).
Certified Boero Coating Advisors deliver on-site support and training, while the Gruppo Boero Academy, an innovative training hub based at the R&D Headquarters in Italy, ensures continuous knowledge transfer from research to application.
Where innovation meets knowledge
Training and knowledge-sharing are part of Boero’s DNA. Through the Gruppo Boero Academy, the company offers professional courses for applicators, project managers and yacht crews covering everything from cleaning and maintenance procedures to advanced spray techniques, complete coating systems, and product and technology introductions.
This expertise ensures every finish delivers maximum performance, durability, aesthetic quality and environmental benefits. From advanced application techniques to complete coating-cycle management, the academy fosters excellence and continuous improvement, promoting the Group’s Positive Impact values of skill-building, responsibility and environmental awareness.
Leading the conversation
In line with its commitment to sustainability and innovation, Boero YachtCoatings will take part in The Superyacht Forum 2025 and the Superyacht Coating Conference in Amsterdam, where Simone Garofoli, hull formulation manager, will join two technical panels exploring the future of anti-fouling technologies, legislation and lifecycle assessment in sustainable coating development.
The yacht and superyacht industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint, not only from owners but also from regulatory bodies, marinas, charter clients and public opinion. The innovations developed by Boero YachtCoatings demonstrate how attention is now shifting beyond propulsion to include every element of the design, build and maintenance ecosystem.
To discover how Boero YachtCoatings can help you achieve technical excellence with environmental responsibility, contact the team or visit them in Amsterdam at METSTRADE (18–20 November 2025) to explore its range of advanced, eco-engineered yacht coatings.
Sponsored content created for Boero YachtCoatings