Italian yard Cantieri di Pisa has lifted the lid on its new line of flybridge models named Akhir. Comprising a 31-metre Akhir 110, 37-metre Akhir 122 and 42-metre Akhir 140, the concept series aims to balance modern features with a traditionally sporty look that draws on the yard's 78-year history.
Cantieri di Pisa has partnered with sports car designer Etienne Salomè to fashion the exterior design for each of the models. Key features include a slanted segment of glazing from hull to superstructure and sculpted gunwales around the bow that contribute to the yacht's aggressive look.
According to the yard, the Akhir line will be made of composite hybrid glass and carbon fibre to improve performance and keep the vessels' weight as low as possible. Each of the models has a good selection of big-boat features, including unfolding sea terraces, generous flybridges and floor-to-ceiling windows on the interior.
Twin Caterpillar C32 2400 hp engines will supply the Akhir 110 with a top speed of 29 knots and an economical cruising range of 900 nautical miles. The Akhir 122 and Akhir 140 will offer various engine configurations offering top speeds between 27 and 30 knots, with a maximum range between 800 and 900 nautical miles.
Fresh from a company-wide rebranding, Cantieri di Pisa's new philosophy places a greater emphasis on improving the efficiency of its motor yachts. More recent R&D efforts have seen the yard evaluate the design of sailing yachts – particularly those from the America's Cup – to learn more about the role of weight distribution in allowing for greater speed and more efficient fuel consumption.
The yard's findings have already been applied to an upcoming project, the 80VELOCE, which promises to innovate upon the performance standard for all future motor yachts. The vessel will be made of 98 per cent carbon fibre and incorporate specialised infusion technology allowing for speeds of over 60 knots.
The 80VELOCE forms part of the yard's Fast Commuter series, which also includes an 80GT model.