Silent Yachts history

Silent Yachts was founded in 2016, following a multi-year testing programme that produced the Solarwave 46 — the first ocean-class vessel running engines, air conditioning, and all onboard systems on solar power alone, without a conventional generator. The SY62 became the first solar-powered production yacht to cross the Atlantic in January 2018. The company subsequently restructured; Michael Said became majority shareholder in 2024, with Fabrizio Iarrera — formerly founding CEO of Monte Carlo Yachts — appointed CEO.

Production and facilities

Silent Yachts builds at its facility in Fano, Italy, using a modular construction system introduced in 2024 that enables approximately one yacht per month. Solar arrays are integrated into the superstructure at the design stage rather than retrofitted. Components are sourced from established European suppliers.

Silent Yachts model range

The range covers three models. The SY62 at 18.86 metres is the entry model in two-deck and three-deck configurations; it carries 16.8 kWp of solar and 354 kWh of battery capacity, cruising at 6–7 knots. The SY80 at 23.95 metres is the mid-range model. The 120 Explorer at approximately 37 metres is the flagship for extended ocean passages. All three share solar-electric propulsion with diesel range extender as the common architecture. A new model between the SY62 and SY80 is announced for 2026.

Design and features

Silent Yachts has no direct equivalent among production shipyards: solar-electric ocean catamarans in series production at prices comparable to diesel catamarans of similar size. The economics favour long-distance cruisers — no fuel costs under solar, lower maintenance from fewer drivetrain moving parts, effectively unlimited range in adequate sun. The trade-off is speed: 6 to 7 knots under electric power suits passage-makers rather than performance buyers. The SY62 completed a second Atlantic crossing in 2025.