Italian shipyard CRN celebrated the launch of its new 70-meter full-custom superyacht in Ancona, Project Thunderball, a steel and aluminum construction that represents one of the most complex and ambitious collaborations ever tackled by the team.
First announced in 2023, Project Thunderball – known internally as CRN 145 – took shape during 2024, when the hull was transferred to the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard for final outfitting. Delivery is scheduled for summer 2026, after sea trials and completion of the interior.
Project Thunderball: the outer lines
The exterior design bears the signature of Dutch studio Vripack, who also oversaw the preliminary naval architecture and general arrangement. The forms are characterized by a elongated bow and lines “nimble, sailboat-inspired” as described by the project team. The gently curved broadside and deep blue livery with white superstructure and subtle red bootstripe complete a timeless aesthetic.
With a length of 69.7 meters, a beam of 11 meters and a gross tonnage of 1,100 GT, the yacht is spread over four decks and has a relatively shallow draft (3.2 meters), allowing it to get closer to shore than is usual for yachts of this size.
Project Thunderball: the interior
The interior and exterior social spaces were designed by Nauta Design, which worked closely with CRN to define a concept capable of combining functionality and aesthetics in the wake of a strong connection to maritime culture.
According to Mario Pedol, co-founder of Nauta, “several areas have been designed specifically to enhance independent works of art or furniture elements“. The design aims to transcend fashions by combining traditional details and a contemporary language, with selected materials in constant dialogue with the owner.
One of the central themes is the visual continuity between interiors and exteriors, achieved through recurring geometries, harmonized proportions, and optimized use of natural light through large glass surfaces. Pedol explained:
“Nauta has always believed that true luxury on board is achieved through the most direct connection possible with the surrounding environment. We have worked a lot with CRN to optimize structures and technical solutions so as to have better natural light in the intern i”.
The mullion structures of the main deck windows, for example, have been tilted to broaden the perception of light and offer more open views of the sea.
Artificial lighting is likewise taken care of: a fully integrated system, partly hidden and partly decorative, is designed to create intimate atmospheres and enhance forms and materials.
On-board capacity and performance
The yacht can accommodate 12 passengers in a master suite and five VIP cabins, while the crew has 15 berths distributed in nine cabins.
On-board systems have been discreetly integrated, with components concealed or visually adapted so as not to interrupt the cleanliness of surfaces, with the aim of prioritizing functionality and quality of finish.
From a technical point of view, Project Thunderball is equipped with an Energy Storage System that manages energy flows according to operational needs. The system enables functions of peak shaving and the silent navigation at anchor, helping to reduce fuel consumption under certain conditions.
Propulsion is provided by two MAN V12s of 1,213 kW, for a maximum speed of 15.5 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots.
