After the first two parts, here’s the third article about the Custom Line Navetta 38. (Here’s the first part and here’s the second part).
Although they are not visible, they are essential. Behind the Custom Line Navetta 38 lies a universe of engineering solutions that have made this model unique in the range. ‘I’d like to start with an anecdote’, says Pier Francesco Boschi, Project Manager. ’Some time ago I read the biography of Steve Jobs and what struck me most was his obsession with aesthetic perfection, not only for the visible parts, but also for the hidden ones, such as the internal circuits of Apple devices. According to him, the quality of a product had to be reflected in every detail, even the invisible ones,’ concludes Boschi.
The same principle has been applied to the Custom Line Navetta 38, where the global approach has made the technical component crucial to the success of this model and the entire Custom Line range. This is demonstrated not only by the number of awards received, but also by the various launches that have taken place in recent months.
2024 was a significant year for the brand, with 18 yachts launched at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona, including two world premieres: the new Custom Line 50 flagship and the Custom Line Navetta 38. The distinctive factor of the latter was the meticulous design process. The result of a collaboration that, in addition to the contribution of Filippo Salvetti for the exteriors and ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, involved the Product Strategy Department, led by engineer Piero Ferrari, and the Engineering Department of the Ferretti Group.
‘We dedicated many hours to analysing every detail of the systems, such as the piping, to optimise the efficiency of the shipyard during construction. But the most important aspect is that this approach allows the crew to manage the systems more easily and effectively, even during maintenance,’ continues Boschi. It’s easy to think that this model is just a stretched version of the previous Custom Line Navetta 37, but this is not the case. On the contrary, it is a completely new ship from bow to stern. Even just one metre more has a significant impact on the volume. The figures confirm it: the Custom Line Navetta 38 has a gross tonnage of 299 GT compared to 275 GT for the Custom Line Navetta 37, with a significant impact on the geometry.
‘The biggest challenge’, continues Boschi, ‘was to recreate on this unit the on-board experience typical of larger ships. For this reason we focused on optimising space and the perception of the environment’. Once on board, what is most striking is the sense of openness. The same sensations can be perceived along the external side passages, which are wider and similar to those of larger yachts. The use of steel also conveys an impression of strength and solidity, with details designed to improve ergonomics and safety. ‘We have adopted a new type of steel for the handrails, with a wider section and a rounded shape to offer a more comfortable and secure grip’ reflects Boschi.
There are also numerous innovations in the interior layout. For example, the staircase has been positioned centrally, becoming the hub of the connections between the upper deck and the sleeping area. Another new feature is the clear separation between the crew and guest areas, which are located in two distinct sections. The continuous research work also involved the systems. ‘We have separated the electrical circuits from the hydraulic ones more clearly. In addition, for the wiring we have adopted materials and technologies typical of commercial ships, the same for the pipes, choosing rigid models, although not required by the regulations on pleasure boats’, continues Boschi. The glass surfaces have also been increased, bringing significant advantages. On the Custom Line Navetta 37 the windows were more inclined and lower, while on the Custom Line Navetta 38 they have been inserted in metal frames, reducing the use of fibreglass and increasing the internal volume.
The bridge has been redesigned according to a new design philosophy that will influence the entire future range. ‘It’s a technical space, but it also has to be welcoming for the owner and guests’. The windows are no longer slanted like on the Custom Line Navetta 37, but vertical, increasing the interior space and improving thermal insulation thanks to a special filter, essential for counteracting the heat generated by the electronic instrumentation. This translates into greater energy efficiency. On-board comfort has also been improved with larger stabiliser fins. The same level of attention has been paid to the technical areas: for mooring manoeuvres, the bow winches have a power of 5.5 kW, the anchor chain has a diameter of 16 cm and a weight of 200 kg.
In terms of soundproofing, a floating floor with a metal frame has been installed on the main deck, while the bulkheads are made of P-Wall, an innovative material that is lighter and has better soundproofing properties. This has also improved the construction process. Furthermore, the structure itself contributes to sound absorption thanks to the introduction of metal frames combined with unidirectional carbon fibres.
But the real magic of the Custom Line Navetta 38 lies in the details, even the most hidden ones. Each component, each finish, each design choice has been studied with almost maniacal attention, because that’s where the game of excellence is played. It’s not just about design, comfort or performance, but a philosophy that makes perfection its goal. It’s like an orchestra in which each instrument, even the smallest, plays a fundamental role in achieving the final harmony. And it is precisely in this symphony of engineering and passion that the soul of the Navetta 38 lies: a masterpiece in which nothing is left to chance, because true luxury is hidden in the details.
Matteo Zaccagnino
