In Ancona, the Fast Naan was launched, the first example of the ISA Viper 130 and the forerunner of a range through which ISA Yachts tackles the concept of high performance with a clear vision: to combine speed with generous space and a high level of on-board comfort.
The new 38.8-metre yacht from the Palumbo Superyachts brand is, in fact, built around two core principles that the design seeks to harmonise. On the one hand, there is a top speed of 33 knots, sleek lines and a GRP construction reinforced with carbon fibre; on the other, a layout that maximises opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, particularly through a well-organised sequence of spaces distributed across the stern, bow and sun deck.
Launched on 25 August in the presence of the owners, their guests and the shipyard’s crew, Fast Naan will make its international debut at the 2026 Cannes Yachting Festival, before heading to the Monaco Yacht Show.
ISA Viper 130, a profile designed for speed
The dynamic character of the ISA Viper 130 is evident from its profile alone. The exterior design is the result of a collaboration between ISA Yachts and Fulvio De Simoni, whilst De Simoni himself is responsible for the interiors. The naval architecture was developed by the shipyard in collaboration with Studio Ing. Arnaboldi. The taut surfaces and bold lines create a silhouette that makes no attempt to conceal the yacht’s sporty nature. It is a stylistic choice underpinned by a technical platform that is equally performance-oriented.
Propulsion is provided by three MAN V12X engines, each delivering 2,200 hp, coupled with two MJP waterjets and a central MJP booster. This configuration enables a claimed top speed of 33 knots, whilst the cruising speed stands at 26 knots.
However, it is in the organisation of the spaces that one of the most interesting aspects of the design emerges: performance is not the only element around which the Viper 130’s identity has been built. Speed coexists, in fact, with a layout that gives the outdoor areas a central role.
Three levels to redesign the stern
It is particularly at the stern that this design concept takes shape. Here, the traditional cockpit gives way to a layout spread over three levels, each with a specific function yet visually connected to the others. The first level corresponds to the beach area, situated closest to the water. A transformer serves the dual purpose of a swim ladder and gangway, making this part of the yacht the direct point of contact with the sea.
Two side steps then lead to a second level, where a large sun deck facing aft precedes a lounge furnished with sofas and a coffee table. Further enhancing the sense of space are the two side balconies that can be opened: once extended, they increase the floor area and widen the space transversely, transforming it into a terrace overlooking the water.
Further up is the outdoor dining area, arranged around a table seating ten people. It is here that one of the project’s most flexible features comes into play: the galley and aft bar can either be integrated directly into the dining area or separated from it by a blackout sliding glass panel.
When open, the galley thus becomes part of the guests’ experience and can be used for show cooking or cocktail parties; when closed, it allows the crew to work whilst keeping the service area separate. This is no minor detail, as it reflects the desire to create spaces capable of changing function depending on the time of day and the way the owner chooses to enjoy the yacht.
At the bow, a separate space
The quest for usable space continues along the main deck. The longitudinal passageway towards the bow has been confined to the port side only, a decision which has allowed the designers to increase the interior volumes whilst, at the same time, reimagining the forward area.
Here, there is a swimming pool surrounded by sun decks and sofas, creating a second outdoor area distinct from the stern. Whilst the stern is designed around socialising and proximity to the water, the bow takes on a more intimate and private character. This creates different on-board scenarios without necessarily requiring larger dimensions: a principle that runs through much of the Viper 130’s layout.
Interiors opening out onto the landscape
Once past the on-board bar, you enter the main saloon, where the connection with the outside world is facilitated by large, openable windows. More than just transparent surfaces, they serve to soften the boundary between the saloon and the surrounding environment and bring natural light into the interior.
The space is divided into two distinct lounge areas, avoiding an overly rigid layout whilst maintaining a sense of continuity throughout the space. The bridge is situated at the bow of the main deck. From here, via a staircase on the left, one reaches the lower deck, where the entire accommodation area is located.
The layout comprises five cabins accommodating up to 11 guests. The owner’s cabin features a double bathroom and is flanked by four guest cabins, all with en-suite bathrooms: two double cabins and two twin cabins, one of which is also fitted with a Pullman bed.
The sun deck as a third outdoor space
The focus on outdoor living continues on the sun deck. Protected by a carbon fibre hardtop, the deck is designed as a self-contained space that can accommodate different times of the day. In addition to the second helm station, there is a spacious sunbathing area at the stern, a lounge with sofas and armchairs, a bar and an additional dining table seating ten people. The stern, bow and sun deck thus offer three distinct experiences, united by the aim of making the most of the outdoor spaces whilst on board.
At the same time, the design keeps operational flows separate. Access to the crew quarters is via the galley, minimising interference with guests’ movements. The crew area comprises three cabins with en-suite bathrooms and can accommodate up to six people. Finally, on the starboard side, the side garage accommodates a five-metre tender.
Commissioned by an American owner introduced to the shipyard by Zarpo Yachts, Fast Naan thus brings ISA Yachts’ design concept for the Viper 130 to the water for the first time. The figures highlight its most immediate features, but it is in the organisation of the space that the design reveals its true identity: a fast platform where the sporting aspect coexists with a series of spaces designed to experience the sea from different perspectives.
