Launched in 2002 by Aldo Tomasina and Alessandro Novella, the Toy Marine brand has carved out a niche market in the sector of motorboats between 36 and 72 feet, combining classic style with innovation and where every detail is designed to blend tradition and modernity. The lines are reminiscent of American-inspired lobster boats, capturing their timeless charm. These models are designed for cruising, but their versatile nature makes them ideal as tenders and chase boats for large yachts.
The latest creation, the Toy 39 with outboard engines, is rapidly “sailing” to conquer new markets, enjoying success linked to the expansion of the superyacht sector, a phenomenon that is redefining the expectations of customers looking for increasingly high-performance and comfortable boats. Aldo Tomasina tells us more.
“Tenders are service boats and can be of various types: once upon a time, the most common were small inflatable boats that were stored on board the boats.
Now chase boats are increasingly popular, such as the Wallytender, designed and built specifically to follow the mother ship, consistent in design and personality. The Toy 39 FB fits into this category. It is the evolution of the 36, of which we have already produced more than fifty units. Compared to the Toy 36, we have modified the stern, where the outboards are now installed, to match the aesthetics of the rest of the boat.
The choice of outboard motors proved to be strategic, considering that, in addition to the United States, we have also expanded our presence in Australia and the Caribbean, where the market has shown a strong appreciation for this version. The very positive response eliminated initial doubts about the possibility that the classic Toy line would be compromised by this configuration.
What are the features that make it suitable as a support boat for large yachts?
“The Toy 39 FB is the result of a collaboration between Nauta Design (interiors and exteriors) and Hydrotec (hull). With a length of around 12 metres, it has excellent seagoing and safety qualities thanks to its deep V-shaped hull, which ensures stability even in rough seas and a constant trim at all speeds. Comfort on board is guaranteed by the enclosed dinette where guests, who are transferring ashore or want to move between bays and harbours, are protected from both the sun and bad weather. Behind the wheelhouse, the retractable galley is complete with sink, refrigerator, freezer and two-burner induction hob.
In general, a strong point is the quality of the materials and the study of all functional aspects to achieve a high level of comfort while maintaining a balanced and harmonious design. The result is a refined aesthetic that can also be appreciated below deck in the spacious owner’s cabin with two-metre-long V-shaped beds and in the bathroom with shower. Below deck, there is also a sitting area with a comfortable sofa that can be converted into another double bed or used as a private area for quiet moments. All these features make it the ideal tender for super yachts.
What are the main differences between the Toy 39 FB and the Toy 36 in terms of cockpit functionality?
“The cockpit is a natural extension of the dinette and features two large sunbathing areas. In the Toy 36, this space conceals the inboard engines, while in the Toy 39 FB it can be used more versatilely, for example as a large storage area or fitted out with a sofa and coffee table.
The outboard motor also provides greater horizontal thrust, which has a positive effect on the overall trim of the boat.”
Speaking of engines, which brands have you chosen?
“While we fit two 320 (370) hp Yanmar engines on the Toy 36, for the Toy 39 FB we rely on two 300 (350) hp Mercury Verado engines, which combine comfort, performance, and optimised emissions and fuel consumption. If customers prefer other options, we can look into the necessary technical modifications. In the larger models, the Toy 51 and Toy 72, we use Volvo IPS, a proven, safe and reliable choice.‘
E What about customisation?
’We have options to meet the owner’s needs and tastes: from the colours of the hull to the cushions and all the details that allow you to maintain the family feeling of the main boat.”
How important is the owner’s opinion in the final choice?
“For large yachts, the captain has greater autonomy over technical and functional aspects, but the final decision is always the result of close collaboration with the owner. Toy customers are technically knowledgeable and aesthetically demanding, they love sailing and can choose a Toy either as a tender or as a cruising boat. We create exclusive products for customers who are not limited to evaluating functionality, but also appreciate elegant aesthetics. They are often present at the shipyard to follow the construction phases.”
Do you have plans to expand in terms of model size?
“Growing in size would mean distorting the “lobster” style of our boats, so we are moving cautiously. Today, our range includes the Toy 36, also in a Fly version, the 39 FB and the 51 in both traditional and Fly versions, and the 72. The Toy 51 is a larger boat because it has two cabins with dedicated bathrooms and the possibility of having accommodation for the skipper. As for the Toy 72, we are working on a double layout version with the possibility of having a full-beam owner’s cabin in the centre of the boat and a large, comfortable tender garage for hauling and launching.”
What is Toy Marine’s approach to sustainability?
“Attention to the environment is fundamental: for us, it is a real concern.
Today, our customers are increasingly oriented towards choices that reflect their focus on sustainability. For our part, in the product development process, we pay particular attention to the use of recyclable and durable materials. We use innovative paints that absorb less heat, contributing to a reduction in the use of air conditioning with lower energy consumption. In addition, we install the latest generation of engines and generators, designed to ensure efficiency and reduce emissions.”
Marta Gasparini
