Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise: Defining the Bluewater Flagship
The Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise arrives as the new flagship of the Plus line, specifically engineered for yachts exceeding 60 feet. At 26.20 meters, this project synthesizes Cantiere del Pardo’s build expertise with a collaborative design approach, blending bluewater capability with the performance heritage essential to the Grand Soleil identity.
The project unites a premier team: naval architect Matteo Polli and the design studio Nauta, responsible for exterior styling and interior layout.
The hull, built via vacuum infused epoxy sandwich construction with extensive carbon fiber reinforcement, features narrow bow sections for smooth entry and wide aft sections for interior volume.
Performance oriented versatility defines the sailing setup. A carbon rig, V boom, and rod rigging provide rigidity and ease of handling. The model offers twin rudders paired with a telescopic keel (2.90m to 4.40m), ensuring precise control and access to shallower anchorages. Alternatively, a fixed keel, single rudder configuration is available.
Innovation extends to the yacht’s operational heart. A centralized hydraulic circuit manages all deck functions winches, mast, and keel minimizing weight and cleaning the deck layout.
Energy management is handled by a Torqeedo hybrid platform; twin 40 kWh battery packs provide propulsion and hotel services, supplemented by two 45 kW generators for extended autonomy.
The signature raised coachroof facilitates 270 degree panoramic views and creates a technical void beneath the saloon sole, housing next generation systems while maximizing living space.
Nauta’s interior layout prioritizes the separation of guest and crew zones. Owners may choose between three or four guest cabins, complemented by two crew cabins with dedicated access. The master suite, positioned forward, features a walk around bed and forward facing en suite.
Onboard Bianca II, the first hull, the aesthetic focuses on warm oak joinery and high quality textile bulkhead coverings, reflecting a contemporary, refined atmosphere tailored to long range cruising.
Photos Gianluca Napthalina Camporesi