Ferrari Adds Azimut As Technical Partner for 'Hypersail' Project
Ferrari’s intense Hypersail project has entered a new phase with the launch of an operational base in Livorno, Italy, and the addition of Azimut Yachts as a technical partner.
The partnership will see Azimut develop a customized Fly 72 model from its existing portfolio to serve as a tow and support vessel for Hypersail during its flight testing and sea trials. The new operational base, located within Azimut Yachts’ facilities in Livorno, will be the headquarters for the project’s onshore and offshore activities.
The 100-foot Hypersail is a foiling ocean-racing monohull developed by Ferrari as an R&D project. The yacht was designed by French naval architect Guillaume Verdier and is intended to fly on three points of contact using T-shaped foils and lifting surfaces incorporated into the keel and rudder.
Once completed, it will be the world's largest hydrofoiling monohull and the first to achieve 100% energy self-sufficiency.
“We are bringing into existence a unique boat that will fly across the oceans, representing a real opportunity for innovation in both the nautical and automotive worlds," said John Elkan, Chairman of Ferrari.
Ferrari first unveiled Hypersail in June 2025, describing it as the company’s entry into the world of sailing and serving as a platform for technology transfer between its automotive and nautical engineering programs. The project was initially led by Italian ocean sailor Giovanni Soldini.
Hypersail is designed to fly stabilized by three contact points—a canting keel, a rudder-mounted foil, and one of two interchangeable lateral foils. The T-foils with flaps, and the rudder with elevator, will resemble the foil designs of current America’s Cup AC75 yachts. The addition of a bulbous canting keel with an elevator is a signature concept of naval architect Verdier.
Meanwhile, the new Livorno facility will provide access not only to Azimut’s vast naval expertise but also to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The new building will house offices for the project team, engineers and shore crew, along with fitness facilities and laboratories for hydraulic, electrical and mechanical systems. The site will also include 3D-printing capabilities and serve as a meeting point for project partners, stakeholders, and guests.
“Having such a strategically located facility on the Tyrrhenian Sea gives us the ideal conditions to further accelerate the innovation process," said Enrico Voltolini, Project Leader of Ferrari Hypersail.
The facility was designed by Ferrari’s Design Studio under Chief Design Officer Flavio Manzoni. Its design incorporates the Hypersail project’s visual cues, including the Grigio Hypersail and Giallo Fly colours, while technical representations of the yacht appear on the building.
As part of the new partnership, Azimut’s technical and R&D departments will build a customized version of its Fly 72 model specifically for the Hypersail program.
The vessel will be modified to provide the performance required to tow the Hypersail prototype during testing. According to both companies, the tow boat is capable of propelling the prototype at up to 30 knots when Hypersail will operate without its mast and sails.
Extensive use of carbon fibre will reduce the Fly 72’s weight by six tonnes (12,000 lbs / 5443 kg), while its propulsion system will be upgraded to 4,000 horsepower. The power output is twice that of the standard model.
A specialized tow post will also be incorporated into the Fly 72’s hull. The custom-reinforced post is designed to withstand the static and dynamic loads generated while towing Hypersail.
“We are the only brand in the industry with an independent R&D department focused exclusively on developing solutions that don’t yet exist on the market. It’s a choice driven by an insatiable hunger for progress, the same progress that has resulted in our joining forces with the visionary Ferrari Hypersail project. We are proud to be part of this challenging endeavour that generates new knowledge and inspiration for the yachting world," said Andrea Antichi, General Manager of Azimut Yachts.
The Fly 72’s role will evolve as the Hypersail program progresses. During the initial flight-testing phase, it will tow and support the prototype. Later, it will provide assistance and monitoring during sea trials and serve as a hospitality boat for the project.
The boat will also be configured to support the Hypersail team. Azimut says it will accommodate crew members and provide VIP hospitality during events.
“Hypersail is a new challenge that pushes us to go beyond our boundaries and expand our technological horizons. At the same time, it perfectly aligns with Ferrari’s tradition, drawing inspiration from our Hypercar, three-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Designing a yacht for offshore racing is perhaps the ultimate expression of endurance,” said Ferrari Chairman John Elkann.
You can watch the development of the Hypersail project in the video series below:
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