Nestled in the picturesque region of Lake Como, Italy, Cantiere Nautico Lillia has forged a distinguished reputation as a specialized boat builder, particularly renowned for its contribution to the highly competitive Star class. With a history rooted in craftsmanship and an unwavering dedication to performance, Lillia has become synonymous with precision and success in the racing world.
The genesis of Cantiere Nautico Lillia is intertwined with the vision of Gianni Lillia, who initially founded the shipyard in Pianello del Lario. However, it was his brother, Meco Lillia, who significantly shaped the company's trajectory, taking over the helm in 1981 following Gianni's passing. Meco Lillia possessed a keen intuition, recognizing the immense potential of the Star class. His pivotal move was acquiring a Star class boat from CONI (the Italian National Olympic Committee) and meticulously creating a mold from it, laying the groundwork for Lillia's future dominance in this demanding one-design class. This strategic shift marked the true beginning of Lillia's focused expertise in Star class construction.
History and Evolution
From its foundational years, Cantiere Nautico Lillia demonstrated an adaptive approach to boat building. While early Lillia boats, including some Star models, were crafted from traditional materials like cedar wood, the shipyard quickly embraced more advanced construction techniques. A significant milestone arrived with the introduction of their 1984 Star model, which showcased "cutting-edge technology" in its construction. This transition saw the adoption of fiberglass and other modern methodologies, allowing Lillia to produce competitive racing yachts that met the evolving demands of the Star class. The shipyard has continued its operations, with recent reports indicating its ongoing presence in the marine industry.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Cantiere Nautico Lillia's reputation in the sailing world is unequivocally tied to its specialization in the Star class, an Olympic class known for its strict one-design rules and high-performance demands. The builder is revered for producing Star boats that are not only competitive but also meticulously crafted. This dedication to performance and precision has cemented their status among elite Star class sailors.
While the Star class design originated with Francis Sweisguth, Lillia has collaborated with notable naval architects and designers to refine and produce their models. These collaborations include Joubert Nivelt Design from France, and also involve the historical influence of designers like William F. Crosby. Lillia's commitment lies in combining traditional craftsmanship with modern advancements to create boats that consistently perform at the highest level.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Undoubtedly, the most significant and successful models in Cantiere Nautico Lillia's history are its Star class boats. These highly competitive racing yachts have been a staple on regatta courses worldwide, contributing to countless victories and solidifying the brand's legacy in high-performance sailing. The 1984 Star model, in particular, stands out as a testament to their innovative approach and commitment to pushing the boundaries of class rules through advanced construction.
Beyond the Star class, Lillia also ventured into other sailboat segments. Notable among these is the "Fun 23," a model built in 1982, demonstrating the shipyard's capacity to produce boats beyond their primary specialization. Additionally, Lillia has produced Dinghy class boats, further showcasing their versatility in the racing dinghy market. While specific production numbers are not widely publicized, the sheer number of Lillia Stars seen on racecourses globally speaks volumes about their impact and success within the class.
The Builder Today
Cantiere Nautico Lillia continues its operations from its base in Pianello del Lario, Italy, maintaining its dedicated website (lillia.it) as a point of contact for enthusiasts and potential clients. The company faced and overcame challenges, with reports of the shipyard reopening after legal proceedings, underscoring its resilience and commitment to the marine industry. Today, Lillia boats, particularly their Star class offerings, continue to appeal to serious racing sailors who demand exceptional build quality, precise handling, and a competitive edge. The ownership experience is characterized by a strong connection to the racing community and a shared appreciation for the heritage and performance of a Lillia-built yacht.