From the picturesque Ligurian coast, SIBMA Navale Italiana has carved a distinctive niche in the marine industry, renowned for its commitment to classic craftsmanship and innovative use of materials. Founded in 1962, the Italian shipyard, initially known for its pioneering plywood chined craft, has evolved into a esteemed center for both new construction and the meticulous restoration of wooden and vintage yachts.
SIBMA Navale Italiana was established in 1962 by Ernesto Quaranta, an architect and later referred to as an engineer, with an initial base in Turin before relocating to Dolcedo, in the Ligurian hinterland behind Imperia, Italy. Quaranta's vision was to build boats using plywood, a material that allowed for specific construction techniques, particularly the "chined" hull form, which became a hallmark of the early SIBMA vessels. This approach likely offered advantages in construction efficiency and performance characteristics for certain designs, setting the foundation for the shipyard's unique identity. Ernesto Quaranta, the patriarch of the company, passed away in 2006.
History and Evolution
Over more than six decades, SIBMA Navale Italiana has navigated the evolving landscape of boat building, maintaining a steadfast dedication to wooden construction. The shipyard celebrated its 55th anniversary in 2017, a testament to its enduring presence in the industry. A significant evolution in the company's trajectory has been its expansion beyond solely building new plywood boats to becoming a recognized leader in the restoration of wooden and vintage yachts. This transition underscores their profound expertise in timber work and traditional boatbuilding methods. The company remains active and in business as of 2025, a continuous presence since its founding. Leadership of the shipyard has passed to Mario Quaranta, Ernesto's son, who continues the family legacy of craftsmanship and dedication to wooden boats.
Design Philosophy and Identity
SIBMA Navale Italiana's reputation in the marine world is built on its mastery of wooden boat construction. While initially celebrated for its plywood chined craft, the shipyard is now widely known for both its new builds and, crucially, for its exceptional restoration work on classic and vintage wooden vessels. Their identity is synonymous with a deep respect for traditional materials and techniques, combined with an understanding of modern requirements. Ernesto Quaranta himself was responsible for the designs of many of their early sailing boats, such as the EM 24 and EM 25 models. The shipyard's expertise extends to building new "Armstrong" classic motor yachts, further diversifying their portfolio while staying true to their wooden boat heritage.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, SIBMA Navale Italiana has produced several notable models that have contributed to its fame. Among the significant designs are the EM 24, EM 25, Promenade, and EM7. These plywood designs, conceived by founder Ernesto Quaranta, helped establish SIBMA's name in the sailing community. While specific production numbers are not widely publicized, these models were instrumental in building the shipyard's reputation for quality plywood construction. In more recent times, SIBMA Navale Italiana has become particularly prominent for its high-profile restoration projects of vintage yachts, breathing new life into historical vessels and preserving maritime heritage. This expertise has garnered attention, even leading to discussions about defending Italian colors in international sailing championships, highlighted by a Classic Boat Award.
The Builder Today
Today, SIBMA Navale Italiana continues to thrive under the guidance of Mario Quaranta, son of the founder, Ernesto Quaranta. The shipyard, located in Dolcedo, Italy, remains a respected entity in the global market, particularly for those who value the artistry and durability of wooden boats. Their modern appeal lies in their dual capability: crafting new, often custom, classic motor yachts like the Armstrong series, and their highly specialized and sought-after restoration services for historic vessels. The ownership experience for a SIBMA boat, whether new or restored, is undoubtedly centered on a profound appreciation for traditional boatbuilding, quality craftsmanship, and the timeless beauty of wood. While specific details on a formal owner community are not readily available, the very nature of owning and restoring classic wooden boats fosters a passionate and dedicated network of enthusiasts who share a common bond in preserving maritime history.
