Nestled on the historic shores of Aquileia, Italy, where the Roman Empire and the Venetian Republic once shaped maritime endeavors, lies the distinguished shipyard of Solaris Yachts. Founded in 1974 under the original name Cantiere Se.Ri.Gi, Solaris has spent over four decades building an illustrious reputation for constructing high-quality, performance-oriented sailing yachts and, more recently, luxurious motor yachts.
The Origin Story
The venture began in 1974 when the shipyard opened its gates in Aquileia. Initially, Cantiere Se.Ri.Gi focused on yacht repair and refit services. However, it quickly transitioned into building new vessels, driven by a philosophy centered on creating seaworthy, solid, and secure boats of the highest quality standards. While specific details about the original founder's background are not widely publicized, the company's early commitment to robust construction and sailing excellence laid the groundwork for its future prominence.
History and Evolution
Solaris Yachts' history is marked by a consistent pursuit of excellence and strategic growth. For over 40 years, the shipyard has been a leader in the European market for top-class sailing boats ranging from 50 to 110 feet (15.24m to 33.53m).
A significant milestone in the company's evolution came in 2018 with the launch of its iconic motorboat range, Solaris Power. This expansion introduced a new line of vessels, allowing Solaris to broaden its appeal while maintaining its core values of quality and design. The Aquileia site has also expanded to optimize production, showcasing the company's commitment to modern manufacturing alongside its traditional craftsmanship.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Solaris Yachts is renowned in the sailing world for producing prestigious performance yachts that seamlessly blend Italian design with robust engineering. The shipyard's reputation is built on creating yachts known for their seaworthiness, solidity, and security, appealing to discerning yachtsmen who prioritize both exhilarating performance and uncompromising comfort. The brand's design philosophy is often characterized by a "no frills" approach, focusing on clean lines and functional elegance.
A defining characteristic of Solaris's identity is its collaboration with highly respected naval architects. Argentinian master designer Javier Soto Acebal has been instrumental in shaping the aesthetics and performance of Solaris's modern fleet, including designs like the Solaris 44, 64, and the larger Solaris 111. Earlier iconic models saw collaborations with legendary designers such as Doug Peterson, who designed the Solaris 52 and 72, and Frans Maas, credited with the 1977 Solaris 36. This blend of in-house expertise and external design talent ensures a continuous stream of innovative and aesthetically pleasing yachts.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Solaris has launched numerous significant and successful models that have cemented its legacy in the marine industry. In the sailing division, notable yachts include the Solaris 36, Solaris 52, and Solaris 72. More recent and widely recognized sailing models include the Solaris 44, Solaris 50, and Solaris 64, embodying the brand's commitment to performance cruising. Their diverse sailing range includes "Flush Deck" and "Raised Saloon" configurations, with sizes extending up to the impressive Solaris 111.
The transition into motor yachts brought forth models like the Solaris Express Cruiser, the company's first motorboat, and the widely acclaimed Solaris Power 57 Lobster, which marked a significant turning point for the brand in the powerboat market. Other popular Solaris Power models include the 40 Open, 44 Open, 48 Lobster, 52 Open, and 60 Open.
Solaris's impact is evident in its position as a leading builder of performance yachts globally. Their yachts are celebrated for their balanced design and high-quality construction, contributing to a strong and loyal owner community, exemplified by annual events like the Solaris Cup.
The Builder Today
Today, Solaris Yachts continues to operate from its established shipyard in Aquileia, Italy. The company recently saw a significant corporate change with Marc Giorgetti becoming the new majority shareholder, signaling a new chapter for the Italian group.
Solaris's modern boats appeal to a discerning clientele seeking a blend of high performance, luxury, and durability. The ownership experience is enriched by a strong community, as evidenced by events like the Solaris Cup, where Solaris owners gather to celebrate their yachts and passion for sailing. Solaris maintains its focus on Italian design and engineering excellence, continuing to build yachts from 40ft to 111ft that stand as benchmarks in their respective categories.
