A Showcase That Turned Heads
Sanlorenzo UK made a serious impact at this year’s British Motor Yacht Show, arriving at Swanwick Marina with their largest UK display to date. On the water were two of their most striking builds – the ultra-refined SL96A and the adventurous SX76. But while the styling and craftsmanship impressed as always, the bigger story was happening behind the scenes: Sanlorenzo is steering firmly toward a more sustainable future.
Designing for a Cleaner Tomorrow
As a boutique builder in a market often dominated by volume-driven giants, Sanlorenzo is choosing to differentiate through innovation. Rather than scale up, they’re doubling down on sustainable design – dedicating serious resources to creating next-generation yachts that are lighter on the planet but no less luxurious.
As Marco Falossi, Sanlorenzo’s R&D Manager, puts it, they are “working in the wake of the big companies” – not trailing behind, but carving out a space where innovation and urgency converge. For a smaller shipyard, the freedom lies in focus – and Sanlorenzo is putting its energy into creating yachts that aren’t just beautiful, but built for a cleaner future.
Their environmental targets are clear: achieve net neutrality by 2040 and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2030. Within that, they’re aiming to cut navigation-related emissions by up to 70%. That’s around 10 years ahead of where much of the market currently stands. It’s all part of Sanlorenzo’s ‘Road to 2030’ strategy – an ambitious blueprint for a cleaner fleet, starting now.
Why Green Methanol Is the Future of Yachting
Unlike hydrogen, methanol doesn’t need cryogenic storage. Unlike diesel, it doesn’t pollute the air or water. It’s biodegradable, already handled in over 100 ports worldwide, and crucially, it’s liquid at ambient temperatures – making it one of the most viable marine fuels available today.
Sanlorenzo is leading the charge with a new green methanol bi-fuel propulsion system developed in partnership with MAN Engines. This innovative engine will make its debut aboard the 50X-Space in 2027, allowing the yacht to run on methanol where supported, and switch to diesel when exploring less developed regions. It’s a practical approach, designed for real-world cruising.
Onboard Innovation: Net-Zero, Made Practical
The 50X-Space won’t just sail cleaner – it will also integrate compact energy cabinets that convert methanol and water into hydrogen (used for power) and CO₂ (a by-product), powering the yacht’s hotel systems silently and efficiently. This setup will allow up to seven days of net-zero emissions while at anchor.
Backing these advances is a strong network of collaborators: Siemens Energy is helping with hybrid propulsion, Volvo Penta is involved with next-gen drive systems, and Nanni and the European Union’s LIFE MYSTIC project supports Sanlorenzo’s full-scale testing of bi-fuel engines.
The SL96A: Asymmetry with Purpose
On the dock, the SL96A drew attention with its signature asymmetric layout – a clever design that elevates the port-side deck to unlock greater interior volume and a smoother spatial flow. At 29.06 metres, it’s a sleek and modern addition to Sanlorenzo’s series, defined by clean lines and well-balanced proportions. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the saloon with natural light, enhancing the open-plan layout and connecting guests more closely to the surrounding sea. It’s a design that feels both intelligent and instinctive – form following function, but without ever compromising on beauty.
The SX76: Effortless Style, Built for Living
The SX76, meanwhile, channels relaxed elegance. With its crossover credentials – part flybridge cruiser, part explorer – it features open-air living spaces, a fully equipped wet bar, and interiors dressed in Poltrona Frau and Cassina. At 23.75 metres, it’s agile but thoroughly indulgent, made for coastal escapes and long, lazy weekends afloat.
Ready to Set Sail
The best news: The SX76 is actually available for immediate delivery – an increasingly rare opportunity in the world of bespoke yachts. These yachts are more than just beautiful builds; they’re proof that Sanlorenzo’s future-forward vision is already underway.
Sanlorenzo’s presence at the British Motor Yacht Show wasn’t just about showing off polish and performance. It was a statement of intent. With serious environmental goals and real solutions already in motion, this is a shipyard proving that the future of luxury yachting can be cleaner, quieter, and no less spectacular.
- Sanlorenzo UK
- The SL96A
- The SX76
- MAN Engines
- The 50X-Space
- Siemens Energy
- Volvo Penta
- Nanni Energies
- LIFE MYSTIC project
