The evolution of Custom Line’s best-selling Navetta line
Following the recent launch of the Custom Line Navetta 38, BOAT’s Hannah Rankine explores the evolution of the Navetta line and highlights the innovations introduced with the latest model
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The birth of Navetta by Custom Line
Custom Line was established in 1996 to provide owners with the opportunity to purchase a semi-displacement yacht over 24 metres, the largest size that Ferretti Yachts was producing at the time, whilst remaining a part of the Ferretti Group. While the inaugural model was a 27-metre yacht launched in 2000, the shipyard quickly recognised a demand for larger vessels. The fleet subsequently expanded to include a 33-metre and 26-metre yachts. This led to the introduction of a 30-metre, now known as the Custom Line Navetta 30, with dozens built over the years.
In 2014, the shipyard developed the models that remain central to its lineup today: the Navetta 30, 33, the new 38, and 42. The result is a series that has grown into one of Ferretti Group's most significant revenue streams, with nearly 300 yachts over 30 metres produced since its inception.
Modernising a classic
A reimagining of the Custom Line Navetta 37, the 38 represents one of the shipyard’s latest innovations, with the first hull launched in summer 2024. Custom Line set out to design a large yacht that remains within the 300GT limit. Exceeding that threshold brings stricter crew, management and construction regulations, potentially raising costs. For the past 20 years, the 300GT size has been a best-seller for the brand, offering the amenities of a larger vessel while retaining the benefits of a smaller one. It allows access to nearly any harbour, maintains a smaller draught and limits crew size to seven, making it easier to operate. This size is also perfect for charter, according to the shipyard, which is why Custom Line began with a 37-metre at 280GT and relaunched it as a 38-metre at 299GT.
The Custom Line 38 represents one of the shipyard’s latest innovations, with the first hull launched in summer 2024
Even more efficient
With many new technological innovations, the Custom Line Navetta 38 is arguably the shipyard’s most advanced to date. The yacht builds on all the advancements seen over the past decade with the Navetta 37. For this vessel, the shipyard has focused on reducing energy consumption by improving insulation, which lowers the power needed for cooling - one of the primary energy uses on board. Additionally, the shipyard has enhanced sound insulation and optimised the hull even more.
With six units already sold and the seventh currently under construction, this latest model will be equipped with the first MTU hybrid engines, aimed at reducing emissions. This technology also offers the luxury of cruising at slow speeds in complete silence, and the ability to remain at anchor without the need to run generators.
Elevated design
The Custom Line Navetta 30 and 38 feature exteriors designed by Filippo Salvetti and interiors by ACPV Architects, with the latest Custom Line Navetta 38 introducing several new design elements to meet the demands of today’s owners. Designer Patricia Viel emphasises the studio’s commitment to creating a “sea-friendly” atmosphere on board. "The interaction between the sea and the natural light are crucial features of the yacht’s design,” she says. “Visions of the sea and natural light permeate the yacht through glossy and mirrored reflective surfaces in the main saloon and the skylounge, for example.”
A prime example of this approach is the reimagined beach club. The swim platform has been enhanced, now featuring a sofa and lounging area at sea level. The addition of wings on either side also creates ample space for relaxing by the water.
The connection between the cockpit and the swim platform has been improved so that there is a shaded area near the beach club. Instead of vast open decks that require canopies, the cockpit is designed to be expansive and practical with 110 square metres from there to the swim platform.
The upper deck saloon embodies Custom Line’s refined philosophy over the past 30 years. Previous Navetta models had fully opening windows on the upper deck saloon, merging indoor and outdoor spaces With the Custom Line Navetta 38, this has been taken further by allowing the aft and side doors of the skylounge to open completely. The shipyard's perspective has evolved from viewing boats as formal spaces to seeing them as informal summer houses - a place to relish life in beautiful weather. This design lets the owners and guests fully embrace the fresh air, sea breeze and outdoor experience.
Designer Chiara Massarani highlights the “tridimensional” elements of the materials as a signature feature of this project. “Sensory perception is key, including the tactile experience of material surfaces and the light vibrations they create. For instance, the leather-covered handrail on the guest staircase adds a softer touch,” she explains.
The launch of the Custom Line Navetta 38 has been a key milestone for the shipyard, and it is keeping up the momentum. The new Custom Line 50 debuted at the recent Monaco Yacht Show – it’s an exciting time for the brand.
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For more information about the Custom Line Navetta 38, contact the shipyard today.
