Cantiere del Pardo unveils Grand Soleil Blue, a marvellous 33-foot yacht

With the Grand Soleil Blue, Cantiere del Pardo unveils a yacht that defies categorisation, a sleek 33-foot marvel that redefines what a weekender can be. Compact yet powerful, sustainable yet stylish, and above all effortlessly enjoyable, this is a yacht built not only to sail but also to seduce.

The Grand Soleil Blue signals a daring new direction for the storied Italian brand. At just under 10 metres, it is the smallest in the Grand Soleil line-up, but arguably the most revolutionary. It’s been conceived from keel to mast as a sophisticated answer to the modern sailor’s dilemma: how to enjoy premium sailing without the complexity or commitment of a full-size cruiser. This boat is about freedom and is designed for shorthanded or solo sailing. Whether it’s a spontaneous afternoon dash across the bay, a quiet overnight escape, or a weekend voyage with friends, this boat is always ready. Push-button electric winches, a self-tacking jib option, and a light, fast hull make exhilarating performance almost automatic, even with a minimal crew.

The GS Blue is Grand Soleil’s most sustainable yacht. Everything about this vessel speaks of an intelligent shift towards environmental responsibility, from its recyclable Arkema Elium resin hull to its PET foam core made from post-consumer waste. Even the deck adhesives and rigging systems have been designed for easy disassembly, ensuring that this yacht can be recycled rather than retired when the time comes. And then there’s electric propulsion. Opt for the six kw ePropulsion pod system with its whisper-quiet motor, and you’ll experience yachting without fumes, noise, or vibration. It’s a silent revolution that adds a range of up to 60 nautical miles, with dual battery packs and hydro generation, allowing the boat to recharge while under sail.

Naturally, the GS Blue doesn’t forsake elegance. Nauta Design has sculpted a refined and youthful exterior, while the interior is a masterclass in compact luxury. From the Italian-style galley and bright head compartment to convertible saloon seating and airy light schemes, every element has been optimised for comfort, beauty, and intelligent use of space. The modular design means the boat can transform seamlessly from a sunlit lounge to a sleeping retreat for two or four, when needed. Outside, long cockpit benches, a carbon dining table option, and a convertible sunbed area create a true outdoor living space. Even the bathing platform has been reimagined: folding out to offer easy access to the water, it becomes a natural extension of the deck for lounging or boarding.

Whether sailing the sun-drenched coasts of the Mediterranean or the crisp waters of the North Sea, the Grand Soleil Blue is ready. Adaptable, elegant, and constantly engaging, it’s a new kind of sailboat for a new sailor type.

Article edited by Mark Webber