Italy

Mask Architects 

Europe remains the centre of large superyacht construction, yet the United Arab Emirates is steadily expanding its own shipbuilding capability. Among the country’s emerging yacht builders is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Marine LLC (Company)">Romeo Marine</a>, which launched the 54.43-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Al Hanem 254.43m (178'7&quot;)Romeo Marine LLC2026">Al Hanem 2</a> last month.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Marine LLC (Company)">Romeo Marine</a>’s origins are linked to luxury interior manufacturer <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1368" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Interiors (Company)">Romeo Interiors</a>, founded in 1983 by Egyptian brothers Nader and Samy Nashed. Over time, Nader Nashed expanded the family’s activities to include the construction of large superyachts in Dubai through the establishment of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Marine LLC (Company)">Romeo Marine</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/374225/image/large-2e59d877e70a53bab8140cf400b29372.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/374225">During the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/271" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Monaco Yacht Show - 2025">Monaco Yacht Show</a>, SuperYacht Times met Eugenio Voltolina, Operations and Project Management Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Marine LLC (Company)">Romeo Marine</a>, to discuss the company’s evolution, the yard’s yacht building capacity and future plans.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/375744/image/large-543353cb285de95f86f8af66814cd137.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/375744">Expanding from interiors to yacht construction <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1368" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Interiors (Company)">Romeo Interiors</a> has been based in Dubai for more than five decades and is a key player in the interior manufacturing sector across the UAE and the wider Middle East, working on yachts, commercial real estate, and hospitality projects. Expanding into yacht construction and refit, Nader Nashed established <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Marine LLC (Company)">Romeo Marine</a> in 2008 under the same ownership, operating as its sister company. As Voltolina explains, “Clients began approaching us for assistance with their yachts, and from there came the interest to move first into refit and later into full construction.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/371571/image/large-9d8dc49a2aab4f1682834f0fd5b8b9c0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/371571">While new construction has become a growing focus, the company continues to undertake refit work for large yachts based in the UAE. “We are doing refit projects at the moment on very large yachts that are resident in the UAE and need service and refit,” Voltolina notes. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Marine LLC (Company)">Romeo Marine</a> recently launched the 54.43-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8279" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Al Hanem 254.43m (178'7&quot;)Romeo Marine LLC2026">Al Hanem 2</a>, featuring interiors by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4774" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pulina Exclusive Interiors (Company)">Pulina Exclusive Interiors</a> and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Marine LLC (Company)">Romeo Marine</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7367" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mask Architects (Company)">Mask Architects</a>. The shipyard also has a 60-metre superyacht currently under construction and plans to begin another 60-metre build in January 2026.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/375750/image/large-53229cacd2b92c974f29a78b115226d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/375750">Yacht building capacity<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Marine LLC (Company)"></a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Marine LLC (Company)">Romeo Marine</a> operates several facilities within Dubai Maritime City. The largest and most recent site is dedicated to new-build yacht production. The shipyard has the capacity to accommodate yachts of up to 100-metres.Voltolina explains that the yard is configured to handle multiple projects simultaneously. “At the moment, we can build two 60-metre projects at once, with construction staggered by about six months,” he says. “A separate section of the yard is configured for larger yachts, and we have now started work on our new 60-metre project.”The remaining facilities within Maritime City are used for refit and other maritime activities. According to Voltolina, the company intends to broaden its operations within the maritime sector, focusing on yachts over 50-metres.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/375748/image/large-a4fb152953c6aa736c1b0e0b83488bf7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/375748">UAE’s growing role in superyacht constructionVoltolina observes that yacht construction in the United Arab Emirates is developing in parallel with the country’s broader growth in infrastructure and tourism. He notes that all seven emirates are investing heavily in construction and waterfront development, creating conditions that support the marine industry.Compared with Europe, the UAE offers several practical advantages for yacht builders. “It is now extremely easy to establish new facilities here because we have the support of the country,” Voltolina explains. “Building a shipyard in the UAE can be four or five times faster than in Europe.” He also points to the benefits of operating within Dubai Maritime City’s free zone, where businesses face fewer taxes and simplified administrative procedures.Voltolina adds that the local industry continues to strengthen its technical base through targeted training and the recruitment of skilled personnel. “It is challenging because we must compete with an extremely high-level market,” he says, “but there are many advantages that attract companies to invest and expand in the UAE.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/375751/image/large-781b396a06b84e4bcfce9fd63beaa9c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/375751">Looking aheadDiscussing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Romeo Marine LLC (Company)">Romeo Marine</a>’s future direction, Voltolina emphasises the shipyard’s ambition to move further into the large-yacht segment. “We are even looking at a special project like a new 70-metre because we want to go from 60 to 70-metres,” he remarks. “That is where we are aiming. Most yachts over 50-metres built for UAE owners have so far come from abroad.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/375749/image/large-ff2c8b1d912d9fca39982dc696069c4a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/375749">Voltolina highlights the company’s focus on sustainability, revealing details about the 60-metre superyacht currently under construction. “It will be a fully hybrid vessel, incorporating the same level of technology found on top-class yachts,” he states. “We are working very hard to ensure it meets that standard.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/367050/image/large-2f87e1fd131f659cbec6cf96d4a919b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/367050">Gulf Superyacht Summit 2025 As the Middle East’s maritime sector continues to flourish, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/gulf-superyacht-summit-2024" target="_blank">Gulf Superyacht Summit</a> will return in December to the region. The seventh edition of the two-day conference will take place on 4 and 5 December 2025 in Abu Dhabi and promises to draw on the experiences of the previous summits.The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/gulf-superyacht-summit-2024" target="_blank">Gulf Superyacht Summit</a> seeks to inform, assist and advise yachting clients and related interested parties, with the goal to develop the Gulf as a superyacht winter destination. &nbsp;Tickets are available <a href="https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/gulf-superyacht-summit-2025-tickets-1393764560319" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">here</a>You can find out more about yachting in the Gulf region by <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/market-reports/gulf-superyacht-report-2024-2025" target="_blank">downloading the full Gulf Superyacht Report 2024-2025 here</a>.

How Romeo Marine is expanding into 60-metre plus superyachts

SuperYacht Times speaks with Eugenio Voltolina of Romeo Marine about the yard’s evolution, yacht building capacity, and future expansion plans.

Building bigger: How Romeo Marine is expanding into the larger superyacht segment

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7367" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mask Architects (Company)">Mask Architects</a> has unveiled the renderings of the 30.5-metre Project Tavolara-100 concept. According to the studio, the design was developed for a luxury and sport sailing yacht brand headquartered in Udine, Italy.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366593/image/large-015685d62842b820f0ebf169eb7eba50.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366593">In developing the concept, the designers set out to create a vessel that unites exceptional speed and performance with refined aesthetics and onboard comfort. “Project Tavolara-100 is conceived as the most technically advanced yacht ever to be realized by the esteemed client, meticulously tailored to fulfill the specific requests and unique vision of its discerning owner,” commented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7367" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mask Architects (Company)">Mask Architects</a> in a press release.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366591/image/large-9f4584b43d3031bdcc90d78fb9668903.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366591">"Project Tavolara-100&nbsp;represents a truly unique opportunity to push the boundaries of yacht design," commented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7367" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mask Architects (Company)">Mask Architects</a> founders Oznur Pinar Cer and Danilo Petta. "Our vision for this 100-foot fast cruising sloop is to create a harmonious blend of cutting-edge technology, aerodynamic efficiency and sophisticated elegance. We are channeling our expertise into every detail, ensuring Tavolara-100 will not only be a triumph of engineering but also a floating masterpiece that redefines the sailing experience."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366592/image/large-48a1d2e01b48b77b42851d8c994043da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366592">At the core of the design is the hull to be built from carbon fibre composite with a foam or balsa core in a sandwich configuration. This will enable maximum rigidity and ultra-lightweight performance which is key for achieving her fast-cruising capabilities. Manufacturing will utilize methods such as epoxy resin infusion via VARTM (Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding) or an autoclave process, ensuring fiber impregnation and monocoque strength.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366596/image/large-1f905d391da86831c239aacb73e9b606.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366596">Project Tavolara-100’s rigging will feature a High Modulus Carbon mast to minimise weight aloft and boost stability and efficiency. Her sail plan will incorporate 3Di sails from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/758" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="North Sails (Company)">North Sails</a>, made of Dyneema and carbon fibers. Technora fibers will be strategically used to enhance performance while maintaining a lightweight profile ideal for fast cruising.Inside, the focus is on luxury without sacrificing weight efficiency. Lightweight composite panels, honeycomb materials and lightened fine woods define the interiors and are complemented by carbon fiber accents. Moreover, her deck blends timeless charm with modern refinement, using natural teak over a composite sandwich structure. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366594/image/large-10004861cceab9cdbe23222da1b78d12.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366594">Regarding her onboard technology, the sloop is engineered to elevate both autonomy and user experience. Electric or hydraulic winches will streamline semi-automated sail handling, while integrated home automation will offer centralized and remote control of lighting, climate and electronics. Central to the vessel’s design is a hybrid propulsion system, enhanced by energy regeneration capabilities while under sail.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/366589/image/large-6cd363fb04bfcb0e715d7d49b7abe2c2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/366589">“This project represents a commitment by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7367" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mask Architects (Company)">Mask Architects</a> to pushing the limits of modern sailing yacht design, where every material choice, technological solution and design direction is meticulously chosen to combine beauty, intelligence and performance. Tavolara is not merely a yacht; it is envisioned as a floating expression of innovation, elegance and engineering mastery,” concluded the design studio.

Mask Architects Project Tavolara

Mask Architects has unveiled the renderings of the 30.5-metre Project Tavolara-100 concept.

Mask Architects unveils 31m Project Tavolara sailing yacht concept

Italy-based <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7367" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mask Architects (Company)">MASK Architects</a> have unveiled the renderings for a new 85-metre hydrogen-powered superyacht, ONYX H2-BO 85.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289406/image/large-73fbac70cced407c0eed9c8b46615e17.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289406">The ONYX H2-BO 85 superyacht will be propelled by onboard hydrogen production and hopes to spearhead the new era of sustainability in yachting, and set a new standard for luxury and eco-consciousness.&nbsp;“This groundbreaking vessel ingeniously combines hydrogen production through electrolysis with hydroelectric turbines, providing a unique solution for sustainable power generation during short cruising distances while minimising environmental impact,” commented <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7367" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mask Architects (Company)">MASK Architects</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289412/image/large-9c654f0b2b3b8377a81fc50e7c151cd7.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289412">The ONYX H2-BO 85 yacht will harness the energy-efficient process of electrolysis through hydroelectric turbines, creating ‘zero-emissions’, reducing the yacht’s ecological footprint during sailing.Her hydroelectric turbines efficiently capture the kinetic energy of the surrounding water to create clean energy by generating and storing hydrogen onboard. This eliminates the need for large fuel reserves and provides easily accessible energy during low-speed sailing or anchoring.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289410/image/large-cf780946930393dd57adf2e1edd9d4cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289410">“ONYX H2-BO 85 seamlessly fuses luxury and sustainability. The yacht's interior exemplifies modern elegance, featuring bespoke design solutions that cater to the most discerning tastes,” explained <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7367" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mask Architects (Company)">MASK Architects</a>.Her interior combines opulent and lavish lounge areas to create an aura of refined sophistication. Renowned interior designers have painstakingly curated every detail, combining sumptuous materials, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable elements to create an ambiance that is both inviting and eco-conscious.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289409/image/large-44bc3b1e30c70e345fed8f1aa128f252.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289409">ONYX H2-BO 85 is designed in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7367" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mask Architects (Company)">MASK Architects</a> and Alchemist Studio, and what sets her apart from other eco-conscious yachts is her onboard hydrogen propulsion system, which utilises seawater to generate hydrogen gas, through a process known as electrolysis.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289408/image/large-ed00174a758c16ba8b7f46f0783cf5e0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289408">ONYX H2-BO 85 draws and filters seawater from the surrounding environment and pretreats it to remove impurities like salt, minerals, and other particles before electrolysis. After this process her two electrodes from the electrolysis chamber are immersed in the pre-treated seawater, where a current is passed through the seawater causing the water molecules to break apart into hydrogen and oxygen gases.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289411/image/large-6eef8383c0efec099abfac42f05da0ac.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289411">The hydrogen gas from this process forms at the negative electrode, known as the cathode and is separated from the oxygen gas at the positive electrode, known as the anode. The hydrogen is then stored in suitable containers or tanks.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289407/image/large-94208e4fb062bd5c3937dd5116e4fd65.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289407">As hydrogen is a highly flammable gas, safety measures such as adequate ventilation, leak detection systems, and safety protocols have been put into place to ensure the hydrogen is handled and stored safely. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289404/image/large-06d8548b7b085c768dd7fa722db02172.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289404">The produced hydrogen can then be used as a fuel source for various purposes on the yacht, such as powering engines, generators, or fuel cells. It can also be stored as a backup power source.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/289403/image/large-1932115d1d054ee03a1d59f853624d27.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/289403">“The ONYX H2-BO 85 represents a significant leap forward in environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, onboard comfort, and financial savings. In a world where environmental consciousness takes centre stage, this cutting-edge technology positions the yacht as the premier choice in the marine industry,” concluded <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7367" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mask Architects (Company)">MASK Architects</a>.

MASK Architects unveils hydrogen-powered yacht ONYX H2-BO 85

Italy-based MASK Architects have unveiled the renderings for a new 85-metre hydrogen-powered superyacht, ONYX H2-BO 85.