Aqua – Sailing Yacht 60′

NOVEM Nautical Design, WISAMO Michelin and JFA YACHTS Join Forces to Develop an Exceptional Yacht – the Result of a 100% French Collaboration

The “AQUA” concept is an innovative, high-performance, silent yacht with reduced energy consumption. Through this project, WISAMO Michelin continues its development by partnering with key players in the yachting industry to support the decarbonization of the maritime sector

“AQUA”: A Trailblazing, Elegant, and Eco-Friendly Yacht

The “AQUA” yacht project is a 60-foot “Daysailer”* designed by NOVEM Nautical Design. It is accessible to all — experienced sailors and motorboat enthusiasts alike — and will be built by the renowned shipyard JFA YACHTS, featuring an epoxy carbon hull with long, deep appendages. With its futuristic design, this project pushes the boundaries of minimalism. Construction will be carried out by JFA Yachts at their shipyard in Concarneau, France.

An Innovative and High-Performance Yacht

NOVEM has designed this yacht with a large, open space that allows easy movement on board. With no structures on the deck, the WISAMO system integrates seamlessly, thanks to its self-supporting telescopic mast — a true revolution that eliminates the need for traditional rigging and shrouds. This allows the “AQUA” yacht to feature a wide open exterior deck that becomes the main living area onboard.

The 60-foot dayboat offers a comfortable interior, allowing for extended stays at sea, including overnight accommodations. “AQUA” can host up to 6 people — perfect for family gatherings or adventures with friends. A fully equipped kitchen complements a salon designed for 8 guests.

Automated and Sustainable Navigation

Thanks to the WISAMO sail propulsion system by Michelin — developed to automatically adjust based on wind direction and strength — there is no need for expertise in sailing maneuvers. The heel angle can also be managed automatically, making sailing more comfortable. By integrating this suite of technologies, the “AQUA” yacht ensures a sustainable sailing experience while maintaining a sleek and efficient design.

“AQUA” is also able to access protected areas without polluting or disturbing marine ecosystems.

By expanding into the yachting market, Michelin’s WISAMO solution, initially developed to help decarbonize maritime shipping, demonstrates its versatility. Particularly effective for leisure boating, it offers smooth and safe sailing — even for users more familiar with motorboats.

The yacht will also feature a secondary electric propulsion system to assist with port maneuvers or windless days. Staying true to its minimalist approach, NOVEM has designed “AQUA” to generate its own energy through a hydro-generator and a hydrogen unit. This bold and innovative approach aligns with environmentally conscious practices.

A Proven Technology by Michelin

The innovative WISAMO technology has been rigorously tested by the Michelin Group in all weather conditions, including winter in the Bay of Biscay. Initially designed for commercial and professional vessels, the WISAMO wing also proves perfectly suited for recreational yachting.

Combined with the lightweight construction planned by JFA YACHTS, the WISAMO wing enables the creation of a yacht that is both environmentally friendly and resource-efficient.

“The WISAMO wing can be adapted to any type of boat and uses wind energy for propulsion. It’s very easy to use — you just activate the system and stay on course,”

says Michel Desjoyeaux, double Vendée Globe winner and WISAMO Michelin technical consultant.