Grand Soleil GS 80 Custom

Toby Hodges sails the largest grand Soleil yet, a powerful carbon build designed to compete in a high-end cruiser-racer field.

With its five-star hotel, hedonistic wellness spas and protected marina, the quaint haven of Portopiccolo, a former quarry in the Gulf of Trieste, has a luxury, Portofinotype air about it and attracts those who are well used to top-end products. But it was the yacht nestled in the corner of this marina, the black-hulled, carbonbuilt beast that is the first Grand Soleil 80, that drew attention during its world debut there in May.

The largest yacht in the company’s 45-year history, the GS 80 marks a new Custom Line venture, which also features a 68 already in the pipeline and a second, more cruising-orientated 80 with raised saloon and different deck and interior layout.

This is the first time Grand Soleil has subcontracted a build, to composite experts Adria Sail in Fano, as the Cantiere del Pardo yard in Forli is limited to yachts up to 70ft. And it’s the first time it has collaborated with America’s Cup designer Giovanni Ceccarelli.