Design in movement: the new designs by Philippe Briand

The recent launch of the 50m ALY50 from Alia Yachts in Antalya, Turkey, once again put the spotlight on Philippe Briand and his skill in combining curated aesthetics and cutting-edge naval architecture.

Designed by Vitruvius Yacht Design (a brand belonging to the Briand Group), this vessels is the result of a strategic collaboration with Dutch design and naval architecture studio, Mulder Design, specialised in fast vessels, with interior design by Liaigre, all under the project management of engineer, Giuseppe Sole.

Philippe Briand’s holistic vision

ALY501 is not the only recent release by Philippe Briand, who has over 40 years of experience and over 12,000 sailing vessels launched around the world. In the wake of all this, the French designer has delivered or is planning a large qualntity of vessels, ranging from motor yachts to sail boats, vessels in series and cruise ships.

“I am passionate about yachts – explains Briand – but I am also working hard on the future of our field. Every year, my team and I incubate up to 10 new projects, ranging through the entire spectrum of boating.” Work that sees him involved in several projects at once.

Project under construction and advanced design

The Group is working on different fronts, showcasing its vibrant planning skills. Under construction is a 52m  Tankoa Vitruvius, with delivery planned in January 2026, while, in advanced design phase, are a 79.5m Vitruvius in partnership with Oceanco (using the shipyard’s new platform), an 80m Vitruvius in partnership with Turquoise, and an unprecedented 100m Vitruvius Sailing Cruise Ship, converging, for the first time, a superyacht and a luxury cruise ship.

But the work in motor yachts has not stopped work in other areas: sailing remains the central focus. Briand describes sail boats as “ the most elegant and technically refined maritime objects ever created.” Vessels for informed luxury, “a rational and sustainable alternative – notes the French designer – to motor boating. The allow for true autonomy, freedom, and connection to the water, far beyond the confines of the Mediterranean.”

CNB 62

Currently in the design phase are two Luxury Sailing Yachts, 6m and 90m, created for long term comfort but with a reduced crew and more autonomy, the new Blue Water Series (30m-38m), high performance single hull cruisers ready to begin construction mid-2026, and a next generation 60m Zero Emissions yacht, with advanced rigging and propulsion systems (one recent successful example is the CNB Sailing Yacht 62, nominated in the European Yacht of the year Awards 2026).

An integrated and international group

The success of the Philippe Briand Group is based on the structure of three specialised studios working together:

• Philippe Briand in London, personally led by Briand.
• Vitruvius Yacht Design in Viareggio, led by Michele Baccetti, focusing on motor yachts.
• Briand Yacht Design in La Rochelle, led by Yannick Abgral, a hub for sailing, hydrodynamics and naval architecture.

A division that provides a range of high end skills for both private owners and shipyards from around the world.  Visionary designs, that capture the wind, water, and solar power for unrivalled sailing experiences.

Najiba by Vitruvius Yachts

“In the years to come – concludes Philippe Briand – the rarest and most sought after luxury will be distance, not imposed, but chosen. A yacht is a floating sanctuary, a place of serenity and control that no hotel or villa can replicate. You don’t just move ‘somewhere’, but go ‘beyond’.”

by Marcella Ottolenghi