North Sails opens one of the biggest sail lofts in the world in Genova – Video and photos

In the new Waterfront di Levante in Genova, where the city opens itself to the sea, North Sails has opened a new production space dedicated to some of the largest sails in the world. A space that is not just a technical laboratory, but also an innovation hub for international sailing.

The building, a modern build suspended 20 metres above the ground, has been designed to allow for work on exceptionally large sails, up to 75 metres long. The 3500m2 loft is one of the brand’s most advanced assets, further raising the profile of the entire sailing segment in the Mediterranean. Daily Nautica followed the opening ceremony closely, collecting images, technical details, and comments from those present at the event.

A vertical laboratory where the future takes shape

When stepping into the new loft one can immediately feel the grandeur of the design. The sewing machines are located inside large rotation pits that move 360 degrees, while the floor has been designed to support heavy loads, similar to the weight of meters’ long water columns. This is where North Sails will produce and repair 3000 sails a year, working with over 85,000m2 of fabric.

For Alessio Razeto, sales manager for North Sails Italia, this loft is much more than a production facility. “It is a space – he explained – that showcases the vitality of the Italian sailing industry and the determination of our team, which finally has the space to achieve their ambitions.”

This is also shared by the CEO of North Sails Italia Daniele Cassinari, who underscored the strategic impact of this opening. “This state-of-the-art loft – he announced – will become a central hub for the North Sails global network, and will provide a decisive contribution to the sailing community in Genova and the Mediterranean.”

“Genova becomes the Mediterranean capital for sailing”

During the event, the president of Regione Liguria, Marco Bucci, who is also an expert sailor, spoke to Daily Nautica about how this opening is an important step in relaunching the city. “There is no need to explain – he stated – why we wanted North Sails in Genova, it is the top sail manufacturer in the world. With their presence, along with the Boat Show and the new Waterfront, we can say that Genova is becoming the Mediterranean capital for pleasure sailing. We worked as a team both when the wind was against us and when we were able to speed ahead, and now we are expecting every success: technical, commercial and sporting.”

A facility designed for the water

With bespoke technology, air conditioned warehouses, professional washing systems and a motorised system that allows the sails to be stretched as if they were on board, the new loft is a concentration of state-of-the-art solutions that respond to the needs of superyachts, Grand Prix vessels and professional sailing.

The CEO of North Sails, Sam Watson, noted how this grand opening represent a key achievement for the brand. “This is an investment – he said – that consolidates our international leadership and allows us to provide even more complete services for our clients, from European sailing centres to international fleets.”

With the opening of this new hub, Genova strengthens its central role in the sailing industry and boating. The loft will become an integral part of its development, a place that showcases the efforts of a growing sector and the city’s maritime identity.