CRN M/Y 145 Project Thunderball: bespoke as a design methodology
As the yacht approaches its final construction stages, CRN M/Y 145 Project Thunderball stands out as one of the most representative projects of the Ancona-based shipyard’s ability to interpret fully custom yacht building. This 70-metre displacement superyacht, built in steel and aluminium, embodies a coherent synthesis of naval engineering, design research and craftsmanship, following an approach in which attention to detail becomes the true generator of design.
The project stems from the collaboration between CRN and Ferretti Group Superyacht Division, Dutch studio Vripack Yacht Design—responsible for the exterior lines, preliminary naval architecture and initial general arrangements—and Nauta Design, in charge of the interior design and outdoor social areas. During the development phase, CRN handled the engineering, final naval architecture and general arrangements, and is managing the project through to delivery.
Y.CO, acting as Owner’s representative and project management team, plays a key role by providing technical expertise and close supervision throughout construction, coordinating external contractors and managing inspection, supervision and acceptance processes, ensuring the highest standards are met while fully respecting the Owner’s vision.
From a dimensional standpoint, Project Thunderball is arranged over five decks, with a length overall of 70 metres, an 11-metre beam and a gross tonnage of 1,100 GT. The layout accommodates 12 guests, including an Owner’s suite and five VIP cabins, as well as 15 crew members housed in nine cabins, all designed to an exceptionally high comfort standard.
On the technical and energy side, the yacht is equipped with an Energy Storage System designed to manage onboard energy flows according to operational profiles. The system enables peak shaving and ensures particularly quiet operation at anchor, contributing to a significant reduction in fuel consumption. Propulsion is provided by MAN V12 engines rated at 1,213 kW, delivering a maximum speed of 15.5 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots. Launch is scheduled for spring 2026.
At the core of the project lies the approach to spaces and details. CRN and Nauta Design have focused on achieving a balance between overall spatial architecture and meticulous detailing, developing interiors in which each area retains its own identity while contributing to a unified and continuous design language. Recurrent forms, interpreted in different ways, ensure visual consistency without sacrificing variety. Material selection follows a tailored, sartorial logic.
Wood veneers, natural stones, leathers, metals and fabrics have been chosen and processed with great care for textures, tones and finishes. Nauta Design has been deeply involved throughout the entire production chain, from selecting marble blocks to choosing veneers and finishes, working alongside craftsmen, suppliers and consultants to enhance the bespoke character of every single element.
Particularly noteworthy is the strong continuity between interior and exterior design. Geometries and proportions echo one another, creating a fluid and recognisable pathway throughout the yacht. Forms repeat at different scales, across materials and functions, maintaining a measured balance between coherence and spatial articulation.
Lighting plays a fundamental role in the design of the spaces. The integration of bespoke light sources with in-depth technical studies creates multiple onboard atmospheres, allowing materials and forms to be fully expressed. Lighting is fully integrated into the design—sometimes concealed, sometimes becoming a furnishing element in its own right—highlighting lines, details, furnishings and artworks, and contributing to a refined and understated ambience.
The implementation of onboard technology follows the same principles. Systems and equipment reach levels of absolute technical excellence while remaining deliberately discreet. Every component is concealed, integrated or aesthetically reinterpreted; innovation is never ostentatious, revealing itself only through the quality of the final result.
Construction work continues steadily at the CRN shipyard. Progress on the exterior runs in parallel with interior outfitting, with installation activities underway across the lower deck, main deck, bridge deck and sun deck, in line with the established schedule.
Project Thunderball thus represents a tangible expression of the bespoke culture that defines the CRN brand—not only in the creation of high-end custom yachts, but also in processes, working methods and the relationship with the Owner. An approach that confirms bespoke as a true design methodology rather than a simple attribute.
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