Bellini Yacht Astor 38: from the one-off PISTA project to the production model

By Press Mare

23/04/2026 - 15:55

Bellini Yacht expands its range with the Astor 38, a model directly derived from a one-off project developed at the request of professional racing driver Francesco Castellacci. The prototype, named Astor 38 PISTA, represents the starting point of a process that now leads to series production, with availability scheduled from September 2026.

The project originated from the meeting between the client’s requirements and a model already under development by the shipyard. Castellacci requested a boat capable of translating key elements of motorsport—such as precision and control—into a nautical context. He also emphasized how the process was strongly oriented towards customization, noting that it was not simply about choosing a boat, but about building it together with the yard, integrating elements from his racing background and achieving a result consistent with his identity, including from an aesthetic standpoint. The Astor 38 retains the dynamic approach of the prototype, while incorporating stylistic elements typical of Bellini Yacht’s design language.

“The reference to the colours of my Ferrari LMGT3 Evo,” said Francesco Castellacci, “makes it even more personal, like a direct link between track and sea.” The PISTA version, in fact, stands out for its metallic silver and red livery, teak deck and a series of carbon fibre details inspired by high-performance cars. This automotive influence is also reflected in the helm station layout and seating, featuring custom patterns derived from sports car interiors.

Additional distinctive elements include the steering wheel with a red central insert, functional indicators highlighting moving components, and a windshield frame finished in “Giallo Modena”, reinforcing the connection to racing aesthetics.

From a design standpoint, the model has been developed to combine performance with usability, targeting an owner interested in both dynamic operation and weekend onboard living. The hull has been optimized for stability at high speeds, while the cockpit layout follows ergonomic principles inspired by motorsport. The interiors, defined by a contemporary design, include a twin cabin aft, with a layout focused on functionality at sea.

Commenting on the project, Martina Bellini, Marketing Director of the Bellini Group, highlighted how the collaboration with Castellacci represented a natural step in the product’s development, noting that transforming a series model into a unique unit was a direct outcome of this process. She also pointed out that the yard’s approach is based on combining design vision, build quality and attention to detail to turn concepts into tangible products.

The transition from a bespoke project to a production model represents a coherent evolution in the shipyard’s strategy, which aims to integrate customization with industrial production. In this case, the experience gained from the one-off unit has enabled the development of a replicable platform, while maintaining a high level of design definition.

From a technical standpoint, the Astor 38 has an overall length of 11.58 metres, with a hull length of 9.99 metres—allowing classification as a recreational craft—and a waterline length of 9.30 metres. The beam is 3.90 metres, with a draft of 0.70 metres. Displacement is approximately 8.1 tonnes light and around 9.8 tonnes fully loaded. Fuel capacity is 680 litres, while the freshwater tank holds 150 litres; the boat is certified to carry up to 10 people.

The Astor 38 PISTA will be on display at the Cannes Yachting Festival, scheduled from 8 to 13 September 2026, where it will provide an initial market response for this new Made in Italy proposal.