Amer Yachts builds unique superyacht powered by Volvo Penta IPS

Luxury boat-builder Amer Yachts has created an exclusive superyacht of 110 feet – the largest ever to be powered by Volvo Penta’s Inboard Performance System (IPS).

The special vessel, named ‘Unique’, has been made for a distinguished client who already has yachts of 100ft (the Amer Cento) and 92ft by the Italian brand. The 110-foot superyacht is powered by Volvo Penta IPS and is the largest yet to feature the innovative propulsion system. It is being revealed by Amer Yachts at the Cannes Yachting Festival, from September 12-17.

"This is a very special one-off boat, so we decided we had to call it 'Unique'," says Barbara Amerio, owner of Amer Yachts. "Our client had the Amer Cento last year, and he liked it so much that he wanted another one, but with more space. It is very exciting to create the biggest yacht in the world with Volvo Penta IPS. We keep building bigger and better yachts, and our customers keep wanting more and more luxury."

The Amer Unique is similar to the Amer Cento, launched in 2016, although it is 10 feet longer, to provide more interior space. The three-deck superyacht is the first in the world to be powered by Volvo Penta IPS1200 Quad, and has reached speeds of more than 30 knots during sea trials. It has impressive fuel consumption of 45 l/h at 9 knots, 502.5 l/h at 25 knots, and 665 l/h at 30 knots.

Award winning brands

Amer Yachts is part of the Permare Group and was established in Italy in the 1970s. The company has an international reputation for creating luxury yachts and has won numerous awards for its technical innovation and design excellence. Volvo Penta and Amer Yachts won awards at the World Yachts Trophies ceremony at the Cannes Yachting Festival in 2016. The companies were jointly recognized for the Amer Cento, which was named ‘Most Innovative Yacht’; and Volvo Penta’s Inboard Performance System was awarded 'Engine-Propulsion of the Year'.

"It’s a pleasure to be recognized as a shipyard that invests in innovation and is brave with a forward-thinking view," says Amerio. "We have good teamwork with Volvo Penta. We can get accurate data on the engine system and obtain the maximum out of the boat with our hull and their IPS."

"IPS is great for superyachts. Clients like this system because it has reduced fuel consumption, reduced vibration or noise, and it’s easy to maneuver in tight marinas. Sometimes the owner wants to drive the boat by himself, and with IPS and the joystick, he can do this. It’s impressive to be able to drive a big boat like this."

The Italian brand will be displaying the full line-up of its vessels powered by Volvo Penta IPS, at the prestigious yachting show in Cannes: the Amer Unique, Amer Cento and a 94ft yacht. A 120ft yacht by Amer, powered by Volvo Penta quadruple D13-IPS1350, is also underway, and the Italian boat-builder will be revealing details of the project at Cannes.

Amerio adds: "We have a long-term history and strategic collaboration with Volvo Penta. They are a trusted global brand with good aftersales care. Customers appreciate that IPS is an integrated engine and propulsion system, it is easier to service and more convenient to have one supplier. We will keep moving forwards with Volvo Penta as we’re going in the right direction. It’s a great achievement."

Revolutionizing the marine industry

Volvo Penta IPS was a revolution in marine technology when it was first launched in 2005, and the company has continually upgraded it to offer more power and enhanced capabilities to customers. The system’s innovative design has forward-facing, twin counter-rotating propellers that sit below the water for incredible grip. With individually steerable pods, it provides superior handling, performance and fuel consumption, and lower emissions and noise, than a traditional inboard shaft installation.

"We are seeing once again, the incredible fruits of the relationship between Volvo Penta and Amer Yachts, with the amazing Unique vessel," says Nicola Pomi, marine sales manager at Volvo Penta for Italy and Spain. "The success of the Amer Cento last year and of the 94-foot yacht that Amer produced previously with IPS, shows the synergy we have in creating innovative products and beautiful design, that customers love. It will be interesting to see how far we can go together."

Amer Yachts will be at the Cannes Yachting Festival at Jetee 004 and Jetee 130. Volvo Penta will be at the festival from September 12-17, at Jetee 173.