BOOTE EXCLUSIV: How long have you been working for Silent Yachts?
Fabrizio Iarrera: I started at Silent Yachts at the beginning of last year. I wanted to take on the challenge of supporting the company in its further development. The current shipyard is very different to the one I got to know in January 2023. It was the right decision for me to take on these hurdles. I have already worked for various companies that were in similar difficulties. My assignment at the Azimut Benetti Group in 2001 was very similar, as this was also a takeover of a family-owned company that was then to be financed by investors.
Where do you see the shipyard's strengths?
In my view, Silent Yachts has enormous potential, and this was already apparent in 2010. Silent Yachts offers a cutting-edge concept. We are working on an environmentally friendly project. Despite some challenges in the past, the concept makes ecological sense and offers a solution for customers who want to act responsibly. I think that our work could become the new standard in the market, like Tesla once did in the automotive industry.
What impact did the insolvency in spring have on Silent Yachts?
Thanks to Michael Said, one of our customers and a new investor, we were able to take over the shipyard during the insolvency. His commitment and contribution helped to speed up the process and ensure smooth production in Italy. We were able to strengthen our market presence through the takeover. Despite difficult times, we have experienced positive development so far - and our customers agree.
Will the yachts be delivered to customers as planned?
We work to a strict schedule. This involves both the boatbuilding team in the shipyards and the management. This ensures that we can deliver our new yachts as planned.
How many yachts are currently being built in Fano?
We have the material and the labour to deliver eight yachts by the end of next year. We are planning a big increase compared to the current portfolio. The launches of the first and second Silent 80 are also scheduled for next year.
How important is the German-speaking market for the company?
Many of our customers come from German-speaking regions, which are a central part of the company's history. The company was founded by a couple from Austria, so we have a strong connection to the DACH region. The next delivery will be to a German customer and the first Silent 80 as well.
What are your plans for the shipyard as Managing Director?
We have been working on restructuring since I joined the company. We must continue to be prepared to optimise production. Which we have done: We have switched to modular series production. This design shortens processes and makes them much more efficient.
What do your customers say about Silent Yachts?
We are a shipyard for people who value ecologically responsible travelling on the water. Anyone who has ever travelled across the sea in electric mode, whisper-quiet and without exhaust fumes, will appreciate our concept. Our goal of offering unique and customer-orientated solutions is the key to our success. The empathy and gratitude of our customers are irreplaceable and show that our business model is based on mutual respect and trust.
