Until now, West Navaltech has only built aluminium and steel workboats, but now the company is taking a step into the leisure market. With the new brand Forte Yachts and the 14.3 metre long day cruiser Forte 47, the company from Ameglia near La Spezia wants to gain a foothold.
The Forte 47 benefits directly from the shipyard's many years of experience in building workboats. In recent years, West Navaltech has made a name for itself as a manufacturer of fireboats, passenger boats and specialised vessels such as an all-electric catamaran. This technical expertise is now being channelled into the construction of leisure boats.
"We wanted to separate our production of work boats from the leisure sector, but at the same time benefit from the synergies," explains Livio Franchini, technical director and co-owner of West Navaltech. The shipyard has 1,300 square metres of covered production space and a further 1,800 square metres of outdoor space at the Ameglia site.
The boat offers two full cabins with headroom and two separate bathrooms. The interior height is over two metres throughout, making it much more comfortable below deck. Steps have been omitted to maximise freedom of movement on board.
The hull was specially developed by Umberto Tagliavini (Marine Design) for good seaworthiness. The boat should also be able to cover longer distances such as from Monte Carlo to Porto Cervo or from Miami to the Bahamas without any problems
The Forte 47 is available with both outboard and inboard engines. Depending on the drive concept selected, there are slight differences in the layout in order to optimise the use of space.
The boat is primarily designed for day trips and weekend getaways, but can also serve as an elegant tender for larger yachts. The modular stern area can be customised according to usage requirements. The official presentation of the Forte 47 is planned for the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025.
In recent years, West Navaltech has established itself as a specialist in aluminium and steel workboats. The company builds vessels between 14 and 50 metres in length and also supplies aluminium hulls, superstructures and special components such as watertight doors to leading shipyards. With Forte Yachts, the company is now expanding its portfolio into the leisure market.
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