5 secrets of success of ISA Yachts

December 31, 2023

14 minute read

Welcome aboard as we set sail into the world of ISA Yachts, a distinguished shipyard that has charted a course of remarkable success since its establishment at the dawn of the twenty-first century. Over the past two decades, ISA Yachts has not only weathered the storm of economic challenges during its formative years but has also emerged as a beacon of excellence in the luxury yachting industry.

Photo Credit to Alalya Yacht Charter

Founded in 2001, ISA Yachts has navigated the seas of innovation and craftsmanship for decades, proudly launching over 40 exquisite yachts from its state-of-the-art facility. In 2016, a new chapter unfolded when the renowned Palumbo Group acquired ISA Yachts, solidifying its position as a key player in the Palumbo luxury yachting arm.

What sets ISA Yachts apart is its unwavering commitment to customization, a cornerstone of its competitive edge. The shipyard’s tailor-made strategy allows clients to embark on a journey of personalization, transforming their visions into reality. At the heart of this capability lies a team of highly skilled individuals—craftsmen, engineers, technicians, designers, and more—who collectively contribute to the meticulous attention to detail that defines ISA Yachts.

This team, driven by passion and expertise, empowers ISA Yachts to work at maximum pace without compromising on the delivery of high-quality yachts. The result is a fleet that not only meets but exceeds the unique visions of its customers. ISA Yachts has earned a well-deserved reputation as a “one to watch” in both the sales and charter market, a testament to its careful blend of care, attentiveness, and a relentless pursuit of perfection.

Join us as we explore the riveting world of ISA Yachts, where every vessel is a masterpiece, and every journey is a testament to the artistry and dedication that define this exceptional shipyard.

The Philosophy of ISA Yachts

ISA Shipyard’s philosophy is deeply rooted in the commitment to excellence, innovation, and uncompromising quality. At the heart of their approach is the belief that controlling every aspect of the yacht-building process is essential to delivering unparalleled results. By handling the creation of crucial elements such as furniture, amenities, and decorative features in-house, ISA ensures a level of craftsmanship that surpasses industry standards.

The decision to keep most of the production in-house is not merely a matter of convenience; it reflects a profound dedication to quality assurance. ISA’s adherence to a rigorous quality inspection guarantees that each construction meets the highest standards. This meticulous commitment is a testament to the shipyard’s unwavering goal of delivering yachts that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound and reliable.

Recognizing the precious nature of time in the construction of a yacht, ISA’s management team adopts a transparent and communicative approach. Project managers keep all stakeholders, including the future owners, informed at every step of the journey toward the maiden voyage. This commitment to open communication fosters a collaborative environment where clients are actively involved in the process, ensuring that the final product aligns seamlessly with their vision.

alalya yacht charter flowers in the saloon
ISA’s pursuit of continuous improvement is a cornerstone of their philosophy. The shipyard is dedicated to finding new ways to elevate its production standards and make its yachts stand out in a competitive market – Alalya yacht charter

By embracing cutting-edge technology and staying at the forefront of advancements in yacht building, ISA consistently pushes the boundaries of what is achievable.

ISA Yachts positions itself as a global leader in the construction of superyachts and megayachts, focusing on forward-thinking design and the use of superior-quality materials. Each ISA superyacht is a unique embodiment of its owner’s vision, crafted with the most advanced technology available. The shipyard’s commitment to excellence goes beyond meeting expectations; it involves exceeding them.

ISA Yachts has become synonymous with style, high-end construction, and a pioneering spirit in yacht building. The shipyard’s ability to consistently challenge conventions and successfully innovate has earned it a distinguished reputation in the industry. As an icon of excellence, ISA Yachts continues to shape the future of superyacht construction, setting new standards and redefining the possibilities within the world of luxury yachting.

History of ISA Yachts

The history of ISA, or International Shipyards of Ancona, is a tale of innovation, craftsmanship, and a commitment to excellence in the world of luxury yacht manufacturing. Nestled in the picturesque city of Ancona, Italy, ISA has earned its place among the elite shipyards globally.

The roots of ISA trace back to its establishment in 2001, a response to the surging demand from an ever-growing customer base seeking top-tier luxury yachts. Despite its relatively young age, ISA quickly made a name for itself by adhering to the high standards set by the rich maritime tradition and history of Italian shipbuilding.

One of the key factors that distinguish ISA is its team of over 150 skilled professionals, including craftsmen, artisans, architects, engineers, and designers. This dedicated workforce plays a pivotal role in ensuring that each yacht leaving the ISA shipyards reflects the utmost quality and attention to detail.

ISA yachts have become synonymous with opulence and innovation. The shipyard specializes in crafting luxury yachts ranging from 44 to 80 meters, positioning itself as one of the most advanced shipyards globally. Between 2001 and 2013, ISA achieved an extraordinary milestone by delivering nearly 30 megayachts—a remarkable accomplishment for a shipyard of its youth.

alalya yacht charter cushions on the sundeck
Alalya Towels on the Sundeck Sun Pads

In 2016, ISA entered a new chapter in its history when it became a subsidiary of the Palumbo Superyachts group, joining other prestigious shipyards like Columbus, Mondomarine, Extra, and Palumbo SY. This strategic move allowed ISA to leverage the collective expertise and resources of the group while maintaining its unique identity.

The ISA superyachts are renowned for blending cutting-edge technologies with the finest materials, embodying a forward-thinking and luxurious ethos. Notable vessels in the ISA fleet include the massive 217’10’’ (66.4m) OTKO, launched in 2014, the visually striking 179’4’’ (54.65m) M/Y FOREVER ONE , also launched in the same year, and the sleek new 141’1’’ (43m) M/Y AGORA III – the inaugural member of the Alloy 43-metre series.

As part of the Palumbo Superyachts group, ISA continues to advance as its distinctive brand; the shipyard plays a crucial role as one of the five key shipyards within the group, contributing to the legacy of Palumbo Superyachts and solidifying its position as a premier name in the luxury yacht industry. With ongoing projects in development, ISA Yachts stands poised to shape the future of superyacht design and construction within the esteemed Palumbo family.

Types of ISA Yachts

ISA Yachts first specialized in the construction of sailing yachts, which later evolved into building motor yachts, which were fully- or semi-costume.
Their hull configuration incorporated planing yachts, but also yachts with displacement and semi-displacement yachts.

The range of the yachts produced by ISA starts with 29-meter-long yachts and follows until 80-meter yachts, with plans to extend the range to 100 meters and beyond.

GRP (or glass-reinforced plastic) is another word for fiberglass, which is a material that is ofent used in construction, alongside aluminium and steel.
ISA is one of the leading manufacturers of luxury superyachts in the world, thanks to their forward-thinking attitude and substantial investments into yacht innovations, particularly considering hull architecture, interior design and leisurely amenities.

salt yacht charter details in the suite
Salt yacht charter details in the suite

Every yacht is built according to the wishes and specifications given by the future owner, and ISA prides itself in using only the finest materials and work practices to produce exclusive vessels, that are the pinnacle of superyacht design and construction.

Every ISA superyacht is uniquely designed to its owner’s briefs and is built using the highest technology, the best quality materials, and the finest furnishings and finishes.

ISA represents an icon of excellence, which is possible only due to their unyielding perseverance in constructing only the best luxury yachts in the world.
One of the biggest yachts built by ISA is the fantastic OKTO, a 66-meter yacht delived in 2014, with interior designs done by the late Alberto Pinto. The same year, ISA unveiled the 54-meter FOREVER ONE, which clearly demonstrated the skill and craftsmanship potential of the ISA shipyard.

Notable ISA Yachts

One of the most notable ISA-made yachts in SuperYachts Croatia`s catalogue is ALALYA.

This yacht brings to her guests a dash of Italian flair to go great with their holiday, ensuring there is plenty of luxurius amenities, elegant design and comfortable furniture.

ALALYA, a masterpiece among ISA-built yachts, stands out prominently in the SuperYachts Croatia catalogue, embodying the epitome of Italian luxury and design.

Alalya Yacht Charter starboard side view
Starboard Side View – Superyacht Alalya

The yacht’s exterior showcases a harmonious blend of steel for the hull and aluminum for the superstructure, a combination that not only fortifies the vessel but also contributes to its impressive speed. Powered by 4730 HP engines, equivalent to 11 Teslas type 3, ALALYA can gracefully cruise at 14 knots, reaching a top speed of 17 knots.

ALALYA’s design philosophy, curated by Cristiano Gatto, reflects a contemporary approach that emphasizes beauty, functionality, and spatial harmony. Gatto’s artistic touch is evident throughout the yacht’s interior, with subtle nods to the golden ratio, showcasing meticulous attention to aesthetic ratios in spatial design.

This deliberate infusion of emotions into technical specifications is a testament to the Gatto team’s commitment to turning a soulless object into a living, breathing work of art.

alalya yacht charter main deck saloon
Alalya Main Deck – Large Salon Area with Three Sofas & a Dining Table Further Front

The yacht’s luxurious amenities, elegant design, and comfortable furnishings create an ambience that captivates guests from the moment they step aboard. Accommodating up to 12 guests in 6 cabins, ALALYA ensures an intimate and personalized experience. The crew, a cohesive group with extensive experience gained through numerous charter seasons, is the driving force behind the tailored holiday experience that defines a successful yacht vacation.

ALALYA’s crew, knowledgeable and passionate about Croatia’s rich culture and traditions, serves as invaluable guides. Beyond offering the pleasures of a luxury yacht, they open doors to the untouched oceans, pristine nature, and the cultural treasures of Croatia. Guests are encouraged to explore port towns, meet locals, and immerse themselves in the authentic experiences curated by the native crew.

A week aboard ALALYA promises not just a vacation but a transformative journey. Guests emerge with a profound connection to the Croatian Adriatic Sea and its islands, forever changed by the positive atmosphere and genuine care provided by the loving crew.

Alalya Yacht Charter top-down view of the aft
Alalya yacht Top-Down View – Swimming Platform & Bridge Deck Aft, Tender by the platform & Two Fold-out Balconies on each side

ALALYA, exclusively built for charter, transcends its competition with over-the-top performance, a sophisticated design, and a robust hull structure. The vessel’s grandeur is evident from the moment guests step onto the alfresco aft main deck, reminiscent of an Imperial Russian Palace foyer.

ALALYA’s opulence, combined with the expertise of Walter Franchini and Cristiano Gatto, ensures a unique and unforgettable experience, where every detail is crafted to perfection.

Value of ISA Yachts

ISA Yachts, with a strategic network of five shipyards strategically positioned across the Mediterranean, epitomizes the pinnacle of yacht construction and maintenance. The Napoli, Ancona, Malta, Savona, and Marsiglia shipyards, coupled with a dedicated Guadeloupe Service Point for the American continent, collectively form the backbone of ISA’s commitment to delivering unparalleled service.

Each ISA shipyard is strategically located to ensure optimal maintenance and refit services while adhering to stringent construction schedules. This network facilitates efficient operations and reinforces ISA’s dedication to providing exceptional service throughout the Mediterranean region. The Guadeloupe Service Point extends this commitment to the American continent, exemplifying ISA’s global reach.

The heart of ISA’s operations resides in Ancona, renowned as the cradle of Mediterranean maritime culture and construction. Boasting nearly 40,000 square meters of meticulously designed work surface, including hangars and industrial buildings designated for offices, showrooms, and development departments, Ancona stands as the epicenter of innovation and craftsmanship.

ISA Yachts employs the most innovative and up-to-date technology, enabling the construction of megayachts up to an impressive 120 meters in length. This technological prowess underscores ISA’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and engineering, setting new standards for luxury and performance in the world of yachting.

Experience ISA yachts through the lens of SuperYachts Croatia

The ISA Shipyard in Ancona, Italy, stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of yacht construction, particularly exemplified by the extraordinary creation that is the ALALYA superyacht. Situated strategically on Italy’s eastern coast, the shipyard capitalizes on the ideal geographical proximity to the breathtaking Croatian Adriatic Sea.

This location provides the perfect canvas for yachts born in Ancona to embark on their maiden voyages, offering an unrivalled experience in one of the most coveted yacht charter destinations globally.

Ancona touches the Adriatic Sea, whose allure lies not only in its crystal-clear waters but also in the vibrant marine life that transforms it into a living aquarium. The turquoise hues of the sea, complemented by the golden shimmer of the sun and the lush greenery of the nearby Croatian islands, create a mesmerizing backdrop for unforgettable yacht charter holidays.

It is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of nature, forging memories that resonate for a lifetime.

Alalya Yacht Charter cruising in Croatia aerial view, ISA yachts
Superyacht Alalya Cruising at Full Speed in Croatia

ALALYA, a masterpiece from ISA Shipyard, epitomizes the fusion of meticulous construction, functional prowess, and a profound understanding of aesthetic principles.

And combined with the potential of the Adriatic Sea, and particularly its Croatian side, both ALALAYA and ISA Shipyard contribute to the creation of unique charter memories of SuperYachts Croatia`s guests.

As you consider your next yacht charter holiday, the invitation to experience this fusion of technical prowess and emotional resonance awaits – contact your local Superyachts Croatia broker and embark on a journey to discover the soulful elegance of ALALYA in the Adriatic paradise.