The Grand Soleil Blue is the shipyard’s first true weekender
As many owners will attest, a yacht is both a prized possession and a logistical challenge. While the joys of being out on water (as well as the pride of ownership) are undeniable, a leisurely cruise often demands time, planning, and a crew on board. As a result, even the most beloved vessels can sit idle more often than they sail.
The Grand Soleil Blue, the latest vessel launched by Grand Soleil Yachts, speaks to that reality. Measuring just shy of 10 metres, the vessel is the smallest yacht the shipyard has ever produced, and the first designed specifically as a weekender. While it’s certainly not intended to replace a long-range cruiser, yachtsmen eager to set sail could find the vessel a more available companion for a quick getaway during short windows of time.
“The GS Blue represents the beginning of a new concept within the Grand Soleil range: a line that is agile, sustainable, fun, highly liveable, and designed for more immediate and flexible use,” says Gigi Servidati, chairman of Cantiere del Pardo, the Italian company that owns the Grand Soleil brand. “At the heart of the project lies a dual intent: to simplify access to sailing for a sophisticated and demanding audience with limited time, by offering a boat that is always ready to sail.”
From the outset, the GS Blue appears to have been designed for simplicity. The hull, by Matteo Polli, is shaped to deliver performance across a range of conditions without needing constant attention. Upwind speeds of 6 to 8 knots are achievable in moderate breeze, and on a reach, the boat can comfortably exceed 10 knots. The rig, featuring a square-top main and a choice of self-tacking jib or genoa, balances power and ease of handling. With push-button electric winches, a clean deck layout, and all key controls within reach of the helm, the Blue is well-suited to solo or shorthanded sailing.
The interior—meanwhile—designed by Nauta, is compact but carefully arranged. The layout works well for two, but can sleep four using the convertible saloon. Despite its size, the shipyard has managed to fit in a galley, a proper heads compartment, and storage that’s lightweight and efficient.
The GS Blue also reflects Grand Soleil’s growing interest in sustainable production. Owners have the option of a hull built using recyclable Elium resin, along with a polyethylene terephthalate core derived from post-consumer waste. There’s an option for electric propulsion via a 6kW pod motor, offering quiet, low-impact motoring for 30 to 60 nautical miles depending on configuration.
