Italian shipyard Tankoa Yachts has celebrated the launch of its latest custom masterpiece, the 51.5-metre T52 Vitruvius, now officially named Spirit. The highly bespoke superyacht entered the water on 11 July at the shipyard’s facilities in Genoa, marking another milestone for one of Italy’s leading luxury yacht builders.
The launch ceremony brought together the yacht’s Canadian owner, invited guests, Tankoa’s management team and the skilled craftsmen responsible for bringing the project to life.
A Fully Custom Collaboration
Previously known as Project Secret, Spirit was commissioned in 2022 by a Canadian client introduced by Albert McIlroy of Optimusnavis.
The project is the result of a close collaboration between Tankoa Yachts, renowned British design studio Vitruvius Yachts, led by Philippe Briand and Veerle Battiau, who created both the naval architecture and exterior styling, while the elegant interiors have been designed by Italian studio FM Architettura.
With construction now entering its final phase, the yacht will undergo sea trials and technical testing before being delivered later this year.
Designed Around Wellness and Connection to the Sea
At the heart of Spirit is a philosophy focused on wellbeing, privacy and seamless indoor-outdoor living.
The yacht’s standout feature is an expansive wellness beach club, designed as a private retreat where owners and guests can enjoy a fully equipped gym and spa while remaining closely connected to the surrounding sea.
The beach club opens directly onto a generous aft terrace featuring:
- A large wellness and fitness area
- A stern plunge pool
- Fold-down side platforms
- Direct access to the water
The result is an inviting space dedicated to relaxation, fitness and entertaining.
Bright Contemporary Interiors
While the yacht’s interiors remain private, Tankoa describes them as calm, refined and centred on natural living.
Designed by FM Architettura, the interior concept combines:
- Natural materials
- Soft textures
- Elegant understated detailing
- Open architectural spaces
- Abundant natural light
Large full-height windows run along the yacht’s profile, while an innovative glazed stern door with fixed glass panels creates uninterrupted panoramic views and strengthens the connection between interior and exterior spaces.
Accommodation is provided for 12 guests across six luxurious cabins, while nine crew members are housed in five crew cabins, ensuring exceptional service onboard.
Hybrid Technology Meets Comfort
Beyond her elegant appearance, Spirit incorporates advanced engineering solutions designed for efficiency and comfort.
The yacht is equipped with a full hybrid propulsion system developed by E-motion, allowing for quieter and more environmentally conscious cruising.
Performance figures include:
- Top speed: 17 knots
- Cruising speed: 15 knots
To further enhance onboard comfort, van Cappellen Consultancy provided specialist noise and vibration consultancy, ensuring exceptionally low sound levels throughout the yacht while underway.
A Showcase of Tankoa’s Bespoke Expertise
Commenting on the launch, Vincenzo Poerio, CEO of Tankoa Yachts, highlighted the collaborative nature of the project.
“A launch is always such a special moment. It is the culmination of many years of hard work, and it is a privilege to share this experience with our clients and everyone involved in her construction. Spirit perfectly demonstrates Tankoa’s ability to transform an ambitious, highly bespoke vision into reality through exceptional craftsmanship and close collaboration.”
Ready for Delivery
With sea trials now underway, Spirit represents another significant achievement for Tankoa Yachts, showcasing the shipyard’s ability to deliver fully custom superyachts that combine elegant design, innovative hybrid technology and owner-focused living spaces.
Scheduled for delivery later this year, the T52 Vitruvius is set to become one of the most distinctive custom superyachts to join the global fleet, embodying a new approach to luxury centred on wellness, sustainability and life at sea.
