Yachting Art Magazine

It is a meeting of two worlds where high standards reign supreme: offshore sailing and motor racing. North Sails and Ferrari have formalised a strategic partnership around the Ferrari Hypersail project, an initiative that pushes the boundaries of performance, design and innovation. This collaboration is a natural fit, as both brands share the same philosophy: pushing the impossible and combining elegance with efficiency.

Ferrari Hypersail is a veritable floating laboratory. Designed to withstand the most extreme marine conditions, this exceptional monohull embodies Ferrari's desire to bring its pioneering spirit to the nautical world. ‘Ferrari Hypersail is a natural extension of Ferrari's DNA: daring to do the impossible and constantly pushing the boundaries,’ emphasises Matteo Lanzavecchia, CTO of the project.

Alongside him, North Sails, a global leader in sailmaking and member of the North Technology Group, is contributing its expertise to the project. Its decades of offshore racing victories and mastery of the latest generation of composite sails make it the ideal partner to turn this vision into reality.

The ambition is clear: to develop and test technical solutions at sea that combine the codes of cutting-edge automotive engineering and high-performance sailing, with a focus on both power and reliability.

The result of close collaboration between Ferrari, North Sails and Southern Spars, Hypersail incorporates spectacular engineering innovations, foremost among which is the ‘Engine Above Deck’ concept. This combines bold design with technical precision inherited from the motor racing circuit.

The rigging, developed by Southern Spars and Future Fibres, pushes the boundaries of lightness and strength, while the North Sails sails are based on the most advanced 3Di technology. The double-skin furling mainsail, designed specifically for the monohull, illustrates this quest for maximum efficiency in all sailing conditions.

‘This is a moment of great pride for the entire North Technology Group family,’ says Sam Watson, CEO of the group. ‘This partnership illustrates what we can achieve when experts from demanding disciplines combine their vision and know-how.’

Beyond the boat itself, North Sails is supporting the project as the exclusive supplier of technical sailing apparel. This equipment is designed as an extension of the boat: reliable, robust and tailored to withstand the most hostile environments.

Unveiled to the media on 19 September, the Team Collection embodies this philosophy. Its centrepiece, the Offshore jacket, is made from GORE-TEX Ocean Pro, a unique membrane that guarantees protection, breathability and lightness. TightWeave technology enhances durability, while 4DL panels provide increased waterproofing and resistance, essential for long voyages.

Another flagship piece of equipment is the inshore racing smock, designed for agility and versatility. Waterproof, breathable and ultra-lightweight, it is equally at home on coastal courses and offshore sailing. Its DuraSeal closures provide maximum protection while maintaining comfort and freedom of movement.

North Sails and Ferrari are not limiting their collaboration to the technical field. Inspired directly by sea trials, a Replica collection will be launched in autumn-winter 2026, aimed at the general public.

Designed as a bridge between performance and lifestyle, it combines innovative fabrics, precise design and advanced functionality. The must-have item is the GP Aero Jacket, already billed as the lightest racing jacket in the world. Its sleek design combines aerodynamics, breathability and waterproofing with a constant focus on elegance.

Another example is the Ferrari Hypersail softshell jacket, made from 92% recycled polyester and 8% spandex. It illustrates the two brands' shared commitment to sustainable and responsible performance. Water-repellent, windproof and breathable, it combines protection and comfort, in line with North Sails' technical expertise.