Yachting Art Magazine

Unveiled for the first time at the boot Düsseldorf 2026 trade fair, the Marcopolo MP12 marks the official entry of the Marcopolo Adventure Yachts brand into the yachting market. Following a successful launch phase with industry professionals and the public, this 12.70-metre model is now entering its operational phase at sea, a key stage in validating the technical and design choices that have shaped its development.

The Marcopolo Adventure Yachts brand forms part of the strategy of the Italian Aschenez Group, led by Rosario Alcaro. This group has already established itself in the pleasure craft sector with the Invictus Yacht and Capoforte brands, positioned respectively in the premium and more accessible segments. With Marcopolo, Aschenez is exploring a new positioning, centred on so-called ‘adventure’ boats, responding to a shift in demand towards versatile vessels capable of adapting to a variety of uses. This direction is part of a broader market trend, where shipyards are seeking to diversify their offering in response to changing customer expectations, particularly regarding modularity, performance and the on-board experience.

The MP12 stands out above all for its versatility. The concept is based on a modular design that allows the boat’s layout to be adapted to different configurations, notably switching between an open-plan layout and a more enclosed cruising configuration.

This approach is still relatively uncommon in this market segment, which is traditionally structured around fixed models. It responds to an economic and functional rationale: extending the boat’s lifecycle, maintaining its value on the secondary market and offering owners flexibility of use.

In a context where investing in a boat represents a significant commitment, this modularity is a key differentiating factor, particularly for clients wishing to adapt their vessel to evolving uses, ranging from day trips to longer cruises.

The design of the MP12, entrusted to the Roberto Delfanti Design Lab, reflects this desire to offer a versatile experience. The main deck is structured around a modular living space, incorporating fold-down side terraces that allow the cockpit to be extended.

This configuration promotes flexible use of the space, suited to different scenarios: sailing, anchoring or hosting guests. The large windows in the cruising version enhance the continuity between interior and exterior, whilst improving the light levels on board.

At the bow, the deck offers an extended relaxation area, with sunbathing space and seating, whilst the interior features a classic yet optimised layout: a double cabin at the bow, additional berths amidships and modular living spaces.

This layout strikes a balance between comfort and efficient use of space in a mid-sized boat.

Technically, the MP12 features outboard propulsion, with a configuration capable of accommodating up to three 450-horsepower engines. This choice reflects a growing market trend, where outboard engines are gaining popularity due to their ease of maintenance, modularity and performance.

The triple-step hull is another key structural feature. This type of hull is designed to reduce hydrodynamic drag, improve energy efficiency and enable high speeds, reaching up to around 40 knots under optimal conditions.

The use of advanced simulation tools, notably computational fluid dynamics (CFD), reflects the growing integration of digital technologies into naval design. These methods enable performance to be optimised whilst reducing the need for physical testing phases.

The MP12 also incorporates materials from other industries, notably the automotive and aerospace sectors. The use of recycled PET for certain structures, cellular polypropylene for bulkheads, and carbon fibre for the upper sections serves a dual purpose: weight reduction and improved energy efficiency.

These technical choices reflect a shift in the sector towards lighter solutions that are potentially less harmful to the environment. However, their widespread adoption remains subject to cost and industrialisation challenges.

Furthermore, certain finishing materials, such as technical textiles inspired by motor racing or composite coverings incorporating cork, contribute to improved thermal comfort and durability.

The launch of the MP12 comes against a backdrop of transformation in the marine market. Following several years of sustained growth, particularly post-pandemic, the sector is undergoing a phase of normalisation, with more selective demand and more diverse customer expectations.

In this context, shipyards are seeking to differentiate themselves through innovation, moving upmarket and diversifying uses. The ‘adventure’ or multi-purpose boat segment is part of this trend, sitting at the crossroads between traditional recreational boating and new, more exploratory forms of navigation.

The MP12 is therefore positioned to attract customers seeking vessels capable of serving multiple purposes, whilst incorporating high standards of comfort and performance.