The Sanlorenzo SL90 A stands as a triumph of modern Italian yacht design, particularly within the competitive sub-30-meter market. Introduced at the 2021 Cannes Festival as the “little sister” to the pioneering SL102 A, the SL90 A quickly found enduring popularity, with over ten units reported to be under construction, according to SYTIQ data. Measuring just under 28 meters, this vessel redefines expectations by delivering the spatial luxury and arrangement typically reserved for much larger superyachts. Its appeal lies in its audacious move away from traditional architecture, blending elegant exterior lines with a genuinely open, contemporary interior.
The Revolutionary Asymmetrical Layout
The genius of the SL90 A’s design, developed from a study by automotive designer Chris Bangle and yacht designer Bernardo Zuccon and his sister, is its asymmetrical layout. This innovative platform maximizes the main deck’s interior volume by eliminating the traditional portside deck, maintaining only a single passageway on the starboard side. This “half-wide body” configuration results in a significant increase of 10 square meters in the main salon, which represents a 10 to 15 percent greater internal volume than conventionally arranged superyachts of the same size.
The functional benefits of this spatial expansion are transformative. The absence of the side deck allows for the installation of full-height windows along the entire port side, which floods the main salon with natural light and creates a powerful, direct visual connection to the surrounding water. The exterior profile subtly integrates this design, as Sanlorenzo uses one-way glazing on the starboard side that matches the hull color to maintain a clean and symmetrical appearance.
Residential Luxury and Seamless Flow
The interior layout is meticulously designed to evoke a well-appointed private residence. High-end materials and domestic sourcing underscore Sanlorenzo’s commitment to Italian craftsmanship. For instance, Carrara marble is used in the bathrooms, sourced domestically near the Tuscan shipyard, and interiors are furnished by Minotti. The galley is equipped with Boffi Italia cabinetry and Gaggenau appliances. The layout’s flow is seamless; the main dining area transitions organically into the aft outdoor lounge, softening the boundary between inside and out.
Crucially, the asymmetrical design makes possible a main deck owner’s suite forward—an arrangement usually reserved for larger superyachts. This suite even includes private access to a forward-facing lounge at the bow. An open staircase with illuminated floating steps connects the main and flybridge decks, acting as a functional and visual centerpiece. Movement aboard is intuitive, with an unobstructed passage connecting the foredeck directly to the flybridge deck by running along the top of the owner’s suite and wheelhouse.
Amenities and Robust Performance
The commitment to liveability extends to the exterior, with a well-equipped flybridge deck featuring a wet bar, barbecue grill, sunpads, and an alfresco dining area, plus an optional forward jacuzzi. The SL90 A is flexible, accommodating up to eight overnight guests in four ensuite staterooms, including the main deck owner’s suite and three lower deck staterooms, with the possibility of adding another guest stateroom on the lower deck. Room is also included for a crew of three. Power comes from twin MAN V12 diesel engines, providing solid performance for a yacht of this scale. She reaches a top speed of 29 knots, cruises comfortably at 24 knots, and offers a range of 380 nautical miles.
The Sanlorenzo SL90 A is a series model that successfully delivers a high-level onboard experience that “punches well above its 28-meter waterline”. For those looking to acquire a Sanlorenzo SL90 A, FGI Yacht Group offers direct access to new build and pre-owned models.