Hot fifty – Wally Yachts

If you ask any sailing fanatic to name the best in yacht design, chances are they’ll cite Wally Yachts.

Based in Monte Carlo in the principality of Monaco, Wally Yachts has designed and manufactured a range of high-end sailing yachts since it was founded by Italian businessman Luca Bassani in 1994. More recently, it has introduced motor yachts to its repertoire, most famously the 118 WallyPower yacht, which appeared in the movie The Island, starring Scarlett Johansson and Ewan McGregor.

Its sailing yachts include the Wally 80, with a hull designed by Farr Yacht Design and interiors by the in-house team WallyDesign with Lazzarini Pickering Architects. But many of its models in all classes are custom-made for their wealthy owners.

An active participant in yacht racing as well as a regular at international boat shows, the company has instituted the Wally Yacht Class. Its programme for 2008 includes The Pirelli Trophy at Portofino in Italy, the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Voile de Saint Tropez.