Grand Soleil Yachts unveils all the details of Bianca II, the first unit of the Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise and the latest addition to the Plus line.
Following a private preview reserved for owners during the Grand Soleil Cup 2026, the first GS Plus 80 LC is now preparing to meet the wider public at the Cannes Yachting Festival (8–13 September 2026), marking the beginning of its international debut. The GS Plus 80 Long Cruise represents a key addition to the PLUS line dedicated to yachts above 60 feet, bringing together advanced design, construction expertise and a close dialogue with the owner in a project conceived to shape the future evolution of the line.
The strength of a dedicated team and a fully in-house build process
With an overall length of 26.20 meters and a maximum beam of 6.60 meters, the Grand Soleil 80 Long Cruise is designed for discerning sailors who desire extended voyages in total comfort and safety. At the same time, it retains the performance characteristics that are an integral part of the Grand Soleil identity. The signature design elements that propelled the success of the smaller models are carried forward, thanks to the same expert team behind the project. The concept is conceived by Cantiere del Pardo, naval architecture is led by Matteo Polli, while Nauta is responsible for the yacht’s exterior styling, interior design, and layout.
“In true Grand Soleil tradition, the GS Plus 80 LC has been built entirely in-house, from lamination through to launch,” explains Franco Corazza, project manager of the Plusline. “This approach allows stricter quality control and promotes greater integration between construction and onboard systems, enabling us to fully meet the requirements of our owners.”
Construction is based on a composite sandwich structure using epoxy-based vinylester resin combined with vacuum infusion lamination techniques, with extensive use of carbon fibre reinforcements in high-load areas. One distinctive aspect is the “in-place” construction approach, whereby every structural element is engineered and adapted according to the final layout. On board Bianca II, the bulkheads have been designed integrating carbon piping for cable routing, a solution that allows slimmer and cleaner finishes while improving accessibility and onboard systems management.
Naval Architecture
The naval architecture of the Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise is once again entrusted to Matteo Polli, a renowned Italian designer with extensive expertise in racing yacht design. The hull of the GS Plus 80 LC features narrow bow sections that ensure a smooth entry into the water, even in challenging sea conditions. These lines gradually widen aft, maximizing internal volume and livability below deck. This balanced approach not only enhances onboard comfort but also delivers exceptional performance under sail, thanks to an efficient and well-balanced hull design. One of the standout features of the Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise is the option for twin rudders, paired on Bianca II with a telescopic keel, offering a variable draft from 2.90 meters to 4.40 meters. This configuration is ideal for larger yachts, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Twin rudders provide superior control, even when the yacht heels, ensuring precise handling and immediate response at the helm. Additionally, this setup reduces draft compared to a traditional single rudder, allowing access to shallower ports and anchorages without compromising performance. For those who prefer a more traditional setup, the Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise is also available in a single-rudder version, paired with keels of varying depths, ranging from 2.40 meters to deeper options, to suit different sailing needs.
“Designing the hull lines for an 80-foot yacht is a challenging task, made even more complex by the variety of systems configurations an owner might choose,” explains Matteo Polli. “For the Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise, we focused on keeping the center of gravity as low as possible, optimizing the placement of all major systems. The hull was engineered to provide stability both at full load, with tanks and systems at maximum capacity, and in lighter configurations.”
Sail plan and deck handling
The sail plan of the Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise is designed for versatility and high performance. A carbon mast and boom form the technological core of the rig, delivering both lightness and structural rigidity to maximize sailing performance. The V-boom simplifies mainsail handling, making maneuvers safer and easier, even with a reduced crew. Rod rigging was selected for its ideal combination of strength and durability. The fixed bowsprit is configured for two gennakers: a traditional nylon gennaker for light-air conditions and a furling gennaker on an anti-torsion cable, attached to the anchor roller fitting on the bowsprit. The yacht can also be fitted with a staysail and an optional inner forestay for a storm jib configuration. This adaptable sail plan makes the GS Plus 80 LC ready to harness all wind conditions, from gentle breezes to heavy weather, fully embodying the spirit of a true bluewater yacht conceived for long-range ocean sailing.
All running rigging is led aft, freeing the central cockpit and clearly separating operational areas from convivial living spaces. The lateral wing islands designed by Nauta alongside the twin helm stations provide ergonomic seating conceivedfor long passages while ensuring optimal visibility over the jib telltales, contributing to constant control even in demanding conditions. The overall deck layout allows safe yacht handling without compromising the usability of the exterior spaces. The cockpit perimeter sofas further enhance the sense of openness towards the sea, creating a seamless connection between yacht and horizon, both underway and at anchor.
Integrated systems architecture and energy platform
One of the most innovative features aboard the first GS Plus 80 LC is the fully integrated hydraulic system managing all deck operations. Winches, mast systems, telescopic keel and sail plan adjustments are powered through a single centralized hydraulic circuit, eliminating dedicated electrical users. This solution improves efficiency, reduces overall weight and contributes to a cleaner deck layout. At the core of the yacht’s energy architecture is the hybrid platform developed by Torqeedo, integrating both propulsion and hotel loads management. The electric propulsion system is powered by two 40 kWh battery packs (80 kWh total), also supplying onboard services through converters and inverters. In long-range configuration, two 45 kW generators ensure battery charging capability and extended cruising autonomy, while a dedicated buffer battery pack guarantees continuity for essential onboard services.
Style, comfort and practicality
The elegant raised coachroof of the Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise clearly reflects the family feeling that connects this new flagship to its predecessors, the GS Plus 65 LC and GS Plus 72 LC. This configuration is not only an aesthetic feature but a crucial design element that enhances natural light below deck. Thanks to large windows offering 270-degree views, this design also provides greater interior height. From a technical perspective, this solution has allowed the saloon sole to be raised, creating a substantial technical void beneath it. Next-generation electrical and mechanical systems, specifically engineered to minimize consumption and optimize resource management, can therefore be relocated in this area, freeing valuable space elsewhere onboard. Raising the saloon level also enhances circulation between the interior and exterior, making movement comfortable even while underway. Below deck, the long-standing collaboration between Grand Soleil Yachts and Nauta continues to produce exceptional results. The interiors of the Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise combine stylish design with comfort and practicality—key features for a yacht intended for long-distance cruising. The layout ensures clear separation between guest and crew areas, providing maximum privacy for everyone on board.
“An 80-foot yacht is among the most demanding sizes to design,” explains Massimo Gino, CEO and Co-Founder of Nauta. “We’ve meticulously optimized the freeboard heights, interior spaces, and cabin sizes, integrating all necessary equipment and accessories in every area—whether on deck, in the sail locker, in the cabins, or the galley. An 80-foot yacht must encompass the qualities, functions, and features typically found on yachts ranging from 95 to 100 feet.”
This complexity is reflected in the interior design, where the layout of Bianca II includes four guest cabins and two crew cabins. An alternative layout is also available, with three guest cabins and two crew cabins. In both configurations, the master cabin, located forward, features a forward-facing walk-around bed and an en-suite bathroom forward of the cabin. The guest cabins can be configured as spacious doubles or twin single beds, which can also be transformed into Pullman-style beds to increase sleeping capacity as needed. The true focal point of life aboard the GS Plus 80 LC is the large and luminous saloon, where the dining area to starboard faces an L-shaped sofa to port. From these generous seating areas, guests can enjoy panoramic views through the raised coachroof glazing.
At the aft of the yacht, there is a double crew cabin (with a second cabin located forward) and the large, well-equipped galley, along with the chart table. This entire area has a dedicated access that allows the crew to move around without needing to pass through the saloon or any of the owner’s or guests’ shared spaces. Bianca II does not feature a tender garage, allowing the space to be used for other technical purposes, such as installing a freezer or a washing machine, at the owner’s request. The owner has the option to choose from a range of materials, colors, and finishes to create a living environment that perfectly reflects their tastes and preferences. This flexibility is one of the defining features of the Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise. Bianca II features warm oak furnishings, chosen for its inviting tone and ability to imbue the space with a contemporary atmosphere. The bulkheads will be covered in high-quality textiles, offering a refined alternative to traditional paneling. This choice not only enhances the aesthetics but also contributes to creating a more elegant and comfortable onboard environment.
A new flagship with a clear vision
The Grand Soleil Plus 80 Long Cruise is not simply the largest model in the range, but an important step toward a precise vision. In a market increasingly oriented toward motor yachts, Cantiere del Pardo continues to invest in sailing, developing efficient and highly customizable yachts conceived to face every sea in safety and comfort, while always remaining faithful to the brand’s DNA.
