Navan unveils larger C38 explorer at Cannes
Vittorio Bichucher, general manager of Navan. Image courtesy of Zella Compton
Brunswick’s Navan Boats has unveiled its C38 exploration boat at the Cannes Yachting Festival, marking the brand’s entry into the large exploration segment. The company has also confirmed that the S38 will follow in early 2027.
The Navan C38 is built around the yard’s patented T-step hull design and is produced through the brand’s dual-continent manufacturing network. Navan says the hull is designed to provide a smoother and more efficient ride at speed.
Speaking to MIN at Cannes Yachting Festival, Vittorio Bichucher, general manager of Navan Boats, says one of the notable aspects of the C38 is that its handling remains comparable to the brand’s smaller 30ft model.
“[There are] things that are absolutely incredible about the ride,” he says. “One is that it drives just like our 30ft does. So with twin 425s, we were hitting 49.6 knots with seven people aboard.
“So you get great fuel economy, [it’s a] great ride, very, very fast boat. Great interior space. I’m a metre 95 (6’3), and I can stand inside there.”
The Navan C38 accommodates four people. Navan says the interior has been designed to provide this accommodation while retaining exterior space.
The boat also marks Navan’s first partnership with Flexiteek for its flooring. Other features include a folding swim platform that extends the aft social area, while the centre console helm deck combines the helm position with space for guests. The modular aft section can be configured for different uses, including fishing, cruising or cooking.
‘Now is the time’ for boating
Bichucher also says Navan is seeing some customers take a different view of time spent on the water, particularly against a backdrop of climate change and economic uncertainty.
“Oh, yes, absolutely. I think that, you know, we’re seeing a lot of people actually just saying, ‘all right, the world is tough, you know, climate change, and the economy is not really so great.’ We see a lot of customers that are coming back and saying: ‘I want to go in the water; now is the time.'”
Bichucher says this increased interest in being outdoors is also reflected in some customers’ questions about waste management on board.
“I think customers want to feel connected to nature more than ever. And that means also being a good steward. And so I see a lot of customers asking us about, you know, do we have enough trash space on the boat so I can separate my recycling?”
Brenna Preisser, president of Brunswick Boat Group, says: “Navan has quickly established a distinctive voice in the exploration segment, strengthened by the launch of the C38. This is the next chapter which we are proud to share at Cannes, celebrating the spirit of adventure which transcends borders.”
Navan has also confirmed that the S38 will join its line-up in early 2027. Further details about the model’s design and market positioning are expected in the coming months.
