ISA Viper 130 | A new 38.8-metre performance yacht

At 38.8 metres and with a top speed of 35 knots, the new ISA Viper 130 marks a new chapter for ISA Yachts, bringing high performance into a yacht conceived without compromising on space, comfort or the experience of life at sea.

The first unit of the Viper 130 has been presented by ISA Yachts, a brand of Palumbo Superyachts, as a GRP planing yacht reinforced with carbon fibre. At the heart of the project is a clear idea: performance can be integrated into a complete onboard experience, rather than existing purely as a measure of speed.

In its high-performance configuration, three MAN V12X engines, each delivering 2,200 hp, are combined with two MJP waterjets and a central MJP booster. The result is a top speed of 35 knots and a cruising speed of 30 knots. A standard version is also available with four 1,000 hp Volvo Penta IPS engines, delivering a top speed of 24 knots and a cruising speed of 20 knots.

The exterior design was developed by ISA Yachts in collaboration with Fulvio De Simoni, who also designed the interiors. Naval architecture was developed by ISA Yachts in collaboration with Studio Ing. Arnaboldi, with MJP contributing to the waterjet propulsion system.

The result is a yacht with a strong and immediately recognisable identity. Taut, dynamic lines communicate its performance character from the first glance, while the overall design places a strong emphasis on the relationship between the yacht and the sea.

A new relationship with the water

One of the defining features of the Viper 130 is its cockpit, organised across three distinct yet seamlessly connected levels.

At the lowest level, the aft beach area sits directly above the water and features a transformer that serves both as a bathing staircase and passerelle.

Two steps on either side lead to the second level, centred around a large aft-facing sunpad and a lounge furnished with built-in sofas and a Tribù coffee table. When the two side balconies are opened, the available surface expands further, transforming the aft section into a genuine terrace over the sea.

The third level is dedicated to outdoor dining, with a large table accommodating up to 10 guests. Here, the aft galley is combined with a bar and stools, creating a flexible environment that can adapt to different occasions.

A retractable privacy glass panel allows the galley to remain completely open for social occasions, show cooking and cocktail parties, or to be separated from guests when discreet service is required.

A staircase positioned beside the bar leads directly to the sun deck.

To maximise the interior volumes, access to the bow has been concentrated exclusively along the port side. This allows the forward area to become an additional independent guest space, with a Jacuzzi surrounded by sunpads and sofas, separated from the more social areas aft.

An interior shaped by blue

Inside, Fulvio De Simoni creates a contemporary and luminous environment defined by flowing lines and a carefully controlled palette.

Optical white transitions into light and deep blue, while black ash parquet flooring is paired with pearl-grey lacquered walls, titanium-effect surfaces and chrome metal details. Rubelli decorative wall coverings introduce texture, complemented by Marazzi marble details in Calacatta Extra, Sodalite Blu and Capraia.

On the main deck, a second bar leads into the main saloon. Large opening floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light and strengthen the visual connection with the outdoors.

The saloon is divided into two lounge areas, entirely furnished by Minotti. The result is an elegant yet informal environment, with a sense of fluidity that reflects the yacht's dynamic character.

Privacy below deck

Positioned amidships, the owner's cabin is conceived as a highly private and personal environment. A floating-effect bed, walk-in wardrobe, lounge area and vanity with a Minotti armchair are complemented by a double bathroom featuring a large central shower finished in Capraia marble.

The custom-made headboard is one of the cabin's most distinctive elements. Its three-dimensional wave-effect surface, enhanced by a titanium-metal finish, creates a sculptural focal point. Leather, wall coverings, smoked mirrors and steel come together in a layered composition of textures and reflections, while carefully designed lighting highlights the different surfaces.

The remaining four double cabins comprise two cabins with double beds and two with twin beds, one of which also includes a third Pullman berth. Across five cabins, the yacht can accommodate up to 11 guests.

A sun deck for every moment

Protected by a carbon-fibre hardtop, the sun deck is conceived as a private and versatile environment dedicated entirely to outdoor living.

Alongside the second helm station, the layout includes a large aft sunpad, a lounge area with Kettal sofas and Minotti armchairs, a spacious bar with stools and a Royal Botania dining table accommodating up to 10 guests, paired with Tribù chairs.

From morning cruising to long lunches and evening gatherings, the sun deck is designed to adapt to different moments throughout the day.

Access to the crew quarters is positioned within the galley, allowing discreet service routes to remain separate from those used by guests. The crew area includes a dedicated laundry room, crew mess and three en-suite cabins, accommodating up to six crew members.

The starboard side garage houses a 5-metre tender.

With the Viper 130, ISA Yachts demonstrates that performance does not have to be measured by speed alone. With a top speed of 35 knots, generous volumes and outdoor spaces more commonly associated with larger yachts, the Viper 130 turns performance into a way of experiencing life at sea.

Power, design and freedom form the three defining elements of the new Viper 130. A yacht created to move fast, but above all to make every moment on the water part of the experience.

The American owner was introduced to ISA Yachts by Zarpo Yachts.