Presented during the 66th Genoa International Boat Show, the recognition is one of three Special Awards selected by the jury at the seventh edition of the Design Innovation Awards. The win follows the Icona 70's Best Exterior Design award at the World Yachts Trophies 2026.
Innovation recognised in Genoa
Promoted by Confindustria Nautica and the Genoa International Boat Show 2026, the Design Innovation Award recognised the approach behind the inaugural project from Icona inspired by Mangusta. Created by the Balducci family and Stefano Arlunno, co-founders and partners of EFFEBI NEW PROJECT, the concept draws on research, automotive culture and nautical heritage to explore a new approach within the sub-24m yacht market.
Igor Lobanov takes an integrated approach
Igor Lobanov, who previously created the styling language of the Mangusta REV range, developed the Icona 70's exterior, interior, ergonomics and helm station as a single project. Among its distinctive elements is a curved-glass windshield inspired by fighter jets, while the design combines clean exterior lines with volumes and spaces normally associated with larger superyachts.
Transformable stern expands life on the water
Further innovation is concentrated around the stern, where opening side wings create a 40-square-metre platform on the water. A side garage is incorporated into the design, allowing the expanded stern to remain focused on guests and providing a large waterside space within the motor yacht's 21m footprint.
From Cannes to two design awards
Since its introduction at the Cannes Yachting Festival, the Icona 70 has collected recognition for two different aspects of its design. The Best Exterior Design award at the World Yachts Trophies 2026 recognised its exterior styling, while the latest Special Award for Outstanding Innovation focuses attention on the broader thinking behind the project. For a closer look at the yacht's design, layout and features, explore YachtBuyer’s first look at the Icona 70 following its surprise world debut at Cannes 2026.
YachtBuyer MarketWatch follows new models such as the Icona 70 from their introduction into production and the sales market, bringing together model data, sisterships and live listings in one place. This allows buyers to follow how the Icona range develops beyond its inaugural model.
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