NSS Group Launches Novaq Aluminium Yacht Tender Range at Genoa

A new Italian name for aluminium yacht tenders

NSS Group has introduced Novaq, a range of aluminium-hull rigid-inflatable boats and compact yacht tenders presented at the 66th Genoa International Boat Show in early October 2026. The group, led by Simone Morelli, has drawn on more than a decade of experience working with aluminium marine structures to develop an owned tender brand rather than simply retailing another manufacturer's boats.

Novaq's initial catalogue is organised into three families: Zero, Dolce Vita and Gran Turismo. The company lists ten versions across an overall length range from 2.50 metres to 4.60 metres, intended to cover light ship-to-shore use, more comfortable day-cruising duty and sportier helm-equipped applications. These are tenders and support craft, not vessels intended to replace the large yachts that may carry them.

Zero and the practical issue of handling weight

The Zero family comprises very compact boats of 2.50, 2.80 and 3.00 metres. Novaq's published data places their hull-and-boat weights at approximately 31, 35 and 38 kilograms respectively, before considering any variation resulting from actual outfitting. The stated maximum motor power rises from 6hp on the smallest version to 15hp on the three-metre model, reflecting differences in loading and intended performance.

For a yacht with a constrained tender locker or a small davit, a low boat weight can be valuable, but it must be interpreted carefully. Engine, fuel, safety equipment, steering hardware, lifting gear and the contents of the boat all contribute to the load carried by the parent yacht's handling system. A purchasing review therefore needs complete fitted weight, centre of gravity and lifting-point details, not only a lightweight brochure figure.

Dolce Vita and Gran Turismo widen the audience

Novaq positions Dolce Vita as its flexible middle range, covering 2.90 to 3.80 metres with layouts suitable for a broader variety of everyday uses. Gran Turismo spans 3.30 to 4.60 metres and can incorporate a steering console and a more complete helm area. Both extend the initial catalogue beyond the smallest emergency or shore-transfer boats.

The manufacturer says outfitting can be tailored according to the intended mission, including seating and component selection. Superyacht crews should verify passenger loads, boarding arrangements and suitable weather limits alongside the boat's stated capacity. A compact tender selected primarily for its deck layout may behave very differently when fully loaded with luggage, guests and crew in open water.

Distribution and future product decisions

NSS Group is based in the Olbia area of Sardinia and has used the Genoa show as its introductory industry platform for the new brand. Its commercial presentation also included examples of Sublue underwater scooters, suggesting a broader emphasis on the equipment and leisure activities that accompany yacht ownership.

Any new tender family will ultimately be judged by build quality, tube and hull serviceability, spare parts and the experience of owners using the craft in real conditions. Novaq states that its aluminium construction aims to combine strength, low weight and longevity, but no independent long-term fleet data or named superyacht order was disclosed in the official launch information. The photograph is an original Novaq manufacturer image of the Zero tender, accurately depicting one model within the range.