Four Decades of Innovation: The Pershing Legacy
For forty years, Pershing has stood as a symbol of speed, innovation, and Italian style in the world of yachting. What began in the early 1980s as a small venture focused on repairing laminated wood boats has grown into a global powerhouse, celebrated for pushing the boundaries of yacht design and technology. The journey began in 1985 with the Pershing 45, a groundbreaking model that expertly blended the thrilling performance of a powerboat with the spaciousness of a luxury motoryacht. This revolutionary design set the standard for every Pershing that followed.
Over the next four decades, Pershing expanded its fleet, its global reach, and its reputation for excellence. The brand became part of the Ferretti Group in 1998, and later, the Weichai Group, solidifying its place on the international stage. Through it all, Pershing has remained dedicated to its core values, constantly introducing new models and technical solutions to meet the evolving demands of the market, from the game-changing Generation X and GTX ranges to the brand’s first superyacht.
Pioneering Technology and Design
Pershing's commitment to innovation is evident in its long history of engineering firsts. The brand was a pioneer in moving from traditional shaft drives to surface-piercing propeller systems, a technology for which it is now a leader in recreational applications. In 2004, the Pershing 115 introduced water jets powered by a gas turbine, a feat of engineering that delivered over 5,100 HP. Other notable technical achievements include the triple-engine propulsion system on the Pershing 108, launched in 2011, and a focus on structural choices that improve weight distribution, seakeeping, and comfort.
Beyond performance, Pershing has always placed a strong emphasis on design and onboard technology. This has led to collaborations with top-tier companies like Besenzoni and Poltrona Frau to create unique and sophisticated features. Key design innovations include:
- The "Pershing wing," which first appeared on the Pershing 70.
- The sleek, retracting carbon fiber stairway.
- The distinctive windscreen design with no supporting pillars.
- And the clever concealed sliding glass door on the Pershing 72.
Modern Fleet and Future Horizons
Today, the Pershing fleet is more diverse than ever, featuring two distinct ranges and a superyacht. The Generation X line—including the 5X, 6X, 7X, 8X, and 9X models—is defined by its use of lightweight materials, integrated control systems, and streamlined shapes. The GTX range, which includes the GTX116, GTX80, and GTX70, introduces the "Sport Utility Yacht" concept, prioritizing comfort and livability without compromising performance.
The brand's pinnacle achievement is the Pershing 140, its first superyacht, built entirely of aluminum at the Ferretti Group Super Yacht Yard in Ancona. All Pershing yachts, from concept to completion, are produced at the state-of-the-art 84,000-square-meter facility in Mondolfo, Italy. The facility boasts advanced technology, including a dry painting process certified by PPG that delivers a luxury car-like finish, ensuring every vessel meets the highest standards before it ever touches the water.
