by Maximiliano Crocamo
A student engineering team at the University of Trieste has launched a new sustainable racing sailboat, “Neverina,” a foiling Moth designed to combine high-performance naval architecture with reduced environmental impact.
Developed by the Audace Sailing Team, the boat was unveiled on May 13 at the Yacht Club Adriaco. The project involved more than 70 students across six departments at the University of Trieste, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach that merged engineering, design and sustainability research.
The name “Neverina” references the sudden local weather phenomenon known in Trieste as the “neverin,” a fast-moving storm that can rapidly change conditions over the Gulf. The team said the concept was intended to reflect both the boat’s responsiveness and its connection to the local maritime environment.
The vessel will compete in the 2026 SuMoth Challenge, an international university competition focused on foiling Moth design. It will be helmed by student-athletes Leonardo Centuori, Anastasia Mutti and Carlotta Rizzardi, all of whom have experience in competitive sailing at international level.
The project builds on earlier prototypes developed by the team and incorporates sustainability measures including recycled PET, bio-based resins and natural fibers such as flax and basalt. Engineers also used simulation tools to optimize performance and reduce estimated emissions during production.
Before the competition, the team is scheduled to present the boat at the Salone Nautico di Venezia and the MetsTrade later this year.
