Pierluigi Ausonio Naval Architecture
Pierluigi Ausonio, founder of P.L.A.N.A. Design, is a Genoa-trained naval architect who began designing military vessels for Fincantieri before transitioning to yachts. His first yacht project—the 37m Codecasa fast displacement Aquajoy (1992)—launched a career serving Azimut-Benetti, Baglietto, Sanlorenzo, and Perini Navi.
From Warships to Superyachts
Pierluigi Ausonio graduated in Naval Architecture and Mechanical Engineering from the University of Genoa in 1981. He began his career at Cantieri Navali Riuniti (later Fincantieri – Naval Vessels Division), working on hydrodynamic hull and propeller design for Italian and foreign navies, including fast attack craft, patrol vessels, corvettes, destroyers, landing ships, oceanographic vessels, and submarines. In 1989, he launched his independent practice, consulting for Italy's premier shipyards.
The First Yacht: Aquajoy
In 1991, Fulvio Codecasa commissioned Ausonio to develop naval architecture for a new type of yacht: a 37m fast displacement vessel in light alloy with demanding performance targets. Launched in 1992 as Aquajoy, her successful sea trials convinced Ausonio that yacht design would become his career. He reflects: 'If that first boat hadn't been a success, perhaps I wouldn't be doing this job today'.
P.L.A.N.A. Design and Current Work
Ausonio now leads P.L.A.N.A. Design (PierLuigi Ausonio Naval Architecture) from Sanremo, partnering with Nav.Ars Srl in Arenzano. His client list includes Azimut-Benetti, Baglietto, Mondo Marine, Rodriquez, Cantieri di Lavagna, Canados, Perini Navi, Picchiotti, Sanlorenzo, and Overmarine. Most recently, Ausonio's firm developed naval architecture for the 49.9m Benetti B.Now 50 NG (2025), collaborating with Benetti's in-house team and exterior/interior designer RWD.
