Cantiere del Pardo The history of Cantiere del Pardo began in Bologna in 1973. Their ambitious objective was to produce regatta boats that combined the best possible performance with elegant and innovative design. Today’s Grand Soleil’s timeless style with 50 years of history have left its mark on a fundamental chapter in the history of modern sailing. For years, Cantiere del Pardo has been creating yachts with care and passion, each one unique, thus establishing the company as one of the top producers worldwide. Because the Grand Soleil yachts are an icon of 'made in Italy' style. Since 1973, when it was founded, Cantiere del Pardo has produced more than 3.900 boats. It occupies a covered 40.000 square meter surface and is split into three macro-departments: millwork, using cutting-edge technology and processes; carpentry, based on tradition and the manual skills of its work force; and assembly, where everything is put together carefully up to final testing in the large test tank.