In our 2023 review, we delve into the enduring legacy of Benetti Yachts, a name synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship. With 42 yachts sold, including remarkable vessels like the 351′ 1″ MAR and the 63m SOUNDWAVE, Benetti continues to shine in the luxury yacht market. From its humble beginnings in 1873 to its acquisition by Azimut in the 1980s, Benetti’s journey is one of resilience and excellence. The shipyard offers a diverse fleet, including the innovative Oasis Deck® and customizable yachts in the CUSTOM category. Benetti remains a key player in the industry, setting the standard for timeless elegance and innovation on the open seas.
In 2023, the world of luxury yachts witnessed yet another remarkable year for Benetti Yachts. With a rich history dating back to 1873, this iconic shipyard continues to define the pinnacle of maritime luxury. This year was no exception, with 42 Benetti yachts finding new owners. Among them, the awe-inspiring 351′ 1″ Benetti yacht MAR, crafted in 2020, the 72-meter OASIS, the 63-meter Benetti SOUNDWAVE which sold for an impressive €50,000,000 in Italy, the 60-meter B. NOW Benetti FB620, and the 50-meter B. NOW, both fresh from the shipyard, were just a few of the remarkable vessels that found new homes.
The luxury yacht market witnessed an average of 255 days on the market for Benetti yachts in 2023. Of the 42 yachts sold, 22 were pre-owned Benettis, 13 were new builds, and 4 were speculative ventures. Currently, there are 86 Benetti yachts on the market, each representing a unique opportunity to become a part of the Benetti legacy. Notable listings among these offerings include ALFA, the 70-meter Benetti FB273, SEANNA, the 65-meter Benetti FB254, WABASH, the 40-meter BS010, and BW, the 100-foot BT015.
Benetti’s journey through the annals of maritime history began in 1873 when Lorenzo Benetti founded the shipyard near Viareggio, Italy. Initially, the focus was on constructing commercial sailing vessels and naval ships. It was a family affair, as Lorenzo’s sons, Gino and Emilio, joined the business, eventually renaming it “Fratelli Benetti” or “Brothers Benetti.” The family’s passion for shipbuilding was evident, and the legacy continued as their four sons followed suit.
The pivotal moment came in the 1960s when the leisure yacht business soared to new heights. Benetti introduced the “Delfino” model, distinguished by its steel construction and lavish wood-panelled interiors. This marked the beginning of Benetti’s ascent in the luxury yacht world.
Subsequent models like the “Tirreno” and “Mediterraneo” further solidified Benetti’s position in the industry. By the 1980s, Benetti was at the forefront of building yachts over 24 meters, drawing global attention with the delivery of the monumental “Nabila” (now known as “Kingdom 5KR”) to Adnan Khashoggi in 1979, despite incurring a substantial financial loss.
Unfortunately, this ambitious project eventually led Benetti into bankruptcy in 1984. However, a silver lining emerged as Azimut, a fibreglass boatbuilding company based in Turin, acquired Benetti’s assets in 1985. Under the guidance of Azimut‘s owner, Paolo Vitelli, Benetti was revitalized with the necessary technical and financial support. Today, the shipyard thrives with locations in Viareggio and Livorno, Italy.
Benetti’s fleet encompasses five distinct categories, each representing a fusion of design, innovation, and craftsmanship:
CLASS: This category includes composite displacement models like the “Motopanfilo 37M” and the “Diamond 44M.” The “Motopanfilo 37M” pays homage to the nautical traditions of the 1960s while infusing modern technical and stylistic solutions. With its clever use of mirrors, it expands interior space and accentuates sea views. The “Diamond 44M” proudly stands as the flagship of Benetti’s Class category, boasting harmonious exterior proportions and a spacious 102 sqm Sun Deck.
B.YOND: The “B.YOND 37M” combines a steel hull with an aluminum superstructure, emphasizing reduced environmental impact and enhanced comfort during navigation. Its hybrid propulsion E-Mode system, developed by Siemens for the shipyard, defines a new era of eco-friendly luxury yachting.
OASIS: Benetti’s Oasis Deck®, created in collaboration with British firm RWD, reimagines the yacht experience. This innovative deck concept features opening wings extending close to the water, a luxurious integrated pool, unobstructed 270-degree views, a blend of sun and shade, and a social design. The Oasis Deck® graces models like “Oasis 34M,” “Oasis 40M,” and those within the “B.Now” category.
B.NOW: The “B.NOW” models, including the “50M,” “58M,” “66M,” and “72M,” epitomize a casual and contemporary atmosphere without compromising comfort and privacy. These yachts also feature the Oasis Deck® solution, appealing to those who relish life at sea with an air of relaxed sophistication.
CUSTOM: Benetti’s “CUSTOM” category offers tailor-made yachts, ranging from 48 to over 100 meters in length, designed to fulfill the owner’s every desire. These vessels are a testament to Benetti’s capacity to bring dreams to life on the open sea.
The Azimut | Benetti Group, home to Benetti, holds a remarkable distinction as the world’s largest superyacht builder. It is measured by the total length of yachts under construction, a testament to the enduring commitment to craftsmanship and innovation within the Benetti family.
Benetti offers not only an impressive fleet but also extensive in-house design and styling services, ensuring that each yacht becomes a unique masterpiece. Additionally, the shipyard owns the Lusben yard, specializing in repair and refits, further enhancing the comprehensive range of services available to yacht owners.
Benetti Yachts’ legacy is an enduring testament to their unwavering commitment to crafting some of the world’s most exquisite luxury vessels. From their early days constructing sailing ships to their current status as global leaders in the industry, Benetti has consistently delivered innovation, design, and quality.
As we look ahead to the future of luxury yachting, one thing remains abundantly clear: Benetti Yachts will continue to set the standard for excellence on the open seas. Their commitment to timeless elegance and cutting-edge innovation ensures that discerning yacht enthusiasts worldwide will find their dreams realized aboard a Benetti creation.
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