A Double Debut for Azimut|Benetti

Azimut once again reinvents yacht layout design with two innovative solutions that open up new onboard spaces and horizons. The Grande 26M features a Sea View Terrace on an extended cockpit, while the Grande 36M introduces the first-ever upper deck semi-walkaround, which extends over a single level almost to the tip of the bow.

Azimut consolidates its reputation as the industry leader in creating new trends, with the simultaneous unveiling of the Grande 26M and Grande 36M. Packed with original solutions designed to foster a sense of freedom and proximity to the sea, these revolutionary yachts will be officially presented to the wider public at the Cannes Yachting Festival later this year.

The philosophy behind the Azimut Grande collection is to evoke a feeling of being completely immersed in nature. This is achieved by removing any impediments or barriers, with its signature full-length windows just one of many bold design features that are not merely for the sake of aesthetics but designed to deliver an extraordinary experience for owner and guests alike. The arrival of the Grande 26M and Grande 36M signals an increasingly ambitious direction with a focus on redefining spaces through versatility, design ingenuity and technological insight.

Grande 26M
The Grande 26M surprises and delights with its fold-up Sea View Terrace, created by opening up the stern hatch so that it becomes a natural extension of the cockpit. This intuitive and versatile design, inspired by that of the larger Trideck, transforms the cockpit into a glorious terrace on the sea. With its cleverly designed convertible furniture, it can be instantly changed into an al fresco living area, offering the owner and guests a relaxing spot to soak up the sun during the day or a stunning open-air dining zone with a walkaround table for access on all four sides and unimpeded sea views.

In line with the latest innovative design dynamics, the layout of the Grande 26M benefits from an original approach to how the different levels are utilised, creating solutions that deliver enhanced comfort and total privacy when desired. The interiors by Alberto Mancini feature an owner’s suite with floor-to-ceiling windows on the main deck and four guest cabins below. Crew quarters are located in the bow with direct access to the galley and side walkway, a separate thoroughfare made possible by the partially-raised wheelhouse.

Grande 36M
With the Grande 36M, Azimut introduces an exciting new concept in the form of an upper deck semi-walkaround which runs on a single level from the stern almost to the very tip of the bow. Offering unprecedented freedom of movement, this is a never-before-seen feature that once again demonstrates Azimut’s trailblazing credentials. The Grande 36M conjures up space that previously never existed, transforming the layout to deliver a wonderfully spacious single environment that can be enjoyed from morning to midnight. For the first time, the upper deck becomes a physical place that takes in the entire length of the yacht. The sky lounge sits at the centre, with oversize slide-away glass doors opening up to allow the interior to seamlessly merge into the exterior with its tantalising all-glass hot tub and fully-equipped sundeck. The avantgarde design philosophy centres around offering layout solutions tailored to the individual owner’s lifestyle. The spaciousness of the various areas means that the salon and sky lounge can be fitted out in a variety of ways, from traditional to more innovative, including an informal indoor-outdoor dining zone. These new onboard spaces introduced by the Grande 36M epitomise Azimut’s pioneering spirit and commitment to meeting the needs of contemporary owners who desire a yacht that expresses their unique personality.

Sustainability | Green Efficiency Program
The Grande 26M and Grande 36M combine innovation with an ethical approach that reflects Azimut’s drive for a more sustainable future, outlined in its Green Efficiency Programme which was introduced in 2015 with the aim of decreasing environmental impact.

Both new models benefit from extensive use of carbon fibre and vinyl ester resin, which together reduce the superstructure weight by 30%, thus optimising engine power which in turn reduces fuel usage.

The Grande 26M is powered by a new Pod drive system which, together with the lighter structure, lowers fuel consumption by 20% in comparison with traditional boats of similar dimensions, while the Grande 36M boast the latest evolution of the D2P® (Displacement to Planing) hull. Designed by Pierluigi Ausonio of Studio P.L.A.N.A. and the Azimut|Benetti R&D department, it has already demonstrated its effectiveness on the Grande Trideck, recognised as the current benchmark in terms of efficiency and fuel consumption. The D2P® hull’s finetuned wave piercer delivers optimised fuel usage levels, with peaks in the efficiency of up to 40% at displacement speed, compared to traditional hard chine hulls.