Consider it an ultimate dayboat or tricked-out tender for your megayacht. Either way, there’s never been anything like the Wider 42. And outside of Wally, there’s really never been a boatbuilder like Wider Yachts, focused on pushing the boundaries of convention to this degree.
When you realize Wider Yachts’ founder is Tilli Antonelli, however, it starts to make sense. Antonelli founded Pershing in Italy in the 1980s, remaining its chief until earlier this year. Pershing yachts and megayachts earned the nickname “silver bullet” because of their sleek shape, metallic exterior color scheme, and of course speed. They were dramatically different than other craft when they landed on American shores in the 1990s.
The first Wider 42 should turn heads, too, when she premieres next year, likely at the Genoa boat show. (The American debut date isn’t yet set. The North and South American markets are primary targets, however.) The company name draws inspiration from the biggest selling concept of the boat, which Antonelli personally devised. The amidships area can widen to both sides, doubling the usable space. In addition, the extended hull sections simulate outriggers, like on proas. Antonelli likes to refer to the extra space as “a sort of playground in the middle of the sea.” Further notable is the use of Esthec instead of teak underfoot.
Wider Yachts’ facility is in Castelvecchio di Monteporzio, Italy, the same location where the first Pershing launched. There’s yet another tie to the Pershing days. All the models (35- and 50-footers are in the works) feature styling by Fulvio De Simoni. Naval architecture comes from in house in conjunction with Wave Ingegneria and Mark Wilson, who’s made a name in offshore powerboat racing.
The latter’s contributions are particularly noticeable in the racing-style stepped hull of the 42. Even the engine installation is similar to that in the racing world: offset, not directly side by side. This reportedly yields a lower center of gravity on centerline, bolstering stability. Construction-wise, Wider employs SCRIMP, with a carbon and vinylester resin. Some components are solely carbon fiber. All of these elements will keep weight down, important particularly given the anticipated 45-knot-plus top speed.
Owners and guests will have a variety of ways to enjoy that speed. Inside, there’s a dinette that can convert to a berth for naps or overnights. In the image here, the amidship cockpit is for dining. But it can also be a sundeck, by dropping the table and covering it with a pad. Alternately the seating area slides apart to convert into two sunlounges. It’s interesting to note that all seating is comprised of inflatable cushions, not traditional fixed fiberglass benches. If the mood strikes, you can remove the cushions and toss them in the water as extra toys.
Speaking of toys, the Wider 42 can tote a RIB or PWC aft. Another option: dive bottles and related gear. Regardless, the platform upon which the toys are stowed lowers to allow easy entry into the water.
Alain sily
Wider 42 so nice boat can i have the price and spec. please. Thanks
Diane M. Byrne
Specs are on the Wider Yachts website: http://www.wider-yachts.com/en/wider-42 That same page has a contact form that you can fill out, but we will pass along your name and email to Wider as well.