For those of you who play chess, facing checkmate is anything but a desirable situation. In the case of the newest Benetti Vision 145, however, it’s an enviable situation. Checkmate, with her black-and-white profile, will be cruising the waters of the Med quite soon, having launched last weekend in Viareggio, Italy.
Checkmate is the 15th megayacht in Benetti’s Vision series, bearing the familiar styling of Stefano Righini. Further noteworthy, Checkmate’s launch marked the 100th fiberglass yacht that Benetti has built in its Viareggio facility since 1998.
Checkmate’s owner, from Washington, D.C., as well as his family were present for the launch, which was held true Italian-style. The megayacht made her way into the water to the stirring notes of “Và Pensiero,” the famous chorus from the Verdi opera Nabucco.
The owner worked with François Zuretti to ensure the interior decor reflected a traditional feel. Cherry and madrona burr woods are found throughout the 30’4”-beam (9.26-meter-beam) boat, which has accommodations for 10 in the owner’s party. Marble is also used extensively.
Checkmate is powered by twin 1,300-hp Caterpillar C32 ACERTs. Like her sisters, the 143’1” (43.6-meter) megayacht should see a maximum 15-knot speed and a 3,500-nautical-mile range at 12 knots.
Checkmate is ABS classed and complies with the MCA Code.
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