This weekend, Italy’s famed city of Viareggio hosts the Versilia Yachting Rendezvous. The intent is to introduce the yachting experience to new clientele. Among the yachts and megayachts on display is Skyler, the third launch in Benetti’s Fast series.
A Benetti Fast 125, Skyler is meant for good speeds and equally good fuel consumption. Her carbon composite construction saves weight. In fact, Benetti says, it saves 40 percent over traditional fiberglass designs. The hull further has a wavepiercer design, a bow structure that permits more efficient motion through the water. Benetti adds overall, Skyler should see a top speed of 22 knots under MTU power, similar to traditional semi-displacement yachts. Furthermore, in displacement mode, she should burn less fuel than those same yachts. Best range should be 1,540 nautical miles at 12 knots. The shipyard says this is even better than previous Fast 125s.
Also related to performance, Skyler has a Rolls Royce Azipull Carbon 65 (AZP C65) unit. Azipulls are steerable, pulling propellers meant for fast yachts, plus workboats and passenger vessels. They aid in maneuvering while underway and dockside. In fact, Skyler can stay on station without anchors, similar to Dynamic Positioning, since her azipull can work in conjunction with the GPS. The AZP C65 is made of carbon fiber, too, saving weight, plus it saves space.
Benetti says these savings further allows Skyler’s engine room to sit farther away from the four guest staterooms. (The master, with a balcony, sits on the main deck.) As a result, they benefit from sound and vibration reduction. In turn, the Benetti Fast 125 has RINA Comfort Class status.
For more comfort, the 27-foot-beam (8.3-meter-beam) boat has four decks and plenty of alfresco relaxation space. The upper deck, for example, has two big sunpads and a hot tub. Aft on the same deck sits a 6’6”-diameter (2-meter-diameter) dining table, custom made of teak, steel, and glass. Skyler has the de rigeur beach club, too, complete with a bar. A separate tender garage holds the main tender and two PWCs.
Redman Whiteley Dixon worked with the owner, who’s well versed in yachting, to tailor the interior. High-gloss ebony, Tanganyika, and other woods appear prominently. Leathers run overhead, while shiny nickel serves as accent pieces throughout. Colors include acid green, aqua, blue, and lavender. The owner particularly wanted a tactile experience, so carpeting is extra soft underfoot, and handrails have fine details as well.
The owner also wanted to enjoy the cooking experience. Skyler therefore has a main-deck galley with an island and marble table.
Skyler is actually not yet in her owner’s hands, but will be following the Rendezvous.
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