Custom Line Saetta 128 Yacht Sparks Change for Planing Yacht Series

Earlier this fall, Custom Line chose to lend a name to its planing-hull series for the first time. It selected Saetta, which translates to “lightning bolt” in English. It simultaneously, but only briefly, revealed plans for a new model for the series to journalists. That model, the Custom Line Saetta 128 yacht project, is in build for launch and delivery next year.

The trideck joins the existing models previously known as the Custom Line 106, 120, and 140, all now branded “Saetta” as well. Although the Saetta 128 follow tradition in being conceived and engineered in house, styling is by a studio that Custom Line hasn’t previously collaborated with, SY Design. “We were hugely motivated by the challenge of creating a new trideck model, but one with sporty dynamic lines because Custom Line Saetta 128 has a planing hull, an unprecedented choice for a yacht this size,” say SY Design’s founders, Matteo Sassone and Veronic Yien. In fact, most megayachts in the 130-foot (40-meter) range rely on semi-displacement hulls. “Our goal was to innovate the distinctive features of the range and integrate new character traits,” the designers add. Those new details further “an act as a springboard for the future.”

For instance, the transom on the other Saetta models is essentially vertical. Aboard the new superyacht model, it slopes down toward the water. Additionally, both the sundeck and the upper deck extend farther aft, shading some space beneath them. Similar to the transom, they curve downward, too.

From the saloon to the staterooms, meanwhile, ACPV Architects offers two décor moods. Firstly, the Perfect Mood prioritizes rich tones. Picture chocolate and mocha lacquers, plus walnut and maple parquet soles. White marbles and textured ivory wallpaper create contrasts, too. The other package, Classic Mood, is warmer and more subdued, with oak and linear-oriented wallpapers.

Regardless of choice, buyers of the Custom Line Saetta 128 yacht still have personalization available. Custom furnishings, for example, are available for alfresco as well as interior areas. Patricia Viel, co-founder of ACPV Architects, says that each client collaboration still pays homage to the sleek Saetta series profile. “The flowing design of the window frames and ceiling cutouts, taken together with the sleek lines of the custom-built furnishings and freestanding pieces, gives the project a strong sense of dynamism,” she notes.

Some areas that clients should particularly appreciate include the upper deck. Instead of the enclosed space being a traditional skylounge and wheelhouse, a second upper saloon (below) joins them. It’s a cozy 215 square feet (20 square meters), joining the skylounge, which has opening glass on three sides. Space allocation outside is healthy, especially forward, where a big U-shape settee complements sunbathing. Should owners intend to spend more time out on deck, they can opt for a hot tub as well.

Generally speaking, the layout of the Custom Line Saetta 128 yacht series keeps with what the majority of buyers want. The main deck, for example, features an open-plan saloon and dining area, with an adjacent galley. The master suite sits forward, and all guest staterooms are below decks. Interestingly, though, the series replaces the beach club with a multi-purpose space. Decide whether to stow watertoys here or use it as a continuation of the alfresco lifestyle.

Expect sea trials in several months to confirm an expected top end of 22 knots and a cruising speed of 19 knots. Power comes from twin MTU engines. Furthermore, best range should be at 11 knots, specifically 1,000 nautical miles. That should please stateside cruisers as much as clients who chase the seasons across the Atlantic.

ACPV Architects acpvarchitects.com

Custom Line customline-yacht.com

SY Design sydesign.it