achts are the ultimate status symbol, not just in Kuwait, but all over the world. Is there anything better than sailing into the sunset on your yacht to wake up in Monaco, Portofino or Ibiza? Why have a priceless painting hanging on the wall of your personal library where only very few people can see it, when you can own a head-turning luxury yacht? Where is the excitement if you cannot publicly display your status symbol? From the second you buy a yacht, it will become something you will want to show off – so gather friends and family together and throw a party – your yacht will be the most exclusive form of social gathering.
Luxury yachts are an indulgence whose number one perk is entertainment.
When it comes to owning a yacht, there is a misconception that bigger is better. However, yachts that are less than 50 feet long are continuously evolving in design and complexity, all moving at significantly high speeds and providing facilities that are equivalent to those of a five-star hotel.
The market provides a wide range of choices:
• Motor yacht (15 mt.)
• Super yacht ( 30 mt.)
• Mega yacht ( 50 mt.)
The largest yacht exhibition in the Middle East is the Dubai Boat Show, which takes place on March 12-18, 2008 at the Dubai International Marine Club. All the major shipyard companies, including Amels, Azimut-Benetti, CRN/Custom Line, Gulf Craft, Lürssen and Trinity Yachts will be present.
In preparation for the show we have chosen what Men’s Passion believes are some of the best available options under 50 feet-long for you to consider.
Atlantis 42
A couple of years ago Atlantis yachts came out of the Azimut/Benetti group. Nowadays, Atlantis has established itself as a key player in the motor yacht arena, with six yacht models (Atlantis 35, 39, 42, 47, 50 and 55) and three sport cruiser models (SC EVO 315, 345 and 425).
The combination of the Azimut/Benetti group experience mixed with modern designers’ creativity has generated the Atlantis 42. Choice of material and design are the ultimate perks of this yacht.
The Plan
This new style can clearly be seen in the top-of-the-line models, among them the new Atlantis 42.
This yacht combines comfort and luxury with a sporty feel. In addition to being a 42-footer, there are two double cabins in the upper deck, a comfortable saloon and a spacious cockpit.
Atlantis is a great example of a sports cruiser, and this is exemplified through its performance at sea. Its two 310 hp Volvo motors guarantee excellent performance regardless of the number of passengers. Furthermore, it provides you with a special sturdy area for sunbathing, which includes a condiments tray and a backrest that adjusts electronically.
The Stern Sunbathing Area
But the most impressive part of the yacht is in the lower deck - an elegant mix of painted cherry walls and elegant furniture. In the main room you will find a steel and glass spacious well-lit dinette with a comfortable six-seater sofa. As for the main cabin, it is fitted with a closet, large drawers and a private bathroom.
A second bathroom is available for guests, along with a guest cabin with double beds.
Azimut 43S
When it comes to yacht design there are plenty of choices offered, but if you want the best in the business, stick to Italian.
Italian designer Stefano Righini created the Azimut 43S - the smallest cruiser boat in the Open S range. It represents the perfect combination of the power and sport cruiser feel of an Open and the elegance and comfort of a Fly.
Living and sleeping areas are separated through special openings and windows. In the main deck, the sky and ocean are merged together through the use of glass, light, air and shade.
The Main and Lower Deck Plan
Research and innovation is the main part of the Azimut philosophy. In the modern complex of Avigliana in Italy engineers, technicians and designers constantly challenge classical nautical conventions by maximizing the comfort on board and reaching high levels of performance.
The yacht is equipped with two innovative Volvo IPS 370 hp engines able to reach 33 knots (maximum speed) and a cruising speed of 29 knots. Noise and fuel consumption are reduced and the rotating propulsion units improve the maneuverability at a low engine range and reduces the turning circle during navigation.
Thanks to square windows, a trademark of Azimut, the cabins are always well lit. Bathrooms for the main cabin, as well as the guest cabin carry the same contemporary design: a spacious shower with sliding doors and a transparent crystal washbasin. The lower deck is defined through an oriental touch, while folding doors make the environment spacious.
If you are still not impressed, then check out the websites we have listed.
First published in Men's Passion issue #1 November-December 2007
