Benetti’s storied history in building luxury motoryachts started in 1873 and currently it is recognised as one of the oldest yacht brands in the world.  Established by Lorenzo Benetti in 1873, the company is led by two of Lorenzo’s sons – Gion and Emilio – who took over the management of the boatyard to produce crafts for the local and international trade. In fact, it was in the 1960s that Benetti produced the first luxury mega yachts. More importantly, since 1980, the company takes pride in building big motoryachts in the 30 to 60m range and beyond. Today, Benetti is renowned as a modern and technologically advanced boatyard where its innovative products, forward-thinking philosophy, and skilled artisans all come together with a passion for fine craftsmanship in every craft they manufacture.

On 26 May 2018, Benetti organised a glamorous event to celebrate a momentous occasion – the launch of the full-custom, 50-metre megayacht M/Y “Blake” at its Bia Coppino shipyard, located in Viareggio, Italy. The exclusive event was witnessed by 300 specially-invited guests. This beautiful craft is bent on tackling long cruises and can sail the seas in silence while providing supreme comfort for its occupants.

Benetti’s M/Y “Blake”, is inarguably the longest GRP hull and aluminium superstructure yacht ever built by the company. This exclusive launch meant that the yacht entered the water with an impressive dive from the shipyard’s 8-per-cent gradient slipway. This specialised shipyard is the only one in Italy that can launch superyachts between 40 to 50 metres in length, each weighing up to 350 tonnes. The company’s last slipway launch was back in March 2016 where the 45-m fully-custom megayacht M/Y “Domani” dived into the water.

Step into the M/Y “Blake” and you’re surrounded by sophistication all around. The distinctive interior layout is kitted up with a high-level of luxury detailing. All rooms and spaces feature exceptional livability and tasteful style all thanks to its designers – the London-based firm Bannenberg & Rowell Design. Complementing that style is substance and power – an impressive 4,000 nautical miles at 11 knots where two Caterpillar C32 Acert engines generate 1,193 kW, delivering a cruising speed of about 14 knots and a top speed of 15.5 knots. Surprisingly, the low-level of noise and vibration make this yacht ideal for spending long periods on board in total comfort; which is perfect for private charters, or private nautical getaways.

Unique to this superyacht is the guest area on the lower deck which occupies a surface area of 310 square metres and offers four well-appointed cabins. As for the upper deck, the lounge can be transformed into another VIP cabin. The most well-loved deck is possible the Sun Deck that’s primed for family and friends to socialise in. The yacht-owner’s apartment is forward on the main deck. The stern garage can house a 6.3-m tender, while in the bow there are two jet skis and a rescue boat compartment. The aft swim platform is a beach club with a stern door that opens up to form a spacious terrace at water level.

When it comes to innovation, sophistication, passion, and commitment to artisanal quality, Benetti is at the top of its game – to keep creating some of the world’s most luxurious superyachts for the yachting lifestyle.

For more information: www.benettiyachts.it