In a time when fibreglass was first being used in shipyards, it’s no doubt that the 1960s was a pivotal decade in yachting history books. In Italy during this era, ‘Motopanfilo’ became a term used to describe desirable luxury leisure boats amongst high society and Benetti was one of the first shipyards to cater to this demand with iconic models such as the Delfino, the Gabbiano and the Mediterraneo. Today, Benetti pays homage to its illustrative past with the Motopanfilo 37M – a 37-metre displacement yacht built in GRP, of which there are now 10 hulls, whose inspiration stems from the classic Benetti yachts of the 1960s.
“The Motopanfilo 37M was created in response to the growing demand for boats that combine classic elegance with modern performance and high-level comfort,” says Sebastiano Vida, head of product at Benetti. “We decided to develop this model to meet the needs of those who desire an uncompromising luxury sailing experience, offering timeless design, excellent manoeuvrability and well-designed spaces for relaxation and entertainment on board.”
BOAT delves into some of the yacht’s onboard features that echo the glory days.
A true head-turner
The collaborative efforts of Francesco Struglia and Benetti gave birth to elongated lines that merge the hull and superstructure of the Motopanfilo 37M. Honouring classic motifs, the “bronze paint finish in the superstructure is a distinctive element of the Motopanfilo 37M, adding a touch of refinement and sophistication to its design”, according to Vida, in lieu of traditional wooden features. Vida also notes the “round stern features characterising this yacht is a clear reference to the Navettas of the 1960s”. A central hatch opens forward, transforming the area into a spacious swim platform, whilst tenders and jet skis find shelter in the side garage so as not to waste deck areas for guest enjoyment.
Additionally, the observation deck, once centred around the mast, now occupies a prime position above the hardtop, offering a secluded retreat with 360-degree views. According to Vida, “It becomes a small fourth deck to be enjoyed in absolute intimacy with a view, comfortably lying on an enveloping chaise longue for long sunbathing sessions during the day and relaxing moments in the evening directly under the stars."
Elevating tradition inside and out
Italian studio Lazzarini Pickering Architetti crafted the interior and some of the exterior spaces on board the Motopanfilo 37M. Co-founders Claudio Lazzarini and Carl Pickering intended to create larger, brighter spaces with close contact with the water through inspiration from yachting style in the 1960s whilst infusing contemporary technical and stylistic elements.
One standout feature is the incorporation of unique interior beams in the main saloon and sky lounge. Strategically positioned to frame the interior structure and give the resemblance of a “whale’s skeleton”, these "ribs" create an elongated aesthetic that enhances the sense of spaciousness. Large windows, integrated between the beams, offer uninterrupted views of the surrounding seascape, and their mirrored surfaces amplify natural light and visually expand the interior.
The use of wood on the ceiling pays homage to classic yacht interior styles, adding warmth and a vintage aesthetic to the ambiance. “The traditional gloss varnished warm-toned woods, such as mahogany, have become lighter and matte finish with finer grains, such as oak,” explains Pickering.
Pickering goes on to explain the difference in life on board during the 1960s: “The interiors were formed of separate, very structured spaces with a large use of gloss varnished wood. Port lights in dark panelling framed the views of the sea. Life on board was divided between ‘inside’ and ‘outside’.” However, the Motopanfilo 37M has been designed to cater to today’s owners’ needs, creating fluidity between the interior and exterior through sliding glass panels.
Finished to perfection
Designed by Lazzarini Pickering Architetti together with Loro Piana Interiors, the fabrics on board embrace the quintessential summer palette of warm white, blues and malachite accents – a chromatic combination typical of a 1960s Italian summer. The studio used premium materials such as Connemara and Papeete linen for the upholstery and bedspreads for their renowned durability and comfortable texture. The addition of Millwood, Devondale and Darjeeling striped linens, found on the large decorative cushions throughout the yacht’s living areas and fire-resistant technical fabrics, creates a vibrant ambiance on board.
“Together with Loro Piana, we developed four different palettes, but the grey blue and beige selection continues to be a winner,” explains Lazzarini. “The mix of stripes and different textured fabrics where the weave is very present is a further reinterpretation of the original scheme.”
Growing the Motopanfilo family
A testament to the popularity of the Motopanfilo line, Vida alludes to a new model in the range: “We have recently presented a new project for the Motopanfilo family of yachts, the Motopanfilo 45M, whose distinctive feature will be the Veranda Deck®, a reinterpretation of the main deck lounge. The new generation of owners loves contact with the outdoors, so the new Veranda Deck® opens the space completely on three sides, creating a continuous environment between the lounge and the stern.”
For more information on the Benetti Motopanfilo 37M, contact the team at Benetti today.
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