Charter yacht of the week: The 50m yacht Giorgio Armani designed to defy convention

Each week, we select one of the world’s finest superyachts for charter. This week, we step on board the 49.9-metre Mariù, the Codecasa yacht conceived by Giorgio Armani and named after his mother.

Launched in 2003, Mariù was designed to challenge the conventional superyacht aesthetic. Armani had grown tired of the white marble and crystal interiors he encountered on charter yachts, instead envisioning a more understated, tactile approach to design. The result was a yacht with a charcoal-grey exterior and bespoke interiors that reflected his distinctive style, developed alongside the launch of his Armani/Casa homeware collection.

Why charter Mariù?

While many superyachts favour glossy finishes and grand chandeliers, Mariù takes a more considered approach. Richly grained wood, leather furnishings and aluminium ceilings give her interiors a distinctive character, with the design conceived by Armani in collaboration with Ortelli and Giorgio Barilani.

The yacht accommodates up to 12 guests across six cabins, including a generous master suite and a VIP stateroom. Four further double cabins provide flexible sleeping arrangements, with two convertible into twins. An elevator connects the decks, while a 2022 refit brought updated onboard technology, including Quantum zero-speed stabilisers and a Kaleidescape AMX audio-visual system.

Inside Giorgio Armani’s design vision

Armani once said he fell in love with the sea at the age of four, and its influence remained a constant throughout his life and work. On Mariù, that connection is expressed through natural textures and restrained finishes, from wide pine floorboards and bleached-oak panelling to aluminium ceilings.

In the main saloon, an aluminium staircase forms a striking focal point. Two sofas and a pair of green leather armchairs create a relaxed seating area, while the room’s clean lines and unusual materials give it a character distinct from the more traditional interiors found on many charter yachts. A wine cellar with space for 200 bottles adds another feature for guests to enjoy.

What's life like on deck?

Outside, Mariù offers plenty of space for dining, lounging and making the most of the sunshine. The sundeck is the main spot for relaxation, with a Jacuzzi forward, generous sunpads and a shaded sit-up bar for refreshments.

Dining is spread across two decks. A long table on the main deck aft seats 12, while a second rectangular table on the upper deck provides an alternative setting. Guests can also retreat to the foredeck for a more intimate coffee or a quieter moment away from the main social areas.

For time on the water, the yacht carries an extensive selection of toys and equipment. These include two tenders, two Yamaha jet skis, water skis, inflatable kayaks, towables and fishing tackle, alongside 12 sets of snorkelling equipment and six sets of scuba diving gear. A dive compressor is also carried on board.

How to book Mariù

Mariù is available for charter with Edmistion with price on application (POA). She is available in summer 2027 in Greece.