Italian shipyard Azimut has presented two new models in its Grande line at the Cannes Yachting Festival, the Grande 36M and the Grande 26M.
Both models have been designed by Alberto Mancini with and interior courtesy of Achille Salvagni making it an all-Italian team behind the build. The Grande line now comprises five designs including the existing Grande 27M, Grande 32M and 38 metre Grande Trideck.
The new Grande 36M has a number of stand-out features including a semi-walkaround upper deck that runs on the same level from the stern to the bow. Called the "Infinity Deck", the fully recessed glazed surfaces can be opened on three sides, creating a semi-enclosed space that feels in tune with the surrounding vistas.
The yacht can accommodate up to 10 guests across five cabins, with a unique layout that creates a barrier-free space that aims to offer a “sense of freedom”, according to the yard.
The Grande 36M is part of Azimut’s Low Emission range. Thanks to its high-efficiency structure and extensive use of carbon fibre, its weight has been reduced by around 30 per cent in comparison to similar models.
The D2P (Displacement to Planing) hull created by Pierluigi Ausonio of Studio PLANA in partnership with the Azimut | Benetti Research and Development department, has a fine-tuned wave-piercing design. This optimises fuel usage and reduces CO2 emissions by up to 15 - 30 per cent, at both high and low speeds when compared to yachts of a similar size with a traditional chine hull.
Azimut is offering the Grande 36m with either twin MTU 2200 or 2400 engines, the latter able to reach speeds of up to 24 knots with cruising at 18 knots.
The Grande 26M is the smallest offering available in the shipyard's Grande series. One of the yacht’s key features is something the yard has dubbed the ‘Deck2Deck’, a design element that sees the transom raise flush with the aft edge of the main deck. This creates an extendable deck that can be used as a lounge area or dining space, with convertible furniture on hand to help owners customise it to their needs.
Efficiency is another cornerstone of the design, with Azimut estimating that the yacht's lightweight superstructure, which uses plenty of carbon fibre, helps the yacht deliver 20 per cent lower fuel consumption than boats of the same size.
Elsewhere, the Grande 26M has a fluid layout that prioritises independence between crew and guest areas. The galley can be connected to the main saloon or closed off, according to the wishes of the owner. There are a total of five cabins on board including a main deck owner’s suite that spans the yacht's 6.3-metre beam. Full-height windows feature alongside an en suite that wraps neatly around the forward section of the cabin.
Crowning the yacht is a huge sundeck that is comparable to a yacht of thirty metres or more, according to the yard. There is a helm station, generous dining area and plenty of sun lounging spots.