Boat Review: Itama Forty

Presentation

Classics of the classics. This is how I always described, the glorious boat builder Itama and it's range of boats. Founded 1969 in close premises to Italy's capital city Rome by Mario Amati, Itama was among the first answer to the legend that Teodoli's Magnum was creating in the States. The Itama 38 presented in 1979 was the first reply from Amati, creating with this new model also the first underwater exhaust system. Fast forward to 2004 and here comes the acquisition of Ferretti Group, with the Pershing holding of Itama. The Forty designed by Marco Casali replacing the 40 as reinterpreted by Amati, was the first reply from the new owners and it was already a shining star of better things to come for this legendary brand of timeless Power Yachts.

Accommodation

When launched in the fall of 2005 the Itama Forty surprised everyone in the accommodation fronts. First thanks to the cockpit layout with a big sun lounger, c-shaped settee to starboard, helm station to port and a wetbar just behind it. Second to a very smart 2 cabin interior something always missing from the old 38 which at the time was conceived by Amati more as a weekender for a young couple.

The new forty reversed this trend with a two cabin interior giving impressive accommodation while still keeping with the Itama legendary clean lines. For the nostalgic Itama also offered a single cabin version with two L-shaped saloon settees and a spacious galley to starboard taking the place of the second cabin.

Performance

Itama has always been a follower of pure deep vee hull design with the renowned 22 degrees angle aft of its hulls. The Forty follow the rules it's founder created, and differs from previous Itamas by taking advantage of modern vee drive solutions, which loose nil performance as it was in the past but adds space for comfort below. The Itama Forty thanks to the study of Ferretti Engineering keeps the wonderful weight balance the white blue hulls have a fame for, with an overall improvement. If taking out at sea with a reassuring boat is your thing, the Itama want disappoint your expectations thanks to a perfect balanced hull and a classic deep vee that slices the water in perfect manner.

Positive

Two cabin interior version

Cockpit space layout

Bathing platform functionality

Timeless lines

Negative

No railing to go forward, but I would not want one on this boat

Competition

A lot of competition for Itama, mostly coming also from Central South Italy, like renowned builder Baia, but also some new comers offering the closest threat like XL Marine with there 43 offering a very similar concept to the Forty. Other choices include the 44 Rivarama a modern interpretation, but with the Riva classic flare going into it, with the same idea going behind the Sarnico Spider. Modern looking but what could not be missing here is the Magnum 44 Banzai which offers tremendous performance. As a wild card we choose a lobster boat from USA builder Hinckley for those who still want a classic line but may may be with something more over there heads.

Baia 43 One - loft style single cabin IPS or surface drives, alternative cockpit

Magnum 44 Banzai - single cabin, aggressive modern Pininfarina lines, surface drives

Riva 44 Rivarama - a pure open from Riva, more modern style, 2 cabins

Sarnico 43 Spider - same theme to Riva, invisible second cabin with head, IPS

Unica 42 - classic lines modern windshield, various options inside and propulsion

XL Marine 43 - from the people created the previous 40, similar but 2 cabin heads option

WILD CARD: Hinckley 44 Talaria - lobster classic lines, full weather protection, 2 cabins

Conclusion

If you want a classic no frills design, strong build and a good sea keeper there is not much looking then the Itama Forty. She is undoubtedly the classic of classics, and the improvements made, make sure she will last for an other decade and more. Compared to the previous 38 and 40 models, the new interior layout, cockpit and bathing platform arrangement give the Forty the extra step ahead offering much greater volume for owners who want to use there Itama not only for fast hops between a marina and an island, but also for an extended Summer cruise. The latest Itama Forty completes the cycle thanks to it's modern interior, good accommodation and the handling performance that only a boat that is built around balance and followed by accommodation can give, but most of all outside it remains clean and unchanged as the Itamas have been since eighties.

Technical Data

LOA. 13.36 metres (43.8ft)

Hull Length. 12.25 metres

Beam. 3.95 metres

Draft. 1.22 metres

Displacement. 13.7 t loaded, 10.7 t empty with standard equipment

Fuel Capacity. 1130 litres

Water Capacity. 330 litres

Max Persons. 12

Accommodation. 2 cabins or single cabin version with single head

Engines. 2 x MAN CR 450hp

Propulsion. Shaft Drive Speed. 35 knots max, 30 knots cruising

Project. Marco Casali, Itama

Certification. CE 94/25 A

www.itama-yacht.com

Picture Copyright Itama. Data Itama.

New Model: Windy 48 Triton

The 48 Triton is the new and elegant member for the Norwegian Windy family, bearing a clear resemblance to the successful 52 Xanthos. In other words it is a luxury sport cruiser, with a classic timeless design, beautifully crafted and carefully thought out detailing. The new Windy follows the range renowned deep V-hull, which combined with powerful Volvo engines give an exciting and comfortable ride at high speeds. A tinted sliding door separate inside from outside, leading into the cockpit saloon, with its pale coloured plush furnishings. It has a curved sofa and matching table, a stainless steel rail along the wet bar and a helmsman area featuring a dashboard with an anti-glare coating. Below deck the saloon, furnished in light colours and satin finish woodwork, contains an L-shaped sofa and 26’ flat screen TV, as well as a fully-equipped pantry with ceramic hob and a combined microwave oven. The middle cabins, guest toilet and bathroom lead off from the saloon. The starboard cabin has twin beds whilst the port cabin has a comfortable double bed. The master suite in the bow, offers a double bed, wardrobe and en-suite bathroom with shower.
Technical Data:
LOA - 14.52 m (47.7ft)
Beam - 4.20 m
Weight - 12.5 t dry
Fuel Tank - 1500 l
Water Tank - 350 l
Accommodation - 6 berths
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 370hp, D6 435hp, D9 575hp with shafts
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drives, or shaft drives with 575hp
Speeds - 34 knots max, 30 knots cruising estimated with Volvo 575hp IPS pods
Range - 300 nautical miles estimated with Volvo 435hp IPS propulsion
Architect - Hans Jergen Johnsen
Certification - CE A

www.windy.no

Project: Menorquin 240 Custom Yacht

The Menorquin Custom Yacht 240 has been created by the prestigious designer Fulvio de Simoni, it is a fusion of unmistakable Menorquin style and ingenious solutions. De Simoni is one of the most prestigious yacht designers with an extensive career which he has developed in the top naval construction firms worldwide. By the time he was 25 years old he set up his own studio from which he has designed for among the most notable yacht builders in Italy, the United States and Turkey. The new Menorquin Custom Yacht 240 has exceptional habitability. This is thanks to its hull shape which, like other Menorquins, has a very broad beam. The swimming platform has a hydraulic retractable extension which makes use of the boats full length. As De Simoni outlines the Menorquin Custom Yacht 240 is a 24 metre boat with the habitability of a 26 metre boat. The new Menorquin flagship has 4 completely separate living areas, 3 on the main deck and 1 on the flybridge. The stern cockpit leads out to the swimming platform, is overlooked from the saloon-dining area and is equipped with an outdoor dining area for up to 10 people. The sleek saloon-dining area is accessed from the stern cockpit area and also at the sides from the deck passages that run from the bow to the stern. This area is equipped with a high bar on the stern port side, a simple stylish cupboard on the stern starboard side and a spacious L-shaped sofa towards the centre of the living area. The dining table is in the bow end of the living area and seats 8 normally but can be extended to seat 10 people. The lateral boat sections facing the saloon side doors fold out to form exterior balconies. The bow has a large sundeck and a third living-dining area that seats eight and can be reached from both sides. The flybridge has a fully equipped dining area, solarium and helm console with 3 independent pilot seats. Cupboards suitable for housing a barbecue, small sink and fridge are found on the starboard side. The tender may be stored aft on the flybridge level where there is sufficient space to store a jet bike and a 4 metre inflatable. A hydraulic davit is positioned on the starboard side for quick and easy release. The Menorquin Custom Yacht 240 incorporates two fully equipped helm stations, one inside and the other on the flybridge. The interior main helm is on the starboard side and has two helm seats. The console’s wood and leather finishes are designed to avoid reflections from the windscreen, a pantograph style door marks a change in composition to this area of the yacht. On the port side is a small study area with a corner desk for use as a computer or card table. A part from a fully equipped kitchen, the lower deck has been intended entirely for rest. There are two double and two single cabins, each with their own washrooms. The main cabin is located towards the centre of the boat and the VIP guestroom is in the bow, both occupy the full beam of the boat and are fitted with double beds, bedside tables, desks, chaise lounges and wardrobes. Both cabins have en suite washrooms and dressing rooms. Because the beam at the bow is practically the same width as at the boats mid-point, the VIP cabin is an exceptionally ample living space. Independent crew accommodation is also found on the lower deck with can be accessed from the main deck. There are two single cabins and facing them is a separate washroom. The kitchen has been designed to incorporate a crew dining area. The yacht’s propulsion is guaranteed by a pair of 1.550 CV diesel engines, which deliver estimated performance of a maximum 24 knots and continues cruising at 20 knots.

www.menorquin.com

New Model: Princess V 85

A new concept in a dynamic design the Princess V85's stunning good looks disguise a very practical and spacious interior layout, as well as a number of new design features. Princess V Class sports yachts are renowned for high performance and the V85 is no exception, with a deep V hull and a choice of the latest diesel engines giving speeds close to 40 knots. Distinctively for a sports yacht, the V85 incorporates a small flying bridge with full repeat controls and a large seating area with refrigerated cool box. The spacious cockpit features a seating dining area for eight and as well as a bar area. The forward area of the large saloon incorporates a sliding roof which opens over the control position and the dining area. A sliding door to starboard gives access to the side deck. With a full beam owner's cabin and three additional guest cabins, all en-suite, the lower accommodation provides comfortable and luxurious accommodation for eight. The V85 also features a large galley which has the option of being fully enclosed or open plan. There are two crew cabins together with a galley and mess area accessible from the starboard side deck. Each cabin can be fitted with one or two berths giving provision for a maximum of four crew. The V85 is a sports yacht, which combines practical, spacious accommodation and thrilling performance with a high degree of seaworthiness, ease of handling and control and a genuine long-range cruising capability, all within timeless and elegant lines and breathtaking good looks.

Technical Data:

LOA - 25.91 m (85ft)

Beam - 6.27 m

Draft - 1.81 m

Fuel Capacity - 6.000 l

Water Capacity - 1.205 l

Displacement - 60 T with Caterpillar 1820hp engines full fuel and water tanks

Engines - 2 x Caterpillar C32A 1820hp, MTU 16V2000M92 2180hp

Speeds - 38 knots max with 70% load and MTUs 2180hp option

www.princessyachts.com

Project: Apreamare 80 Maestro

Apreamare continues to upgrade it's Maestro motor yacht range, with this new 24 metre, being the biggest boat ever built by the renowned Sorrento shipyard. The Zuccon designed Maestro range has been a challenge to Apreamare offering distinctive futuristic design with classic features making for a unique offer in the market. The new flagship from Apreamare will take the distinctive features which have marked the Maestro concept to a new dimension like big vertical windows which offer great sea views, spacious ship like decks and unbeatable space inside especially in the saloon area. Standard interior layout is for a 4 cabin 4 head version with 3 double cabins a double singles cabin, alternatively a 2 double cabin and 2 double singles cabin is available. Crew space if a for 2 or 3 members aft. Estimated performance for the 80 Maestro is of a 31 knots top speed with double MTU 1823hp or alternatively a slower 28 knots performance with twin MTU 1660hp. Range is for 400 nautical miles with a cruising speed of 24 knots.

www.apreamare.it

New Model: Sunseeker 52 Manhattan

Sister hulled to the 52 Predator, the new 52 Manhattan presented during the last Southampton boat show takes the place of the 50 Manhattan model. As a Sunseeker, the new small Manhattan flybridge motor yacht of the range, follows the flowing aggressive profile which have always characterized the British builder, with the reassuring handling this maker is renowned for. The interior follows a three cabin layout with the ever spacious full beam owners cabin with full view windows. The new 52 Manhattan is in principle identical to the 52 Predator, with the extra of having an extra helm and entertaining area up top.

Technical Data:

LOA - 17.60 m (57.9ft) includes pulpit

Length Waterline - 13.11 m

Beam - 4.49 m

Draft - 1.26 m full load

Displacement - 24800 kg half load

Fuel Capacity - 2140 l

Water Capacity - 625 l

Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins, 2 heads, optional single crew cabin with head aft

Engines - 2 x 800hp

Speed - 32 knots max, 23 knots cruising

Range - 250 nautical miles

www.sunseeker.com

Projects: Riviera 3600 Sport Yacht Series II, Riviera 5800 Sport Yacht

Riviera improve the 3600 Sport Yacht, thanks to the Volvo IPS propulsion, giving a revolution to the lower deck accommodation layout making her one of the most spacious and comfortable 11 metres in the market today. So far the exterior lines of the small Sport Yacht model in the plans seem unchanged, although I hope for the addition of extra port holes in both staterooms, as the mid cabin will be very hot and dull if the above exterior lines are confirmed. Performance have not been quoted by the builder, but we expect the double Volvo's IPS 400 at 301 hp giving about 32 knots, similar performance as the Cummins 380hp used to provide but with less fuel consumption and easy docking manoeuvrability thanks to the joystick system by IPS. The Riviera 5800 Sport Yacht inherits the design principles of its predecessors, the award-winning 3600 and 4700 and the 4400 Sport Yachts, most notably the Al fresco lifestyle concept. The new Riviera 5800 Sport Yacht project takes luxury boating to a new level, with its four cabin three bathroom standard layout, something rare in a boat measuring around 17 metres with a full beam master stateroom, and the choice of a lower galley and aft crew cabin. A new digital switching system for DC power enables you to personalise your boat by selecting what mode you want, for example, select cruise or entertainment mode, and the appropriate circuits will be energised. The boat's beautiful, sleek lines match the state of the art propulsion system providing you with faster acceleration, higher top speed, better turning and manoeuvrability all with greater fuel efficiency. Massive interior and exterior entertaining areas combine with simple yet stylish stainless steel framed glass sliding door and the electric sunroof that adds that extra touch of the outdoors.

www.riviera.com.au

New Model: Pershing 80

An exuberant wind of change continues to blow up from the Adriatic coast, home of the internationally renowned Ferretti Group brand and world leading luxury motoryacht producer, Pershing. Over past weeks, the entire shipyard and Engineering Department have been absorbed in the delicate final stages of a major new project, the launch of the new Pershing 80. This new model, which has just been unveiled to the Pershing fans and friends, has inherited two very important qualities from the Pershing 72, the craft that enjoyed such remarkable commercial success and visibility in 2007 as well as winning numerous awards. The first is the craft’s vast range of high tech features and the second is its bright, sleek profile. Every single inch of the craft’s innovative 80 feet confirm the shipyard’s grand challenge to focus its know-how and enterprise on this demanding and prestigious segment and to continue to develop craft of increasingly major dimensions. Naturally without compromising any of the typical qualities, such as sports style, speed and control that have always distinguished Pershing yachts. The new Pershing 80’, brainchild of yacht designer Fulvio De Simoni, once again succeeds in offering owners exceptional performance. On the standard version, two powerful 2030hp MTU engines combine with ASD 15L surface propellers to guarantee a peak speed of 43 knots, whereas a faster version with two 2435hp MTU engines offers an incredible peak speed of 50 knots at 1/3 loaded displacement. Of particular note, is the yacht’s floor plan that has been both rationally and creatively designed with highly exclusive details, such as the pilot house, and the leather chairs, panels and tops specially crafted by Poltrona Frau who have once again partnered with Pershing on this splendid craft. But there are many other elements too that give this yacht an edge over its competitors in this increasingly crowded segment. First and foremost, the yacht’s construction process uses the special fibre glass vacuum moulding “Scrimp System”. Secondly, the boat boasts numerous highly exclusive features, such as the elegant slide away glass partition, designed in collaboration with Besenzoni. Originally used on the Pershing 72’, this feature has been further developed and now includes two separate sections that make the option of closing the cockpit off from the upper saloon even more modular. Alternatively the owner can choose to join these two environments together to create a huge and harmonious open space, all on the same level. This highly versatile area is completed by another special Pershing 80’ feature, the expandable-retractable hard top. The cockpit is also both incredibly spacious, and luxuriously finished to ensure it can be enjoyed without any disturbances whatsoever. The stern sundeck has been deliberately designed so it is completely independent from the opening of the spacious garage, which includes a foldaway platform for easy watertoys launching. Standards of comfort are increased also by the Genius gangplank, which doubles as a swimming ladder and a walkway onto the quay when the craft is moored. The dinette in the bows is also a totally new factor, especially when combined with the highly versatile, modular sundeck that also boasts a bimini top. This is another idea that allows owners to create an ideal context for relaxing in or for enjoying breakfast in complete privacy when the boat is moored at the stern. The craft’s typically megayacht concept and floor plan can also be seen in the area below decks. The galley, for example, has been separated from the saloon and placed below deck, next to the crew quarters to offer guests even more privacy. The exceptional large L-shaped galley is a comfortable, discreet area that is packed with hyper technological features and offers a choice of colour schemes. The night zone in both the three and four cabin version is a real gem in terms of comfort and design and boasts remarkable features such as the unique open-view maxi window in the Master Cabin situated in the centre of the boat. This window is a remarkably light and airy feature (thanks to the openable porthole set into the glass) in this elegant space, which has innumerable refined details, including a vanity cabinet top, bed head and handrail created by Poltrona Frau. The Pershing 80 therefore boasts absolute class not only in its interiors, but also in its precise and intransigent exteriors that are distinguished by their sleek, aggressive, modern, streamlined shape and design. With this craft Pershing has created a fabulous example of how its challenging philosophy continues to push back frontiers and offer owners and guests a new way to “surprise the future”. Now it's time for the wider public at the major international boat shows in Cannes, Montecarlo and Genoa to give the judgement on this new jewel in Pershing line of Sport Yachts.

Technical Data:

LOA - 24.50 m (80.5ft)

Length - 23.98 m

Beam - 5.50 m

Draft - 1.40 m

Displacement - 64 t (loaded)

Fuel Capacity - 5950 l

Water Capacity - 1300 l

Max Persons - 16

Accommodation - 4 cabins with 3 heads, 2 crew cabins with 1 head

Engines - 2 x MTU 16V2000M91 2030hp, 16V2000M93 2450hp

Propulsion - Arneson ASD15L Surface Drives

Speed - 43 knots with with 2030hp, 50 knots with 2450hp

Design - Fulvio De Simoni

Certification - CE A

www.pershing-yacht.com

Powerboat P1 - Cowes Torquay Cowes Cancelled, Sunseeker Retires

Powerboat P1, the commercial rights holder to the Cowes-Torquay-Cowes race, has announced with sadness its decision to cancel the event as a result of insufficient entries. The race organisers – the British Powerboat Racing Club, the Royal Yachting Association and Powerboat P1 - had hoped to resurrect the historic race after a three year break in response to requests from British powerboat racers. However, the number of entries received has made the event economically unviable and would fail to deliver a genuine and competitive sporting spectacle. The first Cowes-Torquay-Cowes powerboat race took place in 1961 and it is regarded as one of British offshore racing’s most celebrated and demanding events. The Cowes-Torquay-Cowes race does not form part of the Powerboat P1 World Championship, which comprises 14 races on three continents. The next round of the World Championship will be hosted by the historic port of Vigo on Spain’s Atlantic coast.

On another sad note Powerboat P1 Management has also been advised by Sunseeker Sales Group that the Team Sunseeker and the 11 Sunseeker Challenger boat will not be contesting the remaining three Grand Prix of the Sea events of the 2008 season. As a passionate my hope is to see Sunseeker back in the sea racing the races as soon as possible.

www.powerboatp1.com

New Model: Azimut 70

In the yearly event of the Azimut Benetti Group, the Yachting Gala which for this year was held in Viareggio, the world renowned yacht builder presented the new Azimut 70 of the new F series generation. Following the latest trends as started with the 43 in 2004, designer Righini and Turin yacht builder follow there renowned form following function design with minimal accents, presenting an ultra modern yacht. There is so far little details available but the pictures show the trademark huge Azimut integrated windows all over the yacht, with what we imagine a similar finished interior as used on the 58 launched during the 2007 Genoa boat show. New 70 has also a similar four cabin interior to the Azimut 68 Plus / Evolution it will go on and replace in the future, but with a more modern layout and some huge improvements of which is the separate galley which can open up on the saloon thanks to an electrically operated window, and all double cabins with in line berths. A striking feature for the new 70 is also the hull color, which for its debut carried an original metallic sky blue, a not seen before finish, following the trend with the green shown on the 58 during the Genoa 2008 presentation.

Technical Data:

LOA - 21.6 m (70.9ft)

Beam - 5.6 m

Displacement - 43 t

Fuel Capacity - 4200 l

Water Capacity - 1200 l

Accommodation - 8 berths in 4 cabins, 1 crew cabin berth

Engines - 2 x MAN 1360hp

Speed - 32 knots max, 28 knots estimated

Project - Righini, Azimut

www.azimutyachts.com