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This third installment examines the key decisions leading up to
the launch of the custom 52-meter Benetti Latinou. Look for a full
feature on the motor yacht in an upcoming issue.
With hull FB 237, Latinou, rapidly approaching completion in time for her scheduled
April delivery, we thought it was time to get some feedback from her owner who
has made the journey to the Benetti shipyard in Livorno, Italy, a couple of
times a month since the project got under way in 2005. Having chartered various
yachts, both full- and semi-displacement, for eight years or so before deciding
on a new build, the European owner approached Fraser Yachts with the benefit of
hindsight. | Click on the Spec tab at top to see complete list of resources. |
"I’ve been closely involved in the build process from the
beginning and had very clear ideas about what I wanted," he explains. "Having a
direct relationship with both the yard and the brokerage (Azimut-Benetti joined
forces with Fraser Yachts in 2004) was an important element for me. This
close-knit cooperation between broker and builder has been a key factor in the
successful outcome of the project.
"Our final choice," he continues, "was dictated by two major
factors: safety and comfort. We wanted a long-range vessel that was also
suitable for chartering."
His desire for comfort, for example, dictated his decision to
incorporate the private balconies in the master suite to port and starboard. The
addition of an elevator serving all six deck levels was a nod in the
direction of the charter market.
Custom projects tend to stretch during the design phase as
the yard battles to incorporate the owner’s multifarious requests, but early on
Latinou was fixed at 52 meters (171 feet).
"Of course, there is a question of cost involved," says her
owner. "But I decided that the optimum size to meet my needs was between
fifty-two and fifty-three meters. Everything I want in a transatlantic yacht
can be incorporated into a yacht of that size."
While Latinou will spend much of her time as a charter
vessel, her owner is clearly looking forward to making good use of the yacht
with his family during the low season.
"I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the build process," he says. "It’s been a
fascinating adventure and an opportunity to live my dream."
Contact Benetti at +39 0584 3821.
www.benettiyachts.it
 On the Horizon: House Calls
August-September 2007
March 2007
Timely Gratification
Med-Made Magic
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