Fort Lauderdale, often dubbed as the ‘Venice of America’, witnessed yet another opulent addition to its illustrious waters as the Grande 36M from Azimut, a renowned Italian yacht builder, graced the 64th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS). This magnificent superyacht didn’t just mark its territory but stole the spotlight by receiving the coveted Best of Show award, solidifying Azimut’s status as an avant-garde force in the luxury maritime sphere.
One need only to gaze upon the Grande 36M to understand why it’s being lauded as an epitome of luxury and innovation. Its revolutionary design erases barriers, such as its semi-walkaround upper deck, stretching seamlessly from stern to almost the tip of the bow, a concept unheard of for yachts of this stature. This ingenious layout creates an unchartered vantage point, transforming traditional naval architecture.
Moreover, with glazed surfaces that morph and retract to offer unobstructed panoramic views, the deck transforms into a vast horizon-gazing platform. This unique design is the brainchild of Alberto Mancini, known for his impeccable flair in exterior design, complemented by Achille Salvagni’s ultra-luxe interiors, making the Grande 36M a masterpiece both inside and out.
Yet, the Grande 36M is more than just a luxury statement. At its core, it is a vessel reflecting contemporary concerns. As part of Azimut’s Low Emission Yachts initiative, the yacht sports the high-efficiency D2P® Displacement-to-Planing hull. Coupled with the smart usage of carbon fiber to achieve weight reduction and the proficient design of P.L. AUSONIO Naval Architecture in tandem with the Shipyard’s R&D, this superyacht stands tall as a beacon of environmental responsibility, slashing CO2 emissions by a staggering 30%.
Federico Ferrante, President of Azimut Benetti Americas, couldn’t hide his pride, stating that the award underscored Azimut’s unwavering commitment to research, design, and innovation, which is globally acclaimed. Furthermore, Phil Purcell, CEO/President of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, reiterated the significance of this accolade, confirming FLIBS’s mission to continuously redefine the standards of maritime brilliance.
However, determining the crème de la crème was no easy task. The Best of Show panel, boasting global luminaries such as Dan Lenard of Nuvolari Lenard Designs and Michael Waltrip, a former NASCAR stalwart, had to make the arduous decision of selecting the Grande 36M amidst eight spectacular finalists. These included the Benetti 34M Oasis, the Sunreef 80 ECO with its electric motor, and the awe-inspiring Steeler 60S.
Andrew Doole, President of U.S. Boat Shows with Informa Markets, encapsulated the sentiments of the event, inviting everyone to partake in the maritime renaissance unfolding at FLIBS. With Azimut’s Grande 36M as the pièce de résistance, it’s evident that the world of luxury yachting is embarking on an exhilarating journey, pushing boundaries and setting unprecedented benchmarks.
In a world increasingly tilted towards virtual realities and digital landscapes, the Grande 36M is a tactile reminder of humanity’s enduring passion for the high seas, for luxury, and for the relentless pursuit of perfection.
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