The first 44-metre model from Benetti's new "Class" range has launched in Viareggio and christened Juno's 7. Delivery is expected in February 2025.
She was sold by Northrop & Johnson in 2023 just days after the Italian yachting giant lifted the wraps on the flagship model, which is now the yard's largest GRP construction. Prior to this addition, the Class range was comprised of the Motopanfilo 37M and the new 44-metre bears some of the same classic design features.
Exterior and interior design is the work of Giorgio M. Cassetta and the model is defined by its clean lines and four spacious decks. Uncluttered interiors and "innovative" use of materials are designed to create a "relaxing" and informal atmosphere. This includes the use of large, transparent surfaces, like the mirrors on the hull sides in the main saloon which reflect the light and the water and give the appearance of a brighter space.
"We worked on an infinite number of details and, as a result, this boat’s interiors are something absolutely new compared with what we’re used to seeing on a yacht this size," said Giorgio M. Cassetta.
In addition to this, trowelled resin was chosen for the bathroom surfaces instead of marble, and eco-focused, FSC-certified wood was incorporated throughout – with antique elm used for the interior flooring on all decks and striped ash being the choice for the walls.
The yacht has been conceived with a clever layout and generous storage capacity that would make it suitable for long, safe cruises. Accommodation across the four-deck yacht is for 12 guests across six cabins, including a full-beam master suite with office space. Low-profile bulwarks offer direct views of the water from the lounge on the main deck and, above, the upper deck seats 10 around its dining table.
Adhering to the owner's brief, who loves "boundless space and relaxing in open water", the yacht houses a foredeck pool furnished with seating and sun loungers – an ideal space from which to admire unobstructed panoramic views.
Meanwhile, on the upper deck, guests can find the helm station and the generous interior living space that extends outdoors in the stern, with an extra VIP cabin as an option. Up top, the sundeck provides over 102 square metres of space for dining, sunbathing or enjoying a drink at the bar.
A further four guest cabins and crew area are found on the lower deck. The beach club is a versatile space, while the garage on the port side ensures hassle-free launch and recovery of the tender and water toys.
Power derives from a pair of MAN units rated 1,400 HP, delivering a top speed of 15 knots and a range of 4,100 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 11 knots.
Speaking on the yacht's launch, Benetti's sale director Daniela Petrozzi said: "This is an important moment for Benetti because the first Class 44M has touched the water. This yacht is our fibreglass flagship and represents Benetti's excellence and tradition combined with a modern interpretation, the result of the careful work of Cassetta Yacht Designers, who have been able to renew the external lines and reinterpret the style of the interiors with great skills."
This follows the news in October when the first Benetti B.Yond 57M superyacht was sold "just weeks" after the model's official presentation at the Monaco Yacht Show.
Read More/First Benetti B.Yond 57M superyacht sold