32m Benetti Sounion II completes seven-month refit

The 31.6-metre classic Benetti motor yacht Sounion II has been given a new lease on life after emerging from a seven-month refit in Naples. 

First launched in 1969, the completed works saw Frederic Mechiche's original interiors brought up to date by Anouska Hempel, who infused a subtle Asian influence with muted tones and contrasting black accents into the refreshed design. The additional use of Japanese screens, leather baskets and antique Louis Vuitton trunks gives the yacht a vintage feel in keeping with its traditional exterior, but with an elevated touch of elegance and sophistication. 

The owner's brief also included minor reconfigurations to Sounion II's internal layout, which now includes a main deck saloon that has been optimised for an open floorplan, a new dedicated study and an outdoor cinema fitted onto the sundeck.

Speaking on the yacht's refreshed look, Hempel described her inspiration as a melding of East and West influences designed to highlight Sounion II's distinctive presence on the water. “Sounion II is wonderfully unique," she said. "I always enjoy playing with this crossover of cultures, history and design. You have the traditional classical elements of truly beautiful Italian style folded in with the discipline of an Asian influence. The symbiosis of both and the balance between the two make Sounion II truly magical.”

In addition to the new interior styling, the 2023 refit also included several engineering upgrades such as a complete overhaul of the yacht's AC, navigational and water maker systems, continuing off of previous maintenance works from 2022 that included a new 5G Wi-Fi system.

Currently listed for sale with Moravia Yachting, the broker described Sounion II as a "characterful yacht" embodying "all the timeless style of these canoe-sterned classics whilst offering an owner and guests all the comfort and amenities associated with the luxury superyacht lifestyle."