In less than a year, this stunning, over-thirty-year-old 52-meter Benetti has been revived through a meticulous refit led by architect Tommaso Spadolini.
Yacht Designer Giulia Grassi from the Supernova Design studio played a pivotal role, orchestrating the yacht's remarkable interior transformation. Extensive work encompassed a complete overhaul of the exterior profile, a redesign of common areas, replacement of specific steel plates on the hull, and a total engine rebuild. The project took place at IMS Shipyard in Toulon, France.
Tommaso Spadolini
Architect Tommaso Spadolini reflects on the journey: "The owner fell in love with this Benetti but envisioned refreshing it both technically and aesthetically – inside and out – while retaining its classic character, yet giving it a contemporary edge. Most importantly, he needed a yacht suitable for his large family." Thus began the transformation of the 1994 Benetti 52m, originally named Tommy, into the exclusive, modern Solafide.
Main saloon What distinguishes this refit isn’t merely the outcome but the astounding speed of execution. From initial discussions in July 2023 to approvals by December, and relaunch by April 2024, the team pulled off an incredible feat. Tommaso Spadolini and Giulia Grassi collaborated seamlessly with IMS Shipyard to achieve every refit objective.
Main saloon
Spadolini’s focus centered on modernizing the yacht’s exterior and technological upgrades. "Starting with the original cream color, we switched to white, incorporating dark stripes and stainless-steel grilles for a sleek appearance," Spadolini explains. Key modifications include transforming the main deck’s aft tender storage into a versatile lounge area, installing hatches, and modifying railings to integrate retractable side terraces. They also developed a well-equipped sundeck forward of the helm, including awnings and improved accessibility.
Owner's cabin
Rebuilding the twin 16-cylinder Deutz engines (each delivering 2,400 hp) posed a major challenge, requiring deck dismantling for their removal. Structural enhancements involved replacing select steel plates on the hull and aluminum panels on the superstructure. The sundeck was reinforced to handle helicopter operations, fitted with movable furniture, and emblazoned with an 'H'-marked teak floor.
Electrical systems, navigation aids, and connectivity were updated to match current standards, ensuring the yacht remained future-proof. The existing boat davits were retained for tender transport during extended trips.
Upper deck
Giulia Grassi faced the daunting task of balancing the yacht’s heritage with modern design innovations. "The owner sought increased seating capacity and better accommodation options," Grassi notes. To address these needs, they executed a comprehensive spatial reconfiguration, integrating custom-built furniture and rethinking partitions. For instance, the main deck dining area underwent a dramatic transformation, swapping built-in furnishings for a larger, family-friendly table. Outdoor zones benefited from tailored cushions and flexible furniture, significantly elevating comfort levels.
The main deck was decluttered by removing curtains and bulky fittings, creating an airy atmosphere. Customized seating arrangements, including a sofa with hidden storage and adaptable side tables, ensured ample seating for everyone. The dining room was enlarged by relocating the partition, introducing a striking white onyx floor section beneath the table, flanked by a mood-lighting backlit wall. Thoughtful mirror placement ensures unobstructed sea views from any vantage point.
The owner’s suite preserves its traditional charm while gaining subtle enhancements from prior improvements. The upper deck received substantial upgrades, converting the lounge into a multi-purpose guest cabin when not functioning as a media room. An additional VIP cabin was introduced, while the aft and flybridge areas were renovated with climate control and detachable furniture for helicopter landing compatibility.
Sun deck
"This Benetti 52m is now practically brand-new, boasting top speeds of 21 knots due to its streamlined, high-performance hull," Spadolini adds. "Despite modernization, we maintained a lightweight displacement below 500 tons – exactly 472 tons."
Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. Benetti designs, builds and sells composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. The fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom to meet all the needs of the market. Benetti belongs to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.
Credits: Benetti
Moonen Yachts has secured the sale of its seventh 37.4-meter Martinique model (YN205) through IYC brokers Matthew Stone and Josh Marshall. The transaction marks the second in-house sale since IYC became Moonen's global sales representative.The American buyer selected the Dutch-built yacht for its customizable layout and indoor-outdoor connectivity. Construction will now extend beyond the original four-week delivery timeline to accommodate owner-requested modifications, including a hot tub installation."This sale demonstrates Moonen's flexibility in meeting client needs," said Matthew Stone, IYC Managing Partner. "The yard stood out among six competitors for its balance of quality, comfort and safety."Designed by René van der Velden with naval architecture by Diana Yacht Design, the 345GT Martinique features Hollander Yacht Design interiors. The yacht will undergo sea trials in the Netherlands before delivery to the U.S. East Coast later this year.Richard Gray, IYC's Head of Sales UK, noted: "This transaction reflects the effective collaboration between IYC and Moonen Yachts in our global representation partnership."The Martinique series continues to attract buyers seeking semi-custom steel-hulled yachts with Dutch engineering. Current construction progress indicates on-schedule completion of the customized modifications prior to sea trials.Moonen Yachts is a yacht builder based in the Netherlands, and its first yacht was built in 1964 under the original yard name of De Ruiter. In 1981, the yard was renamed Moonen Shipyards. It’s launching its first vessel under new ownership: Alhena. In 2017 Moonen Shipyards changed into Moonen Yachts. With the help of strong vision, innovative technology and new designers, Moonen is once again becoming the market leader in 30m to 50m luxury yachts.Credits: Moonen Yachts
June 2, 2025
Turkish yacht builder Numarine has launched two new explorer yachts - the 37-meter 37XP (hull 18) and 26-meter 26XP (hull 27), with a 32.6-meter 32XP (hull 14) scheduled for June delivery. All models feature designs by Umberto Tagliavini (naval architecture) and Can Yalman (exterior/interior)."The XP Series remains one of the most successful explorer ranges in the industry," stated Numarine Chairman Ömer Malaz. "Our yachts from 22 to 47 meters combine stylish design with functional features including ample storage and noise reduction."37XPThe new 37XP flagship offers 362 GT volume and 6,000 nm range at 8 knots. Its layout includes seven guest cabins, with main deck master suite and upper deck VIP option. The 83 m² flybridge and 9-meter tender storage highlight its expedition capabilities.32XPThe 32XP model maintains its position as the series' original offering since 2017, with 4,000+ nm range and six-cabin configuration. The 26XP features four cabins and 3,000 nm range, with optional solar panels and lithium batteries.32XPAll three yachts utilize steel hulls with composite superstructures, emphasizing long-range cruising and onboard comfort. The launches precede the anticipated July 2025 debut of Numarine's new 40MXP model.26XPNumarine, a European high-performance motor-yacht shipyard headquartered in Istanbul, offers a range of yachts from 19 to 45 meters.Credits: Kerem Sanliman; Ryan Alexander; all provided by Numarine
June 2, 2025
Oyster Yachts has introduced its new 24-meter 805 sailing yacht, developed with Humphreys Yacht Design. The model features a twin-access swim platform, configurable interior layouts, and solar-powered hardtop.CEO Ashley Highfield confirmed first delivery for 2027. The yacht offers 3.4-meter or 2.7-meter keel options, with the latter complying with Mediterranean seagrass regulations.Former Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös joins as strategic advisor, stating: "Oyster is very similar to what Rolls-Royce is all about with its relentless striving for perfection."The 805 includes four convertible guest cabins and Oyster's largest sub-30-meter owner's suite. Standard features include ultra-thin marble surfaces and 3kW solar generation.Oyster Yachts was founded in 1973 by Richard Matthews. For 52 years the British brand has created the world’s finest luxury bluewater sailboats.Credits: Oyster Yachts
May 30, 2025
The 2025 ICOMIA Congress, hosted by Spain's ANEN in Palma de Mallorca, concluded yesterday after five days of meetings and events. The gathering, held concurrently with IFBSO's annual congress, brought together marine industry representatives, including Italy's delegation led by Andrea Razeto of the Italian Marine Industry Association.Key discussions centered on three committees chaired by Stefano Pagani Isnardi: the Technical Committee addressed upcoming revisions to the European Recreational Craft Directive; the Superyacht Division examined IMO greenhouse gas reduction proposals and French anchorage restrictions; while the new Trade and Market Intelligence Committee analyzed global tariff developments. ICOMIA has launched dedicated online resources for Posidonia meadow protection updates and tariff tracking.Frank Hugelmeyer (NMMA) was elected ICOMIA President, succeeding Darren Vaux, with Finnboat's Jarkko Pajusalo as Vice President. The board expanded to include representatives from Spain, Turkey, Sweden, and Australia alongside existing members.The 2026 Congress is scheduled for May 24-28 in Washington, D.C., hosted by NMMA.Credits: The Italian Marine Industry Association; Eugene Zhyvchik/Unsplash
May 30, 2025
Cantieri di Pisa has commenced construction of a 40-meter full-custom yacht at its shipyard, marking the occasion with a traditional coin ceremony. The steel-hulled vessel, featuring an aluminum and composite superstructure, was sold several months ago and is scheduled for delivery in 2025.Designed by Antonio Luxardo, the four-deck yacht accommodates six guest cabins and six crew cabins – an unusual configuration for its size. The layout includes an owner's stateroom with private terrace on the main deck, four guest cabins and a VIP cabin on the lower deck, plus crew quarters on the bridge deck. Two saloons, multiple relaxation areas, and an aft Jacuzzi complete the amenities.The yacht's technical specifications include a sub-500 GT volume and propulsion by twin 1,550 HP MAN V12 engines, projected to deliver a 15-knot top speed and 2,000-nautical-mile range. A lateral-launch garage will accommodate a 6.6-meter tender and water toys.Engineering was developed by Studio Sa.Ma.Re Design with support from Luxardo and Optima Design. The construction utilizes vacuum-bonded composites to reduce weight and improve efficiency. The yacht will carry Bureau Veritas Charter class certification.The coin ceremony, attended by the French owner and shipyard representatives, follows maritime tradition dating to Roman times. Cantieri di Pisa's management emphasized the project combines the yard's signature design elements – including distinctive black and white air intakes – with customized owner requirements.The yacht's charter-focused configuration includes extensive storage, a full galley, and entertainment systems for global cruising. Construction is underway at Cantieri di Pisa's facility in Pisa, Italy.Cantieri di Pisa shipyard was founded in 1945 on the river Arno, the Tuscan shipyard became famous for its planing motoryachts, such as the Akhir and Kitalpha series designed by Pierluigi Spadolini. Since 2021 Enrico Gennasio is the new owner of Cantieri di Pisa.Credits: Cantieri di Pisa
May 30, 2025