SPORTY ITALIAN
From the largest luxury yacht builder in the world, Azimut, their 51 Atlantis model is an impressive luxury sports yacht that perfectly balances performance, comfort, and sleek design. The first unit recently arriving in Auckland this summer.
Azimut Yachts is an Italian luxury yacht manufacturer, renowned for producing high-end, stylish, and technologically advanced yachts for the global market. The company was founded in 1969 by the late Paolo Vitelli in the city of Avigliana, Italy. Now with five production yards in Italy, Azimut has since become the world’s leading yacht brand, known for crafting sophisticated vessels with cutting-edge design and exceptional performance.
The company now boasts a range of 27 different models across seven ‘collections’ , the largest boat the company now produces being a 44 metre of which one has been ordered by a New Zealand buyer. Add to that, Azimut also owns Benetti, which builds yachts from 34 metres through to over 100 metres.
Azimut is known for its elegant and contemporary designs, which blend modern aesthetics with classic nautical elements. The company works with renowned exterior and interior designers, including the likes of Alberto Mancini, M2 Atelier, and NEO (who have designed 51), to ensure that its yachts are both luxurious and functional.
Like the rest of the Azimut range, their Atlantis collection which consists of this 51 and smaller 45 model, is known for its bold, aggressive looks and high-performance features, this vessel is an ideal choice for those who want both style and functionality on the water.
This particular example, has freshly arrived in New Zealand, pre-sold to a repeat Azimut customer who stepped up from the smaller 45 Atlantis model. The brand has established itself as one of the top selling European brands in New Zealand.
“The brand does strike a chord with buyers here in New Zealand,” says Azimut Yachts NZ Brand Manager, David Hawke.
“I think New Zealanders are more aware of luxury brands and products and we’re seeing that with the uptake of the number of new late model Azimut’s now in New Zealand. They are more aware of international style and design trends, but also the shipyards ability to blend cutting edge technology with Italian style.”
“A lot of our clients are now onto their second or third Azimut’s, one has just ordered their fifth from us.”
OUTDOOR DESIGN
What strikes you first is the exterior. The boat features sharp lines and an angular, dynamic profile. Its large, expansive windows and sleek lines give it a modern, aerodynamic feel that stands out in any marina.
The Azimut 51 Atlantis is designed with a spacious and functional layout, optimized for socializing, relaxation, and enjoyment. One of the standout features of the Azimut 51 Atlantis is its attention to outdoor living. The aft deck is designed to provide an inviting space for al fresco dining or lounging. A large retractable roof in the cockpit area will add extra light and ventilation if needed, as will opening the windows on either side.
A cockpit canopy/enclosure has been added to this boat on its arrival, which is easily fitted when the boat is not in use, but also encloses the boat nicely for winter boating excursions. The cockpit area is also air conditioned – ideal to maximise those brisk but sunny winter days.
There is a large dining table with comfortable seating, perfect for hosting guests or enjoying meals together. The aft deck seamlessly integrates with the swim platform, making it easy to access the water for a swim or other water sports activities. The platform can lower down to a depth of 1.2m, and creates a nice ‘beach club’ setting, and also aids with the launching of the tender or a PWC should you wish.
Azimut also provides a variety of options for guests to enjoy the water. The yacht’s design includes a tender garage which is rare for a sport style yacht of this size, where you can store a small tender or a personal watercraft. The owner of this Azimut 51 has a TruKit inflatable dinghy with electric tiller motor in the garage, while he plans to carry a SeaDoo Spark PWC on the hydraulic lifting platform.
On the bow, you’ll find a spacious sunbathing area which you can access via side passages which are wide and safe,- this forward area is ideal for soaking up the sun while at anchor. A retractable bimini shade can be added as an option.
In fact, facing the classic C-shaped sofa is a second one, which can be split if needed to form two poufs, arranged around the dining table, creating a fully-appointed dining area.
Next to the table there is enough space for a bar, a cooler, an ice-maker and a sink which can be fitted into the modular unit as an option. The helm has two adjustable seats for the skipper, and co-pilot.
LUXURY DOWNSTAIRS LIVING
The interior of the yacht is divided into three primary areas: the main salon, the galley, and the cabins. The main salon is bright and airy, with large windows that let in natural light and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding water. It’s an ideal space for socialising or relaxing, with ample seating and entertainment systems available for guests.
The galley, situated to port, is a well-appointed and fully equipped, perfect for preparing meals while on the water. It features modern appliances, ample counter space, and smart storage solutions, ensuring that everything you need for a comfortable stay is within easy reach.
In terms of accommodation, the 51 Atlantis features three beautifully appointed cabins: an owners cabin forward with its own ensuite bathroom and two guest cabins aft. The master suite is spacious and features a full-sized bed, plenty of storage, and large windows that provide excellent views across the water. The guest cabins are equally well-appointed, with comfortable sleeping arrangements (one with two singles, another with a double) each offering high levels of privacy. The design of the cabins maximizes space, ensuring that guests can enjoy their time on board without feeling cramped.
The bathrooms are equally luxurious, with modern fixtures, stylish finishes, and full showers. With a 450L water tank, there is also provision to fit a water maker should you wish.
There’s a sense of sophistication in every corner of the yacht, offering a level of comfort that surpasses typical expectations for a vessel of this size. Azimut Yachts offers limited customization options for the Atlantis 51. Essentially, being a production boat, you can’t change the general layout of the boat, you can however choose from a range of finishes and upholstery choices.
PERFOMANCE
Performance is at the core of the Azimut 51 Atlantis. Powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS800 600hp engines, the yacht is capable of reaching impressive speeds of up to 35 knots. The IPS system offers efficient fuel consumption and excellent manoeuvrability, especially at low speeds. The joystick control enhances handling, allowing for precise docking and navigation, even in tight spaces.
The advanced hull design and stabilization systems provide excellent stability, even in choppy waters, allowing the yacht to cruise comfortably. Having been on other Azimut’s the advanced hull design and heavy duty construction (the 51 weighs 22,000kg), means they are more than capable in rougher conditions.
Whether you’re navigating through busy marinas or cruising at full speed across the open sea, the Azimut 51 Atlantis delivers a responsive and enjoyable driving experience.
The Volvo engines kick it on to the plane with urgency but remain smooth and refined, and amazingly quiet, onboard we could not believe just how quiet the engines were. Though its steering is light, positive and responsive. The boat’s ability to cruise between 18 and 32 knots, is most appealing with some very impressive fuel figures.
At the helm, the 51 features the Garmin/Volvo Penta Glass Cockpit system which integrates all of the vessels onboard systems along with engine information, Humphree auto trim control, GPS/Chartplotter, sonar and radar – all customisable via the dual touchscreens.
A Fusion multi zone stereo system is fitted, and though not optioned on this boat, TV’s can be fitted in the cabins, saloon and even the cockpit.
CONCLUSION
The Azimut 51 Atlantis is a superb yacht that offers a balance of speed, comfort, style, and innovation with superb build quality and finishes. Its sleek and modern design, combined with the power of the Volvo Penta IPS engines, makes it a thrilling vessel to pilot, while the luxurious interior and ample outdoor spaces provide a comfortable and sophisticated environment for guests.
Whether you’re coastal cruising, hosting a gathering on the aft deck, or relaxing in the well-appointed cabins, the Azimut 51 Atlantis provides an exceptional experience.
The combination of cutting-edge technology, superior craftsmanship, and a sleek aesthetic ensures that the Atlantis 51 is not only a stunning yacht but also an incredibly practical and enjoyable vessel for long-term ownership. For anyone seeking the ultimate yachting experience, the Azimut 51 Atlantis is a compelling choice that is sure to impress.
SPECIFICATIONS
Designer Azimut Yachts / NEO Design
LOA 16.18m
Beam 4.55m
Displacement 22,000kg
Max Speed Up to 35 knots
Cruise Up to 26 Knots
Construction GRP
Fuel Capacity 1500L
Water Capacity 450L
Engines 2 x Volvo IPS 800 / 600hp
PERFORMANCE DATA
RPM KNOTS LPH RANGE
1200 9.4 23 540
2000 15.5 90 220
2600 26 188 180
2800 27.2 199 180
3087 32 242 170
