SAILING WITH KINDNESS
Azimut’s new Seadeck series is based on a more conscious and intimate relationship with nature, aiming to protect it and place it at the heart of the on-board experience. The debut model of the series, the Seadeck 6 represents this new iteration of yachting by fostering sustainability and a lifestyle based upon well-being
by Bryony McCabe- ph. courtesy by Azimut Yachts
Azimut’s Seadeck series, which debuts with the Seadeck 6, strikes harmonious balance with the marine environment. This is thanks to a holistic approach that combines weight reduction, innovative naval architecture, hybrid system and sustainable materials
Designed by Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez, the light and contemporary interiors have a sustainable theme, including carpets on the lower deck made from recycled plastic or fishing nets. The open-plan main saloon features both a lounging area, compact galley and the helm station.
Floor-to-ceiling windows offer uninterrupted views of the ocean and are fitted with anti-UV glass to reduce the need for air conditioning. A glass opening in the bulwark means you can still see the sea when sitting
As yachting transitions towards a more sustainable future, the way owners and guests exist on board is being redefined. This evolution is epitomised by the Seadeck 6, which has been hailed as the most sustainable yacht Azimut has ever produced. Yet while technological innovation can often outpace design, Azimut was careful to develop the onboard spaces in accordance with its environmental credentials. The result is a yacht that embraces a gentler way of yachting, focused on the well-being of the environment as well as those on board. To fulfill the Seadeck series’ unwavering commitment to reducing CO2 emissions and energy consumption, Azimut combines weight reduction and an efficient hull with electrification technology. Applying its extensive experience in carbon fibre construction, Azimut laminated 40 per cent of the Seadeck 6’s surface in this lightweight and highperformance material. Seadeck is also the first series of hybrid yachts for families and the Seadeck 6 introduces the debut of an innovative system that allows both zero emissions at anchor and cruising with the generator off. This system, called Mild Hybrid Zero Emission Hotel
Mode, is based on a 42-kWh lithium battery pack and an alternator connected to one of the three engines. Emissions were further lowered by the optimised naval architecture developed by the Azimut Benetti Group R&D department and NAMES.
“Seadeck is a new starting point for future generations,” comments Giovanna Vitelli, Chair of Azimut Benetti Group. “We wish to chart a course that will be an inspiration for the entire industry, so that the theme of respect for the environment is interpreted – as it is for Seadeck – with a concrete approach made up of investment, technological research, and the courage to introduce a new lifestyle that embraces the sea.”
Where possible the Seadeck 6 swaps traditional materials for sustainably sourced alternatives of either natural or recycled origins, all without compromising on performance, style or comfort. For example, the natural and sustainably harvested MarineCork by Sace Components replaces traditional teak decking, while the silk-like moquette carpeting on the lower deck is made of repurposed raw materials (rPET) that can
be recycled multiple times over. This ethos penetrates through to the core of the yacht, with 30 per cent of the Seadeck 6’s skeleton also made of rPET, totaling approximately 15,000 recovered plastic bottles, in lieu of traditional PVC.
To ensure the onboard environments complement the Seadeck 6’s intrinsic link with nature, Alberto Mancini was entrusted with the exterior design. One of the most prominent ways this was achieved was through the reimagination of the stern area, which centres around the so-called ‘Fun Island’. Here, guests are immersed in the natural environment with the sea surrounding them on all sides. On the interior, the Seadeck 6 can accommodate up to six people across three guest cabins. Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez were appointed for the interior design due to their pioneering approach to designing for a conscious world – a philosophy that respects both human and environmental elements. The pair were, therefore, the perfect match for the Seadeck project and they relished the challenge of finding new solutions that were at the same time contemporary, light and conscious, working exclusively with recycled, recyclable and natural materials. “Like the carpet made from plastic recovered from the sea, which feels like wool,” says Rodriguez. “We like to think that we’ve taken
Exterior designer Alberto Mancini has reimagined the aft deck area, which centres around what Azimut calls the ‘Fun Island’ – a space dedicated to tranquillity and being in total contact with the sea thanks to side opening terraces on both port and starboard. The stepped deck is fitted with cork, a sustainable alternative to teak that is not only great for grip but dries quickly and doesn’t get hot like wooden decks
something ugly from the sea and given it a new shape and beauty.”
Warm light plays a pivotal role on board, with ribbed oak panelling creating dynamic patterns of light and shadow across the interiors. This material not only provides luxurious surface texture but contributes to the longevity of the boat thanks to its non-scratch and durable qualities. The brise soleil on the ceiling mirrors this ribbing effect, layering more patterns of light and shadow that are accentuated by the dappled reflections of the water. The effect is a sense of immense tranquillity for guests . www.azimutyachts.com