It seems only fitting that the first announcement of a new Benetti model that features an exterior designed by Malcolm McKeon Yacht Design and an FM Architettura-designed interior took place at an intimate party in Antibes as the Cannes Yachting Festival kicked off the boat show season last week. It was fitting because I think the design is “intimate” in a cool way.
They call it B.Neos. We’re told the name comes from the Greek word néos, meaning “new, young and fresh.” And it appears the name was chosen to specifically focus on a new generation of superyacht owners who are looking for a new breed of superyacht. A superyacht with soul, perhaps?
Now, don’t get me wrong. This new generation of superyacht owners still want all the privacy, flexibility, luxury, creativity, exclusivity and style that comes from owning a very large yacht. But, I think this segment of the market is looking for a cleaner, simpler, less formal and dare I say, more “intimate” superyacht than has been available in the past.
More like the way some younger HNWI’s live in houses where the kitchen is big and comfortable rather than being hidden away. This new generation isn’t as focused on keeping the crew hidden either. They want yachts with human proportions that offer intelligent use of space. And they want to escape to the sea with their family and friends in an elegant and understated ways.
That’s exactly what Giovanna Vitelli, Chair of the Azimut|Benetti Group hopes to achieve with this new design. “B.Neos represents a new approach that looks ahead,” she said at that invite-only party in Antibes. “We chose a leading designer from the sailing segment to bring the sleek proportions of sailing yachts to a motor yacht, avoiding the pursuit of volume at any cost. From sailing, B.Neos also inherits the pleasure of silence at anchor, made possible by hybrid technology and an essential approach to interiors, distinct from the redundant opulence seen oftentimes in certain yachting segments.”
This is just a teaser and it’s still in the early stages, but I’ll be watching this one. Could be a sign of things to come.