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Viareggio, March 18, 2024 – The prestigious Italian yacht builder, Benetti, celebrated a significant addition to its illustrious fleet with the traditional slide launch of the M/Y “Papa Joe”, the latest Diamond 44M model, on March 16. This event marked a continued appreciation of nautical traditions at their historic shipyard in Viareggio.
The launch ceremony, performed on the historic 56-metre inclined slipway—a testament to Benetti’s commitment to maintaining maritime heritage—was attended by notable figures including Benetti's top management, the mayor of Viareggio, and port authorities. The event underscored the shipyard’s dedication to its roots, with the slide launch method harking back to the early days of shipbuilding, an evocative nod to the grand launches of yesteryears.
Design and Specifications of M/Y “Papa Joe”
M/Y “Papa Joe” stands out with its majestic presence. Measuring 44.06 meters in length and with a beam of 9.16 meters, this vessel combines grandeur with innovative design, tailored to enhance the maritime experience. The yacht’s gross tonnage is 471, and it can house up to 12 guests in five staterooms, with additional quarters for eight crew members, ensuring a balanced staff-to-guest ratio for optimal service.
The yacht’s design was a collaborative effort between the owner and the Benetti team, with external styling by the renowned Giorgio Maria Cassetta and interiors by Benetti’s own Style Department. The design philosophy reflects a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, emphasizing spaciousness and comfort. The interiors are marked by a sophisticated palette of light and neutral tones, accented with touches of turquoise, burgundy, and a distinctive Levanto red marble.
The layout of M/Y “Papa Joe” is a masterclass in maximizing space and comfort. The beach area at the transom is elegantly equipped with a lounge sofa and bar, perfect for relaxation or entertaining. The garage is spaciously designed to accommodate a 6-meter tender and two jet skis, supporting a variety of water activities.
The Main Deck features a large formal dining area and an impressive owner's suite complete with all modern comforts and an adjoining office area, reflecting the owner’s need for a mobile yet functional workspace. The deck ensures privacy for guests and crew alike, with separate footpaths and a Rack Room that integrates the yacht’s technical systems discreetly.
The Upper Deck is a haven of entertainment and relaxation, featuring a Skylounge that doubles as a cinema room and generous exterior spaces including a sunpad, a U-shaped sofa, and a custom hydromassage pool, making it an ideal spot for guests to gather and enjoy the panoramic sea views.
Performance and Capabilities
Powered by two MAN V12-1400 engines, M/Y “Papa Joe” achieves a maximum speed of 15 knots, with a cruising range of up to 4,100 nautical miles at 11 knots, allowing for extensive maritime journeys without frequent refueling stops. The yacht is also equipped with state-of-the-art CMC stabilizers and a bow thruster to ensure smooth sailing and easy maneuvering in various marine conditions.
Founded in 1873, Benetti has a rich heritage in yacht building. The shipyard specializes in luxury yachts and is part of the Azimut|Benetti Group, which is recognized worldwide for its extensive range of models, including Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now, B.Century, and Custom. Each yacht is a unique creation, meticulously crafted to meet the individual needs of its owners, making Benetti a global leader in the luxury yachting industry.
The launch of M/Y “Papa Joe” not only reflects Benetti’s ongoing innovation in yacht design but also their unwavering dedication to celebrating and preserving the maritime traditions that are at the heart of their brand. This new vessel promises to deliver an unparalleled yachting experience, setting new standards in luxury, performance, and comfort on the high seas.
