The Grande 36M, the latest work from the Italian yacht builders Azimut, has captured the coveted Best of Show award at the 64th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), reaffirming the brand’s status as a pioneer in the luxury boating world. FLIBS, organized by Informa Markets and owned by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF), has gained renown as the world’s largest in-water boat show.
Making its American debut, the Grande 36M features innovative designs that create barrier-free environments, including the concept of the semi-walkaround upper deck, which runs on the same level from the stern almost to the tip of the bow.
This revolutionizes a traditional layout and creates an area that didn’t exist prior to yachts this size. Adding to the barrier-free lifestyle experience, the glazed surfaces in the sky lounge open and disappear completely from view, turning the deck into a huge space from which to scan the horizon. The exterior design is in the unmistakable style of Alberto Mancini, and the interior design is by Achille Salvagni.
Eco-Friendly Technology
Grande 36M also forms part of Azimut’s family of Low Emission Yachts, with the high-efficiency D2P® Displacement-to-Planing hull, designed by P.L. AUSONIO Naval Architecture together with the Shipyard’s R&D office. Its innovative technology uses carbon fiber to reduce the weight of the superstructure. These design elements make it possible to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 30%, at both slow cruising and high speeds, compared to boats of the same weight and size with a traditional chine hull.
Recognition and Future
“”We are honored to win the Best of Show award for the Grande 36M, recognizing Azimut’s globally renowned commitment to ongoing design and innovation research”,” said Federico Ferrante, President of Azimut Benetti Americas, “In fact, this model, premiering here at FLIBS, is already drawing incredible interest, and this award is the best way to welcome her successful debut in the U.S. market.”
The Best of Show award celebrates innovative boat models showcased at FLIBS, emphasizing elements such as performance, design, technology, and architecture. A distinguished panel of independent judges, including the world-renowned nautical designer Dan Lenard with Nuvolari Lenard Designs, Captain Kerry of “Below Deck Adventure,” former Nascar driver, commentator, and team owner, Michael Waltrip, and former professional motocross “GOAT” and commentator, Ricky Carmichael, selected the winner from among eight finalists.
The other notable finalists included Benetti 34M Oasis, the Limitless XLV 45′, Princess Y95, Ferretti Wallywhy 150, the electric motor Catamaran Sunreef 80 ECO, Cigarette 52 Thunder, and the Steeler 60S.
(Azimut Grande 36M Steals the Spotlight: Best of Show Winner at FLIBS – barchemagazine.com – October 2023)
