02/07/2010 - Atlantis 48: the Open Type. The new paradigm of the open of the Azimut-Benetti Group
The new Atlantis 48 that will debut at Cannes' Festival de la Plaisance in September will inaugurate the renewal of the Atlantis sport cruiser range.
The main deck extends on a single level from the sunbathing area in the stern to the helm station. The large up&down swim platform is electrically operated and makes it possible to launch the tender or jet-ski, freeing the cockpit of the need for a garage and resulting in exceptional storage capacity (1700 liters).
There are three large sunbathing areas, strategically located forward, aft and alongside the steering console to ensure the necessary privacy but without barriers: the gangways, for the first time covered with teak, are wide and well protected all the way aft by the high guard rail, while the cockpit is kept as free as possible to facilitate passage and ensure full usability of spaces and maximum conviviality.
The walkable space is increased without any decrease in amenities. The cockpit is roomy and comfortable; eight can dine at the large teak table, served by a large C-shaped sofa. On the starboard bulkhead is a long (2.5 m) bar unit equipped with a grill, 80-liter fridge, icemaker, steel sink, convenient pantry spaces, and a 26" retractable television in a completely waterproof housing.
The aft sunpad can be converted into a forward-facing seat by simply raising the back. Behind it there is still sufficient space for a person lying down.
Also the hardtop, besides being a distinctive, sporty design element, responds to precise functionality criteria. The elegant structure is open to the rear and on the sides, providing extensive protection that nevertheless ensures airiness and an absence of barriers, thus fully espousing the open philosophy of the design. As explained by Filippo Salvetti and Marco Biaggi, who together with the shipyard's technical department sign off on the new design of the Atlantis range, "for the exteriors we worked a lot on the hardtop, trying not to make it as closed as you see it on other boats. The part of the roll bar in fiber glass that juts toward the bow combines aesthetic and functional features: it accentuates the boat's plucky nature, provides added protection, and holds the canvas of the awning when the roof is open."
Style and functionality as allies: the interpretive key to the design is right here. The boat's streamlined, sporty line leaves the livability of the cockpit and interiors fully intact. Below, rational use of spaces results in a large dinette, a complete galley and two functional cabins with above-average heights, always between 1.95 and 2 meters.
Placed amidship, the owner's cabin is full beam, very spacious and bright thanks to the large windows on the two sides. The large, rectangular bed (like the one at home!) is positioned in the middle of the cabin. There are two heads on board, both with separate shower stall.
Atlantis 48 confirms and optimizes the range's excellent sailing qualities. The new-concept underbody has been further refined with specific studies on deadrise angles and waterlines to improve behavior and maneuverability even in moderate seas. The two 600 hp Cummins QSC 8.3 engines ensure brilliant performances, with a top speed of 35 knots. |