Board via the teak swim platform and ascend the gentle steps, and you’re confronted by a humongous sun pad-cum-settee. The large table folds like an origami paper sculpture into different shapes for dining or cocktails but is supported on rather industrial stainless-steel legs. In the down position with a filler cushion, the settee becomes a pad for sun-broiling several guests at once. Nearby is a cleverly hidden slide-out barbecue and a hidden wet bar.
The salon doors may not be one of the Seven Wonders of the World, but they’re close. All of the four panels slide out of the way, opening the salon fully to the cockpit for alfresco living. But here’s the zinger: To meet European regulations, there has to be a step between cockpit and salon to keep water from entering. Azimut wanted a flat sole from inside to out. The solution: Create a deep trough to catch any water, cover it with a stylish teak grating, and then plumb drains to carry the water overboard. The CE inspectors were happy, and Azimut had its step-free entry. Slick.
Once inside, a pair of settees run along each side as a conversation area, and dominating the salon just forward is what the Italians charmingly call “the lunch area.” This elegant table seats six (eight with an extension) and our test 72S had gorgeous leather seats. On each side of the centerline table are leather-topped buffets with stowage underneath, and the oversize windows provide a spectacular view in all directions.
Once you’ve gathered your guests around the table, you’re ready for the pièce de résistance: At the touch of a button, the entire overhead slides open. This sunroof was wonderful in the middle of the day, and I can only imagine how it would be for dinner under the stars. Definitely a wow factor!
