Imagine a peaceful holiday sailing the pristine waters of the Caribbean or Mediterranean, enjoying sun and breeze, the smell of the sea and the endless blue of the horizon; choosing on occasions a secluded cove in the Bahamas or Ibiza to stop and feel the firmness of land, before continuing to navigate the world. To make this dream a reality, first you need to find a vessel that combines modernity, luxury, comfort and style. There may be a number of yachts that meet your expectations, but once you discover this one, chances are you will not be able to think of any other.

The new Ferretti 960 is the largest planing pleasure boat ever built by the Italian firm, Ferretti Yachts. Manufactured entirely at their shipyard in Cattolica (Italy), the magnificent vessel is the result of a collaboration between Studio Zuccon International Projects, AYT (Advanced Yacht Technology) and the team of architects and designers of the Centro Stile Ferrettigroup. The new vessel maintains the hull design and waterlines of its predecessor, Ferretti’s former flagship yacht, Ferretti 881, one of the most successful models ever to be produced by the Italian brand.

One of the highlights of the Ferretti 960 is that with 98 feet overall length, and 78 feet hull length, it was designed as a pleasure yacht, which does not require a professional captain to sail. The Italian yacht-manufacturer will only produce this model in a single version, with a raised helm station, which allows a more complete distribution of all the spaces.

A total of 10 guests may travel on board with ample space to enjoy a very special holiday. In fact, the total area of the main deck is the largest in its category. It feels like you are navigating inside a five star hotel.

This yacht features a cabin suite on the main deck at the bow. A large double bed is the center of this fabulous space, which also has a bathroom with shower and toilet in separate areas. Additionally the yacht has four double guest cabins on the lower deck, all with private bathrooms and equally sized, although the two in front have twin beds that can be converted into double beds. There are three cabins for the crew with capacity for five occupants and direct access to the kitchen, a solution that ensures the owner´s privacy, which is usually found in more expensive yachts.

The interior of the main deck is accessed through electrically-operated glass doors. The space is divided into two distinct areas: living room and formal dinning room. The former consists of a large U shaped sofa around a low table, bar with ice machine and a small shelf for storing bottles. The latter has a rectangular dining table with capacity for 12 guests. The design of these areas perfectly reflects the style of the entire ship. The oak wood with walnut details, high quality leather and small metal accents create simple, modern lines, injected with natural light that filters through the glass walls and panoramic views. Ferretti Group will offer this yacht with four different interiors. The objective is to meet with the needs and preferences of the different international markets where it will be sold.

Amenities on board abound. Ferretti 960 takes care of all the details so you can relax and enjoy the voyage. The outstanding aft area was designed for easy storage and effective launching of the tender, without compromising the traditional functions associated with this part of the boat. There is also an enclosed space that can accommodate a 14-foot recreational vessel. The door of this compartment has been lined with quilted cushions and make an attractive sundeck.

The fly bridge stands out for its size and the options it offers. The second command, equipped with an electrically adjustable captain’s chair is located in this area. Behind it, there is a large a U shaped sofa with two separate tables that can be attached, and nearby a bar space with two cabinets for the fridge, sink and grill. If enjoying the surrounding scenery isn´t pleasurable enough for the guests, the fly bridge is outfitted with a whirlpool, protected by a secure roof with a central opening.

Ferretti 960 can be equipped with three different sets of MTU engines. The standard version has two 16V 2000 M84 and 2.218 hp, allowing the yacht to reach top speeds of 27,5 knots and a cruising speed of 24 knots. The other options are two 16V 2435 M93, or two 16V 2638 M94 engines. The first option delivers a maximum speed of 29 knots and a cruising speed of 25; and the second and most powerful, gives the yacht a maximum speed of 31 knots, and a cruising speed of 27 knots. ■