Azimut Seadeck 6: New series is lighter, more efficient and more sustainable

With the new Seadeck series, Azimut is taking a big step towards sustainability. They have developed concepts, construction materials and hybrid technology for an environmentally friendly approach to nature. To achieve this and reduce CO2 emissions, the weight of the test boat has been kept low, the hull has been given a particularly efficient shape and energy management has been optimised.

The weight reduction is based on a carbon fibre construction. For example, the deckhouse, roof, bathing platform and large parts of the main deck are made from this material. Some of the internal structures are also made from a special construction material. The shipyard uses R-PET, which is made from around 15,000 recycled plastic bottles. The standard carpeting below deck is also made from this material. There is also a special floor covering on deck. No teak was laid here, but MarineCork from Sace Components.

Energy balance on the Azimut test boat

The so-called "Mild Hybrid Zero Emission Hotel Mode" ensures a good energy balance on the test boat. To achieve this, an additional generator is installed on one of the engines and lithium batteries (42 kWh), inverters and solar cells are installed. The on-board diesel generator is not required during the journey; instead, the air conditioning and stabiliser are powered by the above-mentioned system (for up to eight hours). According to the shipyard, the batteries can supply the entire yacht with power for between four (during the day) and eight (at night) hours, depending on the weather conditions.

The test boat is moored in the harbour of Fano, and even from a distance I like the lines for which Alberto Mancini is responsible. He collaborated with interior designers Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez on the development.

Layout of the azimuth from the new series

I enter the boat from the stern via the gangway and from there I go onto the bathing platform. Even the first steps without shoes on the new surface structure feel good. The cockpit is accessed via the side access next to the huge cushion unit, which offers a variety of uses. Practical: the bathing platform. It can be raised and lowered at the touch of a button, as can the steps that provide easy access to the lowered platform. A bathing ladder can be hooked onto the latter. Back to the cockpit: a folding table is attached to the large lounger at the front and a bench seat in front of it. The necessary shade is provided by the extension of the saloon roof, from which a sun canopy can be extended to cover the remaining aft area. To complete the so-called Fun Island, the side walls can be lowered, which are bordered with poles and lines towards the water. But that's not all: there is also a huge seat/lounger unit on the foredeck, which invites you to sunbathe and linger.

The route from the cockpit to the saloon leads through a glass door. Next to the entrance is the galley, which is fully equipped with a sink, induction hob, oven, dishwasher, ice maker, refrigerator and plenty of storage space. Anyone standing in the saloon and looking aft into the cockpit can do so through a large rear window. The highlight: this window can be lowered completely at the touch of a button and, together with the open entrance door, connects the cockpit with the saloon - creating a huge, airy space. The large windows and sunroof create a pleasant ambience in the saloon, allowing plenty of daylight into the stylishly designed space. A well-upholstered seating area with table ensures comfortable living. The stairs to the cabins are located further forward on the port side. The VIP cabin is located in the bow and is equipped with a double berth. It offers plenty of space, storage space and access to the wet room. The latter is also accessible from the vestibule for people from the second guest cabin (two single berths). The owner's cabin extends across the entire width of the boat and is located amidships. The large double bed is not positioned lengthways to the direction of travel, but crossways, and the designers have positioned a comfortable sofa opposite. Further aft is a wet room with plenty of space and a stylish interior.

Manoeuvres with the test boat

The saloon contains not only the galley and seating unit, but also the driving position. Two sports seats provide good support for the co-driver and driver, with their feet resting on folding steps. The steering, bow thruster, gearstick and joystick can be operated without restriction. The view of the monitors is flawless, as is the view through the large windscreen (with two windscreen wipers). Harbour manoeuvres are easiest with the joystick system, which can also be used for slow sailing.

At sea, we switch to the Volvo Pentas gearstick and push the levers forwards quickly. During the acceleration phase, the foresight remains good both sitting and standing. We calculate a cruising speed of around 25 knots during our test drive, consumption is then 8.4 l/sm and the result is a range of 243 nautical miles plus 15% reserve. The noise level in these situations is only 66 dB(A) (rear window and door closed). At full throttle at 3700 rpm, the noise level does not exceed 71 dB(A) and we reach a speed of 32 knots. When cornering at high speed, the hull turns safely and enters its own wave smoothly.

The engine compartment with the three Volvo Penta IPS drives is easily accessible via a hatch in the cockpit floor, and a ladder makes it easier to climb up and down. A maximum measured engine compartment temperature of around 28 degrees shows that the ventilation works well. The same rating was given to all the installations: The technicians laid all the lines firmly and clearly, and two filter cartridges are installed per engine. The fire extinguishing system and the entire boat processing also deserve praise.

Technical data

• CE category: B
• Length over everything: 17,5 m
• Width: 5,05 m
• Displacement (fully loaded): 27,6 t
• Sleeping places: 6 + 1
• Refuelling: 2400 m
• Water tank: 590 l
• Possible motorisation: 3 x Volvo Penta IPS 500 or 3 x Volvo Penta IPS 650
• Test motorisation: 3 x Volvo Penta IPS 650 353 kW (480 hp)
• Price: from € 2 201 500
• Further information: azimutyachts.com

Measurement results

Conclusion

The Azimut Seadeck 6 is a yacht for which the shipyard places great emphasis on sustainability. It offers comfortable lounging and seating options below deck and in the outdoor area. The joystick system allows the test boat to be moored and unmoored safely and precisely.

Advantages

• + Good and safe driving characteristics
• + The installations are carefully executed
• + Chic, bright interior