With the 580 Contessa, FIM is entering a new market segment. The shipyard in Cividate al Piano, near Bergamo, has previously focused mainly on building open sports boats in the Regina range. The new Contessa line now introduces a flybridge to the range for the first time. FIM developed the exterior design in collaboration with Studio Design aLot. The flybridge blends seamlessly into the silhouette without disrupting the sporty lines. According to the shipyard, the hull shape is designed to combine comfort with manoeuvrability.
Outdoor areas with versatile zones
The stern of the 580 Contessa opens out onto the bathing platform via side terraces. These can be folded out to create a spacious sunbathing area directly above the water. At the bow, the sunbathing area can be converted into a seating area in just a few simple steps. This flexibility is already familiar from the Regina range, where FIM employs similar designs. The flybridge offers a second helm station and additional seating. From there, you have an elevated view over the water, which helps when mooring in tight harbours.
A seamless interior with no steps
Studio Nerocardinale was responsible for the interior design. The side windows in the saloon can be opened electrically. Together with the door to the cockpit, this creates a continuous, barrier-free space between the interior and exterior. The roof above the saloon has adjustable slats that allow light and air to enter in controlled amounts. The kitchen unit runs from the saloon right through to the cockpit. The floor is at the same level throughout; there are no steps between the different areas. This design makes it easier to move about on board and makes the spaces feel more spacious.
Three cabins plus crew quarters
Below deck there are three guest cabins and a separate crew cabin. The owner’s cabin is located in the bow and occupies the widest part of the hull. Large windows let daylight into the room. The shipyard describes the design as being suited to longer cruises, where one spends several days on board. The crew cabin, which has a double bed, allows for the employment of crew, which enhances comfort on trips lasting several days.
Further models and outlook
Alongside the 580 Contessa, FIM is showcasing the 500 Regina and 440 Regina in Cannes. These two models reflect the shipyard’s previous focus on open-top sports boats. At the same time, the shipyard is revealing the first details of the 400 Contessa Coupé, which is due to be launched in spring 2027. This model is being billed as a compact coupé with a layout that is unusual for its size class. Furthermore, FIM has recently established a tender division which will develop tender boats. Founder Corrado Piccinelli sees the new Contessa range as an important step towards the shipyard’s international expansion.
Technical specifications:
- Length: 17.68 metres
- Type: Sport Fly Yacht
- Cabins: 3 guest cabins plus 1 crew cabin
- Special features: Electrically operated side windows, fold-out rear terraces, louvred roof in the saloon, continuous deck floor
- Exterior design: FIM in collaboration with Design aLot
- Interior design: Studio Nerocardinale
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology
