Yacht Class n°40 (March-April-May 2025)

Azimut – Benetti Group

Sailing on electric power alone, that is what Azimut’s shipyard offered us to discover the world premiere of the Seadeck 7 “hybrid”, a flybridge with an exterior design, which is sure to catch the eye. Her name is no coincidence, as her stern “gives” itself to the sea. Another strong point that makes this unit truly dedicated to family cruising is her habitability.

Written : Alain Brousse – Photos : DR

In March 2023, the President of Azimut-Benetti Group, Giovanna Vitelli, announced the launch of a new range called Seadeck, looking to the future with respect for the environment as its main theme. Clearly, the propulsion system that most closely complies with anti-pollution requirements is the hybrid, i.e. combustion engines, in this case Volvo Penta IPS diesels, with parallel electric motors. The former are chosen for their performance and range, while the latter are chosen for their silent, vibration-free and, above all, pollution-free cruising, as stated in capital letters, with a reduction in speed as a concession, needless to say.

In anti-pollution mode

When we took the gangway of the Seadeck 7, our declared aim was to get to the sunbridge control station as quickly as possible and entrust our outing to the only electric engines, two Danfoss, each 160 kW, named after the Danish engine manufacturer that recently celebrated its 90th birthday. Let’s start with the manoeuvring sequence, facilitated by a precious piece of equipment: a joystick that controls both diesels and electrics. So it was in exemplary silence and with impeccable precision that we set sail and left the harbour, heading for a Mediterranean that was, if not calm, at least slightly dishevelled by a light westerly wind. So it is with respect for the environment that we trace our wake. No noise, no vibration, no exhaust fumes, but a maximum speed of 11 knots and above all a range of just three hours at 8 knots, or 24 miles. Just like a hybrid car, if you use the accelerators to exceed 11 knots, it is the thermals’ turn to come into action instead of the electrics. The Seadeck 7 becomes ambitious: 28 knots at full throttle and, at 16 knots, she can cover 283 miles. If, with the electric motors, the battery level is low, there is a solution: trigger one of the thermals, which then acts as a generator-charger. It should be noted that the rear of the sunbridge is fitted with solar panels to provide energy for the accommodation. Otherwise, the battery pack can be recharged at the port.

A stern for dream anchorages

As we climb aboard the Seadeck 7, our eyes inevitably linger on the size and layout of her stern, one of the assets that will make anchorages highly appreciated moments of relaxation. The teak-covered bathing platform measures 10 m² and doubles as a berth for a 4.50 metre-long tender. From either side, a staircase leads to another lounging area, which can be extended by lowering part of the bulwarks. At its centre is a solarium. The solarium backs onto the cockpit bench, which houses the traditional outside saloon (6 places), protected by the stern of the sunbrigde. At the front of the main deck, still outside, the deckhouse has a sunbathing area. Back to the cockpit to discover the interior fittings. The bay window at the entrance opens fully, giving a sea view of almost 200 degrees, thanks to the side glazing. As standard, there is a comfortable saloon, which could easily be transformed into a dining area, especially as the galley unit has been placed forward on the port side. On the same level, to starboard, is the wheelhouse, with its two armchairs, from which the “captain” enjoys a very satisfactory view. The Seadeck 7 also has a second helm station, outside, on the 14 m² sunbridge, which also has a U-shaped bench seat that can be used as a sunbathing area.

Five cabins on the lower deck

The lower deck of Seadeck 7 (50 m²) houses all the cabins, five in all, one of which, at bow level, is reserved for the crew (two bunks and a toilet area). The owner’s suite (20 m²) occupies the entire beam and its king-size bed faces the port side, which has rectangular windows and a bench just below. It offers a bathroom with separate shower and restroom, as well as a dressing room. Adjacent, to port, is a guest cabin measuring just 8 m², with a 5 m² “children’s” cabin opposite. This unit has a 12 m² VIP cabin, located forward, with its own bathroom and storage space for clothes. With the creation of this brand, Azimut has every intention of continuing its development. After the Seadeck 6 (see Yacht Class 38 in the News section) and the 7, a future model 9 is planned with the same designers: Alberto Mancini (exterior design) and Matteo Thun & Antonio Rodriguez (interior design).